COAST Winter 2024

IT’S THE SEALY SEASON / THE ULTIMATE GIRLS GETAWAYS

LIVING ON THE EDGES / WHAT’S NEW AT THE SNOW

Winter 2024

WELCOME 6

DISCOVER THE COAST & LAKES

Map 8

Living on the edges 9

LOVING LOCAL

BFF escapes: the ultimate girls getaways 16

Winter essentials 22

Country Chic 24

Your colour palette forecast for every season

TALES OF TWO

Monique Keogh and Natasha Nicholson 28

FEATURE

It’s the sealy season 30

EAT & DRINK

An exquisite new oyster is coming 36

Tara Senam: don’t ever under-estimate a 12-year-old with ambition 38

Too busy to cook 40

COAST PEOPLE

Jessica Kirkness, a GODA, grew up in a house with all the lights on 46

COAST LIVING

An award-winning house built against all the odds

Design Matters with Xanthe Highfield 52

A ‘holiday at home’ garden oasis 54

DESTINATIONS

What’s new at the snow? 60

Aboard the legendary Ghan 64

WELL BEING

Cold plunging, swim-club style 66

Which fitness routine will keep you motivated? 68

Central Coast communities with kids at heart 70

What do a school dropout, a prominent police prosecutor and the head of Coast Shelter all have in common?

A no-timetable, no-diet fitness solution for busy women 74

Karla Dickens, embracing shadows 76 OUT & ABOUT

Check out these local winter events! 78

COAST FAMILIES

Explore the creative talents in all kids 81

Albert the cuddlepot is everyone’s favourite 83

PEARL

Welcome

Winter is here. We’ve already had more than enough rain. It’s cold outside. Time to curl up with a good book or, we hope, magazine and let its pages do your walking while you’re snug inside! In this issue we’ll take you on a tour of some of the Central Coast’s more far-flung villages that you may not have explored.

We have a ton of ideas (or, better still, ten of the best) for a girls’ getaway weekend or day.

And as our cover hinted, we take a close look at Sammy, Rocky, Keeper and Wally, our local neighbourhood seals. We think their recurring presence is one of things that make living here on the Coast so special.

And while we’re talking about what makes our region so special, it’s also about the

heart of our community: people who give their time looking out for others and not seeking the limelight for themselves. In the first of a series, we’re shining a light on them in Communities with Heart. (We think you’ll be heartened.)

If we haven’t yet persuaded the stalwarts among us to hibernate this season, you can also read about the bravehearts who take the plunge into our wintery ocean each year, and the ocean swim clubs that encourage that sort of behaviour.

We know Coast kids won’t think of hibernating their energy levels, so our kids’ pages have some great ideas, not only to keep them occupied, but to encourage their essential creativity at the same time.

Enjoy.

Catharine

Catharine Retter, Publisher

COAST

EDITOR, PUBLISHER Catharine Retter editorial@coastpublishing.com.au

SUB EDITOR Helen Hayes

ART DIRECTOR

Jude Rowe, Agave Creative Group

PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Haymes

PRINCIPAL WRITERS

Megan Arkinstall • Jennifer Ennion • Xanthe Highfield Suzy Jarratt • Catharine Retter • Sheriden Rhodes Paul Urquhart • Tara Wells • Julie Wright

ILLUSTRATORS

Maps: Guy Holt • Lauren Merrick

ADVERTISING

Anissa Vineburg 0408 692 129 Lyndal Keyzer 0432 800 150 advertising@coastpublishing.com.au

SOCIAL MEDIA

Julie Wright, Anchor Co. admin@coastpublishing.com.au

DISTRIBUTION Alex Tkachenko admin@coastpublishing.com.au

ADMINISTRATION admin@coastpublishing.com.au

COAST is published by Coast Publishing ABN 11 145 976 049 PO Box 6407 Kincumber NSW 2251

COPYRIGHT AND WARRANTIES

The editorial content, photographic content, design and graphic art (including design of any advertisements by Coast Publishing) are all subject to copyright and must not be reproduced in any form without written permission from Coast Publishing.

While we strive to ensure information contained in this magazine is correct and current at the time of printing, details may be subject to change and we recommend contacting venues or event organisers before planning your visit. The information contained in this magazine has been provided by contributors, interviewees and advertisers and their sources.

No warranty is given by Coast Publishing as to the accuracy of this information nor any liability arising from any reliance upon the information contained herein.

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We wish to acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land, the Awabakal and Darkinjung peoples and their Elders past and present. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land.

Saner.

The end of a perfect day, Brisbane Water. Photo: Ryan Hodder

AFTER 40 YEARS SERVICING THE PENINSULA, DM GOODSELL REAL ESTATE IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THEIR NEXT CHAPTER...

“Your property journey is unique, and we are here to ensure that your next chapter is a smooth and rewarding experience.”

Villages & Beaches CENTRAL COAST AND LAKES

DISCOVER THE COAST & LAKES

Living on the Edges

WHETHER YOU’RE A LONG-TIME LOCAL OR AN ENTHUSIASTIC VISITOR, WE DOUBT YOU’VE BEEN ABLE TO EXPLORE EVERY TOWN THROUGHOUT THE CENTRAL COAST, THE SIXTH LARGEST, URBAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA IN ALL OF AUSTRALIA. IT’S BIGGER THAN CANBERRA – WITH ALMOST THE SAME SIZED POPULATION BUT A LOT MORE TREES, WATERWAYS AND BEACHES. 8

Sydney Oyster Farm Tours offers in-water dining, complete with white tablecloths and wading boots.

The furthest points on the map can sometimes be the ones we know the least so we’ve brought you a snapshot of a few of the villages and townships on the northern, southern and western edges of the Central Coast. Beyond these we have vast tracts of nature: the 149 km2 Dharug National Park to the south west, the 65 km2 McPherson State Forest and the 101 km2 Mangrove Creek Dam catchment area to the west, as well as the 440 km2 Olney State Forest and 18 km2 Watagan State Forest to the north west.

These natural lands remain home to the region’s rich Aboriginal history with one of the highest densities of Aboriginal art sites in the greater Sydney area.

To the south

Mooney Mooney

Location: On the southern edge of the Central Coast, it’s a name we’re most familiar with because of the Mooney Mooney Creek Bridge on the M1. Its neighbours are Peat Island and Spectacle Island on either side of the motorway. Population 350+.

Lifestyle: It’s a scenic and secluded area characterised by a rocky foreshore and hilly landscape. Boating and the river are a major feature for locals and visitors alike.

History: The name’s Aboriginal meaning is thought to mean ‘many kangaroos’. The area was one of the first European coastal settlements in NSW after Governor Phillip sailed up the Hawkesbury in 1788. George Peat was an early colonial settler and started the ferry service from Kangaroo Point to Mooney Mooney and it was not until 1945 that the Peats Ferry Road Bridge was built. Remnants of its timber piles and ferry docks can still be seen at Mooney Mooney Point.

Peat Island, Kooroowall-Undi, had a sad history as an asylum, and in 2022 was transferred to the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council with future plans to use it as a culturally appropriate place to recognise all aspects of its past and showcase Indigenous culture for all to see and learn.

What to enjoy:

• Deerubbun Reserve provides public access to the Hawkesbury and has a wharf and boat ramps, a car and trailer parking area, fish-cleaning table, picnic tables and amenities.

• Broken Bay Pearl Farm is the only pearl farm on the east coast of Australia. Visit their Shellar Door to see the exquisite Akoya pearls, take a pearl farm tour (on land and sea) to learn the story of these world-class, locally grown pearls. The Shellar Door also offers pearl jewellery and Indigenous shell artwork for sale.

lovecentralcoast.com/broken-bay-pearl-farm

• Sydney Oyster Farm Tours is ECO Certified and offers in-water dining, complete with white tablecloths and wading boots. You can’t get closer than that to fresh Sydney Rock Oysters and Pacific Oysters. Try your hand at shucking and take a scenic boat tour to the oyster leases to learn about the evolution of aquaculture farming.

lovecentralcoast.com/sydney-oyster-farm-tours-mooney-mooney

• Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed is where you can enjoy al fresco casual dining alongside the river to savour high quality local oysters and fresh seafood. This small oyster farm is passionate about oysters and the environment with all their oyster shells saved for fish farms or returned to nature.

lovecentralcoast.com/hawkesbury-river-oyster-shed

BELOW LEFT Mooney Mooney Creek Bridge.

BELOW Broken Bay Pearl Farm's Shellar Door offers pearl jewellery and Indigenous shell artwork.

East Gosford, Ettalong, Kincumber, Lisarow & Wyong

East Gosford, Ettalong, Kincumber, Lisarow & Wyong

East Gosford, Ettalong, Kincumber, Lisarow & Wyong

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We deliver the products and technology you’d expect from a big bank, plus the personal service you wouldn’t.

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As one of Australia’s biggest banks, our heartland remains firmly local. As does our focus on you and the quality banking products you need.

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Feel good about who you bank with. Try Bendigo.

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Spencer

Location: This riverside suburb at the junction of the Hawkesbury River and Mangrove Creek is reached from the north and south along Wisemans Ferry Road. Population 306+.

Lifestyle: Away-from-it-all, riverside living.

History: The village is thought to have been named after the second Earl of Spencer (1758-1834), first Lord of the Admiralty and mentor to Lord Nelson.

What to enjoy:

• View the beautiful houses along the main road (including the second oldest house in Spencer featured in COAST’s Autumn issue).

• Enjoy the charm of the village, its serene riverside setting and passing boats. Try the outdoor, waterside seating at The Anchor, previously the village store, now serving locally caught seafood, cooked fresh.

• Travel further along picturesque Wisemans Ferry Road to the ferry crossing the Hawkesbury (established 1827) as one of the main routes from Sydney north to Newcastle along the Great North Road.

As a riverside community, Spencer can sometimes flood, so check road closures ahead of your visit.

lovecentralcoast.com/the-anchor-spencer lovecentralcoast.com/neighbourhoods/spencer lovecentralcoast.com/heritage-ventures

LEFT One of the beautiful historical house along the main road of Spencer.

BELOW The Anchor restaurant in the village.

BELOW LEFT Heritage Ventures offers walking tours and river cruises filled with history around Spencer and the Hawkesbury River.

To the west

Kulnura

Location: Situated north of Mangrove Mountain along George Downes Drive and extending to the Great North Road, Bumble Hill Road and Red Hill Road towards Yarramalong. Population 600+.

Lifestyle: A rural and agricultural area, known for its large properties, country lifestyle and citrus orchards.

History: Named by Europeans in 1914 after the Aboriginal word said to mean ‘up in the clouds’.

What to enjoy:

• Ourimbah State Forest mountain bike track. Moderate. 35 km

lovecentralcoast.com/trails/ourimbah-state-forest

• Mangrove Creek Dam and Visitor Centre. The dam, its new interactive visitor centre, revitalised picnic area and facilities host around 20,000 visitors per year. The dam is the largest on the Central Coast and its catchment area is set in serene bushland surrounds. Watch for visiting wildlife.

lovecentralcoast.com/mangrove-creek-dam-visitor-centre

• Grace Springs Farm. Come on a farm tour to let the kids connect to where their (chemical free) food comes from. See a cow being milked, collect the eggs, cuddle a chick and pat the sheep.

• East Coast Beverages. A Central Coast family institution now guided by third generation Lentini family members. Its citrus orchards provide Australia with delicious fresh juices, as well as local spring water, sparkling water, fresh fruit, gelatos and more. Visit during the annual Harvest Festival.

lovecentralcoast.com/east-coast-beverages

• Paradise Botanical Gardens. The Central Coast’s own botanical gardens, open only at certain times in the year, it’s possibly the region’s best kept secret. Privately owned, the garden is home to many rare and unusual plants, animals and quirky stone structures. It’s available for weddings and functions, glamping, camping or Airbnb stays.

lovecentralcoast.com/paradise-botanical-gardens

ABOVE Grace Springs Farm.

ABOVE RIGHT Ourimbah State Forest mountain bike track.

RIGHT Paradise Botanical Gardens.

Mangrove Mountain

Location: Situated north of Spencer and 14 km up Mangrove Creek. Population 736+.

Lifestyle: Predominantly rural acreages with citrus orchards, avocadoes, plant nurseries, livestock and vegetables.

History: Named in the 1830s to differentiate the area (altitude 307 m) from Mangrove Creek below the plateau. It was farmed by colonial settlers with produce brought down the ‘mountain’ to Mangrove Creek. The area is criss-crossed with Aboriginal travel routes evidenced by rock engravings, grinding grooves, tools and middens.

What to enjoy:

• The Hub. At the centre of the local community, the Hub has a village store, café and local farm fresh produce market where you can choose to sit inside or al fresco under the trees.

lovecentralcoast.com/the-hub-of-mangrove-mountain

• Popran National Park. Enter via Ironbark Road. Within its 40 km2, it is home to Aboriginal heritage sites, great walking trails, kayaking, mountain biking, horse riding, fishing and is a haven for wildlife.

• Ironbark Ranch Co. An idyllic hinterland bush retreat set on 43 hectares and surrounded by Popran National Park, it is perfect for retreats, holiday stays and venue hire.

lovecentralcoast.com/ironbark-ranch-co

LEFT Popran National Park.

BELOW Ironbark Ranch Co. bush retreat.

To the north

Lake Munmorah

Location: This shallow coastal lagoon is part of the Tuggerah Lakes complex and flows directly into Budgewoi Lake. It lies north of Budgewoi and is bounded by Wyee, Mannering Park and Wyee Bay. Population 5,248+.

Lifestyle: Coastal and lakeside living.

History: Munmorah is an Aboriginal name said to mean ‘stones for grinding seeds’.

What to enjoy:

• Adjacent to the lake, and to its north, is the Munmorah State Conservation Area with coastal bushwalking, rock fishing and surf breaks. The coastal area is also renowned for its sea caves.

• Matt’s Diner is a great spot to grab a burger and chips and is conveniently located at the start of the 12.6 km Wybung Head trail, a cycle and walk track with great coastal views.

lovecentralcoast.com/trails/wybung-head lovecentralcoast.com/matts-diner

Summerland Point

Location: Situated on the peninsula facing Lake Macquarie and neighboured by Gwandalan and Chain Valley Bay. Population 6,492+.

Around 15 per cent of the southern catchment of Lake Macquarie is located within the Central Coast.

Lifestyle: Lakeside access with lots of water-based activities.

History: Formerly known as Gwandalan West (an Aboriginal name said to mean ‘resting or restful place’), it was subdivided in 1924 and renamed.

What to enjoy:

• It has a sheltered boat launching ramp at Boat Harbour, a lagoon accessible by most trailer-boats along the channel to Lake Mac. Local shops and cafés are within a walk of Boat Harbour.

• The Olive Tree Brasserie. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it offers modern Mediterranean casual dining with pizzas, pastas and more, and is fully licensed.

lovecentralcoast.com/the-olive-tree-brasserie

• Lake Macquarie Sailing Tours. Offers personalised, morning and afternoon yacht tours with up to four passengers to explore the beauty and nature of Lake Macquarie.

lovecentralcoast.com/things-to-do/waterways/ lovecentralcoast.com/lake-macquarie-sailing-tours

Wybung Head.

Matt’s Diner.

The Olive Tree Brasserie.

Lake Macquarie Sailing Tours

LOVING Local

BFF escapes: the ultimate girls getaways

WORDS TARA WELLS

The best reason to celebrate friendships is simply the tremendous feat of aligning your diaries. Make it one to remember with the Coast’s best offerings.

AN AVOCA RETREAT

Take advantage of time together by hiring a beach-view apartment minus the summer crowds. George Brand Holiday Accommodation is the go-to for popular Avoca Beach. If year-round swimming doesn’t appeal then winter promises long beach strolls and whale watching. Shop the coastal-inspired homewares, fashion and relaxed luxe lifestyle offerings at Weekends Store. Expect Australian-made and ethically sourced products featuring raw, earthy colour palettes and textures. Keep snug in cooler weather by heading to Like Minds, a zero-waste cafe, to drink seriously good coffee. Catch a flick or live music at cosy Avoca Beach Theatre. Then re-group for drinks and nibbles on your private entertaining terrace overlooking the bay.

weekendsstore.com

holidays.georgebrand.com.au

PICK SUNSHINY SUNFLOWERS

Bring home bright yellow bundles of joy from pick-your-own mornings at The Bloom Barn at Peats Ridge. Sunflowers are available for picking throughout the year, even in winter when a burst of vibrancy is most needed. Since opening the farm to the public on selected dates three years ago, owner and flower farmer, Ivan Rusev, says the PYO days are increasingly popular. ‘Sunflowers are such a happy flower and many people’s favourite.’ He is expecting to open up more weekends for the public (check dates online). Pickers are encouraged to make a morning of it. If the take-home cheer of sunflowers isn’t tempting enough, then marshmallows roasting over the farm’s fire pit could be

STYLE UP

thebloombarn.com.au

HIGH TEA AT HOME OR BY THE SEA

The most effective rallying cry to get the gals together is the promise of fresh scones and hot tea (or coffee, or bubbles). We think Tea by the Sea sounds deliciously appealing and The Box on the Water at Ettalong is the place to be on Wednesdays and Sundays for a traditional high tea with a touch of modern. But if an overdue catch-up requires more time, then high tea at home (yours or the holiday rental) without you having to do the hard work is a good idea too. Wamberal local, Angela Bainbridge, started High Tea 2 Your Door in 2017, taking hassle-free deliciousness all over the Central Coast. She provides the fine bone china, tiered cake stands and white linen tablecloths. You provide the guests and venue. Choose from six to 10 high tea items per person and, says Angela, ‘I like to cook from scratch. Apart from bread, everything is made by these little hands.’ Highly recommended: the decadent dark chocolate brownie. theboxonthewater.com hightea2yourdoor.com

Some people love shopping, but others shudder at the thought. Stylist Kelly-Anne Kent knows this can come from not knowing what clothes suit your body, or from feeling overwhelmed. ‘They can’t find anything and want help and a personalised experience,’ says Kelly-Anne. That’s where KelK Styling comes in, offering private Sip + Style afternoons at the Jilliby studio. Friends enjoy a cold drink and share platters of cheese and bickies while Kel guides their personal style, with no obligation to buy. Inevitably, anyone who is at first hesitant gains confidence from Kel’s expertise and their friend’s encouragement. ‘By the end,’ says Kel, ‘no one cares about the changeroom and it gets a little crazy but it’s really fun.’ And you may even head home with clothes you’ll actually wear.

kelkstyling.com.au

THE BEAUTY OF PEARLS (AND OYSTERS)

Perhaps you’ve seen the Hawkesbury’s oyster farms from the road or the trainline. Peer closer and you’ll realise there are more to oysters than au naturale or kilpatrick. Because real beauty is what’s on the inside when it comes to Akoya oysters. Specifically, pearls. At Broken Bay Pearl Farm, the east coast’s only pearl farm, get an brokenbaypearlfarm.com.au

ON YOUR BIKE

Drink in the best of Brisbane Water by bike. For the friend who always protests (likely because their previous ride was so long ago it involved Spokey Dokeys stuck in the pokes of your bicycle wheels to make a noise), let the Gosford to Woy Woy scenic cycleway do the convincing. It’s a mostly flat 19.2 km there-and-back ride along Brisbane Water’s foreshore. Halfway along the ride at the Koolewong marina is Kefi, making it the ideal place to stop for a coffee or lunch, share the best Greek food on the Coast and watch boats go by. Or talk up lunch the other side of the Spike Milligan Bridge, stopping at the award-winning seafood eatery, Woy Woy Fishermen's Wharf. Forego the restaurant to grab takeaway grilled Atlantic salmon and salad, or a half lobster mornay, to refuel for the return ride. Depending on fitness, it could be an hour’s ride in total plus as long as you like for lunch. On your bike.

kefikoolewong.com.au woywoyfishermenswharf.com.au

CLIMB ON

If life has you climbing the walls, you may as well spark feel-good endorphins with friends while you’re doing it. For that, you’ll need an indoor climbing gym like Pulse Climbing in West Gosford. It’s a bouldering gym, meaning that instead of climbing really high with a rope, you’ll be mucking about at lower levels with a crash pad (if only life offered those). There’s something for every level of fitness and expertise. Beginners, especially, could do with a group of trusted mates who’ll encourage you to reach new heights. Literally. pulseclimbing.com.au

Shop Winter at Erina Fair

Lack of Colour

Eadie

White closet knit set $159.95

1.Linen Pinafore $99

Stemless Copper Champagne Flutes $59.95. 4. Anna Chandler Door Mat $65

Diffusers $40

Sunnylife Beach Bat & Ball $20

Anna Chandler

Anna Chandler Mug set $49.95

With an array of fashion retailers showcasing trending hues and colour combinations you can shop with colour confidence whatever the season.

Your colour palette fashion forecast for every season

WORDS SAM AND JORDI WOODS

This year is about creating harmony between statement colour, whimsical hues and organic tones. We are loving how there is something for every colour palette at Erina Fair this winter from delicate hues to colours that demand style attention.

Wearing colours that compliment your complexion, features and style will ensure every element of your look feels authentic, making dressing for any occasion a dream.

Rework your wardrobe or refresh your look by infusing some new ‘perfect for you’ hues into your everyday style. With an array of fashion retailers showcasing trending hues and colour combinations you can shop with colour confidence whatever the season.

Winter palette – cool, high contrast

Strong, mystical and dramatically feminine, the winter palette is taking moonlight hues and giving them a distinctive glamorous touch. Mixes of Eclipse, Magenta, Ink Navy and Bottle Green are given a cool edge with contrasts of Icy Blue, Silver Birch, Bright Red and Winter White.

Spring palette – warm, high contrast

Can’t wait for spring? Energetic hues that radiate a warm and vibrant vibe are making way into the spring wardrobes. Opt for colour that is joyful and fun teamed with contrasts of classic shades. French Navy, Poppy Red, Warm Coal and Lush Green work in harmony with statement shades of Lapis Blue, Orange, Toffee and Ivory.

Summer palette – cool, low contrast

Planning for a big summer event, or just dreaming of the warmer weather? Feminine and simplistic combinations will elevate a summer wardrobe leaving you rejuvenated, and your senses calmed. Pair subtle shades of Oyster Grey, Mocha and Raspberry with mindful pastels of Petal Pink, Buttercup, Powder Blue and Vanilla.

Autumn palette – warm, low contrast

Plan ahead with grounded, rich and full-bodied colours teamed with delicious tones in heart-warming and timeless tones for autumn palettes. Think delectable hues of Brown Fudge, Caramel, Rust, Charcoal and Soft Khaki infused with tonal combinations of Peach, Coconut Milk and Mustard.

erinafair.com.au

TALES OF TWO

MONIQUE KEOGH & NATASHA NICHOLSON –

and The Box that built a friendship

Twelve years ago, when Monique Keogh was running Coast 175 café in Ettalong, she had a regular customer who loved the coffee and they’d enjoy chats about the weather (and how good the coffee was). The customer was UK newcomer, Natasha Nicholson, who had a marketing and media background as well as a shared experience in hospitality. She offered to help Monique out with her social media, and a friendship grew over Instagram and Facebook posts and out of their common interests: good food and good wine. Then, a year later, a waterfront restaurant site came up for tender in Ettalong. Natasha encouraged Monique to go for it. Monique then suggested they should combine their efforts. To both their surprise, Natasha said ‘yes’.

They had a shared vision on what the restaurant concept would be and what the local community and tourists would benefit from. Natasha put her marketing skills to the task and although Monique had front-of-house experience, her strength was also in finance and accounting. They did the sums, recognised the potential of the location and worked up a business plan which became the backbone of their winning tender.

‘We signed the contract on 18 December and opened The Box on the Water six months later,’ says Natasha. In July this year, they celebrate their 10-year partnership.

A lot has changed in those 10 years but the one constant has been their friendship. In 2018, within eight short weeks of each other, each

WORDS CATHARINE RETTER

PHOTO LISA HAYMES

lost their husband. For Monique it had not been unexpected after her husband’s long illness. ‘Even though I was in denial most of that time,’ she admits. But for Natasha, just two months later and just before Christmas, the shock was sudden and unexpected.

‘Tash had been my rock,’ says Monique. ‘She stepped in when I was overwhelmed with grief and now, suddenly, I had to try to be her support and strength.’

‘Our staff were magnificent,’ adds Natasha. ‘And the positive to come out of this situation was that we were able to delegate a lot of the front of house responsibilities to the staff and managers, and that let us work more on the business rather than in the business.’

Both had children who had to cope with losing a Dad, so it also meant they had to keep functioning for their sakes. ‘You just keep doing what you have to do.’

A planned series of celebrity chef dinners even went ahead as scheduled in the midst of both their mourning.

‘Although 2019 was a bit of a blur for both of us, our stepping back from the day-to-day running also meant we could plan things like opening a second restaurant, Frederico’s, opposite the Gosford waterfront,’ says Natasha. ‘Frederico’s attracted a younger crowd. It was Latin and fun and helped a little in taking our minds off what had happened to us the previous year. It opened six months before

Covid hit and that, of course, created a lot of staffing challenges.’

‘Frederico’s ran for three years. It was a great success but when the lease ran out, we realised our priorities had changed and that we wanted to focus on The Box alone,’ says Monique. ‘We’ve been fortunate in having a great team and it’s one with longevity. Melanie Makepeace is our restaurant manager and has been with us since day one. She is a fully qualified sommelier and curates our wine list, which is boutique and original.’

2024 is a big year for the team at The Box on the Water. Not only are there special celebrations planned for their 10th anniversary, but in May they launched Tea by the Sea on Wednesdays and Sundays with 10 special teas selected from Emerald Tea Traders at Bensville, and of course a spread of delectable high tea treats.

‘We’re also excited about hosting our annual wine and dinner series featuring different boutique wineries: Howard Park from Margaret River, Shut the Gate Wines from the Clare Valley, and Printhie/Swift from Orange to celebrate our 10th birthday in July.

After 10 eventful years, would they ever think of selling?

‘The Box is our baby. We just couldn’t think of it!’ Monique and Natasha say almost in unison. C

theboxonthewater.com

MOST PEOPLE KNOW THAT WINTER IS A GREAT TIME TO CATCH A LOOK AT THE MIGRATING WHALES, BUT IT’S ALSO THE TIME WE GET QUITE A FEW SEAL VISITORS.

SEALY SEASON

Some of the long-nosed fur seals around Broken Bay and Brisbane Water and up to Norah Head and beyond are such regular visitors that locals refer to them by name.

Around Brisbane Water there’s Sammy, who’s a bit of a character and likes leaping on to moored yachts out of harm’s way for a snooze on the cabin roof. (We have it on firsthand authority that he’s not as bad to clean up after as you may imagine.) Sammy’s even been known to jump aboard a moving ferry where, to the passengers’ delight, he stretched out and promptly fell asleep on the deck.

Around Norah Head, Keeper thinks the beach is his own private domain. Around Terrigal, Rocky is a regular sight. And of course, there’s Wally, who likes to adventure in and out of Tuggerah Lake.

The ‘bachelor’ colony at Barrenjoey

There’s also what is referred to as a ‘bachelor colony’ at the foot of Barrenjoey headland. The colony has been observed for around nine years and began with just four seals, growing to more than 20 now.

Courtship behaviours have certainly been observed for some time there between the big blubbery bull seals and the more petite females.8

© JENNIFER HARTICH

© MATT GHAZAWY

Sammy, the Brisbane Water seal, snoozing aboard the heritage ferry Codock II.

Keeper, the seal at Norah Head, poking his flipper above the water to help regulate his body temperature.

This is especially important because Australian fur seal populations are still recovering from the thriving fur trade of the 1800s. The males will mate with as many females as they can, whereas the females will mate with only one male.

Both the long-nosed and Australian fur seals are listed as vulnerable under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Before their mass slaughterings, there were thought to be around half a million fur seals. Today, Australian fur seals are thought to number around 92,000.

The big news is that a newborn seal pup has been spotted sunbathing on the big rocks at Barrenjoey since the end of the pupping season, so any newborn is definitely welcome news.

Long-nosed fur seal, New Zealand fur seal or Australian fur seal?

We tend to mostly see the eared, long-nosed fur seals (previously known as New Zealand fur seals) because they are found in shallow inshore waters and around the margins of the continental shelf where they dive down to 380 metres to feed mostly on fish and cephalopods such as squid and octopus. Their cousins, the Australian fur seals, dive to a maximum depth of 200 metres where they mainly feed on squid, octopus, fish and lobsters.

The cousins are difficult to tell apart but long-nosed fur seals are slightly smaller and darker in colour.

Breeding colonies

Historically, seal breading sites in New South Wales included Port Stephens and the aptly named Seal Rocks, but today scientists tell us that our local seals migrate up from Montague Island which is the northern-most ‘major haul-out area’ along the NSW coast.

The local seals that continue to hang around here during winter are usually young bachelors or old bulls who can no longer compete with the up and coming young studs, or even bulls taking a rest from their demanding breeding regimes.

Threats to our seals

Like too many other marine animals, seals face a range of dangers today including the risk of becoming entangled in fishing gear and other marine debris. Collisions with vessels and outboard motors are also a serious concern, as are oil spills, accumulation of toxic compounds and commercial fishing which may lead to a reduction in the seals’ food supply.

‘In the future, rising sea levels and increased storm frequency induced by climate change will also threaten many breeding areas because seal pups are born close to sea level on rocky ledges and cliffs,’ says Dr Krista van der Linde, a New Zealand seal biologist from the University of Canterbury, who grew up on the Central Coast.

The seals’ main natural predators are sharks, and some local seals have even been seen with ‘cookie-cutter’ scars from the small sharks

A seal pup rests on the rocks at Barrenjoey.

of the same name that take a circular, cookie-cutter sized chunk from their prey, leaving the seals able to survive the wound.

Seals spend their nights hunting and like to catch up on sleep during the day. But be warned, what seems like a sleepy yawn as you approach is really a threat display designed to show off a seal’s canine teeth.

Dr van der Linde advises people to always give seals their space and to understand that we should not be fearful, just respectful of these species. ‘Like all wild predators, if people approach and disturb or harass them, they will show warning signs and may attack.’

Ronny Ling from Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast agrees. ‘If you do come across a seal hauled out on the beach or rocks, keep a safe distance because they do bite,’ he warns. ‘Stay at least 40 metres away and never get between the seal and the water which is his escape route to safety. It goes without saying that you should keep children away, but dogs are a real danger to seals so please keep

‘Now we’ve got the next step to tackle as part of their conservation and management, that is actually working out how to live alongside them.’

If you see a seal, or any other marine wildlife you think may need help, please call Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast on 0478 439 965. C

© CHRIS

DICK PHOTOGRAPHY

© HAYDEN BRAY

Seal at Crackneck.

Rocky, the seal at Terrigal Haven, chilling by the seagrass.

Set your sights on a stunning view of the dazzling Brisbane Water and let your taste buds run wild at Gosford Sailing Club. Whether you ' re a curious traveler or a seasoned local, this hidden gem is a must-see

W A T E R F R O N T D I N I N G

EAT & DRINK

THERE’S AN EXQUISITE NEW OYSTER COMING TO SOME OF THE CENTRAL COAST’S BEST RESTAURANTS

Imagine a world in which the only wine grape variety was a Chardonnay, or perhaps a Cabernet Sauvignon. Delicious, but limited. Oysters are a bit like that too. Sydney Rock Oysters – delicious – but that’s the only oyster many of us will have tasted.

Now, not only is there a new oyster on the menu, but the only place it is grown and harvested on the east coast of Australia, is right here on the Central Coast in the clear waters of Brisbane Water and the lower Hawkesbury River bays. It’s the Akoya oyster, a delicacy that’s been known to the local Indigenous populations for centuries.

We’ve come to know it as the oyster that grows the remarkable Akoya pearls and, for the past few years, Broken Bay Pearl Farm has been working behind the scenes with food scientists at the University of Newcastle in Ourimbah, James Cook University and the Australian Quality Assurance Program to ensure they can bring us all healthy and sustainable oysters.

‘We were due to launch Akoya oysters three years ago,’ says Broken Bay Pearl Farm CEO, James Brown, a marine biologist. ‘But the devastating floods down the Hawkesbury River decimated our oyster stocks and it’s taken this long for a new crop to mature.’

Today, a number of the best chefs around the Coast are busy devising tantalising ways to add it to their menus. For the immediate future, Akoya oysters will be exclusive to Central Coast restaurants, delivered straight from Broken Bay Pearl Farm's oyster leases.

Chef Kodi Southgate at Saddles Restaurant Mt White loves the Akoya. ‘I describe its flavour as similar in texture to mussels, but you get the creamy finish of a Sydney Rock Oyster. Its texture, combined with the saltiness of the sea and creaminess of the oyster allows you to pair them with native ingredients that you would not normally be able to use with Sydney Rocks.’

Apart from offering a new gastronomic experience, the Akoya oyster is also a visual delight when served on its beautiful iridescent, mother-of-pearl shell.

‘It’s definitely coming to the Saddles menu,’ says chef Kodi. ‘We will be changing it between a number of exciting flavours I have been playing around with such as: natural with Davidson plum vinaigrette; grilled with fermented chili butter and saltbush pangratato (crispy Italian breadcrumbs); and with Bloody Mary pearls.’

The last uses molecular gastronomy, creating a burst of flavour in a pearl shaped homage to the Akoya’s reputation for beautiful pearls. In case you needed any other excuse to try them, Akoya oysters are an excellent source of zinc, iron, calcium, Vitamin A and B12, and are rich in protein but low in kilojoules.

Given its reputation for pearls, what made Broken Bay Pearl Farm go from only growing pearls to also harvesting the oysters for meat?

‘When oysters spawn they produce tens of millions of eggs,’ says James Brown. ‘But we only use a very small fraction of that number for pearl seeding so that means there are hundreds of thousands that are left to their natural devices and we didn’t want to let so many go to waste.

‘Sydney Rock Oysters are grown across 4,500 aquatic hectares in the greater Sydney area. Here on the Central Coast, Akoya has found its sweet spot to grow in an area that is less than five per cent of the Sydney Rocks’ total area.’

That volume means Akoya oysters may well remain exclusive to our local restaurants! C

Broken Bay Pearl Farm shellar-door, boat tours, tastings and hands-on pearl grading experiences can be booked at brokenbaypearlfarm.com.au

TARA SENAM

Don’t ever under-estimate a 12-year-old with ambition.

WORDS CATHARINE RETTER

As a 12-year-old, Tara’s first job was washing dishes in a café at Norah Head. When she came home after her first day at work, she told her parents she was going to buy the café one day. Now she owns Motel Mezza, Little Miss Mezza, Pinocchio’s, Kefi, The Pantry in Forresters, and more.

‘Mum and Dad didn’t take me seriously,’ she says. ‘And wanted me to think about a proper job when I left school. As a result, I tried my hand as an apprentice motorbike mechanic, a receptionist, and worked in child education for a time.’

When Tara was 19 or 20, she realised she still loved hospitality, so she made up her mind to prove she could make it in the industry.

‘I made a career move to Platinum Blu café in Erina under Franziska Prosser (now owner of Foodworx) and I was so fortunate to learn from her. She was so passionate about her café and her cooking, and was raising two children at the same time.’

Tara credits much of her business nous from meeting James Nouri just as he was starting what was to become the Jimmy G chain of cafés. He became her business partner. Tara took the leap to opening her first business, Tommy’s, below the Gosford Sailing Club.

‘We named it for Sir Thomas Brisbane, after whom the water in front of the sailing club is named. And when the lease became available down the road opposite the Gosford waterfront, we opened as a café.’

There was no stopping Tara. In 2016, she opened Pinocchio’s opposite Kibble Park. Motel Mezza in Wyong and Little Miss Mezza followed in West Gosford. But her father’s Greek heritage called and she continued to look for the perfect location to open a Greek restaurant.

‘Because it represented something personal, I wanted it to be perfect: the perfect location and the perfect dining experience,’ she says. ‘It took me until late last year to find it.’

It is, of course, Kefi on the marina at Koolewong with its deep blue and white colour scheme, expansive water views, and a menu that encourages shared dishes.

‘I feel it’s already a success and I’m excited by what it’s also going to be. At Easter we had a lamb on the spit. We’ve had an oyster tasting

pop-up – our oysters travel all the way from the oyster shed three minutes down the road. We’d also love to start doing micro weddings – from as little as two people or more, where you don’t need to book out the whole restaurant. There are just so many possibilities!’

Take a look at Tara’s website and you’ll see an emphasis on her passion for encouraging young people to get a start in hospitality. She runs industry mentoring and is excited to nurture their hospitality careers and give them the space to try different things.

Tara practices what she preaches in her own businesses too.

‘In my restaurants, our leaders are given autonomy so they learn how to walk the business path. I love the sense of giving in our industry too, and our teams give back as part of their roles. We have a Meraki Mission Impact Day, a monthly give back, dedicating time to the community and team building.’

What does this non-stop businesswoman do in her spare time?

Does she have any spare time?

‘My hobby is eating and drinking and I love spending time in other people’s venues, particularly in Sydney and overseas looking at what the rest of the world is doing.’

Family also looms large for Tara. Her mother is Australian but her father ensured his Greek heritage was present in her upbringing.

‘I was one of three daughters (I also have an older brother) and I never brought boyfriends home. Dad was strict but he softened as he got older. When he saw I was serious about my business, he really got on board. He’s a builder and he’s built all of my restaurants including the two most recent, Kefi and Little Miss Mezza.’

Tara had her first son at 22 and now has two boys aged 12 and seven years.

‘My fiancé, Adam, runs Dynamic Building & Maintenance and my dad is his licensed builder. So it’s great to have the strength of that family connection.’

Meanwhile, Adam and Tara are trying to plan a wedding when Tara is not in the midst of planning a new business. ‘We might elope when we holiday in Greece,’ she says with a knowing smile. C

tarasenam.com.au

Too busy to

cook

Hands up if you dread the question, what’s for dinner? Do you stand at the fridge with zero inspiration? Or perhaps you love spending time in the kitchen, but time is somewhat of an elusive beast. Remove the guilt and stress from dinner – or any meal of the day for that matter – with these brilliant services delivering pre-made meals and ready-to-cook meal kits. And best of all, they’re tasty and nutritious.

ACTIVATE FOODS, Erina

Healthy, homemade, ready-prepared meals – aka the Holy Grail for the time-poor. These meals are dietician- and nutritionist-approved, all created in the big open kitchen at their store in Erina. There is a frozen range and a ready-to-eat fresh range from a menu that includes hearty meals such as beef lasagna, Thai chicken curry and a Mexican burrito bowl, as well as family meals such as butter chicken and a classic beef stew. Some meals can be eaten straight from the box, others should be warmed up in the microwave or on the stove. The best bit, you can order when you need – there is no lock-in subscription. Pick-up any time, or order online for home delivery on a Monday.

‘I don’t have to plan meals. I just go to my freezer and pick whatever Activate Foods meal I feel like eating that night. Two to three minutes minutes in the microwave, and it’s done.’

MEALS FOR MUMMAS, West Gosford

Meals for Mummas was designed specifically for mums at all stages, from postpartum and beyond. The menu is based on whole foods principles (as well as Ayurvedic or TCM – traditional Chinese medicine) and caters to all dietary requirements including allergens. Meals are made with organic ingredients, are nutritionist-approved and arrive fresh. Meals may include chickpea coconut curry, Tuscan beef stew with rice or an apple and a delicious wild blueberry crumble with coconut caramel custard for breakfast. The 30-day postpartum package includes 30 days of meals, one-handed snacks (a necessity!) and drinks delivered straight to your door. There is also a new pregnancy menu in the works. Delivery is on Thursdays.

meals4mummas.com.au

TERRIGAL WHOLE FOOD, Erina

Saving your precious time is the mantra for Terrigal Whole Food, which offers fresh-made meals created with whole foods, as well as a low-carb menu and plant-based menu. Choose from dishes such as eight-hour braised beef brisket, coconut-poached chicken salad and vegan nasi goreng, with small and large portion sizes. There’s also a kid’s menu – mac and cheese, crumbed chicken and mash, and pasta and meatballs. You can order for fresh delivery twice a week or freeze the meals to enjoy later or pick it up from their café at the Impact Centre, Erina.

terrigalwholefood.com.au

THYMELY MEAL CO., West Gosford

Convenience is the key at Thymely Meal Co. Mouth-watering meals that can be reheated in the oven in a sous vide bag. The menu changes on a regular basis but you can expect heart-warming dishes such as spinach and ricotta ravioli, classic favourites such as bangers and mash, and light and wholesome options such as sesame chilli chicken salad. Servings are generally for two. Delivery is Tuesdays or you can pick up in store.

thymelyfoodco.com.au

“Meals for mummas not only kept me nourished, but really made my postpartum experience and transition to motherhood so much easier.”

THE GOOD FARM, online

Proud supporters of regenerative farming, The Good Farm’s pre-made meals are free of preservatives, additives and gluten-free. They’re serious about keeping it natural, with food that is wholesome and filled with goodness. The menu may include the likes of Moroccan lamb; steak and ale pie; organic chicken cacciatore; and a range of curry pastes and sauces.

thegoodfarmshop.com

Meals for Mummas

The Good Farm

THE WHOLE BOWL CO., online

This meal service was created for new mums, designed to support postpartum, recovery, grief and every stressful situation in between. Food is delivered frozen and is mostly based on wholefoods, locally sourced and organic. The menu may include dishes such as organic beef lasagne; slow cooked vegetable ragu; free-range chicken and veggie pie; vegetable and red lentil soup; and apple and berry crumble. thewholebowlco.com.au

FEEST, online

This plant-based meal service has a strong focus on ethical and sustainable foods. The menu is packed full of wholesome and delicious meals for vegetarians and vegans. From the weekly changing menu, you may find Spanish paella, a spiced tray bake, mushroom stroganoff, vegan sausage rolls, and sweet treats such as cinnamon donut bliss balls and peanut butter fudge brownies. Main meals can be ordered in different sizes to suit your needs. Deliveries are fulfilled on Fridays and you can make a one-off order or join the subscription service. feest.com.au

CHEFS ON WHEELS, online

As close as you can get to a private chef, this meal service offers restaurant quality meals in a wide range of cuisines. You can order gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free and choose between one and four portions. The menu might include Sicilian meatballs in tomato and basil sugo; shepherd’s pie with root vegetable mash; French butter croissants; chicken tortellini boscaiola with mushroom and bacon; or pork and fennel sausage rolls. And there’s a special junior chef on wheels menu featuring simple and nutritious dishes such as butter chicken and rice, pumpkin mac and cheese, and loaded veggie spag bol. Delivery to Central Coast is made Monday, Tuesday and Saturday. chefsonwheels.com.au

THE DINNER LADIES, online

Healthy meals made fresh and snap frozen without any added preservatives, colours or stabilisers. You have the option of no prep, some prep and microwaveable. The tasty menu includes lamb and haloumi burger patties; Peking duck pancake kit; herb-crumbed fish fillets; Bao buns with slow cooked hoisin pork or marinated chicken thighs with miso-maple butter. Priced from $9.

Ready to cook

HARRIS FARM

Did you know that Harris Farm has a Ready to Cook meal service? Browse the weekly menu on their website, which features a range of meals across different cuisines that feed four to six people. Think easy and flavoursome meals such as teriyaki chicken, Mexican beef enchiladas, garlic and chilli prawn linguine, and haloumi and roasted vegetable salad. The staff at Harris Farm will hand-pick all the ingredients and deliver it to you with a digital step-by-step recipe. Voila! Dinner is sorted.

harrisfarm.com.au

MARLEY SPOON

Marley Spoon is a subscription service that delivers meal kits that feed two to four people. Choose from more than 70 recipes from different categories – for example, family favourites, low calorie and vegetarian – and the ingredients are delivered to you on Fridays. This is a cook-it-yourself option but it’s made easy because all the ingredients come in the right portions. Choose from two to six meals per week.

marleyspoon.com.au

HELLO FRESH

Hello Fresh is another meal-kit subscription service with a range of recipes from classic to vegetarian to carb smart and protein rich that feed two to six people. Choose whether you’d like three, four or five recipes per week and the ingredient boxes are delivered to you, all ready for cooking.

hellofresh.com.au

NB All menus and delivery days are subject to change.

The Whole Bowl Co.

JESSICA KIRKNESS, a GODA, grew up in a house with all the lights on.

After sitting for many hours at her computer, Jessica takes up pen and paper and leaves her tiny office overlooking the water. Later, calmed and inspired after a long walk, she will sit by the lake and write.

Last year, she and her husband James Harding, left the lower north shore and made their home at Toowoon Bay just 150 metres from the beach. ‘It’s a most peaceful place,’ says the 34-year-old teacher who, in 2019, received her PhD in the field of Life Writing and Deaf Studies.

Jessica is a GODA (a grandchild of deaf adults); her debut book The House With All The Lights On came out last July. It tells the story of her much-loved grandparents who grew up deaf in a hearing world where, incredibly, sign language was banned for much of the 20th century.

In her book, she visits the couple’s old UK schools and other family landmarks discovering how terribly their deafness had been misunderstood.

‘In the past, deaf children were often caned, called savages and had their hands bound,’ says Jessica, whose grandparents were always signing to each other. ‘I’d learned the rudiments when I was young but never qualified in Auslan (Australian Sign Language) until I was 25.’

It wasn’t until 1987 that linguists declared it to be a complete natural language. But you can’t hold conversations in the dark, hence her book’s title.

‘Deaf culture is very visual,’ she adds, ‘and signing is often called ‘the language of light’.

After arriving from Birmingham, her grandparents lived in a granny flat at the Kirkness family home in Sydney’s north-west.

‘Here, they remarkably discovered a strong social network within the deaf community and were always having parties in the garden,’ recalls Jessica, who still mourns the death of her grandfather in 2019.

‘He was a really visual person with a soft and giving character.’

Part of the book also highlights the lack of cultural awareness about deafness and people’s clumsy, ignorant reactions when initially meeting her grandparents.

The House With All The Lights On is an engaging read – both a memoir and a love letter to those closest to Jessica’s heart. C

Jessica currently teaches non-fiction writing at Macquarie University and moderated the ‘Speaking Up, Staying Strong’ session at the Central Coast’s 2024 Words on the Waves Writers’ Festival, celebrating words and ideas.

WORDS SUZY JARRATT

COAST LIVING

An award-winning house built against all the odds.

hen passers-by admire the elegant yet commanding fortress-like home that sits at the southern end of Pearl Beach, they could never imagine the monumental hurdles that were overcome to bring it into existence.

‘It’s impossible to talk about this magnificent home without acknowledging the extreme challenges it represented,’ admits local builder Kane Harrison of Evolving Construction, who has been building high-end custom homes for more than 27 years. Not only was construction of the four-bedroom, four-bathroom ironbark-clad home a lengthy process spanning the entire Covid-19 pandemic, it almost never saw the light of day.

‘We had a worldwide pandemic, expatriate owners living overseas with limited physical presence, material shortages, extreme material cost escalations, construction site shutdowns and national and international lockdowns just to name a few,’ says Kane who took matters into his own hands to get the project off the ground. ‘As they say, necessity is the mother of invention.’

From its rooftop patio looking out over the pristine Broken Bay to its saw- and wire-brushed timber cladding, every element of the magnificent new-build home is crafted with thought, care

As you approach the house, its stepped roofs with their crisp straight lines immediately catch your attention. The Japanese charred timber detailing against recessed highlight

LEFT A magnificent rooftop terrace offers uninterrupted, sweeping vistas over Broken Bay.

BELOW The elegant yet commanding home is clad in saw- and wire-brushed timber.

WORDS SHERIDEN RHODES

PHOTOS CLIXAR VISUAL

ABOVE LEFT Hand-stained French oak floorboards are one of the owner’s favourite features.

LEFT An internal courtyard’s soaring walls in charred and sawn timber evokes a feeling of protection.

TOP RIGHT Views of Broken Bay, bush or Green Point Creek are visible at every turn.

BOTTOM RIGHT Steps framed by native landscaping lead to a charred, oversized timber entrance gate.

windows is another standout feature. Incredibly, all screening, columns, gates, fireplace and some cladding timbers were burnt onsite using this centuries-old tradition which not only lends the wood a striking black aesthetic but protects against fire, rot and termites.

As you step through the native landscaped entrance, your eye is drawn to a three-level timber staircase and charred oversized timber entrance gate. Beyond, a magnificent internal courtyard beckons you in. Lined in charred and sawn timber, the soaring courtyard walls invoke a feeling of protection and embrace. Craftmanship is evident at every turn – from the secret fixed cladding boards, perfectly aligned decking and screws and oversized sliding doors that disappear into wall cavities to the vast single pane glass windows that allow natural light to flood the home.

Internal spaces include beautifully appointed bedrooms, bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling stone tiles, soaring ceilings that reach seven metres high, and oversized glazing walls with vistas of the ocean, bush and Green Point Creek that meanders through the property.

High-end finishes and intricacies include leathered granite benchtops in the kitchen, a butler’s pantry, bathrooms, laundry and a charred timber fireplace with matching charred timber screening on the external decks. There’s a striking skylight over a two-storey kitchen void and a timber staircase that wraps effortlessly throughout the three levels. The wide French oak flooring with hand-applied stain, highlighting its one-of-a-kind sawn texture, is one of the owner’s favourite features.

Kane says the project tested the absolute fabric of Evolving Construction. ‘Collectively we rose to the challenge and not only overcame but succeeded in building what we believe is one of the most well-constructed, finely detailed homes in Australia and beyond.’

‘With nine-metre-door openings, the house is very open and airy. When opened fully it brings the natural environment in – birds even fly through the home,’ says Kane. ‘It has a beautiful, calming feel.’

And it seems Kane and the fortunate owners who use the property as their private holiday home are not the only ones who think so. The house has taken out multiple awards including the HIA-CSR Hunter Home of the Year and the HIA National Home of the Year award last year. C

TRADE SUPPLIERS

Evolving Construction

Osmond McLeod Architects

Site Design Studios

Instyle Tiles

All Ways Plumbing

Taylor Made Solutions

Brad Graf Concreting

Connected Electrical

AVS windows and doors

Roofing

Principal Roofing

Air conditioning Peregrine Aircon

Plastering

Painting

Blinds

Stairs

Stone bench tops

Garage Door

RMD Plasterboard

Brad Sleemo Painting

Premier Shades

All Wood Stairs

All Stone and Glass

JA Garage Doors and Openers

Material supplies Dahlsens, Hurford Wholesale, Avoca Lighting, Harvey Norman

Commercial

DESIGNmatters with Xanthe Highfield

The move away from engineered stone benchtops

Australia's reliance on engineered stone for kitchen benchtops has been a staple in countless households. Now, with the nationwide ban on engineered stone set to take effect in July because of the high rates of silicosis and silica-related diseases among engineered stone workers, homeowners are faced with the task of exploring alternative materials for their dream homes.

We have always loved exploring alternative materials that not only align with the character of the home but also meet functional requirements. The way someone lives, what is important to them, and their style drivers can often be seen in the material they choose for benchtops.

Natural Stone

Where panoramic ocean views demand an equally breathtaking material inside the home, natural stone emerges as a frontrunner. From durable granite to exquisite marble, natural stone exudes timeless elegance and unparalleled beauty. A love of patina and

a respect for the natural aging process need to be part of your expectations when selecting a natural stone and it’s important to note that natural stone requires regular sealing and maintenance to preserve its allure.

Concrete

In homes inspired by Mediterranean architecture and a desire for organic forms, concrete emerges as a versatile and stylish option. Custom-cast concrete countertops offer a unique aesthetic. A high quality sealant is the key to making concrete a functional kitchen benchtop material ensuring longevity and resistance to wear and tear.

Timber

Timber benchtops infuse warmth, texture and a sense of natural charm into any space. Timeless and adaptable, timber countertops evolve gracefully over time, but they do require regular maintenance to withstand daily use.

A natural stone benchtop in a clifftop house by Fabric Architecture.

Projects like the Patanga Cabin showcase the playful allure of terrazzo, a dynamic material known for its vibrant colours and exceptional durability. With fragments of granite and marble embedded within its matrix, terrazzo adds a touch of whimsy to any kitchen space.

Embracing the future

As Australia bids farewell to engineered stone, homeowners have a unique opportunity to explore a diverse array of materials that not only elevate their living spaces but also prioritise safety, sustainability, and individual expression. At Fabric Architecture, we are committed to guiding our clients through this transition, helping them discover materials that not only meet their practical needs but also inspire creativity and delight for years to come.

fabricarchitecture.com.au

Terrazzo

Custom-cast concrete benchtop in a modern Mediterranean house by Fabric Architecture.

A ‘holiday at home’ GARDEN OASIS

The notion of ‘holiday at home’ has gained a lot of traction in recent years. An escape without the hassle of travel can be very appealing. And, when coupled with a tree change, it pays to do it in style. This Wyee Point property epitomises resort-style living with minimal maintenance. Here’s how the owners went from ordinary to oasis.

Located in a hamlet on the south side of Lake Macquarie, the property was blessed with mature native tree cover and natural bush. Abundant wildlife, from a wide range of birds, a resident community of eastern grey kangaroos, goannas and water dragons, added to the appeal.

Eleven years ago, the owners embarked on their journey, gradually shaping the landscape from a haphazard assortment of trees and shrubs into a cohesive retreat. The existing garden was an eclectic mix of assorted trees and shrubs including jacarandas, palms and lines of nondescript shrubs. The transformation began with the creation of a defined pool area, complete with decking, travertine, fencing and carefully curated landscaping. Capitalising on the gentle slope of the terrain, the pool became the focal point, seamlessly integrated into the surrounding environment. Meandering paths now lead to the water's edge, bordered by a picturesque gravel garden adorned with native and exotic flora and garden art collected on travels around the East Coast.

WORDS PAUL URQUHART

PHOTOS LISA HAYMES

ABOVE The recently renovated pool has views over lawn and bushland. Level changes are disguised by clever planting. BELOW LEFT A tropical theme using palms, bromeliads and other foliage plants blend seamlessly with native trees. BELOW RIGHT Art plays a huge role in adding interest to the stroll garden.

WILDLIFE CORRIDOR

The garden boasts both internal and external spaces, each tailored to accommodate the diverse wildlife that shares the space. Fenced off to protect the house precinct, the rear lawn serves as a sanctuary for kangaroos and the occasional swamp wallaby. Meanwhile, the external garden thrives with tough and resilient roo-proof plants such as succulents and bromeliads. They are arranged in beds around stands of local eucalypts, notably Eucalyptus haemastoma and Sydney red gums (Angophora costata), the latter being one of the most stately of our local gums. Water bowls strategically located around the property provide a refreshing respite for birds and to encourage them to share the garden with the owners.

INTERNAL GARDEN

Designed for both beauty and practicality, the internal garden offers a harmonious balance of low-maintenance features and interesting plantings. A sprawling gravel garden behind the pool creates a pleasant backdrop against verdant foliage, offering a perfect setting for alfresco dining and relaxation. Shaded by tibouchina, tuckeroos and pigeonberry (uranta), with accents of vibrant green lomandra ‘Tanika’, they add a sophistication that belies the simple planting plan. Assorted bromeliads pretty much take care of themselves while the gently swaying lomandra add the quality of movement in a light breeze.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the garden serves a practical purpose, boasting a kitchen garden and orchard incorporated into a poultry run. Lemon, lime, fig, plum and mandarin trees flourish alongside bustling chickens, providing a sustainable source of fresh produce. The chooks clean up any fruit fall – an added bonus. With its seamless blend of natural beauty, functional design, and abundant wildlife, this ‘holiday at home’ retreat offers a sanctuary for the senses. Every corner of this oasis beckons with the promise of relaxation. Embrace the art of leisurely living and discover the joy of a stylish retreat, right in the comfort of your own home. C

RIGHT Narrow paths increase the sense of intrigue in some places.

BOTTOM RIGHT The koi pond is best viewed from above on the deck.

DESTINATIONS

What’s new at the snow?

An alpine coaster, resort redesign and new skate park are the three big changes in the Snowy Mountains this winter.

WORDS JENNIFER ENNION

With a strong skate and surf culture on the Central Coast, it’s no surprise many of us also spend much of our winter hitting the Hume Highway to head to the NSW Snowy Mountains. We have strong connections to Jindabyne, and the ski resorts of Thredbo and Perisher, having worked seasons or enjoyed snow holidays staying with mates or in membership ski lodges. From six hours’ away, we closely watch new businesses open, chairlifts replaced and resort products launched. Here are some of the changes you’ll see this winter.

Thredbo

The biggest development skiers and snowboarders will find at Thredbo this season is the addition of the Alpine Coaster. The yearround, all-weather ride is 1.5 kilometres long and passengers zip down a track that weaves through snow gums at speeds of up to 40km/h. If that sounds too fast for little snow bunnies, don’t worry; passengers can control how fast they travel as they make their way along uphill sections, through a tunnel and over bridges.

Thredbo has also launched new benefit-loaded season passes, which include discounts on Coaster rides, private ski and board lessons, food and drinks, rental equipment, retail gear and backcountry tours.

There will also be three new snowmaking fan guns near Kosciuszko Chairlift, plus new additions to the grooming and terrain park building snowcat fleets.

2025 season. For now, skiers and snowboarders will be able to access Mt. P via the Triple Chair. The Triple will also open earlier on peak days, while there will be alternative access tracks from the chair’s base to Leichhardt. If you’re riding that part of the resort, you can stay there for lunch, too, with temporary food and beverage options for the season.

Other Perisher improvements include digital message signs with live lift wait times to help skiers figure out what areas of the resort they want to play on, and give them the option to ski to other lift stations. That’s in addition to real-time updates on the Perisher app.

of our favourites – The Market Jindabyne – a wholefoods cafe and grocer, has new owners, so be sure to pop in and introduce yourself.

A very welcome development in the community this season is the completion of the redesigned skate park. Overlooking Lake Jindabyne, the skate park is great for days when you need a break from the slopes, or the kids need to burn more energy. The $1.5 million upgrade includes a new half pipe, a mini ramp and a refurbished bowl. C

The 2024 snow season runs from June 8 until approximately October 7.

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• Priority Appointments available every week to eliminate wait time for support

• No Wait List for ASD/ADHD/Cognitive/Giftedness Assessments for all Ages

• Triage Intake Assessment conducted by specially trained clinicians within two days of contact to ensure you receive immediate support and risk assessment and to place you with the most appropriate clinician for maximum benefit.

• Ask for our Strengths Based Intervention focused ADHD Clinical Services Practitioner – Darcy Hill

• Multiple Clinicians available with new extended hours for before and after school/work

• NDIS, WorkCover, CTP, DVA, Health Fund, Medicare rebates and other participants welcome!

• Telehealth available

• Neurofeedback Informed Therapy Available

The slow road … through the outback

Hark back to the romantic era of train travel aboard the legendary Ghan.

WORDS JENNIFER ENNION

TIP: If you’re unstable on your feet, request a cabin that’s in the centre of the train to ensure easy and short disembarkation at stations during the journey.

Black streaks caused by wet-season waterfalls scar the orange walls of Nitmiluk Gorge in the Northern Territory. The sandstone does not soar smoothly out of a glassy Katherine River but appears instead as the haggard bodies of sleeping giants etched in deep wrinkles. The environment is so far removed from that of the Central Coast, it’s easy to let your imagination run away with you. Before long, you’ll be spotting saltwater crocodiles where there are none, as you glide along the water in Aboriginal-owned Nitmiluk National Park. As captivating as Nitmiluk is, it is only one of many impressive stops for passengers of The Ghan, an iconic Australian rail journey.

RIDING THE RAILS

The Ghan Expedition is a 2,979km journey that takes passengers through the centre of Australia, from Darwin to Adelaide. During the four-day trip, the train meanders across red dirt and through empty landscapes, stopping in Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy.

The Ghan is a luxury locomotive, with all-inclusive three-course meals, beverages and off-train excursions. The experience is set to become even more sophisticated with Journey Beyond spending more than $10 million on its rail product over five years. It’s an investment that includes the introduction of the new class Gold Premium carriages, and upgrades to the train’s lounge and restaurant, all while retaining The Ghan’s historical charm. At 95 years old, this railway matriarch has plenty of charm worth saving.

THE EXCURSIONS

A ride on The Ghan is much more than a ride on an iconic rail line. As lovely as it is to watch the outback waking up through your cabin window, or read a book from the communal lounge as the desert zips by, for many the highlights of the journey are the off-train excursions; places you may not make it to otherwise. The boat cruise through the NT’s Nitmiluk Gorge is a popular choice, but so too is South Australia’s opal mining town Coober Pedy, and striking Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, where Champagne is served while you  soak in views of flat-topped mesas. You will also spend a day in Alice Springs,

where you can opt for a comprehensive tour of some of the town’s main attractions: Alice Springs School of the Air for remote students; Alice Springs Reptile Centre to meet thorny devils; and Yubu Napa Art Gallery for Aboriginal art. The best part of your time in Alice will undoubtedly be the starlit dinner at Alice Springs Telegraph Station, where Europeans first settled in the town. Dining among heritage stone buildings as a band plays and passengers dance under the moonlight is one of the reasons people become devout Ghan followers. There is certainly magic in Australia’s heart, and plenty of romance still on its rails. C

The Ghan Expedition runs between April and October. For more, visit journeybeyondrail.com.au

The writer travelled as a guest of Journey Beyond and Tourism NT

WELL BEING

Cold plunging, swim-club style

The ice bath trend is gaining momentum on the Central Coast, but many residents have been reaping the rewards of ‘cold plunges’ for years through their swim clubs. Cold-water swimming is believed to have positive benefits for your body and mind, with proponents reporting improvements in mental health, long-term immunity, and reductions in inflammation and menopausal symptoms. Although the scientific community is playing catch-up with anecdotal evidence, getting outdoors in winter with like-minded people can only be a good thing. Here are a handful of Central Coast swim clubs you can join.

Peninsula Ocean Swimmers

Who: A friendly group of year-round swimmers, who split into groups to swim courses from 500 metres to two kilometres. Members enjoy a coffee together afterwards, and welcome competent swimmers.

Meet: Umina Beach, to the left of the surf club, and Copacabana on Saturday mornings when conditions are suitable.

When: Every day, usually around 7am.

Penninsula Ocean Swimmers

Killcare Frigid Digits

Who: All Frigid Digits are members of Killcare Surf Club and participate in 30-metre and 50-metre races at Putty Beach. There is also a race for kids. The swim, plus a breakfast of homemade soup, or bacon and egg sandwiches, costs $10 every week.

Meet: Putty Beach, the northern end of Killcare.

When: Every Sunday at 9am, between 28 April and the last Sunday in August.

Macs Maniacs

Who: MacMasters Beach Surf Club members, from rookies to seniors and visitors, who meet for a jog or walk to Copacabana before going for a swim. The swim depends on surf conditions; sometimes it’s off the point and back to the beach, around the buoys, or a dip in the ocean bath. They then grab a cuppa or breakfast.

Meet: MacMasters Surf Life Saving Club.

When: Every Sunday at 9am (you must be a surf club member to join).

The Buttercups

Who: A very casual group of swimmers of all ages and abilities who swim across the bay or out to the buoy, some with flippers and snorkels. They swim as a group, so less confident members are not left behind, and warm up with a coffee after.

Meet: Outside the gear shed at Toowoon Bay Surf Club.

When: Daily at 6.30am, 8am (main group) and 9am, with Saturdays getting the largest turn-out.

The Buttercups

Terrigal Ocean Swimmers

Who: An umbrella group of smaller Terrigal-based swim clubs, including the Tremblers, Swimbeciles, Budgie Smugglers, Flying Fins and Sea Slugs.

Meet: Most of the groups meet around Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club and are also passionate about the removal of shark nets and protecting local marine life.

When: The times vary depending on which group you join.

*Keep in mind that these groups are social and meeting times may change. People with heart conditions should also talk to a doctor before taking a cold-water plunge.

© SANDRA HENRI PHOTOGRAPHY

Which fitness routine will keep you motivated?

You know you want to (should) get fitter but you’re not exactly a dedicated fitness fanatic and not sure what type of exercise to choose that you might even stick to.

The first question to ask is what’s your goal? Do you want to lose weight, improve your flexibility, build muscle strength, or need to reduce stress?

What do you enjoy: outdoor activities or are you more motivated in group settings with classes like frenetic Zumba or gentler aqua aerobics? Walking with a group of friends in the mornings is good to keep you motivated and out of bed (warning: you’ll feel guilty if you don’t turn up). The dog will also love you for going walkies every day (but will also make you feel guilty for missing out). Or perhaps a personal trainer will keep you on your toes?

Don’t forget to take your current level of fitness and flexibility into consideration. If you’re a newbie to exercise or your motivation is that you’re recovering from surgery or a medical condition, be gentle on yourself. Opt for low-impact activities such as walks, yoga or tai chi.

If you’re still at a rehab stage, physio can help you return to mobility and strength. It plays a crucial role in recovering from musculoskeletal injuries, orthopaedic surgery, neurological disorders and chronic pain. You can always try out a variety of activities such as swimming, dancing, pickle ball or martial arts to discover what you enjoy. At the risk of stating the obvious, the more you enjoy something, the more likely you are to persevere. Check out gyms and fitness centres that offer trial classes or memberships that allow you to explore different activities before committing. If you enjoyed horse riding when you were young and carefree, think about taking that up again, but beware: horse riding can lead to horse ownership.

Try yoga if your goal is to enhance flexibility, strength and posture. There are a number of different intensities of yoga: Hatha yoga is ideal

for beginners; Vinyasa yoga incorporates a cardiovascular workout; Ashtanga yoga is more vigorous and physically demanding; Bikram yoga is about holding poses to enhance your balance and mental resilience; Kundalini yoga blends physical postures and meditation to focus the inner you; Yin yoga involves holding poses for an extended period, typically three to five minutes. We've just discovered puppy yoga – definitely our favourite!

A low-impact exercise like Pilates emphasises core strength and flexibility. It targets deep stabilising muscles, enhancing postural alignment and muscular balance. It’s particularly helpful in rehabilitation, injury prevention and improving functional movement patterns. You’ll also experience improved coordination, endurance and joint mobility. There are tailored classes to focus on your individual requirements as well as group sessions.

If all that low-impact, take it easy stuff is not for you, gym workouts offer a diverse range of exercises, including cardiovascular training, strength training and functional exercises. And there are classes tailored to individual fitness goals. Cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling or using elliptical machines improve heart health, endurance and calorie burn. Strength training with weights or resistance exercises will build muscle strength, help improve bone density and kick your metabolism.

How much time you have is also a consideration. Don’t start taking golf lessons if you don’t have time to progress to playing 18 holes in your free time.

Whatever you choose, make it fun. And if you experience pain or discomfort, modify your activity or seek guidance from a fitness professional to prevent injury. It's essential to find a balance between challenging yourself and respecting your body's limits ... and having fun doing it. C

COMMUNITIES with heart

CENTRAL COAST COMMUNITIES WITH KIDS AT HEART

If there’s one thing we want to say about the Central Coast community, it has a big heart. That not only makes it a great place to live, but it’s where you’d want to bring up your kids. We took a look at three very different and caring not-for-profit organisations that each help kids and families in very different ways from early childhood through to tertiary training for career skills

Central Coast KIDS IN NEED

Being around 90 km from Sydney as well as from Newcastle is usually a great advantage for Central Coast residents, but perhaps the one big downside is that if you’re a family who needs to take a child to hospital in either of those cities, you don’t qualify for the 100 km distance criteria that allows you to access government assistance for accommodation and travel costs. That’s one of the ways Central Coast Kids in Need has helped over 4,265 Central Coast families with assistance worth more than $5 million over the past 19 years.

‘We can help families cover the cost of staying at Ronald McDonald House,’ says Lorraine Churchill who’s been Secretary to the organisation for 20 years. ‘And for children with chronic illness or disability, whose medicines are not covered by the NDIS, we can help pay their pharmacy bills through our Born to Live program. The demand for our help is ever increasing.’

The children they help often have long-term illnesses such as cancers, are organ transplant recipients, or are premature babies with life threatening health issues. Kids in Need can also help cover the costs of tube feeds and high protein feeds for young people with anorexia, as well as home oxygen and life-saving equipment such as

Lorraine, together with Rhonda Doyle, who’s been the Treasurer for 22 years, and President, Louise Gledden, work alongside 24 volunteers to raise funds to keep the charity running.

‘We couldn’t do it without their help,’ says Lorraine. ‘And the generosity of the community and companies like Bendigo Bank who donated $16,500 to our Born to Live program this year.’

cckin.com.au

Central Coast KIDS DAY OUT

Central Coast Kids Day Out was born out of a really good idea to bring together the various early childhood health and welfare services in one place at a fun, interactive annual event. There are talks, stalls and workshops so families can become better informed on what is locally available for their children’s wellbeing. And to make it fun for the kids too, there are pony rides, face painting, Bluey and her little sister Bingo, Paw Patrol, tasty food stalls and much more.

‘The first three to five years of a child’s life are so important in their future development,’ says Nada Potter one of the event’s founders. ‘And the day is especially useful for parents of children with special difficulties, but also, importantly, parents who just want to be better informed.’

Managing behaviour and anxiety are always popular sessions.

‘Behavioural issues in children tell you something,’ says Nada. ‘ And the parents are taken on the journey too by showing them how to keep children calmer and how distress can be managed.’

ET Australia Secondary College (ETASC)

Speech and developmental milestones are also a big concern for many parents.

‘The early years are crucial in a child’s development,’ says Nada. ‘We work alongside the Department of Education and Training and can put parents in touch with professional services that are available on the Coast.

‘Much of the initiative at Central Coast Kids Day Out is about prevention and early intervention so that our children can grow into kids with a strong sense of self-worth and are able to explore their full potential. Local businesses like Bendigo Bank have helped make the day possible and have been long-time supporters – for 15 years, in fact!’

You’ve just missed the Central Coast Kids Day Out this year but follow them on facebook.com/CCKDO or on instagram.com/ cckidsdayout to keep in touch for the next one.

It’s not all about little kids on the Coast, of course. The later schooling years are equally important in setting high school students up for their transition to careers.

ETASC is an independent, not for profit high school in Gosford for Years 7 to 12.

‘It’s all about providing a safe and supportive learning environment to equip students with the appropriate literacy and numeracy skills to find the right employment or to pursue further study,’ says Tony Mylan the CEO and College Principal. ‘We treat our students as young adults to ready them for life beyond school.’

Part of the approach is that teachers are called by their first names; students don’t wear uniforms; and the small school environment provides more opportunity for individual attention to students. This can range from extra learning support to opportunities for gifted and talented students to pursue their talent by following their academic passions.

Bendigo Bank, very much a community bank with a heart, has provided 12 scholarships to assist disadvantaged students, at a total of $10,000.

‘Every student is guided with an individual career pathway plan and is helped to explore what’s involved in different jobs,’ says Tony. ‘We’re proud that 91 per cent of our 2023 graduates, including students who have not had success at other schools, have gone on to achieve employment or pursue further career-focused study at TAFE or university.’

etaustralia.com

What do a school dropout, a prominent police prosecutor and the head of Coast Shelter have in common? They are all Lee Shearer.

WORDS CATHARINE RETTER

In spite of what became a stellar career, Lee felt aimless at school, was not particularly interested in learning. And she admits to being easily led astray. So how did her upbringing and varied career shape Lee Shearer into such an effective head of one of the most ‘essential’ charities on the Central Coast?

‘As a child, the family lived in Black Hill, a rural community inland from Newcastle, where there were 11 of us in the class. Our ages in that classroom ranged from kindergarten to Year 6,’ she recalls. ‘Then in high school, classes were graded by how smart students were. I was in Class E!’

Lee’s mother was the driving force in the family. ‘She worked in mental health and was away in the Kimberleys working in Indigenous communities for periods of time. But after I left school, my parents decided to buy a hotel in Wandoan in Queensland.’

Lee worked with them in the hotel as a barmaid seven days a week until her parents decided to start what became a number of KFC fast food outlets. Once again, Lee moved with them into their new venture.

‘Then KFC picked me for their future leaders’ program but, coincidentally, the police were recruiting at around the same time and that appealed to me more than a life of serving chicken pieces.’

‘The police force gave me the opportunity to study law and become a police prosecutor. I realised I wanted to become something other than a high school dropout. It took me 10 years part-time until I was able to take the Solicitors Admissions Board exam. I loved being a prosecutor and trying to find justice for people at what was often a low point in their lives.’

What Lee hadn’t counted on was the enormous workload – up to 350 cases on her desk at any one time. Burnout was inevitable.

‘In 2000, when the assistant commissioner offered me a staff role, I welcomed the change.’

Lee rose quickly through the ranks and, by 2004, had become first female officer to head the Newcastle Local Area Command as well as becoming the state’s Northern Region Commander. She was then appointed NSW Police Assistant Commissioner – no small feat for this self-proclaimed ‘soft-boiled egg’ school dropout.

A health crisis was the catalyst for Lee to turn to ‘a quieter life’ and she left the force to open her own consultancy business in leadership training. Her work with clients in the mining sector in turn led to a

role with the State Government in reshaping consumer law and, later, to review safety issues affecting fatalities in the resources and mining sector.

‘Other than for the police force, I have never really chosen my career path,’ says Lee. Her reputation as a problem solver and an ability to look at the big issues no doubt spoke on her behalf.

In 2017, the State Government appointed her as CoordinatorGeneral for the Central Coast to take over planning controls for Gosford CBD that saw approvals for developments over $2 million made a State Government responsibility. The old Mitre 10 site in Mann Street was one Lee identified for potential activation that led to it becoming the new University of Newcastle campus (at last being built in 2024).

She then joined the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council to undertake strategic mapping of Darkinjung land to advise on how it could also be activated. It must have been a bold move for a white, ex-assistant police commissioner during what was then the height of the Black Lives Matter movement.

The State Government again called, and appointed Lee as Administrator of NSW Public Cemeteries to manage the forced merger of public and Catholic trusts as part of an attempt to fix the dilemma of cemeteries running out of burial space. It was a political and religious poisoned challis, with Lee to become its public victim in 2023.

Lee’s misfortune became Coast Shelter’s good fortune when she was convinced to step into the CEO role. It’s here that she has come full circle, working with a committed team of passionate people and helping others who may be at a low point in their lives whether through homelessness, mental health issues or domestic violence.

‘It’s pretty much an essential service,’ says Lee. ‘Our focus is on people in crisis; it’s where we can do the most valuable work, but it has to be sustainable. At the moment we can only support one in three people who come to us for help. We need to be able to do more. Our objective is to help at least two out of three people by 2027. We’ll do it by connecting with more people and potential donors in the community so they understand what Coast Shelter provides and that it is often life-saving help.’

We have a feeling she is just the person to do it. C

If you’d like to help, please go to coastshelter.org.au/donate or contact Coast Shelter at coastshelter.org.au

‘Crises don’t happen 9 to 5. We have caring and capable staff that I’m very proud of.’

– Lee Shearer –

Your weight, your fitness and your overall motivation aren’t separate parts of your body that work in isolation from each other. It’s not for nothing that the old song goes, ‘The thighbone's connected to the hip bone. The hipbone's connected to the backbone. The backbone's connected to the neck bone.’ And we can now add, the gut zone is connected to the brain zone.

That was at the forefront of Keira Pride and Natalie Quilkey’s thinking when they established Hera Performance* with the aim of best helping busy women achieve their personal fitness goals.

Between the two of them, they are degree qualified physiotherapists, sports nutritionists, personal trainers (as well as a mums, an elite level triathlete, a senior firefighter, and did we say ‘amazing multitaskers’?).

‘We understand that everyone’s fitness journey is not a one-sizefits-all,’ says Keira. ‘That’s why we put together a team of accredited fitness and nutrition experts, and why we only design individual plans for our clients.’

‘We also know that some people like to be “hand-held” and regularly mentored and motivated in order to stay on track for their fitness journey,’ adds Natalie. ‘We want to be there for those people,

A no-timetable, no-diet, fitness solution for busy women

from creating one-to-one plans, to checking in and reviewing their progress, offering support and advice.’

Their fitness and meals plan are tailored to your health and stage of life, and are designed to get you off the dieting merry-go-round. You’ll also get tips around breathing, core connection and how to integrate these into your training.

When you join all the dots that Keira and Natalie provide, you find yourself creating long-term habits as well as being equipped with the right information to maintain those achievements.

And perhaps best of all, for each of us with busy lives, you don’t need to go to a gym or fitness centre. In this digital age, it can all be done from the comfort of your home at times that suit you. All you need is the app. Your coach comes via What’sApp. You also get access to a gym and home-training video library as well as a Facebook community of like-minded busy women to share goals, inspirations and more.

At Hera Performance, Keira and Natalie have your back … and all your other connected parts to get you fit, how ever busy you may be. C

*In Ancient Greece, Hera was the queen of the Olympian gods. She was also worshipped as the protector of women in childbirth. heraperformance.com.au

KARLA DICKENS EMBRACING SHADOWS

Gosford Regional Gallery & Edogawa Commemorative Garden

MAIN GALLERY: Karla Dickens: Embracing Shadows 22 June - 11 August 2024

Opening and Community Day 11am, 22 June 2024

The Makers Studio Central Coast: Dress Code Behind the Seams 6 July - 11 August 2024

Gosford Art Prize 2024 24 August - 20 October 2024

36 Webb Street, East Gosford, New South Wales, 2250 www.gosfordregionalgallery.com gallery@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

02 4304 7550

Open 9:30am - 4pm daily

The gallery is open all year round with the exception of Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day and Good Friday.

Installation 2023, Courtesy of the artist Karla Dickens, STATION Gallery and Campbelltown Arts Centre

COAST VIBES

KARLA DICKENS

BELOW

Karla Dickens is instantly recognisable as the subject of the 2023 Archibald Prize-winning portrait. But much more than this, she is an extraordinary multi-media artist and is exhibiting at the Gosford Regional Gallery this winter.

The 56-year-old Wiradjuri artist is known for her often provocative works that reflect Australian culture – sometimes playful and whimsical, sometimes bristling with rage, always thought-provoking.

Since the age of five, Karla has been putting together scraps of fabrics, paper and found objects into collages and sculptures –cowbells, horse harnesses, feathers, fishing lures, rusted chains and wrought iron.

Her grandfather, a quiet German man, started her on her journey to re-use found materials. He worked in an iron foundry and loved objects that others had thrown away, and then fixing them.

‘The life stories my grandparents shared often come through in my work and live in my memories and blood. I don’t set out to make political statements,’ Karla says. ‘But my work reflects that I am a single mother, a lesbian, a First Nation’s woman, and through my art I’ve grown and learnt to accept what I am and who I want to be.’

Although she did well at primary school – excelling in maths and art and becoming school captain – Karla’s teen years were rebellious. What proved to be her saviour was enrolling in the National Art School at 22, where one of her teachers was the late Roy Jackson.

‘Roy was not only a practising painter but also had a strong spiritual practice. He would speak to the process of art as life, being brave, surrendering and working through doubts and having confidence with the paintbrush to push yourself and to be honest,’ says Karla. ‘I found my complete obsession there. I stayed as late as I was allowed. My art is my safe space to reflect, speaking with a visual language to work through sometimes difficult truths.’

In 2007, Karla moved to Goonellabah with her daughter, on Bundjalung Country near Lismore. The region has been hit by fires and flood in recent years, devasting her community. Blak Douglas’s painting of Karla, Moby Dickens, in the Archibald Prize, depicted her knee-deep in flood waters, carrying two buckets.

‘The painting is a grumpy whale in muddy water and his painting not only has an incredible likeness to me and my mood,’ says Karla with a smile, ‘but this killer work pays homage to each and every person who has found themselves knee-deep in mud, physically, emotionally, mentally and financially.’

Karla has had over 20 exhibitions since graduating in 1993. Her artwork has been exhibited in the 22nd Biennale of Sydney and is held in the Art Gallery of New South Wales collection.

‘My exhibition, “Embracing Dark Secrets” at the Gosford Regional Gallery is a reflection of who I am. Art is my mirror, my teacher, a painful wrestling partner, my social link to the world and my culture. Art can make me sleep like a baby or keep me up all night!’ C

‘Embracing Dark Shadows’ at the Gosford Regional Gallery, 22 June to 11 August. Opens Saturday 22 June from 11 am with a community day and events.

RIGHT Blak Douglas’s Archibald Prize painting of Karla, titled Moby Dickens.

Some of Karla's multi-media work on display.

OUT & ABOUT

TASTE OF TOUKLEY, 3 June

Toukley Village Green will be abuzz on the long weekend with foodies and families. Local restaurants will come together for the Taste of Toukley festival to offer festival-goers tasting boxes to showcase their menus. There will also be free family activities including live entertainment, a petting zoo, face painting and roving performers.

lovecentralcoast.com

CENTRAL COAST HARVEST FESTIVAL, 8-9 June

This annual winter celebration of all things food is a must on everyone’s calendar. Over the long weekend, the hinterland hums with a jam-packed schedule that includes fresh food and country markets, pick-your-own fruit and veggie experiences, bush tucker tours and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore and support our local rural communities and heritage villages such as Peats Ridge, Somersby and Yarramalong. Key events include Glenworth Grazing Food and Wine Festival at Glenworth Valley, farm tours of Grace Springs Farm in Kulnura, breakfast with the alpacas at Iris Lodge in Jilliby and pickyour-own sunflowers at The Bloom Barn in Peat’s Ridge. lovecentralcoast.com/harvestfestivalv

THE SNOW QUEEN, VICTORIAN STATE BALLET,

Laycock Street Community Theatre, 8 June

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy tale, the enduring ballet portrays the heart-warming story of Gerda’s struggle against the evil Snow Queen in a production that has magical imagery, stunning costumes, music and icy lighting.

Bookings at ccclaycock.sales.ticketsearch.com

Women of Song

Presented in association with Musica Viva Australia

Friday 30 August

Listen in as three First Nations women share songs and stories in an intimate celebration of Indigenous culture.

CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

, Laycock Street Community Theatre, 9 July

Willy Wonka is opening the gates to his mysterious factory to let you embark on a journey through a world of pure imagination with chocolate waterfalls, nutty squirrels and the great glass elevator, all revealed by the curious Ooompa-Loompas. Features songs including Candy Man, Oompa Loompa Song, and Pure Imagination

Book your golden ticket at ccclaycock.sales.ticketsearch.com

GIN AND JAZZ

, Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, 27 July

There’s no other pairing quite like gin and jazz. Relish the two at Avoca Beach Picture Theatre with a free tasting by Distillery Botanica followed by a night of soulful sounds with The Natalie Claire Jazz Band. You’ll hear classics by Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone and Frank Sinatra, enjoyed with jazz-inspired cocktails.

avocabeachtheatre.com.au

5 LANDS WALK, 22 June

The 10-kilometre 5 Lands Walk has become a winter rite of passage for thousands of locals and visitors alike. Linking the five villages of MacMasters Beach, Copacabana, Avoca, North Avoca and Terrigal, this coastal walk is held to connect people to people and people to place and pays homage to the whale –a totem of the Darkinjung people. As well as the main event, there are ocean tours and whale watching, arts and cultural displays such as traditional weaving and dance, live music in all five villages, and family friendly activities.

5landswalk.com.au

CENTRAL COAST WEDDING TRAIL, 28 July

Wedding season is upon us – and this wedding trail is the path to wedded bliss (or at least a fabulous wedding to remember). Hosted by Central Coast Weddings and supported by Everlong Events, the self-guided trail connects 12 different venues, from The Olive Grove at The Quarters, Forresters Beach, to The Stables at Somersby. Map out your day to browse the huge collection of vendors, such as cake makers, photographers and florists. All the happy couples attending the free event will be given a map to follow with bonus coastal and hinterland scenery along the way.

centralcoastweddings.com.au

COMEDY AT THE ART HOUSE

, various dates in June, July,

August

Beat the winter blues with a night of belly laughs at The Art House, Wyong. Kick it off with the Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase on 13 June, which will feature some of the renowned festival’s hottest acts and emerging talent. Awardwinning funny man Wil Anderson will be in the house on 22  June with his show Wilegitimate. Much-loved comedian and TV presenter Peter Helliar brings his new show Pete Helliar Gives Zero Flip on 19 July. You can also join Myf and Zan for Bang on Line, their smash hit Double J podcast on stage, 27 July. And Mel Buttle – everyone’s favourite mum on TikTok – performs Not Here To Put Socks On Centipedes on 2 August.

thearthousewyong.com.au

COAST FAMILIES

EXPLORE THE CREATIVE TALENTS IN ALL KIDS

WHEN YOU’RE KEEN TO GET THE KIDS’ CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING, OUR DYNAMIC COASTLINE OFFERS ABUNDANT OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES TO GET THEIR HANDS DIRTY – AND THEIR MINDS BUZZING.

WORDS JULIE WRIGHT

CENTRAL COAST CONSERVATORIUM OF MUSIC

The transformative power of music has many benefits for children, and remarkably so for under-sevens, enriching their minds, and igniting their development. The Central Coast Conservatorium of Music has inspired, explored and developed musical minds on the Coast for decades – and kids are no exception.

Their children’s music program caters for babies to big kids, offering aspiring musicians the chance to sing, dance and wiggle their way through a musical session. Classes are split into stages, depending on age, and cover everything from lullabies for babies, storytelling for toddlers, to reading and writing music and learning instruments for primary school-aged children and high school teens.

The Central Coast Conservatorium of Music offers a truly accessible way to introduce kids to the vibrant world of music – from any age.

centralcoastconservatorium.com.au

LUNA & CO

There’s kids’ craft and then there is kids’ craft – and Luna & Co is home to some truly epic kids’ crafting activities. Located at Niagara Park, Luna & Co allows little ones to embark on a journey of artistic exploration during their kids-only workshops. Your tiny artists will feel pride and joy as they dive into five craft activities during these half-day workshops, doing everything from macrame to sculpting, using air-dry clay.

Amid the crafting excitement, kids will also nibble their way through cookie decorating for morning tea and a pizza lunch. A match-made in heaven for your junior craft experts!

lunaandcodesigns.com

PAINTING FOR KIDS WITH ALI MARIE

From the time we can pick up a pencil or crayon, the urge to draw, paint or colour is in all of us. If you’re looking to nourish your petite Picasso's skills, why not consider an art class where their imagination can run wild?

There are a few creative classes across the Coast but one of our best picks is the Kookaburra Drawing Class with Woy Woy creative Ali Marie. She offers painting classes for all ages but in her familyfriendly workshops, your little ones will learn how to draw and paint a beautiful kookaburra.

Marie fondly says “the collective noun for kookaburras is a riot” – and that's exactly the experience you’ll get at this fun-filled workshop.

Keep an eye on Ali Marie’s social channels – @byalimarie – for classes and booking information.

CENTRAL COAST LIBRARIES

Libraries across the Coast are a haven for creativity and fun, particularly for young ones. It’s worth keeping an eye on your local library’s schedule to see what free and fun activities they have coming up.

Many libraries have children’s spaces tucked away, where kids can flick through the pages of their favourite title, while also trying their hand at craft and creative activities.

Our picks include the Toddler Craft Club at Tuggerah Library, held fortnightly on Wednesday from 11am to 11.30am. For the more hands-on, DUPLO Club is held at Gosford Library each Tuesday from 10.30am.

Visit libraries.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au for the full activity line-up.

O’GRADY DRAMA

William Shakespeare said: “all the world’s a stage” and when it comes to kids, theatre performing and the dramatic arts has amazing benefits. It allows self-expression and builds confidence, while encouraging kids’ imagination to flourish.

O’Grady Drama prides itself on delivering drama classes that do everything from building public speaking skills, to promoting teamwork, self-worth, and conversation abilities. Taking one of their classes is so much more than learning to perform – it's an uplifting experience for kids of all ages.

With five locations across the Coast at Terrigal, Umina, Erina, Kanwal, and Berkeley Vale, it's easy to find a location close to home, and start your child’s dramatic journey.

ogradydrama.com.au

That accolade is quite an honour given all 35 koalas at the Australian Reptile Park are among everyone’s favourite animals! We think he may even be the favourite among the koalas themselves.

Albert gets on well with all the joeys as well as the adult koalas. The keepers all love him.

We know visitors love him. And his best friend, Wilbur the wombat joey, thinks he’s extra special too.

Albert won keepers’ hearts when he first needed rescuing after his mum couldn’t look after him.

‘He looked like a wizened little old man,’ says his zookeeper mum, Hayley Shute. ‘Now he’s grown into a strapping, 5 kg one-year-old. He’s very inquisitive, loves jumping from tree to tree to find the freshest eucalyptus leaves, and is always ready for a cuddle with the keepers.’

Look out for him when next you visit.

Globally recognised ECO Destination

The Central Coast is a certified ECO Destination: a world class place to find sustainable, quality nature-based experiences.

When exploring our slice of paradise,kindly observe these simple ‘house rules’:

• Plan ahead for a safe journey

• Tread gently on Country

• Take 3 pieces of litter off the coastlines and waterways #Take3fortheSea

• Refuse single use plastics and dispose of waste correctly

• Respect the local neighbourhood

• Camp smartly and responsibly

• Give local wildlife the grace of space

• Take local stories, wares and produce home

• Leave only footprints

Discover ECO experiences

Image James Vodicka