Coast - the home of holidays issue 03 - Visitors Guide 2021 by ExploreBarringtonCoast

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S TAY W H E R E Y O U L O V E

Love where you stay WITH A WIDE RANGE OF PROPERTIES TO SUIT EVERY NEED AND BUDGET, LET OUR TEAM AT PACIFIC COAST HOLIDAYS MAKE YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY A REALITY

F O R S T E R H O L I D AY R E N TA L S . C O M . A U (02) 6555 2000 65 WHARF ST, FORSTER

Coast 2

the home of holidays

Photo. Jeffrey de Witte

PUBLISHER El Rattray EDITOR Christine Hopkinson GRAPHIC DESIGN Dylan Gaul - Two Minds Creative CONTRIBUTORS Renee Collocott Jeanene Duncan Stevo@thesurfcoach EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES hello@barringtoncoastpublishing.com.au 1300 319 368 ADMINISTRATION & DISTRIBUTION admin@barringtoncoastpublishing.com.au COVER IMAGE 'Seven Mile Dolphins' Photographer James Knight aero.aus Location Seven Mile Beach, NSW

Welcome

Published by Barrington Coast Publishing Pty Ltd ABN 630 115 025 PO Box 58, Pacific Palms, NSW 2428 Stay in touch barringtoncoastpublishing.com.au explorebarringtoncoast explorebarringtoncoast

he challenges ushered in at the beginning of 2020 have served to remind us all of the importance of our health and wellbeing, friends and family, community and connection. Significantly, as certain freedoms have been curtailed, we have come to value even more the precious gifts of the natural world on our doorstep, and the opportunity for renewal

and restoration that simple holidays with our loved ones have always provided. We invite you to share more of those moments in our beautiful coastal towns and villages, and to rediscover the wonderful benefits of escaping to paradise, so close to home.

The team @ Barrington Coast Publishing Our region observes all government COVID-Safe protocols. For more information turn to Page 82.

STEPHEN BROMHEAD MP Welcome to the Barrington Coast, a destination that can only be described as a little slice of heaven. Internationally renowned as Australia’s leading water playground, our region boasts a stunning coastline, neighboured by picturesque lakes and waterfalls. Beyond rich natural beauty, our district is also proud to grow great fresh local produce, which feeds into amazing food trails, fine wines and craft beer. Whether you’re here for a short stay or an extended break, I hope you’re able to enjoy all our region has to offer and leave with an abundance of memories to share.

COPYRIGHT © Barrington Coast Publishing Pty Ltd 2021 Reproduction in whole or part of content within this publication without written permission, including editorial, photography, design, maps, graphic art and design of advertisements by Barrington Coast Publishing, is strictly prohibited. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. DISCLAIMER The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher and Barrington Coast Publishing. Information provided by contributors, advertisers, interviewees and all source material was understood to be correct at the time of publication. Barrington Coast Publishing does not warranty the accuracy of information contained within this publication, nor any liability that may arise from any reliance on information provided within this publication.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT of COUNTRY We acknowledge the Worimi, Gringi and Biripi people who are the Traditional Owners of this land, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise, and are committed to honouring, all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continuing cultural and spiritual connection to the land, waters and seas. Coast 3

the home of holidays

02 6554 0291

tiona.com.au

stay@ tiona.com.au

@tiona_nsw

4451 The Lakes Way, Pacific Palms (15 minutes south of Forster) Coast 4

the home of holidays

Coast 5

the home of holidays

EXPLORE Discover the breadth of this special region – the towns and villages, attractions, fantastic day trips and TOP 10 Must-Do activities

Contents rawedgephotography.com.au

Meet some of the great people making a difference in our community through business innovation, contribution, education and inspiration!

From yoga to rejuvenating retreats, find the perfect place to relax and recharge

WELLNESS

UNIQUE LOCALS

junglesurfsupschool.com.au

trishafitzpatrick.com.au

Photo. Plunge Forster Café

Where to find the finest seafood and fresh farm-to-fork produce – delicious dining, artisan edibles, local beer and coffee … and more!

Creative and collaborative … check out our talented artists of all ages, the vibrant and burgeoning art scene here, and the innovators making it all happen

ART!

EAT & DRINK

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the home of holidays

maps

09 11 13 17 18

Photo. Kirk Owers

yogaheartandhealing.com.au

70 LIFESTYLE

SPECIAL OCCASIONS

From rural retreats to waterfront apartments and beach houses - find out why our lifestyle is an enviable one for a seachange, holidays, and relaxing retirement living

Pretty as a picture, the region boasts spectacular settings, glorious backdrops and a vast choice of venues for an unforgettable event

Photo. Reflections Seal Rocks

CAMPING & HOLIDAY PARKS The great outdoors beckons – fantastic locations for camping, caravanning, glamping and adventuring guarantee a dream getaway

Photo. Shane Chalker

National Parks, wildlife and wonder walking trails, and experiences unique to this beautiful region

Vintage & retro, classic and collectible, unique and bespoke, contemporary and chic, useful and practical, cool and coastal, artistic and aquatic …

NATURE

SHOPPING

DOGS ON HOLIDAY We’re a welcoming bunch when it comes to visiting pooches – from beach and park adventures to puppy pampering and dog-friendly dining

PLAY

What’s not to LOVE about the abundant and diverse activities and attractions here? Like whale watching!

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the home of holidays

Photo. Uptown Country Mens & Ladies Fashion Gloucester

Dark Point Aboriginal Place - Myall Lakes National Park Photo. Leon.wong7

Coast 8 Coast 8

the home of holidays the home of holidays

BYRON BAY Coffs Harbour Broken Hill

Kempsey Port Macquarie

FORSTER-TUNCURRY

Hunter Valley

Port Stephens Newcastle

SYDNEY

Blue Mountains Canberra

Batemans Bay Sapphire Coast

Drive

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an easy 2.5 hoursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; drive north on the M1 from Sydney to Tea Gardens, at the southernmost tip of the Barrington Coast region. Add another hour and you will arrive at coastal Pacific Palms, via the scenic Lakes Way, or in Forster-Tuncurry via the M1/Pacific Highway.

Fly

FlyPelican operates flights up to six times weekly from Sydney Airport T2 to Taree, and flights from Newcastle once a week. The airline has implemented a number of COVID-Safe measures to protect crew and staff both at the airport and onboard the aircraft. flypelican.com.au

02 4965 0111

Coast 9 Coast 9

Rail

NSW Trainlink services run between Sydney and Newcastle, with connecting coaches from Newcastle to Tuncurry. The XPT Train service from Sydney stops at Taree and Gloucester. transportnsw.info/regional

13 22 32

Bus

Busways provides daily services from Newcastle to several Barrington Coast towns, including daily stops at Tiona Holiday Park in Pacific Palms. Greyhound Australia is now operating with a more limited network timetable, but still maintains its Sydney to Taree route. busways.com.au

the home of holidays the home of holidays

greyhound.com.au

R E N TA L S

SALES

HOLIDAYS

BLUEYS BEACH 02 6554 0500 stay@thepalms.com.au SMITHS LAKE 02 6554 4800 sales@thepalms.com.au

pacificpalmsholidays.com.au Coast 10

the home of holidays

map

MINIMBAH NATURE RESERVE

TUNCURRY BEACH

TUNCURRY

FORSTER MAIN BEACH BENNETTS HEAD LOOKOUT CLUB FORSTER

ONE MILE BEACH

FORSTER BURGESS BEACH

STOCKLANDS SHOPPING CENTRE

WALLIS ISLAND NATURE RESERVE

CAPE HAWKE LOOKOUT

JANIES CORNER COOMBA PARK

w Bay

GREEN POINT

Road

The

L ak

es W

Shallo

BOOTI BOOTI NATIONAL PARK

SEVEN MILE BEACH

WALLIS LAKE

WHOOTA WHOOT LOOKOUT oa

TIONA

WALLINGAT NATIONAL PARK

RUINS BOOTI BOOTI NATIONAL PARK ELIZABETH BEACH

Thomas Road

CHARLOTTE BAY

WALLINGAT STATE FOREST

BOOMERANG BEACH BLUEYS BEACH VILLAGE

BLUEYS BEACH

PACIFIC PALMS

ga rC re e kR oa d

SMITHS LAKE BUNGWAHL SMITHS LAKE

CELLITO BEACH SANDBAR

MYALL LAKES NATIONAL PARK Sea

l Ro

cks

NUMBER ONE BEACH BOAT BEACH SEAL ROCKS

S RD

NERANIE LAKE

N ks

R al

k oc

E OV

C EA

SUGARLOAF POINT LIGHTHOUSE LIGHTHOUSE BEACH TREACHERY BEACH

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the home of holidays

COPYRIGHT Â©Barrington Coast Publishing Pty Ltd 2021. Maps are provided as a guide only and are not to scale. No part of these maps may be reproduced, copied or altered without written permission of the publisher.

junglesurfsupschool.com.au

Photo. Jack Hubbard

FORSTER-TUNCURRY

Enjoy family fun in the sun at Forster Main Beach and One Mile Beach, which are both patrolled through summer. Ride the sand dunes at the north end of dog-friendly One Mile Beach for heaps of family fun

2 3

is a self-service vending machine – open 24

Catch some waves at Pebbly Beach or Tuncurry Break wall – a surfer’s paradise!

Drop a line … Wallis Lake, in particular, is a fisho’s favourite, brimming with whiting, tailor and bream Sample delicious local oysters – the Great Lakes region is famous for them – also known as Sydney Rock Oysters – pop into Monin Seafood Tuncurry or Boatsheds #2 or #3 on Little Street, Forster

See majestic whales up close, (between May and November) and dolphins, on Amaroo’s popular cruises

Water sports galore – snorkel, boat, kayak, aqua bikes. The whole family will enjoy

exploring the amazing natural beauty of Wallis Lake. For all your water rental needs head to Boatshed #1 #2 or #3 at Little Street Forster Bike Ride around the beaches and waterways. Check out the shopping,

Cafés and restaurants, all surrounded by lakes, beaches, parklands and playgrounds of all sizes. Forster Automatic Bike Hire Station hours everyday

Go on a 500m hike (walking trail) through the rainforest of Booti Booti National Park

to Cape Hawke Lookout where you’ll be rewarded with 360° views of the coast from the top of the tower (or take the Bicentennial Coastal Walk) Coast 12

the home of holidays

Stand Up paddleboard on the beautiful Wallis Lake. Grab a lesson in a safe, supportive environment with Jungle Surf SUP school

Visit the local Coastal Brewery or Little Street Roasters Coffee, or grab an ice cream from one of the parlors in Wharf Street, Forster

3 2 4 5 8

Tuncurry TUNCURRY BEACH

Forster

10 11 12

16 MARINA

19 18 17

SECOND HEAD

21 28

22 13

32 30

24 25

37 39

BENNETTS HEAD LOOKOUT

ONE MILE BEACH

1. Discovery Park Forster 2. Forster Tuncurry Golf Driving Range 3. Racecourse 4. Lumpys Nursery & Gifts 5. Monin Seafood 6. Tuncurry Beach 7. Nine Mile Beach 8. Sporties Tuncurry 9. Tuncurry Bowling Club 10. Cinema 11. Great Lakes Tackle 12. Jungle Surf Clothing 13. BIG4 Great Lakes Holiday Park 14. Hamiltons 15. Marina 16. Reflections Holiday Park Bike hire 17. Forster Yoga Studio 17. Aussie Bush Leather 17. Manning Shoes 17. Yarads Menswear 17. Wombat Bookshop 17. Ice Cream Parlor 17. One Hair & Beauty 17. Saltwater Surf Centre 17. Coasting Homewares 18. Tartt Café 19. Wingman Café 20. Beach Bums Café 21. Second Head 22. Amaroo Cruises 23. Visitor Centre 24. Oyster Bars & Hires Boatsheds 1,2,3 25. Hospital 26. Barclay Oysters 27. Forster Ocean Baths 28. Bicentennial Walking Track 29. Bennetts Head Lookout 30. Club Forster 31. Forster Bowling Club 32. Glam & Co Hair 33. Sand Dune Surfing 34. Pantry Beachside Coffee 35. Snorkel and Surfing 36. Plunge Café 37. Blue Dust Collective Gallery 37. Forster Tuncurry Golf Course 38. Pacific Motel 39. The Coastal Brewing Company 40. The Beauty Room 41. Stockland Forster 42. MidCoast Council Library 43. Burgess Beach 44. The Tanks 45. Barclays Marine 46. BWS Forster Keys 46. Lakesway Bakery 46. No Bull Gournet Meats 47. Pipers Bay Foreshore Reserve 48. Dogs off Leash exercise area 49. Lanis Holiday Park Boat Ramp 50. Cape Hawke Lookout

STOCKLAND SHOPPING CENTRE

BURGESS BEACH

45 49 43 46 50

CAPE HAWKE LOOKOUT

COPYRIGHT ©Barrington Coast Publishing Pty Ltd 2021. Maps are provided as a guide only and are not to scale. No part of these maps may be reproduced, copied or altered without written permission of the publisher.

map

PACIFIC PALMS & SEAL ROCKS

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the home of holidays

Photo. Jeffrey de Witte

dankaimoana

Beach hop to the iconic Blueys, Boomerang and Elizabeth Beaches in Pacific Palms, and Treachery Beach, SugarLoaf , Boat and the Lighthouse Beaches at Seal Rocks Relax and play with the whole family at Elizabeth Beach – patrolled during summer

Snorkel in the National Park at Shelly Beach northern end –Clothing optional on the south end!

Visit One Square Gallery outdoor art installation on the exterior wall of Blueys Motel in Pacific Palms Shopping Village. Open everyday! Enjoy the village Cafés, deli, cellar and boutique homewares and clothing by Heidi Beau

Picnic at the water’s edge of picturesque Smiths Lake – throw a line in and you might even catch dinner – or survey the tranquil setting from a kayak or SUP. Sunset on Wallis Lake Pacific Palms is a must-do! Enjoy water views with your coffee, and delicious light meals, at the Frothy Coffee Boatshed at Smiths Lake – hire a canoe, kayak or catamaran. The kids will love the adjacent playground

Head out to Sugar Creek Picnic area for an easy short Walking Trail (in the Wallingat National Park) that the whole family can enjoy, through a lush rainforest and dense palm forest

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the home of holidays

Visit Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, built in 1875, on the headland at the northern end of Myall Lakes National Park at Seal Rocks. From here you can whale watch in spring, and look out over Seal Rocks, historically home to the northernmost colony of Australian Fur Seals

Stroll through the palm trees at Tiona Park to the famous Green Cathedral by the lake, a popular and pretty outdoor place of worship for weddings and christenings

Pack the clubs and hit the Sandbar Golf Course on The Lakeway at Pacific Palms

TEA GARDENS & HAWKS NEST

Watersports! Tea Gardens’ waterways are ideal for recreational water activities, stand up paddle hires from Ezy Kayaks and Lazy Paddles will get you onto the water, boating, fishing and swimming

Dine out overlooking the vast lakes – casual family-friendly eateries, and venues for sunset cocktails and special occasions!

Delight in the dolphins that swim alongside the ferry from Tea Gardens to Nelson Bay throughout the year, and take a whale watch cruise between May and November

Scan the scene from on high, across Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, from Lions Park Lookout on Tea Gardens Way. Stop for a picnic with views of Port Stephens

Cross the ‘Singing Bridge’ to Hawks Nest Beach (aka Bennetts Beach) where the surf’s always up, or enjoy a family beach day at Jimmys Beach, which is protected by Yacaaba Head

A gentle stroll along Marine Drive, on the banks of the Myall River, will lead you straight to the pedestrian access to a scenic 20-minute walk across the Singing Bridge

7 8

Visit Tea Gardens Ice Cream Shack on Marine Drive

Visit the The Gallery, the home of Galleries in Tea Gardens that brims with paintings, ceramics, drawings, sculptures, etchings, prints, books, jewellery and much more.

Take away fish and chips at Hook N Crook on Marine Drive, or eat in at Mumms on the Myall or Tea Gardens Boatshed for coffee and cake

Hire bikes at Reflections Holiday Park Jimmys Beach Coast 16

the home of holidays

nicole.bramble

Nowendoc National Park

Tuggolo State Forest

ard

Curracabundi National Park

Magog

Riv

fie

lds

Curracabundi SCA

Barakee National Park

Monkeycot Nature Reserve

Mernot Pimple

Mernot NR

Creek

Glenrock

Corroboree Flat

reek

Watchimbark C NR

rna

Mt Myra

ra Coote

Cootera Hill

River

Coneac SCA

Aussie Ark Wildlife Sanctuary Barrington Tops

tewarts Brook

Moppy

Beea

Rawdon Vale

Brumlow Top 1586 m

Barrington Tops National Park

River

Barring

ton

Mt Paterson

Lake Chichester

Black Knob

The Glen Nature Reserve

Craven

Johnsons Creek

Bellbird Hill

Weismantels

Ghin-d Natio Pa Cabbage Tree Mtn

Conical Mtn

Myall R State Fo

Riv

Peach Tree Mtn Peppers Mtn

Stroud Road

ers

Myall River State Forest

Stroud

WA Y

River

Allandale

Lochinvar A43

Lochinvar

HIGHWAY

Rutherford

Lorn Bolwarra

ams

Hill

Wallalong

Coast 18 Morpeth

Raworth

Mt George

C FI CI PA

Limeburners Creek

Willi Columbey Glen Oak Other great day trips: • Ellenborough Falls Wallaroo SCA NP Dunns • Nabiac • Crowdy Head Lighthouse Creek Mt Torrance • Yacaaba Hike at Tea Gardens Wallaroo Hill Seaham Woodville • Manning Point and beach Seaham

Bolwarra Heights

Karuah

River

Girvan

Rive

Paterson

amid rolling hills yield abundant (and delicious) Mt Hudson produce – stop at Bent on Food and try the 31 local Branxton fare for yourself. Rosebrook Hunter NE W

Myall Lakes Craw R National Park

Pilchers

Paterson

Elderslie

Winns Mtn

Crawford

East Gresford

Brogdens Pinnacles

Telegherry

r Rive

Tyraman

Red Hill

River

rd Wa

from Bulahdelah on a 40-minute drive deepLewinsbrook into Old Bar &MtnWallabi Point Mt Renwicks Ebsworth Mt Ararat Sugarloaf Wirragulla 31 the hinterland, along Thunderbolts Way, to the A Manning Valley town, Old Bar isFlatfamous for Booral Tops Torryburn Mirannie Mtn charming colonial town of Stroud, where much of its spectacular beaches, and the ambience at Trevallyn Wallarobba the architecture reflects its settlement in the early the iconic Flow Bar is testament to the casual Mt Brookfield Karuah Hilldale Breckin NR 1800s. Big Table coastal vibe that permeates the Glen town. Saltwater William Top Welshmans Glendon Vacy National Park Creek is only 10 minutes’ drive away and Ironstone Brook Mtn Wingham Mt Douglas Allworth Mt George Glen Martin Tangory is a popular spot for swimming and surfing. The Martins Creek Uffington Manning Mt Johnstone Mtn Wingham is the oldest town in the Mt Sugarloaf SF Lambs Karuah small village of Wallabi Point overlooks the Pacific Valley, proclaimed a village in 1844 and named Kurrikaba Mtn Clarence Town NP Columbey 2 Karuah Hill Ocean, at the far end of Saltwater Nature Reserve. NP for Wingham in Kent, England. Its rich farmland National Park

M15

Waukivory

Stratford

Upper Monkerai

Fosterton Black Bulga hort and scenic day trips are a great way to Wootton Underbank Dusodie Monkerai SF SCA Eccleston Wi l l i a Spring really get to know a place. Check the map The mpicturesque pastoral hamlet of Wootton is Mtn Brownmore Bandon 2 and set outBelgrave north, south, east or west on a renowned for the sheep, goats, buffalo, Grovecattle, Killarney Big Black Mtn Lords Pillar Main Jack Mtn leisurely drive, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised chickens, llamas, alpacasNRand pigs allCreek farmed Lostock Halton Mt Fosterton Monkerai Tillegra Little Black Lostock Butterwicki by any number of discoveries your outing brings! in the area. Call into Great Lakes Paddocks, a Bendolba NR Jack Mtn Dam Monkerai Lostock Dam Mtn working farm and vineyard, on Herivels Road. TheWashpool Bulahdelah Reserve and Stroud Allynbrook Dingadee 6km one-way Wootton Historical Railway Walk Rivers Bulahdelah,Mount on the banks of the Myall River, is the 31 Cooks in Wang PinnacleWauk State Forest follows remnants of ideal town from which to explore the Great Lakes Mirannie 31 railways and old logging bridges, past waterfalls, Dungog hinterland. The main street hums with the gentle Mt Richardson creeks and rainforest. Gresford rhythm of popular eateries and shops. Head west Alison

Greta

Banks Rocks

Wards River

Riv

Prickly Peak

rro

Riv

River

Riv

rua

Chichester State Forest

Riv

Allyn

Wangat

Avon River SF

Big Ben

Mt Toonumbue

Wau kiv

Terrible Billy

Pat

Belford tional Park

Berrico NR

Dixie Top Lookout

Dundungra Falls

Salisbury

Carrabolla

Avon River State Forest

Day trips Chichester

Masseys Creek State Forest

Mt Carrow

Forbesdale

ory

The Pinnacle The Mountaineer

Mt Nelson

Mt Royal

Faulkland

est

Cre

illi

Chichester State Forest

Mt Cabre Bald

Gloucester Falls Barrington Tops National Park ich

Mt Allyn

Gloucester

Gangat

Berrico

Maudville

Riv e r

er ucest Glo

Cockcrow Mtn

Bucketts Scenic Walk

Invergorden

Gloucester Tops Lookout

Corker Mtn

Copeland

River

Mt Mckenzie

Careys Peak 1545 m

BaldyGloucester Bill Gallery Bulliac ster uce Glo

Barrington

Mt Bruigate

Mt Barrington 1556 m

Bundook

Riv

River

Copeland Tops SCA Ba rr i ng t

Y WA

Beean

Bro

Boranel Mtn

Barrington Tops SF

nin

BUCK

Whipstick Mtn

Bowman

River

Front Mtn

Knor State Fo M

Rookhurst

Upper Bowman

Cobark

Rocks Crossing

Khatambuhl NR

Camels Hump Nature Reserve

Coneac SF

Cobark Lookout

Riv

Bowman State Forest

River

Moppy

Bretti

Ding SF

Poto F

Mt Pipanpinga

S BOLT DER UN TH

Thunderbolts Lookout

Bretti Nature Reserve

River

Nesbitts Peak

Barrington Tops SCA

The Firs

Bullocks Bow

River

Barrington Tops State Forest

Polblue Falls

River Karo Mtn

Vinegar Mtn

Manning

Stewarts Brook SF

Dingo Top

Y WA

River

Honeysuckle Walk

Giro State Forest

Bennys Top

Barney

Barrington Tops SCA

TH U

Woko National Park

Pigna

Dilgry

end

Giro

Dingo S

Now

Giro State Forest

LTS BO ER ND

Mernot State Forest

ha Or

Bulga SF

Bugan Nature Reserve

Cooplacurripa

River

Barnard

Giro State Forest

ETTS

Mt Gog

WAY

Barry

River

er Riv

k ree tle Cat

Tomalla State Forest

Ringwood Flat

the home of holidays Nelsons Plains

Grahamstown

Wallaroo SF A1

Medowie SCA

Karuah

Medowie NR

NP Gir-um-bit

Mullwee

Karuah NR

Tahlee

Port Stephens Swan Bay

Bundabah

Pindimar Lim

North Arm Cove South

Pindimar Is

Passage

Corlette Ne

Rowleys Peak Lookout

Snowy Mtn

Tapin Tops National Park

Upsalls Creek SF

Falls

Elands Killabakh NR

8 Mt Gibraltar

go Din

Dingo SF

Killabakh

Yarratt SF Khatabundah Mtn

River

Wingham Brush Nature Reserve

Charity Creek BUCKETTS

Tinonee

WAY

Burrell Creek

Cre

Talawahl NR

Dyers Crossing

Karkatt Firefly

Cocumbark

Bucca Wauka

Possum Brush

C IF PA

Tuncurry

Willina

Kyle Rock

Coolongolook NR

Warranulla

Wootton

Myall

Bulahdelah State Forest

HI GH W

Yeo Farm Myall Lakes NP Bulahdelah

Riv

The Grandis

Rosenthal

PA C I F I C

River

Wallingat SF

Bulahdelah Mtn

Myall Lakes National Park

Myall Lake

Boomerang Beach

Blueys Beach

Pacific Highway Other road Track (may require 4WD) Walking trail

Smiths Lake

Myall Lakes National Park

Seal Rocks

Visitor Information Centre Point of interest Coffee Trail

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

Treachery Head Submarine Beach Fiona Beach

Water refill station Airport Train station Boat ramp (major) secure.rms.nsw.gov.au/map-files/boat-ramps/

Big Gibber Headland

Patrolled beach

Bombah Point

Bombah Broadwater

Major road

Sandbar

Smiths Lake

Boolambayte Lake

Myall Lakes National Park

Y WA GH HI

Booti Booti NP

Pacific Palms

Bungwhal

McGraths Hill

erong SF

Key to Map Symbols

Tiona

6 Mayers Flat Boolambayte

Bulahdelah SF

Nerong

Seven Mile Beach

Wallis Lake

Tarbuck Bay

Bulahdelah SF

Cape Hawke

Booti Booti National Park

Wallingat NP

Markwell

Bulahdelah

Whoota Whoota Lookout

Forster Keys

Yahoo Island

River

Newells Creek

OCrowdy C EHeadALighthouse N Photo. @eefexplores

Bennetts Head

Green Point

GreatBachelor Lakes Paddocks Coomba Park SF Wootton

Wang Wauk State Forest

Upper Myall

PA C I F I C

Forster

Wallis Island NR Wallingat

Coolongolook

doo-ee onal ark

Hallidays Point

Cape Hawke Harbour

Minimbah

Bunyah

Red Head Blackhead Beach

Corrigan Darawank NR

Darawank

W a n g Wa u k R i v er

Wallabi Point Photo. Nusa Indah Surfboards

Diamond Beach

Failford

Nabiac

Wallamba NR

wford River

Y HWA HIG

Wallabi Point

Wallabi Beach Saltwater

Rainbow Flat

Mt Talawahl

Krambach

Tahpit

Kiwarrak SF

iba

Kiwarrak SF

Saltwater National Park

B ea

WAY

Farquhar Inlet

Old Bar

Talawahl SCA

Kiwarric Mtn

BUCK ET TS

Farquar Park

Bohnock

Kiwarrak SF

Hillville

Manning Point

Ni n e M i le

Kundibakh

Crowdy Head

Manning Point

Mitchells Island

Oxley Island

Purfleet

Crowdy Lagoon

Harrington

Croki

Dumaresq Island

Taree THE

Great Swamp

Cundletown

Abbey Creek

Jones Island

Taree Airport

Kylies Beach

Cattai Wetlands

Coopernook Kundle Kundle

Wingham

Mount George

River orest

Melinga

Moorland

C FI

Diamond Head

Crowdy Bay National Park

Lansdowne SF

Brimbin NR

Mt Ganghat

Belbora

Coopernook

Johns River Johns River SF

South Brother

Dunbogan Beach

Watson Taylors Lake

Cree

Wyoming River

River

AY HW IG

beachsafe.org.au/surf-safety

Dogs welcome

Mungo Beach

midcoast.nsw.gov.au/dogs

SCENIC DRIVES

(dashed lines are unsealed roads)

Myall Lakes National Park all

mestone

River

Dark Point

Monkey Jacket

Tea Gardens Hawks Nest

Corrie sland NR

Winda Woppa

elson Bay Shoal Bay

Broughton Island Little Broughton Island

Cabbage Tree Island John Gould NR

Although considerable care and effort has been exercised while compiling content for this map, the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions and disclaims responsibility to any person or organisation for loss or damage suffered from the use of this map for any purpose whatsoever. The publisher would be pleased to receive additional or updated information along with suggestions for future editions. Please email: hello@barringtoncoastpublishing.com.au

Coast 19

Camden Head

Dooragan NP

Rossglen

Middle Brother NP

Hannam Vale

e Riv

Appletree Flat Dingo Peak

Lansdowne State Forest

Dawson

rrit orest

k Cree

Wherrol Flat

Caparra

oroo Falls

Newbys Lookout

Goonook NR

art

North Haven

Laurieton

Middle Brother SF

Coorabakh NP

Mt Goonook

go F

tew

Big Nellie

Grants Beach

Queens Lake

Lorne

Comboyne S SF

Flat Rock Lookout

Bent on Food, Wingham

Bonny Hills

Kew

Kendall

North Branch SF

Waitui Falls

Killabakh NR

Killabakh Mtn

Kerewong SF

Mtn

Comboyne

Kew SF

Lorne SF

PA CI

Boorganna Sugarloaf NR Rawson

Ellenborough Falls

Ellenborough Falls Photo MooskiCreative

Middle Rock Point

Herons Creek

Bulga State Forest

Lake Cathie

Bulls Ground State Forest

Bridal Veil Falls NR

the home of holidays

Follow any of these six scenic touring routes to experience the coastal great lakes and beaches, lookouts with spectacular views, waterfalls, picnic and camping areas, mountain ranges and rainforest river valleys. All within a short drive of the Pacific Highway.

REGIONAL MAP

National Park

our

natural environment

COASTAL LAKES & LAGOONS

ABORIGINAL

PLACES

THE ONLY DOUBLE DELTA RIVER in the southern hemisphere the 261km Manning River

HERITAGE CONSERVATION AREAS

NATIONAL PARKS Nature Reserves & Conservation Areas

63 STATE FORESTS

38 RIVERS

ELLENBOROUGH FALLS the tallest single drop waterfall in NSW

UNESCO World Heritage-listed

980KM² GREAT LAKES MARINE PARK

GONDWANA RAINFORESTS

extends from Cape Hawke near Forster to the northern end of Stockton Beach, Newcastle

Did You Know …? In 1999 the Myall Lakes were designated as a Wetland of International Importance under The Ramsar Convention, the first modern treaty between nations aimed at conserving natural resources. Coast 20

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our lifestyle The NSW North Coast (which includes the MidCoast region) attracted 15.3 million visitors in the year ending December 2019, up 13.4% on the same period in 2018. SOURCE: National & International Visitor Surveys, Tourism Research Australia

Our whale and dolphin watching opportunities are wonderful! Along our coastline, observing the migration of these beautiful marine mammals, and their playful exhibitions, is an unforgettable experience – from prime viewing spots like Wallabi Point, Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse at Seal Rocks, to upclose-and-personal encounters with Amaroo Cruises at Forster.

Food! Glorious Food! We’re renowned for our fabulous local produce – supplying everything from coveted Sydney Rock Oysters and incredible fresh fish and seafood to artisan cheeses and breads, homegrown and brewed wines and beer, grass-fed angus beef, organic greens, marmalades and relishes and even locally-roasted coffee.

We take a ‘wholistic’ approach to life – our natural environment and temperate climate make it so easy to embrace active, outdoor experiences, every single day. An amazing number of walking trails, both coastal and within our spectacular national parks, are suitable for the shortest stroll or the intrepid hike; go snorkelling or diving, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, boating or fishing, surfing or swimming, cycling or climbing. We welcome wellness on the Barrington Coast! Coast 21

We’re actively energy aware on the Barrington Coast, with a growing number of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations right across the region from Bulahdelah and Coolongolook to Diamond Beach, Forster, Gloucester and Taree. You’ll also find charging stations at Karuah, Nabiac, Heatherbrae and Stroud. For the full list of EV Charging Stations in the Barrington Coast region visit drivezero.com.au the home of holidays

Pazella's is serving up traditional Italian dishes using locally sourced ingredients and freshly roasted Bootleg Blend Coffee. Forster NSW

foCulture od Why our

SIMPLY

GASTRONOMICAL!

ine out or dine in on the NSW MidCoast and chances are many of the delicious morsels on your plate are fresh from the region’s own oceans, lakes, rivers, farms, and kitchen gardens.

Thanks to the enthusiasm and dedication of local growers and producers, and the wholehearted embrace of delighted chefs and foodies, the area’s status as a fine gastronomy hub has taken off! Here, restaurants, Cafés and other eateries proudly present quality local produce, creating tasty and innovative menus offering the freshest ingredients across a range of cuisines from pizza, pasta and pub grub, sushi and salads, burgers and baked goods to Asian fusion, modern Australian, Mexican and fine dining.

The Longtable Farm

The Great Lakes area of the New South Wales MidCoast region is deservedly regarded as one of the best sources of fresh local seafood in the state, but now it is also growing in reputation for the gastronomic smorgasbord of goodies coming out of the pastoral lifestyle in the hinterland. And in its towns, the artisan food movement is burgeoning.

Buffalo dairy products; Bulahdelah chemical-free, natural honey; delicious desserts and cakes; pasture-raised pork, beef and lamb; organic artisan sourdough; seasonal fruit, vegetables and nuts; cheeses, chutneys, jams and pickles; locally brewed craft beers; locally roasted coffee; homegrown wines; craft distilled spirits; herbal teas and more … And with ample opportunity to shop straight from many of the local growers and suppliers, everyone can benefit from the fabulous ‘paddock to plate’ philosophy, to create mouth-watering meals in their own kitchens. The local community Farm to Fridge initiative even offers an online order option, for pick up or delivery straight to your door. farmtofridge.com.au

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Established by husband and wife team, David and Helen Black, in 2017, The Coastal Brewing Company evolved to meet an increasing demand for local, fresh, independently brewed beer. David and Helen had both previously enjoyed over 20 years of corporate life and, after David completed a brewing qualification from Federation University, they moved full steam ahead to find a location in the region for their microbrewery. Regular visitors to the area over a number of years, the couple decided on Forster as the ideal spot for their brewery.

local

The concept of ‘L.I.F.E’ – Local, Independent, Fresh, Everytime – is fundamental to the brewery’s operations, and the names of the beers, including Cellito IPA, Diamond Beach Pilsner, Treachery XPA and Wallis Weizen, are inspired by the local Barrington Coast region. The brewery uses natural ingredients on a 1200L brewhouse and, in its first three years of operation, brewed over 30 different beers. There’s also a big focus on innovation at the brewery, with new beers constantly being added to the line up. In the Tap Room, as well as cans and cases, you can even fill ‘growlers and ‘squealers’ to takeaway. Coastal Brewing Company beer is sold in bottleshops, bars and restaurants across NSW and the ACT, as well as nationally through select online retailers and via the brewery’s online store.

COASTAL BEER

he local beer is brewed by The Coastal Brewing Company, based in Forster. You’ll find their beer in bottleshops, bars and restaurants across the region, and you can also visit the Tap Room in Forster and sample the beers on a tasting paddle (89mL glasses), in a 200mL or schooner glass, and enjoy light food and a tour of the brewery.

GREAT LAKES

Paddocks

Part of The Great Lakes Food Trail, the brewery is also a pick-up hub for the online local produce store, Farm to Fridge. 3 Dalman Street, Forster 02 6554 7886 thecoastalbrewingcompany.com

reat Lakes Paddocks is a working farm producing grass-fed Angus beef in the tranquil hinterland … but it’s also a vineyard with a tasting room, an event hub, and a beautiful wedding venue, offering a diverse selection of delicious local produce. With ample outdoor space, well-behaved dogs are also welcome to accompany their humans. Great Lakes Paddocks offers Wine and Cheese Flights consisting of a selection of three wines paired with three cheeses, a fabulous way to sample the delicious local wines together with scrumptious artisan cheeses. Due to current restrictions BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL where groups of up to 8 people can enjoy this experience for $15 per person. Intimate weddings and small private functions are welcome, and you can even try a spot of ‘Nature Bathing’ that encourages immersion in nature for improved mental and physical wellbeing! And the ever popular Back Paddock Music days haven’t disappeared, but numbers are limited, so visitors wanting to attend these fun music events are required to register via email to Great Lakes Paddocks. Opening hours: Thursday to Monday – 11am to 4pm 115 Herivels Road, Wootton Call prior to visiting on 0419 618 211 info@greatlakeswines.com.au greatlakespaddocks.com.au

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Whenreally you

love

coffee! LITTLE STREET ROASTERS

t wasn’t until 2016 that Little Street Roasters began roasting its own coffee, but the passion for great coffee actually started 10 years earlier – with a cappuccino Michael Tartt ordered at a café in Adelaide’s CBD.

the capital cities? I thought not,” Michael says. The plan was always to roast coffee without compromise, and eventually they met with Double Roasters in Marrickville, Sydney, who were in the process of expansion.

“They offered us their Ghilbi R15 coffee It tasted far better than usual. Velvety smooth roaster made by Coffee Tech Engineering – yet still rich and full-bodied – every sip was and we dived in, head first, developing our liquid gold. So he inquired about the coffee. first blend using the new “It’s a specialty coffee equipment,” Michael blend roasted by Five explains. “Coffee roasting Senses in Melbourne,” Getting involved with has always been a the café proprietor the Farm to Fridge secretive and hidden art replied. initiative has allowed form, with information “That was it,” Michael recalls, “Never again would I settle for just a coffee.”

them to meet some exceptional local artisans, producing world-class products in their own backyard.

A few years later, with co-founder, Jack Yeates, Michael opened the flagship coffee account, Tartt Café, in the main street of Forster. It was here that Little Street Roasters really cut its teeth. The mission was simple, introduce as many people as possible to the same enlightening experience that Michael had all those years before.

initially nearly impossible to access, so trial and error become our best friend and, after a few weeks and hundreds of cupping sessions, we created our staple brew, the “Bootleg Blend.”

“It is important that customers view coffee as an experience, rather than a functional necessity,” says Jack. “Coffee philosophy and mutual respect has always been the foundation of our relationship with our wholesale partners.”

FORSTER

“Is there any reason why regional towns shouldn’t have the same exceptional coffee as

As the roastery grew, Michael’s longtime dream came to fruition with the addition of their very own electric blue 1979 Holden Sandman Coast 24

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Coffee Van, that provides a direct connection to the community and can be seen serving up the Bootleg Blend at local events, markets and festivals. Our journey has not been without challenges and navigating the coffee industry in a constantly changing environmental and economic landscape is not for the faint hearted. An active approach is required to stay ahead of the curve and maintain a coffee supply that stays consistent for the customer experience.

Tartt

unky, fun and friendly, Tartt is named for owner and renowned local coffee aficionado, Michael Tartt who, together with partner and barista, Jack Yeates, runs the trio of “Great Coffee!” enterprises made up of Tartt, Wingman Espresso and Little Street Roasters, roasting their own premium coffee beans locally and supplying them to cafés and restaurants across the region.

Café

Forster

This popular café, located on Forster’s fabulous Wharf Street, not only whips up delicious fresh ground coffee all day, but also opens for mouth-wateringly tasty breakfasts and lunches – and the burgers here are legendary! And if you want to take that exceptional coffee experience with you when you leave, Tartt also sells Little Street Roasters’ famed Bootleg Blend, so you can brew a cup at home! Tartt happily accepts the #ShopMidCoast Card. 6/12 Wharf Street, Forster 02 6555 6690

Deeply ingrained into their vision for the brand is strengthening the connection with their community. Getting involved with the Farm to Fridge initiative has allowed them to meet some exceptional local artisans, producing world-class products in their own backyard. Little Street Roasters now has a growing community of wholesale partners from Newcastle to Dubbo to Wingham and an online presence offering national shipping both its coffee and equipment. The Ghibli R15 coffee roaster has picked up a friend in the 5kg Garanti small batch roaster. With plans to continue growing into the future, keep an eye out for the Little Street kraken, spreading its tentacles around coffee cups far and wide. Expansion aside, we will always be humbled by our beautiful Barrington Coast community, where it all began! Coast 25

Wingman Espresso, Forster

f you want a side order of great views with your great coffee, head to Wingman Espresso, opposite the ocean baths on Main Beach, Forster.

Locals flock here for the al fresco, waterside vibe to enjoy awesome coffee and delicious light snacks, including the traditional bacon and egg roll, as well as a range of cakes and slices. Open early, Wingman is perfect for brekky or lunch. Pet friendly, kid friendly and accessible, the café’s outdoor seating area, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is the perfect place to stop for refreshment on a morning stroll through Forster. Wingman Espresso happily accepts the #ShopMidCoast Card. 22 North St, Forster 0421 550 354

the home of holidays

Photo. Jack Hubbard

A tale of

Wallis LAKE G R A H A M B A R C L AY and his award-winning Sydney Rock Oysters

The Oysters Did you know … one of the largest suppliers of the famous Sydney Rock Oyster can be found right here in the Great Lakes region?

he Barclay family has been farming Wallis Lake’s prized Sydney Rock Oysters for over 100 years, and across three generations. At the helm of Graham Barclay Oysters is its 88-year-old namesake, whose grandfather originally managed the Wallis Lake sector for Woodward and Company. Englishman, Henry Woodward, known as the ‘Father of Australia’s oyster industry’ was granted the first ever oyster lease at No. 41 in Breckenridge Channel, Wallis Lake, in 1884. Woodward is regarded as a pioneer in methods of oyster cultivation, using cabbage tree sticks to give the oyster larvae a hospitable place to grow. This eventually evolved into the stick cultivation used today. Named as the Best In Australia, Graham Barclay Oysters’ prized Sydney Rock Oysters grow in the crystal clear waters of Wallis Lake and its estuary, which together cover an area 1.5 times greater in size than Sydney Harbour. Yielding around 40% of all Sydney Rock Oysters in New South Wales, with 16 million of the delicacies sold annually, the proof is in the tasting with every oyster produced by Barclay and his dedicated team.

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GRAHAM BARCLAY

hese waterways and the Barclay family are synonymous. This is where a young Graham learned to water ski, building a slalom water ski track at the spot that is now known as Forster Keys, and going on to become an Australian Champion, successfully competing in World Titles. This is home to Graham Barclay Marine, on the Lakesway at Forster, selling and servicing boats and boating equipment, hobie kayaks and Yamaha Outboards, and selling fishing tackle to locals and visitors for over 40 years. And, this is where, at the age of 22, Graham Barclay took over the family oyster farming business, following the death of his father. Leaving Forster High at age 15, with what he wryly refers to as “DCM Qualifications – ‘Don’t Come Monday’" – Graham’s life as a professional rugby league player, champion water skier, award-winning oyster farmer and business owner speaks for itself. The respect he has earned as a true gentleman, with an unflinching community spirit, is testament to that character. A respected local identity in the Forster area, Graham Barclay is a master of the Wallis Lake waterways. To this day, his is one of the first “go-to” telephone calls from community, local operators and waterways authorities,

Photo. Mark C Smith

when help is needed. Decades of knowledge of the lake and ocean, and extensive expertise with marine machinery and operations, has seen Graham assist local charter vessels stuck on sandbars late in the night, and locate an airplane engine wreckage deep in Wallis Lake, where even the ‘experts’ had not thought to look. When he was asked to review loose pylons on the iconic Forster Tuncurry Bridge Graham called on his knowledge of dredging in the practice of using the lake’s naturally dredged sediments to cement the pylons. Graham’s Surf Life Saving Bronze Medallion training has also served him, and others, well on a few occasions, including saving the life of competitive water skier, George Bevan, who had taken a jump too wide and suffered life-threatening injuries. Applying pressure to a severe arterial wound, Graham recalls calling out to the doctor onshore “We need a clamp!” Many years later, George still stops in at Barclays Oysters when he’s in town to say g’day, always announcing his arrival with the shout-out: “Where’s that guy who saved my life?” And when a five-year-old boy fell into the water off the Tuncurry Fish Co-Op jetty, Graham again jumped into action, pulling the child from the bottom of the lake and, together with his mate, using the Holger-Nielsen resuscitation technique to revive him.

Make sure you sample the locally farmed, world-renowned Sydney Rock Oysters when you are in the area. Visit the Graham Barclays Oyster outlet, or pop into one of the unique Boatshed Oyster Bars on the water’s edge at Little Street, Forster.

Away from the water, Graham’s sense of community came to the fore once again when, in 1955, he joined a 250-person strong volunteer search party, scouring a 2.5 mile area of Coomba Park, at Wallis Lake, for 4-year-old Taree boy, Michael Dunn. Little Michael had wandered away from his father who was helping friends on their property. The following day, the largest search ever conducted in that area began. By the late afternoon, with no sightings of little Michael, the search was called off, but Graham ‘…just had a feeling’ and continued looking, through the dense Coomba bushland, for signs of the boy. Laying a breadcrumb trail of broken twigs to ensure he himself didn’t become lost, (something he says he saw in a movie!) Graham climbed a tree and called out for Michael. “Here I is!” a little voice responded. Hungry, exhausted but unharmed, Michael explained he had slept overnight ‘with the cows, of course’, and had eaten some leaves, as Graham carried him safely from the bushland to a jubilant reception. A humble achiever, Graham Barclay has forged many enduring friendships in the region and Coast 27

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beyond. Local seafood purveyor, Matt Monin, and Graham Barclay not only do business together but also regard each other as mates. Graham says he can relate to the local fishmonger – "Matt reminds me of me when I was younger,” noting the hard work and early mornings, and the success that Matt has achieved over the years at Monin Seafoods. “Graham does a lot for the Great Lakes area,” says Monin, “although he would never admit it!” His family bloodline may pulse with oyster farming, but clearly Graham Barclay’s ties to this pristine part of the world go beyond his award-winning molluscs. In fact, he’s still a familiar figure on and around his beloved waterways. He and his wife, Kay, can often be spotted on the water on Sundays, a tradition they have maintained for many decades. "I couldn't not work, I enjoy it too much. Whenever I’ve had enough, I just jump on my boat and go for a runabout." Cnr. Mark & Little Streets, Forster barclayoysters.com.au

Green

caffeen e c o - f r i e n d ly C a f é

S wa p ’ n ’ G o s y s t e m

ur magazine team is proud to have initiated the SIP, SWAP & SAVE coffee cup initiative in 2019.

With the arrival of COVID-19 in Australia in early 2020, customers and café owners became concerned that ‘swapping’ cups may increase the spread of the virus. Initially, panic was pointing toward the end of reusable coffee cups and a return Together with JR to single use disposable cups. Thankfully, Richards Waste Education officer, Megan common sense and Griffiths, we enlisted stringent COVID-Safe the involvement of our hygiene protocols KEEP THE PLANET Coffee Trail partners have prevented to encourage their CLEAN, JOIN that environmental customers to use swap, GREEN CAFÉEN disaster! or reusable, cups to • Download the Green Caffeen app reduce single-use coffee Savvy businesses, from the App Store or Google Play cup waste. like Green Caffeen, • Buy a coffee at a participating have implemented Citing the 2019 ABC Green Caffeen café new COVID-Safe documentary series, • Scan the code using the Green processes that ‘War on Waste’, Caffeen app protect both baristas presented by Craig and customers, and Reucassel, Megan • Enjoy your coffee in one of our continue to keep our reusable Green Cups noted in our Issue #02 planet clean. last year: “The ultimate • Return the cup to any participating conclusion presented Green Caffeen Green Caffeen café when you’re [in the series] stated provides café owners buying your next coffee, or at any that 1 billion cups used and employees with time for coffee per year are easy-to-follow, and • Grab a fresh, clean Green Cup the not recyclable and manage, protocols next time you order end up in landfill. The for cleaning and • Use the Scan, Swap and Go response from the re-supplying reusable Cup System as many times as you like Australian public has coffee cups to seen unprecedented customers; and the demand for reusable Green Caffeen app cups, and created a makes the contactless nationwide discussion about the sustainable process simple, and reassuring, for customers practices of our daily grind.” wanting to participate in the SWAP ‘n’ GO Coast 28

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philosophy. greencaffeen.com.au/resources Rolling out across the country, Green Caffeen is quickly growing its partner participation in our region. “We have 18 live Cafés across the region, with just over 16,000 uses of Green Caffeen since launch. We’re helping to change the takeaway culture on the MidCoast, as well as driving down the associated costs of single use packaging for Waste collectors and Cafés,” says Green Caffeen co-founder, Damien. “16,000 single use cups equals 240kg of single use packaging not consumed in the Barrington Coast, and almost $5k in savings to the local Cafés in packaging they haven’t had to buy! It’s exciting to see these numbers and how much potential and good it will do as it continues to grow. “And we’ve implemented our COVID- Safe guide to help everyone remain safe and sustainable in this COVID era.” Green Caffeen ‘Green Cups” are made from FDA-approved food-grade recycled plastic, which means they’re even greener than they look. They’re also: • BPA free • 100% Australian made • Energy efficient to produce • Fully recyclable, when they eventually pack it in!

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Blueys Beach

The Coastal Brewing Company

Drift Café

The Farmers Patch

Jenz Coffee & Gift Shop

The Shop at AJ Wilsons

Kembali Café

The Sicilian Restaurant

Hueys At Blueys Pizzeria & Bar

Graham Barclay Oysters

GaGa 4 Gelato

Si Señorita Forster

Forster

Oysters Boat Shed #3

22 Grams Espresso (Stockland)

Cundletown

Café Brass Bell

Cundletown Superfresh

Café Toscano

Gloucester

Beach Bums Café

Roadies Café

Tartt Café

Thunderbolt's Café

Plunge Forster

Fusion Chinese Restaurant

All Things Yum

Gloucester Soldiers Club

Beach Street Seafoods

Hebbys Bakery

Cakes by Candi B

June's Place

Club Forster

Hallidays Point

Forster Bakehouse

The Kranky Goat

Lakes and Ocean Hotel

Meze Hallidays

Lakesway Bakery

Harrington

Limlong Thai

Club Harrington

Lobby's Fresh Seafood

Ella's Takeaway and Seafood

Mums on the Run Catering

Nate's Pizzeria

Pantry Beachside Forster

Harrigan's Irish Pub

Paradise Marina

Nabiac

Pezzella's Pizzeria

Greenhouse Café

Rusty's Hotdogs and Burgers

Old Bar

Spice Monkey Forster

Flow Bar

Subway (Stockland)

Fish Bowl

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Pacific Palms

Kowin Chinese Restaurant

Blueys Cellars & Deli

Sass at Bowers

Farm To Fridge

Taree Charcoal Chicken

Sea + Salt Grazing Co.

The Hive at Club Taree

Pacific Palms Bowling Club

Waterfront Pavilion

Tiona Café

Tea Gardens

Mobys Retreat

Fiona's Tea Gardens Café

Palms Landscape Supplies & Coffee

Myall River Bakery Café

Pacific Palms Recreation Club

Tea Gardens Ice Cream Shack

Country Palings Petals & Pots Café

Mumm's on the Myall

Smiths Lake

Tillermans Café Restaurant

Nadine The Cake Queen

Tea Gardens Boatshed

The Good Food Store

Tea Gardens Hotel

Frothy Coffee

Tuncurry

Stroud

Great Lakes Café

Crepe Myrtle Tea and Coffee Rooms

Hamiltons Oyster Bar

Taree

Sporties Tuncurry

Café Giardino

The Deck @ Tuncurry

Café Nosh

Good Grub Shack Tuncurry

Café 1 twenty 3

The Rockpool Café

Centrepoint Café

Wingham

Greedy Goat Café

Bent on Food

Bakers Delight Taree

Garden Grub Café

Club Taree

Mondrook Garden Café & Gallery

Fays Twin Cinema

Wooton

Jack & Co Food Stores Taree Central

Great Lakes Paddocks

Tea Gardens Bakery Café

Coffee Grind

seaandsalt.com.au Phone 0468 533 156

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emu_escape

The Rockpool Café, Tuncurry

hen customers first walk through the door of Monin Seafoods it’s not unusual to hear them exclaim “Wow!”

Tucked away in Rodmay Street, Tuncurry, it’s quite a surprise to discover an amazing seafood display in the middle of an industrial area, but Monin Seafoods is fast becoming known among locals and visitors alike for its fresh quality seafood. With over 70 years of family experience, Monin’s extensive range illustrates just how passionate they are about the seafood industry. Attached to the Fresh Seafood Market is Monin Seafoods wholesale division, so if you don’t see what you are looking for in-store, just ask … they may well have it in stock. The wholesale division supplies the hospitality industry and other seafood outlets, from Newcastle to Port Macquarie. Open from 7am Monday to Saturday, call in and see Matt Monin and the team at Monin Seafoods. 13 Rodmay Street Tuncurry

02 6555 9189

moninseafoods.com.au

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Photo. Jeffrey de Witte

Aquatic

COOMBA CLUB INC

fter 30 years of fundraising, government grants and thousands of hours of voluntary labour, the dream of Coomba Aquatic Gardens, home of Sailability NSW Inc and Coomba Aquatic Club Inc, is a reality for the local community. The multi-use venue, set on 9ha on the very edge of beautiful Wallis Lake, includes a new function centre, with floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, and space for more than 130 people seated, complemented by a huge wrap-around, undercover veranda. The Centre also boasts a commercial kitchen, solar power and a large grass lawn lakeside.

Tim Haffner, Ruby Machon and Stephen Bromhead with a cheque for $5000

In October 2018, a NSW government grant enabled the construction and unveiling of a new boatshed, a facility that has improved accessibility sailing opportunities, allowing Sailability NSW to hold regional, state and national disability sailing regattas in conditions that ensure the safety, protection and access of

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competitors, carers and spectators. The boatshed also houses the Club’s sailing boats, plus many special and stable boats designed for disabled people through the Club’s Sailability arm, Great Lakes Sailability, alongside boats of the local dragon boat club, Wallis Spirit Dragons. Two floating pontoon jetties – one for sailing boats, one for powered craft – allow visitors from Forster to tie up easily and safely, and nearby parking provides level entry to the function area. Coomba Aquatic Club runs beginners and juniors sailing lessons during school holidays in the warmer months. Sailability NSW has six clubs in northern NSW, including Sailability Great Lakes, and has more than 1783 members and 680 volunteer members in NSW. To get in touch with the Club, please email president@coombaaquatic.club or visit coombaaquatic.club

LUCY WEBSTER Glam Co Hair & Beauty

ucy Webster found herself in Forster via Tamworth, Sydney and Newcastle, as she pursued her passion for glamorous hair, gaining new skills and techniques in hair extensions and colouring along the way. The ‘country girlturned-coastal girl’ established Glam Co Hair & Beauty in Wallis Street Forster, to promote healthy hair and present a wide range of quality hair treatments – including hair extensions. “I found my passion for big transformations with Tape-In hair extensions, as well as beautiful blondes, in Sydney, before moving to Newcastle to grow those skills,” says Lucy, “I was spending a lot of time in Forster, and found a gorgeous space to call my own … Glam Co Hair & Beauty.” The salon prioritises healthy hair, using Redken, Olaplex and R+Co products, which are all sulphate, paraben and cruelty free. Hair consultations, treatments and packages, plus cut-andblowdry, fabulous colours and foils as well as balayage, and amazing Seamless1 hair extensions are among the glam services Lucy offers. Book online at bookings.gettimely.com/glamco/bb/book 15 Wallis Street, Shop 2, Forster 02 6505 2722

Howard, Alison McIntosh, Lisa Proctor, Graham Brown, Maurie Stack and Steve Atkins were publicly thanked by Dr David Gillespie, Member for Lyne, for their commitment to securing the necessary Federal funding for Taree Universities Campus (TUC) which will open in Taree for first semester 2021.

TAREE UNIVERSITIES CAMPUS (TUC)

Making the welcome announcement at the Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber breakfast on 28 July 2020, Dr Gillespie said: “The Taree Universities Campus has finally become a reality. This is a magnificent day for our region. “TUC will form partnerships with several universities and TAFE to offer a range of courses that deliver a combination of local face-to-face and distance learning, known as mixed-mode delivery. Essentially, school leavers and mature age students will be able to complete their tertiary studies locally with the various levels of academic and pastoral support the new campus will offer.”

he news that the MidCoast is finally getting its own campus to support bachelor degree studies at universities has been heralded in the region, following the success of a comprehensive submission to government, supported by the wider community and implemented by a dedicated, and determined, volunteer board. Comprised of locals with diverse experience and backgrounds in academia, business, industry and community, board members John Coast 34

The new Campus will lift tertiary education opportunities in the region, enabling MidCoast students to access and complete higher education without having to leave the community. Students can study locally for tertiary courses delivered by distance from a number of regional Australian institutions. The Campus will provide students with study spaces, break out areas, video conferencing, computing facilities, and high-speed internet access, as well as administrative, academic, pastoral and support services.

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MEGAN LEWIS

hen Megan Lewis established her business, The Resolution Network, ten years ago, she became an active participant in a number of chambers throughout the Mid Coast LGA, and was an executive committee member of the Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber for just 12 months before being elected President in 2019. The Hallidays Point resident describes her new role as one of the most rewarding experiences of her working life. “ I’ve learnt so much about other local businesses, about our area and about the broader region, and I’ve been amazed at people’s creativity and commitment, in particular with the challenges brought to businesses by COVID-19.” Megan found herself in the Great Lakes region following a stint working in Singapore in a regional marketing role with IBM. Back in Sydney, she began to

feel disenchanted with inner city living, and craved wide-open spaces. No stranger to the Mid North Coast, Megan had spent many family holidays in Old Bar, worming on Saltwater beach and fishing out at Mud Bishops and, according to family folklore, Megan’s grandparents were among the first landowners in Old Bar. In 2018 she was invited to join the Forster Tuncurry Business Chamber and now, as Chamber President, has seen firsthand the resilience and imagination many business operators have displayed since COVID-19 impacted enterprises throughout the Great Lakes. “I am passionate about helping the chamber continue to add value and play a leadership role locally, and I’m grateful to the wonderful committee and our 154 members who support and share that same vision.” Contributed by Jeanene Duncan

LEIGH VAUGHAN OAM

orster local, Leigh Vaughan – who plays the cello, is a conductor and a musician – has many strings to her bow, and her passion for music, education and community service was recognised in 2018, when she was bestowed with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) “For Service to Music, Music Education, Local Government and the Community.” Her father, Joseph Dawson, who was a survivor of the Kokoda Track in New Guinea in WW2, and a Life Member of Legacy, instilled in Leigh and her sister a commitment to community service. “We were also taught that if you start something you give it everything you have, and keep at it until the job is finished,” Leigh says. Testament to that commitment, Leigh

Photo. Shane Chalker

was a board member of Arts Mid North Coast from 2003, and only recently stepped down as President; founded Company of Voices in 1995; and was the Founding Chair of Sinfonia MNC community orchestra, sitting on the board for 20 years, and playing cello or conducting in every one of their concerts. She was elected for three terms, from 20042016, as a Councillor for Great Lakes Council, and to the state body of the Local Government Association. Remarkably, Leigh also found time to work with her father to write and self-publish Coast 35

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a book on his Kokoda experiences – ‘Kokoda Survivor’ – ¬ and to raise ‘… three magnificent creative daughters…’ with husband John, with whom she shares many of her passions, including wonderful travel adventures and “… two exceptionally talented grandsons.” “I believe that life-long learning should be available for everyone and, most importantly, it is the right of every student to have access to quality music education, so that it fosters a love of music that will continue to stimulate them forever.”

Classic, Mid-Century motel, previously known as Jasmine Lodge is having a make-over! Situated in the heart of Forster, newly named â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pacific Motelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; will feature: Spacious air conditioned rooms with kitchenettes Family rooms with stove and bench top oven BBQ area for guest use Swimming pool Pet friendly rooms WiFi

02 6555 2000 Photo: Jack Hubbard

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18 Wallis Street Forster the home of holidays

Photo. East Coast Photography

LOCAL BUSINESSES MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR OUR YOUTH

reat Lakes Education Fund (GLEF), part of the Country Education Foundation of Australia, provides much-needed financial grants to students in the region who need an extra helping hand. The cost of regional students pursuing their posthigh school career goals is often much greater than those of their metropolitan counterparts, and in many cases those costs are so prohibitive they prevent regional students from embarking on their chosen path. GLEF fundraises throughout the year, and accepts donations from local residents and businesses to celebrate,

MARGARET PRICE PACIFIC COAST PROPERTY NETWORK

and facilitate, the aspirations of our local youth through sponsorships that help them achieve their educational aspirations. Ongoing GLEF Major Partners, Pacific Palms Real Estate (Kim Jeffress) and Pacific Coast Property Network (Margaret Price), have seen firsthand the opportunities their support has provided to local kids, across a diverse range of education and career pursuits, including apprenticeships, traineeships, cadetships, degrees, diplomas and certificate level studies. Both Kim and Margaret say their involvement

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KIM JEFFRESS PACIFIC PALMS REAL ESTATE

with GLEF has been nothing short of rewarding, and they welcome the opportunity to, once again, support young people in the region in the 2021 academic year. They encourage other members of the Great Lakes community to get involved, either via a partnership with GLEF or through fundraising and donations for the Fund. Eligible students aged between 16-25, who live or have attended school in the 2428 postcode area, must demonstrate a need, and show commitment to achieving their goals in order to be considered for funding assistance. cef.org.au/foundations/great-lakescef

Remarkably close, Spectacularly remote

Enjoy the relaxed coastal chic experience at Blueys Motel. Unwind poolside, barbecue in the private courtyard or take in the ocean breezes from guest room patios. A short stroll to Blueys Beach and its pristine white sands and crystal clear water. Across the road are the village shops, cafes and eateries, with beautiful Boomerang Beach just over the hill.

186 Boomerang Drive, Blueys Beach NSW 2428 P: 02 6554 0665 | info@blueysmotel.com.au www.blueysmotel.com.au

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A RT

eographically, we may be located far from big cities where artist colonies traditionally flourish, but you may be surprised to discover that the Barrington Coast boasts a lively and healthy arts scene, led by a talented, committed and diverse community of prolific artists, busily creating stunning works that are showcased in our galleries, markets, festivals and events. And you can’t miss the colour bursts of playful creativity displayed on many shop signs for village vendors, and in splashes of vibrant street art. Artists abound across our region, creating stunning, evocative and sometimes plain ‘fun’ visual arts through the mediums of painting, drawing, sculpture, animation, photography, and anything else you can think of! Set out, at your own pace, on the popular self-

guided Pacific Palms Arts Trail, an initiative of Pacific Palms Arts Inc, with participating outlets opening to visitors one Sunday each month to support creative arts projects in the Great Lakes region. From the Pacific Palms Community Centre at Elizabeth Beach, you can wend your way to Catherine Garrod’s studio and gallery at Smiths Lake, Jenz @ Blueys Beach for tribal artworks and a coffee, then on to Trisha’s on Blueys Gallery on Boomerang Drive, Raw Edge Photography at Boomerang Beach to Lake View Gallery at ‘The Recky’ at Elizabeth Beach. (NOTE: The advent of COVID-19 has changed some scheduling and events. Please check with pacificpalmsartsinc.org.au for the latest updates.)

If you’re mesmerised by Trisha Fitzpatrick’s underwater series, check out her work at One Square Gallery (open every day at Blueys Motel) or visit Trishas On Blueys studio, open days visit pacificpalmsartsinc.org.au

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A R T / E V E N T S / M A R K E T S / F E S T I V A L S

Artist: Dani Kaimoana, Blue Dust Collective

Photographer: Jessica Lindsay

DISCOVER THE AWESOME ART OF THE BARRINGTON COAST By Renee Collocott

Renee Collocott is an artist who lives in Forster with her husband, Heath, and baby boy Solomon. Growing up in Forster, Renee left the area to pursue a career as a designer and journalist when she completed her schooling, and travelled the globe in search of stories and experiences that would inform her outlook and fuel her passion for art. Renee’s artwork can be viewed at Blue Dust Gallery on Boundary Street in Forster.

rt has the capacity to transport an experience to any part of the world, without losing its identity or meaning – a moment of love or elation is cemented

in time when an artist depicts a scene or instant, held dear, in the form of art. The Barrington Coast boasts a thriving creative culture, and when it comes to visual art, our community is home to many fabulous people who paint, sculpt, photograph and draw, as well as talented graphic artists, textiles experts,

videographers, surfboard shapers and street artists, inspired by both the natural environment of the Barrington Coast and its lifestyle. The cultural richness of the region, courtesy of the traditional owners of the land – the Worimi, Biripi and Gurrigay peoples – is preserved and respected. All of our artists tell meaningful stories, in a way that transports past and current culture to the future. So how do you pick art for your home, and what kind of art is best? This question has many answers, but the key to buying art is to choose a piece that personally resonates with you in Coast 42

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some way, small or great. Art is more than just a vehicle for the artist’s self expression, it is also a source of pleasure for the viewer, designed to adorn a wall in a way that evokes conversation and allows you to feel all the feels! You will find cultural significance embedded in many works in this region, like the new work of Worimi woman, Lara Went from Yukul Art, or the famous late Valerie Wright, who documented our foreshores for decades. If you prefer the work of an up-and-coming artist and want to talk to them, head to Blue Dust Gallery, rapidly becoming a springboard

for new talent. Stand in front of an artwork and ask yourself why you like it and how it makes you feel, or ask the artist to interpret the inspiration behind the piece. Not only is that perfectly acceptable, but the artist will really appreciate your interest! When a particular piece of artwork draws you in, there is a reason; so make it yours –and find a good framer to really showcase your chosen art (it will make all the difference, trust me on this one).

International, national and established emerging artists are showcased at the Manning Regional Art Gallery that presents a diverse and outstanding exhibition program throughout the year. The Gallery features both group and solo shows, and high profile touring shows like the Archibald and the Doug Moran National portrait prize.

search #barringtoncoastartist #hearttoheartaustralia

#theothersideartistretreat

I have just scratched the surface of art on the Barrington Coast, and I hope it helps you start your journey from coast to country. Our region teems with talent.

#onesquaregallery Pacific Palms Arts Trail #bluedustcollective opens the doors to the If you’d like to delve deeper, creative mecca that is “The here are some of my favourite Palms”, when artists invite places and experts to point the public into their homes you in the right direction so to view the work inspired you can fill your own unique by their lives on the Barrington Coast. Held at art and soul cup with a ‘moment’ you hold dear, the same time as the Palms Markets, this is a from the beautiful Barrington Coast. perfect day trip to fill up your art cup. While at Pacific Palms, go to the heart of Blueys Beach village to see the new drive-by Gallery, an innovative and exciting art initiative showcasing 01 square metre local artworks. The outdoor gallery, aptly named ‘One Square Gallery’, is an art installation that brings pops of colour and culture to the otherwise blank wall of Blueys Motel. Curated by Eleanor Rattray, this innovative art installation highlights the spirit of the community, bringing artists together to create a visual feast.

galleries Manning Regional Art Gallery Tues to Sat 10am to 5pm Gloucester Gallery Wed to Sat 10am to 4pm/Sunday 10am to 1pm Blue Dust Gallery Mon to Fri 6:30am to 2:30pm Sat 7am to 2:30pm/Sun 7am to 1pm Lake Street Gallery Fri to Sun 10am to 4pm. Art classes are offered daily One Square Gallery @ Blueys Motel Available to view every day!

In Forster, head to Blue Dust Collective Gallery, the newest gallery on the Barrington Coast featuring art by a collective of local artists. Exhibits change every few months, with works by young and upcoming creative folk. Its unique entry sits inside Plunge Forster, a café at the Fairways. Stroll and sip coffee while you enjoy the art and culture that is celebrated in this collaborative community space. Another well-known gallery is Yukul Art, a contemporary Aboriginal art studio in Darrawank, filled with work by Worimi woman - Lara Went. This beautiful space is filled with art pieces, and collaborations, and in the workshop you can learn new skills and enhance your understanding of, and appreciation for, Aboriginal culture.

Artist: Renee Collocott, Blue Dust Collective

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01 SQM

blueys Beach Street Art OneSquareGallery

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Congratulations Trent Hopper Overall winner of the 2019 Youth Art Exhibition - Pacific Palms Art Festival

he people behind local art initiatives One Square Gallery at Blueys Motel, and the Lakeview Gallery at Pacific Palms Recreational Club, were spot-on reading community sentiment, before the release of the MidCoast Cultural Plan 2036, Round 1 Feedback in July 2020. Having both separately conceived their innovative art projects in mid-2019, and unveiling them just months later, One Square Gallery Curator, El Rattray, and Lakeview Gallery Curator, Debe Brassey, who is the Art Liaison Officer for Pacific Palms Art Inc, agree it was exciting to see the MidCoast Cultural Plan’s community survey participants endorse the importance of “… the co-locating of retail businesses and cultural spaces.” “We love being part of this vision, and what it means to the community, through collaboration with artists and businesses,” says El. One Square Gallery is a creative outdoor street art concept that showcases artworks

on the exterior wall of Blueys Motel on Boomerang Drive at Blueys Beach.

art lovers coming together collaboratively in the spirit of community.”

Each piece of art is mounted on either Through One Square Gallery and Lakeview 5mm aluminium composite or 5-10mm Gallery, El and Debe weatherproof board, have also developed a and carries the artist’s reciprocal relationship One Square Gallery Intagram tags (where on behalf of their two is a creative outdoor you can buy the artist’s enterprises. Expanding street art concept that works), along with on their original visions, #OneSquareGallery and showcases artworks the two art lovers are #BlueysBeach. on the exterior wall

focused on further of Blueys Motel on “I loved the idea of fostering the region’s Boomerang Drive at injecting a pop of colour Blueys Beach. talented artists, and and interest into the village, using the Blueys the next generation Motel wall to showcase of young artists via a the artists and their art. range of fundraising The concept of the outdoor gallery really and donations programs and competitions, resonates with the relaxed, casual lifestyle thanks in no small part to the active and natural beauty that locals and visitors encouragement and participation of the local experience when exploring the region. community and businesses! “It also serves to drive traffic to local One Square Gallery, Blueys Motel businesses, facilitate sales for local artists 186 Boomerang Drive, Blueys Beach and contribute donations to local youth art programs. We are all local professionals and

#onesquaregallery

#palmsartfestival #pacificpalmsartsinc #OneSquareGallery #BlueysBeach Visit barringtoncoast.com.au/events to see what's on around the region

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Reconnect

recharge AND

I N TH E B EAUTIF U L S U RRO U N DS OF TIONA 3 D AY W E L L N E S S R E T R E AT

Recharge your everyday wellness with GreenX7’s internationally renowned wellbeing consultant, Tim Jack Adams. Find personal, and collective, time out to reconnect and recharge on a three-day, two-night GreenX7 retreat, and experience a rejuvenating program designed to re-energise and refresh mind body and spirit. This exceptional wellness workshop retreat is founded on GreenX7 ‘Green Exercise’ principles through connecting us with the natural world – experience yoga and soul satisfying ‘green exercise’ workshops, guided cultural walks, stand up paddle boarding and a nourishing wholefood menu that is super

nutritious and über delicious. Join our friendly and knowledgeable facilitators, who have the skills and experience to not only educate and provide you with the everyday wellness tools, but to do so in a memorable and enjoyable way. It is with pleasure we invite you to join, connect to self, others and nature on the Worimi lands and waterways in our beautiful Barrington Coast destination just 3 hours’ drive north from Sydney, and only 10 minutes south of Forster, NSW.

STEVE BRERETON

TIM JACK ADAMS Tim is a wellbeing consultant, thought leader in his field who has created an overarching framework ‘Wellness Architect for Human Development, Experience and Change’. At the heart of everything Tim does, it’s about reconnecting people to themselves, each other and the natural environment.

Steve is a Worimi Guri (Aboriginal) from the Forster NSW/ Great Lakes area. Steve has worked locally and in the NSW Hunter region with many Aboriginal organisations and government departments. Steve’s guided tour incorporates the history, language, stories, traditional Worimi cultural beliefs and values.

VICKIE GERKEN

CHEF SARAH

CHARNE

Vickie is a highly accredited yoga teacher and therapeutic massager with over 25 years of self-exploration and study of ancient sciences. Vickie’s yoga practice supports others to live in harmony, through stillness, time in nature, daily grounding, focused breathing, body awareness.

With 20 years extensive experience in the hospitality industry, in Australia and abroad, classically-trained Chef Sarah, from Pacific Palms, specialises in whole foods, beautiful plates and feel-goodfood, prepared with passion.

Charne’s ASI-accredited Jungle Surf SUP (stand up paddle board) school is held in a safe and supportive flatwater environment on Wallis Lake. Paddle shoreline or explore the stunning waterways. The skilled SUP instructors provide lessons to all levels of participants.

Experience INCLUSIONS

02 6554 0291

tiona.com.au

Spacious accommodation (twin share cabin ) Gift bag / Nourishing meals / International Keynote wellbeing consultant GreenX7 workshop toolkit / 2 x yoga class / 1 x guided cultural walk 1 x stand up paddle board lesson / Self-guided bush walks

stay@ tiona.com.au

@tiona_nsw

4451 The Lakes Way, Pacific Palms (15 minutes south of Forster)

Photography by claudiagabriellim.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The flower that blooms in adversity is the rarest and most beautiful of all.â&#x20AC;?

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o said Walt Disney, the man who created ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’ and, in these particularly challenging times, Forster yoga studio owner and yoga

teacher, Mia Tycehurst, might be the first to agree with the Disneyland creator. “COVID has given us the boost to our confidence that we needed,” Mia says of the recent transition of Forster Yoga Studio, from Our new location Forster Towers to Wharf boasts enough space Street, overlooking the for 60 yogis, but to stay lake.

COVID-Safe we will “During lockdown, we be keeping our classes switched to offering our capped at 20. We have classes online and live, lots of room! and accessible at any time, and they turned out in and to visit, we wanted to be very popular with to create something our loyal members. We attractive to both locals noticed how yogis tuned in from near and far, and visitors. Our new location boasts enough and how there seemed to be a real need for space for 60 yogis, but to stay COVID-Safe we our style of classes – connectable, personal, yet will be keeping our classes capped at 20. We professional and relaxing. have lots of room!” Mia enthuses. “Once we were able to open again for classes, but with social distancing in place, the need for more space became more urgent. Before COVID, we had already set our eyes on a beautiful place on Wharf Street in Forster, six times larger than our existing studio, with floor to ceiling lake views. Most locals would know it as ‘the old Fitness 2428’.”

“There is a second studio space that can be used for practice or relaxation, at any time, with aerial yoga slings and yoga wheels on loan. And for those who prefer some tranquility from the chaos of work or family, we have added a meditation room where silence or healing sounds help you to calm down.

When Mia first saw the new location on Wharf Street, she was captured by the idea of doing yoga with lake views, and envisaged a whole collaborative hub of like-minded, holistic practitioners and events, in the spirit of selfactualisation and healing.

"We also have some amazing, talented experts coming in to offer various healing modalities through our growing hub. Nutrition, chakra healing, sound healing, trauma yoga, yin for teens, holistic counselling, crystal dreaming just to name a few! Call us the one stop shop for anything yoga!

“Because Forster is such a stunning place to live

“We are particularly excited about our spa

section of our hub, which boasts beautiful Tracey from Beauty Sanctum and her nourishing services such as facials, massage, and detox clay body wraps – anything organic and natural that makes you go “aaaahhhh”… Tracey's haven also hosts our first in-town Infrared Sauna, which is recommended by many progressive practitioners these days. IR sauna permeates your skin 5cm deep and promotes your body's own self healing and cleansing structures. It is great for injury recovery, helping with sleep issues, weight loss and detox, and gives your skin a young glow." For our tourists, we offer weekly, unlimited yoga passes and special packages for the addition of using the sauna before or after your classes. Locals are always invited to take up our 1 month intro offer for just $69. Forster Yoga Studio Level 1 Pacific Arcade, 48 Wharf Street, Forster forsteryogastudio.com.au

Wellness Directory BLOSSOM ORGANIC HAIR Shop 3 Cnr Head & Beach St Forster blossom.com.au 0415 105 431

PAUL KING MASSAGE

Forster Arcade 7, 41-43 Wharf St, Forster forsterbeautytherapy.com.au 02 6555 2025

THE BEAUTY ROOM FORSTER

111 MacIntosh St, Forster paulkingmassage.com 02 6555 4062

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FORSTER BEAUTY THERAPY

16A Pioneer Dr, Forster thebeautyroomforster.com.au 0466 675 679

the home of holidays

Photo. Chloe Smith

Play Things to See and do.

A WORLD OF WATER! Take your pick of beautiful beaches and ‘great lakes’ and enjoy the world of water on your doorstep. In it, on it, beside it or beneath it … get swimming, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, fishing, snorkelling or diving! All your watercraft needs can be hired at Boatsheds #1, #2, #3 on Little Street, Forster.

SEE THE SIGHTS ON A BIKE Serious cyclists can discover a number of great rides, extending all the way from Tea Gardens to Taree, via Forster and Seal Rocks, on the NSW Coast Cycle Trail. A 13km stretch of road cycle path links Tuncurry and Forster. Bike parking rails are located along Manning Street in Tuncurry, and at the Peel Street Woolworths Car Park. nswcoastcycle.com

GONE FISHIN’ The waterways in the Great Lakes region are vast – and clean. Even novice anglers are oddson to catch a flathead or two in Wallis Lake, while beach anglers could snag bream, whiting or tailor. Set yourself up on one of the many lakeside jetties in Forster Tuncurry or hire a boat and head out from the shore. Grab your beach rod and try your luck anywhere along the 40km of coastal beaches. The best bet for a takehome haul of yellowtail kingfish is on a deep-sea charter in the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, while estuaries and inshore reefs might just put mackerel or blue fin tuna on the dinner table!

CITY MOVIES @ COUNTRY PRICES Great Lakes Cinema 3, on the corner of Manning and Lakes Streets in Tuncurry, has three auditoriums screening the latest blockbusters – including digital 3D sessions, kids’ movies and arthouse titles. Best of all (aside from the candy bar stocked with everything, including must-have choc tops and popcorn!) are the affordable ticket prices. The Cinema is also fully accessible, catering for wheelchairs, and provides electronic assistance for people with hearing difficulties. greatlakescinemas.com.au In Taree, Fay’s Twin Cinemas on Oxley and Milligan Streets screens new blockbusters and 3D movies in two comfortable auditoriums, with full accessibility (one of the first buildings in Taree to be built with wheelchair accessibility throughout!) and electronic assistance for people with hearing difficulties. faystwincinemas.com.au

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SAND SURFING Grab a mat or body board and head to One Mile Beach in Forster for a ton of fun in the sun, sliding down the giant sand dunes. Dogs are also welcome at the northern end of the beach, off-leash before 9.00am and after 5.00pm. A great day out for the whole family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the fun is FREE!

A DAY AT THE RACES Experience all the charm, and fun, of a day at the Tuncurry track, home of the Tuncurry Forster Jockey Club. The atmosphere is welcoming at every one of the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family-friendly race day events, so you can really enjoy coastal country racing at its best! tuncurryforsterjockeyclub.com.au

Webster family love surfing the sand dunes at One Mile Beach Photo. Ainsley Webster

Forster

RELAX By the RIVER Days are for exploring the Barrington Coast and evenings for admiring the sunset over the Wallamba River at Discovery Parks - Forster. Spend time on the river fishing, kayaking and water skiing, the kids will love zooming around the bike pump track, and your dog will enjoy playing in our leash-free area complete with dog wash. Head online to book your stay and discover our latest accommodation offers.

Discovery Parks - Forster

99 Aquatic Road, Darawank NSW 2428 Phone 02 6554 2123

www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/forster Coast 51

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Photo. Mark Seabury

Whale watching is an awe-inspiring annual event along the NSW coast, and in the Great Lakes region we are fortunate to be able to boast some of the prime humpback whale watching experiences in the state! Each year, from late April until August, these magnificent marine mammals migrate north to mate in warmer waters returning south to calve, from September through to November.

1. Amaroo Cruises Set out on an unforgettable experience, from Forster, aboard Amaroo Cruises’ $2.1 million Whale Watching Adventure Cruise vessel, the Amaroo, and get up close with inquisitive humpback whales. Tours run from June to November, and there really is no better way to whale watch than from the very waters in which these majestic creatures cavort, leaping out of the water and smashing their huge tails and pectoral fins against the surface in awesome displays of acrobatics, often approaching the Amaroo for a closer look at you! amaroocruise.com.au 2. Cape Hawke Lookout From a dedicated tower set high above the coastline, take in the 360 ° view across One Mile Beach to Tuncurry for spectacular whale watching – just five minutes from Forster, in the Booti Booti National Park. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-todo/lookouts/cape-hawke-lookout 3. Saltwater Point You will be rewarded with awesome whale watching opportunities from the viewing platform at Saltwater Point in Saltwater National Park, a small coastal reserve east of Taree.

4. Wallabi Beach Also located in Saltwater National Park, Wallabi Beach is a great place to see all kinds of marine life, including bottle-nosed dolphins, and humpback whales in whale watching season. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/ parks/saltwater-national-park 5. Perpendicular Point An easy walking trail in Kattang Nature Reserve, near Taree, will deliver Perpendicular Point’s amazing views out to Port Macquarie and Diamond Head – ideal for whale spotting. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-todo/walking-tracks-perpendicular-pointwalking-track 6. Sugarloaf Point Home of the iconic and historic Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse, just east of Seal Rocks village, the coastal panorama from this headland is breathtaking. This Myall Lakes National Park lookout is a top spot for whale watching. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-todo/historic-buildings-places/sugarloafpoint-lighthouse

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7. Bennetts Head Lookout This prime whale watching spot in Forster sits high on the headland (accessed via Bennetts Head Road) with a walking track along the escarpment. 8. Nine Mile Beach (Tuncurry Beach) Bottle-nosed dolphins frolic in the southern end of the waters here, and the uninterrupted views from this long stretch of beach make for perfect whale watching conditions. 9. Forster Main Beach/Forster Break Wall Spot whales breaching on the horizon from the centre of town! Grab a coffee and enjoy the serenity – and the playful, resident bottlenosed dolphins. 10. Boomerang Beach & Blueys Beach These Pacific Palms surf beaches are made for whale watching from the sand – and dolphin pods are a frequent sight in the waters here, surfing and jumping over the white crests.

BONUS Bottle-nosed dolphins are a regular sight in these parts, enjoying their aquatic playground here for most of the year!

P L A Y

s an advanced surfer and coach I have spent my fair share of time in Pacific Palms and Forster over the past 15 years, and all for a very good reason.

surf coach COACH

With its crystal blue waters, glowing sandy shorelines, great restaurants – and almost always somewhere in the region playing host to great waves – it really is the advanced-tobeginner surfer’s perfect playground. On a recent coaching trip to Pacific Palms, we stayed a stone’s throw from the beach, in the Tiona Holiday Park beach house. We scored great waves straight out front, swam with dolphins and, after a great day of surfing, wandered across the road to the other side of Tiona Holiday Park to catch the sun setting behind the mountains over the majestic Great Lakes. It’s a pretty amazing combination – to have a breathtaking beach and lake, separated by only 100 or so metres. I guess for me, as an advanced surfing coach, it was the ideal meeting ground to snag great footage of Connor Lyons, Zane Assink and Noah Stocca. These boys always turn it on when the surf’s up, and Pacific Palms never disappoints. One thing is certain … after visiting this region, you always come back to your hometown feeling refreshed and stoked that you did it. Looking forward to the next trip already. Bring it on ! Stevo@thesurfcoach

ince 1997, Gary Hughes’ Surface – School of Surf & Surf Consultancy – has been operating Learn to Surf classes on some of the Great Lakes’ most amazing beaches – from Forster Tuncurry to Seal Rocks, and in the pristine waters of Pacific Palms’ trio of iconic surf beaches – Blueys, Boomerang and Elizabeth. In fact, it was Gary (Gaz) who founded the Boomerang Beach Board Riders Inc, and was its President for 18 years. The former World Tour (Top 44) professional surfer, and Executive Director of Surfing NSW has surfed the world for over fifty years and, as an accredited Surfing Australia (Level 2) Coach, offers bespoke classes for individuals and small groups focused on hands-on, quality tuition – and fun!

learn TO SURF

with Gaz Hughes

Gary and his team of instructors are expert surfers and always deliver the highest calibre experience, Comprehensively insured and fully accredited, classes at Gary Hughes Surface are suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced, from ages 4 to 76 years.

0434 645 796 garyhughes@dodo.com.au

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Barrington Falls, Barrington Tops National Park Image. John Spencer/DPIE

National Parks A bird’s eye view of our vast region would reveal the true extent of nature’s own colourful patchwork below.

panorama of mighty mountain ridges and rolling green hills, boundless aqua waters lapping at long golden stretches of sand, giant green umbrellas of rainforest canopy, clear blue lakes, translucent lagoons and the spectrum of earth tones on ancient rock formations. This beautiful part of the world has been blessed with more than its fair allotment of national parks and reserves, waterways and heritage conservation areas, so it’s only right that we invite you to share nature’s bounty!

he Great Lakes region is so named because, put simply, these three lakes – Smiths, Wallis and Myall – combine in a unique triple lakes system found nowhere else in Australia. Truly great!

animals, over 900 species of plants, and five threatened species – Freycinet’s frog, the green and golden bell frog, the greenthighed frog, the stuttering frog and the Australasian bittern.

But there is another trio of lakes – Myall Lake, Boolambayte Lake and The Broadwater – collectively known as The Myall Lakes, forming the largest natural freshwater lake system on the NSW coast, greater in size than Sydney Harbour.

The Myall Lakes Ramsar site receives around 100,000 visitors annually, and offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including camping, boating, four-wheel driving on beaches, swimming, bushwalking, cycling, fishing, tours, picnicking, nature appreciation and bird watching.

Located within the traditional lands of the Worimi people, and largely protected by the Myall Lakes National Park, the Myall Lakes Wetlands is a large coastal brackish lake system still in near-natural condition. Of such significance, the Ramsar Convention designated this 44,600ha site as a Wetland of International Importance in 1999. The site also supports over 400 species of Coast 54

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Rich in cultural and historic heritage, the Worimi people maintain an active interest in the management of the site, with over 600ha around Dark Point declared an Aboriginal Place under the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Act. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/ parks-myall-lakes-national-park

BETWEEN THE OCEAN AND THE LAKE

Booti Booti National Park Cape Hawke Lookout Image: John Spencer/DPIE

ooti Booti National Park stretches for 8km, edging along The Lakes Way between the Pacific Ocean and Wallis Lake, from Cape Hawke Lookout all the way to Boomerang Beach. Camp at The Ruins, or spend a day exploring this diverse terrain that features both beaches AND rainforests! For thousands of years, the Worimi Aboriginal people have lived on this land and used these waters. There are numerous culturally significant sites within Booti Booti where their artefact scatters, stone quarries, tool sites and shell middens have been preserved. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/ booti-booti-national-park

ANCIENT GONDWANA RAINFORESTS

Antarctic Beech Forest walking track, Barrington Tops National Park Image: John Spencer/DPIE

he World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia is some of the most extensive areas of diverse rainforest found anywhere in the world, comprised of a series of eight rainforest national parks and reserves in northeast NSW and southeast Queensland. Defined by their towering ancient trees, plunging waterfalls and craggy gorges, step into this magnificent world at Barrington Tops National Park, right on your doorstep! Enjoy guided tours, walks, waterfalls and scenic drives surrounded by ancient landscapes. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/ barrington-tops-national-park

THE DREAMING AND THE ABORIGINAL BIRIPI PEOPLE

altwater National Park near Taree is a popular place for bushwalking, kayaking, swimming and fishing, and famed for its surfing point break on the headland at Saltwater Beach. The park is also a declared Aboriginal Place, of cultural significance to the local Aboriginal Biripi people. Jointly managed by the National Parks & Wildlife Service, Aboriginal people and local residents, in association with Saltwater Tribal Council, the park has several very important sites related to the Dreaming. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/ saltwater-national-park

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Steps and track through mossy rainforest, Barrington Tops National Park. Photo. John Spencer/DPIE

Booti Booti Hill and Wallis Lake walking track

Explore! WALKS AND TRAILS

ooti Hill and Wallis Lake

This popular walking track edges along the shorelines of both the Pacific Ocean and Wallis Lake, with expansive views from the headland and trails through refreshing rainforest. Make a day of it and enjoy the scenic 7.3km loop at a leisurely pace. Beginning at the Ruins campground in Booti Booti National Park, head clockwise to the spectacular Seven Mile Beach. The sign-posted track will take you up the northern side of Booti Hill, and you’ll discover a number of beautiful spots to rest and refresh as you make your way to Seagull Point. The track emerges on the ridge above Lindemans Cove, joining a fire trail that leads to Elizabeth Beach – and a swim in the ocean! Back on the main walking track, cross the Lakes Way for the final 3.5km loop, following the shoreline of Wallis Lake back to the Ruins. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walkingtracks/booti-hill-and-wallis-lake-walking-track

Sugar Creek Trail A family-friendly wildlife-spotting walk in Wallingat National Park, Sugar Creek Trail winds through lush rainforest and dense palm forest, from your starting point at Sugar Creek picnic area. Along the 1.7km return trip, have fun

spotting wallabies, goannas and echidnas, black cockatoos and king parrots! nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walkingtracks/sugar-creek-trail

Cabbage Palm Loop Adventurers with some bushwalking experience will love this hour-long walk, also in Wallingat, starting at Sugar Creek picnic area. Follow the first section of Coachwood Walk to emerge on the Hotel Creek track, through Sydney blue gums, brushbox and cabbage tree palms to the sounds of nature’s own mimic, the lyrebird. There are over 200 species of bird found in and around this park. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walkingtracks/cabbage-palm-loop-walking-track

Mungo Brush Rainforest An easy 2km track takes you through rare coastal rainforest, full of colourful birds including golden whistlers and satin and regent bowerbirds. Brush turkeys are abundant here too! The loop track begins from the northern end of Mungo Brush Camping Area in Myall Lakes National Park. Follow the Tamboi walking track to the historic fishing village of Tamboi or, if you’re feeling energetic, take the longer Mungo walking track to Hawks Nest. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walkingtracks/mungo-rainforest-walk

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Yacaaba Headland Slightly more challenging is the 7km loop Yacaaba Headland walking track in Myall Lakes National Park. The steep gradient and rocky terrain rewards you with amazing coastal views of Seal Rocks and Tomaree Headland when you reach the ridge. Park at Jimmys Beach in Hawks Nest to begin your big day out, and finish your walk with a picnic and swim back at Jimmys. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walkingtracks/yacaaba-headland-walking-track

Ellenborough Falls Don't miss the opportunity to see the tallest single drop (200m) waterfall in the state – Ellenborough Falls – in the Manning Valley region of the Barrington Coast, at Elands. From the carpark at the top of the falls you can access two viewing platforms within just a short walk of each other, or take the timbered walkway on a 10-minute stroll to the viewing platform at The Knoll for an awesome top-tobottom vista of the falls. If you’re fit and up for the challenge, you won’t be disappointed tackling the 641 steps to the bottom of the falls, where a rock pool awaits. Cool off under the spray from the cascading waters above you! An unforgettable experience. visitmanningvalley.com.au/listing/ellenboroughfalls

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DOGS

Welcome!

Leash-free beaches and

ON HOLIDAY WITH YOUR POOCH?

ogs are welcome on holiday here too, and we have a number of beautiful beaches and parks where you and your four-legged family member can have fun in the sun to frolic, run, swim and play!

We’ve made it easy for the whole family to find the perfect spot to get out and about with our at-a-glance round up of dog-friendly beaches and parks. Please help us keep our beaches and parks pristine and clean for everyone to enjoy by remembering to bring your doggy-do bags and disposing of them responsibly! Fancy a pit stop for a coffee or refreshment? Some of our Cafés – including Beach Bums, Plunge, Tartt and Wingman in Forster; BIG4 Great Lakes Café Tuncurry, Bent on Food in Wingham, BlowFish at Old Bar and Harrigan's Irish Pub in Harrington, just to name a few – welcome your dog on a leash while you sip coffee and take in the local vibes!

open spaces

Some beaches and reserve/ park areas allow dogs off leash between specific hours, in designated zones, and with certain conditions; while others permit dogs only if they are on a lead. Please note that each area has specific leash-free and dog walking times. You can access further information by visiting midcoastnsw.gov.au/dogs FORSTER AND TUNCURRY One Mile Beach, Forster Cape Hawke Reserve, Forster Pipers Bay Foreshore Reserve, Tuncurry Beach Street Reserve, Tuncurry Nine Mile Beach, Tuncurry PACIFIC PALMS Blueys Beach Boomerang Beach Sandbar Beach, Smiths Lake Cellito Beach, Smiths Lake Coomba Foreshore, Coomba Park Coomba Park Reserve between Tallawalla Rd & Mooroba Rd Brambles Reserve, Tarbuck Bay HAWKS NEST & TEA GARDENS Bennetts Beach Providence Bay Yacaaba Peninsula GLOUCESTER/MANNING VALLEY Captain Cook Park, Gloucester Gloucester Park Saxby Park, Taree Mudbishops Point Road (known locally as ‘Second Corner’), Old Bar Charleys Island, Manning Point Farquhar Park, Mitchells Island

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DOGS INTRO Help a dog owner out … if you spot a dog pooping while their owner is distracted by a spectacular view or casual conversation, call out with a friendly “COOEE" to alert them, so they can promptly pooper scoop and keep our beaches and reserves clean!

Dashing Dogs

GROOMING SALON

nsuring your four-legged friend enjoys a calming grooming experience, Lynette Parmenter doesn’t use cages or tethering in her one-on-one grooming sessions. At Dashing Dogs Grooming Salon in Charlotte Bay, the Cert IV Vet Nurse, who turned her passion for grooming into a thriving business, puts your pet first, providing a homely environment to make your pooch feel safe and comfortable. Lyn also offers additional pampering services including nail clipping, ear cleaning and skin conditioning, for all breeds. 0407 068 256 @dashdog16

Photo. Amy Pearce

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ater refill Wstations

Download the Choose Tap app to find tap water on the go! Itunes or Google Play

Looking to fill up your water bottle? There are bottle refill stations across our area in public spaces. See the list below and also find them through the Choose Tap app. Boomerang Beach, north Bulahdelah showground Forster, Boronia Park soccer club rooms Forster, Main Beach at the pool Forster, Little Street Baths Gloucester, outside Denison St public toilets Hawks Nest, Providence Park Old Bar, next to Main Beach toilets Pacific Palms Surf Club Taree, Recreation ground building Taree, River Walk at the old pool

Taree, River walk at Pultney St (just past the play equipment) Taree, Little Athletics sportsfield clubhouse (end of Bligh St) Tea Gardens, Marine Drive Tinonee Recreation Grounds, soccer clubhouse Tuncurry, John Wright Park Tuncurry, South Street sports complex

water refil

Tuncurry Memorial Park Tuncurry rock pool Wingham, Central Park playground Wingham sportsground

MidCoast Council has invested in installing over 30 bottle refill stations in public spaces across the region, to help our community and visitors access quality drinking water while out and about enjoying the beautiful Barrington Coast.

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOT TO LOVE? Dear holiday-makers, Welcome! We hope you love our pristine beaches and sparkling waterways as much as we do. We work hard to keep our waterways clean and safe for everyone to enjoy. Please help us protect our beaches, rivers, parks and reserves by reducing the waste you make - use refillable water bottles and coffee cups, avoid single-use plastics - and dispose of your garbage responsibly. Find out about our waste-free approach, and how you can do your bit while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here, at www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/waste Re-imagine Waste is part of our commitment to reducing the amount of waste going to landfill.

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midcoast.nsw.gov.au

Yarads Menswear Forster and Taree

Shopping

Elk Willow Boutique, Gloucester

Holidays and shopping are not mutually exclusive interests! From souvenir pick-ups and everyday staples to vintage fossicking, highend shop-till-you-drop outings and the curios and collectibles waiting to be discovered at a funky, friendly market, a little bit of retail therapy is often great therapy when you’re in a new locale. Our climate and lifestyle really lends itself to getting outside, and early morning alfresco coffees and breakfasts and all-day dining out are the norm in these parts. Strolling main streets of towns and villages, side streets and beachfront esplanades, you’ll wander past a diverse, and often colourful, range of fantastic retailers who beckon you beyond mere window shopping. Casually meander and you will discover this is shopping without pressure; shopping for pleasure!

Artisan and Arty Across the Barrington Coast region there are a number of towns and villages where picking up a local memento means more than a flashy keyring or postcard purchase. Our artisans produce everything from jewellery, clothing and furniture to candles, body balms and homemade relishes. And that’s just for starters. The breadth of innovation, invention and creation on display is dazzling. Have something beautiful custom-designed by Michelle @ Michelle’s Jewellery in Tuncurry, and discover an extraordinary range of Australianmade leathergoods at Aussie Bush Leather on Forster’s famed Wharf Street.

Boutique fashion Boundless boutique windows will catch your eye … find chic contemporary fashion, comfortable and classy beach/pool/resort wear, locally-made, hand embellished and hand painted clothing, and fabulous oneoff pieces. The latest footwear fashions for men, women and kids, including brands like Coast 61

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Skechers, Converse and Nike along with Lacoste, Birkenstock, Clarks and Blundstone, among so many others, can be found at Manning Shoes, in two Forster locations on Wharf Street and in Stockland. Visit Yarrads Menswear on Wharf Street at Forster, in business since 1933 and stocking everything from RM Williams to Ben Sherman gear and Florsheim shoes, and pop into Whisper of Love, in Tuncurry for all the best ladies lingerie labels.

Retro and Vintage From clothes to collectibles, check out the eclectic op shops in the area, including Salvos and Vinnies, as well as a number of other great charity outlets. If you’re on the hunt for a vintage frock, priceless piece of porcelain or kitsch curio, start browsing. You’ll also find quaint second hand furniture stores and antique shops in many of the smaller villages across the region. Pop into Nabiac’s Vintage Magnolia (est. 2009), boasting an eclectic mix of quality vintage fashion, homewares, collectibles, upcylced furniture and unique gifts.

Coasting Home, Forster

Your favourite outlets Stockland Forster, on Breese Parade, is the home of familiar fashion retailers, including Cotton On, Rockmans, Millers, Sussan and Standbags, plus Woolworths, Coles and Aldi, Bakers Delight, food court fare, Cafés as well as banks and ATMs, nail salons, hairdressers and pharmacies. You’ll also find Bunnings and K Mart at Stockland.

Bent On Life, Wingham

Water gear Of course … it’s everywhere! Kit out the kids with everything they need to stay sun and water safe; grab sunglasses, hats, beach towels, tote bags and eskys, beach gear and toys, and the quintessential Aussie pair of thongs. Iguana Clothing at Forster sells fantastic streetwear and surfwear. We’re very proud of our surf culture – shop local for handmade, hand-painted custom surfboards, wetsuits and accessories, along with all of the popular big name surf brands.

Uptown Country Gloucester

Tullys Tuncurry Newsagency

And for all things fishing, Great Lakes Tackle, in the heart of Tuncurry, is your one-stop-shop!

Coast vibes What’s a coastal lifestyle without the quintessential Aussie bbq? Visit Barbeques Galore at Forster for all your barbie needs. Browse the wonderful titles of books at independently owned and lovingly curated The Sitting Wombat Bookshop on Wharf Street at Forster and soak up the coastal vibes at Coasting Home, also in Forster, where furniture, gifts and fashion all exude the laidback, casual ocean ambience of the area.

Barbeques Galore, Forster Tuncurry

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Garden goodies

LUMPYS NURSERY & GIFTS TUNCURRY

ll of your horticultural supplies and advice can be found at Lumpys Nursery & Landscape Yard on Chapmans Road, Tuncurry. The family-owned and run business provides personalised and specialist horticultural advice to ensure you make the right plant choice or get the right advice for plant problems. Jeff, Jenny and their team can also help with courtyard and garden makeovers! Pick up plants, pots, statues, ornaments, gifts and other garden goodies and, as a Participating Purchase and Redeem store, you can also purchase your #ShopMidCoast gift card at Lumpys.

FREE DELIVERY

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27 Chapmans Rd, Tuncurry NSW 2428 02 6557 6558 lumpys.com.au

Lumpys, Tuncurry

Flow Bar Old Bar

More retailers are joining daily … here are just a handful of local stores where you can purchase and spend gift cards. For all participating outlets visit whyleavetown.com/midcoast

Forster Tuncurry Barbeques Galore Forster FNT Brew & BBQ Supplies Little Mart Forster Lumpys Nursery Plunge Forster Café PJs Cheaper Choice Tull's News & Officesmart Tully's Tuncurry News

Delicious ice cream @ News Xpress, Cundletown and @ Tea Gardens Ice Cream Shack

PJ's Cheaper Choice Forster

Manning Shoes - Taree, Wharf Street & Stockland, Forster

#ShopMidCoast An initiative of MidCoast Council, in partnership with Why Leave Town Promotions, the #ShopMidCoast gift card is an opportunity for local businesses to provide customers with gift cards dedicated to the region. Developed with input from the local Business Chambers, the program gives you access to a vast and exciting array of local shopping opportunities across the MidCoast. Plus when you shop using your #shopmidcoast gift card you help stimulate our local economy and promote employment! Learn more about #shopmidcoast at midcoast.nsw.gov.au/shopmidcoast/home Purchase your #ShopMidCoast gift card online at Why Leave Town? whyleavetown.com/purchase-online Ladybug Shop, Gloucester

Plunge Café, Forster

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Gloucester Elk & Willow Boutique Ladybug Shop Uptown Country Pacific Palms Blueys Cellars Hawks Nest Hawks Nest Newsagency Old Bar Flow Bar Tea Gardens Tea Gardens Ice Cream Shack Taree Helloworld Travel Taree News Xpress Cundletown Wingham Bent On Life Wingham Newsagency & Gift Shop

EV NWO Y AE T H WL A CLEVER & EASY WAY TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY

BUY A FRIEND A GIFT THEY CAN USE ALL OVER THE REGION

eftpos GIFT card USE YOUR CARD FROM HAWKS NEST TO HARRINGTON,

FROM FORSTER TO BARRINGTON AND EVERYWHERE IN BETWEEN

Who is using it #shopmidcoast #whyleavetown

how do i get it

how do i use it

Local participating stores or online

Like an eftpos card at your fav places

Buy a gift card and #shopmidcoast www.whyleavetown.com/midcoast Coast 65

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Photo. Ben Adams

Special Moments

SPECIAL EVENTS TITLE PAGE/INTRO

One of the most important things we have taken away from 2020 is the inestimable value of the simple act of being able to get together with family and friends.

pecial occasions have taken on a whole new meaning, and a renewed sense of intimacy and celebration has become the focus of the way in which we now approach significant group events. From weddings and farewells, milestone birthdays, anniversaries and celebrating achievement, to business conferences and team building escapes, creating an unforgettable moment or two is more important than ever. The Barrington Coast is blessed with oodles of open space – and stunning picturesque backdrops that take your breath away. Celebrate by the beach, with Pacific Ocean views; celebrate in the lush hinterland with wide-reaching pastoral vistas; celebrate lakeside with the vast and tranquil waters stretching forever right in front of you; celebrate on mountains and headlands, in charming towns and villages,

at waterfront restaurants and at hotels and resorts.

self-contained apartments ideal for a big group of family and friends. Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club and the Surf Clubs In fact, The Mid North Coast of NSW is dotted along the the perfect place Barrington Mid North to tie the knot! Coast – One Mile Big shindigs and Forster, Elizabeth The Mid North Coast smaller gatherings, Beach, Jimmys Beach of NSW is the perfect formal and informal Tea Gardens – will place to tie the knot! Big weddings are all host your beautiful shindigs and smaller catered for – and reception right by you can take your gatherings, formal and the Pacific Ocean, or pick of perfect informal weddings are choose lake and river locations and all catered for outlooks at Mumms venues – from the on the Myall or premier function River Myall Resort at venue in the Bulahdelah. If it’s rustic Manning Valley, Golf Club Taree, to the waterside Harrigan’s and picturesque you’re after, Wallamba Downs in Nabiac offers a rural idyll, and Harrington Waters and the relaxed café/ exceptional customer service, with water bar music oasis that is Flow Bar, just 100m views, rolling hills and Mt Talahwahl as your from the beach at Old Bar. Seashells Resort backdrop! Diamond Beach has over 30 family-friendly Coast 66

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MAKE IT

Memorable Photo. Kirk Owers

THE GREEN CATHEDRAL This iconic outdoor church has been the site of extraordinarily beautiful weddings, vow renewals, funerals and baby blessings for many years. Its serene and unique setting, with natural wooden pews enclosed by a beautiful palm forest on the shores of Wallis Lake at Tiona, in the Booti Booti National Park, makes any special ceremony truly unforgettable.

4451 The Lakes Way, Tiona greencathedralministeries.com.au/bookings bookings@greencathedral.org.au 0490 143 995

THE PALMS PAVILION, TIONA Nestled within Tiona Holiday Park, between Forster and Pacific Palms, the waterfront Palms Pavilion is ideal for magical wedding receptions and spectacular events. From the full- length windows of the absolute lake frontage venue, beautiful lawns roll out and down to the very edge of Wallis Lake and capture picture perfect sunsets. A major makeover and extension, scheduled for completion by Christmas 2020, will unveil an impressive new-look Pavilion, designed by Ian Sercombe and Brett Bargallie. Palms Pavilion Weddings & Event Centre Contact Kelly McKillop Wedding & Event Manager 02 6554 0291 or 0427 965 258 weddings@tiona.com.au tiona.com.au

SEVEN MILE The much-anticipated opening of this new luxury wedding and function venue in Forster is slated for early 2021, in a coastal bush setting that will create the perfect venue for a memorable occasion for up to 200 guests cocktail-style and 120 guests banquet-style. sevenmile.com.au 02 6554 0291 or 0427 965 258

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Memorable MAKE IT

CAKES

cakesbycandib.com.au thecakequeen.com.au sugarartcakestaree.com.au

ENTERTAINMENT jakedaveymusic.com ReubenCarrMusic/facebook topsentertainment.com.au

cakesbycandib.com.au

congrats Mr&Mrs Collocott plungeforster.org

Pop Corn Photography

Photo. Kirk Owers

FLORIST

rositaflowers.com.au gingermegs.com.au thebouquetmaker.com.au GreenRoomBotanicals/facebook

CELEBRANTS

dovetailcelebrants.com.au doublehappinessceremonies.com.au sarahjulian.com ceremoniesbylorrainewafer.com.au

CATERING

bentonfood.com.au plungeforster.org mumsontherun/facebook seaandsalt.com.au

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PRECIOUS MOMENTS WEDDINGS BY AWARD WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER

HAIR & MAKEUP

shanechalkerphotography.com.au

StellarWeddingsHair&Makeup/facebook aaquamarinemedispa.com.au VanitySkin&Beauty.com.au OneHair&Beauty.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY

shanechalkerphotography.com.au kirkowersphotography.com.au benadams.com.au homestories.com.au claudiagabriellim.com

STYLING

martinandko.com.au thebohostylingco.com.au whitepalmsweddings.com.au

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Photo. Shane Chalker

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BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME IN IDYLLIC KARUAH New ‘The Ironbark’ residential living opportunity

fter the huge success of its 37-site residential development, “River Oak Estate”, Coastal Developments (NSW) Pty Ltd has responded to demand with an extensive development three times the size in idyllic Karuah, just 45 minutes from Newcastle and 2.5 hours’ drive from Sydney. “The Ironbark” is the latest addition to the beautiful village of Karuah, and is conveniently situated between the Golf Course and the town centre. When completed, The Ironbark is anticipated to comprise 113 residential sites across 10ha of lush countryside. Each parcel of land ranges from approx. 580m2 - 900m2, with an average size of 650m2. Build your dream home in this picturesque location, renowned for its local oysters and historic timber trade.

Karuah was originally called Sawyers Point, and the Karuah River was first named the Clyde River by Governor Lachlan Macquarie. Both names were eventually changed to Karuah, believed to be a Worimi Aboriginal word meaning "native plum tree”, although some suggest Karuah may mean "plenty of fish", "fast flowing water" and even "big water hole".

boating and a whole host of recreational activities. Jetties and boat ramps are plentiful, and Longworth Park is ideal for a picnic or a swim in the tidal pool.

The town has experienced much growth in recent years, and is flourishing into a modern residential town with the benefit of easy river access to the Greater Port Stephens and Great Lakes waterways, ideal for swimming, fishing,

Secure your future now!

If you are looking to escape the city life to a peaceful bushland setting and enjoy the lifestyle that Karuah has to offer, this is the perfect opportunity for you. For more information contact Ray White Tea Gardens Hawks Nest 02 4997 9022 or Dowling Medowie (02) 4982 8955

NEW LAND RELEASE KARUAH

ROAD

426

209

210

656.3 m ²

779.4 m ²

16.85

20.305

511

311

309

310

208

206

207

205

108

109

107

106

520

521

519

518

15.75

14.055

33.195

15.75

12.2

15.75

731.5 m ²

5.6

15.75

668.8 m ²

16.9

103

17.7

5.6

410

409

A9.805

5.6

20.075

29.52

18.075

ROAD

12.91

15.26

614

PT. 114

837.9 m ²

34.115

16 WIDE

15.15

34.64

17.32

613

610

609

608

607

620.4 m ²

620.2 m ²

620.1 m ²

620 m ²

619.8 m ²

15.26

15.15

708 m ²

708.5 m ²

17.32

18.115

Stuart Sinclair – P 4997 9022 M 0488 133 998 STREET

MGA

Tea Gardens / Hawks Nest

34.64

5.7

606 36.88

1416 m ² 625 m ²

12.95

40.875

40.885

40.915

40.905

40.925

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605

6.0

611

GEORGE

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15.15

40.935

Neil Ross – P 4982 8955 M 0427 828 641

726.1 m ²

33.94

612

40.955

DRAINAGE RESERVE

Medowie

618

829.4 m ²

46.355

15.15

40.945

PT. 621

40.965

53.01

131

STAGE 1 SELLING NOW

A18.39

A15.745

DRAINAGE RESERVE

STAGE

36.355

16 WIDE

686 m ²

5.1

626.7 m ²

15.34

ROAD

626.7 m ²

12.585

DRAINAGE RESERVE A12.

4.645

19.82

0.44 A14.70

15.545

16.9

604

17.4

16.9

743.4 m ²

16.01

16.9

854.2 m ²

50.315

619

21.2

16.9

27.53 54.53

603

34.67

617

616

708.2 m ²

41.91

16.9

615 PT. 621

620

16.9

401 731.1 m ²

41.78

604.7 m ²

14.77

41.78

604.7 m ²

16.045

41.78

12.9

604.7 m ²

14.36

.31

12.9

402

604.7 m ²

600 m ²

14.36

16.9

403

604.7 m ²

29.78

16.9

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604.7 m ²

600 m ²

14.53 32.23

35.78

16.9

405

35.78

16.9

406

35.78

16.9

407

35.78

16.9

408

596.7 m ²

35.78

604.7 m ²

35.78

604.7 m ²

5.6

604.7 m ²

35.78

604.7 m ²

31.78

35.78

55 5.6

604.7 m ²

607.1 m ²

17.7

16.375

16.9

602 889.2 m ²

ROAD

16.9

30.615

16.9

601

25.915

16.9

30.565

753.2 m ²

16.5

16.9

739.5 m ²

16.9

32.99

504 878.1 m ²

737.4 m ²

31.13

21.2

411

16.9

696.3 m ²

505

26.24

412

16.9

514

33.295

744.8 m ²

34.705

16 WIDE

16.9

DRAINAGE RESERVE

6.0

27.23

413 35.78

35.78

31.78 12.3

414

16.9

515

41.91

415

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416

575.2 m ²

16.9

12.74

516 41.78

16.9

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14.36

517 41.78

16.9

16.3

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83.56

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41.78

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41.78

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104 35.78

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16.85

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16.9

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31.78 596.7 m ²

596.7 m ²

16.85

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202 35.78

31.78

604.7 m ²

ROAD

604.7 m ²

35.78

604.7 m ²

35.78

604.7 m ²

35.78

604.7 m ²

35.78

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35.78

31.78

575.2 m ²

12.9

201

308

13.7

503 881.3 m ²

506

12.9

16.85

917.3 m ²

EASEME

16.9

307

704 m ²

18.205

16.9

306

704 m ²

16.9

305

16.9

304

5.6

16.9

303

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16 WIDE

16.9

302

704 m ²

22.7

ROAD 12.3

301

704 m ²

TAREAN

658 m ²

27.635

658 m ²

20.505

658 m ²

ROAD

658 m ²

20.75

658 m ²

5.1

1386 m ²

743.3 m ²

37.97

ISSION

587.2 m ²

14.795

658 m ²

507

25.5

TRANSM

658 m ²

18.62

658 m ²

5.6

12.2

658 m ²

828.8 m ²

25.625

647.4 m ²

41.91

41.78

37.78

41.78

37.78

512

33.175 668.8 m ²

502

35.825

18.83

312

19.07

313

781.1 m ²

40.97

20.25

314

20.06

315

38.055

43.905

508

675.1 m ²

16 WIDE

316 41.78

37.78

ROAD

317

754.3 m ²

38.55

RESERVE 22.545

704 m ²

16.85

501

44.7

DRAINAGE

22.44

704 m ²

16.85

36.485 884 m ²

18.415

704 m ²

16.85

43.775

509

18.63

704 m ²

17.7

29.8

22.28

731.5 m ²

510

22.07

33.195

STAGE

6.0

23.955

41.915

16.2

525 41.785

668.8 m ²

15.75

524 41.785

658 m ²

15.75

16.85

523 41.785

658 m ²

15.75

16.85

522 41.78

658 m ²

15.75

37.78

658 m ²

15.75

16.85

113

658 m ²

15.75

112

16.85

41.78

37.78

658 m ²

1 ROAD

41.78

15.75

111

41.78

658 m ²

15.75

110

41.78

658 m ²

15.75

212

41.78

658 m ²

14.055

41.78

15.75

41.78

658 m ²

15.75

41.78

658 m ²

15.75

41.78

658 m ²

15.75

41.78

658 m ²

211

16 WIDE 13.7

425

STAGE

5.8

424

12.2

423

15.75

5.6

422

15.75

15.385

421

15.75

5.3

15.75

19.29

15.75

31.57

STAGE

15.75

41.78

16.2

41.78

37.78 668.8 m ²

15.75

15.53

420

15.75

419

15.75

5.1

418

STAGE

15.75

19.29

15.75

23.07

15.75

417

STAGE

15.75

5.6

12.2

STUART SINCLAIR

BIG YEAR FOR RAY WHITE TEA GARDENS HAWKS NEST

Merging two leading real estate agencies has placed the award-winning principal of Ray White Tea Gardens Hawks Nest, Stuart Sinclair, at the helm of a powerhouse team that combines the longevity and local knowledge of Tea Gardens Real Estate and the dominance and expertise of Stuart’s Ray White Real Estate franchise. And he couldn’t be happier!

nder Stuart's professional management, Ray White Tea Gardens Hawks Nest has had remarkable success, achieving Premier Member status in 2015/2016 and Elite Performer status in 2017/2018/2019 and again in 2020. Stuart also ranks as 4th successful regional Principal across Ray White's 80 regional offices. Trading as Ray White Tea Gardens Hawks Nest, Stuart says the exciting new enterprise will continue to deliver the same integrity, local knowledge and great customer service for which it is renowned. Coast 72

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“Ethics and honesty play a vital part in securing our prominent position in the market place,” he says. “Our staff will remain the same, and we are positive that the one agency will continue to service the residents and purchasers in our areas with everything that one would expect from a professional agency.”

Ray White Tea Gardens Hawks Nest specialises in residential, rural, and commercial sales, in addition to both permanent and holiday rentals in Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest, and surrounding areas from the Oyster Capital of Karuah, to the Hilltops of Wootton. Property in the area is always in demand. Stuart says that while “our slice of coastal paradise” has historically attracted holidaymakers and retirees, the market is changing. “The majority of The majority of purchasers in our purchasers in our area area are out of region are out of region buyers. buyers. They have They have cashed in cashed in their farms their farms and city and city lifestyles for lifestyles for a much a much more relaxed more relaxed way of life way of life enjoying enjoying the Myall Lakes the Myall Lakes and and pristine beaches. pristine beaches. The lengthy road trip into wonderful climate and the area, Tea Gardens the affordability of has become the homes, compared to alternative, just 10 the city or coastal areas minutes off the highway closer to Sydney, are and you are in town. what appeal most, and we’ve even noticed a “Our agency offers an extensive range of trend of people buying now in anticipation of holiday rentals, from cosy cottages with retirement down the track. Prices are still in the fireplaces perfect for winter, to river & realm of reality and the purchasers can get a beachfront homes and apartments perfect solid rental income on the property until they for summer. We have properties that sleep wish to retire up here. 2, perfect for a romantic weekend away, “The ease of getting in and out of our area from the highway is also drawing more enquiries. Port Stephens was in high demand for its retirement lifestyle, but with the long queues of traffic during holidays and the

and properties that sleep 15, perfect for the multi-family getaway. We also have a number of specialist listings including commercial and retail properties, rural properties, and “The Ironbark”, a new residential development in Coast 73

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the beautiful countryside of Karuah. “There are so many reasons people choose to come to the Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest area, and most of those are because this truly is a coastal paradise! Endless water sports on the Myall River, Bennett's Beach or the crystal clear bay of Jimmy's Beach; climbing to the top of Yacaaba Headland to take in the magical views, heading to the Golf Club, or Bowling Club … the list is never ending!”

Tea Gardens Hawks Nest 83 Marine Drive Tea Gardens 02 4997 1300 raywhiteteagardenshawksnest.com.au

Reflections Holiday Park

your own slice of serenity. Many are also pet friendly, so your beloved four-legged family member gets to enjoy a holiday too – don’t forget to ask when you make your booking.

o steal an oft-quoted line from the 1997 Australian film, “The Castle” – “How’s the serenity?” Uttered by dad, Darryl Kerrigan, pleased as punch as he casts his eye across the familiar lake vista on his annual family regional holiday, “How’s the serenity” perfectly encapsulates the feelings so many of us have when we finally escape the city for a relaxed getaway in the great outdoors. Aussies love camping, and caravanning – a road trip with van or trailer hooked up to the

And ‘holiday park’ almost seems to sell these fabulous destinations short – award-winning, allencompassing, activity-laden, facilities at your fingertips, contemporary cabin accommodation options and entertainment galore, our holiday parks are much more worthy of With luxurious and the name “Resort”! While well-appointed cabins, family holidays are always deluxe beach villas, popular, more and more car, on the wide-open glamping, Wi-Fi and couples and groups of road heading to a great coffee, there’s no friends are discovering destination guaranteed need to forfeit every how perfect these to offer up nature and modern convenience beautiful parks are for the fun for everyone. for a fabulous off-grid ultimate relaxation. And Holiday Parks on the getaway! with luxurious and wellNSW MidCoast are appointed cabins, deluxe sensational places to beach villas, glamping, stay and play! We’ve Wi-Fi and great coffee, there’s no need to forfeit got all your options covered … from back-toevery modern convenience for a fabulous offbasics bush retreats and secluded valleys, to grid getaway! gorgeous riverside, lakeside and beachside parks with all mod cons AND space to enjoy

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Here’s just a taste of some our best …

ollowing a $6 million upgrade in ecoaccommodation, guest lounge and playground, Reflections Holiday Park at Seal Rocks was a recent winner in the 2020 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award, and in 2019 won Gold at the North Coast Tourism Awards and Silver at the NSW Tourism Awards. Iconic Seal Rocks has long been a go-to coastal destination for holidaymakers looking to escape the crowds and kick back. Aside from great powered sites for campers and caravanners, the park also provides a range of cabins, including luxurious beach bungalows, and glamping for creature comfort camping! Seal Rocks Holiday Park Kinka Road, Seal Rocks 02 4997 6164

The name Forster Beach Holiday Park tells you most of what you need to know about this great park and its location – just a short walk to everywhere and everything, allowing you to put away the car keys and really relax. What its name doesn't reveal is the magnificent view over Wallis Lake and Tuncurry from the balcony of your private villa on Pilot Hill, and the lake views from your tent or van from one of the elevated sites. There are even larger sites available so you can bring your boat and really enjoy Wallis Lake. Forster Beach Holiday Park 1 Reserve Road, Forster 02 6554 6269 Beach holiday bliss is guaranteed at Hawks Nest Holiday Park (Bennetts Beach) and Coast 75

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Jimmys Beach Caravan Park and Resort, also at Hawks Nest. The Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens area boasts so many popular beaches, if it’s a sun, surf and sand-betweenyour-toes holiday you’re looking for, these two parks have you covered! The park at Jimmys Beach offers both powered and unpowered sites, cabins to suit all budgets and glamping, while Hawks Nest park options include simple beach shacks or deluxe cabins, and large powered sites. Hawks Nest Holiday Park Booner Street, Hawks Nest 02 4997 0239 Jimmys Beach Caravan Park & Resort Coorilla Street, Hawks Nest 02 4997 0466

Forster

Wallamba River, at Darawank, and it’s no surprise that families return here year after year to experience the fishing, kayaking, boating and water skiing the riverside location provides. From Discovery Parks - Forster you can also explore the coast and hinterland 99 Aquatichere Road, Darawank NSW 2428 national parks, lookouts and bountiful beaches. Phone 02 6554 2123 Stay in selected pet-friendly cabins and sites, let your pooch frolic in the leash-free area, and join www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/forster the Discovery Barks Walk every Sunday from 8am. At day’s end, your pup can enjoy a dog wash and blow dry for just $10! Discovery Forster Holiday & Caravan Park 99 Aquatic Road, Darawank 02 6554 2123

e all know the name – and on the Barrington Coast you will find BIG4 parks spread across the region. Each is found in a different setting but all offer a variety of accommodation options including modern, selfcontained cabins, a choice of powered/unpowered sites and a raft of top-notch amenities and facilities. At BIG4 Great Lakes Holiday Park at Tuncurry a valet tractor service will even park your van for you! Take advantage of all the water recreation activities this absolute lake frontage park affords – and there are even private boat ramps. Kids will love the heated swimming pools and waterpark, and you can still start your day with a coffee, straight from the onsite café!

The new BIG4 River Myall Holiday Resort at Bulahdelah lays on ultra contemporary style and modern luxuries with all of the back-to-nature benefits of a 20ha site by the Myall River. Brand new villas, entertainment galore and even a new DIY Dog Wash facility are part of the holiday package here.

BIG4 Great Lakes Holiday Park 1 Baird Street, Tuncurry 02 6554 6827

BIG4 River Myall Holiday Resort 57 Stroud Street, Bulahdelah 02 4987 9281 Coast 76

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Margaret Shannon Business Operations Manager Tiona Holiday Park

at Tiona

EXCITING EXPANSION FOR MUCH LOVED HOLIDAY PARK Photo @operationodyssey

nder new ownership and management since December 2019, the provenance of this uniquely located holiday park dates back almost a century. Set on 32ha (80 acres) of

"We don't compete with nature, we aim to complement it, and facilitate access to the lake, beach, rainforest and surrounding Barrington Coast region."

coastal rainforest, with the shallow clear waters of Wallis Lake on one side and the popular fishing and surfing beach of Seven Mile on the other, the landowners, Community of Christ, chose the site back in 1923 as a space for their members to come together each year. With no road, and only water access, via a 360m long jetty, the Community’s annual "Reunion" was an escape for families and friends to camp, play and relax together in nature. Over the decades, this coastal paradise grew in popularity, and amenity, eventually evolving into the modern natural holiday destination it is today. Exciting plans, and significant capital investment, are in place to upgrade the park over the coming months and years, with the first phase of the makeover already completed, including reverse split systems installed in all ensuite cabins, spacious balconies on the Beach

Spa cabins, four new cabins on the Glades bank, overlooking the Lake flat, and Wi-Fi installed park-wide. Lodge rooms have also been treated to a refresh, as has the office and kiosk area.

Business Operations Manager for Tiona Holiday Park, Margaret Shannon, says the new owners, managers and park team are committed to delivering improved accommodation, facilities, and processes to ensure an unforgettable holiday experience. “Everything we do is designed with the guest experience in mind first and foremost. Our whole ethos of "Find Your Space" reflects that different people come to Tiona for different Coast 78

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reasons – some as a space to stay, some as a space to relax, or explore, and some as a space to connect with each other, with nature

and with themselves. “We don't compete with nature, we aim to complement it, and facilitate access to the lake, beach, rainforest and surrounding Barrington Coast region.“ Despite the challenges of bushfires in December 2019 and January 2020, floods in February and the advent of COVID-19 in March, Margaret says the team effort to move forward with the Tiona vision for the future has been exemplary, reflected in the positive feedback from guests.

Photo.

jezzseka.brown

“We've had so many comments about how great the park is looking, how much work has been done and how friendly the vibe is from the team, and it’s only the beginning! One of the most exciting projects is our plan to makeover and extend the conference centre to feature an impressive new Pavilion, designed by Ian Sercombe and Brett Bargallie, and take advantage of the centre’s unrivalled waterfront setting to make a fabulous venue even better. We hope to have those renovations complete by Christmas this year. “It has been a phenomenal eight months here at this beautiful park; and I'm so proud of what we have achieved so far. Tiona has always had incredible potential, and we’re here to turn that potential into an exciting and quality holiday destination for everyone to experience – one that draws our guests back, time and again! ”

About

TIONA

Tiona Holiday Park is nestled between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach, the cabbage tree palm-studded shores of Wallis Lake and the spectacular Booti Booti National Park, in beautiful Pacific Palms, NSW. Only 15 minutes from Forster, but a world away in ambience, the eco-retreat style precinct is pet-friendly and offers camping, caravanning and cabins that invite guests to “Find Your Space” – for families, for the surfers, the working holiday makers, the wanderers and the dreamers. The conference and event venue, close to both Forster and Pacific Palms, is perfect for retreats and conferences, where you can start the day with yoga on the foreshore as the sun slowly peeks through the trees. Private events are also welcome.

@nimrodhoubani

@visivoartprints

Tiona Holiday Park 4451 The Lakes Way, Pacific Palms 02 6554 0291 tiona.com.au #findyourspace Coast 79

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#1 highest rated BIG4 holiday park for 2020!

magic Resort B I G 4 R i v e r m ya l l

ussie families love a great outdoor holiday and the new BIG4 River Myall Holiday Resort at Bulahdelah, set on over 20ha by the Myall River, offers the ideal back-to-nature experience for all ages – with the added convenience of modern luxuries. Do as little, or as much, as you want … with a side order of days on the water. Whether you pitch a tent or park your caravan on one of the resort’s spacious sites, or opt to flop-and-drop in your brand new home-away-from-home Villa, BIG4 River Myall has a wide range of onsite recreation and entertainment facilities that ensure everyone has a great holiday, quite aside from the abundant adventures this natural setting provides. From the resort pool with slide, giant jumping pillow, games room and full size tennis court to bbqs, laundry facilities and the new DIY Dog Wash, every member of your family is catered for here. Multi-generational holidays are easy at BIG4 River Myall, with brand new air-conditioned Deluxe Villas sleeping up to six people and featuring a queen size bed, double bed, ensuite plus main bathroom, spacious living and dining, fully-equipped kitchen and

verandah with large outdoor setting. The resort also offers a two bedroom accessible cabin with a queen size bed and double bed. Days on the water, stolen moments of peace, and a true sense of escape – experience riverfront magic at BIG4 River Myall Holiday Resort. BIG4 River Myall Holiday Resort 57 Stroud Street, Bulahdelah 02 4987 9281

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the home of holidays

Explore our our Explore

and forests forests coast and Nature Nature hosts hosts the the best best stories stories

BD1229/1019

Explore the natural beauty of our national parks, Explore the natural beauty of our national parks, from a spectacular coastline to forests 1500m from a spectacular coastline to forests 1500m above sea level. Visit for the day or stay for a few above sea level. Visit for the day or stay for a few nights to immerse yourself in this incredible region. nights to immerse yourself in this incredible region. Stroll along sandy beaches or bushwalk in Stroll along sandy beaches or bushwalk Booti Booti National Park, enjoy boating orin4WD Booti Booti National enjoy boating or 4WD touring in Myall LakesPark, National Park, discover the touring in Myall Lakes National Park, discover historic Mountain Maid gold mine in Copeland the historic Mountain Maid gold in Copeland Tops State Conservation Areamine or explore World Tops State Conservation Area or explore World The Ruins campground, Booti Booti National Park. Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park, John TheSpencer/DPIE Ruins campground, Booti Booti National Park. Heritage-listed Barrington Tops National Park, home to incredible Gondwana Rainforests. John Spencer/DPIE home to incredible Gondwana Rainforests. Enjoy the region for longer by camping at one of Enjoy thecampsites, region for staying longer by at one of For more information visit nationalparks.nsw.gov.au multiple in acamping cottage or more information visit nationalparks.nsw.gov.au multiple campsites, staying in aatcottage or orFor download the NPWS app experiencing a unique getaway Seal Rocks or download the NPWS app experiencing a unique getaway at Seal Rocks Lighthouse Cottages. Lighthouse Cottages.

BD1229/1019

Photo: John Spencer/DPIE Photo: John Spencer/DPIE

Good to KNOW

TURN ON YOUR

COVID-SAFE MESSAGE

The MidCoast region of NSW, including the Barrington Coast, wants you to stay safe and well. Our councils, businesses and the community adhere to constantly updated Australian Government, NSW Government and NSW Health COVID-Safe protocols and practices. Stay up-to-date with the latest COVID-Safe information at: nsw.gov.au/covid-19 nsw.gov.au/covid-19/what-you-can-and-cant-do-under-rules nsw.gov.au/covid-19/how-to-protect-yourself-and-others/clinics

Photo.

hubjack70

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE REGION AND ITS ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS

Destination Barrington Coast barringtoncoast.com.au/visit-us barringtoncoast.com.au/events

LOCAL RADIO!

Tune into great music, sports, weather and conversations

GREAT LAKES 101.5 FM greatlakesfm.org.au 2BOB RADIO 104.7 FM 2bobradio.org.au MAX 107.3 FM max1073.com.au

GO CLEAN AND GREEN!

Please help us to keep our beautiful waterways, beaches and nature reserves clean and pristine. Go green by disposing of waste responsibly and reducing waste wherever you can – find our water refill stations via the Choose Tap app; download the Green Caffeen swap ‘n’ go coffee cup scheme app for participating Cafés in the region.

#shopmidcoast #barringtoncoast #explorebarringtoncoast

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STEP ABOARD THE AMAROO a sleek, fast 24m catamaran

FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURE!

AMAROO

Bookings Phone 0419 339 446 Visit amaroocruise.com.au Memorial Drive, Forster NSW

Photo. Jack Hubbard