Region

RELISH IN OUR RELAXED COASTAL LIFESTYLE AND ENJOY THE COUNTLESS EXPERIENCES AND ANNUAL EVENTS THAT MAKE PORT SO SPECIAL.

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Port Macquarie (or "Port" to locals) offers the visitor so many opportunities to share our fabulous lifestyle. Apart from enjoying our relaxed coastal vibe or taking in the breathtaking scenery of our hinterland, there are a myriad of events throughout the year to enjoy. From food, wine and beer festivals, markets, music festivals to major sporting events, there is something for everyone. Port can proudly claim that it has become a food-force to be reckoned with, with many restaurants and cafes truly embracing the locavore tenet. From a sublime dining experience at our one-hatted restaurant to a relaxed coffee, juice or smoothie by the beach, Port Macquarie has it all!

Town Green + Town Square

As the central hub in town, the Town Green and Town Square are popular places to enjoy the waterfront. The area has recently been given a face-lift to enhance the community experience. Sunsets are simply not to be missed from here! Nearby at Town Square, works have also taken shape to provide a more vibrant area with al fresco dining and space to host markets, events and festivals. miss whale watching season from May to November. If speed isn't your thing then get on board their river boat and enjoy a scenic tour up the Hastings River. New to their fleet is the comfortable and spacious two level catamaran ‘Essence’, complete with inside seating, underwater viewing windows, covered top deck and boom net. There is a style of ride to suit everyone, whether it be an exhilarating Ocean Blast, a River Cruise (afternoon, sunset or eco), or maybe a Dolphin Spotting Cruise is more your style. If you want to take control yourself then hire a Jet Ski and zoom around in the 9 hectare dedicated ski park. Book your next function or team building event with them and give your group an experience to remember. (See inside cover)

⟶ Town Beach, photo by Matt Gilligan

Settlement Point Reserve

Located just five minutes drive from Port Macquarie Town Centre it is a great spot to take in the Hastings River. Facilities include picnic tables, BBQs, a playground, lots of parking and a nearby cafe. You can even take the short ferry ride over to the North Shore from here. Dolphins are frequently spotted along the shore as they frolic in the shallows of the river. Be sure to look out for them! #LOUNGE Map ref H3

Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park

(Entry through the historic cemetery) –covering 52 hectares, the Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park preserves an area of natural bushland with 3kms of walking tracks, boardwalks, and a new 600 metre cycleway. Here visitors can wander and enjoy the beauty of the area and its ecosystems. #LOUNGE Map ref J9

Tacking Point

Port Jet Cruise Adventures

Named by Matthew Flinders in July 1802. The lighthouse is the third oldest in the country and has recently been restored. It was built in 1879 to warn ships of the rocks near the shore and was converted to automatic operation in 1919. Apart from the interest of the lighthouse itself, Tacking Point with its elevation above the surrounding coastline offers superb views to both the north and the south – in For an unforgettable experience on the water, Port Jet Cruises has it all. October and November be sure to look out for whales. #LOUNGE Map ref Q18 Experience the wonder of the ocean on board Wave Rider - their 18 passenger 900 horsepower super boat will have you surfing the waves and cruising up and down Port Macquarie’s remarkable coastline or speeding along the stunning Hastings River. Wave Rider is equipped with state of the art equipment and technology. Custom-built for Port Macquarie and the ocean conditions C O A S T L I G HTHOUSE BEACH experienced here, she will provide the most exciting, fast yet smooth comfortable ride for her passengers. Your skilful and knowledgeable skipper will take you on an adventure exploring rugged coastlines, spotting playful dolphins, sea turtles and of course, don’t 11

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Wauchope &Hinterland

Wauchope

(Pronounced war-hope) - 15 minutes west of Port Macquarie. Surrounded by Australia’s most extensive Blackbutt forest, it was here in the mid 1800s that pioneers made the town famous as a timber town. Today, Wauchope is the gateway to the hinterland and has many unique businesses and fabulous boutique shops with friendly old fashioned service. As an RV Friendly town, and the first Motor Cycle Friendly Town in NSW, Wauchope makes for a great stop or a day out.

Hinterland

To the west of Port Macquarie is true paradise, with breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and lush rainforest. The Hinterland is a truly spectacular sight and is popular with bush walkers, four-wheel drive enthusiasts or those just keen to explore. Take time to discover this region with a day trip or two. Perhaps stay overnight in one of the many cottages or B&B’s scattered along the way. We have outlined some trails you may like to try, or you may prefer to make up your own, but whatever you do don’t miss this vast area of natural beauty.

Comboyne

A tranquil place of rolling green pastures, forests, streams and waterfalls located about a 1 hour drive from Port Macquarie. Here you’ll find the Boorganna Nature Reserve, a large remnant of the forest that once covered the whole plateau. There is a fantastic 2.7km walking track that starts at the picnic area where you can see many differing bird species and lush rainforest plants. Allow a few hours for this.While in Comboyne,

⟶ WildNets

you must drive a further 25kms to visit Ellenborough Falls in the Manning Valley - a truly amazing sight as water plunges into a gorge 200m below. There is a viewing platform and a timber walkway for those who would like to walk to the bottom of the falls. Whilst the road is mostly unsealed, it is definitely worth the trip (allow around 45 minutes for the drive from Comboyne). They have two walks, one 500m to the lower falls, and another 700m to the knoll plus there is a Kiosk and picnic facilities which makes it a great lunchtime stop.

Lorne and Kendall

Whilst part of the Camden Haven, these two small towns also form part of the Hinterland. Kendall ‘The Poets Village’ - is a quiet village with a population of 250 people located just off the Pacific Highway, at Kew. Its vibrancy, diversity and charm fuel Kendall’s community spirit and have earned it a reputation as a great place to live and visit. Named after the Australian poet Henry Kendall, it is a growing community, with its famous golf course, craft and antique stores as well as numerous other tourist attractions.

Bago Maze + Wine

Bago is a destination the whole family can enjoy. The award-winning Bago Maze is situated within the wineries picturesque grounds and is open daily from 9.00am. The Maze consists of 2,000 metres of pathways including sunken paths, elevated walkways, bridges, observation towers plus a number of treasure hunt items to keep you entertained throughout the journey. The adventure through the maze takes between 30 minutes to an hour to complete. While out at Bago, be sure to leave time to relax with a wine tasting and a cheese or charcuterie platter while the kids run free. Book maze tickets and platters online at www.bago.com.au (see page 5)

Ricardoes Tomatoes + Strawberries Farm

Free entry at Ricardoes farm opens the gate to a day of family fun and discovery to satisfy all ages, seven days a week. The beautiful open countryside is a breath of fresh air yet is just 10 minutes’ drive north from town, on sealed roads, right beside the M1. Port’s most-awarded tourist

attraction is keenly sought after for its popular pick-your-own strawberries experience from easily accessible vertical frames: seniors stroll the avenues and reach out at arm’s length while, lower down the lattice, tiny tots can too. There’s plenty of grassy space for kids and long-distance travellers to stretch their legs. Berry picking is all under soaring greenhouse cover so wind and rain never matter. Airconditioned CAFE RED is cool in summer, warm in winter, with both table service and takeaways: budget-priced farmfresh brekkie, lunch, snacks, barista coffee and Ricardoes ”world’s best” scones with real cream, lavished with strawberry jam. The shop features the farm’s medal-winning sweet and savoury preserves, take-home vegies and produce, gifts, souvenirs, and novelties. There’s super special bulk buys of Ricardoes delicious Strawberry Jam, ever popular on the home table and always welcomed as a gift. Cafe 7 days, 9am-3pm; free BYO, high chairs, wide entry ramp for wheelchairs, big sealed carpark, clean rest rooms. Farm Mon-Fri 7am- 5pm; Sat-Sun 8am-5pm. (see page 7). Instagram: @ricardoestomatoes

THE HINTERLAND IS TRUE PARADISE, WITH BREATHTAKING SCENERY OF ROLLING HILLS AND LUSH RAINFOREST.

Billabong Zoo: Koala + Wildlife Park

Enjoy a fun-filled day out at the award-winning Billabong Zoo, Port Macquarie. We care for over 200 animals in this friendly 10-acre koala and wildlife park with over 80 species of Australian and exotic animals. Stop by our enclosures and read all about our wonderful wildlife and check out our Zoo Keeper Presentation videos available via QR codes at many of our exhibits. From our koala breeding centre to our big cat enclosures, you’ll discover animals at every turn including Shrek our Monster crocodile. Especially popular for children and adults alike is the kangaroo and wallaby walk through hand-feeding area - Macropod Meadow - free with zoo entry. Children can enjoy the playground and the whole family have access to our picnic areas. Experience memorable personal animal encounters with Koalas, Cheetahs, Red Pandas, Snakes, Meerkats, Little Monkeys and Snow Leopards. Bookings essential. Visited the zoo yesterday? Why not treat your senses to delicious food at The Meeting Point Café, while overlooking our spider monkeys? If you’re coming for a bite to eat, our Café is free entry without visiting the zoo. Check out our Zoo Gift Shop and choose from a wide selection of souvenirs. Billabong Zoo, Billabong Drive, Port Macquarie is open daily 9am-5pm, rain or shine. Book your ticket or personal animal encounter online at billabongzoo.com. au. (See page 21).

⟶ Hastings Hotel

For more information on our region discoverportmacquarie.com.au

Your insider’s guide to all the good stuff.

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↑ Lake Cathie ⟵ Middle Rock, Lake Cathie

Lake Cathie

(Pronounced cat-eye) – Located midway between Port Macquarie and Laurieton, Lake Cathie (when open to the ocean) is centered on a large toddler-friendly saltwater lake and is perfect for young families. With fishing and swimming, picnic tables, BBQ facilities, playground and a new skate park, it is an ideal spot to spend a day. Cathie Beach adjoins the Lake and is a popular swimming beach. There is also a wonderful walking track that takes in both the lake and the ocean.

Bonny Hills

South of Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills boasts some of the best coastal views in the region. It is home to the stunning Rainbow Beach, a huge expanse of white sand that goes on forever. The beach is patrolled during summer and has a fantastic picnic and BBQ area with playground equipment. Not only popular for swimming, Rainbow Beach is also an excellent surfing beach for both body boarders and surfers.

Bonny Hills Garden Centre

⟶ Stockists of the largest range of plants in the Hastings region. The pond water feature sets the scene for a relaxing real life experience of plants, pots, water features, landscape supplies...everything. Upon entering you’ll find spacious, sealed car parking, and wide wheelchair friendly pathways. Or just come and relax with a great cup of coffee and lunch at The Garden Cafe that overlooks the magnificent dam. The menu is extensive, and coaches are welcome. Then continue to browse through the Garden Centre where you will find beautiful ornaments, water features and many fantastic gift ideas in their gift shop.

EST. 1891

A short 30 minute drive from Port Macquarie CBD

WAUCHOPE PORT MACQUARIE In 2018, two local families, The Comans & The Bakers, formed ownership with the aim to restore the heritage hotel to its former glory. The ideas, and dreams of what the pub could be, have led the new owners on a very exciting journey restoring the Royal Hotel in late 2021. Whether it’s enjoying a cold drink in the extensive beer garden, or sitting down for a family meal together, this destination is an easy scenic drive from your accommodation. The Royal Hotel Kew pride themselves on having the highest quality pub food with a focus on handcrafted, fresh, locally sourced produce. Only 30 minutes away from the Port Macquarie CBD, and situated in the quaint country town of Kew, this is a must visit for a truly authentic Aussie pub experience.

THRUMSTER

KEW

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LAURIETON

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Camden Haven

Camden Haven

The collective name given for the communities scattered along the Camden Haven River including Laurieton, North Haven and Dunbogan at the mouth of the river, stretching to Kew, Kendall, Lorne and Comboyne further inland. With cafes and shopping combined with local charm, the Camden Haven is a wonderful place for a day or a week. It is all about water activities and the lake and river provide plenty of opportunity for fishing, boating and walking along the foreshores. Enjoy the peace and quiet on this magnificent river or grab your fishing rod and throw a line in, you’ll certainly attract the attention of some quizzical pelicans!

Laurieton, North Haven and Dunbogan

North Brother Mountain overlooks Laurieton, North Haven and Dunbogan. At the summit (490 metres), in Dooragan National Park, is the North Brother Lookout (accessible via sealed roads), which is not to be missed, offering a superb view over the coastline, the lakes and the mouth of the Camden Haven River. It is one of Australia’s most impressive coastal panoramas. The area is characterised by large stands of rainforest which are rich in native fauna and flora.Take a picnic as they have excellent facilities. Three walks of varying length and difficulty are available if you are feeling energetic. The mountain supports a wide range of vegetation communities, including some of the best examples of old growth blackbutt forest in NSW and pockets of sub-tropical rainforest that provide habitat for gliders, bats and koalas.

Pilot Beach

A fantastic and secluded beach for the kids, as it is naturally protected. It also has excellent BBQ facilities and a playground area with showers to rinse off.

Crowdy Bay National Park

Take the road from Laurieton and head south and you will enter the northern section of Crowdy Bay National Park. This area of parkland was first sighted by Captain Cook in 1770. He saw Aborigines standing on what is now known as Diamond Head and named the promontory Indian Head. In more recent times a man named Ernie Metcalf lived on the headland. He was the subject of ‘The Man on the Headland’ written by Kylie Tennant. He built a hut for Tennant who subsequently gifted it to the park. It was restored in 1980 and is now one of the park’s attractions. Diamond Head itself is quite striking. It rises 113 metres and is edged by the wetlands and heathlands of the coastal plain. The park is ideal for bushwalking, birdwatching, fishing (from the rock platforms you can catch groper, bream, tailor and drummer) and swimming.

W E K

L E T O H L ROY A

⟶ Golfland Kew Country Club ⟶ Glenfern Clubhouse, Thrumster

Glenfern Thrumster

⟶ Live the Lifestyle of Your Dreams at Glenfern. Designed to elevate the over 55s living experience Glenfern offers state-of-the-art amenities and quality homes. The resort style amenities include a swimming pool, lawn bowls, and gym & wellness center providing residents the ease of an active lifestyle. Relaxing is easy with a day spa, cinema, and a café at your fingertips. The designs include two-storey homes boasting views of the natural surrounds and with lifts for future ease of access or single-storey homes featuring open plan living and a large private deck – perfect for entertaining. Discover your new lifestyle today and enjoy the benefits of land lease living; no stamp duty, retain capital gains, no exit fees and no council rates. For more information please call us on 0458 874 849 or visit our website www.hometownaustralia.com.au