Hey Ben,
Theres a "newcastle thread" up in the stickied section - could try posting in there?
Events wise - there are quite a few show and shines around, nearest tracks would be sydney, although not too sure if they still have the 18th mile there.
RT? umm....I'll let the locals answer that, I've heard a mixed bag!
The commuting between the two - say 30mins not even on a good run?
Have to drive though, or bus it.
workshops, I think RX Enginerring is up that way, Iveheard good stuff bout them.
Anyhoo, Im sure some of the newie locals will reply with more detail