Your Coastal Life #1 December 2020

LIFE

COASTAL YOUR

SHOWCASING THE SOUTH COAST FREE EDITION 1 DECEMBER 2020

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

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welcome

TO YOUR COA STA L L I F E Welcome to the first edition of Your Coastal Life, a quarterly tourist publication promoting the South Coast of NSW. This magazine is proudly published by Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd, a Cooma-based and locally owned company which also publishes the weekly Monaro Post newspaper, The Snowpost Tourist magazine, Building, Renovating, Lifestyle magazine Innovation and Your Farm Rural supplement.

Your Coastal Life has been created to service businesses along the coast, just as The Snowpost services businesses in the Snowy Monaro.

The company is excited to be able to provide visitors to the region with a magazine which showcases the attractions and highlights of the region.

We are delighted with the positive response we have received in setting up the magazine.

Your Coastal Life will be published quarterly at this stage.

If demand warrants it, the frequency may increase.

Monaro Media Group would be pleased to receive feedback, suggestions, etc. from our readers and especially from locals. We hope you enjoy this first edition. The next Your Coastal Life is scheduled for

March 10, 2021.

Please contact the editor, Gail Eastaway, with any editorial inquiries or suggestions.

Advertising enquiries should be directed to our South Coast representative, Jessica Plumridge or sales manager Tracy Frazer.

Our contact details are: editor@monaropost.com.au P: 02 6452 0312 M: 0408 930 180 coast.sales@monaropost.com.au M: 0447 212 829 sales@monaropost.com.au P: 02 6452 0313

Gail Eastaway

Tracy Frazer

Louise Platts

Elle Thompson

Jess Plumridge

Jim Walker-Broose

Richard Wilkins

EDITOR (PART OWNER)

ADVERTISING (PART OWNER)

ACCOUNTS (PART OWNER)

JOURNALIST

ADVERTISING

ADVERTISING

JOURNALIST

James Hanna

Russ Haylock

Sam Tonks

Jen Stockl

Breanna Arnold

Trista Parker

Leanne Christie

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

CADET JOURNALIST

JOURNALIST

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

JOURNALIST

ADVERTISING

YOUR APARTMENTS & MOTEL

COASTAL LIFE

Your Coastal Life is proudly produced by the team at The Monaro Post to show the Far South Coast of NSW

Amooran has an ideal location, off highway with panoramic ocean views to Montague Island. It is opposite Narooma Golf Club and close to town, restaurants and beach. Amooran offers a variety of room types, apartments and houses.

LIKE wȌȺɈ ȲȌȌǿȺ ǘƊɨƵ ƦƊǶƧȌȁǞƵȺ ƊȁƮ ɨǞƵɩȺ‫ ة‬ƊǶǶ ǘƊɨƵ DzǞɈƧǘƵȁ ǏƊƧǞǶǞɈǞƵȺ ƊȁƮ àǞ˛‫ خ‬ US ON The outdoor pool is heated September to May.

UPCOMING PUBLICATIONS

BOOKING DEADLINES

March 10, 2021 June 9, 2021 September 8, 2021 December 15, 2021

February 10, 2021 May 9, 2021 August 8, 2021 November 15, 2021

If you would advertise in our upcoming editions, please contact Jess at coast.sales@monaropost.com.au or call 0447 212 829.

Book in all 4 editions for a great deal!

30 Montague St Narooma NSW 2546 | 02 4476 2198 www.amooran.com.au | booking@amooran.com.au

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

Cover and contents photographs courtesy Barlings Beach Holiday Park & Tween Waters Holiday Park.

ADVERTISING Jess Plumridge Tracy Frazer Jim Walker-Broose Leanne Christie EDITORIAL Gail Eastaway Elle Thompson Richard Wilkins Sam Tonks Trista Parker Russ Haylock PRODUCTION & DESIGN James Hanna Breanna Arnold Jen Stockl ACCOUNTS Louise Platts @themonaropost @themonaropost @themonaropost PUBLISHER Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd ACN 121 288 060

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WELCOME

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NAROOMA OYSTER FESTIVAL

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NAROOMA CAR SHOW

10

SCULPTURE WALK

12

VISIT PANBOOLA

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BUSY MERIMBULA

18

MOGO ADVENTURE TRAIL

20 - 21

THE SOUTH COAST IS CALLING

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TEEING OFF

59 Vale St, Cooma NSW 2630 PO Box 1227, Cooma NSW 2630 CONTACT US Phone: (02) 6452 0313 Website: www.monaropost.com.au Editorial: editor@monaropost.com.au Advertsing: sales@monaropost.com.au coast.sales@monaropost.com.au

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Accounts: accounts@monaropost.com.au The publisher accepts no responsibility for any advertisement, notice or letter published. Any advertisement, notice or letter is published at the risk of the contributor who accepts liability for any intended publication. All such contributors, by forwarding advertisements, notices or letters, agree to indemnify the publisher and warrant that the material is accurate and neither deceptive, misleading, in breach of copyright, defamatory or in breach of any laws and regulations. Please be aware that all material published in YOUR COASTAL LIFE is subject to copyright.

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Narooma Rocks board member Lindsay Brown with Eddie Moore and his son Layton Moore who performed the Welcome to Country in Dhurga language.

launches The NSW South Coast is making a name for itself as Rock Oyster Country with the launch of Narooma Rocks, the new tourism brand from the company that delivers the region’s flagship event Narooma Oyster Festival.

The company plans to build on the success of the annual oyster festival by delivering year-round events to drive food and oyster tourism and grow employment in the region.

“We are taking the best parts of the Narooma Oyster Festival and delivering these as bespoke events and immersive visitor experiences throughout the year,” Narooma Rocks Chair, Mrs Cath Peachey, said.

“We are harnessing our natural assets – our worldclass oysters, incredible local harvests, passionate producers, our rich Aboriginal cultural history and our landscape that makes this stretch of coastline unmistakably Rock Oyster Country,” Mrs Peachey said.

Experiencing quality local produce is a major factor in holiday destination decision making and this demand for quality local produce is what Narooma Rocks is tapping into.

“Visitors are seeking more immersive, small-scale and interactive food experiences that encourage them to get hands on at mealtimes and also offer an opportunity to meet and engage with locals.

We will be giving visitors the authentic food experiences they crave while educating them about oyster merroir and why NSW South Coast oysters are the best,” Mrs Peachey said.

Following the horrific year faced by NSW South

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

David Maidment serving up Australia’s Oyster Coast Appellation oysters.

N AROOMA ROCK S TO U RISM BRAND

Coast businesses with the COVID-19 pandemic on the back of last summer’s bushfires, the need for year-round tourism offerings is more important than ever. Due to COVID-19 event bans this year’s oyster festival did not go ahead as planned. The Narooma Rocks board used the down time to develop an event strategy with a vibrant program of activities to promote Narooma, its regional neighbours and the South Coast oyster industry.

“The annual Narooma Oyster Festival will still be our flagship event, with plans for the 2021 festival well underway for the weekend of May 1, 2021. However, one of the great lessons from the bushfires for summer tourism towns like Narooma, is we need to give people a reason to come all year round. We hope Narooma Rocks can play a role in contributing to that,” said Mrs Peachey.

NSW Wines including Borrowed Cuttings Picpoul Blanc was served to guests

The event strategy includes the oyster festival as the headline act alongside a seasonally inspired destination dining series launching early next year. The plan also involves a roving oyster bar that sells multi-estuary rock oyster tasting plates and aspires to hosting a state food tourism conference.

Narooma Rocks is the trading name of Narooma Oyster Festival Limited, a not-for-profit company established in 2019 with a voluntary skills-based Board.

For more information go to www.naroomarocks.com.

Tickets for the 2021 Narooma Oyster Festival are on sale now from www.naroomaoysterfestival.com Kelly Eastwood (left), Paul West (centre) and Narooma Rocks Chair Cath Peachey (right)

coastal life ST YLING YO U R

Being in a region that has been hit harder than most by the challenges of 2020, Far South Coast locals Sarah and Matthew Nolan know all too well the mental and physical benefits of personal space and quality home décor.

Recognising a local demand, they were inspired to open their new homewares store Home by Montague earlier this year.

Having opened in October, the Nolans wanted Home by Montague to cater to the local market as well as to those visiting from out of town.

“Having a personal interest in home décor and home design, we were inspired to open the store as there was a real local demand for that sort of thing,” Store owner Sarah Nolan said.

“Before we opened Home by Montague, there was a real lack of homewares stores in Narooma and people would have to travel as far as Batemans Bay. So, we wanted to open a local store that caters to local styles and tastes with our product range.”

Home by Montague features a wide variety of homewares and home styling items, including everything from furniture, cushions and artworks,

to candles, essential oils, flowers and even unique Australian Christmas wreaths.

Inspired by the styles, trends and demographics of the local community, they cater to all styles from boho, country, coastal, hamptons and more.

Starting a business in 2020 has naturally been challenging, especially when it comes to sourcing stock.

However, Sarah and Matthew have battled through the adversity and gone all-out to get Home by Montague up and running, securing plenty of stock and continuing to provide locals with products that are becoming increasingly difficult to come by.

The friendly and approachable local staff at Home

by Montague is dedicated to providing great customer service and has a passion for helping people make their homes beautiful.

If you’re wanting to spruce up your home, drop into Home by Montague at Narooma Plaza at 185, Princess Highway Narooma or contact them on 0490 245 618 or at sales@homebymontague.com.au

Create a space unique to you

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185 PRINCES HIGHWAY.

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car show

NAROOMA

After missing out on running the event due to bushfires and COVID-19, Narooma Motors are proud to announce that the annual Narooma Motors Classic and Fancy Car and Bike Show will be returning in 2021 on Saturday January 23.

Unless there are major changes to COVID restrictions, the event will be back on at NATA Oval in Narooma, with approval given by the Eurobodalla Shire Council.

“We started out in 2015 with maybe a dozen cars, and since then it’s just exploded to over 120 cars,” said Pete from Narooma Motors.

About 2000 people attended the last event they were able to run, which was in 2019, with Pete hoping that this popularity flows through into this January.

“It’s just a nice, fun, family day, and a great chance to show and see some amazing machines you’ll only see at Car Shows.”

This year Australia Day does not fall on a long weekend, but Pete hopes visitors can make a weekend of it by visiting the region.

“We are trying to get some money coming back into the town, so take the Monday off and come stay in Narooma.”

There will be raffles and prizes this year for first, second and third place overall, captain’s pick, best bike, best modified, best original, best ladies build, best engine, best survivor, best transformation and best in show.

The current prize pool for all of these categories is $1100, with a chance that figure will increase if more local businesses come on board with sponsorship.

There will also be special guests such as Great Southern Trike Tours, Narooma VRA and tyre suppliers NTW, who will again be bringing a surprise vehicle.

There will also be food vans and community groups providing a range of things to eat, and free entry for participants and visitors to what is looking to be a fun social event for all in early 2021.

Y R T N E E FRE

THE 6TH/7TH ANNUAL

NAROOMA MOTORS CAR SHOW

SATURDAY 23RD JANUARY 2021 9am at NATA OVAL NAROOMA All makes, models, classic, vintage, veteran, hotrods, show cars and bikes!

FREE ENTRY FOR PARTICIPANTS AND VISITORS For more information visit www.naroomamotors.com

11-13 Graham Street, Narooma 4476 2080

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

TATHRA WHARF

TO BE REPAIRED AND UPGRADED

Member for Bega Andrew Constance recently announced the NSW Government will provide $7.1 million from its COVID-19 stimulus program toward the repair and upgrade of the Tathra Wharf.

“Tathra Wharf is an icon and a recreation and tourism magnet that offers a great spot for fishing or a bite to eat, taking in the sweeping coastline views and marine life, or just enjoying a weekend promenade to get some sun and fresh air,” Mr Constance said.

“Unfortunately, the wharf has seen better days since suffering extensive storm damage from massive waves generated by an east coast low in June 2016 that virtually lifted its deck from its pylons.

“I’m very pleased to report that the NSW Government will be providing $7.1 million from the COVID-19 stimulus fund to support Bega Valley Shire Council’s efforts to restore this important piece of coastal and cultural infrastructure. “$2.13 million of the restoration funding will be provided in 2020/21 followed by the remaining $4.97 million in 2021/22 to provide a big boost for our region.”

Mr Constance said the funding would support the replacement of piers, building upgrades, and upgrades to car parking and amenities at the site while supporting jobs and the local economy.

Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Councillor Russell Fitzpatrick said that the funding supplied by the NSW Government will allow council as the Crown Land managers of this iconic site, to give it the restoration it deserves.

“We would have been unable to complete the works without the funding, leaving the wharf at risk of further damage,” said Cr Fitzpatrick.

“Council are now able to get on with the project, give locals and visitors continued access without future safety concerns and restore the Wharf as it deserves.

“The Wharf upgrades will further complement the amazing Tathra Headland

walking track and remain a strong drawcard for the town well into the future,” Cr Fitzpatrick said.

The heritage-listed Tathra Wharf has a colourful history dating back to its original construction as a shipping terminal in the early 1860s following commencement of the Illawarra and South Coast Steam Navigation Company.

The last ship to take freight from Tathra was in 1954 but the wharf remains a drawcard with its museum and café and State Heritage listing as the east coast’s only remaining deep sea wharf and cargo shed dating back to the 1800’s.

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the COVID-19 stimulus program was upgrading important community infrastructure while supporting jobs and local economies.

“The South Coast is one of Australia’s most beautiful locations but the whole nation knows how tough this region has had it in recent times with drought, the bushfires, and now the tourism impacts from COVID-19,” Minister Pavey said.

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sculpture F O R CLYD E While the popular Sculptures for Clyde event in Batemans Bay was like so many events cancelled for 2020, the fruits of this annual sculpture festival - the permanent Batemans Bay Sculpture Walk located on the town foreshore is available for any visitors to enjoy.

The Sculpture for Clyde festival is an annual event held between August and September, celebrating the talents of artists and sculptors from across the world and attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Since the inaugural event in 2017, eight permanent sculptures have come to take their place along the foreshore between Clyde Street and the Marina to make up the Batemans Bay Sculpture Walk.

DUET - DORA A. ROGNVALDSDOTTIR The first installation of the walk is this wonderful sculpture by Nowra artist Dora A. Rognvaldsdottir and was the winner of the 2017 Aquisative Award in the inaugural ‘Sculpture for Clyde’ Exhibition. Duet is “two seedlings, larger than life, speak of aspirations and nurturing”. It was created from welded aluminium.

THE PELICAN - TERRY FULLER This artwork by South Coast artist Terry Fuller features two bronze pelicans, one standing and one sitting. Terry often chooses to work bronze because bronze is able to take any form that the sculptor wishes and its warmth and variety of patina and the way that light can be used to enhance the sculptures’ surface.

PORTAL - JOHN FITZMAURICE This piece by Avoca artist John Fitzmaurice featured in the 2018 festival, and while not the winner of the coveted Aquisative Award, it was so popular amongst visitors that it was purchased for the walk through a community crowdfunding campaign.

BOUYANSEA - JESSE GRAHAM Unveiled as part of the first ‘Sculpture For Clyde’ event in 2017, Eden artist Jesse Graham created the work from a bouy that washed up the creek after a major flood. Bouyansea now looks like an upside-down octopus and stands over six feet high.

FAMILY - R.M. (RON) GOMBOC According to Western Australian artist Ron Gomboc the message of Family is that “In the world of nature the importance of family whether human, animal, plant is the regrowth of new generation.” The sculpture is made from welded corten weathering steel and copper. It has exhibited more than 10 times at both Sculpture By The Sea Cottesloe and Bondi.

DANCE - HARUYUKI UCHIDA Winner of the 2018 Aquisative award, Japanese artist Haruyuki Uchida creates a form and expression that utilises the gravity that exists around us. ‘Dance’ is positioned on the point, to the west of Batemans Bay Marina at Spinnaker Reach and is particularly worth a visit at night when the lights of town reflect off the red arches.

FRACTURE 2 - DAVID BALL This piece by David Ball of Wildes Meadow NSW was hand made from corten steel. Accoring to Ball, his work “is a distillation of forms found in our universe and scaled up or down.”

PELICANT - JESSE GRAHAM Pelicant takes pride of place on the breakwall at the Batemans Bay Marina.

Though it didn’t win the 2018 Aquisative Award, this piece was so popular among visitors to the event, that the committee raised extra funds through a community crowd funding campaign. Jesse Graham is a full time artist living near Eden, NSW.

While the 2020 event was cancelled due to covid, the 2021 sculptures for Clyde event is expected to go ahead and will undoubtedly see a new addition to the Batemans Bay Sculpture Walk.

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

ADVERTORIAL

RE LAX, RE CHA RGE AND R EI NV I GO R AT E Dreaming of a coastal getaway with everything you need to relax, recharge and reinvigorate? Pambula on the Sapphire Coast of NSW is the perfect place.

No crowds, just some of the best beaches on the east coast of Australia and some great fun retail therapy options too!

The pretty coastal village of Pambula - a name derived from the Yuin Aboriginal word meaning two waters - is big on history, with the discovery of gold in local rivers in the mid 1800’s. Some of Pambula’s lovely historic buildings date back to this industrious time, with bull-nose verandahs, a town clock and lovingly tended street gardens. It’s a bustling little place, and with over one hundred businesses it’s surprising and refreshing not to see

any chain stores or traffic lights. The passionate locals are also committed to reducing their carbon footprint with an active campaign to eliminate single-use plastic.

holidaymakers and residents, are well deserving of Tourism Australia’s award ‘Australia’s Coastal Wilderness’ - lauding the region’s purity and proliferation of marine life.

Browsing the town you’ll discover a delightful array of specialty shops including an artisan bakery, cafes, galleries, local art and craft, handcrafted surfboards, giftwares, homewares, fashion, vintage collectables, boutiques, whole foods, hair, beauty and health, and eco-friendly retail with a strong focus on local. Pambula has also cornered the market on essentials with a thriving bank, newsagent, post office, real estate, furniture store, supermarket, chemist, butchery and fruit market, plus a very popular pub offering a terrific feed.

Pambula Beach, with a population of only 700, shares its postcode with Pambula and boasts the proud and competitive Pambula Surf Life Saving Club and a state-of-the-art aquatic centre funded and staffed by committed locals.

At the southern end of the main street, tranquil Panboola Wetlands based on the grounds of the old Pambula racetrack, offers a delightful, paved stroll popular for bird watching and photography.

Tourism is the life-blood of Pambula Village and a spotlight is focussed brightly on the pristine coastline of nearby Pambula Beach and river mouth where two local Aboriginal tribes left behind 3,000 year-old middens. Pambula’s stunning waterways, eternal favourites with

One of Pambula’s charms is its close proximity to beaches, lakes, wetlands and countryside. It is an ideal location for family vacations, confirmed by the countless families boasting four generations of Pambula holidays.

Beachcomb the sweeping sands, explore sea life in fascinating rockpools, lunch with the local kangaroos or browse the diverse and friendly local businesses. A visit to Pambula confirms that this place is a magnetic blend of paradise and history, fuelled by the spirited energy of a proud community.

I MMERSE YOURSELF I N NATURE

Panboola is a bird watcher’s paradise, a photographer’s delight and a lovely place for an easy cycle or walk. Bike riders love Panboola – it’s a perfect venue for families to enjoy a safe and easy ride together, and it’s great for scooters and skaters too.

As the end of the year steadily gets more hectic, why not immerse yourself in nature at Panboola Wetlands!

Brochures are available at each entry point, highlighting the extensive network of tracks.

Panboola is an 82-hectare area of floodplain that provides a unique place to experience the diverse natural wetland system as well as the site’s culture.

“The 2.6km walk out to the Pambula River is one of our best-kept secrets – you are almost guaranteed to have the sandy beach to yourself,” Michelle said.

A much loved heritage project of the south coast, Panboola is being rehabilitated as a wetland for the purposes of nature conservation, protection and restoration of habitat for birds and other indigenous flora and fauna. ...you are

The Panboola Centre at Watson’s Waterhole, behind the Idlewilde Motel, provides an alternate entry point with sealed car park, picnic tables and stunning vistas.

And importantly, it is carefully maintained by volunteers for community education and passive enjoyment.

almost guaranteed to have the sandy beach to yourself

“Discover our newest all access pathway that starts here and that serves as a pleasant shortcut if you are riding out to lunch at Oaklands or the Longstocking Brewery,” Michelle said.

Within Panboola visitors will find fresh water billabongs, saline areas around the former racecourse, saltmarsh and mangroves, thousands of plantings, extensive walking and cycle tracks, and picnic tables and seats.

Scattered around the site are a number of stunning sculptures all within easy walking distance of each other. The natural environment of the Panboola landscape has inspired each piece.

“Go for a stroll, enjoy a picnic, ride your bike, watch the birds or simply just ‘be’ in nature. It’s good for the body and it’s great for the soul,” Pambula Wetlands and Heritage Project Inc Project Coordinator, Michelle Richmond said.

For more information visit website www.panboola.com, follow on Facebook or become a “Friend of Panboola” – it’s only $10 annually per family and is a great way to support this community project.

Located on the southern edge of the village, Pambula is blessed to have Panboola wetlands on its doorstep. Visitors can grab a snack from one of the many nearby cafes and head to the picnic tables by the side of Tip’s Billabong or enjoy the shade of the Waterbird Sanctuary.

Panboola is managed by the Pambula Wetlands and Heritage Project Inc, is cared for by a team of dedicated volunteers, and is open 7 days a week.

Everyone is welcome, and entry is free.

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

LIGHT UP THE BAY The inaugural ‘Light up the Bay’ event will be held on New Year’s Eve at the Batemans Bay foreshore starting at 6:00pm on December 31, 2020. The event is intended to serve as a celebration of community spirit as well as a commemoration of the bushfires that devastated the region this time last year.

“With the impact of the bushfires last summer, followed immediately by COVID lockdowns, we haven’t had an opportunity to properly thank our local firefighters and volunteers for their unbelievable efforts and what they had to go through last year,” Batemans Bay Business and Tourism Chamber President Mathew Hatcher said.

“So, this event is a commemoration of those fires and the impact they had on the community and those who suffered through them, but it’s also a celebration of the positivity and resilience of our local community in the face of adversity.”

The Light up the Bay event is being organised by the Batemans Bay Business and Tourism Chamber under the flag of their local community pride campaign ‘Love the Bay’. It was decided due to the impact of the fires, that a fireworks display would

be insensitive to those who suffered through the fires, not to mention a potential fire-risk itself.

Instead, they decided to do an ongoing light show throughout the evening, a small version of the iconic VIVID Sydney light festival or the Enlighten Canberra light festival At sundown a Welcome to Country will be performed by Yuin Elder Auntie Lorretta, followed by speeches by Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips, Andrew Constance MP and local RFS Brigade Captain Ian Aitken.

The event will feature musicians and buskers performing throughout the evening and local business’ and venues will be extending their hours to cater for the community to come together.

the Love the Bay initiative, the Light up the Bay is a great way for locals to come together and have pride in their community.

“We started the Love the Bay initiative with the goal of motivating people to be involved in the community, to promote local businesses and events, and to show people how much Batemans Bay has to offer,” Ms Janssen said.

“Since we started it, Love the Bay has been a hub of positivity through what has been a very challenging time. Likewise, I think the Light up the Bay event will be a light of community spirit and positivity, shining through the darkness of this year and ushering in the next with an optimistic spirit.”

There will be single points of entry and exit for the event where QR codes for checkin and complimentary hand sanitiser will be available. Those in attendance are asked to maintain social distancing and practice COVID safety while taking part in the evening.

Marieke Janssen, coordinator of the Love the Bay campaign and co-coordinator of the Light up the Bay evening said, like

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P OTOROO PA LACE About 10 minutes from Merimbula you can savour the rare opportunity to see a koala, wander among the kangaroos, touch a snake, stroll through the cooling mist of the walk-through aviary, go for a ride on the mini train or just enjoy lunch – all at Potoroo Palace!

Potoroo Palace is a small not-for-profit native wildlife sanctuary, home to many familiar and lesser-known species of Australian animals.

Many of the animals at the sanctuary are native to the Sapphire Coast area and some are very rare.

Kangaroos, emus and wallabies and all manner of birds roam freely in the grounds.

Closer encounters can also be arranged with some of the shyer animal residents.

“This meeting of worlds is what it’s all about,” a spokesperson said.

“Potoroo Palace is a sanctuary for both animals and people, grown over the years by a team of passionate staff and volunteers and some very special ambassadors too!

Piper is one of the loveable residents at Potoroo Palace

“We’re not-for-profit, so your entry fee helps keep us going with our conservation and education.”

Make a day of it and stop for lunch, or just enjoy a delicious coffee in the Blue Wren Café, while browsing a selection of Australian-made merchandise.

Or bring your own picnic and enjoy some time out next to the shady dams and barbecues.

Educational talks add to the experience, and train rides and animal feedbags are available for all the family.

Potoroo Palace is open 9am to 4pm Thursday to Sunday, and seven days a week throughout school holidays (closed Christmas Day), being just 9km north of Merimbula on the Princes Highway, Yellow Pinch.

Kangaroos, emus, wallabies and all manner of birds roam freely in the grounds

IT ’ S ALL HAPPENING AT MERIMBUL A Merimbula is in for a very busy summer, with a variety of markets and events scheduled right through to April and beyond.

The busy Merimbula Rotary Club is organising their regular markets and in January will incorporate the Rolls Royce & Bentley Club of

EAT MERIMBUL A The Eat Merimbula Festival on March 7, 2021, is the premium food festival of the Sapphire Coast NSW. Each year the region comes together to celebrate the local chefs, cooks and produce of the region.

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

Curly the emu is just one of the many birds you can meet up close at Potoroo Palace

Victoria “Show & Shine Event” on January 17.

This will have about 35 modern and vintage “best cars of the world” on display.

Originally planned as a show at Candelo in 2020 and then again in 2021, the club moved their display to Merimbula when the Candelo event was cancelled for a second time.

It should be a fantastic display shown in a COVID safe way.

Merimbula Rotary Club will hold its usual markets with the regular and new stallholders offering a

The star is the outstanding quality of the local produce of the region, in particular the delights of the sea, award-winning oysters and seafood.

The rich grazing land of Bega, famous for its dairy, also ensures the quality of the small producers across the region.

The festival is headlined by Eat Merimbula where

The echidnas are always a popular part of a visit to the sanctuary

huge variety of products and produce, including jewellery, clothes, bric-a-brac, fishing equipment, plants, soaps, diffusers, dog treats, wooden chopping boards, vegetables, honey, tasty snacks and refreshing coffee.

The markets and the cars will be at Ford Park, from 8am to 12.30pm.

On New Year’s Eve, Merimbula will light up with a fireworks display.

These can be enjoyed from vantage points around the town. The shows will be held at 9.30pm and again at midnight.

the industry comes together in a bustling market style setting. The event is free to enter.

For more information on what’s on in Merimbula, contact the Visitors centre at Shop 7/29 Market Street The centre is open seven days to help with your enquiries.

markets

BY THE BAY

While unable to be held in the early months of the year due to the impact of Covid, the Batemans Bay Sunday Markets were able to recommence in late August and have since been going strong every first and third Sunday of the month.

An iconic regular event of the South Coast, the Sunday Markets are a must see for anyone visiting the area.

Their location on the Batemans Bay foreshore along with the local food, stalls and positive community atmosphere make the markets the perfect way to spend a Sunday morning.

Organisation of the markets is split between Marine Rescue Batemans Bay on the first Sunday of the month and Rotary Batemans Bay on the third.

The markets regularly feature up to 60 stalls selling clothes, food, collectables, plants, hobbies, gifts, antiques, wood products, bric a brac and much more.

Local musicians and buskers are often present to further add to the positive atmosphere and local artists regularly display and sell their works.

The Batemans Bay Markets, while cancelled for a time, have generally been going strong through the challenges of covid and providing the community with a means to come together and share in positivity and community spirit, particularly after the devastation of last summers bushfires.

The next Batemans Bay Sunday Markets will be held on Sunday December 20.

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trail hub

MOGO ADVENTURE

The Mogo Adventure Trail Hub Masterplan aims to realise the potential of adventure trail tourism in the region and establish the Mogo area as a premier adventure trail destination.

Eurobodalla is renowned for its unspoilt natural environment and the region has an endless number of trails that weave through bushland, creeks, wetlands and rainforests. These informal trails offer significant potential in further developing adventure trail tourism in the region, and this has been further highlighted by trail event organisers commenting on the untapped potential in Eurobodalla.

The masterplan was approved by the Eurobodalla Council at its December 8 meeting.

The Mogo area has a history of mountain bike trail development and event conduction across the past several years, including the conduction of a number of high-profile regional mountain bike events.

Immediately prior to the commencement of this project the area has been severely affected by fire, which has devasted the local community and affected numerous residential and commercial properties.

The fires have had a profound effect on the local tourism economy, which has provided an even greater incentive to pursue the potential for destinationfocused mountain biking in the region. During the preparation of this report, the COVID-19 virus has caused further disruption to an already damaged tourism industry.

The past five years has seen exponential growth in destination-focused trail development across Australia. Developments such as Blue Derby, Maydena Bike Park and Thredbo Resort are bringing tens of thousands of visiting riders to mountain bike destinations each year and delivering tens of millions of dollars in economic impact.

During this period, trail design and construction, along with bike technology has fed a rapidly evolving mountain bike market, which has significantly changed rider behaviour. The current trail network in the Mogo region does not provide a mountain bike experience that has significant appeal for local or visiting riders.

Over the past several years, the sport of mountain bike riding has continued to experience exponential growth across the world; including significant growth in mountain bike tourism across Australia. Despite this growth, formal mountain bike infrastructure development has failed to keep up with demand, resulting in many local riders turning to informal trail development as a way of accessing the volume and style of trails they wish to ride close to their home.

While there has been a substantial volume of informal trail development in the area, this trail development does not provide the diversity and quality of trail required to establish a viable mountain bike destination.

This master plan builds upon the draft trails strategy prepared by TRC, which provided a high-level strategy for developing an adventure trails network in the Mogo area.

Dirt Art has been engaged by the Eurobodalla Shire Council (ESC) to undertake a master planning project, which aims to progress the concept of a destination trail network within the Mogo area.

Dirt Art has worked with a target area focusing on the towns of Mogo and Batemans Bay, exploring a large area for potential trail development. The focus of land for the project will be land managed by Forestry Corporation of New South Wales (FCNSW), due in large part to the fact that the agency manages the vast majority of the land in the region.

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

The target area has strong potential for development as a mountain bike trail destination. Key strengths of the area include; • • • • • • •

Location: proximal to major population areas of Canberra and Sydney Climate: the local climate is highly appealing for year-round riding Coastal location: the coastal location of the area will appeal to visiting riders Topography, terrain and elevation: the target area has moderate slopes and good elevation opportunities Urban infrastructure: the target area provides strong connectivity into townships for a genuine ride-in, ride-out opportunity Soil type: the shaley clay in the target area provide excellent year-round riding potential and wear characteristics Regional positioning: there are limited mountain bike destination opportunities within a 3hr driving radius of the target area

The project also proposes to formalise and improve a network of approximately 30km of existing trails.

The new proposed developments will provide strong appeal for visiting riders, as well as catering to the wants and needs of local riders. Catering for a broad cross section of riders, the project has a strong focus on intermediate riders.

The Mogo project is an excellent opportunity to use mountain biking as a major component of the economic revival of the fire ravaged regions of Mogo and Batemans Bay. With little to no regional competitors, the proposed trail system has significant potential to attract strong visitation to the area, the majority of which would be multi-day stays from a market known to spend more than the average tourist.

coastal QUENCHER S

If locally owned and operated wineries and craft breweries are your scene, then the Far South Coast has plenty to offer right across the region.

In the south, a great starting point is Longstocking Brewery, just south of Pambula on the Princes Highway.

Open seven days, this independent brewery is best known for not only its range of beers, which include dark ales, pale ales, lagers, pilseners and ciders, but also its oysters and cocktails, available daily. Woodfired pizza is also available on Friday and Saturday nights, with the venue opening until 10pm.

From Monday to Thursday as well as Sunday, Longstocking shuts at 6pm, with light meals and oysters always on offer on throughout the week.

Bookings are essential on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and recommended through the week, so call 0407 691 640 or visit www.longstocking.com.au to book yourself in.

Further up the coast between Tathra and Bermagui you will come across Mimosa Wines and restaurant, a rural setting with home grown Rose, Verdelho and Savagnin wines, as well as being open for lunch from Thursday to Sunday and dinner on Friday and Saturday nights.

There are also plans for picnics in the vineyards next year, but if you can’t wait that long visit www.breakfastcreekvineyard.com.au to view their range of wines and read their story so far.

Further north is Tilba Valley Winery and Ale House, which is open for lunch from Wednesday to Sunday and has home grown wines and a wide selection of craft beers sourced locally and from beyond the region.

Tilba Valley has a wide and open space for growing, allowing them to produce Semillon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reisling, Traminer, Shiraz and Chardonnay, and with big news to come in the beer department, patrons are encouraged to visit their website www.tilbavalley.com.au for bookings and upcoming events.

Lastly on this trip is Big Niles Brewing, located in Dalmeny. They have a massive range of beer, with an innovative team of brewers always trying new and old to please their patrons. To see how the brewery has come about and the events that are happening, visit their Facebook page ‘Big Niles Brewing Co’.

With plenty of local wine and beer, as well as freshly sourced seafood and other selections of things to eat, drop in and visit one or all of these local and independent businesses while you visit the Far South Coast.

With award winning chefs on site, signature dishes include house made pasta and gnocchi, pork belly and local seafood.

There is also a homestead and cottage if you wish to book a night or more at Mimosa, with bookings for all of the attractions at the winery taken through www.mimosawines.com.au.

Just north of Bermagui is Camel Rock Brewing, within Big 4 Wallaga Lake Holiday Park.

With plenty of beers to try, American style dining and live music every Sunday, this is an ideal location for kicking back over an afternoon or a whole weekend within the holiday park.

To check out the menu, book a table or read up on the history of this venue, visit www.camelrock.com.au.

Travelling inland from Bermagui will lead you to Rusty Fig Wines in Coolagalite, a winery specialising in Tempranillo, Verdelho Rose, Savagnin and Natural Sparkling wines.

You can buy direct from this winery via their website www.rustyfigwines.com. au or join their mailing list to make sure you are first to know of open days and other upcoming events.

Similarly, there is Breakfast Creek Vineyard between Bermagui and Cobargo, with cool climate wines available online or through their cellar door, with wine tastings to commence in 2021.

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is

THE SOUTH CO

BARLINGS BEACH HOLIDAY PARK Tomakin, is spectacularly situated on 22 acres of beachside land.

Campers and Tourist vans can choose to set up on their powered and unpowered sites.

Located between the neighbouring seaside villages of Batemans Bay and Moruya on the ever-popular NSW South Coast.

If you want to stay longer you can lease an annual site and enjoy the park and all facilities for up to six months a year.

Park facilities include a resort style swimming pool, multiple barbecue and picnic areas, a games arcade, guest lounge perfect for group activities with indoor dining and large screen television, plus a camp kitchen, laundries and an onsite cafĂŠ.

Their park is close to licensed clubs, cafes, specialty and artisan boutiques and galleries, a lawn bowls club, a golf course, boat ramp and tennis courts. The historic town of Mogo, including the impressive Mogo Zoo, is just a six-minute drive inland and the Tomakin IGA is only a minute away.

There is an expansive range of accommodation options from luxury villas and modern family sized beach homes to modest cabins priced for a value-packed getaway.

BIG4 MERIMBULA TWEEN WATERS Absolutely the best of both worlds when you stay.

calling

OA ST

Our caravan park is located between the lake and Merimbula’s main beach.

At BIG4 Merimbula Tween Waters you can park your car and leave it as we are located adjacent to’ Merimbula’s Main Beach’ and a 5 minute walk into the township of Merimbula. See you soon!

We pride ourselves on providing all guests with top class, clean facilities. Most importantly we offer you a very sincere ‘warm welcome’ and an opportunity to get together with old friends and meet new ones. We are always trying to think up new and fun things to organise for our guests; whether it be the fast pace excitement of crab races or a relaxing craft session.

Don’t forget to bring the bikes!

Once receiving our ‘Tween Waters Holiday Park Bike Riders Licence’ the kids can ride safely and happily around the resort. Our three pools are solar heated with waterslides, serpents and water spouts with ample shade and baby pool area also available. We also have a games room with pool tables, pin ball machines, duke box, video games and books. As well as a playground and full size tennis court.

Activities change with the seasons, and we try to have something that will appeal to all age groups. We offer children’s activities during Christmas and Easter school holidays. Previous activities have included: crab racing, porcelain painting, yoga, pool competition, face painting, T-shirt painting, tai chi and candle making.

EXPLORE NSW WILDERNESS WITH SAPPHIRE COA ST GUIDING CO Sapphire Coast Guiding Co, formerly ‘Light to Light Coastal Walks’, have been operating since May 2019 providing unforgettable nature experiences on the far south coast of NSW. Offering a variety of guided tours and a wealth of knowledge of the area, tour guides Tess and Cam explore the areas that people might not be able to explore on their own, and introduce the hidden beauties of the coast on each tour.

Among their many tours is the popular Light to Light tour, Australia’s undiscovered great walk which offers a multi-day fully guided walk with three different options to ensure you get the most out of your tour.

Guided coastal wilderness walks is a leisurely option to experience nature in unbridled coastal wilderness, letting you wander the hidden trails that snake along rugged clifftops and encounter rare wildlife.

If you’re looking for something a little more challenging the guided coastal wilderness experience offers the opportunity to explore stunning rivers, lagoons and beaches by kayak, cycling or by E-Bike.

Cam said that during the bushfires the wilderness surrounding the Light to Light walk was heavily damaged but gladly the tour is back up and running

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

with tour dates now available, though largely this summer Sapphire Coast Guiding Co hopes to focus on the kayak tours.

“These tours are an accessible way to access areas on the Sapphire Coast that people might not be able to find themselves,” Cam said.

“It’s also got that guided side, so the things you might simply walk past, we would stop and tell you about. There are some interesting things, whether it be history, plants or fauna we can give you all sorts information you wouldn’t know about.”

Sapphire Coast Guiding Co has a variety of multiday walks available which can be customised to the needs of the group.

The flexibility of a customised guided tour allows the group to get the most of their tour and Cam and Tess look forward to organising and customising tours throughout the summer.

For more information on Sapphire Coast Guiding Co and the tours on offer visit www.sapphirecoastguidingco.com.au To see the amazing photographs captured on tour and for all other updates visit www.facebook.com/sapphirecoastguidingco

MEET BIG TOM

this connection that they bonded with the later whalers, whose crews often included Yuin men.

Surrounded by national parks and with a strong whaling history, it’s no surprise that Eden boasts some great marine and wildlife centres and a comprehensive whale museum - all of which are a must-see when in town.

In the early years of Eden whaling in the 1840s there were reportedly around 50 killers spread through three main pods. All three pods cooperated together.

One pod stationed far out to sea would drive whales in towards the coast, another pod would attack the whale and another pod would be stationed ahead of the whale in case it broke loose.

The Eden Killer Whale Museum has been telling Eden’s stories almost 90 years and is home to the only permanently displayed orca skeletons in the southern hemisphere — Old Tom, Eden’s famous killer whale.

...was the most boisterous of the killer whales that hunted baleen whales with the Davidson family in the 1800s.

Old Tom was the most boisterous of the killer whales that hunted baleen whales with the Davidson family in the 1800s. At times, Old Tom and the pod numbered up to 36, many of which were known by name to the whalers.

At the time, killer whales took advantage of other whales’ annual southern migration through Australia’s waters, targeting vulnerable whales in elaborate hunting strategies, sometimes joining forces with humans to herd their prey.

Before European settlement, the orcas had a special relationship with the local Yuin people with whom they hunted the other whales, and it was through

The Killer Whale museum not only has its permanent ‘Meet the Killers’ exhibition to learn all about the whaling process, but also features a comprehensive collection showcasing Eden’s coastal history, and boasts several special exhibitions each year.

A visit here is not complete with spending time on the vast sun-drenched deck that overlooks Twofold Bay. It’s a great place to watch whales, and if you spot one, the staff will sound a siren to let the whole town know a whale can be seen from shore.

To find out more, including current COVID 19 regulations in place, please visit our website www.killerwhalemuseum.com.au or call the Eden Killer Whale Museum on 02 6496 2094.

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VISIT BEN BOYD PARK Ben Boyd National Park spans 47km of rocky coastline and sheltered inlets, and offers endless appeal to visitors and locals alike.

Located near the whale watching town of Eden on the far South Coast of NSW, its crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and swimming.

Ben Boyd National Park is separated into two areas, split by Twofold Bay. Take your pick from the sparkling lakes and surf beaches in the park’s Pambula-Haycock area, or the rocky cliffs and beachside campgrounds in the Green Cape area.

Its spectacular sea-carved landscape is a striking display of folded red rock platforms that contrast against the sapphire blue water of the ocean.

Stretch your legs on one of the park’s shorter tracks, like the Pambula River or Pinnacles loop walking tracks.

If you’re after something more exhilarating, the multi-day ‘Light to Light’ walk takes you on an unforgettable coastal hike, tracing the coast from the historic Boyds Tower to Green Cape Lightstation.

For day trippers, there are plenty of spots to go beach and rock fishing or settle down for a barbecue or picnic by the water.

More than 50 Aboriginal sites have been recorded in Ben Boyd National Park, including middens, rock shelters, campsites and long-distance travel routes. These cultural sites continue to provide the local Aboriginal community with traditional and spiritual links to this part of their Country.

The park’s lofty lookouts and headlands are hard to beat for whale watching, with southern right and humpback whales frolicking close to shore on their migration south to Antarctica from September to December.

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24

YOUR COASTAL LIFE

summertime RACING ON T HE SOUTH COA ST

As COVID-19 restrictions have begun to ease, racing returns to the south east.

After a successful Cooma race meeting on December 5, the next race meetings are scheduled for the South Coast.

RACING AT MORUYA

PAMBULA CUP RACE DAY

The Moruya Racecourse is a picturesque track with plenty of facilities to create the perfect country race day experience.

Pencil in February 13 for race day at Pambula, the Bega Valley Shire’s biggest social Race Day.

You can dress up and put yourself in the running for a prize in Fashions on the Field, or you can dress down to come and have a relaxing afternoon enjoying fresh Clyde River oysters and a glass of crisp sparkling wine.

This is a chance to get together with old friends and celebrate good times.

Free entertainment along with quality racing makes for a fantastic day out!

This is not just about races; this is a genuine country experience where you can meet the locals, share a yarn and maybe even pick a winner!

Marquees are available equipped with tables, chairs, food and beverages suitable for groups, all with a clear view of the racecourse. The Club runs a full bar and food is available on course. Children's entertainment is usually available.

The Club organises local bus transportation services for every race day which run to and from both Moruya and Tuross.

Upcoming race dates include: Moruya Christmas Cup December 31, 2020 Gates open 11am, with the first race at approximately 1pm.

Moruya Cup, January 2, 2021 Gates open 11am, with the first race at approximately 1pm.

Race day, January 14, 2021

COVID rules will apply - please visit the website for up to date information.

MERIMBULA REALT Y MERIMBULA CUP RACE DAY The Merimbula Cup will be contested on Monday March 1, 2021 Celebrate Merimbula Cup in style!

At the Sapphire Coast Turf Club it will be a day to remember. Great races, TAB and bookmaker facilities, bar and kiosk!

Meet up with friends, dress to impress and enjoy your day at the races.

COVID Rules will apply - please visit the website for up to date information.

Proudly sponsored by Merimbula Realty.

Suppliers of: Maxwell & Williams | Coast to Coast | Glasshouse | Salt & Pepper | Ecology | Davis & Waddell | Tempa | Masterpro | Peer Sorensen | Amalfi | Willow Tree

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E RIZ P L TA OL O T PO 00

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Photo : Matt De Ward

EASTER 2021 APRIL 2 - 5

‘Sentinels’ - Melinda Brouwer Winner 2019 Snowy Monaro Environment Award Sponsored by Rebel Penfold-Russell OAM, Ian Low & family

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CALL FOR ENTRIES Be a part of the renowned Lake Light Sculpture event held on the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne Open to professional and emerging artists, tradespeople, local school and community groups.

THE EVENT NOW INVITES ENTRIES FOR 2021 ENTRIES CLOSE FRIDAY 26th February 2021

Application Forms at www.lakelightsculpture.com.au

Lake Light Sculpture Jindabyne

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FANCY A WALK? There are walks for everyone in and around Eden - from a gentle stroll along Aslings Beach path past Eden’s maritime heritage, to the more adventurous 30km Light to Light walk in Ben Boyd National Park.

BUNDIAN WAY STORY TRAIL

MT IMLAY SUMMIT TRACK

Bundian Way - Story Trail is the first section of a 350km Aboriginal pathway that extends from the sea at Twofold Bay to Mount Kosciuszko.

Starting at Burrawang picnic area, this challenging walk takes you through dry eucalypt forest and grassy woodlands to the summit of Mount Imlay.

The Story Trail is an approximately 2km walk between Cocora Beach (via Ida Rodd Drive) and Quarantine Bay.

The track climbs steeply, rising 600m, but there’s plenty to distract you from the effort along the way.

Along the way there are spectacular coastal views of Twofold Bay and beyond.

The path winds around the headlands down to a beach, then around another headland.

In spring, stop to admire the delicate beauty of brightly coloured wildflowers such as mountain speedwell.

Viewing deck lookouts along the way allow you to take in the views across the bay. Learn the story of the sealers at Sealers Platform, and of Ben Boyd’s empire at Brierly Platform.

Once you reach the summit, enjoy a rest and take in the views to the coast. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mallacoota in Victoria, and Narooma to the north.

The Bundian Way Story Trail is more than a walk, it is a shared history of the Aboriginal walking track from the tablelands to the coastal plains.

It’s also a great spot for birdwatching. Watch out for yellow-tailed black cockatoos flying overhead and listen closely for lyrebirds as you’re walking up the mountain.

Difficulty - Easy

Difficulty – Challenging

EDEN HERITAGE WALK

BEN BOYD NATIONAL PARK (NORTH)

The Heritage Walk takes you through the historic town of Eden, where you can admire the work of the early pioneers and discover the legacies of its convict past, historic buildings and sites of past tragedy.

In the northern part of Ben Boyd National Park is the Pinnacles loop track, an easy 30-minute walk with two lookouts along a gently undulating track with spectacular views of cliffs and beaches.

Around the town and Twofold Bay, you’ll be impressed by the natural beauty as you walk in the footsteps of both the original Indigenous inhabitants and the European settlers.

The Haycock Point to Barmouth Beach track, an easy walk of 3km, offers panoramic views and whale-watching (Septemer–November) and wildlife spotting opportunities.

For a map and information about the sites of the heritage walks and drive, visit Eden Visitor Information Centre.

You will pass through a range of landscapes — from scenic coast to windswept heath and woodlands.

Difficulty – Easy

Difficulty – Easy

LAKE CURALO BOARDWALK

BEN BOYD NATIONAL PARK (SOUTH)

This is an easy, flat walk that circles the lake to join with the Aslings Beach Maritime Walk. It is mostly accessible for prams, wheelchairs and bikes, with entry points from Eden Sportsground in Barclay Street, Lakeside Drive, and opposite Eden Gateway Holiday Park.

In the southern part of Ben Boyd National Park, you can walk 30km on the Light to Light walk, which hugs the coastline between historic Boyd’s Tower and Green Cape Lighthouse - one of the best walks on the far south coast of NSW.

The boardwalk and walking track meanders around the lakeshore, through swamp melaleuca forest, across salt marsh and over the shallow water where you can see fish and many species of birdlife among the reeds, before reaching the estuary mouth.

With ever-changing scenery, from heathland to forest, tea tree groves to banksia woodlands, and sheltered coves to towering red rock platforms. Most sections are easy.

There are several picnic tables and picturesque bridges along the way.

You can camp along the way at Saltwater and Bittangabee Bay campgrounds.

Difficulty – Easy

Difficulty – Easy For more information, contact the Eden Visitor Information Centre or visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service site.

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QANTAS LAUNCHES FLIGHT S TO MERIMBULA to get more of our people back to work,” Mr Gissing added.

NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres welcomed the announcement and encouraged Sydneysiders to take the opportunity to support the South Coast by visiting this summer.

“NSW’s far South Coast is known for its stunning beaches, as well as the fantastic bushwalks, delicious oysters and excellent fishing throughout the region,” Minister Ayres said.

“As we reconnect with and rediscover our own state, it’s exciting that new destinations are opening up to an even broader market such as this new Sydney to Merimbula route, making it incredibly easy for residents to travel throughout NSW.” Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick said the new Qantas flights demonstrated the value of long-term planning to maintain growth and services in the Shire.

Qantas will launch flights from Sydney to Merimbula for the first time, bringing much needed competition to the route in time for the summer holidays.

“We decided many years ago to invest in Merimbula airport, knowing that appropriate infrastructure will attract other airlines and great opportunity for every local town and village,” said Cr Fitzpatrick.

From December 18, Qantas will operate four direct flights per week with its 50-seat Q300 turboprop aircraft, adding more than 400 seats on the route each week.* The airline will “There is no add flights if there is strong demand.

“We welcome this move from Qantas to offer greater choice and value for customers, helping bring more visitors to the region.

QantasLink CEO John Gissing said the new Merimbula flights reinforced the national carrier’s commitment to helping the tourism industry recover from COVID-19.

“There is no doubt these new services come at a good time. The summer bushfires and COVID-19 restrictions have hit our tourism industry hard, but with improved access to this beautiful part of the world we can now work towards a strong recovery.”

“With border restrictions fuelling demand for intrastate travel, we see a big opportunity to bring more tourists to Merimbula,” Mr Gissing said.

doubt these new services come at a good time.

The summer bushfires and COVID-19 restrictions have hit our tourism industry hard...

“This will be the first time that the flying kangaroo has flown to the Sapphire Coast, which will mean more competitive fares on a route that has been a monopoly for decades.

“We’ll be promoting Merimbula to millions of our frequent flyers across the state in the lead up to the flights commencing.

“These new flights will help more travellers explore the beautiful beaches and unique wildlife in and around Merimbula and give locals more choice in how they get to Sydney.

“We have a long history of serving regional Australia and we’re pleased to be able to support new routes where we see there is demand. It will also help us

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YOUR COASTAL LIFE

Qantas launched two other intra-NSW routes in July, Sydney-Orange and for the first time in 15 years, Sydney-Byron Bay (Ballina). Since then, flights to Byron Bay have increased from one per day to up to four per day to meet demand.

To celebrate the new route, Qantas is launching a three-day sale with fares available from $149 one-way, unless sold out prior. Fares are available to book from today via qantas.com or through travel agents.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Qantas has introduced a number of initiatives to help customers to book with greater flexibility, including allowing a flight to be moved free of charge, as well as introducing additional health and safety measures through its Fly Well program. *Subject to government and regulatory approval.

gourmet C OA ST FO OD TR AI L

READY FOR YOUR WINTER 2021 ESCAPE

The coast of southern New South Wales (Batemans Bay to the Victorian border) is a hidden gem. With some of the best produce in Australia, you would expect every food lover to be here, but it largely remains a secret.

Those of us in on the secret know that at the various producer markets scattered along the coast, you will ďŹ nd tomatoes that taste like tomatoes should – full of sun and avour, milk that is the colour of cream, cheese that evokes the avour of local ďŹ elds, wine that captures the sunlight and taste of berries, oysters just out of pristine estuaries – each estuary bringing their own unique avour, and in winter, trufes with their warm earthy aroma.

They know the restaurateurs who use these local ingredients to bring the heart of our coastal avours to your plate. They know this region is made unique by the passion of the producers, their love for the land in which they live, their love for quality food and their love for sharing this with others.

This region is one of intimacy – far from the crowds. The region is one where you can share with the producer their passion. You can walk along a beach learning to harvest the edible seaweed, make your own gin under the guidance of international award winning distillers, milk a cow; partake in coffee cupping, a gourmet picnic or a long lunch; or hunt for trufes completely surrounded by national parks, and that is just the start!

To date, the producers and local community have taken all this for granted.

They haven’t taken full advantage of the opportunities it provides. All this is changing. Running from Batemans Bay to the border, led by Fiona Kotvojs, Greg Lissaman and Lucy Wilson, the Gourmet Coast Food Trail is being established. The hidden producers are being brought into the limelight, the secrets made public. Others will be able to share.

In April 2021, the Gourmet Coast Trail will be launched. All these secrets will be mapped out so you can ďŹ nd them, create your own escape or use one of the suggested itineraries to help you plan your holiday. All in time for a great winter escape.

Some of the businesses involved are: Broadwater Oysters, located in a picturesque bay on Pambula Lake, where inthe-know visitors can pick up a dozen Sydney Rock Oysters from Broadwater’s tiny oyster shack minutes after they’ve been pulled from the water.

Guerilla Roasters, focuses on traceability, sustainability and working with producers to get super high quality all while paying them a premium price.

Sourcing premium arabica from all over the world and focusing on unique varietals. It’s coffee with a conscious with money going back into charities in Australia and at origin.

Gulaga Gold: already supplying restaurants from Milton to Eden and exporting trufes to USA. From winter 2021 you will be able to join the team of local dogs to hunt for the elusive black Perigord trufe in a pristine environment surrounded by national parks.

North of Eden Gin, Stony Creek Farm Distillery make the popular North of Eden Gin offer Gin School and “meet the maker� experiences, gin and cocktail tastings.

The Royal Arms At the Royal Arms Bed and Breakfast in Nimmitabel, we’re passionate about people and food. Those heading to the South Coast ďŹ nd us an easy distance from Canberra, where you can ďŹ nish work on a winter’s Friday afternoon, forget the challenges of driving down Brown Mountain, and relax next to our cozy ďŹ replaces. After a delicious breakfast, continue your food trail experience, refreshed. The weekend has started! (Of course, we’re available all year round, and you can extend your stay!)

Tilba Real Dairy The Dibdens’ Jersey cows produce award-winning milk, yoghurts and cheeses.

Also Breakfast Creek Vineyard, Bodalla Dairy , Milford Acres Farm: (https://www.facebook.com/millford.acres/), Mountain View Premium Tomatoes, Sprout cafĂŠ in Eden and more.

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29

coast

GOLF COUR SES

Thanks to the rain that has fallen in recent months and the hard work of those involved in each Club, the Far South Coast District Golf Association boasts 13 golf courses in spectacular condition, all ready for you to play.

These courses are a great reason to visit all of the towns along the coast, whether you fancy an occasional round or are wanting to tick off each and every FSC course off your bucket list, any of these courses are for you. The courses all have carts and clubs to hire, with pro shops for all your needs before you tee off.

After your round, the Clubs all feature bar and bistro services, with plenty of refreshments and spaces to relax after your last putt drops.

Many courses also allow for competition golf for players who use GolfLink, with all players encouraged to ring forward and book a tee time to avoid disappointment.

Beginning in the south, Eden Gardens is located just out of town, with plenty of space and fresh air that allow for an enjoyable 18 holes of golf on the par 71 course.

Continuing up the Princes Highway will lead you to Pambula/Merimbula Golf Club, a 27-hole course that scythes through the native bushland of the area.

With full practice and playing facilities available, this is a course that suits players of all standards.

On the other side of the Merimbula Lake is Tura Beach Country Club, a course of 18 holes and panoramic views that has been a feature of the top 100 public Australian course for years.

Keep coming north and you’ll be able to either head inland to Bega or along the coast to Tathra, or both, should you be keen to play the dozen courses in their entirety.

The coast roads north of these two towns lead to Bermagui, an 18-hole course with views of the town and landmark Mount Dromedary, with tree lined fairways and waterways around the course.

The drive up the coast past Wallaga Lake and back onto the Princes Highway will see you through to Narooma Golf Club. Set right on the coast, Narooma is home of the legendary Hogans Hole and many more holes of challenge and scenery that sees it ranked just outside the top 50 public courses in Australia.

From Narooma, the drive sees you through the town of Bodalla, before the option of turning right to the Tuross Head Country Club. This is a nine-hole course, but with double tees make it an exciting 18-hole challenge with ocean views to remember at this hidden gem of a course.

The next course up the highway is the 18 holes of Moruya Golf Club, an easy walking par 71 golf course that combines water features and greenery to become a picturesque challenge throughout the 18 holes.

On the coast road to Tomakin there is another course, at the Moorings Golf Club. This nine-hole course is designed to ensure that any level of golfer is challenged and can have fun, with The Moorings also including an aqua golf facility and 18 hole mini golf course to provide a fun form of golf for all who attend.

The next FSCDGA course is Catalina Country Club in Batemans Bay, a 27hole course with flat carpet fairways and well-kept greens, this course is an enjoyable challenge for any level of player.

The Tathra Beach Country Club is a top all-year-round course, located just out of town with a beautiful, natural setting throughout the 18 holes on the banks of the Bega River.

The last courses on the Far South Coast bucket list are at the Mollymook Golf Club, just north of Ulladulla on the Princes Highway. The Club has two courses, the Championship Hilltop 18-hole course and the social Beachside 9 holer, giving differing challenges for all player levels.

If you choose the inland route, Bega offers 18 holes that intertwine with towering gum trees and lush fairways at a course rich in history and scenery.

So, if you are a veteran on the course, feel like taking it up again, or a first timer, each and every Far South Coast course is for you.

FAR SOUTH COAST COURSES Bega Country Club Bermagui Country Club Club Catalina Country Club

30

YOUR COASTAL LIFE

Eden Gardens Country Club Mollymook Golf Club Moruya Golf Club

Narooma Golf Club Pambula - Merimbula Golf Club Tathra Beach Country Club

The Moorings Golf Club Tura Beach Country Club Tuross Head Country Club

www.berrymotel.com.au

Continental breakfast for two included at each property!*

www.lincolndowns.com.au

www.forresthotel.com.au

*Bookings are to be made at each hotel separately by booking directly or using the promotional code ‘SELFDRIVE’ on our websites. Berry Village Boutique Motel has a minimum 2 night stay on Friday and Saturday nights.

Subject to availability. No requirement to stay at all three hotels.