The prolific women of Wangi Library Knitting Group have made and donated their 1000th woollen beanie for international seafarers in port at Newcastle.

The beanies are distributed through the Anglican Church's Mission to Seafarers organisation.

The Reverend Garry Dodd accepted the milestone donation at the library on Wednesday.

"To receive a gift that's meaningful, and valuable, that's been handmade is unique," he said.

"This is altruism at its best. And the guys cherish them."

As the senior chaplain to the Port of Newcastle, Reverend Dodd has spent time at sea with the seafarers.

"I spent three weeks on a bulk carrier and I froze. So I can tell you from first-hand experience that these beanies are gifts that are changing lives around the world."

Reverend Dodd said the port plays host to more than 50,000 seafarers a year, many of whom are poverty stricken.

Knitting group founder Chris Langshaw said the 1000 beanies represent many hours of work for the group's 28 women over the past 18 months.

"I want to thank the many people who have donated wool to us. And we've started on the next 1000 beanies, so donations are always welcome."

■ Phone Ms Langshaw on 4975 5205.