CHILLING OUT IN AUTUMN
What a great time to slow things down as we welcome cooler temperatures, shorter days, and sparkling landscapes tinged with yellows, reds and golds.
It’s the perfect time of year to get back to nature, and while we all know our region is famous for its natural environment, we’re proud to announce that Barrington Coast is now a certified Eco Destination. That means we’ve been recognised by Ecotourism Australia for our commitment to sustainability at an international best practice standard. Read on to learn more about Ecotourism, and how you can take advantage of this worldwide trend right here in your own backyard.
And it’s on for young and old when it comes to our community this season, with plenty of activities on offer during NSW Youth Week and NSW Seniors Festival.
We also say a collective thankyou during National Volunteer Week to the 10,000+ of you who volunteer in some capacity across the MidCoast. Enjoy the best of the MidCoast this Autumn.
Now’s the time to think about your unique strengths and passions, and to celebrate Youth Week with a range of exciting events delivered by local host groups across the region. Scan below to find out what’s on near you. Youth Week 9 – 17 APRIL 2025
Are you aged 12 to 24?
RECOGNISE A YOUNG ACHIEVER
Nominations for the 2025 MidCoast Youth Awards open early April so make sure the outstanding young people in our region are given the boost that they deserve.
See what’s on near you and nominate now!
We are now Eco Destination certified!
Ecotourism is one of the fastest growing sectors in tourism worldwide, so we’re proud to announce our accreditation from Ecotourism Australia as an Eco Destination, one of just 13 regions in Australia.
Much more than just being “ecofriendly”, the certification recognises our commitment to a better future: actively protecting and restoring our natural environment while preserving our unique wonders and cultures for current and future generations to enjoy.
Find out where to go, places to stay, and things to do for a worldclass ecotourism experience right here in the Barrington Coast.
Ecotourism stays
Looking to escape your everyday? Find one of our local accommodation providers who are committed to looking after the environment, reducing carbon footprints, and protecting unique wildlife … all while providing an unforgettable guest experience.
Be embraced by nature
Whether you’re camping, hiking or just breathing in the fresh air, be inspired by our naturebased experiences. Take in our sparkling waterways, the state’s tallest single-drop waterfall, and camp alongside locals with feathers, fur, pouches or fins.
Leave no trace
It’s up to all of us look after the natural attractions that we love, and that attract visitors to our region. You can do your part by being conscious of how your presence impacts the places you visit and leaving a place the same way you’d like to find it.
Our sensational seniors
Less about age, they’re wiser, more experienced, and make up more than a third of our population!
As young adults in the 60s and 70s, our seniors were at the forefront of change, sported fashion that inspires today’s designers, and listened to some of the world’s most enduring musicians. They welcomed colour TV and the first computers, wore platform shoes and psychedelic prints. There’s no better time to connect with a senior—you might be surprised just how
cool their generation is! Their knowledge, experience, and contributions make them a vital part of our community. That’s why we’re inviting our seniors to celebrate with us during NSW Seniors Festival, 3 – 16 March. See what’s happening by heading online, or picking up a copy of the program at your local library. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/SeniorsFest
“What
We asked our seniors
would you ‘give a go’ if you could try something new?
I would learn to fly! Simply because I find planes and flight amazing.
MICHAEL, 70’ISH
I’d like to go on a boat cruise because I haven’t done that yet. PAT, 81
Deep sea fishing to land a 300 pound marlin. JOHN, 74
I would learn to fly a plane, so I can experience the adventure of looking out at the world from above.
SUSAN, 72
we’re a work in progress
Do you sometimes feel like the work we do in and around your local area is never ending? We do too.
That’s partly because of the ongoing nature of the hundreds of services we deliver, but also because our region is home to around 100,000 people in 195 towns and villages, spread over 10,052km2. It’s a lot.
When it comes to government in Australia, local councils are considered the “third tier” even though it’s acknowledged they have the biggest impact on people’s day-to-day lives. Councils provide “on the ground” services to communities that would be virtually impossible for state and federal governments to deliver.
Here in the MidCoast region, just some of the work you might see us doing in your area includes:
• maintenance of local roads and footpaths
• works to upgrade water or sewer pipes
• collection of kerbside bins
• mowing of sportsfields, parks and reserves
• playground maintenance and repairs
• clean-up and repairs to vandalised amenities
We know we have a big job ahead of us. That’s why we’re a work in progress. We’re your work in progress.
GIVE THE GRAPEVINE A MISS
We know getting to the facts can be frustrating. Keeping everyone updated on the work we’re doing across the region can be challenging. Especially with 100,000 locals sharing messages across an area the size of Jamaica. Get the right information at the right time by registering for our weekly email newsletter.
midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Facts
If you’ve got it, spend it.
From cafes to chemists, facials to florists, and everything in between, you’ll find over 300 local businesses where you can spend your ShopMidCoast gift card. Head online now and search by location, or by the type of store you’re looking for. whyleavetown.com/midcoast
How well do you know your fellow MidCoast’ers? This quiz is all about us and the people that make our communities so great.
1. The MidCoast is home to approximately how many people? ☐ 72,000 ☐ 89,000 ☐ 100,000
2. What percentage of people living here are 60+?
3. What percentage identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders?
4. How many of us volunteer in some capacity?
5. What percentage of our community were born overseas?
Find the answers at
midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Seasonal-Edition
Got a problem? Tell us about it. With over 10,000km2 to cover, delivering your every day services like roadworks, water, and bin collections, can be challenging. If you have an issue that needs addressing, use our report and request system to let us know. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/report
secret virtues of volunteering
Volunteers play a vital role in strengthening our community, but the lesser-known benefits of volunteering are more self-centred than you might have guessed. Here’s five reasons why it’s good for you.
01 CONFIDENCE
Taking on new challenges and responsibilities can boost confidence and build self-esteem that sets you up for success in other parts of your life.
02 CONNECTION
By volunteering, you meet new people, build relationships, and strengthen your social network.
03 PURPOSE
Knowing that your efforts are making a difference can be incredibly rewarding and provide a sense of purpose.
A huge hats off to our versatile volunteers across the entire region this National Volunteer Week, 19 - 25 May.
04 LEGACY
Volunteering allows you to leave a positive legacy. The impact of your work can inspire others to get involved and continue the cycle of giving.
VOLUNTEER WITH US
There are lots of areas your services and skills will be welcomed at Council. Whether it’s tending our parks and reserves, helping customers navigate our libraries or gallery, or assisting with researching the region’s heritage. Head online to find out more. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/volunteer
05 MENTAL HEALTH
Helping others can improve happiness, often reducing stress and combating loneliness and depression. It can create a sense of accomplishment and joy.
Spellbound Wingham Beef Week
We have plenty to keep you entertained. From music to art to local markets and everything in between. Here’s a sneak peek at what you can enjoy this season.
7 March Street Feast – Stroud Showground
8 March Wallamba Show – Nabiac Showground
8 March Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Motorfest – Myall Park Sports Oval
9 March RiverFest – Tea Gardens Riverfront
14 March - 10 May POSTWORLD exhibition – Manning Regional Art Gallery
28 March Gloucester Show – Gloucester Showground
28 March Best of the Bee Gees – Manning Entertainment Centre (MEC)
5 April TasteFest on the Manning – Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree
16 April Spellbound – Anthony Street live – MEC
18 - 20 April Easter Powerboat Classic – Queen Elizabeth Park, Taree
25 April ANZAC Day commemorations – region wide
25 - 27 April Stroud Show – Stroud Showground
10 May Rattletrap 2025 – Crowdy Head beach
12 - 16 May Wingham Beef Week – Wingham Showground
31 May Bonnie Wingham Scottish Festival – Wingham Showground
Head online for full details, and to find more great events:
General: barringtoncoast.com.au
Gallery: mrag.midcoast.nsw.gov.au
MEC: themec.com.au
Library: library.midcoast.nsw.gov.au