C’MON, TAKE ME. I’M FREE!

EXLPORE THE CENTRAL COAST ARTS TRAIL GET LOCAL, HEALTHY AND CONVENIENT MEALS TO YOUR DOOR I N S I D E IT’S THE WINTER OF WOY WOY





Welcome to winter!
C’MON, TAKE ME. I’M FREE!
EXLPORE THE CENTRAL COAST ARTS TRAIL GET LOCAL, HEALTHY AND CONVENIENT MEALS TO YOUR DOOR I N S I D E IT’S THE WINTER OF WOY WOY
Welcome to winter!
Yep, you read that right Winter It’s already June.
2024 has certainly been a year of growth and change, and we are so excited about what is in store for our future.
Speaking of future... check out our ‘What’s On’ section if you need some fresh ideas to fill your winter calendar. Plenty of cool events.
Our Coasties Card app is also taking shape and will be ready to launch later this year. We cannot wait to share it with you, our amazing community.
For the second time, we will participate in the Coast Shelter Sleepout event held at Industree Group Stadium in August. If you’re unfamiliar with Coast Shelter's work, we urge you to check them out. If you’d like to sponsor #teamcoastiesmag as we sleep in the cold for an evening to help raise money and awareness for homelessness in our region, our QR code is below!
We know times are tough, so any amount towards this worthy cause would be greatly appreciated. There’s also still time to register if you would like to join this great initiative
For now, let’s enjoy these winter months. Take a moment to enjoy time with your loved ones, choose kindness and stay warm.
Big love, Tash + Nikki x
From the streams to the sea the Central Coast waterways are waiting to be explored.
The Central Coast offers superb natural beauty alongside a great sense of freedom, space, and connection to the land.
From the beaches, waterways, ridges, estuaries, lakes, and valley floors to our parks, forests, reserves and natural bushland – locals and guests are all shaped by our unique natural environment.
We encourage our community and our guests to tread lightly and go slow on the NSW Central Coast.
Discover our waterways and coastlines
‘Head for the Hills’ by the incredibly talented @matmacready
A play on getting outside in the winter months, Mat has created a work that is an abstract take on the coast's natural offerings. With subtle face silhouettes in some of the mountains lending to the clever name... as well as a bottle and a glass of red
>> HOME AWAY FROM HOME, KOMUNITI IS CALLING
>> BATEAU’S “LITTLE BIT OF FANCY” FISH AND CHIPS TAKEAWAY YOU NEED TO TRY
>> BUY ART FROM LOCAL ARTISTS ALONG THE CENTRAL COAST’S ARTS TRAIL
>> BESPOKE YET AFFORDABLE? YES FOLKS! AT A TO ZEN IN TOUKLEY
>> WALKS AND WATERWAYS OF WOY WOY THAT WILL WOW YOU
>> LET US INTRODUCE YOU TO KILLCARE’S STUNNING BIMBIMBIE LODGE
>> 14 YEAR OLD KYAH CHALMERS FROM LAKES GRAMMAR MAKES A SPLASH
>> MAKE A MEMORY WITH PINO AND PICASSO ERINA
>> HEALTHY, CONVENIENT EATING IN THIS WINTER
>> DIVORCE, BUT DONE DIFFERENTLY. UNCOUPLE WITH LAURA DIAZ
Our sole purpose at Coasties Mag is to #supportlocal. That extends to local charities and causes close to our hearts, as well as caring for our planet. So far, with the print run of each issue of our little mag, we have proudly planted 3,000 trees and raised and donated more than $4,200 collectively to the below causes.
Issue 16 | Winter '24
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.
Harvest Festival
Saturday, June 8 - Sunday, June 9
Multiple Event Hub Locations
With more than 30 event hubs throughout the Hinterland region, the Harvest Festival is a weekend full of entertainment fit for everyone. With everything from farm gate experiences, pick your own experiences, food offerings, tours, dancing and more, you are sure to find plenty to fill up your weekend. Check the Love Central Coast website for all the details.
Glenworth Grazing Festival
Saturday, June 8 - Sunday, June 9*
Glenworth Valley
A favourite event for the Coasties team. What’s not to love? Vibe-inducing music, incredible food, great wine. Tickets will sell fast, so don’t miss out.
*date correction from the last issue
Reconciliation Week
May 27 - June 3
Central Coast
Detailscorrectat timeofprint! uDon'tforgettotag s@coastiesmag
Bull Throttle
Saturday, June 8
The Entertainment Grounds Gosford
This adrenaline-fuelled extravaganza combines the raw power of top bulls and fearless cowboys with a specialised Freestyle Motocross (FMX) production featuring some of the world’s best FMX riders.
Bambinos
Sunday, June 9
East Coast Beverages, Kulnura Dogs are welcome at Bambino’s on the Farm for a day of relaxation in the Central Coast Hinterland! Bring your picnic blankets and chairs for a cozy setup amidst the scenic orchards, enjoy tractor trailer tours, pick your own oranges, indulge in citrus treats, sip on coffee, groove to live music, and play lawn games.
The National Reconciliation Week theme this year, ‘Now More than Ever,’ it is a reminder that we must band together as a nation and not back down on the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people. Various events are taking place across the Coast.
Bay to Bay Running Festival
Sunday, June 16
Starts from Woy Woy or Gosford
A favourite among the actives in our Coast community, this event never disappoints. Four event options, suitable for ages 7 years+ and of all fitness levels. Registrations still open for all events besides the half marathon.
5 Lands Walk
Saturday, Jun
Darkinjung Co
A 10km route co e c g o Macmasters Surf Club and heading north, ending at Terrigal. A free shuttle bus from Busaways runs throughout the day to get you to Terrigal if needed. This event is all about ‘Connecting People to People and People to Place’.
NRL + NRLW Fixtures
Industree Group Stadium, Gosford
Saturday, June 22 Roosters v Bulldogs
Saturday, July 20 Rabbitohs v Tigers
Saturday, August 10 Roosters v Tigers (Women)
Sunday, September 15 Roosters v Cowboys (Women)
Rainbow Rave
Friday, June 28
Oasis Youth Services 15 Hely Street, Wyong
LGBTQIA+ and Ally event. It's free for ages 12-17. The theme is Rainbow Neon, so feel free to dress up! All sexualities, genders, identities, and cultures are welcome at this event. You can expect music, arts, films, an inflatable club, food and drinks, support services, goody bags, DJ Barnes + a whole lot of colour!
Running into the Shadows
Saturday, July 6
Gosford RSL
Australian Fleetwood Mac Tribute show. Audiences will be treated to all the hit songs set to a dramatic background of moody lighting and outstanding effects. Strictly 18+, doors open at 8pm for an 8:30pm start.
Tickets $30
December
Saturday, July 20
Laycock St Community Theatre
Witness Jake Silvestro's solo performance, an ambitious exploration of loss and memory inspired by the Australian bushfires. Through a blend of physical genres and visual arts, the audience is led on a reflective journey, pondering joy amidst devastation in this cutting-edge Australian contemporary circus.
Central Coast Pregnancy, Birth & Parenting Expo
Sunday, August 11
Mingara Recreation Club
Brought to you by Central Coast Hypnobirth, this one-stop-shop offers expectant and new parents everything they need; from products to expert advice, workshops, and demonstrations to help prepare them for parenthood and beyond
Swinging Sixties Show
Friday, August 16
The Diggers, the Entrance Tickets for non-members are $55 and include a two course dinner and show. Recreating the sounds of groups like The Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Kinks and The Monkees, as well as divas including Cilla Black and Dusty Springfield.
Troy Kinne - Made Wrong
Friday, August 30
The Art House, Wyong
In his new show, Kinne humorously reveals all his flaws, particularly noticeable when dating someone younger. But if it boosts your selfesteem, he's happy to entertain! Renowned for his TV shows and viral videos, you won't want to miss his award-winning solo performance.
Two sisters, two locations. Proudly serving Gosford since 2017.
It’s no wonder a second location became a necessity for this cafe, which quickly became a Gossie favourite. Going back to their roots recently with homemade goods at the forefront, their menu offers plenty of goodness: beetroot jam, focaccia, citrus labneh, tomato relish, and gelato. In-house baked goods that will leave your mouth watering! And, we highly recommend their toasties!
A range of pies is also being launched for their winter menu with a variety of flavours all made from scratch.
Serving Legend Coffee, one of the Central Coast’s favourite roasters, the perfect accompaniment to your freshly baked goods
Open early every day except Sunday and with a late trade until 4pm to cater to the Gosford corporate scene. The team is so super friendly that you instantly feel like a longlost friend when you step inside the door
Rating: Fresh delicious, fun Kids
Suitable for: Friends
It's the kind of takeaway option every suburb wishes they had; these guys certainly know what they’re doing. Traditional until they’re not, and then they’re the perfect amount of fancy!
Qualified chefs prepare your order, with a focus on quality and the option to add a touch of something a little more fancy.
Traditional options include crispy battered fish and hand crumbed calamari. But the must-tries are Cajun prawn popcorn with house made burnt chilli aioli, Korean style fish, and the crumbed fish burger.
A simple selection of sodas and cold options. Or, sneak next door to Cafe Mocha for a great coffee or fresh smoothies.
Don’t fret if you or someone in your family is a non-seafood lover, you can opt for their Angus beef burger or Portuguese chicken burger, both mouthwateringly delicious. They also have plenty of gluten-free options. Their regular weekly specials push the limits with options including clam chowder and Cajun broil. Oh, and the house made tartare... wowee!
Rating: Prime spot, gourmet takeaway
Suitablefor:
Families Friends
It’s time to unplug, log off and press pause Immerse yourself within a home away from home. Komuniti is calling.
These days, our idea of togetherne might be to plug-in, stream, log o snap, and ‘like’… but visionary lo Adam Bailey has other ideas f connecting Coasties. His recen established Long Jetty hub, Komun is a thriving yoga studio and gard café offering a sanctuary for locals escape from the pace of the world
“This is a haven for everyone,” Ada said. “We like to think of it as a wa hug for our community.”
There’s a good chance you’ve alrea spotted Komuniti.
A kaleidoscope of colour amidst t bustle of Long Jetty’s main stre Komuniti’s murals by celebrated lo artist, Brent “Biffy” Smith captiva people’s imagination.
Biffy’s curling waves, tropical parrots and a smiling sun promise respite from the chaos of life and implore people to visit, and nourish themselves.
The garden cafe’s menu reflects Adam’s experience as a global citizen and nods to different cultures within its delicious culinary melting pot.
Luring foodies from beyond the Central Coast, showpiece offerings include the Yin and Yang pancakes: a pairing of butterscotch, bananas and candied walnuts served alongside corn fritters and pineapple salsa. Komuniti also nails vegan and glutenfree fare and offers favourites like Wagyu beef burgers, Nasi Goreng and Poke bowls
“People hunt us out for our fresh, seasonal meals, and because cater for everyone,” Adam told Coasties.
“They come for the food and then relax in the hidden garden. It’s often an unexpected escape, a place where people soon know they’re welcome.”
Komuniti certainly lives up to its moniker with a focus on providing a holistic experience, keeping people connected to themselves and each other.
The beautifully appointed yoga studio, featuring a calming and inspiring mandala by local artist Bella Rose, offers a range of daily classes taught by 14 incredible teachers. There’s something on offer for all levels of practice, including heated Vinyasa, Bikram, Flow, Yin, Pilates, and family and prenatal classes, as well as Men’s and Women’s Circles and a calendar of spiritual and wellness workshops.
The idea of a welcoming community home is at the centre of the vibrant ‘Komuniti’ that Adam has built alongside his likeminded team, with Kim in the kitchen, Mel in the cafe and Jazmyn running the studio.
“We painted the words right at our entrance: ‘Just Like Home,’ because it’s really what we are all about,” Adam said.
“This is our home and we want it to be yours as well. Everyone is welcome.”
S H O P
This is not your ordinary boutique. It’s a bespoke and unique collection of artisan products that have been hand selected to support local artists and makers. It reflects owner Triana’s personality and passions, of buying ethically and sustainably, as well as her myriad of talents and experiences including fashion design, silversmithing and holistic therapies
A to Zen echoes its name and takes you on a shopping journey as you uncover the stories behind each piece and that of its maker.
Well firstly, Coasties readers who mention this article between June 1 and August 30, 2024 receive 10% off storewide.
If that alone doesn’t tempt you, then let the recycled silk and block print cotton kimonos, or the Panama hats and Italian leather handbags do the talking. There are also soy candles, diffusers, essential oil bath soaks, hemp skincare and hand pressed gift cards. But, that is not all, A to Zen features an entire space dedicated to beautiful premium crystals and expertly crafted singing bowls
Be prepared to not leave empty handed!
THEM AT 148 Main Rd, Toukley | 4314 8964 And online at atozen.com.au @atozenaustralia
Check out these exclusive savings for Coasties Card Holders
Some food, some fun, some homewares, some self-care. Whatever you’re into, the Coast’s newest openings have something for you!
T A S H R O B E R T S O N
Feeling stuck in your training? iPerform Lab in Erina offers elite level sports science testing to optimise your performance and minimise injury risk. Founded by Aaron Sculli, a professional athletic performance coach, iPerform Lab provides personalised packages for athletes of all levels. Get in touch today to kickstart your journey to peak performance!
Your home loan is a major decision. Trust Central Coast local Alison Darling, with more than 15 years experience in mortgage broking, to guide you. Alison's mission is to align people’s finances with their values, ensuring a better future without compromise. Contact Alison for a free home loan health check and find a loan that fits your needs and values seamlessly!
Introducing Bambinos, the vibrant onsite café of Eastcoast Beverages, serving an enticing range of citrus infused delights! Factory tours run every Thursday, so you can explore the fascinating journey of their juice making process. Don't miss the chance to pick fresh fruits during the winter months! Visit them Wednesday to Saturday, 7am to 2pm See the ‘What’s On’ section for their upcoming June event.
Where you can fill your bowl with everything you need for a healthy balance. Located within the food court at Bateau Bay Square, the easy AND healthy lunch we’re always looking for.
An indoor mini golf haven has opened on the Central Coast! It features 18 colourful holes split into Club Carnival and Trickshot Alley. Families of all ages can enjoy a day out for less than $65, complete with a bar and café onsite.
** Written by Tasman Robertson (8 years old)
Perfect place for all your fish tank needs, whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a novice. Started as a hobby by owners Jag and Veronica, it's now a passion turned into a physical store. Level up your fish tank game!
At La Gioia, dive into the heart of Italian cuisine, where every dish celebrates authentic flavours with the charm of the Tuscan countryside The real-deal culinary experience.
Sisters Brittany and Amber combine their creative talents in their newly opened salon in Woy Woy, specialising in wedding up-styles and makeup From highlights to full glam makeup, they offer a range of services for your prewedding glam or any special event.
From the absolute culinary queens at the Bees Knees Eatery Follow their socials for more information on their sister company - COMING SOON!
Step into a seaside delight at this vibrant shop, where bright colours and big smiles await Deb, the owner, radiates joy and is ready to assist you in styling your space or finding the perfect gift from her extensive range of homewares and quirky pieces.
Due to open in September this year on Terrigal beachfront You can expect a marketplace and focaccia bar, serving deli sandwiches perfect for that graband-go beach bite. Amazing coffee and incredible pastries will also be on their menu, and they’ll be offering picnic baskets and a catering service. We’re looking forward to another easy and affordable lunch option in Terrigal!
The Coast is brimming with incredible artists From north to south there’s an art trail you can follow to look, see, experience and purchase.
Let’s kick off with Pete Rush (@peterushsculptor), who rose to fame during the pandemic. He became most well known for his incredible driftwood sculptures that started to pop up all across the Coast during those wild days of isolation. Pete is a man of many talents and an incredible painter: his works are on display at Moochinside, Killcare.
Based in Point Clare, you’ll find Jo Stanes’ Paint Station. From her studio she runs an art school (for kids and adults), teaches fashion illustration, and hosts paint ‘n sips and art parties. She also does her own large scale works and commissions. Her studio pops with colour and exudes pure creativity. Connect with Jo @jostanesartstation or @jostanesart.
Award-winning and proud Indigenous artist Garry Purchase runs private educational tours and workshops from his Kariong studio. His intricate work is also for sale online. It pushes the boundaries of traditional Aboriginal art by focusing on his personal journey, experiences and social issues. Reach out directly on education@garrypurchase.com.au
Staying down the southern end of the Coast, other galleries worth checking out for both exhibitions and to purchase art include the newly opened Velias Galleria in Ettalong, and our very own Gosford Regional Gallery. Winter exhibitions include Shana O’Brien’s Inner Landscapes, Karla Dickens’ Embracing Shadows and The Makers Studio’s Dress Code: Behind the Seams.
As you venture up the Coast, Terrigal is abuzz with galleries, but one of our favourites has to be Bloomfield Fine Art Gallery run by local artist Karen Bloomfield. This is a gallery with a difference; it’s warm, welcoming, and we guarantee you won’t feel awkward or out of place stepping inside. Karen’s own work is on display for purchase, as well as a showcase of high quality works from a range of local artists. Regular workshops and events are hosted from the gallery.
@bloomfieldfineartgallery
Past Coasties Mag cover artist Grant Molony has public artwork that can be spotted Coast-wide on buildings, in bars, shopping centres, hospitals, at schools and more. if you’re a lover of his work, like us, the best news is he does commissions, just reach out at @grantmolony.
Her art is as bright and bubbly as she is... say hello to Grace Agnes, currently exhibiting and in residence at the Creative Spaces Gallery Container at Toukley until the end of June. This is your opportunity to get up close and personal with her work and pick up those one-off pieces that will be sure to bring you and any space they’re found in, more joy! See more of her smiling face right here @graceagnesart.
We know that we could fill this entire mag with more of the talented artists we have on the Coast! So please, as you’re out exploring the Coastie Arts Trail or as you come across a new and fab artist make sure to tag us @coastiesmag so we can share their work far and wide.
Our cover art is by local artist and designer Mat Macready. His work explores surf culture, nature, and escapism. He plays with perception to give the viewer an opportunity to interpret his work in their own way.
Mat’s current project involves a goal of painting a mural each week under his house.
“It’s been a great way to refine my skills to paint large scales and explore new and creative techniques.”
3.
MyperfectdaystartswithcoffeeatLike MindsinAvoca,incudesaasurfandends withadrinkwithfriends.
MyfavouritethingaboutbeingaCoastieis beingsurroundedbynatureanddownto earthpeople.
5.
MyfavouritegigIeverwenttowasPhillybasedbandTheWaronDrugsin2018but, I’mnotgoingtolie,afairbitoffunwashad atfestivalsinmy20stoo!
Somethingyouwouldn'tguess/know aboutmeisthatI'maddictedtoDIY...like properlyaddicted.I'mcurrently attemptingtobuildanartstudiointhe backyard. IfIcouldhaveanysuperpower,itwouldbe somekindofcontrolovertheweather.*
*Typicalsurferanswer!
Our arts issue wouldn’t be complete without you knowing how to bring out your own inner artist.
As Picasso said, “every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
At Pinot and Picasso in Erina, manager Mel and her team make sure that everyone can access their artistic potential. They nurture your deepest artistic musings, by offering step by step guidance to creating a masterpiece. Plus, they clean up!
Offering exciting private group sessions to cater for all occasions from corporate bonding sessions, children’s (and adults!) birthdays, celebrations and retirement parties.
In addition to the guided artwork tutorial, clients are able to bring their own food and drinks and can decorate the studio to suit their occasion.
This allows enormous creative freedom where clients are not limited to catering packages.
“People love it,” Mel said. “We have had some really fun and fantastic setups.”
Popular private bookings include Hen’s Nights where personalised touches ensure that event will be remembered.
“People bring portraits of the groom which can be hilarious!” Mel told us.
Other unique group options are baby showers or gender reveals where clients personalise onesies and paint milestone cards for the anticipated arrival.
withkeynotespeaker andfacilitator
NikkiTiedemanof SlowCoachingCo
Superwoman Nikki Butterfield is at the helm of not one but two Coastie businesses; Coastal Athlesuire & Co. and The Coastal Printing Co., while also being a mum to three young’uns. In her words, “I feel like my social life mostly happens at the school pick-up!” Anyone else out there relate much?
Other than at pick-up, you’ll find Nikki’s friendly face at local Long Jetty and Terrigal Beach markets (run by Browse Events) chatting up a storm and selling her uber-comfy activewear. As a Gorokan local, you’ll also find her at haunts across the northern parts of our Coast.
We can’t go past The Lavender Goat at Charmhaven - delicious food and coffee. Perfect for those sneaky mum catch ups when you are kid-free.
Wallarah Bay Recreation Club is our go to, because, who doesn’t love a Sunday raffle? Our kids are obsessed.
For those rare nights we don't want to cook (we love cooking and a barbecue on the smoker), Nanacha Thai Restaurant in Gorokan is a favourite with the whole fam.
Norah Head Rockpool followed by a walk down past the Norah Head Lighthouse onto the beach for the kids to run about and look for sea creatures is our summer weekend go-to
When I’m not playing mum taxi and ferrying my kids to various sports we’re hanging out at Wallarah Point Peace Park. The playground is epic. We also recently checked out Sloties at Charmhaven which was brilliant fun for kids of all ages.
From cooking classes to concerts and festivals to farmers markets, find events that add colour to your calendar on the NSW Central Coast
Scan to find out what is on or visit:
Ever heard of someone taking the phrase, "diving into something new" quite literally? Meet Kyah Chalmers and learn about her journey from gymnastics to diving.
Kyah’s launch into the world of competitive diving started with a twist of fate. Hearing whispers of diving trials through the corridors at Gymnastics NSW, she decided to take the plunge in November 2019.
Coached by the esteemed Melissa Wu at the NSW Institute of Sport, Kyah’s talent bubbled to the surface, earning her a spot in the National Talent Program. Even a global pandemic couldn’t keep her out of the pool for long.
Now, Kyah spends her days gracefully soaring through the air at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre, training four days a week with PLC diving.
Her achievements are nothing short of impressive. From snagging multiple first place titles at the NSW Open & Age Championships to clinching the Year 8 Senior Sportsperson of the Year Award at Lakes Grammar and Anglican School, Kyah’s trophy cabinet is bursting at the seams.
Plunging into success: meet the diving dynamo making a splash into achievements from great height.
by @desoldesignsolutions
jitters, and eventually, make waves as a diving coach herself.
As Kyah puts it, diving isn’t just about the flips and splashes — it's about the friendships forged in the water
Through diving, she's made connections from all over Australia, proving the real treasure lies not just in gold medals, but in the bonds created along the way.
We look forward to following Kyah’s continued success in and out of the pool
E X P L O R E
BIMBIMBIE LODGE KILLCARE
3 BEDROOM (5-7 BEDS) | SLEEPS 8
PRICE FROM $800 - $1600 PER NIGHT
Introducing Bimbimbie Lodge, one of the 10 exquisite Greenhouse Retreats properties.
“The moment I walked into Bimbimbie I knew it was something special. It’s a delight to share this amazing space with our guests," GHR owner Carla Luce said.
The architecturally designed masterpiece features a curated and eclectic art collection from the owner’s travels, making Bimbimbie the perfect property to showcase in our Arts issue.
Nestled amongst the trees, there’s an abundance of birdlife (the name Bimbimbie aptly meaning ‘place of many birds’) that sing a natural soundtrack as you unwind and relax. The cedar hot tub beckons in the cooler months as the ideal place to soak under the stars. But, be warned, Bimbimbie Lodge will cast a spell on you, you’ll be so relaxed you may never want to leave!
Book a stay at any GHR and take 10% with code: ART10 before 30 Nov 2024.
thegreenhouseretreat.com
A brilliant family day out.
Much of the Central Coast hugs a stunning waterway, and Woy Woy is no exception Exploring these waterways can be done by a casual walk or, better yet, on a cruise Or, in this case, why not do both?
Board Central Coast Ferry, the 'Sorrento,' from Woy Woy Wharf on an Area History Tour that takes you back in time as you learn all about Brisbane Water's captivating past Featuring live commentary and visuals (including historical photographs and videos of working models) displayed on a large screen on board, as well as scenic stops along the way. The 3.5 hour Brisbane Water History and Heritage Cruise tour departs at 9.30am, and highlights include Woy Woy Tunnel, learning of a time when the waterways were the highways, the PSS Maitland shipwreck and more. Note: the tour requires 30 guests to depart and updates on numbers are posted on socials.
On completing your history cruise, with tummies grumbling, Woy Woy eateries will spoil you for choice Our top pick is just a five minute walk down the main road, to Young Barons to grab a house-made pasta and caffeine Their revolving menu also has a range of pastries, sandwiches and soups Treat the kids to a gelato from Milk Bar Or why not try the recently relocated The Cnr for the most epic toasties you'll get on the Coast?
Discover and explore more with our Woy Woy Neighbourhood Guide.
For those visiting on a Sunday we suggest a market lunch and of course, a spot of shopping to support locals at the Woy Woy Waterfront Markets
During winter their scheduled dates are June 9, July 14 and Aug 11, open from 9am - 2pm
Then enjoy the easy 6km Woy Woy Foreshore walk (or bike ride) loop, a flat and family-friendly shared pathway. It starts at Woy Woy Wharf and will transport you along Woy Woy’s waterside community, and finish up in Blackwall where you circle back
Don‘t forget to snap pics of your adventures, tag #lovecentralcoast and follow @lovecentralcoastnsw
When Bindi and Minka heard that the newly redone Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre was pup friendly they had to check it out.
Add this cruisy family-friendly (including the fur siblings) adventure to your winter activity list, because it’s a box ticker, especially for those with little kids (five and under).
After a picturesque drive out to Mangrove Mountain via farms and autumn leaves you’ll arrive at the third largest water supply system in NSW, which provides water to about 350,000 Coasties. So, think: impressive. Because that’s what the dam and the view is! The original visitor area was destroyed in the December 2019 fires, making way for the new and improved interactive one that opened in September 2023
Now, dogs are allowed on the lead; making it the perfect family picnic spot (just make sure you BYO dog water bowl!). The area is fully accessible, includes several barbecues, with undercover picnic tables, drinking water and toilets. There is also a cute fenced play area for the kids to burn some energy before the drive back home.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. We were lucky enough to see a couple of lace monitors and a swamp wallaby! After exploring, and enroute home, why not check out the various seasonal activities on offer at one of the many surrounding farms
BRISBANE WATER
NATIONAL PARK
2-3 HOURS RETURN
MODERATE - DIFFICULT
Once more our weekend walk veteran, Dana Chantler, is back! Sharing another of his favourite Coast walks. During the winter months, Dana and his family (wife Michelle and three boys aged four, six and nine) explore the natural beauty of our region, taking on a series of bushwalks. And, thankfully sharing them with us and you, our readers.
Dana is a renowned and awardwinning chef. You’ll find him down by the water at the Boathouse Patonga, dishing up some incredible plates over stunning views. Keep up to date with what's on the menu via his socials; @chefdanac.
D A N A C H A N T L E R I m a g e b y @ c h e f d a n a c
Now, to the walk! “Kariong Brook Falls is a great walk that starts out easy and gets a little squirrelly at the end,” Dana said
“The trail starts at Thommos Loop in Brisbane Water National Park. For the first few kilometres, it’s basically a fire trail, but there are some great views and lots of bird life.
“After a while, you’ll come to a right turn down a narrow trail that’s actually part of the Great North Walk. It gets quite steep here, so make sure you watch your step.
“You will finally come to a lovely little waterfall and a pond where, if you’re lucky, you may spot some yabbies.
Image supplied by @chefdanac
“After you’ve soaked it in long enough loop back the way you came for the walk back.”
Activate Foods in Erina makes real food easy. They create and deliver nutritious, delicious ready-made food that enables people to use time for the more important things in life.
Method:
Ingredients:
1kg white potato (peeled, 2cm diced)
1 onion (peeled, 1cm diced)
2-3 garlic cloves (peeled, crushed)
200g bacon (finely sliced)
1 leek (trim the green, wash, finely slice)
500ml chicken bone broth
Parsley, finely chopped for garnish
You’ll also need:
Oil, salt, white pepper, water, stick blender and a pot with a lid.
Things to note:
Prepare all ingredients ready to go, have everything you need within an arms reach before you start cooking.
Grab your pot, splash with olive oil and bring to temperature, add your bacon and caramelise until golden (remove one third, set aside for garnish).
Add leeks and onion, sauté until slightly golden then add the garlic, sauté for a further one to two minutes.
Add potatoes to the pot, toss together for one minute with a pinch of salt and pepper then add the chicken broth. Add water so it just covers the potatoes, reduce the temperature to a light simmer. Cook until the potatoes are soft and start to crumble when pricked with a knife. Blend the soup with a stick blender until smooth and creamy, season to your liking.
Serve in a bowl topped with a pinch of the cooked bacon and parsley.
www.activatefoods.com.au
W E L L N E S S
It may feel somewhat like a taboo subject, but to Relationships Coach Laura Diaz, helping couples to “uncouple” in a kind way, is her passion.
We caught up with Laura who shared her top tips on how to navigate the journey with mutual respect, grace and dignity. Contact her for a free consultation, check out her other programs with the QR code and embark on your path to healing, alone or together
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Stoptheblamingandshaming-cultivate compassionforselfandothers;taking radicalresponsibilityforyourcontribution issurprisinglyliberating. Soulmatetosoulhateexists,yetholdingonto hatechainsustothepast.And,hateislike drinkingpoisonyetexpectingtheother persontofallill.Forgivenessistheway forward.
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Don’tignoreyouremotionalneeds.Burying emotionsordistractingyourselfinthehope thattheywillmagicallydisappear unfortunatelydoesn’tmeantheydo. Griefis real.It’soktofeel itandindoingsoyouwill discoveryourinnerstrengthalongtheway.
Timehealsallwounds.Timealonewon’theal yourheart,it’swhatyoudowiththattime thatmatters.
AURORE HOLISTIC HEALTH
Platinum Building, 4 Ilya Avenue, Erina auroreenergeticshh.com
@auroreholistichealth
Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage is an ancient Indian massage with oils that enables somatic and physical releases as it nourishes your nervous system and brings the body back to state of sovereignty.
This safe treatment is for everyone! Anyone from babies to elders, no matter your gender can receive it.
DOES IT HURT?
Not at all! Expect stillness and peace.
The teaching behind Abhyanga is “a mother’s loving touch,” so it’s a highly nurturing massage. After your constitution pulse is checked, warm, herbal and medicinal oils to suit your needs are chosen and applied. From head to toe you’re adorned in oil and the magic of this bodywork begins.
Feedback after sessions includes feelings of transcending the physical body, a bit like floating on air and a sense of balance in the mind, body and soul.
Back in 2021 in the height of the pandemic, lockdowns and life inside our bubble, the #supportlocal movement here on the Coast was born when we launched the Coasties Card.
A deals card for Central Coast locals only, that unlocks exclusive savings in businesses across our region With a simple aim: to keep you shopping small and fuel our local economy.
sign up here sign up here
Three years on and the time has come to take the Coasties Card digital.
Coming soon is a real life Coasties Card App! Making it a truck load easier for you to #supportlocal and unlock deals at all your favourites.
With weekly wellness classes on nature’s doorstep, blending wellbeing into your workday comes easy. Join our coworking community and boost your productivity, leaving you refreshed and ready for life's other adventures.
Killcare | Gosford | Avoca