Planning in early 1997 for the opening of The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre, the Board of Directors of the newly formed entity formally noted that their collective aim was for the “establishment of programmes, facilities, and management practices….which as a totality would contribute to the expansion of the intellectual and social skills of students and staff of the University through participation in physical and other activities under the aegis of The Forum."

The mantra of “Mens Sana in Corpore Sano” translated to mean “a healthy mind in a healthy body” was the inspiration that gave the Directors further belief “that the healthy lifestyle espoused in The Forum would be an example to and available for the Newcastle community."

Twenty years on, and by any measure, it can be seen that these aims have been achieved many times over and while the facilities and services provided at The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre are designed around participation opportunities for the University community, the centre has always been accessible to all.

The Forum is the preferred training venue for elite teams, having hosted a number of elite Olympic, Commonwealth Games &

World University Games teams and competitors. As well as teams such as the Australian Rugby League and Rugby Union teams, Newcastle Jets, Newcastle Knights, Sydney Swans and Geelong AFL teams along with a wide range of state and local teams and competitors. The Forum is also proud to have assisted in hosting a range of events including the Eastern University Games, National Indigenous University Games, International Children’s Games and the Asia Pacific Special Olympics.

The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre has a number of unique roles including the enhancement of the student experience on the Callaghan campus as well as supporting health and wellbeing of the broader Newcastle and Hunter community.

Newcastle University Sport (NUsport), is proudly associated with the University of Newcastle and manages The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre on the Callaghan Campus and The Forum Health & Wellness Centre in the Newcastle CBD.