South Coaster Autumn 2020

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ISSUE NO. 16

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Like a phoenix Top 3 places to see the great bushland revival

thesouthcoaster.com.au

Sharing local knowledge

THE AUTUMN

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Cover: Bushland revival at Wingello, by Chris Duczynski, visit www.malibumedia.com.au

Autumn Calendar FROM MARCH 21: 40th Anniversary Show An iconic Stanwell Park gallery is celebrating an amazing 40 years in business! See pages 4 & 5.

Articles Fine Art Gallery, (02) 4294 2491.

APRIL 3-5: Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival Austinmer/Thirroul Lions Club hosts its annual celebration of coastal life, kicking off on Friday night with a grand art exhibition opening.

See page 28. www.thirroulfestival.com APRIL 11-25: The Ulladulla Phoenix Festival Organised by the Rotary Club of MiltonUlladulla, the Phoenix Festival will feature a series of events across the Bawley/ Ulladulla/ Milton/ Conjola areas during the Easter school holidays. Festival highlights include the Big Day In concert launch on Saturday, April 11 and the Blessing of the Fleet Festival (Easter Sunday, April 12). It aims to boost the local economy after the Currowan fire devastated the Shoalhaven community. “Our regional community has been profoundly traumatised,” the Rotary Club says.

“There is a long road to recovery.” Do your bit: turn up, spend up and have a great time!

MAY 2 & 3: Wings Over Illawarra Aviation extravaganza at Illawarra Regional Airport in Albion Park features an air display with classic and vintage aircraft, warbirds, RAAF assets, and a family fun carnival. www.wingsoverillawarra.com.au

MAY 16: Comic Gong 10am-4pm. Wollongong’s pop culture festival celebrates a love of comics, graphic novels, gaming and cosplay. At Wollongong Central Library, Town Hall, Art Gallery and Arts Precinct.

Check out @comicgong on Facebook.

ILLAWARRA WOODWORK SCHOOL WORKSHOPS Learn how to carve a Netzuke, a Japanese sculptural object (April 24-26), make a greenwood stool (May 9 & 10) and carve a spoon (June 27 & 28). Book soon!

Inquiries to sdmontague62@gmail.com Book at woodworkschool.com/workshops

WOLLONGONG COMEDY Check out the great line-up at the Gong’s longest running comedy room, hidden in the basement of The Builders Club: Cassie Workman + MC Amanda Gray (March 14); Cam Knight + MC Alex White (March 28); Julia Wilson + MC Christian Elderfield + Supports (April 11).

Visit wollongongcomedy.com.au/events

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south coaster THE AUTUMN

CONTACT: editor@thesouthcoaster.com.au; phone 0432 612 168; PO Box 248, Helensburgh, 2508.

PUBLISHER: The Word Bureau (ABN 31 692 723 477), DISCLAIMER: All content and images copyright South Coaster unless otherwise supplied. No part may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission.

Views expressed do not reflect those of the publishers.

Maps not to scale; info checked at time of publication.

Meet our Contributors CHRIS DUCZYNSKI is an award-winning photographer and filmmaker, the owner of Malibumedia and a Bulli local. Chris travelled to Wingello in the Southern Highlands to take the South Coaster’s cover image.

DUNCAN LEADBITTER is a director of fisheries and natural resource consulting company, Fish Matter; a Visiting Fellow at the Australian Centre for Ocean Resources and Security at the University of Wollongong. A keen scuba diver, snorkeller, spearfisherman and photographer, Duncan has lived in Stanwell Park for 20 years.

CAROL GIBBS is a resident of Shellharbour Village.

After 15 years working interstate and overseas, she and her husband chose to retire in the small coastal suburb where they raised their family. She loves any opportunity to promote her town.

JUSTIN WALKER is one of Australia’s most well-respected 4WD / adventure-travel photojournalists.

He has travelled much of the world but he spent the bulk of his childhood on NSW’s south coast and loves the lifestyle here. Justin is the editor of Australian Geographic Adventure magazine.

Happy 40th!

Articles art gallery owners John and Frances Vander are celebrating four decades in business at Stanwell Park with an exhibition launching on Saturday, March 21.

John and Frances Vander met at a bar in Sydney’s Kings Cross, a respectable watering hole run by the American Army in the days of the Vietnam war. Belgian emigrant John – who had served in the Belgian Air Force special forces and travelled to Australia in his 20s in search of adventure as a crop-dusting pilot – passed the evening playing noughts and crosses with a British woman.

She won.

The pair later got married and started a family (their daughter, Katrine, a jewellery designer who runs a Cronulla gallery, will bring her Precious Fusion designs to Articles’ 40th birthday celebrations). In 1980, John and Frances seized an opportunity to start their own business on the South Coast. John left his role as a Bankstown bank manager (“At one stage I used to decorate all the offices at Citicorp. I decorated all the associated businesses with my paintings.”). And so Articles Fine Art Gallery was born, occupying a historic site that, over the years, has also hosted a boarding house,

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supermarket and bottle shop.

John said: “The first Christmas people were queuing like 20m out the door. And we said: ‘Whoa, what have we done here? It looks like it’s going to be successful’ …”

It was. The couple would travel for a month, then John would paint for a month. In the 1980s, fine art print distributors Art Nouveau picked up his work.

“It went berserk and now we’ve sold about three million prints. I’ve had exhibitions all around Australia … travelled all around Australia.”

Their home behind the gallery is packed with paintings, collectors’ items and historical memorabilia. John shared a decades old unnamed newspaper clipping describing Stanwell Park as “the gateway to the Illawarra”, adding “a stop here would be incomplete without a look at Articles Art Gallery”. Another old clipping, titled “Painting the Spirit of our Country”, read: “John’s paintings blend impressionism and realism with an accent on the change of the season and the celebration

Photos: supplied, Anthony Warry

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Then and now: John and Frances Vander are celebrating an incredible 40 years in business.

ENTERTAINMENT BY “FIDDLE DANCE BAND” John and Frances Vander invite you and your friends to celebrate their milestone.

One of John’s paintings will be drawn at the end of the day. Entry forms available at the gallery.

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40TH

ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION

to celebrate aviation pioneer Lawrence Hargrave and revitalise local business, which floundered when the road south was closed during construction of the Sea Cliff Bridge.

Thanks to four decades of mixing talent, travel and hard work, Articles, however, continues to thrive. John and Frances have a loyal following of customers, who’ve all been invited to their 40th Anniversary Exhibition launch, starting at noon on Saturday, March 21.

The palm trees John and Frances planted long ago now soar above the start of the Grand Pacific Walk and give their name to a neighbouring cafe. The gallery remains an iconic stop for tourists from all over the world.

And on every wedding anniversary, John gives Frances a noughts and crosses game – her collection now includes games in every medium, from pottery to silver.

The South Coaster believes she still wins.

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of light and texture… His work is varied and interesting, often immortalising the pioneer spirit of Australia with street scenes and country homesteads”.

John aims to distill the character, history and beauty of a place to capture its essence on canvas. “Before I paint a town I paint every, or nearly every, house, every shop, individually.

“Also I try to meet the people in the town – who lives there, who used to live there, what is the history of the place? Then I do an overall painting, a larger painting of the whole town.

By that stage I will know every nook and cranny.

You should see my library of research – when you travel in those villages, they’ve got a local historical society, right? And they released a book which only six people bought – well, I am one of the six.”

Forty years later, the couple are still “living the dream”. Over the years Articles has exhibited the work of many fine Australian artists, including Max Mannix. John’s own work has won many accolades (including the Opera House Art Award and a fellowship from the Australian Institute of History and Arts), and has been held in private and public collections around the world, from the Master Builders Association to the First National Bank of New York.

John and Frances have also played an active role in the local community, being Engadine Rotary Club members, founder members of the Northern Illawarra Chamber of Commerce and the tourism board (now Destination Wollongong). The couple were also among the organisers of the first Festival of Flight, launched

Articles is at 111 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Stanwell Park. Call 02 4294 2491, or visit www.johnvander.com.au

SATURDAY, 21 MARCH 2020 FROM NOON ON THE COURTYARD: • A demonstration at the wheel by Shire potter Therese Haussener.

• A demonstration by cartoonist Paul Dorin.

• A “pop-up” stall of jewellery

by Precious Fusion.

IN THE GALLERIES: • Australian original humorous works by our featured cartoonist Paul Dorin.

• Quirky pots by our featured potter Therese Haussener.

• Recent paintings by Shire artist Nicole Southworth.

• Decorative pots from Victoria by Klei Pottery.

• Popular “Sunrise” paintings by noted artist David Brayshaw.

• Handmade “Birds of Australia” Paperweights from the Songbird Collection.

• The art of resident artist John Vander.

• Collection of works by our regular exhibiting artists.

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DA R K E S G

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Hello, Julie!

Discover the next big thing in apples – it’s a beauty!

Jo Fahey reports from Darkes Glenbernie Orchard.

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Pink Lady Apples and Granny Smith are looking great for picking throughout April.

Book ‘Pick Your Own’ tours at www.darkes.com.au

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after Bill’s wife ‘Julie’ and we like the family connection here too!

This year we will be running a small number of ‘pick your own’ groups in the Julie apples.

Our pick-your-own customers last season described the Julie apple as having subtle flavours of strawberry, pear, nashi and pineapple.

You’ve probably heard of Granny Smith? This is a well-known chance seedling founded in the Sydney region, originating in Ryde in 1868.

We think Julie could be the next big thing!

Last year we sold out pretty quick, so if you want to try a Julie you’d better visit us early in March for the best chance not to miss out!

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More than 25 years ago, Bill Shields, the owner of Shields Orchard at Bilpin, found a chance seedling on his farm that he is now propagating in Australia and overseas.

Since 2013, the ‘Julie’ variety has been trialled in 19 Australian commercial orchards (Darkes Glenbernie Orchard is one of those) and also overseas in Italy.

A chance seedling is a genetically unique plant that is the product of unintentional breeding. It’s a rare thing to get a viable crop from a chance seedling to sell to market.

We saw this as an opportunity to grow a variety that was both unique and very local. We wanted to work with Bill as soon as we could.

Our Julie trees are now around five years old.

These sensational apples are named

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Method • Preheat your oven to 200°C. Grease a sixhole Texas muffin pan (makes large size muffins).

Sift flour, bicarb, spices & brown sugar into a large bowl. Stir in the cooked apples, then the milk and butter, until just combined. Spoon the mixture into muffin pan holes.

• Peel, core and halve the small apple then slice each half thinly. Place apple slices on top of each muffin then brush with extra butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

• Bake the muffins for about 25 minutes.

Leave the muffins in the pan for 5 minutes before turning top-side up onto a wire rack.

Serve warm or cooled.

ORCHARD FAQS This past year has been quite challenging for anyone in agriculture. Here’s a couple of answers to common questions we are fielding at the moment.

Did the drought affect your fruit?

Our fruit this season has been incredibly tasty, juicy and big in size because of our growing

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Ingredients 2 cups self-raising flour ½tsp bicarbonate of soda ½ tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp ground nutmeg 1 pinch ground cloves ¼ cup brown sugar 200g cooked apples 1 egg, lightly beaten ¾ cup milk 60g butter melted 1 small apple 20g butter, extra melted 2 tbsp cinnamon sugar

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APPLE SPICE MUFFINS To celebrate our apple harvest, here’s an easy recipe by Dennis Limbert, The Caravan Cook.

strategies. Glenn (our fabulous farmer) has been working on water-saving technologies and pruning and thinning programs that have really made the difference. In an orchard, dry and sunny weather is a good thing but you still need water. We are extremely thankful for the generosity of our neighbours, the Laws family.

They loaned us water from their dams at a critical point in time that has helped us get through to the recent rain.

Did the bushfires affect you?

Thankfully the fires have not been in this area.

We have been stocking blueberries from Clyde River Berry Farm (near Ulladulla and Batemans Bay) whose visitor numbers are well down. We love Clyde River blueberries. They are the best you can buy and much tastier than from other locations. Buying them from us helps that farm.

VISIT THE DARKES FAMILY FARM Book ‘Pick Your Own’ tours on weekends and in school holidays at www.darkes.com.au Or shop at the AppleShack, open daily, 10am4.30pm, at Glenbernie Orchard, 259 Darkes Forest Road, Darkes Forest, (02) 4294 3421.

AUTUMN IN THE ORCHARD Autumn is apple picking time and stone fruit trees will begin to lose their leaves. Late autumn can be a really lovely time for photography sessions and wedding shoots. We begin to plan and prepare the ground for new tree plantings. The apples lose their leaves after harvest is complete during May to June. We start practising recipes for mulled cider and apple cider vinegar tonic to ward off winter colds.

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What to do at the zoo Helensburgh’s Symbio Wildlife Park offers animal fun for everyone.

Step 1: Pick up a Symbio Wildlife Park map in reception.

Step 2: Make your toughest decision of the day: What to do first? Meet the animals, explore the Adventure Playground or discover the Splash Park?

Symbio’s Splash Park is one of the Illawarra’s coolest attractions for kids – with water fountains, spray guns, squirters, a giant dump bucket and a snake tunnel.

It also has an amazing Adventure Playground, with flying foxes, swings, spinners and a castle with climbing walls.

Over the past six years, the Helensburgh attraction, owned by the Radnidge family, has transformed from a small park to an innovative zoo, famous for “getting you closer”.

It has won plenty of accolades, including, the Business of the Year (for the second time in three years!) at 2019’s Illawarra Business Awards.

Symbio has also been working on important conservation projects. More than 1000 green and gold bell frog tadpoles – carefully reared in a multitude of tanks behind the scenes – have been released into the wild this year!

In 2019, the zoo celebrated the birth of many new babies, including koala joeys, meerkats, little monkeys, alpacas, wallabies and tawny frogmouths. The most recent

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arrivals are native stingless bees, which are being housed in the Farmyard and can be seen during sustainability tours on weekends and during school holidays.

Stingless bees are Australian native bees and will help pollinate fruit trees in Symbio’s Farmyard area, as well as other native plants at Symbio.

Exciting projects are in the works for 2020. These include new amenities and a new state-of-the-art hospitality facility.

Here are the South Coaster’s top 5 reasons to go to the zoo:

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Enjoy a photo with native critters Buy a bag of animal feed in reception and you’ll have the resident mob of kangaroos eating out of your hand before you can say “Instagram”.

Symbio is also home to many other Aussie favourites, including koalas, blue tongue lizards, freshwater crocs, emus, echidnas and wombats.

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Go to Goatopia!

Goatopia is a new interactive area that lets you get up close with farm animals, hand-feed and pat them.

You will also have the chance to meet the most adorable miniature goats!

One of Symbio’s goals is to provide a connection between animals, people and the environment. This walk-through experience immerses children in a real farm-style environment, off their electronic devices, among the animals. The new area covers 1000 sq/m of turf and includes 200 shrubs and grasses representing the local indigenous flora and more than 100m of new concreted pathways to provide easy accessibility for everyone.

Be sure to hold onto your feedbags – the goats can be a little cheeky and like to steal them! – but they are lots of fun and will be sure to bring a smile to your face.

Photos: Kevin Fallon / Symbio Wildlife Park THE AUTUMN

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Play all day Going to the zoo tomorrow? Yes, you can stay all day, with shady picnic tables, the awesome Adventure Playground and the superduper Splash Park, where kids can cool down with water cannons, while parents pull up a deck chair and relax!

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Marvel at exotic animals Star attractions include the world’s fastest land animal, the cheetah, meerkats, lemurs (those famous film stars from Madagascar!) and golden lion tamarins, named for their stunning ‘manes’. Symbio also offers ‘Behind the Scenes’ experiences with endangered animals, such as red pandas.

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Be a junior zoo keeper Follow in the footsteps of a Symbio keeper – you’ll get to prepare meals and feed animals! Junior Keeper Camps, for ages 7 to 12, are hugely popular in the school holidays, so book ahead.

Symbio is open daily, 9.30am-5pm, 7-11 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Helensburgh. Phone (02) 4294 1244 or visit symbiozoo.com.au.

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One of the many secluded coves in Twofold Bay, Eden.

Return to Eden!

By Justin Walker

Justin Walker is one of Australia’s most experienced and well-respected 4WD experts and adventure-travel specialists. He has travelled much of the world but spent the bulk of his childhood on NSW’s South Coast and absolutely loves the lifestyle. Here Justin lists his top three tips for having fun in and around Eden.

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Twofold Bay Twofold Bay, the third deepest natural harbour in the southern hemisphere, is also one of Australia’s best whale-spotting locations and one of only two feeding grounds for whales migrating north. Plus, killer whales have now returned regularly to Eden. The town has a famous historical link to these marine mammals – see Killers in Eden, the BBC documentary.

Twofold Bay is also a great fishing destination.

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South East Forests National Park and surrounding state forests The mountainous hinterland near Eden is full of excellent campsites, tranquil waterways and tons of wildlife to spot. It is a fantastic mix of national parks and state forests.

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Outdoor activities The region is a natural haven for lovers of the great outdoors. Activities may range from the thoroughly relaxing (think: a gentle bush walk) through to the thrilling (sea kayaking).

Hikers can tackle a plethora of tracks scaled at a variety of difficulty levels, including the Light to Light Track that goes from Boyd Tower in the north of Ben Boyd National Park to Greencape Lighthouse. Note: this hike takes two to three days.

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Above: Camping in a secluded Yambulla State Forest spot near Newtons Crossing, right next to Wallagaraugh River.

Below: A hiker on the Light to Light Track that goes from Boyd Tower in the north of Ben Boyd NP to Greencape Lighthouse.

All photos this spread: Justin Walker

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Wonders at Wingello Photographer Chris Duczynski captured the rebirth of the bush in the Southern Highlands in early March 2020.

After Australia’s terrible Black Summer, these green shoots are powerful symbols of hope.

Photos: Chris Duczynski

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Wingello is in the Southern Highlands of NSW, about 90 minutes from Sydney. The small township is at the edge of Morton National Park and surrounded by dense bushland. On 4 January 2020, a fire destroyed 12 houses and burnt with such intensity that much of the surrounding landscape was totally incinerated.

Ironically, Wingello in the local indigenous language means “to burn”. It has suffered losses before, in 1939 and 1965, and has recovered. This time, no lives were lost and dozens more houses were saved by the heroic efforts of the local firefighters.

Two months later, we drive through town and grab a burger and coffee at the small shop, which also serves as a post office. Burnt-down houses are still taped off, although some blocks have been cleared and levelled.

At the back of the town, it’s still all black and grey, but with the most amazing bursts of green, yellow, orange and red scattered through the tree trunks and canopies. It’s an inspirational moment walking through the blackened bush and looking up and seeing the new growth backlit by a setting sun. New ferns are sprouting from the ash, fighting back and throwing out thin green fronds. We look up and the blue sky is broken up with splashes of colour, like an abstract painting.

Some rosellas fly in and perch on the branches, but no other wildlife is around.

Will the fauna return and in what numbers?

It’s a question no one knows the answer to yet.

One thing for sure is that the transformation is underway, the country is returning. Wingello is on the way back.

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Shoalhaven area Depot Beach in Murramarang National Park, near Batemans Bay, is the best option to see regrowth and regeneration after bushfires, NSW National Parks rangers have said.

You can stay at Pretty Beach or at Depot Beach campground, which is just a few minutes’ stroll from a lovely white sand beach. Both a rock-platform walk and a rainforest walk depart from Depot Beach. Pick up information about the park at the office at Depot Beach campground.

From May to November, the dramatic coastline of Murramarang National Park will also become prime whale-watching ground.

Snapper Point and North Head in Murramarang NP are great places to look for humpbacks on their annual migration from Antarctica.

Go to www.wildaboutwhales.com.au

Photo: John Spencer, DPIE

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Like a phoenix The Australian bush has the magical ability to regenerate after fire, rising like the bird of legend from the ashes. The South Coaster asked NSW National Parks to share their top 3 places to see this amazing regrowth in action.

Illawarra/Southern Highlands The Bundanoon area – the gateway to Morton National Park – is another good place to see regrowth in action.

The historic village of Bundanoon is on the edge of Morton National Park, with accommodation ranging from B&Bs to health resorts. Every April since 1977, Bundanoon has hosted the Brigadoon Highland Gathering, billed as “the “Premier” Scottish Gathering in Australia. Discover your Scottish ancestry, see Highland dancing, dress the kids in tartan, enjoy the haunting sounds of bagpipes and see strong men lift the Bundanoon Stones.

Brigadooon 2020, the 43rd Annual Highland Gathering, is set for Saturday, 4 April 2020.

Go to https://brigadoon.org.au

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Three Views walking track – Morton National Park near Kangaroo Valley This area was burnt, but was expected to be in recovery about autumn time.

At publication time in early March, only Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre, the East and West Rim walking tracks, and the Main Falls lookout were open in Morton National Park, but other areas were expected to open within a few weeks.

The Three Views track is named for its three cliff-edge viewing points – you’ll get to enjoy the outlook over Lake Yarrunga, Tallowa Dam and the Shoalhaven River and gorges. The 9.5km return track follows the Brooks Plateau and Moolatoo Trig fire trails. It’s flat and suitable for all fitness levels.

CHECK FIRST: For the latest advice, please check the National Parks website before you go. Visit https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

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Photos: Hangglide Oz, Anthony Warry Photography, Sydney Hang Gliding Centre

Helensburgh

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Map Key 1 Train station 2 Historic tunnel 3 Tradies club 4 Pool 5 H'burgh Hotel

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6 Post Office 7 Pharmacy 8 Business Park 9 Essential Surf 10 Alcara cafe &

Raya Thai 11 Coal Coast Emporium 12 Helensburgh Massage Therapy

13 Coles 14 Vet, bottle shop & butchery 15 Library 16 Burgh gym

17 Sunrise Nursery 18 Symbio zoo 19 Hindu temple 20 Kellys Falls

By Helensburgh musician Darren Coggan.

My local dream day would start with a coffee at The Cup Bearer [on Parkes Street, Helensburgh], followed by the exhilarating walk that is the Wodi Wodi Track, some of the best views you’ll ever see. A quick dip at Coalcliff pool followed by brunch at Lime Leaf Cafe at Sunrise Nursery, where the epic iced chocolates are divine. Another great option that we often enjoy is grabbing a chicken and salad roll from Tony’s bakery to be enjoyed at the top of Otford lookout, overlooking the ocean and Bulgo village, it’s magnificent and with a bit of luck you’ll spot a few majestic whales migrating, along with the thrilling hang gliders, soaring above Bald Hill. In the afternoon, a walk along Stanwell Park beach is revitalising and a gelato ice-cream from Uluwatu Blue cafe is a must!

Miner Charles Harper discovered coal here in 1884 and the town is thought to have been named after his daughter, Helen (or, some argue, after Helensburgh in Scotland). While the Metropolitan Mine still operates, this historic coal mining town has since transformed into the country residence of Sydney commuters.

Flanked by the gum trees of the Garawarra State Conservation Area and on the southern doorstep of Sydney’s Royal National Park, the ‘Burgh is a great base for bushwalking and mountain biking (check out the tracks behind Rex Jackson Oval). Two popular attractions are Symbio Wildlife Park (see page 8) and Sri Venkateswara Temple, which hosts about 20 festivals each year. September’s Ganesh celebrations are a highlight, a vibrant whirl of colour, music and fragrance as statues are paraded around, accompanied by musicians, priests and chanting crowds. The canteen serves tasty vegetarian food, open 10am-4pm (Sat/Sun and public holidays). Visit www.svtsydney.org.

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Dream day

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Helensburgh

Home to Symbio Wildlife Park and a famous Hindu temple.

BIG BRANDS, UNBEATABLE PRICES, OUTSTANDING SERVICE

SUMMER Phone: 4294 8973 Mobile: 0420 764 668 177 Old Princes Hwy Helensburgh JOHN INGRAM MVRL 54398

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Stanwell Park

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Map Key 1 Bald Hill 2 Off-leash area 3 CWA Hall, home to local Arts Theatre

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4 Beach Reserve 5 Massage centre next to bottle shop 6 Pizza place &

Loaf cafe 7 Uluwatu Blue 8 Surf Club 9 Hargrave Cafe 10 Articles Fine

Art Gallery 11 Boho Chic & Boho Emporium 12 Palms Cafe 13 Train station

14 Wodi Wodi Walking Track, a steep and slippery 6.5km challenge.

Gaze south from Bald Hill and you’ll see Stanwell Park, the first seaside village on the NSW South Coast. It’s also the start of the Grand Pacific Walk, with a new boardwalk and concrete path hugging the coast south to Coalcliff.

The village is famous as the former home of 19th-century aviation pioneer Lawrence Hargrave, whose experiments with box kites were instrumental in the development of human flight. It’s still a popular recreational flight spot – hang gliders take off from Bald Hill

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Go walking, shopping or cafe hopping. Or take flight!

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Stanwell Park

to enjoy panoramic views along the coast before swooping down to land at the beach.

Stanwell Park was once the abode of a gang of bush rangers, led by arch villain ‘Wolloo Jack’. Today the village is a more peaceful spot, home to a creative community. It gets busy on weekends when families, surfers, dog walkers and fishermen come out to play.

Look out for the colourful umbrellas of Uluwatu Blue cafe, where you’ll find everything from açai bowls to homestyle Mexican to Indonesian dishes. Plus bikinis, sarongs and other gorgeous beach gear!

Next to an avenue of palm trees, in a sunny courtyard with escarpment views, the Palms Cafe is a superb spot for a leisurely meal. Here you can also visit Articles Fine Art Gallery, and meet painter John Vander.

Popular with both flocks of cockatoos and kids, the Beachside Reserve has a big playground with swings, climbing frames and a scooter track. There are barbecue areas and lawns for picnicking or impromptu cricket. The Pantry serves meals and takeaways.

Bush walkers can take on the 6.5km Wodi Wodi track or climb Mt Mitchell and then do the 11km Forest Walk to Sublime Point.

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Coledale

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Map Key 1 Coledale Hospital 2 Mike Dwyer Reserve 3 Coledale Camping Reserve

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4 Coledale Surf Life Saving Club 5 Coledale Public School 6 Planet Childcare Centre 7 Rock Pool

8 Coledale Fine Wines 9 Mr & Mrs Smith cafe 10 Coledale RSL Club, with My Little Brasserie

11 Earth Walker & Co. General Store & Cafe 12 The Salon 13 MDK Hair 14 Sharky’s Fish & Chips

15 Homewares 16 Coledale Train Station 17 St James Park and Playground 18 Sharkeys (off-leash) Beach

Our family starts the morning with a tasty breakfast at Mr & Mrs Smith, a cafe with sunny outdoor tables. We then take a leisurely walk, following the Lawrence Hargrave Drive footpath north to the beautiful Comradeship sculpture, in honour of community activist Mike Dwyer.

This reserve has one of the best views in Coledale and is perfect for a picnic. We head back down south and at Coledale Beach take to the sand to walk along the foreshore. At low tide, you can stroll along the rock shelf in front of

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Lara McCabe shares her dream day in the seaside village.

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Coledale

Coledale Surf Club and south to the ocean pool.

We debate whether it’s warm enough for a swim and the kids win the argument, preferring to keep walking south to Sharkeys Beach, popular with dog walkers and surfers.

Leaving the kids to build sandcastles and frolic with local dogs out for a run, I make my escape to The Salon for a little pampering.

The family catch up and we take a turn at the oval onto Cliff Street, then up to the playground for more playtime.

Tummies are rumbling, again! Lunch options include the Coledale RSL Club (which has a new chef and international menu at My Little Brasserie), Sharky’s (for take-away fish and chips) and Earth Walker & Co (a cafe and general store where the focus is on local, organic and sustainable produce). You could also drive two minutes north to a beloved local haunt, the Wombarra Bowlo, for fabulous Thai/Oz food and fun on the green. Or simply enjoy a DIY barbecue courtesy of Coledale beach facilities We spend the afternoon at the beach, looking for creatures in rock pools. There’s talk of one day trying fishing or snorkelling, and I am yet to do a yoga class at the Surf Club or Community Centre. So much to do! Want to stay longer?

Pitch a tent at Coledale Camping Reserve and wake up to sunrise over the sea.

Play Barefoot bowls

stop, relax and enjoy

Enjoy the Best Thai/Oz on the South Coast BISTRO: Tues-Thurs lunch & dinner, Fri-Sun 12 till late

Wombarra Bowlo 578 Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Wombarra

(02) 4267 2139

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Austinmer

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Map Key 1 Playground 2 Tennis court 3 Headlands 4 Little Austi 5 Glastonbury Gardens

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6 Bells Point 7 Playground 8 Surf Club 9 Amenities 10 Rock pools 11 Sublime Point

Track starts 12 Ibah Spa 13 Train station 14 Vet 15 Mala Beads 16 Florist/gifts

17 Petrol station 18 Shell’s Diner 19 Austi Beach Cafe 20 Newsagency & post office

21 Scout Hall 22 Moore St General 23 Haveli Living 24 Omni eatery 25 Yoga studio

“Austinmer...I’m glad I’m here. there’s nowhere else I’d rather be” sings local band, the Glamma Rays. It’s a breezy, gorgeous tune which truly gets this charming beachside village between the escarpment and the sea.

Here are some suggestions to make the most of your visit. Start with a morning bushwalk up to Sublime Point. It is a steep climb up the stairs and ladders but the view from the top is worth it. Reward yourself with a coffee at Sublime Point Cafe! The track from the bottom starts near Foothills Road and Buttenshaw Drive

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This holiday hot spot is famous for its pools, writes Cath Hill.

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Austinmer

(1.4 kilometres return).

If you need relaxation and a foot scrub after your walk, try Ibah Spa Austinmer or, if this is booked out, nearby sister spa, Ibah Spa Thirroul.

After walking and unwinding, stretch out an Iyengar yoga class in the Moore Street Yoga Room. Wander down Moore Street and grab a coffee from Moore Street General. You’ll find delightful shops nearby including Haveli Living.

Then on to the star attraction, Austinmer beach with its twin ocean pools and a big rock pool, which is perfect for young kids and their parents to loll around in and explore.

Take a moment to turn your back on the water and take in the breathtaking escarpment views too. Boards outside the old dressing sheds are updated on weekdays with the water temperature and a trivia question. If the kids need a change of scene, there’s a gated playground there too.

After all that virtuous exercise, tuck into some takeaway fish and chips from 50s-themed Shell’s Diner (with a beer garden out back) or try Austi Beach Cafe with views of the waves.

If you’ve forgotten anything, Austinmer Beach newsagent sells lots of useful bits and pieces.

Drink in a perfect Austinmer day with a cocktail at Headlands Hotel.

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3rd Generation Woodworker

Call: Stuart Montague

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11. Wombarra Bowlo.

10. Shellpod sculpture at Sharkeys, an off-leash dog beach.

9. Sea Cliff Bridge.

8. Coalcliff.

7. Stanwell Park village, starting point for Grand Pacific Walk.

6. Bald Hill scenic lookout & hanggliding launch pad.

5. Road to Royal National Park.

4. Kelly’s Falls.

3. Tradies Helensburgh.

2. Sri Venkateswara Hindu Temple.

1. Symbio Wildlife Park.

Take a beautiful drive from bush to beach.

Do the loop

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Project based classes beginners to advanced

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21. Maddens Falls, Dharawal National Park.

20. Darkes Glenbernie Orchard.

19. Boomerang Public Golf Course.

18. Turn-off to Sublime Point Lookout & Cafe.

17. Southern Gateway Visitor Information Centre Bulli Tops.

16. Thirroul village.

15. Sublime Point walking track starts.

14. Austinmer Beach, with twin rock pools.

13. Coledale Beach, with oceanfront campsites.

12. Coledale village, cafes and general store.

11. Wombarra Bowlo.

Sharkeys, an off-leash dog beach.

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Top Spot

Thirroul

ink Eat, dr op and sh

Map Key 1 Beach Pavilion 2 Pool 3 Playground 4 Thirroul Collective

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5 Crust Pizza 6 IGA 7 Horizon Bank 8 Boutiques 9 Post Office

10 Anita’s Theatre 11 DP Surfboards & Collins Books 12 See Side Optical

13 Op shop 14 Coles 15 Ibah spa 16 Egg & Dart 17 Church

18 Byrne Surf 19 Newsagency 20 Cocoon 21 Food co-op 22 Library

There’s a buzz in Thirroul. Possibly because this seaside shopping village is home to about a dozen cafes, serving some of the finest coffee on the coast. Thirroul is also a good place to dine out – try the pizza at Ryan’s Hotel, seafood at South Sailor, sushi at Toro Sushiya or spicy delights at Shahi Aroma Indian Cuisine.

Fancy a cocktail? Go to Jose Jones.

In search of true relaxation? Check into Ibah Spa for a fabulous treatment, or visit Ibah’s beauty studio in the Anita’s Theatre building.

If you’re looking for a local night out,

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This popular town is known for its unique boutiques.

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Thirroul

see what’s on at iconic Anita’s Theatre. Built in 1912, the art deco theatre is a beautiful venue.

On Raymond Road, Franks Wild Years often hosts live music on Sunday afternoons (check its website for a list of upcoming gigs).

Lovers of organic goodness – and anyone fighting the war on waste – should stop by the Flame Tree Food Co-op for sustainable, organic and local produce, plus household items.

Other reasons to linger in Thirroul include eclectic boutiques and homewares stores such as Cocoon, a veritable cavern of collectables.

Book lovers will enjoy a browse at Collins Booksellers Thirroul – ask about upcoming author talks, plus Easter School Holiday Events.

Art gallery The Egg & Dart often has exhibitions by local artists. Vintage treasure hunters will enjoy Thirroul Antique Centre, the new Vinnies op shop and Retro Wombat.

Surfers should check out Byrne Surf and DP Boardroom – run by local board shapers, Parrish Byrne and Dylan Perese.

Head to Thirroul Beach to explore a beautiful stretch of sand, a free salt-water pool and a playground with a flying fox. And, of course, a cafe, serving coffee by the sea.

Save the date: April 3-5 is the annual Seaside & Arts Festival, see page 28 for more.

For authentic primitive pieces, original artwork, furniture, rugs, lighting, gifts, games and more

Shop 2, 357 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Thirroul 2515 Monday to Friday 9.30 – 5.30 Saturday 9.30 – 4.30 Sunday 9.30 – 3.30

02 4267 1335

www.cocoontrading.com.au

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Festival fun!

2020 is the festival’s 30th anniversary. Since it began in 1993, $1.2m has been donated to locals and organisations in need. The South Coaster reports.

A project of the Austinmer-Thirroul Lions Club, the Seaside and Arts Festival is the event of the year in Thirroul. Each April, this huge celebration of the arts, food and fun attracts about 20,000 visitors to the little beachside town. It’s so big it requires a DA, road closures and big water-filled barriers that the local fireys help fill up.

It’s all run by volunteers. And each year money raised goes back to the community.

You’ve got to love it!

Howard Whitesmith, president of AustinmerThirroul Lions Club, kindly told us more.

What’s happening on April 3, the Friday night?

The opening night is the big event, it’s pretty cool because it brings the art community in.

What’s on over the weekend?

On the Saturday we’ve organised stalls all through the town, music, dance, community school performances. And we run a big barbecue. This year we’re going to ask the Rural Fire Service to come round, participate and have collection buckets for them on the Saturday.

On the Saturday you have local performers on King Street. Lots of mums and dads and grandparents come and watch their kids on the stage. We put artificial grass up that road to give it a park feel. Then on the Sunday everything moves down to the beach and the park. And we have food stalls and music.

Sunday is a really good day. All the kids get down there and they’ve got the fun fair rides

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and they can pet the animals, ride ponies. The festival is a really fun day out for the family.

The Lions barbecue on Saturday: how many sausages is that going to involve?

Oh, we must get rid of 30, 40 kilos of sausages.

We get them locally, the providore usually gets them from the butchers up in the arcade. IGA support us tremendously with onions and drinks at cost; they do a great job supporting us.

What’s your fundraising goal?

This year it’s drought and bushfire relief. We also support the local Sea Cliff schools, all the primary schools and Bulli High. Through them we’re going to run a remedial swimming program.

Favourite part of the festival?

I like the arts side of it because I’m a bit of a woodcarver. I just like the atmosphere – it brings people together, gives the Lions an opportunity to gather a lot of money and redistribute it. And it’s a great fun weekend.

Thirroul Seaside & Arts Festival, April 3-5. Tickets $20 via Eventbrite.com.au for the Friday night art show launch at Thirroul Community Centre. Visit www.thirroulfestival.com.

Lions (from left to right): Bob Ascoli, Howard Whitesmith, Tony Davis, Ken Murray, Brian Manahan, Brad Adams and Robert Groat.

Small local businesses in one retail shop!

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271-273 LAWRENCE HARGRAVE DRIVE, THIRROUL

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Thirroul Collective

0499 977 993

www.thirroulcollective.com.au GOOD READS:

Camping Around Australia • AFN Fishing Guide to South of Sydney • The Memory Pool by Therese Spruhan • Richo by Terry Richardson (local surfing legend) • Best Bush, Coast & Village Walks of The Illawarra

COLLINS BOOKSELLERS THIRROUL Locally Owned & Operated

Books for everyone Stationery & Gifts Educational Toys & Games Gift vouchers available Under Anita’s Theatre, King Street, Thirroul 4267 1408 | Open 7 days LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

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Escape to the country!

By Lara McCabe We love Jamberoo, it feels like what a country village should be. There’s a local pub, markets at the oval, boutiques, an antiques store plus the odd rose show and vintage car display.

The markets are on the last Sunday of the month and there are amazing places to stay, such as the historic home Terragong.

Nearby Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is great fun for families. We haven’t tried

Map & photos by Lara McCabe

Kiama & Jamberoo

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Jamberoo & Kiama

the zipline (our youngest is too small), but the canopy walks have stunning views. In summer, stop in at Jamberoo Action Park, 15 minutes away via Jamberoo Road, which winds through green farm hills into the town of Kiama.

Kiama is a mix of historic buildings, charming boutiques and natural wonders. The scenic 22km Kiama Coast Walk – best done in leisurely sections – takes in the volcanic formations at Cathedral Rocks, basalt columns at Bombo Headland, and two blowholes.

Near the historic Lighthouse and visitors centre, Kiama Blowhole is an amazing spectacle that can shoot sea spray 20m into the air.

I enjoy a wander past the historic Terrace Houses on Collins St (built for quarry workers in 1886), then into the back lane to visit Wildflower Studio, a beautiful florist and giftware shop, and on to Indigo Rose homewares.

Kiama has great markets: the Makers and Growers’ on the fourth Saturday of the month, Seaside Markets on the third Sunday, Farmers’ Markets every Wednesday, and Art in the Park on the second Sunday at Hindmarsh Park. We always stop in at the Old Fire Station Community arts centre too.

Final tip: Flour Water Salt (49 Shoalhaven St) is a feast for eyes and tastebuds!

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Go rock pooling

Shellharbour

Photo: Chris Duczynski, www.malibumedia.com.au

I wake to find my partner has already left for his day of fishing on the Charter Boat. I sip my brewed coffee as I watch the sun creep above the horizon from the comfort of Cowries Harbourside, our home for a few days. The view of the ocean and Cowries Island tempts me to explore, so, towel in hand, I wander down to the historic village harbour and along the walkway to the ocean pool.

After a refreshing swim, I stroll up the street

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Carol Gibbs shares her dream day.

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Shellharbour

for a tasty Avo Smash at Village Fix and, noticing Arabella Day Spa across the road, decide a spa treatment will be perfect for the afternoon.

As I head to the village boutiques for a new frock to wear to dinner, I pass the historic Country Kitchen and the Roo Theatre.

Multiple shopping bags later from Harbour Rose, Sway Clothing and Cas & Co, it is time for a healthy “Aloha” lunch at Nourished Poke Bowls before my spa.

Absolutely pampered after my spa, I wander up the hill past several more historic buildings, stopping at SOUL Brow and Makeup Studio for a quick reshape. I can’t resist the rich aroma of coffee drifting from the Bean Roasted Café and then it is time to head back to relax before cocktails and dinner at Relish on Addison.

Over dinner we agree the next day’s itinerary will be Killalea State Park, The Farm and Bass Point before dinner at MJ’s. We also book an introductory session with Shellharbour Scuba to explore the underwater beauty and save the date for the Shellharbour Surf and Skate Festival, on from 7–15 December 2019.

Backyard Zoology blogger Amanda De George shares five secrets of the (not so) deep.

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Common Sydney Octopus: The masters of camouflage can change not only the colour of their body but also the shape! The Sydney octopus is the most common in this region. The undersides of its tentacles are bright orange – often this is the first part of the animal you’ll see.

Nudibranchs: These are soft-bodied, shell-less molluscs that come in an incredible range of colours and body shapes.

They may be found by looking around the edges of rock pools or by carefully lifting up (and putting back) rocks.

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Bubble Snails: These have an elaborate, frilled mantle and a delicate, paper-thin shell they can’t retreat into. Look out for their egg masses, laid as long, white ribbons in the algae over summer.

Sea Stars: Eleven-Armed Sea Stars can reproduce by splitting themselves down the middle and making two sea stars! Carpet Sea Stars contain myriad colours and patterns, not unlike a Turkish carpet. Often found in pools feeding on mussels.

Sea Anemones: Named after the anemone flower, it’s easy to forget that sea anemones are actually animals, and carnivores at that. They consist of a foot that sticks to the rock, a column body and a mouth on top of this that is surrounded by tentacles – tentacles that are armed with stinging cells. If a critter such as a fish gets too close, those tentacles fire a harpoon-like thread into the prey. This contains a neurotoxin that quickly paralyses the prey while the tentacles bring it to the mouth – and dinner is served!

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Cityk

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brea

Wollongong

ea From s ps to sho

2 3

23 4 22

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6

25 24

12

16 17 18

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13 15 14

19 11 20

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Map Key 1 Stuart Park, with Skydive Wollongong, playground and Lagoon restaurant 2 Diggies Cafe 3 North Wollongong Beach 4 Novotel Wollongong Northbeach 5 Continental Pool 6 Levendi at Beach

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Cove, Belmore Basin 7 Wollongong Breakwater Lighthouse 8 Wollongong Head Lighthouse 9 Wollongong Beach 10 Wollongong Golf Club 11 WIN Stadium 12 Boutique

13 Wollongong Visitor Information Centre.

14 Illawarra Performing Arts Centre 15 Wollongong Art Gallery 16 Crown St Mall 17 Kurtosh 18 Holey Moley Putt Putt

19 The Little Prince 20 MacCabe Park 21 Wollongong Library 22 Wollongong Botanic Garden 23 University of Wollongong 24 Blue Mile Pathway 25 Builders Club, 61 Church St, home of Wollongong Comedy

Wollongong Lara McCabe enjoys harbour views, shops and sweet treats.

Our family day out in Wollongong starts with coffee at the institution that is Levendi, watching the kids in the public playground while enjoying views of the harbour, fishing trawlers and seagulls looking for scraps.

From here, you could stroll along the Blue Mile coastal path to North Beach (patrolled year round). Or explore the coast via pedal power – Wollongong to Bulli is a mostly flat and scenic ride of about 10km. The Novotel rents bikes or South Coast BikeUPCOMING Hire offersSHOWS a mobile service – SEE ALL they bring bicycles to you. We choose a leisurely WOLLONGONGCOMEDY.COM.AU walk up Flagstaff Hill to the lighthouse. @GONGCOMEDY Then we move on into town proper, where our kids delight in going to Holey Moley putt-putt.

For lunch, we pop to David Jones Food Court, which has something for everyone. For sweets, we escape to cave-like Kurtosh, the patisserie in Globe Lane. If, like me, you’re a brewed chai latte snob, Kurtosh is a highlight!

On a Friday, you’ll find fresh produce, arts and crafts at the Foragers markets in lower Crown Street Mall (9am-2pm). Wollongong Central is home to big brands, from Anaconda to H&M. After retail therapy, we decide a little culture is needed and stroll to Wollongong Art Gallery.

We end our afternoon at a playground in MacCabe Park (no relation!). It’d be nice to carry on to date-night drinks at one of the Gong’s great small bars, like Little Prince, Howlin’ Wolf, Humber or Breakout Bar. And on the second and last Saturday of each month, there’s funny stuff going on in the basement at The Builders Club, thanks to Wollongong Comedy. Next time!

A note for nature lovers: do squeeze in a visit to Wollongong Botanic Garden. Its lovely lawns at the foot of Mt Keira are a great place to picnic.

Bring a bag of peas to feed the ducks!

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Playground at Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Photo: Lara McCabe

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Two experienced Illawarra hang gliding instructors share the joy of flight at Bald Hill.

'Like surfing the sky'

‘Like being a bird’

How did you get into hang gliding?

I played rugby league for Wests, Canterbury, Cronulla and the Steelers before a knee injury ended my career in the 1980s. I was always an avid surfer, however, after perforating my ear drum I needed to find another sport. I had watched hang-glider pilots flying at Bald Hill … It was like surfing the sky. So I decided to buy a hang glider and went through the process of teaching myself how to fly. In those days hang gliding schools did not exist.

“Wow, it’s just like being a bird!”

“It’s just like live Google Maps.”

These are the comments I get from my passengers when taking them hang gliding from Bald Hill for the first time.

I have been fortunate enough to be part of the furniture on Bald Hill since the late 70s.

One thing that hasn’t changed much is that iconic view to the south, where the mountains meet the sea. The view is now punctuated by the Sea Cliff Bridge that meanders along the escarpment and is one you never tire of. The only view better than this is the one from the air.

I am amazed at how many people who have flown with me tell of their family ritual of regular visits to Bald Hill to enjoy an ice-cream and watch the hang gliders. So, it is a real privilege to be able to take their experience to the next level.

Bald Hill is one of the world’s best and most famous hang gliding and paragliding sites in the world. So, what makes Bald Hill so great? Well, as I mentioned, the spectacular view, ice-cream at the top and at the bottom, and the ability to fly distances both up and down the coast.

The dynamics of Bald Hill make it ideal for effortless soaring as the smooth marine air is deflected upward by the escarpment. The longest flight from here was by a local pilot who landed 200km away just short of Lake George.

The cool southerly changes are not lasting as long and being replaced by humid northerlies.

But we are hoping for a good season.

There is no better time to fly.

Q&A with Tony Armstrong, HangglideOz

What do you love about it?

The freedom, serenity, and no one can drop in on you! The feeling of pure flight is truly exhilarating.

Biggest challenges about the sport?

The weather, without a doubt.

What makes great hang gliding weather?

Optimal conditions for hang gliding at Stanwell Park are South East winds at around 15 knots.

No rain!

Strangest thing that’s happened on a flight?

Bird strikes, a few marriage proposals, which all ended successfully. There have been a few people in compromising positions on beaches and in bushland, thinking no one is flying above.

I had one magical experience with a whitebellied sea eagle who hitched a ride during one of my tandem flights at Bald Hill.

30-minute tandem flights from $260. Visit www.hangglideoz.com. au or call 0417 939 200.

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Photos: Hangglide Oz, Anthony Warry Photography, Sydney Hang Gliding Centre

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Air time!

By Chris Boyce, Sydney Hang Gliding Centre

Call 0400 258 258, visit hanggliding. com.au. Tandem flights from $260, gift vouchers available.

Photos: Hangglide Oz, Anthony Warry Photography, Sydney Hang Gliding Centre

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Lead the way Trot along and discover three great walks for you and your dog, writes Philip Comans, of Bark Busters Illawarra & Southern Highlands.

One of the reasons we love the Illawarra is our largely unspoiled natural environment and the outdoor lifestyle this encourages. Owning a dog also encourages outdoor activity and provides a great excuse for getting outside and off the couch. So, over the summer, pop a lead on Rover or Bella, grab the kids (and poo bags for the dog!) and explore new walks nearby.

Here are my top 3 dog-friendly walks, plus where to grab a snack or drink en route. All are dog-friendly cafes, but do remember to keep your dog on its lead and always respect that other diners may not love your dog as much as you do.

Well-loved, well-behaved and well-trained: that’s what makes for happy pets when out in public.

Stanwell Park to Clifton, 9km return Now that the long-anticipated pedestrian path has opened, a truly spectacular walk is yours to enjoy.

Start with breakfast at the Palms Cafe, Hargraves Cafe, Loaf Kitchen or Uluwatu Blue in Stanwell Park then head south. Parts of the new walk are cantilevered ocean side and offer superb ocean, escarpment and beach views.

Continue over Sea Cliff Bridge and stop again for a coffee at the Scarborough Hotel if you walk that far (5.8km).

Otherwise turn back at the historic 1911 Clifton School of Arts for a 9km round trip. Allow two hours for a leisurely pace.

Philip Comans runs Bark Busters Illawarra & Southern Highlands, phone 1800 067 710.

McCauleys Beach to Sandon Point, 1.4km one way One of our favourite walks. Start at Corbett Avenue, Thirroul and descend onto leash-free McCauleys Beach. Frolic off-leash in the shore break and on the sand as you stroll south, ending your playtime at Sandon Point. Sit and watch the expert surfers off the Point. Make it a round trip by walking up off the beach and promenading with your pooch (on-leash) back to your car, following the footpath past multimillion dollar homes. Allow 20 minutes if you’re on a mission, or up to an hour if you take your time.

Headlands Hotel to Coledale, 1.3km one way After a cold beer, strong coffee or even a meal, head north, sticking to the ocean-front to walk along leash-free Sharkeys Beach. This is a truly beautiful reef beach, popular with surfers but not lifeguard patrolled. The views north are among the best in the Illawarra. Keep walking north and soon you’ll be in quaint Coledale where a great coffee, cake or meal can be enjoyed at Earth Walker cafe, or across the road at Mr & Mrs Smith. This is 1.3km one-way and an easy walk. Allow half an hour, although you could do this walk in 20 minutes.

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Backyard Zoology

By Amanda De George

Follow Amanda’s Facebook blog @BackyardZoology

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Above: Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog Below: Swamp Wallaby.

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It is estimated that more than one billion animals died during the recent Australian bush fires.

That figure is beyond heart breaking and I know personally I couldn’t watch any of the footage as it streamed endlessly throughout the day and into the night, as it filled my newsfeed and screamed out from every newspaper as I skulked past trying not to look.

But rest assured there is life still out there, from the big to the small. It is moving back into the burnt zones and is thriving in areas that have received lots of delicious rain over the last few months. As Dr Ian Malcolm says in Jurassic Park, “Life finds a way”!

Swamp Wallabies are gorgeous little macropods which can be found down the entire coast. They don’t tend to congregate in groups like the ever present Eastern Grey Kangaroo but they are so sweet looking, they’re worth taking the effort to find one. They love thick underbrush so you’re most likely to spot one of these wallabies if you’re on a bush walk and they’re especially active at night when they love to feed on shrubs so you might also get lucky if you’re keen on a bit of spotlighting.

Keep your eyes to the sky and your ears alert for an eerie wailing cry and you may just come across one of my favourite birds, the YellowTailed Black Cockatoo. These are large cockatoos with a breathtaking yellow and black tail and distinctive yellow cheek patches. You can see them flying slowly, their long tails giving them a very recognisable shape, in groups of two or three birds. They love to feast on banksia pods and pine cones and often that will be the first sign of them, bits of chewed seeds and bark raining down on you from on high! The threatened Glossy Black Cockatoo with their incredible red and black barred tails can also be spotted around the Shoalhaven and the Southern Highlands and, after the loss of over 75 percent of their habitat during the Kangaroo Island fires, they are more important than ever.

Now if you like your wildlife small, be prepared to peer into ferns, banana trees, around ponds and creeks and down onto the long leaves of bromeliads and lilies for the seriously small (around 2.5cm as adults) Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog. These frogs occur naturally down to around Ulladulla but have been transported accidentally via fruit boxes to Victoria where there are now a few little populations! See, life does indeed find a way!

It has been a long, devastating summer but there is hope, regrowth and life to found if you just go out and start looking.

Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo.

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Hello fish!

With Duncan Leadbitter

Australian salmon and (inset) the dolphins who prey on them. Photos by Duncan Leadbitter

Stanwell Park This issue, we visit my home port of Stanwell Park where I have spent many years snorkelling and spearfishing at both the northern and southern ends. This article focuses on the northern end.

Park your car in the northern car park at Stanwell Park Beach. The entry area is at the northern end of the beach and involves getting through the surf,so make sure it’s a relatively calm day.

Two things to watch for are the boulders at the northern end (so make sure you get in and out only where there is sand) and the channel that runs towards the headland. Depending on the size of the waves and the state of the tide this channel can have quite a strong current.

The first part of the snorkel is in a shallow (1m deep) boulder field where you may see small bream, black drummer and luderick.

Growing on the rocks is the lime green seaweed, Caulerpa.

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To the north, around the small islet the water gets deeper (3-4m) and you will see rock cale, sweep, mado and maybe the occasional blue groper.

The northern headland is called ‘The Pinnacles’ and is defined by a rock wall. About 20m or so away (south) from the wall are a couple of reefs that rise up to about 5m from the surface and are worth a look. On some of the boulders and reef you can see cunjevoi and in some areas the beautiful red jewel anemones.

In early summer as the water warms up schools of small sandy sprats and yellowtail can be found in the shallows. They are preyed upon Australian salmon, which migrate along the coast in large schools on their annual spawning run.

In turn, these are preyed upon by dolphins and, at times, seals.

The whole food chain comes alive over the summer and I’ve been visited by seals while snorkelling (see the video) but not yet by dolphins.

Watch Duncan’s film of this adventure, including footage of a large school of Australian salmon – and their predators. Visit https://youtu. be/UD3fjHoMCH8

Bass Point, near Shellharbour, has a number of great snorkelling and scuba diving sites accessible from the shore. The ‘Gravel Loader’ wharf takes blue metal (crushed igneous rock) from the mine on the western end of Bass Point and transfers it to vessels to transfer to Sydney, where it is used in concrete. It is an interesting place to snorkel and dive and I did my first scuba dive there after getting my certification in 1981.

Entry and exit is easy. The best place is from the old boat-launching ramp on the eastern side – see the marked-up video “2508GravelLoader YouTube”. It is also possible to jump in the water on the shoreward end of the loader.

From the boat ramp, it’s fairly shallow (2-3m) for the swim out to the central part of the loader. Marine life is attracted to the pylons and the shelter they provide and it’s possible to see large schools of old wives hanging motionless, waiting for small fish to feed on. Depending on the time of year, there may be large schools of yellowtail and one-spot pullers, both of which are plankton feeders.

In late summer, yellowtail kingfish often hang around the seaward end, waiting to prey on the yellowtail. The depth of the water at the seaward end is about 12 to 13m, so unless it’s very clear it may not be possible to see the bottom. Living on the pylons is a variety of marine life, such as jewel anemones, hydroids and sea squirts, which look like bagpipes.

The snorkel out and back crosses an area of relatively barren habitat dominated by sea urchins. This habitat is common on NSW

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Gravel Loader

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reefs between about 2m and 13m. The urchins dominate such that very few other organisms can grow, including kelps, which provide good habitat for fish. Basically anything that settles on the rock to grow is eaten by urchins.

There are theories the urchin barrens are caused by overfishing of the urchin’s predators, which include Port Jackson sharks, blue groper and spiny lobsters. But none of these species are now overfished, although spiny lobsters were for decades, and blue groper were heavily fished many years ago. Either urchin barrens are a long-term legacy of that overfishing and may slowly change back, or they are quite natural.

Look out for a great book on the ecology of southern Australia’s rocky reefs called Under Southern Seas. It was published 20 years ago; edited by local resident Professor Neil Andrew.

On YouTube: watch the marked-up video ‘2508GravelLoaderYouTube’

SNORKELLING TIPS There’s no substitute for common sense.

It pays to watch the entry/exit spot for 10 minutes or so to see how it performs as the wave height varies. Conditions may change as the tide comes in or out, or if the wind changes. Look for alternative exit points.

1. Avoid sloping rocks as the waves will wash up and down, taking you with them and possibly rubbing you over a field of sharp barnacles.

2. Vertical drops into the water are good because the waves will simply rise and fall against the face but make sure that if the tide drops the wall is not too high to get out. Ledges potentially make it easier.

3. Bide your time. Watch how and where the water moves before going in.

4. Wear a wetsuit and gloves even if the water is warm. It’s protection against rocks, barnacles, sea urchins and other critters.

5. Tell someone where you are going.

Images by Duncan Leadbitter

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Left: An Australian native dung beetle, Onthophagus pentacanthus.

Photo: Max Beatson, Australian Museum.

Below: Matthewsius illawarrensis, a 5mm flightless dung beetle found in Illawarra rainforests.

Photo: Mike Burleigh, Australian Museum.

Beetling About

With entomologist Dr Chris Reid, of the Australian Museum.

This issue: A Dirty Story.

This season’s story is about poo, so you might want to wait until you’ve finished your food before reading on.

Poo is a consolidated lump of nicely predigested nutrient that gets dumped in the environment. It’s a freebie, so it isn’t wasted – plenty of insects tuck into it.

Flies love it – bacterial soup for the adults to slurp up (where did that fly come from that just landed on your salad?) and a nice wet home for their legless maggots. But flies only dominate poo in winter. In summer there’s one particular group that specialises in feeding on poo and that’s the dung beetles, known in the trade as dungies.

Unlike flies, dungies don’t just passively sit in the poo – they bury it in the soil so that nobody else gets at it. And in that buried lump they lay an egg, so the larva is safely tucked away with a ready meal on hand.

In Australia the famous dung beetles are the ones brought from Europe, Africa and America by CSIRO to bury cow poo. By the 1960s the outback was being overwhelmed by the stuff because it wasn’t of interest to our native dungies. 28 million cows producing 10 poos per day. The smell of cow was too foreign (remember that hoofed animals are not

40

native here), so cow poo just accumulated and bushflies bred in it too.

Overall the newbies have done the trick, and we have gained 25 exotics in the Australian fauna. Unfortunately, the success of that project and associated publicity has led to a common misconception that there are no native species.

And what of the recalcitrant Australians? They are much more interesting. There are many native dungies, about 550 species, and most of them love poo too, just not cow.

In general the natives are nocturnal and live in either forest or open woodland, with the forest favouring species in eucalypt forest (which burns) or rainforest (which doesn’t).

The open woodland species tend to be widespread and are all fully winged. In the dry outback they have to be quick – once the poo dries out they can’t make use of it. So some species have short-cutted this problem and evolved pincer-like claws for gripping fur.

They hang on to the hairs around the backsides of roos and wait for ... But that’s probably enough detail.

In contrast, many of the rainforest species are flightless and confined to these dark and damp worlds.

So what is the relevance of these fascinating animals to fire and drought? (I hear you say).

Well, very few insects can be accurately surveyed. Butterflies don’t like bad weather, bees fly to tree tops, ants are too numerous.

But stick a poo in a trap and all the local dungies will flock to it. It only takes one night.

So dung beetles, with their faithful adherence to particular habitats, make the ideal group for monitoring the effects of drought and fire on insects.

Which is hopefully what I’ll be doing fairly soon.

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Scenic: Cycle from Thirroul to Woonona and enjoy views like this one, from Sandon Point towards Bulli.

Cycling in the city Daniel Dunstan is a Senior Traffic Engineer at Wollongong City Council. He shares his favourite rides and safe cycling tips.

My partner, Sophie, and I ride on weekends and start off from Stuart Park, Wollongong to ride to Fairy Meadow or Towradgi Pool for a swim and then cycle back. As an adult learning to ride, Sophie takes regular short trips to build up skill levels and confidence. I also recommend riding and exercising early in the day, there are a lot more people out and about enjoying themselves.

My favourite rides include:

1

Thirroul beach to Nicholson Park, Woonona Start at Thirroul, have some lunch or breakfast along the way and a play at the park at Woonona, and then cycle back to Thirroul for a swim to cool off.

2

Stuart Park to Towradgi Pool, via Squires way, or via Puckeys Estate if you are looking for a more leisurely ride.

Start at either end depending on where you want to cool off. I would recommend a walk through Puckeys as it’s a great example of littoral rainforest rehabilitation.

3

Kanahooka Park, Kanahooka, to Tallawarra Power station Starting midway at Lakeside Reserve, ride to Tallawarra Point and then Kanahooka Point to get in touch with the lake foreshore, particularly our coastal swamps. This ride touches a part of the Wollongong City that not many people visit.

If you’re keen on a long, mostly off-road cycling experience that is a full day including stops, I would suggest riding to your nearest train station and catching the train from there to Thirroul Station, ride over along the back roads to Thirroul SLSC, and ride all the way down the coastal cycleway until you feel too tired, and get on the next station home.

You can ride all the way to Kiama train station on the shared path and quiet back-streets.

You can also break up this ride over multiple days or weekends and explore the different pools, parks and lookouts along the way.

Stick to the coastline cycleway routes!

RIDE SAFE Last year Council sought community feedback from cyclists and non-cyclists, to review our review our Bike Plan/Cycling Strategy. This consultation will go towards the Wollongong Cycling Strategy 2030, which aims to increase cycling in the city. The draft strategy is expected to go on public exhibition for comment later this year.

Remember when cycling to share the pathway safely: • Keep left. If you need to overtake slower traffic, look before you make a move.

• Use a bell or your voice to let other track users know you’re nearby.

• Give way to pedestrians. If you’re on wheels, slow down and give way to those on foot.

• Don’t block the path. If you need to stop, move off the path.

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Surf At the best spots for beginners.

Surf coach Jim Hughes shares his three favourite Illawarra beaches for beginners.

Swim

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Bulli Beach Probably one of the best learn-to-surf options on NSW’s South Coast. Bulli Beach offers the perfect options for beginners almost 365 days a year. From the sheltered rolling waves of the south end, perfect for youngsters and the more cautious beginner, to the bigger breakers on the north end for the more intrepid beginner … this beach offers the full package to newly enthusiastic surfers!

Bendalong Beach All levels of surfers will find something at Bendalong, where sometimes busy, but highly consistent peaks can offer anything from barrels on NE to SE swells to perfectly gentle learning waves through all tides.

There are great shories and a bunch of other spots around this area too for all abilities, from Washerwoman’s to Manyana.

Broulee Beach North Broulee is the closest beach to Canberra, and considered one of the best learn-to-surf breaks on the South Coast due to its sheltered position and flat sand bottom.

Most days of the year Broulee offers safe waves, perfect for the beginner surfer. Around the corner at South Broulee there is a more challenging beach break suited to intermediate to advanced level surfers. This is a stunning playground well worth a visit!

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3

For more, visit www.learntosurf.com and www.surfingaustralia.com

Laps in amazing ocean pools.

THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S PICKS

By Chris Duczynski, of Malibumedia Austinmer I love this pool from the air and the way it forms a map of Australia when the tide is right.

Coledale No-one but locals know it’s there and it’s never crowded. Hope I haven’t spoilt the magic.

Towradgi Old school, no-frills design set on a beautiful beach looking back on the city of Wollongong.

1 2 3

THE SWIMMER’S PICKS

By Karl Weber, Sea Eels publicity officer Coalcliff Home of Stanwell Park Sea Eels winter swimming club, this incredibly scenic spot is No.1 on Karl’s list of cool pools.

Bulli Pool A classic 50m stretch of pool space. Wellloved and -maintained with the odd sea slug and moss for a bit of furry fun on those tumble turns. Exposed to southerly swell so it gets bumpy when the swell is up. Grown men have been seen getting washed off the edge of the pool when the waves are up. Great cafes nearby.

Bellambi Pool Picturesque views of the northern suburbs coastal plain and pine-crested headlands that jut out into the sea. Love this pool for its relaxed nature and quiet vibe. Next to the bike track and home of the mighty Bellambi Blue Bottles winter swimming club. Pop down to the cafe at Bellambi Surf Club for a coffee and snack.

Wollongong Continental Pool A great complex with excellent views of our northern escarpment and iconic harbour and lighthouses to the south. Wollongong is the only location on Australia’s east coast that has two lighthouses in such close proximity and they are in full view at the Continental. Home of the Wollongong Whales, the Illawarra’s oldest winter swimming club. There is a huge range of eateries nearby.

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2 3

4

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Photos: supplied & Austinmer Pool by Chris Duczynski, www.malibumedia.com.au

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Walk On the wild side.

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Sublime Point Track, Austinmer A steep hike through rainforest and up the Illawarra escarpment, famous for its steel ladders. The reward: stunning views of the Illawarra coast. One-way is 0.7km, about 45 minutes. Add a spooky incentive: look for the Illawarra’s legendary black panther.

Maddens Falls, Dharawal National Park An easy 1.3km, 20-minute return walk. The car park is opposite Darkes Glenbernie Orchard – be sure to stock up on fresh fruit, honey and cider! When the creek is low you can walk over the rocks and check out tadpoles in the rock pools. Darkes Forest is known for its frog diversity.

The Coast Track, Royal National Park The epic 26km Coast Track runs the length of the park, from Bundeena south to Otford Lookout via clifftop paths and wild beaches.

Families can tackle one short section at a time – e.g., a day walk from Wattamolla picnic area to surfing hotspot Garie Beach.

2 3

Run Along the coast.

Try a South Coast parkrun on your holiday.

5km timed run, 8am Saturdays; free, all welcome, sign up at www.parkrun.com.au Shellharbour parkrun At Reflections Killalea Reserve, Killalea Drive, Shell Cove. An incredibly scenic course that takes in a famous surf beach, The Farm, and lovely Killalea Lagoon. It’s on a mixture of grass, sand, dirt vehicle tracks and gravel.

North Wollongong parkrun The course starts at Fairy Meadow surf club then runs parallel to the ocean along a shady bush path in Puckey’s Estate Reserve, across a bridge over Fairy Creek, and around into Stuart Park for a view of the sea. Then back again.

Sandon Point parkrun Known for its fab ocean views, this seaside run starts and ends at Bulli Beach Café (great coffee may be your reward). Play ‘Spot the dolphins’ on the beachside and ‘Which mansion would I buy with my Lotto win?’ on the other.

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2 3

Camp At a travel writer’s top spots.

Bulli resident Brendan Batty is the editor/ publisher of ROAM, Australia’s most successful caravan and camper-trailer magazine. Here are his favourite South Coast camping spots.

Bendalong Point I’ve been coming to this isolated, beachside holiday-town for nearly 20 years and it’s become a fast favourite with the kids, too. The caravan park, which is right out on the point, has a great surf beach to the south (for the grown-ups) and on the north, a sheltered bay where semi-tame stingrays swim past to be hand-fed (for the kids).

It’s where we go when we just want to relax and have a bit of fun.

Murramarang National Park I don’t think I could pinpoint just one part of the park that’s the best, as there are so many great places to camp. If you like it simple, spots like Pretty or Pebbly Beach are stunning, beachside camps among the coastal gums, while any of the caravan parks between Bawley Point and South Durras are absolute beachfront, surrounded by the bush and frequented by kangaroos.

Tathra There are few places with so much fun to be had. The beaches around Tathra have great surf, there’s a wide variety of camping, from worldclass caravan parks to simple national park campgrounds where phone reception is scarce.

In the hills above there are great mountain bike trails, too.

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2

3

Check the latest advice before going bush walking. Visit www.nationalparks.nsw.gov. au or download the app.

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Meet the artist

South African-born painter Jaqueline Burgess is inspired by the beauty of the Illawarra.

FIND JAQUELINE’S WORK: At Towradji’s Sketch Coffee & Art, the Royal National Park Visitor Centre at Audley, www.jaquelineburgess.com

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Woonona artist Jaqueline Burgess paints fresh, modern coastal scenes, often with a playful summery twist – think bright hues and clean lines, colourful cossies and big hats.

Inspired by nature, Jaqueline has also started an abstract series, which she’s enjoying too.

“The Illawarra is my muse, I can’t get over how absolutely stunning this landscape is,” she says, over coffee at Towradgi’s Sketch Coffee & Art. Jaqueline’s mum and dad run the cafe side of this family business, she curates Sketch’s gallery and gift shop. Collectables include her own limited edition prints – on paper, cushions, tea towels or as wearable art (think silk scarves and sarongs). Outside is a mural of a stunning sea lady, her beaded necklace a tribute to the enterprising artist’s African heritage.

Jaqueline grew up in KwaZulu-Natal and, while studying fine arts in Durban, worked as a chalkboard artist for a restaurant chain. “We’d be up on a ladder, drawing these amazing murals and then writing their menu – and that would change monthly. So that was a constant job for us, in between a bit of modelling too.”

At age 19, those chalkboard menus paid for her ticket to London – where she soon picked up more pub board work. “My Mum’s always had that entrepreneurial spirit, so I just grew up with it. And I was desperate to pay rent!” she says, laughing. “Then I decided I wanted to become a children’s illustrator, so I spent months on a portfolio and sent it off to around a hundred publishing houses, and I’ve kept all the rejection letters as proof … It’s still my dream to write and illustrate a kids’ book. It’s going to happen.”

Instead, in 2003 Jaqueline found a full-time job via Gumtree as an assistant teacher at Wetherby School and worked her way up to be head of art. “It’s in Notting Hill – it’s where all the Royals used to go, Prince Harry, Prince William... ” She painted a mural there that won her several private commissions to decorate children’s bedrooms. “It was based on my favourite children’s book, Tatty Ratty, it was of a rabbit on a pirate ship, getting attacked by pirate mice. That was in the art room and it was massive – a great drawcard.”

Wetherby was where she met her Australian husband, Rob, a sports science teacher. The couple returned home to raise their two children in the sunshine. “Having taught there [in the UK] – the kids don’t get outside, they get 20 minutes a day to run around a square. That’s not the life we wanted.”

Which is how they came live in Woonona.

“Woonona is amazing. Any walk to the beach or drive up the northern beaches, it’s stop, quick, take a photo. I can see that on a canvas.”

By Jaqueline Burgess

My dream day would begin having woken after a full uninterrupted eight hours sleep.

Lazy cuddles from my girls, followed by a hot beverage from hubby whilst gazing out at the escarpment in Woonona. With picnic and swimmers packed, it's straight into the car and heading South. Breakfast is a quick stop into Huskisson's Pilgrims cafe, followed by a walk down to the jetty to hopefully catch a glimpse of the resident dolphins that play in the crystalclear bay.

Then it's off to Hyams Beach, our final destination – this is where we hope to see the yellow-tailed black cockatoo as we walk through the coastal shrub to set up home on the white sand for the entire day. We play and laze on the beach until we can't take the heat any longer, then we dive into the freezing water and gaze

Markets

These markets have great vibes, delicious food plus local art & craft.

Nan Tien Health & Wellbeing Market 1st Saturday of the month, 9.30am-2.30pm at Nan Tien institute Plaza (across the bridge from the main Temple), 231 Nolan St, Unanderra.

Coledale Markets 4th Sunday of month, 9am-3pm, Coledale Public School, 699 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Coledale.

Foragers Market Bulli 9am2pm, Bulli Showground, 2nd Sunday of month (pictured).

The Twilight Festival on 22nd December, 5-10pm, is sure to be a big event.

down at the shoals of fish that swim between our legs. We don't watch the clock, or check our phones for updates.

The day belongs to us and we belong on the beach and in the sea until we see the sky turn pink with its dusty summer haze.

We stumble back to the car: tired, sun kissed and gratified. Some sand makes it back to Woonona, where we put the fluorescent white grains in a bottle, so that we can gaze upon its brilliance as a reminder until the day we eagerly return it to the shores from which it came.

Did you know there are 16 white sand beaches in Jervis Bay? Can't find parking at busy Hyams Beach come summer? Read up on the less crowded alternatives at www.shoalhaven.com/ blog/insiders-guide-hyams-beach

Hyams Beach

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Dream Day: Jervis Bay

For more information, visit www.jervisbaytourism.com.au and www.jaquelineburgessart.com

Friday Foragers 9am-2pm, Crown St Mall, Wollongong.

Eat Street Thursdays, 5-9pm.

Crown St Mall, Wollongong.

Puckeys Night Market 4-9pm, last Wed of the month.

UOW Innovation Campus.

Bulli Showground Markets 1st, 3rd & 4th Sundays at Bulli Showground.

Warrawong Markets Saturdays, 7am - 1pm by the Lake, Northcliffe Drive, Warrawong.

Jamberoo Village Markets Last Sun of month, 8am-3pm, Reid Park, cnr Allowrie and Churchill Streets, Jamberoo.

The Farms Market 1st Sunday

Send market listings to editor@thesouthcoaster.com.au.

of month 10am-3pm, Killalea Drive, Killalea State Park.

Kangaroo Valley Farmers Markets 2nd Sunday of the month, 9am-1pm, 165 Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley.

Kiama Farmers’ Market Every Wednesday, summer 3-6pm, Coronation Park, Surf Beach.

Gerringong Village Markets 3rd Saturday of the month, 8.30am-1.30pm, Gerringong Town Hall, Fern St. Berry Produce Market 2nd Saturday + 4th Sunday of month, Andrew Place Park, Berry Note: check social media for market updates.

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Autumn 2020 2020

ORT KEMBLA – NEW SOUTH WALES THE AUTUMN

m

LAT 34° 29’ S LONG 150° 55’ E Port Times and Heights of High and Low Waters FEBRUARY MARCH Time

1.36 0.49 1.64 0.27

SA 1355 2024

1.39 0.54 1.49 0.34

0258 0902 SU 1451 2113

1.43 0.56 1.36 0.40

0354 1019 MO 1601 2208

1.49 0.55 1.26 0.45

0452 1135 TU 1717 2305

1.56 0.49 1.20 0.47

1 0205 0756

2

3 4

Time

m

19 0553 1223

0510 1.68 1143 0.28 MO 1800 1.58

19 0001 0554

0048 0644 TH 1240 1910

0.37 1.52 0.37 1.89

1.50 0.51 1.14 0.62

20 0013 0642

0016 0537 SU 1218 1828

0.56 1.73 0.26 1.45

20 0029 0634

0000 0606 TU 1229 1847

0.45 1.71 0.25 1.71

20 0045 0636

0145 0740 FR 1325 1958

0.29 1.47 0.41 1.95

0609 1.61 1302 0.39 FR 1903 1.23

21 0105 0728

0014 0630 MO 1304 1914

0.44 1.80 0.19 1.57

21 0108 0712

0057 0700 WE 1313 1933

0.35 1.70 0.26 1.82

21 0126 0717

0240 0835 SA 1411 2045

0.24 1.42 0.47 1.97

22 0202 0832

0.51 1.69 SA 1515 0.32 2108 1.29

0034 0704 SA 1351 1952

0.53 1.73 0.27 1.33

22 0148 0807

0109 0722 TU 1348 1959

0.33 1.84 0.15 1.69

22 0146 0747

0153 0755 TH 1357 2019

0.26 1.65 0.30 1.91

22 0205 0757

0332 0930 SU 1458 2131

0.24 1.36 0.53 1.95

0.48 MULTILINGUAL 23 0243 0910 1.69 1546 0.31 SU SAFETY SURF 2143 1.32 VIDEOS AND 0.37 0320 0.47 1.92 24 INFO 0945 ABOUT 1.68 0.11 MO 1617 0.31 1.38 RIP CURRENTS 2215 1.34 0.32 AT BEACHSAFE. 0357 0.46 25 1.96 1018 1.65 ORG.AU 0.08 TU 1647 0.33

0129 0755 SU 1437 2038

0.43 1.84 0.17 1.43

23 0228 0844

0202 0814 WE 1431 2045

0.25 1.82 0.17 1.77

23 0223 0824

0247 0849 FR 1441 2106

0.22 1.57 0.36 1.94

23 0245 0838

0424 1023 MO 1544 2216

0.26 1.31 0.60 1.88

0221 0845 MO 1521 2124

0.34 1.91 0.10 1.52

24 0304 0918

0256 0905 TH 1515 2130

0.21 1.74 0.23 1.83

24 0300 0900

0343 0944 SA 1525 2153

0.22 1.47 0.45 1.94

24 0324 0920

0515 1115 TU 1630 2302

0.32 1.26 0.67 1.79

10 0314 0933

0.26 1.93 TU 1605 0.09 2210 1.60

25 0340 0951

10 0351 0958

0.21 1.62 FR 1558 0.32 2217 1.84

25 0340 0939

10 0438 1040

0.25 1.37 SU 1610 0.55 2241 1.88

25 0407 1005

10 0604 1207

2

0433 0.47 26 READ IT 1.60 11 0406 1051 1023

26 0416 1026

11 0448 1052

26 0420 1020

11 0535 1137

26 0452 1053

11 0652 1300

2

12 0500 1114

27 0455 1100

12 0548 1149

27 0504 1104

12 0633 1236

27 0542 1145

12 0035 0740

2

13 0557 1205

28 0534 1137

13 0652 1252

28 0554 1154

13 0020 0732

28 0635 1243

13 0126 0826

2

14 0034 0657

29 0617 1217

14 0052 0800

29 0650 1252

14 0116 0830

29 0028 0732

14 0223 0911

2

15 0127 0803

30 0033 0706

15 0155 0909

30 0045 0753

15 0217 0923

30 0129 0830

15 0323 0955

3

0234 0904 SU 1548 2146

0.48 1.77 0.27 1.25

10 0325 0952

0.48 1.75 0.28 1.26

11 0416 1041

0.49 1.71 0.31 1.26

12 0509 1130

0.51 1.65 0.34 1.26

13 0011 0604

0.55 1.57 0.38

14 0102 0704

1.26 0.59 1.48 0.43

15 0158 0810

MO 1633 2233 1.43 0.30 1.94 TU 1717 0.08 2321 1.47

WE 1716 0.36 2321 1.38

'DR RIP’S 0.30 ESSENTIAL 0511 0.49 1.87 27 1125 1.53 BOOK', 0.13 BEACH TH 1745 0.40 2356

BY PROF ROB1.39 1.49BRANDER, 0551 0.52 WWW. 28 0.34 1200 1.44 1.73 SCIENCEOFTHE FR 1815 0.45 0.22 SURF.COM.

1.50 0.40 FR 1313 1.56 1934 0.32

29 0033 0635

1.40 0.57 SA 1238 1.34 1848 0.51

TIMES AND HEIGHTS OF HIGH AND LOW WATERS LAT 340 29’ LONG 1500 55’

1.51 0.47 SA 1411 1.39 2025 0.43

1.27 0.63 1.38 0.47

2248 1.36

0401 1059 WE 1651 2226

1.43 0.60 1.09 0.66

0508 1207 TH 1805 2333

m

0539 1.63 1229 0.36 SA 1840 1.32

0.48 1.77 0.27 1.24

0432 1133 FR 1745 2312

3 4 5

6 7 8 9

0.23 1.88 WE 1648 0.12 2257 1.65 0.23 1.77 TH 1731 0.20 2345 1.67 0.27 1.62 FR 1815 0.31

1.67 0.35 SA 1300 1.44 1900 0.43

1.63 0.42 SU 1400 1.28 1948 0.56

1.54 0.51 TU 1634 1.11 2157 0.71

1.52 0.50 WE 1750 1.13 2309 0.71 1.53 0.47 TH 1847 1.19 0.67 1.55 FR 1330 0.43 1931 1.25

0.61 1.58 SA 1406 0.40 2008 1.32

0.55 1.60 SU 1440 0.38 2042 1.37

0.51 1.60 MO 1510 0.37 2114 1.42 0.48 1.59 TU 1539 0.37 2144 1.47

0.46 1.56 WE 1607 0.38 2215 1.50 0.45 1.52 TH 1634 0.42 2246 1.53 0.46 1.45 FR 1703 0.46 2319 1.55

0.48 1.38 SA 1732 0.51 2355 1.54

0.52 1.29 SU 1804 0.58

1.53 0.55 MO 1303 1.21 1843 0.64

31 0117 0804

1.50 0.59 TU 1400 1.15 1930 0.70

1.48 0.59 WE 1511 1.11 2037 0.74

2 3

4 5 6 7

8 9

0.25 1.48 SA 1641 0.44 2306 1.80

0.32 1.34 SU 1726 0.56 2357 1.73

0.40 1.22 MO 1816 0.67 1.65 0.46 TU 1402 1.15 1916 0.76

1.56 0.50 WE 1519 1.14 2029 0.80

1.48 0.50 FR 1718 1.25 2250 0.74

1.49 0.48 SA 1800 1.33 2344 0.67

1.50 0.46 SU 1836 1.40

0.61 1.51 MO 1256 0.44 1909 1.47 0.55 1.51 TU 1326 0.43 1940 1.54

0.50 1.50 WE 1355 0.44 2011 1.59 0.47 1.47 TH 1424 0.46 2042 1.64 0.45 1.43 FR 1453 0.49 2115 1.67

0.44 1.37 SA 1523 0.54 2147 1.69

0.45 1.32 SU 1556 0.59 2224 1.68

0.47 1.26 MO 1632 0.64 2304 1.66 0.50 1.21 TU 1715 0.70 2350 1.62

0.52 1.17 WE 1809 0.75 1.59 0.51 TH 1401 1.17 1917 0.78

1 0150 0859 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9

0.31 1.28 MO 1657 0.65 2329 1.79 0.39 1.22 TU 1747 0.74

1.68 0.46 WE 1339 1.19 1845 0.80 1.57 0.51 TH 1444 1.20 1953 0.84

1.49 0.53 FR 1543 1.24 2105 0.83

1.44 0.53 SA 1633 1.30 2213 0.79

Time

19 0546 1244

WATCH IT

18 0440 1146

m

18 0509 1130

0.44 1.83 SA 1504 0.19 2100 1.32

1.39 0.65 1.09 0.67

Time

1.64 0.34 1.44 0.57

8 0144 0817

0257 0940 TU 1527 2115

MAY

m

0410 1053 SU 1712 2259

0.48 1.74 0.30 1.22

0319 1027 TH 1633 2157

2

1 0213 0913

1.50 0.51 TH 1627 1.19 2144 0.79

Time

18 0506 1145

0.50 1.72 0.30 1.25

17 0330 1035

m

1.54 0.46 1.21 0.66

0053 0730 FR 1418 2012

1.39 0.65 1.16 0.63

Time

17 0418 1052

WOLLONGONG IS 0117 0.55THE ONLY LOCAL0.55 1.60 21 0751 1.66 BEACH 1438 0.34 0.41 FRPATROLLED 2031 1.24 1.19 YEAR-ROUND.

0201 0827 MO 1416 2014

m

1.59 0.41 1.32 0.68

0.58 1.63 TH 1357 0.38 1950 1.20

16 0224 0917

APRIL

0301 1000 SA 1618 2152

0025 20NORTH 0704

1.39 0.61 SU 1322 1.25 1926 0.57

1 0114 0726

1.58 0.49 MO 1512 1.16 2046 0.65

Time

17 0410 1103

0.48 1.70 0.35 1.20

TH 1219 1848

m

1.49 0.55 1.13 0.73

0000 0641 TH 1331 1922

WE 1802

Time

16 0320 1010

1.63 0.42 1.19

9

m

1.57 0.48 FR 1515 1.22 2036 0.76

5

7

Time

LAT 34° 29’ S Times and Heights JUN

16 0304 1012

0548 1.49 1238 0.53 WE 1825 1.13

6

m

0257 1.51 1.28WOLLONGONG’S 16 BEACHES 0926 0.52 0.68 SWIM 1.28 SU 1518 1.23 0.52 ARE PATROLLED 2120 0.52 0400 1.31 FROM THE 1.52 0.70 17 1047 0.53 1.19 START OF THE1.14 MO 1637 2222 0.58 0.56 SEPTEMBER 0507 1.54 1.34 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 0.49 0.69 18 1205 1.12 TU 1756 UNTIL THE 1.12 2326 0.60 0.58 THE 1.58 0610 1.41 END OF 19 SCHOOL 1308 0.44 0.63 APRIL 1.10 WE 1900 1.15 0.58 HOLIDAYS.

PORT KEMBLA –

Kembla Tidal Chart Local Time

1.42 0.52 SU 1716 1.38 2312 0.73

1.41 0.51 MO 1756 1.47 0.66 1.41 TU 1205 0.50 1830 1.55

0.59 1.41 WE 1238 0.49 1904 1.62 0.53 1.39 TH 1310 0.50 1937 1.69 0.47 1.37 FR 1342 0.52 2011 1.74

0.43 1.35 SA 1415 0.55 2045 1.78

0.41 1.32 SU 1451 0.58 2122 1.79

0.40 1.28 MO 1530 0.62 2202 1.79 0.41 1.26 TU 1613 0.66 2245 1.76

0.42 1.23 WE 1702 0.70 2333 1.72 0.43 1.23 TH 1800 0.73 1.68 0.43 FR 1346 1.25 1906 0.75

1.63 0.41 SA 1449 1.32 2020 0.73

1 0343 1017

1.59 0.35 MO 1643 1.54 2245 0.57 0445 1106 TU 1733 2349

2

1.58 0.34 1.67 0.47

0545 1.56 1153 0.34 WE 1822 1.79

3 4

5

6 7 8 9

0.39 1.23 WE 1719 0.73 2347 1.68 0.45 1.22 TH 1812 0.78 1.57 0.50 FR 1353 1.23 1911 0.81

1.47 0.53 SA 1446 1.27 2017 0.83

1.40 0.54 SU 1538 1.33 2127 0.81

1.35 0.54 MO 1626 1.40 2232 0.75

1

1

1

1

2

2

2

2

2

31 0236 0926

1.61 0.38 SU 1548 1.42 2134 0.67

PHASE SYMBOLS New Moon First Quarter Full Moon Last Quarter Commonwealth of Australia 201 wealth of Australia 2019, BureauMOON of Meteorology  Copyright Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2018, Bureau of Meteorology. Datum of Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Times are in local s Lowest Astronomical© Tide DatumTide. of Predictions is Lowest Astronomica standard time (UTC +10:00) ortime daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) in effect. The Bureau of Meteorology givesare no warranty any dard time (UTC +10:00) or daylight savings (UTC +11:00) when inwhen effect Times in localof standard time (UTC +10:0 kind whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or reliability of New Moon First Quarter Quarter New Moon Full Moon Moon Phase Symbols the information or that the information will be fit for any particular purpose or willLast not infringe any third party Intellectual Property rights.

46

The Bureau’s liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense resulting from use of, or reliance on, the information is entirely excluded.