Manhunt Newcastle 2026 - Heat 2

Manhunt Newcastle 2026 returns to the harbour on Saturday 26 September, with Heat 2 of the competition taking place aboard the MV Calmer. It's the second of three dates in the series, which runs from Heat 1 on 22 August through to the Grand Final on 24 October.

Billed as 'The Ultimate Ladies Night Out', the competition sees Newcastle men compete for a spot in the Grand Final and a share of a A$3,500 cash prize pool: A$2,000 for the winner, A$1,000 for second, and A$500 for third. It's explicitly not a modelling competition, and the organisers welcome men from all walks of life — tradies, business owners, firefighters, teachers, nurses, chefs, students, fitness professionals and entrepreneurs. The judging looks at personality, confidence, charisma and stage presence rather than a specific look.

The night is set as a harbour cruise aboard the MV Calmer, a three-level superyacht with plenty of indoor and outdoor space, including an open-air sky deck. The boat is run by All Event Cruises, who specialise in on-water experiences ranging from private weddings and corporate functions to themed party cruises and dining nights with chef-prepared food and fully licensed bars. The cruise includes live entertainment alongside the competition.

Heat 2 runs from 8:00pm to 11:00pm, with check-in starting from 7:30pm. The boat departs from the Queens Wharf Ferry Terminal on Wharf Road in Newcastle, NSW 2300. Tickets start from A$0.00.