Issue 2

COASTIESMAG.COM

NOV | DEC 20

COASTIES THE LIFESTYLE MAG FOR THE CENTRAL COAST

INSIDE

, ON .

C’M ME KE !

E TA E FR I’M

COCKTAILS TO CELEBRATE THE END OF 2020 THE PRETTIEST PICNIC SPOTS IN OUR REGION NORAH HEAD’S POST-PANDEMIC REVIVAL IS ON

THE JOKER AND THIEF, TERRIGAL

ISSUE 2

G’DAY And just like that, the year that changed the world forever is closing. 2020 has been a cluster-catastrophe, hasn’t it?

As soon as the brutal Australian bushfires were extinguished, a global pandemic descended, and then a gloomy recession.

But out of the darkness has come hope.

Our Coast community never missed a beat when it came to helping others.

We’ve seen it with locals rallying to support Central Coast businesses by buying local whenever possible. #supportlocal is more than a trendy initiative, it has saved livelihoods. And we want you to keep shopping local in 2021.

So we've teamed up with over a hundred local businesses to launch the Coasties Card, which offers exclusive local deals for you, our readers.

We’re talking meal and drink deals at nearly 50 restaurants and bars, including The Boathouse Hotel Patonga, The Bon Pavilion, Yellowtail, Mumbo Jumbos and many more. Savings in your favourite shops like Miki Finn, Kloth and drøm. Coasties Card members get cheaper entry into our favourite attractions, like Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary. And hot deals for boutiques, beauty treatments, hairdressers, photographers, surf lessons and, well, the list goes on and on.

You can sign up at coastiescard.com.au today. But here’s the thing, it’s only available to those with a Central Coast postcode. You can think of it as a local rate. Or maybe, more aptly, mates rates. After all, it’s you who has helped keep these businesses afloat this year. You’re their best mates ever, we reckon.

But as well as inspiring you to shop small, this issue is all about celebrating. We’re at the end of 2020. We survived. We did it. So, let’s raise a glass and look forward to a fresh start in 2021.

Founder & Editor Amy

Welcome to the

COASTIES CARD #SUPPORTLOCAL

$25

Annual membership

It's you who has helped local businesses through their hardest year yet.

And now Coast businesses want to offer Coasties readers

Mates Rates Have a Central Coast postcode? You're eligible to become a Coasties Card member.

Members get exclusive deals and savings in over 100 local businesses

Cheap entry into attractions

Exclusive meal & drink deals

Fashion & beauty savings

Walkabout Wildlife Park, Aquafun

The Bon Pavilion, Yellowtail, Mumbo

drøm clothing, Miki Finn, Kloth,

Avoca, Central Coast Surf School,

Jumbos, Bar Botanica, The Sunken

Sukisu, Pistachio and Co., Meraki

The Entrance Boat Shed, ManuSup

Monkey, Link & Pin, Dart & Feather,

Hair & Beautè, Daisy's Closet, The

and the list goes on and on

The Settlers Tavern and more

Stretch Lab and more

Sign up today at

WWW.COASTIESCARD.COM.AU ONLY AVAILABLE TO THOSE WITH A CENTRAL COAST POSTCODE

INSIDE EAT

LOCAL

17

THE MOST SUPERIOR SEAFOOD ON THE COAST

40

LOCAL BUSINESSES MAKING A SUCCESS OF 2020

22

INTRODUCING: THE NEW COASTIES COCKTAIL

42

THE WOMAN LEADING A GLOBAL FASHION MOVEMENT

EXPLORE

WELLNESS

27

NORAH HEAD IS THE MUST-GO 'HOOD TO VISIT

48

YOU VOTED: THE COAST'S BEST MASSAGES ARE HERE

34

THE PRETTIEST PICNIC SPOTS IN OUR REGION

49

LUNCHTIME TEETH WHITENING: IT'S A MUST DO

CONTACT US Editor & Founder Amy Nelmes Bissett For advertising or editorial opportunities, contact us at: hello@coastiesmag.com Suite 1/220 The Entrance Rd, Erina NSW 2250 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.

LET’S GET SOCIAL

The Lakes Festival November 6 - November 15 Multiple venues Oh, the lakes of the Central Coast are beautiful on a good day. Add in a 10-day festival with over 20 free events, from live music to sports, and it just gets even better. For a full lineup, check out the website. (visitcentralcoast.com.au)

Avoca Beach Markets Twilight Edition Saturday 12 December Heazlett Park, Avoca This event runs from 5pm until 9pm, hence the whole twilight upgrade. And it’s always the best market of the year, with live music, lots of amazing stalls and a feel-good vibe. (fixxevents.com.au)

Central Coast Christmas Market Friday 18 December Gosford Showground, Gosford Running from 5pm until 9pm, there’ll be rows upon rows of market stalls, food trucks and live music at this kid-friendly event. Get set for all the Christmas feels. (amaeventmanagement.com.au)

The Christmas Fair Sunday 6 December Mount Penang Gardens and Parklands, Kariong Back for its 13th year, the annual Christmas fair at Mt Penang Gardens is always a goodie.

There’ll be a 180 stalls, live music, rides, a kids zone and a licensed bar. An event that’s so good even Santa attends.

He’s also up for photos with the kids. He’s good like that. (fixxevents.com.au)

Davistown Waterfront Market Sunday 8 November Illoura Reserve Yes, you're well versed when it comes to the Avoca and Shelly markets but finally the waterfront market in Davistown is getting into full swing. Expect live music, street food and stalls. Runs from 9am- 2pm. (createevents.net)

Gosford Waterfront Carnival December 18 - January 23 Gosford Waterfront It’s all about having some quality fun with the family at this festival, with fairground rides available for all ages and plenty of carnival-style food.

Read: burgers, more burgers and, yep, burgers. But it’s free and fun and opens every night until the end of January. Find ’em on Facebook.

PSST. Due to COVID-19, please check these events are running before you attend. And if you get social, wash those hands like it’s 2020.

9

OCEAN VIEWS

SEASONAL MENU

TUES - FRI 5:00PM TIL LATE

|

GOOD VIBES

SAT 12PM TIL MIDNIGHT

SHOP 6/90 TERRIGAL ESPLANADE, TERRIGAL

|

SUN 12PM TIL 10PM

THEJOKERANDTHIEF.COM.AU

TAE

HCNURB Kew Dining 414 The Entrance Road Erina Heights (02) 4365 6955 (kewdining.com.au)

Found next to the Ken Duncan Gallery, Kew Dining is a truly outstanding spot for breakfast, with each dish delivered with a certain pizzazz.

All images supplied by Kew Dining

Food

The Other Stuff

Kew is known for its pancakes ($16).

They’re so pretty it feels criminal to eat them. But we did and they’re wondrous, tasty creations. It’s a bit like eating cake for breakfast but this is the Christmas issue so no judgement. We also tried the wild mushrooms on sourdough ($16).

Less showy but still stellar.

Kew is always busy so it’s best to pre-book. For the mammas and papas, there are high chairs but no change tables. And make sure your phone is charged for all the #foodporn shots available.

Seriously, the food is ready for a close-up. Tag us in your socials at @coastiesmag #coastiesmag

Drinks Try the smoothies. Pretty as a picture and truly delicious. The coffee is also superb. And the tea list is as long as the weekend queues to get a balcony seat.

Rating: Dishes created with care.

Suitable for:

Dates

Friends

HCNUL Arc. Est Shop 7/18 Church St, Terrigal 0451 717 607 (arcterrigal.com.au)

It might be the newest restaurant to open in Terrigal but it's already made its stamp on the Central Coast foodie scene. Let’s step inside Arc. Est.

Food The cooking is impressive. Crispy pork belly with spinach, beetroot and walnuts ($28) is the perfect balance of crunchy, salty and zesty.

A seafood medley ($32), with tender salmon, prawn, mussel and calamari individually cooked with care.

Chocolate mousse so deep and dark you’ll keep telling yourself you’re full, but fail to put down the spoon.

Drinks The wine list champions Australian vineyards, punctuated lightly with offerings from France and Germany.

Cocktails are supreme, especially the salty-rimmed margaritas.

The Other Stuff Inside, the decor is a melting pot of luxury meets rustic, with sandstone walls, dark wood and hanging lampshades, creating what is the closest you’ll get to eating in a Mediterranean set-up for a while. This is a place for adults to play - either for long lunches or romantic dates. Leave the kids at home, for sure.

All images by Jaxson from Jxsn films

Rating: Superior on all counts.

Suitable for:

Dates

Friends

We know what it takes to bring your story to life

Lomani & Co

The Link & Pin

professional headshots quality business imagery food & drink styling

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d o o f a e S

t I t a E d n A

It’s practically un-Australian not have seafood at Christmas, right? So we hunted down the most superior seafood spots on the Coast. Let’s go...

The Boathouse Hotel Patonga. Image supplied

The Boathouse Hotel Patonga, Patonga

Boathouse Bar & Dining, Koolewong

Come for the view, stay for the incredible seafood platter. There are Sydney rock oysters, Queensland tiger prawns, salt and pepper prawns and squid, and battered fish and baked scallop. Cost? It’s $120. And it’s absolutely criminal not to enjoy with a few glasses (bottles) of champagne.

Seriously, we insist. (theboathousehotelpatonga.com.au)

This Koolewong institution’s pride and joy is its seafood. Having eaten here it’s understandable. A certain expertise is behind each dish. The kingfish sashimi with strawberry vierge is unforgettable, as is the seared scallops. Every dish, even those not collected from the deepest darkest seas, is an absolute joy. (boathousebaranddining.com.au)

Ocean Restaurant, Blue Bay Ocean Restaurant just gets it right. That blue-on-blue ocean-to-sky view is spectacular.

The ambiance of the restaurant is relaxed. And the seafood is truly outstanding. Yes, there’s a wondrous seafood platter ($159), but really, any dish here is a winner. For us, it’s the ocean trout on the lunch menu. Delicious. (oceanrestaurant.com.au)

Yellowtail, Terrigal Yellowtail is one of the finest restaurants on the Coast, offering seafood fare with a Cantonese twist. A degustation dinner costs $89 but really, we’d recommend pairing the Nelson Bay Mullaway, the South West Rocks Octopus and, well, all six courses with specially selected wine pairing for an extra $49. Worth every cent. (yellowtailrestaurant.com.au)

Oysters at Yellowtail. Image supplied

Avoca Beach Seafoods, Avoca Beach

Reef Restaurant, Terrigal

Undoubtedly the most laid-back offering on our list, Avoca Beach Seafoods is a favourite for all. In fact, it is award winning. Perhaps better known for its stellar fish and chips, don’t overlook the seafood and shellfish. There are prawns, oysters and tasty deep fried NZ mussels. Perfect with an ice cold beer.(avocabeachseafoods.com.au)

Soft shell crab in red peanut nam jim. Seared scallop with saffron beurre blanc. Snapper served on a lemon dill crab risotto. Reef Restaurant knows seafood. Fresh, vibrant and unforgettable. The views over the ocean are as divine as the food and the wine options.

Dreamy seafood setup. (reefrestaurant.com.au)

19

Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf, Woy Woy There wouldn’t be a list of top seafood spots if WWFW wasn’t on it. It’s the original. And it’s still one of the finest on the Coast.

The WWFW platter has a mix of hot and cold seafood ($95), but for us, it has to be the chilli blue swimmer crab. Or the anchovy toast. Or the ceviche. OK, everything on the menu and the wine list is exceptional. (woywoyfishermenswharf.com.au)

The Lucky Bee, Hardy’s Bay If oysters and champagne enjoyed as the sun goes down over Hardy’s Bay doesn’t scream Christmas is coming, then we don’t know what does. We’d also recommend the extravaganza that is the whole fried Szechuan salt and pepper snapper ($58). It’s all eyes on those who are brave enough to order it, but it’s worth it - the taste is unforgettable. (theluckybee.com.au)

PSST.

Top, WWFW. Bottom, the slick set up at The Lucky Bee. Images supplied

If you decide to visit any of these restaurants, why not tag us in on social?

@coastiesmag #coastiesmag

Our mission is to inspire you to support local businesses.

But we rely solely on advertising to continue printing Coasties.

So, if you do decide to visit a shop, cafÊ, or any other local business because of something you’ve seen in Coasties, please let them know!

#SUPPORTUS #SUPPORTLOCAL

t e G s ' t e L y r r Me Hey you. Yes, you.

Let’s celebrate the end of the year from hell in one of the best bars on the Coast.

The Coasties cocktail at The Joker and Thief.

Image above (and on cover) by Oak Street Images

The Joker and Thief, Terrigal

Frankie’s Rooftop, Woy Woy

We’ll admit it, we have a soft spot for The Joker and Thief. They just get it. Outstanding cocktails, delicious eats (try the cheesy polenta wedges), that million-dollar ocean view and an unrivalled atmosphere. It’s why we teamed up with them to create the Coasties cocktail, as seen on the cover. It’s on their cocktail list so go try. Stat! (thejokerandthief.com.au)

It isn’t looking like you’ll be visiting Venice anytime soon but you can head to the Venice of Australia, aka Woy Woy. And overlooking the stunning waterways is Frankie’s Rooftop. The vibe is cool, the cocktails slick and the service always spot on. Our favourite is Who Shot The Gigolo, which is spicy and sweet just like a, erm, gigolo? (frankiesrooftop.com.au)

Bar Toto, Ettalong

The Dart & Feather, Davistown

This Ettalong late-night speakeasy is like stepping back into yesteryear. The interiors are classic, with vintage leather sofas, low lighting and retro art hanging from the walls. But really, it’s all about the cocktails here. The mixologists are magicians, if magicians love mixing strong spirits, that is. Try the Bobby Boy. (bartoto.com.au)

This often forgotten spot should be on everyone’s list for the festive period. Waterfront views, chic interiors and, most importantly, a superior cocktail list. It’s packed with classics, but each is delivered with precision. Our favourite has to be the espresso martini. Truly addictive, especially during happy hour Friday. We mean, friyay. (thedartandfeather.com.au)

The Bon Pavilion, Gosford

The Bavarian, Tuggerah

For a sophisticated spot then it has to be the Bon Bar within The Bon Pavilion. If Jay Gatsby (from Great Gatsby fame) was from Gosford rather than Long Island, then he’d be drinking here. It oozes oldschool charm. Even better, they’ll whip up any cocktail you fancy.

Your imagination is the only limit. (thebonpavilion.com.au)

Are you ready for this? We’re not sure you are, but The Bavarian now does bottomless drinks, including the on-tap cocktails. We’re talking strawberry margarita, lychee paradise, appletini, and elderflower garden. Pre-book a driver for a few hours as you’ll be needing one to truly make it worthwhile. (thebavarians.com)

Motel Mezza, Wyong

The Savoy, Long Jetty

What an absolute gem this bar is. Housed inside an art deco building on the central strip of Wyong, Motel Mezza has its eye firmly on carefully created cocktails and delightful small share plates. The Axel Rose – a gin cocktail made with rose water – is exceptional, as is the sumac and chilli squid from the bar menu. (motelmezza.com.au)

Question: Are cocktails created to be drunk by the glass or the jug?

At The Savoy, the answer is by the jug at $35 a pop. There’s a few different options here but we always go for the Pretty Woman, which is vodka, lychee, grapefruit and mint. It tastes more like pure summer than working girl, which is probably for the best. (thesavoylongjetty.com.au)

COASTIES COCKTAIL

Image by Oak Street Images

Oh, it’s a beauty, isn’t? You can drink the Coasties cocktail at The Joker and Thief right now.

Or, if you fancy making one at home, here’s the recipe.

Pop the following into a cocktail shaker: 30ml Gin 30ml Peach liquor or schnapps 30ml Grapefruit juice 15ml Orange juice 15ml Cranberry juice 15ml Sugar syrup Top with soda Now shake it. Shake it real good. Pour and enjoy.

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THE NEW DAWN Like a phoenix from the ashes, Norah Head is enjoying a postpandemic rise

Norah Head rockpool. Image by Walt Loveridge

From top, The Island Cafe, General Store Norah Head, Johnny Tapas. Images supplied

But anyone who has visited Norah Head in the past few months will have felt a shift. The area is having a bit of a moment, perhaps gaining confidence from the arrival of a few new eateries, including The Island Cafe and uber-cool Johnny Tapas. Add in free outdoor yoga classes, a keen focus on healthy eats and some of the best coffee on the Coast and, with the Norah Head Lighthouse overlooking it all, this Coast spot is feeling a little bit Byron Bay to us.

Above and below, Box on the Water. Bottom right, Osteria Il Coccia. Images supplied

Since the start of time, Norah Head, the headland at the furthest reaches of the Central Coast, has been described as sleepy. A quiet beachy village that’s main attraction has been its immense lighthouse, surrounding bush walks and a beach that remains rather relaxed even during peak summer.

Left, The Island Cafe. Right, Johnny Tapas. Images supplied

Let’s Eat & Drink We have to start at The Island Cafe (69 Bungary Rd), an incredible addition to the Norah Head scene despite several pandemic setbacks.

The licensed cafe is now getting into the swing of things and since opening in May, it has become the go-to spot for breakfast in Norah Head. The coffee is exceptional. You can thank the locals for that. They were invited to a coffee tasting morning pre-opening and asked to choose which bean they wanted inhouse for the long term. The menu?

It’s packed with all your standard breakfast fare, but the eggs benedict is a winner in our eyes.

What really makes this place though is the interior. The back wall is covered in a beachy white and blue mural by a local artist. It’s incredible.

For lunch, The General Store Norah Head (8 Bush St) is a must-visit. Here you’ll find the healthiest eats in the area. We’re talking kombucha, salad bowls and raw treats. In fact, there are a lot of vegan options for those who’ve gone plant based. It’s also another brilliant spot for coffee. Our top tip is to get it to go and jump on the bushwalk to the lighthouse. The entrance to the track is just opposite the building.

And then for dinner, head to Johnny Tapas (7 Mitchell St).

Anything you order here is spot on, but here are a few favourites. Try the soft shell crab, house smoked lamb and blanched broccoli. Oh, and the beetroot arancini. And it’s all about the cocktails here, with the zesty passionfruit mojito a true winner.

It’s Time To Play There’s only one way to start the day at Norah Head and that’s with yoga on the Young Street Reserve.

It’s a free event hosted by The General Store Norah Head that runs every Saturday at 8am.

Top, Frankie Lifestyle. Image supplied. Bottom, Saturday yoga on the grassy bank

After you’ve stretched it out, why not get a good old dose of vitamin sea.

Walk down to the ocean and you’ll stumble upon a large rockpool that’s perfect for a swim. This spot is very zen first thing in the morning.

It really goes without saying, but a visit to Norah Head Lighthouse (norahheadlighthouse.com.au) should be on everyone’s itinerary. Currently, tours have been cancelled but it’s still satisfying to sit on the grass and have a good gawp at this soaring structure.

It doesn’t have to be just outdoor play, for shopping there’s Kroboca (17 Mitchell St) or Frankie Lifestyle (15 Mitchell St), two boutiques offering trendy boho threads in a super-pretty setting. There’s also Pollen Co. which is a little walk-in plant shop next to the General Store.

Perfect for indoor jungle aficionados.

Fancy turning your day trip into an overnighter? Why not book a selfcontained cabin at Norah Head Holiday Park (norahheadhp.com.au) from $150 a night? After all, it’s unlikely you’ll be in a rush to leave this perfect pocket of the Coast any time soon.

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Let’s Set Sail

In each issue we handpick a unique experience to try, and for our Christmas issue it doesn’t get any more special than boarding a 38-foot sailing yacht and heading out on the water, does it?

Sail Central Coast Hardy’s Bay Yacht Charters Killcare Public Wharf 0412 260 085 (hardysbayyachtcharters.com.au)

Once you’ve worked up a sweat, it’s back to the yacht for lunch. Best of all, it’s bring your own, so why not enjoy a champagne or two with a seafood or cheese platter. For a full day, it’s $175 per person. Suitable for all ages.

Hardy’s Bay Yacht Charters’ Sail, Bush and Lunch experience sets off from Killcare Public Wharf. You’ll glide through the waters of Broken Bay, checking in on the fur seals that sunbake near Barrenjoey Head Lighthouse before coming ashore to walk up to West Head Lookout. The views here are breathtaking.

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Prettiest Picnic Spots

Macmasters Beach. Image by Central Coast Tourism

Crackneck Point Lookout

Macmasters Beach

Want to impress someone special in your life, then head to Bateau Beach Crackneck Point Lookout for a picnic at sunrise. Watching the sun rise over Bateau Bay while enjoying a coffee, some pastries and fresh fruit is definitely better than an instant in bed. We’re talking coffee. An instant coffee.

There’s also a short scenic walk along the Coast Walking Track that either goes 2km north to Bateau Bay picnic area or south to Forresters. Either direction is pretty spectacular on a sunny day.

If paradise had to be summed up in one single picture it would be those views over Macmasters into Copacabana. Above the sea pool, next to the Barefoot Café, is a small patch of grass with a BBQ set-up and some toilets, and it’s here that’s just ideal for picnicking. Now, at lunchtime, that spot is hot property. Wait until early evening when the masses leave Macs and you’ll only have to share it with a handful of locals who come down to nab back what is rightfully theirs.

Mount Penang Gardens

Somersby Falls

There’s something special about the Mount Penang Gardens in Gosford. Despite sprawling over eight hectares, it’s designed into neat little pockets of gardens that make it ideal if you want some peaceful privacy to picnic in.

What makes this spot perfect is that it’s generally never that busy, not even on weekends. Any spot in here is great for a picnic but we like to spread out in a corner of the grassed amphitheatre, surrounded by an incredible array of Australian native plants.

If you’ve just about had a gut’s full of 2020 (it happens to the best of us) then head out to Somersby Falls. It’s not official, and we’re not doctors, but the rainforest surrounds and its tweeting inhabitants are mesmerisingly meditative and likely to be medicinal for overall wellness.

Best bit is that your picnic can be upgraded to a BBQ as there are hot plates to cook on. If possible, go in the middle of the week when the foot traffic is a lot lighter and the area is much more relaxed.

Staycation YOU

DON’T

HAVE

TO

GO

FAR

PATONGA

SLEEPS

$1200

A

TO

GET

AWAY

COTTAGE

10

NIGHT

The latest addition to The Boathouse Hotel Patonga is a four-bedroom cottage, and it’s coastal chic at its best.

There’s a garden, large deck, fire pit and plunge pool, making it the perfect spot for holidaying with friends or visiting family. And when they get a bit much (they always do, right?) it’s an easy escape to the beach across the road. Or even better, to The Boathouse bar. It accommodates 10, so that works out at about $150 per person per night. Bargain. (theboathousehotelpatonga.com.au)

Coastie Weekend Walk MT

ETTALONG

1.4KM

EASY

|

25

LOOKOUT

MINUTES

AS

OK, we’ll admit you’re not likely to work up much of a sweat on this walk. It’s a short 25 minutes in total and there’s not even much of an incline. But what it lacks in muscle burning, it makes up in larger-than-life views. We’re talking one of the best pano views on the Central Coast.

Incredible image courtesy of Dave Gosling

Now, it can get a little tricky getting on this mini bushwalk. If coming from Umina, you travel out on Patonga Drive and just after that nasty hairpin in the road is a water tank. You have to take a left off the road here, into a very small carpark next to the tank.

You can walk along an old trail which leads you to two fenced lookout platforms. One overlooks Pearl Beach. The other overlooks Umina and Ettalong. Both are truly outstanding vantage points to take in the greatness that is our Central Coast bush-to-beach vista.

The best time to visit is undoubtedly sunrise or sunset. But just a head’s up: there are no facilities and only one single picnic bench. But those views... pretty as a picture.

e g a t t o C s ' l e Ang

Step Into Paradise

Set a stone's throw away from the idyllic waters of Long Jetty and just streets away from its renowned bustling cafe scene is Angel's Cottage, a threebedroom haven that is a true home away from home.

To enquire about a stay, contact: 0406 466 623 pcardona47@gmail.com

AWARD-WINNING FISH & CHIPS OPEN EVERY DAY 10AM TILL 8PM 85 AVOCA DR, AVOCA BEACH (02) 4381 0600 WWW.AVOCABEACHSEAFOODS.COM.AU

LACOL

the bold & the brilliant Open a business this year? Who would do such a thing? Well, these six did and they are the success stories of 2020

Compass Pilates, Long Jetty

Sweet Caroline, East Gosford

So, you find the premises of your dreams, deck it out with all the kit and just as you’re about to open, COVID-19 hits. But the pandemic hardly derailed owner Robyn.

Instead, she took the time to finely tune her classes, tweak the space and Compass Pilates has thrived ever since. It’s one hell of a studio and she’s one hell of a teacher. (compasspilates.com.au)

There’s something very special about Sweet Caroline in East Gosford. Yes, the food, coffee, music and vibe all work, but it’s more than that. The place is made by its owners, Tony and Eliza Benvenuto.

The hardworking duo opened the doors in September and the cafe, which turns into a bar on a Friday and Saturday night, is always busy. (sweetcarolinecentralcoast.com.au)

RM Surfwear, Terrigal When 19-year-old Georgia Ritter lost her job as a travel agent at the start of 2020, she used her savings to start her own clothing line. She designed a whole line, created a website, learnt how to use a camera and got her friends to model her line. RM Surfwear is already a go-to brand for surfies. (rmsurfwear.com)

The Daily Dough Co., Wyong Opening just after lockdown, The Daily Dough Co., found on the grounds of the Wyong Milk Factory, has had queues wrapping around the building pretty much every day.

And there’s a good reason. These incredibly outrageous doughnuts filled with the likes of Nutella or crème brûlée - are next level. So is the coffee. Praise emoji. (dailydoughco.com)

RM Surfwear. Image supplied

Lunchbar Bakehouse, Woy Woy

Cake Art Umina, Ettalong

After losing their jobs in marketing, Litsa and Mitch Ward started to eye up the premises of an old bakery in Woy Woy. They gutted it and renovated, turning the space into a slick hole-in-the-wall coffee and sandwich shop. Since opening in August, their famous Reuben sandwich pretty much sells out every single day. It’s that good.

(1/35-39 Blackwall Rd, Woy Woy)

OK, the name might be confusing but it all started with owner Ashley Dawyer making birthday cakes at her Umina home. She opened her walk-in cupcake shop in Ettalong in July and ever since she, and her team of two, have been making and selling 150 cupcakes a day. We’ll put this plainly: they’re absolutely yum-a-licious. It’s a word.

(1/382 Ocean View Rd, Ettalong)

Movement LEADING A

From Terrigal to beyond, La Bohème Lifestyle’s allure shows no bounds

Images by Jessica Lee Witkamp

Stephanie Davies’ resume was undoubtedly impressive, working as a stylist in New York, London and Manchester. But when she moved with her young family to the Central Coast in 2016, she wondered if her exit out of a major city meant the end of her career in fashion.

“I remember someone coming up to me on my first night out in Terrigal and wondering if I was wearing fancy dress,” she laughs. “I was fresh out of living in a city and very extravagant.

But I fell in love with the Coast pretty quickly and realised I had to find some way to be creative.”

That creativity manifested itself into La Bohème Lifestyle, the luxury boho boutique found in that pretty whitewash space that perfectly punctuates a rather monotonous stretch of the Scenic Highway between Terrigal and Avoca.

Since opening its doors in 2018, La Bohème has not only become one of the most popular boutiques on the Central Coast, but it has also managed to carve out a corner in the very crowded world of click-to-buy luxury fashion. “I still pinch myself when we get orders from England, Canada and Dubai,” says Steph. “But you know, I hope it’s because people can see that La Bohème comes from a place of pure passion.”

For Steph, La Bohème is so much more than just selling women’s clothes. She sells an experience.

Scroll through Instagram and almost every influencer worth their salt will have posted a picture of themselves wearing a creation from the boutique, with the hashtag #labohemegirl.

“The La Bohème approach to everything is soft. Everything is kind. Everything is mindful. And we love to celebrate brands from small businesses and small creators,” Steph says. It’s this approach which is likely why her small team of four have stayed with her since she opened.

“I always say this, the success of La Bohème comes from my team. I’m very lucky to be surrounded by an amazing network of gorgeous humans. It has never just felt like me,” she says.

And it isn’t just a creative outlet for Steph, the mum-of-two also wants to be a strong role model to her children, Marlowe, seven, and three-year-old Zanna.

“In the school holidays Marlowe is helping out and she’s watching how it all works. I want my girls to work hard and to learn how to work in business as a woman. Being a strong role model for them is more important to me than anything else.”

La Bohème Lifestyle 1/271 Scenic Hwy, Terrigal (laboheme.shop)

H

IDDEN ERO

There has been a lot of uncertainty in 2020, but we could always count on the uplifting power of Pete Rush’s driftwood sculptures to bring us some much-needed joy

Coasties: Pete, what was your first sculpture of 2020?

C: Did you ever think they would attract such worldwide attention?

Pete: I stopped painting because no one was buying paintings, but being a creative person I was walking down the beach and I saw a bit of driftwood that looked like a horse tail. So I got some sticks and made a little horse up there in Terrigal.

P: No way did I think anything like that. I do have a sense of what gets attention and presentation but no, I definitely didn’t think it would get such attention. But it’s really down to the photographers. They have taken such incredible photos.

C: And they became such a source of joy, didn’t they?

C: How long does the average one take to create?

P: People kept commenting on the first one about how it made them happy. And it was such an amazing response. I literally thought they were taking the Mick to start with, but then I realised it was really making people happy.

P: I can make a basic driftwood horse in two hours, but typically it takes a few days. I’ve got to collect all the wood. I get inspiration from all over the place. I built an echidna because I saw one in the bush. I did a tick after being bitten by one.

All images by Zee Moo Snaps

C: Perhaps, most importantly, which has been your favourite?

C: And in 2021, will we still be seeing your creations?

P: I do have favourites. It is probably the half swan and half woman, the reflection weaver. Or the hunch and the niggling doubt, two mythical creatures being ridden by witches that are having a headbutt. That was over in Macmasters.

P: Yes, definitely. I did 25 this year and for the next three months I will be doing one a week which is going to be a lot. I don’t know where I’m going with it, but I love experimenting. And it’s really fantastic to me that people feel it’s helped during a tough year.

SSENLLEW

e g a s s a M Me

We asked you, our BRF (best readers forever), via the ’gram where to find the top massages on the Coast. This is where you chose...

NICE & SIMPLE

FIVE-STAR MASSAGE

If you’re not into being doused in lemongrass-infused oil and rhythmically rubbed down to the sound of a bamboo flute, that’s OK. We’ve got you covered. Ask for Drew at Thrive Physio. His remedial massage ($80) is effective without the fuss (often making him a big hit with the guys). We reckon he’s one of the top three masseuses on the Coast. (thrivephysio.com.au)

You like it fancy? Well, we don’t blame you. For a massage in a fivestar settings then it has to be the Five Star Day Spa over in Erina.

This is the spot for ultimate indulgence. It’s $85 for a 30 minute massage, but our advice? Level it up and go for the Simply Heaven package with a hot stone massage and facial for $260. (fivestardayspa.com.au)

IN YOUR HOME

PREGNANCY PAMPER

It’s an unspoken truth that the effects of a massage are diminished slightly by having to hike home post-treatment. So, why not bring the massage to you? There’s a few mobile masseuses on the Central Coast, but many of you pointed us to The Massage Spa. It’s $60 for a 30-minute remedial. The convenience? Priceless. (themassagespa.com.au)

Oh mamma-to-be, being pregnant during 2020 can’t have been easy. We’d recommend putting those tootsies up and having a totally relaxing pregnancy massage at The Healing Room Wamberal.

You definitely deserve it. Cost?

From $85. Get the fellow baby maker (who hasn’t had to do the hard yards) to fork out for this one.

(0419 124 956)

BEAUTY HONESTY BOX THE TREATMENT

DOES IT HURT?

Zoom Teeth Whitening

Not at all. Netflix is popped on and you just lay back. For any at-home bleach queens, you’ll know the gum burn that comes with doing it yourself. This one is pain free.

WHAT IS IT? It’s an express teeth whitening that can be done in your lunchbreak.

The actual whitening takes about an hour, but prep is a bit longer.

WHO IS IT FOR? For all those who want a longlasting Hollywood smile. The whitening effect can last up to two years, as long as you don’t hit the red wine or coffee too hard. It’s a pro approach, so lasts the distance.

DOES IT WORK? Yes! Teeth whiteness after this was amplified. You also take an athome touch-up kit to make sure those pearly whites keep their brightness for the long-term.

We had Zoom Teeth Whitening at Saratoga Dental, costing $550. (saratogadental.com.au)

s e t i r u o v a Lo cal F Mum-of-two Kristy Vardanega moved from Sydney to the Central Coast 12 months ago.

She lives in Copacabana with her husband Nathan, her three-year-old daughter Aria, five-month-old baby Sophia and their family dog, Lacey. Here are her local favourites...

Drink The Burnt Honey Bakery has awesome coffee and the best pastries I’ve found on the Coast.

For cocktails and small plates, it has to be OCEAN BAR Cantina, which has live music a few nights a week. It has a really buzzy atmosphere.

Eat The Cabana Cafe and Bar in Copa is a great spot for breakfast, lunch or a coffee. It’s family friendly and many of us mums catch up there during the week. On a nice afternoon we love to get fish and chips from Avoca Beach Seafoods and sit on the beach. It’s a family favourite with a stunning view.

Play We are lucky enough to be surrounded by wonderful parks and beaches here on the Coast.

The kids love to play at the Shaun Brinklow Park in Copa.

It’s fully fenced which is a bonus.

In the summer you can’t go past the rockpool at Copa Beach. It’s great for the little ones.

@THEJOKERANDTHIEFTERRIGAL

Issue 2 Nov | Dec Thank you to all the people that made this issue special. coastiesmag.com If you would like to be involved in future issues of Coasties contact us at: hello@coastiesmag.com @coastiesmag