{
  "id": 11110351,
  "title": "From tattoos to blue sausages, Newcastle has gone 'Knights crazy'",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/from-tattoos-to-blue-sausages-newcastle-has-gone-knights-crazy",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-01T04:41:11.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-01/blue-sausages-to-knights-tattoos-newcastle-nrl-grand-final/107211500"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Newcastle residents are gearing up for the NRL grand final with a variety of fan-inspired activities. Tattoo shops have been swamped with customers seeking Knights-themed ink, with one artist canceling all appointments to accommodate footy enthusiasts. Lifelong supporter Sam Mawer plans to have a tattoo crafted on his calf to cherish the memories of the grand final. Armidale man Dave Battese even got a tattoo during a live radio broadcast to secure tickets for his last grand final appearance in 2001. Businesses in Newcastle have joined the celebration, with a butcher creating a blue sausage and ice cream shops offering blue-and-red treats. The city's support for the Knights is evident, with homes and businesses painted in the team's colors. The Knights' 1997 win remains a cherished memory for many, as evidenced by Cliff Parker's role as the team's mascot and the enduring popularity of Sir Rusty.",
  "summary": "Newcastle fans are going all out in preparation for the Knights' first grand final appearance in 25 years this Sunday against the Sydney Roosters.",
  "key_points": [
    "Tattoo shops flooded with Knights-themed requests",
    "Dave Battese got tattoo during live radio broadcast",
    "Businesses painted in Knights' colors for grand final"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The surge in Knights-themed activities and merchandise in Newcastle reflects the city's deep-seated enthusiasm for the team and its enduring impact on local culture and identity.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ABC News",
        "title": "From tattoos to blue sausages, Newcastle has gone 'Knights crazy'",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/from-tattoos-to-blue-sausages-newcastle-has-gone-knights-crazy-11115865",
        "published": "2026-10-01T04:41:11.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}