Suburb Profile

By Minya Rose | Photography Minya Rose

Yamba

What I love most about Yamba isn’t just the beautiful beaches (although there is a vast array of stunning ones to choose from), and yes, while Yamba on a sunny summers day is glorious, I often find myself just as content in a cafe on a rainy day or as the days turn cooler.

To me, my love for Yamba is its people and the food. The fiercely passionate but relaxed talent the little town offers. From artists, activists, to those who care about the local produce being plated up at their restaurant. The way they passionately believe in creating a better world, and have this incredible local way of supporting each other.

Let’s start with food; I really could wander this town eating until I could roll down the hill on Coldstream Street. There is nothing better after a sunrise walk along the break wall than starting out your morning with coffee and fresh pastries, gourmet produce or acai bowls at a cute, fresh, light filled cafe. Gather, Yum Yum, or the Kiosk at Main are a top few favourites for atmosphere and edible pleasure that fill your soul.

You will find a lot of locals in each, ducking in for a coffee or sharing a morning laugh. At Main beach, you can watch as some dip into the ocean, even in winter. The weekend buzzing with chatter, speedo’s and water droplets as people gather for nippers and local surf events. Lunch options are endless, from burgers and a sneaky margarita at Brgr Spot, or an Acai from Good Days, to fish and chips on the beach. Take your pick at a cafe sprawled onto the pavement, or pack a picnic for a remarkable spot along the Yuraygir National park.

In the evening, you can make your way to Drift for a relaxed wine, craft beer and a pizza from owners who strongly believe in ethical and sustainable farming - using as much local product as possible.

But I have a stand out for dinner, Karrikin. Their motto, creative genius and general relaxed environment is flawless. Be prepared to watch simple ingredients that are grown locally be transformed into unusual combinations while maintaining their fresh taste.

Wednesday farmers markets are filled with smiles, waves and adrenaline rush to get to Ashby Sourdough’s cinnamon scrolls before they sell out. A basket and a reusable cup are definite here. You’re bound to end up with a basket of overflowing home produce. I often do the juggle between the warm vegetable dumplings in one hand and a cinnamon scroll in the other while the tomato’s and avo’s roll around the basket.

Yamba isn’t just about the food though. It’s the river system, the culture, the dolphins, the way the sun falls behind Pippi beach or rises over Main beach. It’s the endless amounts of discovering you can do for yourself, the coastal walks or the more adventurous trails not far from town. It’s becoming friends with locals who may share their top surf spot, it’s respecting the land, and it’s taking in the beauty of this little spot on the North coast.

It’s the activities that stretch past summer, full moon kayak tours, yoga classes at Blanc Space and the opportunity to get your hands messy with a group of friends at The Clay Circle or booking in for a sourdough or pasta class at the Kitchen Table.

I hope that as you discover this town and more people discover the magic; that the village feel remains. That those coming to visit take more in, discover the stories, the people and feel as though Yamba is their home too.

We acknowledge and thank Minya Rose, who generously contributed our Yamba suburb profile content. Minya specialises in documenting projects, experiences, and community initiatives. Her images encapsulate the rawness of a moment in a warm, honest way. We highly recommend viewing her stunning photos and heartfelt stories on Instagram @minyarose. For further information contact Minya on 0401 306 369 or visit www.minyarose.com.au