I N S I D E
WE CELEBRATE LOCAL WOMEN SLAYING THE BUSINESS SCENE
GET THE INSIDE SCOOP ON WHAT'S COMING TO THE COAST
EXPLORE OUR VERY OWN GIN WONDERLAND
Well, hello March. Pleased as we are to see you, you’ve certainly crept up on us quicker than expected.
As we bid farewell to an incredible summer, we welcome Autumn with excitement and optimism.
We look forward to International Women’s Day, a day we love to celebrate here at Coasties Mag. We are so lucky to have so many inspiring and successful women in business in our community.
And, we've teamed up with Hotel Gosford to bring you an International Women’s Day luncheon not to be missed: entertainment, guest speakers, two course lunch with a decadent dessert table and more!
In this issue, we champion some of the incredible women here on the Central Coast. Including the ever-talented Fiona Smith with our cover art. We explore our own gin wonderland and we get ready to dance the day away at the Long Jetty Festival. Will we see you there?
Once again, we’d like to shout out to our ever loyal supporters and advertisers not only here with the mag, but with our other projects too - we don't exist without you.
Lastly don’t forget to share the love - tag us and the business where you found this copy, a simple and quick way to support a small, local business.
With love, Tash + Nikki x
Did you know, each time we produce our little mag for the Coasties community we plant 500 trees!
Issue 11 | Autumn '23
Thank you to all the incredible humans that made this issue special.
Owner Editors: Tash Robertson & Nikki Tiedeman
Coasties Mag c/o Suite 1/220 The Entrance Rd, Erina NSW 2250 Follow us on the socials @coastiesmag
For advertising or editorial opportunities, contact us at: hello@coastiesmag.com
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we work, live and play on: Darkinjung country. We pay respects to all Elders past, present and emerging acknowledging that sovereignty was never ceded.
Coasties is an independent publication No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without permission. All information found in this magazine is for information only, and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of printing. Coasties does not accept responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in information.
It's Autumn and in March we celebrate International Women's Day.
What better way to capture the essence of this time of year and such an important time to celebrate our local lady legends than with Fiona from @floating in the bardo's creation for our cover We love it! What do you think?
>> LADIES OF THE CENTRAL COAST - WOMEN SLAYING BUSINESS
>> SHOOT THE POOCHCAPTURING YOUR 4-LEGGED LOVED ONES
>> BAR BOTANICASPRINKLING JAZZ AND GIN INTO OUR LIVES
>> BANANA BLOSSOM MAKES SALAD DREAMS COME TO LIFE
>> THE CHIC SALON OPENING A 2 0 LOCATION
>> UNLOCK DISCOUNTS AT LOCAL STORES THROUGHOUT THE CENTRAL COAST
>> THE LOCAL HOLIDAY DESTINATION ON OUR DOORSTEP
>> WEEKEND WALK - FROM BATEAU BAY TO FORRIES, THE PERFECT TRAIL
>> SWEAT BABY, SWEATSWELLTA IS BRINGING THE HEAT
>> HYDRAFACIAL - THE NO PAIN, ALL GAIN TREATMENT FOR EVERYONE
LITTLE QUIRKS • TROPICAL ZOMBIE • SAM WINDLEY
THE RAMS • THE PUNK ROCK HILLBILLY • DEADSHOWWS
STUPID BABY • BAD WITCH • THE GOOD LOVE
250+ FOOD, FLEA & MARKET STALLS
LIVE MUSIC • CRAFT BARS • KIDS CORNER
STREET ART • BARK PARK• CHILLI VILLAGE
BACKYARDPARTIES•ACTIVATIONS,WORKSHOPS& MASTERCLASSES•ECOZONE•NOBYOORGLASS
SUN MARCH 12 2023 10AM - 6PM
LONGJETTYFORESHORE-TOOWOONBAYRD&THOMPSONST
Girrakool Blues Festival
March 3-5
The Entrance
A New Orleans-style free event featuring international, national and local blues and roots acts. Event goers will be encouraged to consider and respect the country we enjoy the event on.
Rayon Riot V - International
Women's Day Extravaganza
Saturday March 11, 7pm –10:30pm
Naughty Noodle, Ettalong
Join the celebration at one of the Coast's biggest and most loved IWD events. With the theme "Shero" we'll raise awareness against bias (even our own) and take action for equality.
Lighthouse Festival
Saturday, March 11
Norah Head
This one-day boutique music, food and wine gathering is staged at Norah Head lighthouse reserve. The lineup includes Pete Murray, Pierce Brothers, Steph Strings, Darren Middleton (Powderfinger) and D’Arcy Spiller.
The Rubens and Meg Mac
Headline Long Jetty Festival
Sunday March 12, 10am - 6pm
Long Jetty Foreshore
One of the biggest community events to hit the Central Coast. There'll be 250+ food, flea and market stalls, craft bars, street art, kids corner, chill village and a bark park.
Vissla Central Coast Pro
March 13 - 18
Avoca Beach
World-class surfing returns to Avoca Beach. Catch the elite sixday event which forms the fourth and final stop on the Vissla NSW Pro Surf Series.
Rock at the Races
Saturday March 18
The Entertainment Grounds, Gosford
One day. 10 acts. 50 massive hits. Presented by TripleM Central Coast, the lineup includes Daryl Braithwaite, Wendy Matthews, Richard Clapton and more.
Flavours by the Sea
Saturday, March 23
The Esplanade, Terrigal
In one festival, you’ll practically experience a trip around the world. Tantalise your tastebuds with an array of international cuisines and enjoy live musical performances.
Kingswood Tours The Coast
Friday March 24
Ocean Beach Club, Wamberal
Following the release of their new single Burning Holes and studio album Home, Kingswood is embarking on their ‘Hometowns’ tour which will see the band undertake 120+ dates on a custom made bus. Wambi hosts the show for the Coast.
Davistown Putt Putt Regatta and Wooden Boat Festival
Sunday April 2
lloura Reserve, Davistown
Join this free family-friendly event to showcase the history, heritage and local character of the putt putt watercraft. Expect water focused activities and on-shore entertainment.
Daylight Savings ends
Sunday April 2
Wind those clocks back one hour at 3am.
BYO Bar at The Entrance
Boat Shed
Thursday April 27 from 3pm
Happening on the last Thursday of every month. Enjoy freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters while taking in the best view in town. Tickets only $10 and pre ordering oysters is recommended.
Cirque Mother Africa
Saturday April 15
Laycock Street Theatre, Wyoming
This high octane show returns to celebrate 15 years of touring and promises a cultural experience like no other. Family friendly, vibrant, colourful and highly entertainingit's African to the core.
The Coast Race Day
Saturday May 6, 11am -5pm
Gosford Race Club, Gosford
The richest race day on the Coast's racing calendar and a sell out every year. Get in quick for this one.
Love Mum Mothers Day Event
The Vibe by Lady Boss Markets
Easter Special
Sunday April 8, 3pm - 8pm
Sporties, Norah Head
Pet and family friendly with fantastic stalls and an even more fantastic sense of community. The Vibe Markets were created with support local in mind. A must do!
Sunday May 14, 10am - 3pm
The Entertainment Grounds, Gosford
Treat the mother figure in your life to a fantastic day out with everything from market stalls, a ticketed breakfast or lunch option, to a fashion parade and pamper station. What's not to love?!
Celebrate International Women's Day at one of the Coast's most loved events
Ladies, you don’t want to miss this!
We’re joining forces with the team at Hotel Gosford to bring you an incredible luncheon this International Women’s Day, hosted by the fabulous Marney McQueen
2022's event was a roaring success, and we’re thrilled to be joining forces with Hotel Gosford to bring the women of the Coast another amazing event to this year’s theme, #EmbraceEquity.
On arrival, you’ll enjoy a glass of bubbles, followed by a spectacular two-course shared meal curated by Hotel Gosford’s Head Chef. To finish, a delicious dessert bar has been arranged for you to enjoy.
There will be a Q&A session with some very special guests (still to be announced).
Plus, in true Hotel Gosford style, there will be plenty of other surprises in store on the day.
A percentage of ticket sales and purchases made from the carefully crafted drinks menu will be donated to a local charity.
We invite you to join us, alongside the team at Hotel Gosford, for an incredible International Women’s Day 2023.
Tickets will sell out fast so get yours now!
B R U N C H
Cafe Mocha
Shop 1/103 Bateau Bay Rd, Bateau Bay
@cafemochabateaubay
A fresh new look for a Bateau Bay favourite, whose menu is a happy kind of torture trying to decide what to get!
How many times can you eat at one cafe in a year before it becomes too much? ... Asking for a friend.
The menu here is like poetry for the belly Signature dishes include breakfast gnocchi, truffle bruschetta and a dragonfruit smoothie bowl You will want it all, and then you'll want to return for lunch. This menu is seriously something else.
You know it’s good coffee when you instantly go on the hunt to learn who is behind the beans. Not to mention the smoothies and fresh juices - your summer dreams are answered.
Their recent refurb sees some cosy little booths added to their fresh and welcoming interior section. Outside they have two high-seat tables, perfect if you have your furry friend in tow! Conveniently located near the beach on the east side of Bateau Bay, it is the perfect option for those planning on spending the day at the beach. Also positioned close to the Crackneck end of the Coast Walking Track, you can grab your takeaway treats for the perfect picnic breakfast, brunch or lunch.
Suitable for: Friends
Rating: Location, deliciously fresh, beachie. Kids
Images supplied by Cafe Mocha Bateau Bay
HU N C
LBanana Blossom
2/18 Church St, Terrigal NSW 2260
(02) 9981 2654
@bananablossom salads
There’s been a beach takeover of a whole new kind at Terrigal - the ‘little green box’ and salad sensation Banana Blossom.
Salads have received a bad wrap for way to long according to the team at Banana Blossom. So they've made it their mission being to banish that stereotype and create Asianinspired salads packed with flavour using local, fresh ingredients that are simply put delicious! Their selection includes more than 16 salads to choose from as well as rice bowls and rice paper rolls. There is a delectably enticing array of vegan, vegetarian, halal and also gluten-free options, all found under the one roof.
The friendly faces of owners Tegan and Mitch welcome you into the open airy salad bar for alfresco dining just minutes from the beach.
Buyer beware! These salads are not only jam-packed with goodness and greatness they are totally addictive and most certainly have you coming back for more.
Rating: Healthy, happy, delishness in a box
Suitable for:
of good, he world. ucate and the how easy to
Self-proclaimed Ferd (Food-Nerd), Meg van Genderen of The Family Nutritionist loves nothing more than enjoying food with her family, friends and loved ones
She gave Coasties an insight into one of her family's mid-week favourites and all time crowd pleaser and we cannot wait to give it a whirl
Serves 4 - 6
Ingredients
½ cup raw cashews (soaked overnight fully in hot water and drained)
1 ½ cups of water
1 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves
Handful of sage
¼ cup to ½ cup roasted pumpkin puree (depends on water content of pumpkin)
Salt and pepper
4 servings of cooked pasta (preferably linguine or wide egg pasta, cook to instructions)
Drain the cashews and add to a blender with water until smooth and creamy
In med-high pan, melt butter, then add chopped garlic and sage and cook until garlic pops and sage curls
Turn down heat to med and add the pumpkin, cashew cream, salt & pepper and stir to combine
Let the sauce reduce on the heat for a few minutes, until it appears creamy in consistency
Add your cooked pasta and stir through Serve with a baby spinach, pear, parmesan & olive oil dressed salad
@the
Eddie de Souza knows precisely how to give the people, what the people want Step inside Bar Botanica's latest offering. S A L J A R M A I
Eddie de Souza knows what he’s talking about. Bondi born and bred, cocktail aficionado and protégé of Justin Hemmes, he has his sights set on the Central Coast.
De Souza’s new venture, Bar Botanica, set on the grounds of the nostalgic Fragrant Gardens, is his love letter to a community which he now calls home. Married to a Coastie, he has watched the rising cultural tide over the past few years.
“The Central Coast is blossoming,” said De Souza. Blossoming indeed. Bar Botanica has had several previous lives; Once a lavender scented nursery, then a gelato and cake offering. Now, De Souza’s hospitality pedigree has shaped the space to its full potential.
Former owner of Bondi’s Neighbourhood Bar and ambassador for alcohol giant Diageo, De Souza knows what people want. He saw the site as a chance to gift the community with an immersive “Gin Wonderland.” Think of the hedonistic mashup of Gatsby falling down the rabbit hole and you have Bar Botanica.
Maintaining a respectful nod to its past, arrival to Bar Botanica is heralded by the original Fragrant Garden gates. Sprays of colourful flowers and thriving crops line the brick pathway. Set amongst the garden is the enormous, gleaming Everlasting Martini fountain, the first tip-off that Bar Botanica is all about decadence.
There is much to indulge in. De Souza’s vision is for people to build a relationship with the space and become part of the Botanica family.
“We hope that people come and feel like they can stay for hours.” Bar Botanica offers experiences which creates synergy with Philip Moore’s neighbouring Distillery Botanica.
Patrons are invited to indulge in long brunches and lunches which feature fare
from local makers. Cheese and fruit boards, charcuterie platters, salad, locally made Shhmoakesys Gourmet Pies and toasties; there is something for everyone. Not a “carrot cake café”, Botanica products are crafted with ingredients from the gardens and the distillery itself.
Currently, weekend Gin and Jazz sessions
from 2pm create the perfect ambience to enjoy lazy afternoons in the garden. Also on the menu are premium cocktails and delectable desserts infused with Distillery Botanica gin or the famous Mr Black Espresso. Notably, one of Botanica’s hero products, Mr Black, was just touted by Hugh Jackman as his go-to ingredient for espresso martinis.
Gin enthusiasts can take advantage of the juggernaut success of local, Philip Moore. Winner of the Gold at the International Wine and Spirits Competition, Moore has also just received the honour of being the first Australian distiller inducted into the Gin Magazine Hall of Fame.
Distillery Botanica is offering patrons the unique opportunity to peek behind the curtain and book interactive experiences such as immersive gin tasting and masterclasses
Relaunching Bar Botanica as a premium event space is one of the fundamental objectives of De Souza. As the sixth venue that he has independently helmed, the opportunity to offer the Coast such a wondrous setting to host events makes Bar Botanica one of his most exciting projects. Weddings, birthday parties, hens events, anniversaries and more, De Souza is throwing open the doors of the Coast’s most iconic mud brick building
Sitting at Bar Botanica, sipping on a gin, watching the bees busy themselves in the garden, it’s easy to imagine that you are in the hinterlands of Byron Bay. Or in the famed Grounds of Alexandria. But, instead, you are here, on the Central Coast. Eddie De Souza has gifted us the key to a “Gin Wonderland” in our own backyard.
All you need to do is unlock it.
Gone are the days of a women's place being in the kitchen. Get inspired by the boss ladies of Central Coast business.
Meet Kate Umina-based SEO "Google taming" guru, copywriting coach, speaker, author and podcaster. We ask is there anything this award-winning digital marketing entrepreneur can't do?
What advice would give to your younger self or any aspiring entrepreneurs?
It’s a tad trite but it would definitely be not to waste time comparing yourself to others. Oh the endless hours I’ve lost falling down the rabbit hole of comparison. And every second I’ve spent admiring someone else’s (largely fake) successes is a second I’m not spending working in my own business.
What motivates you?
This has changed over the years At first when my son was born, I was driven by a need for time and flexibility. Then it became all about financial gain and creating security for myself and my family. After that I wandered in ego land, feeding my slightly low self-esteem by speaking at events and being ‘famous’.
These days I really am just motivated by having a good day. Doing some solid work, helping people where I can, staying mentally and physically well, working on my relationships. It’s not a big sexy ‘why’ but it serves me.
I may not be the cutest business owner, or the smartest, and I may not have the whitest toothy grin, or a huge following, but no amount of following others is going to change that. So, accept my enoughness would be my advice – how very woo woo!
What is your favourite Coastie haunt?
There’s nowhere finer than Umina. It may not be up there on the list of lala suburbs, but we have an awesome Woolies, Coles, Bunnings and Aldi (the four essentials of life).
Love ProJuice for coffee, Margarita Daze for a night out, great massages at Sabai Sabai, and the best book shop on the Coast, The Bookshop Umina. And of course, the beach of dreams, I have to pinch myself that I live here, it’s a far cry from miserable Reading England where I grew up! MEL
Before WFH was a thing, this coworking queen had visions for a better way to work. With aspirations of prioritising mental health at work Mel started the Foundry Cowork Erina and soon after added Gosford.
What are you passionate about?
People. I love meeting people, helping people, collaborating with people and connecting people.
The Foundry serves this passion well.
Advice you'd give to your younger self?
Don’t listen to the naysayers! There were so many voices telling me I wouldn’t succeed going out on my own, it really affected my self-confidence.
What are you most proud of?
It’s taken a long time to get here, but I’m finally proud of my professional achievements. I’ve always sought validation from others, but have realised that validating myself is enough.
What is your favourite Coastie haunt?
We truly are so spoilt for choice on the Coast now, it’s great!
But I’d probably have to say my all time fave is Hotel Gosford – consistently great food and cocktails for date nights and perfect for a night out I love Friday nights with karaoke out the front / DJ out the back and open into the early hours. They've got it all.
@blossommedia
At just 24, "ambitious" has to be Chelsea's middle name Her biz Blossom Media helps brands bloom and turn $1000 into $1,000,000 through a strategic approach to social media.
What advice would give to your younger self or any aspiring entrepreneurs?
Always keep learning!
The business and online world change so often, you need to be on top of things to be able to keep up and innovate.
What is your favourite Coastie haunt?
As a Wamberal local, I spend most of my weekends in Terrigal so I love The Joker and Thief for cocktails and the live music!
My favourite restaurant on the Coast is Fedele’s in East Gosford – the BEST Italian food
What are you passionate about?
My biggest passion is helping small business owners become more confident on social media AND actually see results from their efforts.
It’s such a sore point for so many people, so when I can teach them something that makes their lives easier and their businesses more successful – it lights me up!
What are you most proud of in both your personal and professional lives?
Having the determination to start my business at 20 years old. It’s not something most people can say they’ve done, and it was a huge risk and learning opportunity for me
Not only has she shared the stage with some of the biggest artists in the country, Kelly Griffith (known professionally as Elaskia) has seen her original song 'Calling Out My Name' be featured on Netflix series Dynasty.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
Without a doubt Stevie Nicks. She is such an incredible songwriter and is responsible for creating so many of the songs that have influenced me growing up as well as my own songwriting. There are so many more obvious things to love about her but for me it’s her relationship with her songs and the way she connects to the stories she writes that is so inspiring. You can really tell that she just puts herself right back in the moment they were written when she performs them. Watching her do that is just so incredible and it’s the same feeling I get when I perform my own music.
What are you passionate about?
I’m one of the lucky people that can say my job also happens to be my biggest passion.
When I write songs I take experiencess and transform them into something meaningful for other people. The best part is I also g to relive those stories and experiences over again each time I perform them live.
With a vision to treat brands more like humans than just numbers Content Copywriting was founded by Avoca local Sarah They now work with some of the biggest brands in the country.
What’s the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
It’s so important to be authentic to yourself I think when you can create something that you are really passionate about and believe in, other people can feel and sense that too. That’s what really connects you to other people, not trying to create something you think people will like but your heart isn’t in.
What are you passionate about?
I’ve come to settle on this one only recently, thanks to my ADHD. I’m always doing a lot of different things. In gaining a better understanding of how my brain works over the past year, I’ve realised my biggest passion is change.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My parents – despite never identifying as such, they’ve both been lifelong entrepreneurs and creators. My dad is a commercial photographer and my mum is a sculpturist, paper artist, florist and nurse. They both also care deeply about the world and its people. They’ve both taught me so much about how to be in the world, how to overcome setbacks and how to lead a life of purpose.
What’s the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Keep going – even when it gets tough, keep pushing forward. There will be so many times that you want to give up, but the challenges are only going to make you into more of the leader you want to be.
Writing from the heart feels like home for Rose the writer, editor and teacher behind HeartWriting on a mission to help others build a life of creative bliss.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My mother, who has never let a challenge get in the way of her goals. We're very different people, but she has taught me to be an incredibly strong person, and I will never forget the lessons she has taught me about standing up for myself as a woman in a patriarchal world.
Pretty cool for a traditional Italian mum, hey?
What’s the best piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Stop worrying about what other people think of you, and just write all the wild things, and try to get them published a lot earlier! I was actually such a good little writer when I was young, and so full of ideas, but I let society shut me down and I went with the safe career choice before I'd even given my talents a go.
You teach people to write from the heart. How did it all start?
I always had a dream to write – I just didn't believe in myself enough After ten years as a senior school English teacher, I was burned out beyond belief I found myself booking a one way ticket to Latin America, solo.
When I got back to Australia, I knew I had to listen to my heart and get back to my writing. I've since been on a journey of reclaiming my creativity, mastering the art of and publishing my writing, becoming a magazine editor, and finally opening up my dream workshops. My biggest motivation in life is to share the joy of beautiful words with others.
Hospitality leader, industry innovator and all round powerhouse. At the helm of Meraki Group is Tara who's single-handedly brought to the Coast six of its finest eateries including Motel Mezza and Pinocchios.
What is your biggest motivation?
To enhance the Coast’s quality of dining establishments. I feel that we've been deprived of and lacked variety for too long. I feel this sense of obligation to do something about that. Well, someone has to do something - so why not me?
What advice would you give to your younger self, or aspiring entrepreneurs?
‘Great things never come from comfort zones’. Don’t sit around wishing and hoping for great things, you must go out there and get them. What ever that may be – big or small. You don’t want to wake up one day when it’s too late and wish you had done more in your life.
What is your biggest passion?
Besides creativity – TRAVEL! Travel always inspires my creative side to open up in glorious ways. The sprawling colours of street art in faraway cities, the sensual smell of spices cooking in alleyways, the rolling countryside of the Sacred Valley in Peru.
What is your favourite Coastie haunt?
Bamboo Buddha Cafe in Holgate is the most gorgeous not-so-secret treasure of the Coast.
What is your biggest passion?
Being a leader and a mentor. I love to create great environments where people can grow and learn and create a pathway for a successful career in hospitality Our industry has been treated poorly over the years, and I am passionate about changing this and people's perspective.
If we don’t do this, we won’t have any passionate, career focused people left to operate our venues – or continue to grow the hospitality industry on the Central Coast.
Bindi and Minka of @salty tails and their hoomans recently had a family shoot. Naturally they enlisted the best in the business Amanda of @shoot the pooch
Those of us with pets know how difficult it can be to get the perfect photo. And, if you include the kids as well, then you (normally) have a recipe for disaster! That is unless you work with Amanda from Shoot the Pooch. She specialises in this exact area. She's mastered the art of working with children AND their pets. If we promise you anything, Amanda is more than capable of wrangling all members of the family to nail that candid shot... and better yet, in a way where everyone is comfortable.
Amanda's love for dogs is evident in everything she does, but it particularly shines through in her photos which capture all the quirkiness that is unique to each family. We thought she summed us up pretty perfectlyshaggy beach dogs at their favourite local hangout.
"Dogs just make me smile, they make me laugh, they've got amazing personalities and they bring pure joy to the families they are a part of," Amanda told Coasties mag.
If you'd like to book a family photo shoot that includes your four legged family members, head to her website or facebook page. Photo sessions can be arranged in any local areas where you and your family frequent, and lucky for you, stunning backdrops are one thing that the Central Coast has in spades.
Plus, did we mention Coasties Card members get an added discount?
Image by Shoot the Pooch
@shoot the pooch
www.shootthepooch.com.au
Images supplied by @salty tails captured by @shoot the poochWe'd love to see you on our socials! So go on, give us a follow on Facebook and Instagram for your daily inspo of awesome things to do on the Coast. Oh, and we’ll let you in on a secret: @coastiescard is where you'll find all the best and any new deals available to card holders
Imagine being only nine years old and having already made a name for yourself in the competitive surfing scene, well, in any scene for that matter
Alanni has done just that. Coming from Shelly Beach, Alanni took up surfing young, following in her big sister, Ivy’s steps. She has since had the relentless support of Mum, Michelle, and Dad, Benji, who is often seen alongside her, pushing her into waves from a young age, regardless of the weather or the conditions.
She often competes against older and more experienced surfers but
Already charging in waves that are well over her nine-year-old head, Alanni is one to keep your eyes on
Alanni took out first place overall in the Under 10’s division at North Shelly Boardriders.
She is also ranked #2 at the State level and #2 in the Nationals. She’s turning heads, including that of one of Australia’s surfing greats, Barton Lynch who was seriously impressed by her evident style and technique in the water.
But it isn’t just Alanni's skill that’s worth the recognition. Her attitude and personality also play a major role in her success. On the beach, Alanni is known for her friendly and cheeky personality!
With her talent and drive, there is no doubt that she will be a name we remember.
We cannot wait to watch Alanni grow and flourish not only out there in the surf but in whatever path life offers to this young pocket rocket
Image supplied Image by @urbnsurf
HARGRAVES BEACH BY "LOVLEAH"
Terrigal Pacific Coastal Retreat boasts the area's only heated pool as well as spacious studio rooms with kitchenettes. Just a 5 minute stroll from the beach and the hustle and bustle of Terrigal makes us the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
WYRRABALONG COASTAL WALK
3 KM - JUST OVER AN HOUR
EASY WALK
Also known as the Coast Walking Track, this has been a favourite of ours for a long time
With three starting points, Forresters Beach, Crackneck Lookout or Bateau Bay Picnic Area, it is the perfect trail to pair with a picnic lunch and a swim at one of the glorious beaches at either end.
The trail runs within the Wyrrabalong National Park, hugging quite close to the impressive cliff overlooking the Tasman Sea. Depending on the time of year, it is the perfect vantage point to spot some whales and beautiful blooming native flowers.
The walk is easy enough, with only one big set of stairs that is sure to get the heart rate up in the middle of the track and some sandstone stairs at the Cromarty Hill end in Forresters Beach.
The beach is just down from the Bateau Bay Picnic Area, so a well-earned swim at that end is highly recommended
And if you take our advice and feel like a picnic lunch, you can either pack your own or visit one of the many cafes at either end, Di Matteos in Forresters Beach or Cafe Mocha in Bateau Bay.
Suitable for just about any age, with options for all fitness levels.
Image by @coastiescreativeWe are absolute suckers for the blues of The Entrance, but there is so much more to this little pocket of paradise.
History would have it pinned as the place where the pelicans are fed at 3:30pm every day, but The Entrance is far more than that. Crystal blue waters, an abundance of eateries, watering holes and complete with a kids water park, paradise awaits you in this sea and lakeside location.
Recently playing host to some of the hottest events of 2022, Memorial Park was the home of the hugely successful Rolling Sets Festival, Light Up the Lake during the Lakes Festival, Creative Spaces (which showcased the work of local artists and creators) and let's not forget the Coast's most epic New Years Eve event, by Central Coast Council.
There is so much for everyone in this little pocket of the Central Coast and we are going to share some of our favourite spots.
For the active or nature loving kind - you can cycle or walk along the endless tracks around the waterfront, spectacular vie the channel leading you up and ove bridge towards the Entrance North, or around to the beach side. You can stop swim in the ocean baths, before he back through town towards the lake
Once over the bridge, take a right and head towards Cue & Crew. These local legends have found a winning recipe with some of the most delicious slow cooked brisket burgers and an incredible spot to enjoy some coffee and breakfast in the sunshine
If you couldn’t pull yourself away from the lake side and you’re after a coffee to enjoy in the shade, or take with you as you continue with your stroll around the streets, you really need to drop by Albie’s Coffee Bar. Offering specialty coffee with a perfectly dosed side of friendly and warm customer service, the toasted sandwiches and pastries are just the epic icing on the cake.
On your way back towards the town centre, you can stop by the waterfront park and water play scene. Kids paradise! The Ferris wheel is in Memorial Park and always a hit.
Image by @albiescoffeebar
It’s a telling sign when money starts getting spent on venues and we have seen that a lot throughout our region lately. In fact, the Entrance has undergone a pretty incredible facelift recently, with two of its biggest venues being completely refurbished.
It’s hard to decide where to enjoy that afternoon sundowner with both The Lakes Hotel & The Entrance Social Club creating the perfect setting for exactly that. Both boasting a tantalizing cocktail list and equally as impressive menu, you can’t go wrong.
And if you happen to time your visit on the right day, The Entrance Boat Shed deck will be screaming your name. Freshly shucked oysters and live music as the sun goes down. Be sure to book. Hosted by our friends at The Entrance Lake House
YOUR LOCAL STAYCATION GUIDE
AZURE BLUE BAY
4 BED 3 BATH SLEEPS TEN FROM $1020 PER NIGHT
PRIVATE BEACH ACCESS
PET FRIENDLY
There's something really special about Blue Bay and it doesn't get much better than being beachfront with your own private beach access.
Featuring a stunning open-planned dining and lounge area, opening up onto a grassed outdoor area. Enjoy a barbecue in the outdoor dining area.
Stay entertained with a table tennis table for when you've had enough of the crystal clear ocean.
An easy walk to The Blue Bay Store for a coffee fix.
Images from @centralcoaststays
Hostofaholidayhome?
VisitingtheCentralCoastfora holiday?
Friendsorfamilyvisitingwithyoung children?
ThinkAirbnb-butforbabyequipment.
AtBabyQuipwehelpfamiliestravellight.
Werent,deliverandsetupequipmentso thatfamiliesarenotwithoutandcan focusonenjoyingastress-freeholiday.
Rentalitemsincludeprams,cots,car seats,baths,toys,highchairsandmore.
With our sole purpose, here at Coasties, being to help you support local we make it our mission to bring you all the newest and soon to be new openings on the Coast
Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine has landed in Davistown to rave reviews. With their nightly service regularly booking out, this one is not to be missed
It's always hard to pick when everything on the menu is sensational but we'd have to say we have our eyes on the Jawaneh wings, the labneh dip and the BBQ mix plate. Oh, and maybe the cheese knafeh too!
It's been a year since the effortlessly chic salon Something By Grace opened its doors within the Quarters at Forresters Beach. As a remarkable success within the industry, Grace books out weeks in advance. If you’ve been lucky enough to catch a last minute appointment you'll know they’re hot property. So hot that Something by Grace 2.0 has been officially locked into a second location due to open mid 2023.
The hair Goddesses have answered our prayers!
Taking up residence in a prime waterfront alfresco dining location is newcomer Tallows. The menu is small but oh-so-delish. The overall focus is seafood, however, they'll flow with the seasons to ensure to freshest and best produce hits your plate every time.
Overlooking Hardys Bay the view alone is a reason to visit, not to mention friendly service too.
Launching for the first time in mid-Feb at a location in Norah Head, this smokey take on their delicious fare is sure to be a winner. Check their Insta for more details.
Over a year in the making, the DA has finally been approved on this bad boy The perfect addition to the popular Chapman Building, bringing a cool air of relaxation and a vibe. Soft lighting, chill music, private booths, tasty share options and a complete drink menu.
Hang with mates, get romantic or sit at the bar and chat with the owner and his bar tending prodigy sons, a proper family-owned establishment
It's these legends we have to thank for introducing the Coast to Japandi - the Japanese cross Scandi home style perfectly suited to our Central Coast way of life.
It's not just homewares here, you can also grab a coffee and delish bite!
Cafe, restaurant and fully licensed bar located in the Tuggerah Business Park.
The owners have some great plans for this space. They had a soft opening in February and should be up and ready by March. Expect live music and all the vibe of a local pub.
We love a good Coastie success story. Powerhouse Alysha not only opened hersecondcafefurtherupnorthonthe shores of Lake Mac, but at the same timeupgradedthecoffeecartoftheOG BlackFinn Espresso in Toukley. Talk aboutkickinggoals.
Herbrewsareexactlywhatyouneedto kickstart your day and the space: adornedwithartbypastCoastiescover muralistAngeElderofThisIsMyHappy Place.
Check out these exclusive savings for Coasties Card Holders
O'Neill Girls Wetsuit CCH $144, Slimes Boardstore (@slimesboardstore)
Clay Mask Trio, CCH $43.20, In The Buff Body Stuff (inthebuffbodystuff.myshopify.com)
Banbi Sofia Blonde Tort, CCH $71.95, Miki Finn (mikifinn.com.au)
Crystal Everlasting Flower Wand, CCH $31.50, Ignited Soul (ignitedsoul.com.au)
Amelie Dress (various colours), CCH $242.95, Kloth Long Jetty (@kloth longjetty)
Coastal White Jar Coconut, CCH $25.15, Lomani & Co (lomaniandco.com.au)
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Erina Fair is at it again, this time bringing the Easter holiday fun.
They will have a roaming Easter Bunny hopping through the centre from 10am - 2pm on the 6th, 8th and 9th of April, giving out Cadbury Easter eggs to kids and families lucky enough to spot him. If you can't find him, be sure to ask one of the friendly Erina Fair team who will help you track him down.
Bunny will also visit the Cinema Join the Easter Bunny for a special screening of an easter themed movie at Hoyts Erina!
Tickets will be live on erinafair.com.au in March and will include free treats, such as popcorn, a drink and easter chocolate. You can meet the Bunny and enjoy a movie with him.
During the School Holidays, Golden Ridge Baby Animal Farm will be set up in the centre for seven days.
Running between 10am - 2pm daily from 17th – 23rd April in the Centre Court. You can meet and feed baby animals, including Chicks, Bunnies, Lambs, Goats, Ducklings and Hens.
Bookings for this are not required, food bags will be given out for free to all children visiting (while stocks last)
The fun doesn't stop there at Erina Fair
Aside from these additional holiday activities, Erina Fair has regular attractions to keep kids and families entertained which include ice skating at Erina Ice Arena, immersing yourself into a new world at Central Coast Virtual Reality and winning prizes at Intencity!
It's a sauna but... different. We take a peak inside Swellta, Long Jetty. The new infrared saunas, offering incredible health benefits.
From the moment you enter Swellta you instantly start to feel relaxed. Owners Dani and Shane have created little oasis of calm in the heart of Long Jetty Situated on the main drag it feels like you've entered another world A world where wellness is priority.
With the multitude of proven health benefits, it's no wonder that saunas are a way of life for those taking up residence over in Scandinavia. But, where regular saunas use heat to warm the air around you, an infrared sauna uses infrared light to heat your body directly. So, if you've tried a sauna in the past and felt a little overwhelmed by the heat then this is the answer for you.
During a session at Swellta you'll receive a healthy, detoxing and yet relaxing sweat.
Using medical grade chromotherapy infrared saunas give you a whole-body thermotherapy experience which leaves you feeling invigorated and looking great Inducing the body’s natural healing ability they can help with muscle recovery, increasing physical performance, as well as having a calming effect on the mind.
Life's busy! Something the team at Swellta know that all to well as they juggle raising a family and working full time. Coupled with Shane's long time love of saunas we are now lucky to have this haven for all things health right on our Coasties doorstep.
HydraFacial is a medical-grade four-step treatment to clear out your pores and hydrate your skin. Anti-ageing serums tailored to the specific needs of patients are infused into the pores using a Vortextechnology and patented tips.
Suitable for all skin types and ages. Helps maintain a healthy baseline, but also tackles common skin concerns like ageing, dehydration, acne, pigmentation or a compromised barrier. Not to mention loved by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, Kim K, Lily Collins and our very own Miranda Kerr.
A multi-step, non invasive procedure. It provides immediate results and leaves your skin looking soft, smooth, hydrated and glowing. The treatment is performed using a patented technology to deeply cleanse, exfoliate and infuse the skin with hyaluronic acid for hydration, peptides for anti-ageing benefits and antioxidants for protection.
HydraFacial is a no pain all gain skin health treatment.
Absolutely! After the treatment you can see what gets removed from your skin via a little jar. This is the deepest cleanse you can possibly get for your skin, Immediately after you have an instant HydraFacial glow. With no downtime it's an amazing skin treatment before a big event.
Nikki enjoyed a HydraFacial with Maria at Sage Aesthetics & Co in Budgewoi
Dedicating her life to supporting local women overcome anxiety, PTSD, overwhelm and stress via her coaching biz Hinterland mumma of two, Sascha Jones shares her favourites.
Living up to its name The Hub of Mangrove Mountain really has become the hub of the area. The Mountain Brekkie Roll is my fave, but you’ll also find the BEST local burgers, hot chips, coffee, to-die-for homemade cakes and gelato,
Yet an immersive farm-to-plate experience at The Sitting Duck The Springs, with consistently great food for the whole family. Relaxed Bistro style vibe, it's been our local date night go-to since our boys were little. We also love The Duck Inn there; its the perfect place to sit with your fave cocktail or glass of wine and watch the sunset over the golf course Pure magic
Our go-to for fresh fruit and veg at reasonable prices is Sciberras Fresh. A local family business that started years ago as a small roadside stall and is now a thriving produce store.
A trip to the Hinterland is not complete without visiting the landmark that is Jerry’s Gourmet Kitchen, Cafe and Juice Bar. A fave pit stop for weekend bikers for coffee, petrol and we love the great fresh juice.
Don't miss a tour at Grace Springs Farm in Kulnura, the small family-run farm uses regenerative farming methods. Our boys loved learning about where their food comes from.
We love local legend, youth mentor, bush survivalist and environmentalist Jake Cassar Bushcraft who holds workshops around the Hinterland, educating people on how to survive in the bush!
Stay and play at Ironbark Ranch bush retreat. The perfect backdrop for a couple of nights camping, to get away from it all and chill out amongst the natural bush backdrop.
The Emerald Pools in Popran National Park are a hidden gem. A 45-minute walk there and back, starting at the end of Ironbark Road. Crystal green clear water amidst a natural wild bush setting.
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