Winter 2025
Acknowledgement of Country
City of Coffs Harbour acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land, the Gumbaynggirr people, who have cared for this land since time immemorial. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging, and commit ourselves to a future with reconciliation and renewal at its heart.
Garlambirla-gundi-yu City Junyirrigam-bu jungangarraynggi yaanga gungangulam wajaarrgundi yilangandi ngiyaa gawbarri: yaam Gumbaynggirr girrwaa yaamangandi yaam wajaarr jalumbawnyarr ngarraynggang. Ngiyalagay garla-ngarraynggi yanggidamgundi Guuyunga, Jurruya jalumbawnyarr, giili, waybunyjigam. Baya ngiyalagay yilaana minggiiya gunganbuwa ngayinggirra Girrwaanbiya; garra-buugili.
Local focus: Mirum Creek waterfall, Orara Valley, by Yvonne Everett. Want to share your images of home, the beautiful place we live, work and play? Email comms@chcc.nsw.gov.au
BANDALUZIA
Reflections, one year on
By Mayor Nikki Williams
My first 12 months serving our community as Mayor has been quite the ride – a whirlwind.
As a first-time Councillor it’s been a steep learning curve, and also a thrilling journey to get across all of the issues in play across our Local Government Area. One of my first initiatives was to get out and about in the community – through a series of open door meetings in the towns and villages. This grassroots engagement gave me a good understanding of what is really on people’s minds. My next mobile office will be on 1 October at Boambee East (keep an eye on the City’s Facebook page for details).
I’ve also strived to strengthen the City’s connections with its neighbouring Councils. Many of the challenges we face are shared and there is no doubt we are stronger as a group, and a more compelling voice when it comes to lobbying.
The first term of your new City of Coffs Harbour Council has seen some major high-level plans adopted. These include the MyCoffs 2035 – a blueprint for where we want to go as a community.
This is a shared vision covering all aspects of local life – and to be successful it requires the buy-in of multiple stakeholders: Governments, organisations and businesses, groups and clubs and individuals.
While MyCoffs 2035 is strategic, Council also endorsed specific plans like the Delivery Program which covers the wished-for deliverables over the next four years.
Drilling further down, the endorsed Operational Plan sets out the City’s todo list for this financial year of 2025-26.
Some of the big ticket items include:
• New amenities at Len Towels Oval, Nana Glen, $840k
• Toormina Sports Complex new playing field, carpark and footpaths new amenities $720k
• North Boambee Valley flood detention basin $3.256m
• West Woolgoolga Newmans Rd Intersection $795k
• Arrawarra Beach Road road renewal $620k; and
• North Boambee Road road-raising and infrastructure works $7m.
Another highlight of the first 12 months has been the renewal of a number of the City’s special interest committees. These are coalface groups of passionate people, covering subject areas such as Disability Inclusion and Access, Positive Ageing, Sustainability, Tourism and the City Centre Masterplan. There have been many other wins in the past year – including securing financial relief for sports organisations hampered by the wet weather impact on the City’s grassed fields. It is my utmost goal to continue to be freely available to all as we work together to improve this beautiful part of the planet we call home. Please, enjoy this issue of Hinterland, Harbour, Home which looks at some of the big stories over winter.
Local focus, big impact
By Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick
We recently celebrated Local Government week and it was a timely moment to reflect on the vital role Councils play in shaping the everyday lives of our communities.
From maintaining local roads and parks to delivering essential services and cultural programs, local government is the level of government closest to the people –and often the most relied upon.
Yet, as highlighted in a recent report from Local Government NSW, Councils across the state are facing an increasing burden from cost shifting.
This is where responsibilities traditionally funded by State or Federal Governments are passed onto local Councils without the necessary resources to support them.
The latest figures show that NSW Councils are now absorbing over $1.5 billion annually in unfunded
responsibilities, which equates to around $500 per ratepayer each year. For the City of Coffs Harbour specifically the cost shifting is over $14 million.
For regional communities like ours, this challenge is particularly acute. We are proud to deliver a wide range of services and infrastructure that support the wellbeing and prosperity of our residents. But with rising operational costs and constrained revenue streams, the financial sustainability of local government is under real pressure.
At the City of Coffs Harbour, we continue to advocate for fairer funding models and greater recognition of the work councils do. We also remain committed to transparency, innovation and community engagement - qualities that underpin this very magazine.
In this edition of Hinterland, Harbour, Home, you’ll find stories that celebrate our region’s resilience, creativity, and connection. From local heroes to major projects, it’s a snapshot of the people and places that make our city thrive.
Thank you for your continued support and for being part of our journey.
Local government is the level of government closest to the people –and often the most relied upon.
City of Coffs Harbour Acting General Manager, Andrew Beswick
Salute to service
Navy Squadron welcomed at spectacular parade
Coffs Harbour was awash with pride and pageantry as hundreds of locals lined Harbour Drive to witness the return of the Royal Australian Navy’s 725 Squadron.
The Squadron exercised its right to Freedom of Entry to the City — a tradition dating back to medieval times — with a ceremonial march and flyover that drew big crowds and heartfelt applause.
“It’s been six years since our adopted Squadron last visited,” said Mayor Nikki Williams. “This spectacular event was exciting for Coffs and a wonderful way to honour our ongoing relationship with 725 Squadron.”
More than 100 officers and sailors marched through the City, saluting the Mayor and being formally ‘challenged’ by a NSW Police representative before presenting a scroll confirming their right of entry. The parade concluded at Brelsford Park, where one of the Squadron’s MH-60R Seahawk helicopters landed for public viewing.
“725 Squadron celebrates the 10-year anniversary of its re-commissioning in 2025, and conducting this Freedom of Entry Parade is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this milestone with our partner City,” said Commander
Raymond McErlean CSM, RAN.
Commodore Matt Royals, RAN — who led the Squadron’s first Freedom of Entry parade in 2016 — returned to Coffs Harbour to join the Mayor in reviewing this year’s event.
“The Freedom of Entry which I led in 2016 was one of the highlights of my time in command,” he said. “I am extremely proud of the people and the achievements we have made over the past 10 years, and feel honoured to participate alongside the Mayor in reviewing this year’s parade.”
The event was a powerful display of tradition, community spirit and mutual respect — an occasion to remember for all who attended.
This spectacular event was exciting for Coffs and a wonderful way to honour our ongoing relationship with 725 Squadron.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Nikki Williams
since 725 Squadron last visited Coffs Harbour
officers and sailors in the ceremonial march
Seahawk helicopter landed for public viewing anniversary of 725 Squadron’s recommissioning in 2025
Coffs ahead of the curve
Leading the way on development applications
The City of Coffs Harbour is outperforming the State benchmark for development application (DA) assessments — and the numbers speak for themselves.
In 2024/25, the City took just 89 days on average to assess DAs, smashing the NSW Planning Minister’s benchmark of 115 days. It also beat its own previous performance, improving on the 94day average achieved in 2023/24.
“It’s been a team effort to reach this high-performance level, driven by a focus by City staff on driving process efficiencies toward continued improvement,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
The City assessed 688 DAs last financial year, with 78 per cent processed within the expected timeframe. For single dwellings, the turnaround was even faster — just 60 days on average, compared to the Minister’s expectation of 94 days.
“Obviously not all development applications are the same. Some can be straight forward and processed quickly while others are complex and require far more detailed assessment,” said Acting Group Leader Sustainable Places, Luke Perry.
The City also made major gains in lodgement times — the period between a DA being submitted and entering the City’s system. In 2024/25, the average was 13 days, down from 22 the year before and ahead of the Minister’s 14-day expectation.
“We acknowledge that 22 per cent of the DAs took longer than the expectation time and we are committed to continued improvement,” Mr Perry said.
“By the same token we are proud to be one of the leaders in the time it takes to determine applications.”
With year-on-year improvements and a strong showing against State benchmarks, Coffs Harbour is proving it’s getting the job done.
Kings of air
Gravity-defying thrills headed for Coffs Harbour
The world’s best freestyle motocross and BMX riders are heading to Coffs Harbour next March as part of the Freestyle Kings Live 2026 world tour — a six-country, 50-show extravaganza that promises high-flying thrills and family-friendly entertainment.
The show will take place at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium on Saturday 14 March, following the City of Coffs Harbour’s successful efforts to secure the event.
“This is another opportunity for the City of Coffs to present itself on the world stage as we host this group of outrageously talented thrill seekers,” said Mayor Nikki Williams. “This superstar event will draw people to Coffs from far and wide. The action will be world-class and we cannot wait to host the Freestyle Kings next March.”
Headlining the show is the legendary Robbie Maddison, often dubbed the modern-day Evel Knievel, alongside his sons Kruz (14) and Jagger (11). Robbie said, “At 43 years of age it is no secret I am closer to the end of my freestyle motocross career than I am to the start. My accomplishments on a dirt bike have been beyond my wildest dreams, but by far my greatest achievement is watching my boys share the same passion I have for this sport.”
“They are little showmen at heart and while I might be a bit biased, I think it’s the favourite part of the show for the crowd,” he added.
Joining the Maddison family is 20-time X-Games gold medallist and current freestyle motocross World Champion Rob Adelberg.
“I’m from regional Victoria and my dirt bike has taken me all over the world for the last 20 years, and I can tell you, there is no better crowd to ride in front of than in places like Coffs Harbour,” Adelberg said.
“Make no mistake, these are the best riders on the planet, and we’ll be throwing down tricks that need to be seen to be believed.”
Promoter Josh Hannah said, “Regional Australia is at the very forefront of our thinking when it comes to live events.”
With a star-studded line-up and a stadium primed for action, the Freestyle Kings supershow is set to be one of the biggest events on Coffs Harbour’s 2026 calendar — and a thrilling night for the whole family.
Tickets go on sale on 28 August through Ticketek here.
Make no mistake, these are the best riders on the planet, and we’ll be throwing down tricks that need to be seen to be believed.
6 countries 20 X-Games gold medals Saturday 14 March 2026
Current freestyle motocross World Champion, Rob Adelberg
Freestyle Kings Live at C.ex Coffs International Stadium
included in the Freestyle Kings Live world tour won by headliner Rob Adelberg
A shared vision for Coffs Harbour
Long-term plans to guide City’s future
City of Coffs Harbour Council has endorsed three key documents that will shape the region’s future: the MyCoffs 2035 Community Strategic Plan, the Delivery Program 2025–29 and Operational Plan 2025/26, and the Community Engagement Strategy.
“MyCoffs 2035 outlines the aspirations of the community – things like liveable neighbourhoods, a healthy environment and economic prosperity – and as such it requires collaboration from all parts of our community to move ahead,” said Mayor Nikki Williams. The Delivery Program and Operational Plan translate this vision into action, with a $67.2 million capital works budget for 2025/26. Projects include new amenities at Len Towels Oval in Nana Glen, upgrades to Toormina Sports Complex, major
drainage and road renewals, and progression of a new waste transfer station and laboratory.
“The Operational Plan drills down into the Delivery Program – providing a schedule of works to be implemented in the next 12 months. It’s where the rubber hits the ground,” said Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick.
The Community Engagement Strategy ensures residents have a voice in shaping these outcomes.
“It’s our guide to ensure we consistently seek and incorporate community feedback into City processes,” Mr Beswick added. Together, these plans provide a roadmap for a connected, sustainable and thriving Coffs Harbour – one built with and for the community.
View the MyCoffs 2035 Community Strategic Plan here.
View the Delivery Program 2025-29 and Operational Plan 2025/26 here.
Big bash, big stars, big night Sixers return with cricket royalty in tow
Cricket fans, mark your calendars — the Sydney Sixers are heading back to Coffs Harbour for a blockbuster Big Bash League clash against the Brisbane Heat on Monday 5 January at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.
The Sixers’ return is already generating buzz, thanks to the signing of Pakistan superstar Babar Azam, who will make his BBL debut this season. Azam, one of the world’s most prolific batsmen, has scored over 10,000 international runs and was the fastest player in history to reach 5,000 ODI runs.
“The Sixers against the Heat at the Stadium is about as big as it gets for sport in a regional centre, and the addition of Azam will add just another level of gold to the contest,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
“By every account he’s a run-scoring machine so buckle up for fireworks at a packed house at Coffs.”
The Sixers’ all-star line-up also includes Steve Smith, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Philippe and captain Moses Henriques.
“There’s no better way to celebrate the New Year than soaking up the party atmosphere at the Stadium for a Sixers game,” said Acting City Planning and Communities Director Ian Fitzgibbon.
“BBL is turbocharged entertainment which has extended cricket’s reach, particularly to younger people.”
Sydney Sixers General Manager Rachael Haynes added, “It has become a home away from home for our club. The support we receive from the local community has been incredible and we've loved the opportunity to bring the game regionally.”
By every account he’s a run-scoring machine so buckle up for fireworks at a packed house at Coffs.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Nikki Williams
Sixers vs Heat at C.ex Coffs International Stadium international runs scored by Babar Azam cricket superstars in the Sixers’ all-star line-up
A new chapter for the Jetty Hybrid design to preserve iconic pier
Coffs Harbour’s heritage-listed Jetty is set for a thoughtful renewal, with Council endorsing a hybrid design approach that blends tradition with innovation.
The Jetty — the last surviving State Government-built pier in NSW from the late 19th century — has long been a symbol of the city’s coastal charm. But after more than $4 million in renewal works since 2008, its timber components have reached end-of-life, prompting the need for a comprehensive upgrade.
At its July meeting, Council resolved to adopt a mixed-materials approach using timber and fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) components. The design aims to preserve the Jetty’s historic aesthetic while improving durability and reducing long-term maintenance costs.
“This is seen to be the best solution for broadly maintaining the aesthetic of the Jetty which is important from a cultural and heritage perspective,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
“Ongoing maintenance costs should also be less expensive with a hybrid mix and the structure will have an overall longer life.”
The estimated cost of the hybrid renewal is $21 million — significantly less than the $30 million required for a timber-only rebuild. Council also approved $237,962 for primary balustrade works and has secured $1 million through the State Government’s Crown Reserve Improvement Fund.
“This grant and the City’s contribution gives us a pot of $1.142m which will enable a part renewal of some components of the pier in 2025/26,” said Acting City Infrastructure Director Daniel Noble.
“Now we have certainty around the design approach, it improves our prospects of securing the necessary grant funding.”
“While it is a treasured local icon, it’s also a regionally, State and nationally significant asset,” added Mayor Williams.
“Because of that we need the support of other governments to fund the full renewal.”
While it is a treasured local icon, it’s also a regionally, State and nationally significant asset.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Nikki Williams
Honouring legacy, celebrating community
Culture and connection in NAIDOC Week
Yarrila Place came alive with culture and community as hundreds gathered to mark the official opening of NAIDOC Week in Coffs Harbour.
The City of Coffs Harbour and the Yandaarra Aboriginal Advisory Committee hosted a full day of events, including a flag raising, live performances, giveaways, a Housing Forum and Expo, and guided tours of Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM)with more NAIDOC Week activities scheduled throughout the week.
The day culminated in the Yandaarra Aunty Grace Roberts Community Awards, held in the River Oak Room.
This year’s ceremony was especially significant, recognising 50 finalists in the 50th year of National NAIDOC Week.
“It was a fabulous celebration of community for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
“I stand in awe of the achievements and application of so many who work tirelessly for their community.”
“To have so many here today is a source of pride,” added Acting Group Leader Sustainable Places, Luke Perry.
“There were big numbers at all of the curated events – from the flag raising and YAM tours through to the formal speeches and awards.”
The Grace Roberts Memorial Community Development Award was presented to Cylie Brown for her work supporting young people through Mission Australia’s Transition To Work program.
Other award recipients included Aunty Heather Duncan, Aunty Shirley Duroux, Uncle Bryce Filewood (posthumously), Waagay Biliinyjarl, Yarrawarra Arts, Cara Reeves and Ebony Davies — recognised for their outstanding contributions to culture, education, sport and community life.
It was a fabulous celebration of community for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people,
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Nikki Williams
gathered for the NAIDOC Week opening at Yarrila Place recognised in the 50th year of National NAIDOC Week honoured for contributions to culture, education, sport, and community life
Smart showers, smarter savings
Households invited to trial water-saving tech
Fifty locals are set to benefit from a clever new device that could help households cut down on water use — and trim some of their most significant bills.
City of Coffs Harbour is giving away 50 ShowerStar units as part of a watersaving trial. The device is a smart digital timer that mounts onto an existing shower pipe or showerhead and automatically detects when a shower begins. It then uses a traffic light system to guide users through a four-minute shower: green to start, amber at the halfway mark, and red when it’s time to hop out.
“These ShowerStar units will be gold for young families as kids and particularly teens can spend a long time taking a shower because they don’t pay the bills and so have little understanding of the cost of water and electricity,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
Participants can also pair the device with a free app that tracks shower habits — including longest and shortest showers, and average time — offering useful feedback to help change behaviour. Shorter showers can significantly reduce household water and electricity
bills. Hot water accounts for 29 per cent of the average household’s energy use and is one of the largest sources of household carbon emissions.
To be eligible for a free ShowerStar unit, residents must live in the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area, be connected to the town water supply, and agree to have their water use checked by City staff as part of the trial’s evaluation.
“The trial sits within the City’s Water Efficiency Program and our goal is to assess whether ShowerStar can lead to behavioural change to reduce household water consumption,” said Acting City Infrastructure Director Daniel Noble.
“It’s a clever, visually appealing product that can be installed in your home in a couple of minutes.”
Each ShowerStar unit is valued at over $70, making this a valuable opportunity for households to save water, energy and money — while contributing to a more sustainable future.
These ShowerStar units will be gold for young families as kids and particularly teens can spend a long time taking a shower.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Nikki Williams
free ShowerStar units available in the trial recommended shower length guided by the device
Tourism triumphs on Coffs Coast City to host
Tourism Awards following local wins
The Coffs Coast has once again proven it’s a powerhouse in regional tourism, with a string of local operators recognised at the 2025 North Coast Tourism Awards held in Byron Bay. From standout hospitality to unforgettable experiences, our region’s tourism talent was on full display. Among the winning and finalist operators were Park Beach Hotel Motel/Hoey Moey, Spare Chef Catering, Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, Aanuka Beach House, Tourism Restaurants and Catering and City of Coffs Harbour.
In another big win for the night, Coffs Harbour was announced as the host city for the 2026 North Coast Tourism Symposium and Awards — a major coup for the region and a chance to showcase our vibrant visitor economy.
““This event is a valuable opportunity to showcase our region’s exceptional tourism experiences and to bring
industry leaders and operators together at Coffs in the heart of the North Coast visitor economy,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
“We last hosted in 2018 – the first time it was held – and as a destination we’ve evolved considerably since then.”
The 2026 program will feature a one-day symposium with leading speakers and industry panels, networking events for operators and professionals, familiarisation tours with local businesses and experiences and a gala awards presentation.
“Coffs Harbour has proven its ability to host major business events and conferences,” Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick said.
“We look forward to highlighting our outstanding local operators, natural assets, and community spirit to the wider industry.”
Nature’s new classroom
Botanic Garden Discovery Centre opens
A new jewel has been unveiled in the lush surrounds of the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden. The Nature Discovery Centre officially opened its doors in July – much to the delight of community groups, educators and nature lovers.
Nestled beside old growth forest and nature trails, the architectdesigned Centre offers an indoor/ outdoor classroom and educational hub for schools and community groups. It’s already drawing attention from across the North Coast.
“This is a fantastic new asset for the community in what is one of Coffs Harbour’s most stunning attractions,” said Deputy Mayor George Cecato.
“The Discovery Centre melds perfectly with the landscape and will serve as a hub for groups – particularly school children – to venture out and learn about the plants and animals in the garden like a David Attenborough-style doco.”
The $350,000 project was a
collaboration between the City of Coffs Harbour, Prosper Coffs Harbour, and the Friends of the Botanic Garden, with support from a State Government grant, generous donors, and local volunteers.
“The Botanic Garden offers a safe outdoor classroom experience using the existing network of signposted paths and boardwalks,” said Friends President Graham Tupper.
“This beautiful new indoor/outdoor classroom space and the educational kits are designed to make learning about plants, gardening, wildlife and nature fun and easy.”
Two new education kits have also been launched, designed for primary school students and featuring short circuit walks with guide notes for teachers.
“The new building is adjacent to the natural forests and the nature trail – so it’s handy to a range of discovery walks,” added Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick.
The Discovery Centre melds perfectly with the landscape and will serve as a hub for groups – particularly school children – to venture out and learn about the plants and animals in the garden like a David Attenborough-style doco.
City of Coffs Harbour Deputy Mayor, George Cecato
July 2025 2 Guided paths
Smart tools, stronger tourism App recognised for innovation in visitor experience
The City of Coffs Harbour’s digital approach to tourism has earned high praise, with the Coffs Coast Explorer App and a network of digital kiosks named a finalist in the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards.
While the City didn’t take home the top prize, being shortlisted in the Tourism, Hire and Services category was a proud moment — recognising the impact of digital tools that are helping visitors explore the region with ease.
“These innovative digital tools have significantly enhanced visitor engagement and access to local attractions, services, and information,” said Mayor Nikki Williams.
“The Explorer App, with its intuitive design and comprehensive listings, has experienced a remarkable increase in user downloads, with nearly 6,000 to the end of April. Feedback to the app has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Launched at the All One Under the Sun Festival, the app was developed in partnership with Specialist Apps and offers on-demand access to foodie and nature experiences, events, heritage trails and Indigenous stories.
Complementing the app are seven digital kiosks located at key visitor hubs including The Clog Barn, Coffs Central, Sawtell RSL, Woolgoolga Visitor Centre, and cafes in Nana Glen and Ulong.
“Complementary to the app, the strategically placed kiosks provide accessible touchpoints for information, booking assistance, and emergency services – further streamlining the visitor journey,” said City Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick.
“The kiosks and app have contributed to an estimated 10 per cent rise in extended visitor stays and a measurable boost in local economic activity.”
These innovative digital tools have significantly enhanced visitor engagement and access to local attractions, services, and information.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Nikki Williams
Coast Regional Tourism Awards, Tourism, Hire & Services category
What's on
Mark
these in your calendar
Experimental Botanical Drawing: Join artist Marc Renshaw for a creative workshop blending nature and technology. Start at Yarrila Arts and Museum, then draw from life at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden.
Seasonal Observations
Walk: Join a free guided walk at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden to spot what's flowering and fruiting each season. BYO water and hat!
God Of Carnage: Two couples meet to settle a playground scuffle, but civility unravels fast in this sharp, fast-paced Echo Theatre production set in Australian suburbia – coming to Jetty Memorial Theatre.
Australian Kart Championship Grand Final: Coffs Harbour hosts the thrilling final round of the 2025 Australian Kart Championship for the second time at the Coffs Harbour Kart Racing Club.
In the Booth: Learn to record instruments and vocals across two hands-on workshops with audio engineer Ahva Dub. All equipment provided. For ages 14+. No experience needed— just bring your creativity!
Woopi Spring Gardening: Learn to prepare your garden for summer and autumn at the Woopi Regional Community Gardens at this hands-on workshop. Build new skills, tackle pests, and maximise the season’s growth.
Bandaluzia: Experience Bandaluzia’s exhilarating fusion of contemporary flamenco with jazz, classical and world music at Jetty Memorial Theatre - led by ARIA-nominated guitarist Damian Wright.
C.ex Group Coffs Harbour Running Festival: A scenic community event taking over Coffs, featuring a new Marathon, Half Marathon, fun runs and a family walk. Run through the iconic Jetty Foreshores for the first time!
Airborne – Yarrila Arts and Museum Explore: Invisible airborne elements through printmaking, papermaking, and suspended forms by artists Sara Bowen, Christine Courcier-Jones, and Penelope Lawry.
Oztag State of Origin 2025: The ultimate NSW vs QLD rivalry returns to C.ex Coffs international Stadium. Don’t miss the action when Australia’s top players battle it out interstate.
Burning questions
Welcome to the section of the City’s Magazine where we dive into the topics that matter most to our community. From local insights to pressing issues, this is your go-to spot for pressing questions and answers.
What’s happening with the Moonee Beach footbridge?
The footbridge, which spans Sugar Mill Creek and connects Moonee Beach to Sapphire Beach, has been closed since November 2022 due to eroded wooden piers and structural instability. It was officially removed in June 2025 by NSW Crown Lands following the approval of a development application by the City of Coffs Harbour.
The NSW Government, in collaboration with the Coffs Coast Regional Park Trust, Reflections Holiday Parks, and City of Coffs Harbour, is now progressing plans for a replacement bridge.
In stage 1 of the project, happening this financial year, a preferred design will be selected and work undertaken to secure environmental and planning approvals, with a new development application to be lodged with the City.
Crown Lands will contribute $350,000 for this stage of the project, with an additional $100,000 provided by the Coffs Coast Regional Park Trust representing the City and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) - and a further $50,000 from Reflections Holidays.
Stage 2, the construction phase, is scheduled to commence in 2026/27 subject to funding availability. The new bridge is expected to take up to 12 months to complete once construction begins.
What is the City of Coffs Harbour doing about coastal erosion?
The City acknowledges the community’s concern about coastal erosion, particularly following recent severe weather and large swells.
The ocean is currently in an erosion cycle, where sand is being stripped from beaches and circulated offshore. This will reverse when the ocean eventually enters an accretion cycle, when sand will naturally return to the shoreline.
To address the recent impacts to beaches the City has:
• Repaired multiple beach access points in recent weeks.
• Installed temporary stairs at Sawtell Beach north of the viewing platform, with plans for permanent repairs once conditions stabilise.
• Monitored infrastructure impacts and assessed the effectiveness of emergency measures like sandbagging, which were deemed unsuitable due to potential worsening of erosion during the current ocean cycle.
The City is actively working with NSW Government agencies to explore safe and environmentally responsible solutions. Any long-term interventions must meet regulatory and environmental approvals, especially in sensitive coastal zones.
Longer term, the City has adopted the Coffs Harbour Coastal Zone Management Plan, which guides longterm responses to coastal hazards such as erosion, inundation, and vegetation degradation. This plan is aligned with NSW Government frameworks and informs land-use planning and development controls.
What is the maintenance schedule for the Sawtell Memorial Rockpool?
The Sawtell Memorial Rock Pool is maintained on a regular schedule to ensure it stays safe and enjoyable for the community. During the warmer months, maintenance takes place every three weeks. This includes draining the pool by about 300mm, applying algaecide (preventing growth of algae) to the entry stairs and ramp, and allowing the pool to refill naturally with the next high tide. In cooler months, this routine shifts to every four to five weeks, as algae growth slows down.
Sand build-up is another issue crews monitor closely. Over four to six months, wave and tidal activity can cause sand to accumulate in the pool.
Staff consult with local swimmers and typically plan de-silting before the June and December school holidays. However, this work is highly dependent on weather and tide conditions. For de-silting to proceed, low tide must occur around 8:00–8:30am and swell height must be below 1.5 metres. These constraints often lead to cancellations — five attempts have been called off since March. The next is scheduled for 18 August, pending conditions. When de-silting goes ahead, the pool is drained the day before and signage is installed. A 12-tonne excavator is brought in at first light to remove the sand and place it over the pool edge. Each excavator bucket is checked for rubbish or debris before it is left for the tides to redistribute naturally.
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