Central Coast Life & Style | Edition 5

EDITION 5

central coast

LIFE and STYLE

1

New artwork to come

thebeholder.com. au 2

6/6 Pi ne Tree La ne, Ter r i ga l

Book your escape now!

02 4360 1717 belleescapes.com.au/central-coast

FINDINSIDE 05

WIN A LUXURY COUNTRY ESCAPE

06

MEET INTERNATIONAL SURF STAR MOLLY PICKLUM

11

SPOTLIGHT ON THREE OUTSTANDING LOCAL ACHIEVERS

15

SUSTAINABLE, STYLISH SUMMER FASHIONS

18

THE NEW-LOOK HOTEL GOSFORD PAYS HOMAGE TO ITS RICH HERITAGE

22

THE HOTTEST WATERFRONT PROPERTY ON THE MARKET

26

TRAIN, PLAY, RECOVER: FITNESS INSPO FOR A NEW YOU IN 2022

32

HOW A BUYER’S AGENT CAN HELP YOU FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH

36

DISCOVER LONG JETTY’S HIDDEN TREASURES

38

FINE DINING AND FABULOUS VIEWS

39

BELLE ESCAPES: HOLIDAY HEAVEN ON THE CENTRAL COAST

44

CHECK OUT COFFEE GURU MARTIN HUDAK’S NEW BOOK

45

ANGELA BENNETTS TALKS WORDS ON THE WAVES 2022

46

BOOKCLUB: OUR TOP SUMMER READS

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU GET NOTICED? Central Coast Life & Style is so much more than just another magazine – we are currently one of the largest social media voices on the Coast, with a following of more than 65,000 users across our digital platforms plus a substantial database. With our Editor-in-Chief, Cathy Baker, at the helm, you will also have access to Belle Property Escapes’ majority stake in the Central Coast’s holiday and weekend traffic, a significant contributor to our region’s success. Offering a unique, distinguished style like no other, we are the integrated solution to your advertising needs.

Please contact amanda@centralcoastlifeandstyle.com.au to find out how we can design a tailor-made solution that’s right for you!

ABOUT OUR COVER: At just 19 years old, surfer Molly Picklum has achieved more in the past couple of years than most of us manage in a lifetime. The refreshingly down-to-earth Coastie has won a swag of titles, competed in 2021’s World Surf League Challenger Series and is fast becoming a big name in the tough world of international surfing. The “rising star” is well on her way to even greater achievements – Molly, we salute you!

Cover photo: Ben Gamlin

3

EDITOR’S Letter Welcome to the summer edition of Central Coast Life & Style.

We’re enjoying a busy season on the Coast, as more locals decide to holiday at home and Sydneysiders make the most of our uncrowded beaches, beautiful bushland and booming restaurant scene. Welcome one and all!

Our cover story on surfing champion Molly Picklum is sure to inspire keen young surfers to take to the waves with fresh motivation – see more on page 6. And whatever your age or ability, you can learn to surf or hone your skills at classes run by the Central Coast Surf Academy at Avoca, Terrigal, Toowoon Bay, Shelly Beach, Wamberal, Macmasters and Copacabana beaches. Turn to page 26 for more about the academy (and lots more) in our comprehensive fitness guide, Train, Play, Recover.

It’s heartening to see that Gosford is finding its place in the sun after decades of being something of a forgotten backwater. On page 18 we take a look inside the newly renovated Hotel Gosford, a centrally located venue that offers bucketloads of contemporary style, fabulous food and live music while retaining its rich social and architectural heritage. Drifters Wharf, the distinctive sail-topped building on the waterfront, re-opened under the management of the successful Shady Palms team late last year, and Lyons Den is another one to watch.

The Central Coast is home to a wonderful community of talented individuals and on page 11 we shine the spotlight on three high-achieving locals who make a difference in their own distinct ways: ‘Doctor Do More’ Ash Bowden, the emergency department doc who created the Move Against Cancer challenge; Indigenous artist, photographer and surfer Grant Molony, whose brilliant murals adorn walls from Long Jetty to Bondi Beach; and renowned sculptor Gaby Porter, who has a beautiful garden gallery in Pearl Beach and modestly admits to having an Order of Australia medal (OAM) for her services to sculpture.

It’s also great to meet Martin Hudak, the multi-award-winning bartender and co-owner of Sydney’s uber-cool Maybe Sammy group.

We preview his new book, Spiritual Coffee, on page 44 and you’ll be seeing a lot more of him in the upcoming autumn issue!

central coast

LIFE and STYLE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CATHY BAKER EDITOR SALLY MACMILLAN WRITER / DIGITAL CONTRIBUTOR JACQUELINE O’NEILL CREATIVE DIRECTOR KRISTIE LOWE PHOTO EDITOR JOSEF NALEVANSKY ADVERTISING & MARKETING MANAGER AMANDA HUGHES-NALEVANSKY

From all of us at Central Coast Life & Style, we wish you the very best for 2022!

Cheers,

Cathy

FOLLOW US AT FACEBOOK centralcoastlifeandstyle

CATHY BAKER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

INSTAGRAM @centralcoastlifeandstyle SUBSCRIBE Make sure you don’t miss an issue www.cc-style.co GET IN TOUCH info@centralcoastlifeandstyle.com.au www.centralcoastlifeandstyle.com.au ADVERTISING to advertise in the next issue of Central Coast Life and Style please email amanda@centralcoastlifeandstyle.com.au

Clockwise from top left: artwork by Grant Molony; Martin Hudak; sculptor Gaby Porter; Dr Do More, Ash Bowden.

4

Central Coast Life and Style Magazine has taken all reasonable precautions and effort to ensure the accuracy of material contained in this magazine is correct at the time of publishing. The views expressed in our articles do not necessarily reflect that of the editor and publisher. All adverts and editorial features are published in good faith.

Central Coast Life and Style Magazine cannot guarantee and accept no liability for any loss or damage of any kind, errors or inaccuracy of claims made by the advertisers.

Win a luxury country break WITH BELLE PROPERTY ESCAPES

This amazing vacation package is provided by Belle Property Escapes and the lucky winner will enjoy a two-night country escape for six people at The School House at Watagans in Martinsville.

The School House at Watagans, which dates back to 1895, has been meticulously restored and converted into a beautifully appointed home that retains its historic charm. Set on 1.2 lush, private acres backing onto Watagans National Park, the accommodation includes three bedrooms, four bathrooms and a spacious living and kitchen area.

Vast covered verandahs offer incredible views over the grounds and national park.

Martinsville is about 20 minutes’ drive from Lake Macquarie, which offers an abundance of watersports facilities, and The School House at Watagans is just across the road from a tennis court, sports oval and playground.

Subscribe at www.cc-style.co for your chance to win!

Simply enter our prize draw by subscribing at www.cc-style.co

Follow Central Coast Life & Style on Instagram @centralcoastlifeandstyle and our Facebook page for more chances to win fabulous prizes.

T&Cs apply: Usage dates apply. Mid-week date of your choice (subject to availability) Must be over 25 years old. Abide by house rules. Must be redeemed within six months of the prize announcement (blackout dates apply including school holidays).

02 4360 1717 belleescapes.com.au/central-coast 5

6

COVER

Meet the delightfully down-to-earth teenage surf star Molly Picklum, the Shelly Beach local who is fast becoming a big name in the competitive world of women’s surfing, nationally and overseas.

WORDS SOPHIE HARDCASTLE

When I get on Zoom with rising surf star Molly Picklum, the first thing I ask her is, “Who is Molly?” Without hesitation she tells me Molly is kind, always, especially with her friends. She doesn’t mention her back-to-back Australian Championship title wins, or how she claimed the Australian Pro Junior back in 2019, or that she was named Female Rising Surf Star at the Australian Surfing Awards in 2020.

Instead, she says that she’s super bubbly and full of energy, which I can already see. It’s early morning in Europe and Molly has just travelled overnight by car for nine hours from Portugal to France, but if she’s feeling tired, you can’t tell. As the sun breaks over her shoulders, Molly is brimming with joy and excitement.

“I’m just a full ball of energy,” she says. “It’s fun to be travelling again and I’m excited.”

When asked what home means to her, Molly says she was born and raised on the Central Coast and she just loves it. “I’ll probably live there my whole life, there is just such a variety of waves!” Does she have a favourite home break? She shakes her head and says, “There are just so many breaks, from fun beachies to point breaks and sand bars. I don’t have a favourite because it changes every day.”

PHOTO ANDREW SHIELD / RED BULL CONTENT POOL

7

PHOTO MICKEY EDWARDS / RED BULL CONTENT POOL

Molly is clearly someone who is excited by change and newness.

What does that mean for her surfing? She talks about competitive surfing and free surfing, which, to her, are completely different. “Free surfing is an opportunity to go out, have fun, improve your surfing and go on trips with friends,” she says. “Competitive surfing is where it gets more serious.

It’s like a chess game, and because I’ve always been super competitive that’s what makes it so fun and exciting.”

Molly then compares surfing to soccer and touch football – sports she sought to perfect during high school. Much as she loved these sports, surfing was different, because mother nature – the ocean – is the ultimate decider. “You can be the best surfer in the water, but if the right wave doesn’t come, you can get knocked out of the heat.” I sit back in my chair, admiring Molly’s wisdom, knowing, even at this young age, how to surrender to what she can’t control and how to focus on changing what she can. Ultimately, Molly credits her ability to have fun in both free surfing and competitive surfing as the reason she hasn’t been burnt out by the sport.

I ask Molly how she first got into surfing and she tells me that it isn’t some crazy story – it just happened. “Going to the beach every weekend is the norm for kids growing up on the Coast, and when I was given the opportunity to paddle out on a learn-to-surf board, I chose surfing over building sandcastles.”

Later, when her family moved to Shelly Beach, she got involved with North Shelly Boardriders and began surfing before and after school. She says she was fortunate enough to go to The Entrance High and that they were “phenomenal” in allowing her to compete while also being flexible with the various avenues she could take to finish school. “I honestly can’t thank my schooling community enough for all their help.”

8

PHOTO ANDREW SHIELD / RED BULL CONTENT POOL

I wonder what and who inspires Molly. She smiles and says that inspiring for her is just people who work hard. She says there is no-one specifically, although she admits she looks at a bunch of athletes across all sports, always those who work their hardest and try their best with a level mindset.

When we are first introduced on the call, Molly’s manager is with Ash Barty, who jumps on for a moment to say hi. I learn as we’re speaking that Ash is not only a friend, but someone Molly looks up to. What is it about Ash that inspires Molly the most? “Ash is a major source of inspiration because of the way she carries herself,” Molly explains.

“Ash has a personal life and a professional life, but throughout it all, she is authentic, remaining super true to who she is. This is especially important in the age of social media, when a large fan base can shape and really influence who a person is. I want to stay true to myself, because at the end of the day, I need to be fulfilled with who I am, trying and doing my best – not letting other people create some sort of image of me.”

So, what it’s like being in the public eye at such a young age? Molly is modest, telling me she doesn’t feel like she’s necessarily a public figure, but believes that what’s most important is being herself. “If people like it,” she says, “great. If people don’t, so long as I’m happy with how I’ve portrayed myself, that’s all that matters.”

We speak then about how important it is to have a close circle, or team, as a guiding compass. Molly says, “You have your close team, who you listen to and trust, and anyone beyond or outside of that doesn’t really know you and therefore you shouldn’t let them shape or shift your path. My team is absolutely amazing, pretty tight and small.”

She doesn’t look past them for information, demonstrating her strength and wisdom, qualities that will, I’m sure, be invaluable and carry her in good stead as she progresses through the World Tour.

PHOTO BEN GAMLIN

We talk about Molly’s world outside surfing, which brings us back to the Central Coast. Whether it’s singing in the car or getting lunch, Molly’s friends feature heavily in her stories. She emphasises how important it is for her to have a base to come home to, describing the calmness that comes over her when she’s back. There, she has the perfect balance of lifestyle –it’s not a big city vibe, but there’s enough happening to stay entertained.

Ironically, while many of us experienced deep isolation throughout the pandemic, Molly describes how valuable it was for her to be home for long periods of time over the past year, because it allowed her to invest deeply in her relationships with friends and family.

Finally, I ask Molly what she thinks about the future of women’s surfing.

She says that everything she wants to see is already happening – the gap between women’s and men’s surfing is narrowing. Molly, who is currently

working on consistency with her aerials, says this is where the future of surfing is, and is excited to be part of a generation of young women surfers who are taking their surfing into the air.

This reminds me of Molly’s instagram bio, which reads, “Running my own race out here”, and perhaps that’s it. Molly Picklum – authentic, bold, and energetic – is running her own race, and I, for one, cannot wait to see where she gets to next.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sophie Hardcastle is the author of three books that have been published internationally and translated into eight languages, an artist and co-writer and co-director of Cloudy River (SBS On Demand).

9

Discover Pittwater’s beautiful bays and serene surroundings on a cruise aboard the classic timber yacht Tashtego. Launched in 1962, this elegantly fitted out 42-foot vessel sailed several Sydney-Hobart races and has been lavishly restored to her original grand design. Tashtego is one of only four yachts produced by the master shipbuilding Halvorsen family – she is sailing royalty!

Three-hour catered brunch and twilight cruises depart from Palm Beach at 10.30am and 2.30pm for up to eight adults ($275), or you can book a fully catered private charter for four hours ($1,850). Arrival and departure times coordinate with Fantasea’s ferry service between Palm Beach, Ettalong and Wagstaff and the new Boathouse ferry linking Patonga with Palm Beach and Newport.

Broken Bay

Skipper Chris Cook-Berry is an extremely experienced professional sailor, having sailed charter yachts in the Caribbean for more than 10 years. You’ll enjoy the best of Pittwater in inimitable style and in the safest hands.

YACHT CHARTERS

Call 0449 009 740 10

|

Email bookings@brokenbayyachtcharter.com.au

| Visit brokenbayyachtcharter.com.au

SPOTLIGHT The Central Coast is home to a wonderful community of talented individuals, some very well-known in their fields while others are unsung ‘quiet achievers’. Here, we celebrate three outstanding locals who make a difference in their own distinct ways: Dr Ash Bowden, who created the Move Against Cancer challenge; Indigenous multi-media artist Grant Molony; and acclaimed sculptor Gaby Porter.

WORDS SALLY MACMILLAN & JACQUELINE O’NEILL

11

Grant

MOLONY

ARTIST, SURFER, MURALIST EXTRAORDINAIRE Grant Molony’s magnificent murals adorn exterior and interior walls in many places around the Central Coast.

There’s a massive whale at Erina Fair, a colourful octopus at Bay Rd Brewing in Gosford, an intricate piece portraying a black cockatoo and mother and baby turtles in the waiting room at Gosford Private Hospital, and a portrait of Michael Jordan in the men’s room at the Savoy in Long Jetty.

Grant’s large-scale works also feature at several schools and community centres and he says he’s helped out on a “bunch of workshops”, often with his surfing champion/artist brother Russ – something he would love to have done when he was at school.

Although Grant studied art for HSC, surfing and his love of the ocean took precedence over doing an art degree and he worked for several years at the Boarderline Surf store in Long Jetty.

However, Grant was always drawing, painting and honing his skills as a renowned surf and underwater (and sometimes wedding) photographer.

Private commissions led to a large social media following – and more opportunities in the art world – and he decided to work on his art full-time. While Grant is best known for his big canvases and massive murals, he also specialises in detailed portraits and animal paintings, using inks, acrylic and watercolours on paper, silk and bark.

You can see Grant’s work at X Rowsie Gallery at 11 The Entrance Road, The Entrance by appointment, and buy prints online at krop.com/grantmolony.

12

SPOTLIGHT

Gaby

PORTER

WORLD-RENOWNED SCULPTOR

If you’re headed for the magical Pearl Beach Arboretum along Crystal Avenue, you’ll see Gaby Porter’s Pink Onion Sculpture Garden at number 61. You can’t miss it – the large, mosaic-tiled Pink Onion sits on one side of the driveway and a ‘piano for the people’ on the other.

Passers-by are free to wander through the garden, or make an appointment to view the sculptures with Gaby or commission a piece.

Gaby has been creating and exhibiting her sculptures full-time since 1986. Before moving to the Coast in 2018, she and her partner, John Haymes, spent some 20 years developing the much-loved Wombarra Sculpture Garden near Wollongong. Her distinctive works can be seen in places as diverse as Borneo and Hong Kong as well as around Australia and have won numerous awards. In 2012, Gaby was “very privileged” to be awarded the Order of Australia (OAM) for services to sculpture.

“I’m inspired by all sort of natural forms, particularly pods and plants, shells and fruit, even things like orange peel,” she says. Sensuous female figures are a recurring theme. Lucille, a substantial mosaic-tiled “juicy girl” reclines in the garden, and a bronze Daphne sits by the steps leading to the front door, accompanied by two birds.

“Willoughby City Council commissioned the original Daphne,” says Gaby. “She sits on a sandstone bench in Willoughby Park among the eucalypts and I love the thought of children climbing up and sitting beside her. Or real birds fluffing their feathers on the bench alongside my bronze doves.” See gabyporter.com

13

Ash

BOWDEN

DOCTOR DO MORE Since moving to the Central Coast in 2018, emergency department doctor Ash Bowden has lived a double life as ‘Doctor Do More’ – spending his time away from the ED on a mission to inspire everyone in the community to be more active to improve both their physical and mental health.

After a light-bulb moment speaking with an intensive care consultant in the UK several years ago, Ash has dedicated his career to improving how active we can all be. In 2019, he launched a search engine (do-more.live) to connect those seeking to ‘do more’ with providers across the Central Coast – from surfing to tennis, jazzercize to Pilates, there is something for all ages, budgets and levels of activity.

Ash also launched the inaugural Move Against Cancer challenge in September 2020 in partnership with Central Coast Primary Care, whereby participants logged their daily steps for a month, fundraising for Cancer Council NSW along the way. Some 800 people took part and more than $13,500 was raised.

In 2021, he did it all again, with participants raising over $100,000 for the Cancer Council – in the middle of a pandemic.

Ash hopes that through his work outside of hospitals, he will see fewer people inside them, while getting the community more active and garnering greater support and more clients for local active businesses.

See do-more.live.

PHOTO JOSEF NALEVANSKY

14

COAST STYLE

SUSTAINABLE

FASHION

PHOTOGRAPHY JOSEF NALEVANSKY

Fashion designer Weave, founder of Ukiyo Co, is a tireless champion of practical, stylish and, most importantly, ethically created clothing.

That means using natural fibres and recycled fabrics that are sourced from producers who look after their workers and their families, pay correct wages and don’t pollute the environment with chemical dyes.

Here, Weave selects beautiful summer pieces from local designers and boutiques that will look good for many years to come.

15

ARYELE THE LABEL honours timeless, natural luxury. A gentle palette of soft tones brings a fresh look to the new summer capsule collection. The label’s flagship store is at 40 Terrigal Esplanade, Crowne Plaza Terrigal, and you can also shop online at aryelethelabel.com.au.

Terrigal’s MIKI FINN is a treasure trove of wonderful finds from All about Eve, Staple the Label, Mink Pink, Billini and many more.

This summer you’ll find that perfect piece in store or online for a summer of fun, whether it’s for a Christmas party or gorgeous beachwear. mikifinn.com.au

16

SŚAINT is a stunning new range of nature-inspired fragrances for men and women. With names such as Smokeshow, Cosmic Bang and Modus Vivendi, SŚAINT captivates what it means to have a beautiful idea and execute it with ethical conscience and inspired intention. ssaint.com.au

LEMIM’S handmade collection consists of a few key pieces that feature crisp white cotton and clean, fun silhouettes.

The young women behind LeMim source remnant and recycled fabrics to create easywear pieces that feel as good as they look. thisislemim.com

Beautiful bespoke bridal gowns from KOUKLA by Natasha Prestige evoke a serene and captivating energy. This season Natasha inspires us with lots of floaty tulle, simple, elegant lines and her signature threedimensional laces that are fit for heavenly angels. kouklabride.com.au

The ethically created label UKIYO CO has wedged itself firmly in the future movement. Holding close its ties with sustainability, small-run manufacturing, natural fibres and an essence of beauty, the label has released its latest collection, “Yin and Yang”. The brand creates a lounge, lifestyle and resort-based collection, then amplifies that with the latest yoga and athleisure concepts. ukiyo-co.com

LISA CARNEY JEWELLERY presents the beautiful concept of casting natural shells in gold and silver and matching them with a divine array of coloured glass, to reflect the ocean and its surroundings. Lisa’s jewellery suits all age groups and lifestyles. lisacarneydesign.com

17

“We are so proud of what we have achieved and hope it brings a new lease on life to the CBD of Gosford” – Peter and Jordan Harris PHOTO JOSEF NALEVANSKY

18

COAST STYLE

THE NEW

HOTEL GOSFORD Nearly 100 years after it first opened, the heritage-listed Hotel Gosford has had a spectacular makeover and is once again the star of the local social scene.

WORDS SALLY MACMILLAN PHOTOGRAPHY KITTI GOULD

Hotel Gosford opened its doors in 1926, at the height of the Roaring Twenties, and has been a local institution ever since. The classic Art Deco pub has hosted countless holidaymakers from Sydney in its comfortable rooms (and still does – it’s the only hotel with accommodation in the centre of town) and has been a community hub for, well, 96 action-packed years.

Peter and Jane Harris bought Hotel Gosford in 1998 and today Peter and Jane’s son Jordan Harris is a part-owner and Group General Manager. Jordan oversaw the hotel’s 18-month renovation, which included a complete knockdown and rebuild of its restaurant.

Jordan says plans for the project were first drawn up in 2010 and keeping the hotel’s history alive while creating a contemporary space was an absolute priority.

19

PHOTO WILLIAM WOOD

PHOTO WILLIAM WOOD

FABULOUS FACELIFT Between them, Bergstrom Architects, Evolve Constructions and stylist Lucia Brahman have created just what the Harris family imagined – and more. Black-and-white photos of the hotel and its patrons from years gone by are proudly displayed on the wall leading into the Main Area, the original 1920s elevator adds a touch of Hollywood glamour and the Writing Room on the first floor has been beautifully restored.

Drawing inspiration from the hotel’s history, Hotel Gosford’s new look incorporates rich dark timbers and touches of brass, ambient lighting and a classic colour palette. The Saloon, the hotel’s popular sports bar, was renovated in the second stage of the project and opened on Christmas Eve 2020.

Beer drinkers are spoilt for choice with 32 taps rotating across the Saloon, VIP Lounge and bar in the Main Area, featuring all our favourite brews along with an impressive range of boutique craft beers. And for those who prefer a cocktail or glass of vino, the hotel-wide drinks menu showcases an excellent wine list and an array of new and classic cocktails.

The Saloon’s bar menu offers a great selection of pub grub and sharing plates at very reasonable prices, produced by the team in Earl’s Kitchen.

There’s a packed schedule of live sporting events on the big screen as well as twice-daily members’ happy hours, a traditional meat raffle and Throwback DJ nights every Saturday.

Lucia Brahman sourced the vintage sports memorabilia you’ll see above the Saloon bar and says her role in the renovation project was to put the 20

“icing on the cake” of the design created by the architects. She was also responsible for collating and framing the photo collection.

“The Harris family is very community minded,” says Lucia. “The newlook pub had to appeal to long-time locals as well as presenting a new, contemporary space. They were the best clients – that might sound like a cliché, but they put their trust in me to be creative and run with it.”

Every little detail was taken into account. Branding expert Melanie Topham, from Tomorrow People, incorporated the nostalgia theme into the hotel’s menus, uniforms, website, logo and signage. She says, “We worked closely with the team at Hotel Gosford to establish the pub’s brand narrative and then weave it into a visual representation. It had to capture the history of the iconic hotel while at the same time reflecting its exciting new offering.”

Raked ceilings have been installed in the new area to create a sense of light and height, drawing the eye to high windows and a butterfly shaped roof. This stylish new area features exposed brick, steel and raw concrete, with the tall brick walls of the main façade mirroring the original colonnades of the original 1920s building.

The magnificent displays of plants add a tropical touch to the hotel’s relaxed ambience. They were designed and installed by Jasper Lumiere, founder of the award-winning, Newcastle-based company Sustainable Surrounds. Other new additions include a retractable roof and five-metre mega-screen in the beer garden, state-of-the-art surround sound and DJ system, and function spaces that can cater for birthday parties, wedding anniversaries and corporate functions.

FOODIE FAVOURITES Mark Wisemen, who has 23 years’ experience in the food and wine business in Sydney and Melbourne, was appointed Hotel Gosford’s Head Chef some months before the official opening in November 2021. Earl’s Kitchen is Mark’s first venture on the Central Coast and he wasted no time connecting with local suppliers, growers and producers to provide all the ingredients for the menus.

As Jordan says, “Hotel Gosford loves the community, loves the Central Coast and loves engaging and supporting other local business owners as much as possible.”

Some of these suppliers will be very familiar to local foodies – Little Creek Cheese, Luka Chocolates, Margin’s Mushrooms, La Tartine, Super Green Farms, Whittens Organic Oysters, Olio Mio Olive Oil, Shane’s Seafood, Coast & Country Meats, Coastal Providores, and The Local Yolk.

Mark and the team at Earl’s Kitchen have created a menu that focuses on classic dishes with a twist, along with locally sourced seafood, steaks and rotisserie meats.

Vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of options to suit, and there’s also a kids’ menu.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTRAL Boogie to some of Sydney’s best party DJs on Friday and Saturday nights in the beer garden, or head to the Saloon for Karoake Friday and Throwback DJs on Saturday.

With local live music on Sunday, Trivia on Tuesday and all your favourites through the week, Hotel Gosford is the place to be.

All through the year, Hotel Gosford will celebrate holidays and special events, so keep your eye on the website (hotelgosford.com.au/whats-on) and make sure you book in early!

21

CENTRAL COAST

Contact Belle Property Central Coast principal, Cathy Baker – 0414 241 005 cathy.baker@belleproperty.com 22

PROPERTY INSIGHT

‘AGAVE’

6 BULKARA STREET, WAGSTAFFE Situated in the enviable enclave of San Toy Estate, this magnificent multi-award-winning deep waterfront residence exudes sheer coastal sophistication and unparalleled style. Set on a parcel of 2,190 square metres in a prime northerly position, sun-drenched home takes in uninterrupted views of Brisbane Water and Bouddi National Park. This architectural masterpiece, designed by JPR Architects and built by Construct Central Coast, has unquestionably been crafted to embrace luxurious, lifestyle living at its finest.

From the moment you arrive at ‘Agave’s’ private gates and make your way down the white granite driveway, you’ll be captivated by the attention to detail in design, beautiful Hampton-inspired interiors, and lavish finishes throughout. It’s clear why this prestigious property received the highly acclaimed Housing Industry Association’s ‘Australian House of the Year’ award in 2018.

‘Agave’ presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure one of the Central Coast’s most highly anticipated and premium properties.

To arrange a private inspection contact Belle Property Central Coast principal – Cathy Baker 0414 241 005.

23

Radiant

SUMMER SKIN with Dolce Vita

Vita Catanzariti and her team at Dolce Vita Skin have established themselves as leaders in skincare on the Central Coast over several years, curating an unrivalled experience for clients at their Erina clinic.

Built on the foundation of a holistic approach to skincare – from the inside out – Vita and her team expertly combine the highest quality skincare products with technology, science and medicine; allowing them to build a customised approach to your specific requirements.

Dolce Vita Skin offers industry-leading services and products that are unique to the Central Coast. Consistent with the clinic’s holistic approach to skincare, no one issue is addressed in isolation under Vita’s watch – an expert combination of treatments, lifestyle changes and products give you that healthy glow that Vita has become famous for.

Offering a range of services including dermal therapy treatments, advanced body contouring, aesthetic medicine and medical nutrition, Vita and her team can address any skin concern for clients young or old with their truly integrated approach.

24

Having built her reputation as the Central Coast’s pre-eminent expert in skin, Vita is a passionate advocate for not just skin health but also sun safety. After raising her family and building her business on the Central Coast, Vita has seen firsthand the damage the sun can have on recurring skin issues and the dangers of inadequate protection.

A strong advocate for skin safety, Vita’s first recommendation to any client? SPF. Vita recommends the application of a quality SPF 30 or 50+ regardless of weather, age or lifestyle. We can never be too careful with our skin and, more importantly, we never know when the occasion might call for a quick cocktail in the sun at Terrigal after work.

From a foundation of skin protection and sun safety, Vita and her team will build a bespoke approach to have you looking and feeling your best this summer.

FIND YOUR GLOW WITH DERMAL THERAPY Offering medical grade laser treatments, the team at Dolce Vita Skin can alleviate a range of complex and more routine skin issues including facial capillaries, rosacea and benign pigmentation. This, along with advanced prescription treatments delivered through clinical and signature bespoke laser facials, MP2 Skin Tightening and the latest technology in Body Sculpting with Trusculpt iD. Sculpt your best body with a revolutionary non-surgical, body sculpting treatment. Dolce Vita Skin will have you looking and feeling your best for the holiday season.

Dolce Vita Skin is proud to employ the product services of perhaps the most innovative skincare brand in the world today, Biologique Recherche.

Based on 40 years of meticulous testing regimes, their products are cold formulated and packed full of natural and biotechnical compounds free from artificial fragrance, parabens and silicon.

Vita and the team have taken the guesswork out of Biologique Recherche and offer carefully curated treatment packages ranging from 1-1.5 hours for busy locals or visitors to the area. For anyone looking for instant results this holiday season, they recommend the Soin Restructurant et Lissant package for those looking to recondition, re-plump and increase radiance.

‘NO TRACE FACE’ WITH DR NIK Dr Nik Davies is a qualified GP with more than a decade of experience.

In that time, Nik has become a leading voice in the cosmetic industry and is now a trainer for derma medical Australia, medical adviser to Silk laser clinics Australia and a key opinion leader and overseeing physician for Teoxane Australia.

Long adopting the ‘no trace face’ mantra that correlates so well with the laid-back lifestyle of the Central Coast, Dr Nik offers non-surgical treatments that deliver unique, painless and conservative cosmetic results.

Offering a range of services including dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections and PRP (liquid plasma), Nik also provides short PDO threads and Neograft hair restoration. With the view of being subtle and undetectable, Dr Nik’s treatments perfectly complement the work of Vita and fellow Skin Therapist Kylie to give fantastic natural results.

METABOLIC BALANCE WITH CHIZA WESTCARR In another unique offering, Dolce Vita Skin incorporates the services of their very own Nutritional Medical Practitioner – Chiza Westcarr – who masterminds the clinic’s holistic wellness program. Chiza is widely renowned for her application of the Metabolic Balance Program, designed to rebalance and reset your metabolism in order to achieve both your physical and skin-related health goals.

An integrated 12-week, four-stage program, Metabolic Balance adopts a formulated algorithm to assess unique blood results and identify specific dietary requirements which dictate a three meal per day dietary plan.

Promoting fat burning, decreased fat storage and wellbeing, Metabolic Balance marries up with the variety of Dolce Vita Skin’s treatments to give clients the best opportunity to appreciate immediate results that are sustainable, affordable and driven by clinical medicine.

For more information on leading products, dermal and cosmetic treatments or holistic wellness plans delivered by the team, contact the Dolce Vita Skin team today.

Elizabeth Court, Shop 17/30 Karalta Rd, Erina To make an appointment, contact the clinic on (02) 4365 1173 or follow them on Instagram and Facebook @dolcevitaskin 25

WELLBEING

Looking for fitness inspo for a new you in the New Year? Here’s our guide to the top local spots where you can find your personal best program – and stick to it!

WORDS JACQUELINE O’NEILL

It should go without saying that being active is good for our health – emotionally, physically and socially. Getting an average of 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity in daily reduces our risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers. It also helps with the maintenance of a healthy weight, strong muscles and bones, mental and physical wellbeing, and creates great opportunities for socialising and meeting new people.

Getting started with a fitness regime can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Creating a routine that is centred on classes or includes regularly scheduled training times is the perfect way to keep even the busiest person accountable to their health and fitness goals. It’s not a case of ‘one-size-fits-all’ either, so we’ve done the round-up on a wide range of physical pursuits that can enhance your life both physically and socially.

We’ve also covered the most important part of a fitness routine, one that many weekend warriors and fitness newbies can easily overlook –

your recovery. Eating and sleeping well, stretching and regularly seeing a physio or other physical therapist can greatly enhance your ability to meet your fitness goals.

Keep in mind that all activity options we have covered in this article can cater to beginners, and some serve multiple purposes – for example, Pilates is excellent for general strength and wellbeing, and can also complement a training program for other sports, such as running and many field-based sports. Similarly, golf can be approached socially and just ‘for fun’, but can also be taken on as a competitive sport if that’s more your thing. How you engage in many of these activities, if you do, is totally up to you.

If you’re new to the Central Coast, have been here a while but are keen to improve your health and meet some new friends, or are simply visiting, take your pick from some of the top local spots where you can train, play, and recover this year.

TRAIN While there are countless choices on the Central Coast, we’ve chosen some of our favourites when it comes to training with a specific goal in mind – whether that’s hitting the gym to perfect your lifts or maintain a healthy weight, joining a Crossfit community to compete, engaging in a Pilates class to improve your posture and core strength, or heading down to the beach and learning to surf.

CENTRAL COAST SURF ACADEMY One of the best things about our beautiful region is our beaches – and many of them regularly offer up killer waves for a surf. Whether you’re a local or just here for a visit, learning to surf offers one of the best fitness experiences around. The Central Coast Surf Academy runs lessons at Avoca, Terrigal, Toowoon Bay, Shelly Beach, Wamberal, Macmasters and Copacabana, catering for children and adults, learners or those with world title aspirations.

Mixed and ladies groups, private lessons as well as holiday, in-school and corporate clinics are available.

All CCSA coaches are fully qualified with Surfing Australia accreditations, and are extremely talented surfers – several have also competed on the world stage at a pro level, or have been previously crowned Australian champions.

To book, head online to centralcoastsurfacademy.com, or call 0426 277 742 for enquiries. Socials @surfacademy 26

IMPACT GYM As one of the largest indoor workout spaces on the Central Coast, Impact is more than just a 24-hour gym. They have a philosophy of ‘people first’, and urge their community to live their mantra of ‘belong, believe and become’. The team make it their mission to serve this community first and have only grown stronger alongside their members over a tough few years for the fitness industry.

creche service, this gym will blow you away. It is one of the most expansive and functional spaces we’ve seen, and caters to everyone. Newcomers will find guidance with staff who regularly roam the gym floor and can offer personal training services, while seasoned athletes rejoice in the open spaces, impressive equipment collection, free weights, machines, boxes and benches, sleds, bars and so much more.

With new mirrors and machines, mobility and calisthenics areas, a kettlebell revamp, upgraded bathrooms, saunas and an expansion of the

You’ll find Impact Gym at 1/19 Chetwynd Road, Erina, or @im.gymerina on socials. For enquiries, call (02) 4367 6767.

MINDFUL MOVEMENT PILATES STUDIO & PILATES WITH NIKKI Tucked away in beautiful Long Jetty, Mindful Movement Pilates Studio offers mat and reformer Pilates, Barre, yoga and flow classes suitable for all ages and levels. Their classes will help to strengthen your entire body, gain flexibility, improve joint mobility and find mental clarity. The mood of the classes is light and judgement-free, with plenty of laughter, a gentle burn and lots of enjoyment to be found in the new ways that your body can move. If you’re looking for a studio to complement other kinds of strength or sports training, it is worth noting that there is also a loyal following of athletes who also call Mindful Movement home, and owe their iron cores to Nikki and her team as they continue to chase their sporting goals.

Studio owner Nikki Jury moved ‘Pilates with Nikki’ (the studio’s previous name) online during the pandemic to service her existing clients from home, and when she reopened, Mindful Movement was born.

Pilates with Nikki was so successful that it still runs separately as an online studio, so there are options available for absolutely everyone – even those who can’t make it to Long Jetty.

COHORT CROSSFIT Cohort has been operating on the Central Coast since 2013 and is yet another gym with a lively, social and engaging community. Owners Paul and Sophia Knowles are Central Coast born and bred, and have competed and coached on the professional and semi-professional stage, in an array of sports, their whole lives.

Classes can be booked online, and an exclusive offer is currently available for Central Coast Life & Style readers; for the Mindful Movement Pilates Studio, you can enjoy 14 days of unlimited classes for only $35. Purchase ‘The Intro Pass’ for only $35 using the discount code LIFESTYLE. You can also enjoy your first seven days free online at Pilates with Nikki, followed by 50 per cent off your first month. Purchase the monthly membership with the same code, and cancel anytime.

For more, head to mindfulmovementstudio.com.au, or pilateswithnikki.com.au. For enquiries, phone 0403 236 912.

Socials @mindfulmovement_studio.

Cohort is a gym that specialises in CrossFit, which is a sport incorporating many aspects of functional fitness into high intensity interval training style workouts. From beginners who are simply keen to keep fit, to more serious athletes who want to give competition a go, there’s something on offer for all.

The Cohort team value family above all else, and the gym is an extension of theirs. The community and connection to their people have allowed Cohort to become a household name across many parts of the Coast. For those who call Cohort home, it has and always will be a life-changing facility.

To find out more, visit the gym at 3/217 The Entrance Road, Erina, see cohortcrossfit.com.au or check out @cohort_crossfit on socials.

27

PLAY If you’re searching for a sport with a more social focus or one that is lower impact, there are plenty of enjoyable activities out there.

Golf, sailing, bowls, swimming and group fitness classes can cater to a wide range of physical abilities and social preferences. Another bonus: these sports and activities are often offered in environments that may be more comfortable for those new to sport and fitness.

MAGENTA SHORES GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB Located in the five-star resort setting of the Pullman Magenta Shores and residential properties, between the Pacific Ocean and Tuggerah Lakes, Magenta Shores Golf Club offers a fantastic golfing and lifestyle experience. The course was designed by Ross Watson and is rated as the top resort course in NSW by Australian Golf Digest, and number 22 overall in Australia.

Every hole offers incredible ocean and bushland views and the course is sand based, meaning it’s playable under conditions that would see many other courses close. The club is owned by its members; women and men have equal playing and voting rights, and mixed and women’s competitions are on offer.

Lessons are available for those new to golf, and competition is offered at all levels.

There are dining, spa and other recreational facilities available on site, giving couples and families plenty to do if one of your party doesn’t fancy a day on the green.

Membership is only open for a limited time this season, with the membership year running from March 31, 2022. The club’s current promotion offers an extended membership year – all memberships starting from January 1, 2022 onwards will run until March 31, 2023.

For more information, call 02 4336 0100 or email experience@magentagolf.com.au.

You’ll find Magenta Shores Golf Club at 1 Magenta Drive, Magenta. Socials: magentagolf.

BREAKERS COUNTRY CLUB Located conveniently close to the holiday centre of Terrigal, Breakers Country Club is hidden away on the lake at Wamberal.

Home to the Breakers Men’s and Ladies’ Golf Club, as well as the Breakers Men’s and Women’s Bowling Clubs, there are numerous ways to get active and engage socially.

The club boasts a picturesque, tree-lined nine-hole course with a par of 33 that caters for both competition and social golf. It provides a nice balance of challenging fairways and water hazards while still being a friendly course for the new or developing golfer.

Lessons are available through the pro shop. The club also has two top-class bowling greens – new members are always welcome, with free coaching and bowls available for all. These are both fun options for those looking for an easy-going introduction to fitness.

After you’ve finished up on either green, you can enjoy the venue’s alfresco dining facilities, large outdoor TV screen, cafes, bars and bistro. There’s also a kids’ play area. Recently renovated, the club is open and airy, and the bistro boasts spectacular views of the lake, all the way over to The Skillion in Terrigal.

28

For enquiries, call 02 4384 2661, or head online to breakerscc.com.

Socials: @breakerswamby.

MINGARA FITNESS & AQUATICS

Sitting pretty on the shores of Brisbane Water at Point Frederick, Gosford Sailing Club offers training and racing opportunities for novice and experienced sailors. Throughout the season, which runs from September to April, regattas are also held for visiting classes hosting their state or national championships.

Head a little further north, and you’ll find Mingara One Fitness and Aquatics in Tumbi Umbi, attached to the newly renovated Mingara Recreation Club. If you’re seeking a lifestyle gym, this is it – membership includes access to two storeys of modern cardio and weights equipment, a full suite of group classes (including hot yoga), as well as access to the aquatic centre. The gym is social and approachable, with friendly staff roaming the floor to support its members throughout the day. Personal training services are also available.

A variety of classes are catered for in competition, including Lasers; 16ft skiffs; a mixed fleet (Contenders, 29ers, 13ft skiffs, Fireballs and NS14s); Etchells; sports boats; and juniors (Sabots, Optimists, PJs and Flying Elevens). If none of this makes a whole lot of sense to you, don’t be alarmed – learn to sail programs are offered for juniors, teens, adults, families, school groups and more.

The indoor aquatic centre comprises an eight-lane, 50-metre Olympic pool, a heated hydrotherapy pool and a heated leisure pool that is popular with families – the whirlpool is a local favourite. The centre offers adult swim classes, squad training and Aqua Fitness (as well as learn-toswim and squad classes for kids), and all activities are led by qualified instructors and lifeguards.

The club’s bistro offers a generous contemporary menu that showcases a range of fresh and locally sourced produce with a focus on seafood – executed exceptionally well. Children’s meals are available, as well as dishes for those with various dietary needs. The marina offers casual berthing for those arriving by water – just be sure to pre-book.

The change rooms and showers are spacious, modern and clean, with private change areas and lockers. There is a wellness cafe on site that serves pre- or post-swim healthy snacks, as well as a swim shop in case you forget your cap or goggles (or even your floaties).

GOSFORD SAILING CLUB

Gosford Sailing Club is located at 28 Masons Parade, Gosford. For enquiries, call 02 4325 7216. Socials: gosfordsailingclub.

For enquiries, call Mingara reception on 02 4349 7799 and ask for the gym or the pool. You can also head online to www.mingara.com.au.

Socials: @mingaraone and @mingaraaquatic.

RECOVER The most important part of any exercise regime is undoubtedly how you recover.

Adequate sleep, a good diet and the right physical therapies will help you continue to improve at your physical pursuits and strengthen your body.

THE STRETCH LAB Stretching is one of the best ways to improve mobility and flexibility, relieve stiffness and increase your range of motion. It can also reduce stress, improve blood flow to muscles, decrease your injury risk, improve muscle relaxation, enhance your physical and athletic skills and overall amplify your quality of life.

But where do you start? The Stretch Lab is a practitioner-assisted stretch studio where people regularly go to reap the above benefits, whether

you live an active lifestyle or have had a lifetime of not exercising – it’s never too late to start. Compared with self-stretching, assisted stretching allows for a deeper stretch across a greater number of muscles, through all planes of movement.

To learn more or to book, head to thestretchlab.com.au or call 0451 189 418. You’ll find the clinic at 1/64 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal, or @thestretchlab_ on socials.

29

EATSENSE Eatsense was established on the Central Coast in 2013 by owner and Accredited Practising Dietician (APD) Nicole Saliba, and has since grown into a team of passionate dieticians across six Central Coast locations, headquartered in Erina. They believe that healthy eating does not have to be complicated or restrictive (yay!), and that eating well should be stressand guilt-free.

Diet culture is in the bin and strict food rules, kilojoule-counting and meal plans are not sent out the door with every client – in many cases, dieting can actually be a risk factor for future weight gain and other physical and mental consequences. Instead, the focus at Eatsense is on forming a good relationship with food and gaining the knowledge needed to best nourish our bodies. The team specialises in women’s health, gut health and plantbased eating, but every consultation is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals. Food is fuel, so if you are fit and active, eating the right food is extremely important, as well as figuring out whether you are actually eating enough to reach your goals.

For locations or to book a consult, head to www.eatsense.com.au or call 02 4311 3623. For some great tips, and to learn more, follow @eat_sense on socials.

TOOWOON BAY OSTEOPATHY & DRY NEEDLING Since moving to the Central Coast in 2018, Toowoon Bay Osteopathy & Dry Needling has grown from a solo practice to a team of four, including osteopaths, one chiropractor and one massage therapist. Just last month, the practice underwent an extensive renovation to add a new clinic room.

While all the team are very good at what they do, the thing that sets this practice apart is their collective experience in trigger point dry needling, with the practice’s staff qualified to educate others in the field on this impressive treatment.

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on treating pain through the identification of biomechanical issues, not only treating the problem but ideally preventing it from happening again. This involves soft tissue massage, joint manipulation, stretching and exercise rehab.

The best part? This is one of the few treatments we know of that, in many cases, can have you back in the gym, on the green, or in the water the very same day. These guys are the hidden secret of many local athletes who love to recover quickly and efficiently from their ‘niggles’, so be sure to book an appointment before their books close for 2022.

Bookings can be made online at toowoonbayosteopathy.com, or by calling 02 4303 0540. You’ll find the clinic at Shop 1, 86 Toowoon Bay Road, Toowoon Bay, or @toowoonbayosteopathy on socials.

30

CRYOPLUS Founded on years of research and development, CryoPlus provides two purpose-built clinics that use world-leading sports science and technologies to optimise your recovery and overall health, at both Erina Heights and Umina. CryoPlus offers cryotherapy (where your body is blasted with chilled air at minus 110ºC), magnesium floats (where you lie motionless in a bath of calming magnesium salts for one hour), a Normatec recovery lounge (where you slip on some giant compression boots for a minimum of 30 minutes to improve circulation), an infrared sauna, and a range of related beauty treatments.

From athletes wanting to maximise performance to those seeking enhanced pain management, help with shaping their summer body, or a moment to unplug and recharge, there is a recovery, rejuvenation or relaxation treatment here for everyone.

For locations and to learn more, head to cryoplus.com.au or call 02 4367 0356 (Erina) or 0429 798 098 (Umina). Socials: @cryoplus_centralcoast or @cryoplus_uminabeach

ASPIRE PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE If you want the same level of physiotherapy treatment provided to professional footballers and cricketers, World Tour surfers, countless aspiring elite athletes and swimmers, middle-aged blokes with sore backs, mums with headaches, crazy people who run all weekend for fun, growing kids with sore knees, or seniors with dodgy hips who just want to feel half (or a third) of their age… look no further.

At Aspire, Dr Andrew Nealon leads a growing team of five physiotherapists who have a collective 90-plus years of experience in the field, many of these in serving professional sporting teams. Andrew was previously Head Physio for the Central Coast Mariners, as well as the Senior Physio for Liverpool Football Club for three years from 2010. He has also worked with several international cricket teams and the rest of his resume is equally impressive (you can find it on the Aspire website). The entire team is one of the highest calibre, and several are still engaged in ongoing research at the frontiers of their field.

Currently located at 479 Wattle Tree Road, Holgate, Aspire’s focus is on experience and overall excellence. Individual consultation rooms are offered for their clients’ privacy and, later this year, the team will move to a new, expanded site at 419 Terrigal Drive, Erina.

To make an appointment, call 0456 625 293, or you can book online at aspirephysiotherapycentre.com.

MOVEMENT IS KEY

Let’s keep your spine moving The Spinal Movement is a modern and innovative Gonstead chiropractic clinic located in the heart of Toukley.

Our goal is to keep your spine and nervous system functioning at its highest level.

We invite you to experience the Gonstead difference.

0431 385 271 thespinalmovement.com.au Shop 4/28 Canton Beach Rd, Toukley NSW 31

32

PHOTO CLAIRE – OAK STREET IMAGES

PROPERTY INSIGHT

LIVING THE DREAM Ever wondered what a buyer’s agent does?

Lifestyle & Investment’s Cesca Greene gives us the lowdown on how she matches buyers with their ideal homes.

WORDS SALLY MACMILLAN PHOTOGRAPHY JOSEF NALEVANSKY

Although Cesca Greene is relatively new to the world of real estate, she’s certainly making a big impact. Cesca, her husband and their two daughters came to Australia from London in 2016 for a “twoyear adventure” that quickly turned into a full-time love affair with the Central Coast. After buying their family home in North Avoca – and then three investment properties in one day – Cesca realised there was a niche in the market for buyer’s agents.

Within three busy years this dynamic former English teacher had obtained her real estate licence and established her own company, Lifestyle & Investment, which helps clients who can’t be on the spot to buy homes, weekenders and investment properties on the Coast.

Cesca’s impressive network of conveyancers, mortgage brokers, real estate agents and renovation specialists facilitate the property-buying process for clients who are based interstate, overseas, in Sydney or even on the Coast.

Pool designed by Crystal Yu of Jewels 4 Pools

“Many clients are, in fact, locally based and simply time-poor or understandably wanting support in the important decision-making process involved in purchasing property,” Cesca explains. “We have access to properties that aren’t advertised online and to vendors who might not want to go through the open-house type sales process for privacy reasons.

“We can do everything for our clients, from the initial search to inspections, negotiations, representing them at auctions, completing due diligence and managing every stage of the process through to settlement,” she adds. “We tailor our services to each individual buyer – some might want the full ‘search and negotiate’ package while others might want us just to negotiate a purchase on their behalf.”

33

PERFECT MATCH

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

There were very few buyer’s agents on the Coast when Cesca launched her company, but as awareness of the services they offer has increased – particularly during covid, when the regional market boomed spectacularly – she says there are now several flourishing “BA” businesses in the area. “Our company has expanded to keep up with demand and broaden the suburbs we can cover, and now includes Ella Conroy, another fully licensed buyer’s agent,” says Cesca.

Local knowledge and a keen eye for a property’s potential are essential attributes for a successful buyer’s agent. Cesca knows the Central Coast inside out and having recently renovated her house in North Avoca, she has extended her network of property experts even further.

Liaising with real-estate agents is a vital part of Cesca’s role. Buyer’s agents work solely for their clients, whereas real estate agents act on behalf of their vendors. Pairing a buyer with the right property can save a lot of time and stress for all parties.

“We conduct extensive interviews with our clients to understand what they need and do video inspections of properties, sometimes live,” says Cesca. “Just recently, I found an off-market property for a couple in Singapore who plan to return to Australia next year. We filmed everything in the house and garden, as well as the walk to the beach.

PHOTO CLAIRE – OAK STREET IMAGES

“Now we are working with builders to prepare their house as a holiday rental, and when the owners move in next year, we’ll be there to advise how to renovate it to their specifications.”

Buyer’s agents Cesca Greene and Ella Conroy

34

Builder Mitch Gordon, of Umina-based MG Building Co, renovated the house over nine months, a huge job that included replacing the original wave-shaped roof, adding a stunning ‘inside-outside’ room and cladding the exterior. He and Cesca tell the story of the rebuild with a lot of jokes and laughter – it’s not surprising to learn that Mitch has gone on to work on several of Cesca’s clients’ homes.

Designers (and neighbours) Max Thitchener and Benita Elliott created the plans and oversaw the “rather daunting” Development Application process. “We were very lucky that Max came out of retirement to design our home – I’d admired many houses he had worked on,” says Cesca.

The brief was to give the substantial family home a “classic coastal” look inside and out; the beautiful result speaks for itself.

Mitch says one of the biggest challenges for his team was working through covid. “We didn’t know if the site was going to be locked down any time at short notice – you don’t want to be left without a roof halfway through.”

Luckily that didn’t happen, but he emphasises that with any renovation, you never know exactly what lies ahead and both the builder and homeowner need to work creatively together.

“For example, when we knocked a wall down upstairs, we discovered air-conditioning ducting and had to rethink the design of that space.

We put our heads together and came up with a very stylish solution that now looks like a feature.”

Cesca is a big fan of property makeover shows – Kevin McCloud’s Grand Designs is a favourite – and has “enormous empathy” with clients who tread a similar path. “Our project has given me a great insight into what’s involved in a major renovation – and how important it is to know you’re in safe hands when it comes to your own property.” Lifestyle & Investment’s clients couldn’t agree more.

For more information, visit lifestyleinvestment.com.au.

Roof by Distinguished Roofing

CESCA’S TOP TIPS

for a successful renovation • When buying a house that you plan to renovate, remember that it’s all about location, location, location: you can change a building, but you can’t move it!

• Be aware of house values in your area so you don’t over-capitalise on home improvements.

• Don’t rush into renovations: live in the house through winter and summer so you get to know it in different light and weather conditions, and then plan what you want to change and what can stay the same.

• Work with a designer or draftsperson who knows Council regulations inside out. Any renovations that involve exterior alterations require a Development Application (DA) and professionally drawn-up plans.

Even if you are only planning to change a house’s interior, builders need precise plans to work from.

• Finding the right builder is key to a successful renovation! Ask around for referrals and interview at least three when requesting quotes.

• Remember you’ll be sharing your home with your builder and their team, so personal rapport is very important.

• Open and regular discussions with your builder and tradespeople throughout the process are vital.

• Be flexible! Renovations often uncover unforeseen problems that can add time and costs to the job. Pressuring your builder to complete by a specific deadline could lead to a rushed job.

35

WORDS JACQUELINE O’NEILL

Nestled between the serene Tuggerah Lakes and the beautiful beaches of Toowoon Bay, Shelly Beach and Blue Bay, Long Jetty’s evolution over the past five years has been nothing short of extraordinary.

PHOTO YASMIN MUND

Characterised by NSW’s longest jetty (351m long, built in 1915), the suburb has predominantly had a past as a tourist destination. Complete with a cinema - the former Savoy - and roller skating rink, several banks also operated their agencies of The Entrance from the Long Jetty strip up until the late 1990s.

After a period of much inactivity through to the early 2000s, the area has now gentrified considerably, playing host to a range of upmarket boutiques, trendy cafes, suave bars as well as a Pilates and a yoga studio.

Think Newtown vibes…but by the lake, and around the corner from the beach.

With the median price of homes in the suburb increasing by more than 54 per cent since 2017, and more than 25 per cent in the last 12 months, young families and investors are dying to move in. We’ve rounded up the best spots to stop by for a meal, with a Long Jetty twist.

MODERN ORGANIC When you walk into Modern Organic, the vibe is friendly and kind, and you’ll likely see several yogamat toting locals grabbing coffees to go after a class.

Step further inside, however, and you’ll find a beautiful garden hidden out the back, where on any given weekday, you’ll find creatives tapping away on their Macbooks, mums enjoying espresso and spiritual types discussing the meaning of life over a matcha. Offering so much more than just coffee and a bite to eat, this yoga café celebrates mind, body and spirit through honest and delicious wholefoods, workshops and a focus on community connection.

Casual, concession and unlimited membership options are on offer for yoga classes, with a variety of classes on offer for beginners through to advanced yogis. The café is a safe space for those with intolerances or allergies to eat without any worries, with local, organic and seasonal produce a top priority. Food is generally bought in bulk to reduce the café’s environmental impact, and waste is recycled or donated wherever possible.

To book a class or find out more, call (02) 4311 6400 or visit modernorganic.com.au. You can find the café at 310A The Entrance Road, Long Jetty, or @modern_organic on socials.

36

EAT & DRINK

THE GLASS ONION SOCIETY One thing you quickly learn about Long Jetty is that no café is just a café.

The Glass Onion Society is a Central Coast institution and has been at the heart of Long Jetty’s revitalisation over the past 10 years. The space is a café, restaurant, gallery space, bookshop and entertainment venue, featuring impeccably vintage decor and ample indoor greenery. The coffee is exceptional and the atmosphere is creative and honest, warm and welcoming – inviting conversation between both friends and strangers.

Furry friends are invited to dine alfresco, and the menu (for human guests) is considered and creative. Featuring options such as the ‘Beasty Boy’, the ‘Hangover II Burger’ and the ‘Frisky Brisket’, the offerings ensure that those with dietary preferences (GF, veggie and vegan) are well looked after, too. Portion sizes are wholesomely generous.

To grab an espresso, tuck into lunch or buy a book, swing by 1-2/308 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty, or call (02) 4326 1650 for enquiries. Socials @theglassonionsociety.

GREEN TANGERINE Across the road from the Onion, you’ll find the world of Green Tangerine, an artisan bakery café where the team is passionate about flavour, seasonal produce, art, culture, coffee and sustainable living.

With a focus on supporting creative small-batch producers, you’ll find great beans courtesy of Sydney-based boutique roast house The Little Marionette, and the finest sourdoughs, pastries and other treats all baked in-house using French traditional baking methods. If you love baked goodies, this is the café for you. The outdoor seating area is positioned in front of the famous Long Jetty mural, offering the perfect photo op, and pets are also welcomed.

Croissants, baguettes and danishes are all in gleeful abundance, with favourites such as the Biscoff Belgian Waffles also hitting the spot for sweet tooths. If savoury is more your thing, various bagel, burger and bowl options are also available. Food is beautifully plated, drawing in a reliable following from locals and visitors alike who love a brekkie snap for the socials. Once again, GF and veggie friends are catered for, and pets are welcomed outside.

To visit, punch 393 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty into Google Maps, or call (02) 4339 1162 for enquiries. Socials @greentangerinelongjetty.

THE SAVOY If you’re looking for the perfect spot for dinner and a good time with a twist, check out The Savoy. First opening in 1956, The Savoy was the Central Coast’s first and only CinemaScope (widescreen) cinema, and a hub for entertainment in the post-World War II era. Closing as a cinema in 1976, the upstairs portion of the building laid dormant and derelict for 40 years, before rising from the ashes in 2018 and being rebuilt into the space that it is today.

The front section of upstairs is a bustling bar, serving an array of fine wines, craft beers and quirky cocktails, while the back section has been restored to its former cinematic glory. Complete with tiered seating, booth-style dining spaces and table service, you can book tickets to a classic movie most Thursday nights – think Dirty Dancing, Top Gun, ET and more. The menu is simple yet popular, offering pizza and tapas. Weekends see the space taken over by DJs dropping dance beats, and plans are in the works for comedy nights, poetry recitals, wellness nights with a focus on mental health, and even more weekly throwback movies.

For a night out with a difference, head over to 2/391 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty.

For enquiries, call 0406 461 122, or DM through socials @thesavoylongjetty.

37

EAT & DRINK

FINE DINING

& FABULOUS VIEWS

One of our favourite chefs, Dimitris Aronis, recently took over The Cowrie as owner and executive chef. Here, we check out what’s new at Terrigal’s classic ocean-view restaurant.

WORDS SALLY MACMILLAN PHOTOGRAPHY TOM ANTCLIFF

The Cowrie has been one of the top-rated Central Coast restaurants for decades. It’s as famous for its panoramic views over Terrigal Beach and beyond as for its fine-dining menus and immaculate service – so what can we look forward to in 2022?

Dimitris Aronis is working with well-known restaurant operations manager Lynn Fernandes (pictured above with Dimitris) and The Cowrie’s highly professional team. The restaurant’s interior has been redesigned, so you can now enjoy Casual Bar Dining as well as a more traditional setup in the Ocean Room, the Dining Room and, of course, on the Balcony.

Menus will feature as much local and sustainable produce as possible, says Dimitris. “This includes working with local small farmers and growers in the area as well as sourcing sustainable fish and seafood.

“We also have local distilleries and breweries on board who have been very supportive of our new direction – we will be collaborating further and designing dinners together in the future. Our goal is to be the best restaurant on the coast.”

38

Five-course degustation dinners will be held every last Sunday of the month and kick off in January. These are ticketed events – $125 per person, plus matched wines $75 per person – our best advice is to book early!

January 30, 2022: Courses will be paired with French wines, presented

by SOM Australia’s renowned French sommelier Stephane Pommier.

February 27, 2022: Courses will be matched with a range of gins from Distillery Botanica, hosted by the Distillery’s knowledgeable manager Nigel Weisbaum.

March 27, 2022: Courses will be paired with Saint Wines, presented by the company’s Italian wine expert (and “football tragic”) Luca Scuri.

On Valentine’s Day (Monday February 14, 2022) a special Loverz Dego menu will be served at lunch and dinner - $180 per person, plus matched wines $75 per person.

The Cowrie is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Saturday and for lunch on Sunday, at 109 Scenic Highway, Terrigal. Call 02 4384 3016 or book online at thecowrie.com.au.

HEAVEN Discover uncrowded beaches, beautiful bushland and understated luxury when you stay at one of Belle Property Escapes’ Central Coast getaways.

Whether you’re looking for a family holiday, a couples’ hideaway or a weekend escape from the city, Belle Property Escapes has the perfect place for you. Turn to the next page for a selection of gorgeous properties at Killcare Heights, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, Macmasters Beach and Pretty Beach that cater for between six and 14 guests.

Belle Property Escapes’ extensive collection of holiday homes includes stunning waterfront properties located in the best positions along the Central Coast, from Macmasters Beach to Blue Bay and Killcare to Daleys Point, as well as a selection of peaceful bush and lakeside properties.

Belle Property Escapes’ concierge team is ready to help you make the most of your time on the Coast and organise unforgettable experiences for you, from arriving by seaplane, boat or helicopter to booking a table at the best restaurants in the area.

When you book a romantic weekend, they can arrange an in-house chef and a home visit by one of their expert massage therapists. And if you are hosting an intimate corporate retreat, the team can cater to your needs, supplying retreat-style yoga, fitness trainers, cooking classes and lots more.

Call 02 4360 1717 or visit belleescapes.com.au/central-coast

“The Central Coast is one of my favourite holiday destinations” –Elyse Knowles

39

40

ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT

ARAUCARIA RETREAT AT TOOWOON BAY

Having achieved a record sale price for Central Coast beachfront properties, this magnificent three-level home is one of the latest additions to the Belle Property Escapes portfolio. Combining an outstanding architectural design by Mark Eastham with an exclusive beachfront setting, Araucaria Retreat at Toowoon Bay is a showcase of clean, contemporary lines, bespoke finishes and understated luxury.

Araucaria Retreat at Toowoon Bay makes the most of its natural environment, erasing the distinction between indoors and out with vast decks on all four sides, heated plunge pool and a luxurious poolside cabana, all nestled in a private, gated setting.

All four generous bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms and the open-plan living areas on two floors is perfect for families and friend groups. Entertaining is a breeze, with an ultra-modern kitchen and covered deck overlooking the ocean.

Ducted climate control and a gas fireplace make the living easy all year round and there’s parking for three cars in the garage and carport.

Araucaria Retreat at Toowoon Bay has direct access to the beach and is a 400-metre stroll to cafes and shops.

Up to eight guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes: 02 4360 1717.

41

AUDREY’S AT KILLCARE

LAKESIDE AT MACS

KILLCARE HEIGHTS

MACMASTERS BEACH

This freshly renovated three-bedroom, two-bathroom home is an easy walk to Killcare Beach and pretty Hardys Bay village – perfect for a family or small groups of friends. Kick back and relax in this airy coastal home that features spacious, light-filled interiors and gorgeous beach views.

Open-plan living spaces flow to a covered deck with barbecue and there’s plenty of parking.

Ideally located for families looking for a serene escape in a beautiful bush setting, this airy coastal home sits directly across from Cockrone Lagoon and is within easy walking distance of Macmasters and Copacabana beaches. The four-bedroom, three-bathroom retreat features two generous open-plan living spaces, a spacious, modern kitchen, characterfilled interiors and a large grassed area for picnics and games.

Up to six guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

Up to eight guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

TOMMY’S AT KILLCARE

HIBISCUS HOUSE AT NORTH AVOCA

KILLCARE HEIGHTS

NORTH AVOCA

Featuring stunning views in two directions, this luxurious, three-bedroom property is a five-star retreat set against a magnificent coastal backdrop.

The interiors were designed by Thomas Hamel and are the definition of understated elegance, showcasing a lofty atrium design. Open-plan living spaces flow onto the covered deck and the rumpus room opens onto a large garden. Tommy’s is a two-minute drive from Hardys Bay village.

Just five minutes’ drive to North Avoca beach, this charming holiday home with gorgeous ocean views is perfect for families or couples.

The spacious layout consists of three light-filled bedrooms and open-plan living spaces that flow to a covered deck that wraps around the house.

A lovely garden surrounds the house and there’s parking for four cars.

Up to six guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

42

Up to six guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

COPA SANDS

SEABREEZE AVOCA BEACH

COPACABANA

AVOCA BEACH

Boasting an incredible elevated ocean view, this five-bedroom holiday house has ample space for a couple of families. An open-plan kitchen and living/dining areas spill onto a large entertaining deck, and the games room adds another getaway space. Children can explore the fully fenced backyard while grown-ups play Bocce – and it’s only seven minutes’ walk from Copacabana Beach.

This ultra-spacious home, showcasing spectacular views across Avoca Beach from the main living areas and most bedrooms, is perfect for family groups. Set on three floors, it has six bedrooms, three bathrooms and an open-plan living/dining area that flows onto the covered verandah. Best of all, it’s only 150 metres from Avoca Beach’s surf club, cafes and cinema.

Up to 14 guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

Up to 12 guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

PRETTY VIEW AT PRETTY BEACH

BEACH SHACK @ MACMASTERS

PRETTY BEACH

MACMASTERS BEACH

Delivering magical views across the waterfront, this four-bedroom, threebathroom home is the very definition of coastal holiday style combined with a smartly finished design and light, airy interiors. Fully renovated throughout, Pretty View features integrated living/dining zones spilling out to the expansive deck, and a rumpus or second living area and guest suite on the ground floor.

“Shack” doesn’t quite do justice to this stylishly renovated holiday home that’s a mere 300-metre walk to the beach. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom property offers a highly functional, split-level layout with dual living zones and plenty of outdoor entertaining space over two decks and an internal courtyard. It delivers an effortless holiday vibe year-round – in winter you get to enjoy the wood fireplace.

Up to eight guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

Up to seven guests. Contact Belle Property Escapes 02 4360 1717.

43

BOOK CLUB EXTRA

SPIRITUAL

COFFEE

Martin Hudak, multi-award-winning bartender and co-founder of Sydney bar group Maybe Sammy, has released a fabulous book all about coffee – from its origins to recipes for classic and contemporary cocktails.

WORDS SALLY MACMILLAN

How Martin Hudak found time to research and write Spiritual Coffee in a year packed with the Maybe Sammy group’s new bar openings (Sammy Junior and Dean and Nancy on 22), his involvement with a coffee roasting company and his role as global ambassador for Mr Black’s Coffee Liqueur is a mystery.

No doubt copious amounts of caffeine went into the process and Martin knows more about the powerful little bean – and how it can work so beautifully with spirits – than most. While working at London’s American Bar in the famous Savoy Hotel, he made the world finals of the National Barista Competitions four times and won best in the world in 2014, and in 2017 he won the prestigious World Coffee in Good Spirits competition.

And that’s just to mention a few of the many awards Martin has amassed over recent years.

As global ambassador for Mr Black’s, the world-famous coffee liqueur roasted and brewed at Erina’s Distillery Botanica, Martin hosts seminars for professionals in the hospitality business to educate them about coffee and how to create coffee cocktails. The book is a natural extension of his desire to share his incredible knowledge and expertise.

“I am so thrilled to be bringing my passion for coffee cocktails to the world through this beautiful book, to try and show everyone how rich and interesting these drinks are and how much of an integral role they play in cocktail culture,” he says.

Spiritual Coffee covers all you’ve ever wanted to know about coffee, from the discovery of the coffee bean through to the first known combinations of spirit and caffeine, and crystal ball-gazing into the future of coffee cocktails. Along the way, Martin provides a wealth of historical detail and entertaining stories, placing a strong emphasis on the importance of the quality and style of beans and roasts.

After examining the history and origins of the most popular coffee cocktails – from Irish Coffee to the Espresso Martini and White Russian – the book features both classic recipes and modern interpretations from the world’s best bartenders, including Erik Lorincz (London), Aiden Bowie (New York), Darren Leaney (Melbourne), Agung Prabowo (Hong Kong), Moe Aljaff (Barceonla) and Remy Savage (London/Paris) as well as Martin’s own recipes.

44

A donation of $1 from each book sale will go to a group of producers located in the Matas de Minas region in Brazil, specifically Parque Estadual da Serra do Brigadeiro, where funding is sorely needed to combat deforestation and tree-planting. Martin chose this cause after being lucky enough to visit, sample the coffee grown there and meet the family leading this charge, thanks to 3Brothers Coffee who have a fantastic relationship with the producers.

Spiritual Coffee is available at bukful.com/product/spiritual-coffee for 39 euros.

BOOK CLUB EXTRA

Words

ON THE WAVES The Central Coast’s inaugural writers’ festival was a huge success and director Angela Bennetts is planning a dazzling follow-up for June 2022.

WORDS SALLY MACMILLAN

Almost every ticket for every event at Words on the Waves, the Central Coast’s first writers’ festival, sold out within days of being advertised.

Held over 2021’s June long weekend, the festival hosted more than 40 well-known writers and speakers at 20 sessions – among them OzHarvest’s Ronni Kahn, author and columnist Nicki Gemmell, Nardi Simpson, author of Song of the Crocodile, and ABC radio presenter and author Richard Fidler.

WoW 2022 will be held at Umina and Ocean Beach Surf Live Saving Clubs, from June 3 – 6; as Nikki Gemmell remarked last year, “This is the most beautiful literary festival in the world!” Tickets will go on sale in April.

Festival patron Margaret Pomeranz hosted a movie screening and talk with acclaimed film and theatre director Neil Armfield, best-selling children’s author and illustrator Matt Stanton ran a fun-filled family day, and the weekend ended with a literary cruise on Brisbane Water led by historian Grace Karskens and memoirist Vicki Hastrich.

Words at Wagstaffe is set to feature Jane Caro, the Walkley Awardwinning columnist, author and broadcaster, whose thriller The Mother is due in March; Grace Karskens, emeritus professor of history at UNSW and author of People of the River: Lost Worlds of Early Australia; Garry Linnell, renowned journalist and author of Moonlite, Buckley’s Chance and The Devil’s Work; and Dianne O’Brien, known as Auntie Di, the chairperson of Mingaletta Corporation whose 2021 memoir is called Daughter of the River Country.

What can we expect from WoW 2022? Festival director Angela Bennetts, who moved from Sydney to Umina with her husband and their two young daughters in 2018, gives us a few tantalising clues.

“Because last year’s festival was so successful, we’re doubling the number of events and venues for 2022 – that means we can reach a bigger audience, and we’re really excited about that,” Angela says.

Meanwhile, Words at Wagstaffe, the festival’s satellite event, will be held at Wagstaffe Hall in partnership with The Bouddi Society on Saturday March 26, 2022. The 2021 event sold out within 48 hours, so make sure you sign up for updates at wordsonthewaves.com.au.

Coastie book-lovers are in for an exciting year.

“The events and guest-led panels, featuring a mix of authors and high-profile speakers, will be similar in 2022, and it will have the same intimate feel – we’re not a corporate-style sales event,” she explains. “We will run another book-related cinema event and expand the incredibly popular schools program – more than 1,200 primary school kids attended last year. Writing workshops, led by renowned authors, are a new feature.

“We are working with authors and publishers on WoW’s theme for 2022; every festival is different, reflecting its place, regional interests and concerns. It’s very much a forum for exchanging ideas, too; the Central Coast has a thriving literary, artistic and book-loving community.”

Malcolm Knox, Bri Lee and Rick Morton at WoW 2021

Angela has an impressive track record in the book business. One of her earliest jobs was at Doubleday publishers, where she worked as a copywriter; subsequently she became involved with the National Young Writers Festival in Newcastle and then worked on the famous Ubud Writers & Readers Festival in Bali for two years.

“Ubud was where I really learned the ins and outs of literary festivals,” Angela says. “The biggest challenge is long-term financial security, as it is for any not-for-profit organisation. This year we’re thrilled to have funding from RISE (Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand) Fund, the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) and the Central Coast Council.

“And, of course, we’re very grateful to all our volunteers and the continuing involvement of Mandi McIntosh and The Book Shop Umina.”

PHOTO SYL MARIE

45

BOOKCLUB

Hot favourites for relaxing summer reading FABULOUS FICTION

REAL LIFE

If you’re craving a taste of Europe, To Italy, With Love provides a delightful appetiser.

Nicky Pellegrino tells the story of Londonbased Sarah-Jane, who sets off on a road trip around Italy with her dog, Baxter, in the aftermath of a messy break-up with her celebrity chef boyfriend. Sarah-Jane’s car breaks down in a small mountain village and as circumstances conspire to keep her in Montenello longer than intended, she becomes involved with the community. Trattoria owner Assunta is a central character – descriptions of her food are mouth-watering – and satisfying romances evolve.

The perfect beach read. Hachette, RRP $32.99

Cry of the Kalahari is co-written by Delia Owens, author of Where the Crawdads Sing, and her former husband Mark Owens. Originally published in 1984, it is the riveting account of seven years they spent in Botswana in the 1970s. The young couple flew to Africa, bought a beaten-up Land Rover and somewhat naively headed into the vast, inhospitable Kalahari Desert. As Mark says, “It is the story of our lives with lions, brown hyenas, jackals, birds … and how we survived and conducted research in one of the last and largest pristine areas on earth.” Hachette, RRP $32.99

Wish You Were Here is prolific author Jodi Picoult’s latest offering and, once again, she totally nails an emotionally complex slice of contemporary life. Diana, an ambitious young art appraiser at Sotheby’s, is about to take a romantic holiday with her surgeon boyfriend Finn when the covid pandemic hits. Finn stays in New York while Diana goes on the longawaited trip to the far-flung Galapagos Islands, where she becomes stranded. Diana is forced to reassess her carefully planned life, career and relationships in what’s destined to be another huge bestseller. Allen & Unwin, RRP $32.99

Fans of Billy Connolly – comedian, actor, musician and all-round legend – will relish his thoroughly entertaining autobiography, Windswept & Interesting. Born in Glasgow in 1942, Billy survived shocking childhood abuse to become a shipyard welder, folk musician and stand-up comedian. An appearance on Michael Parkinson’s TV show in 1975 took the edgy, cult hero to an international audience and over the following years, Billy starred in hundreds of shows, movies and documentaries. He bowed out of live performances at age 76 after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease but his extraordinary spirit shines through in this remarkable book. Hachette, RRP $49.99

Set in New York City in the 1960s, Harlem Shuffle is an eye-opening, atmospheric ‘literary crime’ novel by two-time Pulitzer Prizewinning author Colson Whitehead. This multi-layered drama focuses on furniture dealer and part-time fence Ray Carney, who is trying to lead a law-abiding life with his young family despite long-time links to criminals and crooked cops. Ray gradually succumbs to the politics and plots of Harlem’s menacing underworld in an entertaining series of encounters with vividly drawn characters. It would make a great movie – you can almost hear the soundtrack as you read the book.

Hachette, RRP $32.99

In 2005, junior reporter Oli Groves is called to the scene of a bloody murder in a Melbourne share house. One housemate is dead, one accused of her murder and the third is missing.

Almost 10 years later, the missing girl is found dead and Oli is again assigned to cover the ‘Housemate Homicide’ case. She is driven by personal and professional reasons to find the truth, and the mystery unfolds with breathtaking twists and turns. Set against Australia’s radically changing media landscape, The Housemate is a terrific new thriller by Sarah Bailey. Allen & Unwin, RRP $32.99

Snow Country is a follow-up to Sebastian Faulks’s acclaimed Human Traces but can also be read as a powerful standalone novel. Set in Europe in the turbulent years between the start of World War I in 1914 and the rise of Nazism in 1933, Snow Country weaves together the lives of young journalist Anton, his older French lover Delphine and Lena, a poverty-stricken young Austrian woman. Schloss Seeblick, a once innovative psychiatric clinic in Carinthia, plays an important part in a weighty novel of big ideas that has been described as “Faulks’s most poignant love story yet”. Penguin, RRP $32.99

Chris Hammer is an award-winning author in the ‘outback noir’ genre (his previous books include Scrublands, Silver Trust) and his latest gritty crime novel will have you hooked from the first page.

Treasure & Dirt introduces a new detective duo, Sydney homicide cop Ivan Lucic and keen young Bourke-based constable Nell Buchanan, who are thrown together to investigate a macabre death in the opal-mining town of Finnigans Gap. The pair become embroiled in a lawless world where thieves pillage mines, religious fanatics operate a shady sect and billionaires run the show.

Allen & Unwin, RRP $32.99

46

THRILLS & CHILLS

CLASSIC CRUISE CO SYDNEY HARBOUR + PITTWATER + CENTRAL COAST + HAWKESBURY RIVER + QUEENSLAND

Celebrate your next special occasion on the stunning waterways of Sydney Harbour, Pittwater and the Central Coast onboard Classic Cruise Co’s luxury motoryacht MV Highlander!

The family owned and operated charter boat company specialises in tailored cruises for up to 18 guests, offering a choice of BYO drinks and food or fully catered experiences.

Classic Cruise Co also operates offshore whale-watching cruises – or maybe you’d like to make a glamorous arrival at a waterfront destination while you’re exploring beautiful Brisbane Water?

MV Highlander can take you to the newly opened Drifters Wharf for brunch, lunch or dinner, stopping along the way for a swim at a secluded bay.

The graceful, 46-foot MV Highlander is designed for comfort and its ample deck and elegant interior spaces can be set up to suit your party’s individual requirements. Classic Cruise Co’s professional team is on hand to help you create the perfect charter – it’s all about you!

Call 0449 005 005 • bookings@classiccruiseco.com.au • classiccruiseco.com.au 47

Belle Property Central Coast Killcare 02 4360 1717 | Terrigal 02 4385 2141 www.belleproperty.com/central-coast 48

CENTRAL COAST