Issue 4

COASTIESMAG.COM.AU

MARCH | APRIL 2021

COASTIES THE LIFESTYLE MAG FOR THE CENTRAL COAST

INSIDE

, ON .

C’M ME KE !

E TA E FR I’M

INSIDE OUR REGION’S STAR RESTAURANT THIS AVOCA BAR IS BOOKED OUT EVERY WEEKEND THE COAST TOWN CREATING OUR BIGGEST EXPORTS

THE LUCKY BEE, HARDYS BAY

ISSUE 04

G’DAY We got you with that cover, didn’t we?

This issue’s cover star is an absolutely stunning Thai peanut red curry. And like any cover star, it’s got the looks.

But trust me, there’s substance behind that aesthetic. It tastes incredible, too.

The dish is the creation of The Lucky Bee in Hardys Bay. We teamed up with the outrageously passionate duo behind the waterfront restaurant, Matty Bennett and Rupert Noffs, to create something extra special for the latest Coasties, our food issue. You can read their story on page 17.

Inside Issue 04, every page is jampacked with the most-superior eats from right across the Central Coast. And aren’t we lucky? There are just so many of them, and the scene is constantly growing.

So, grab a fork, install the trusty second stomach, and get ready to eat all the glorious food our region has to offer. Enjoy!

Founder & Editor Amy

CONTRIBUTORS OAK STREET IMAGES | DELICIA SMITH ISOBEL GOODWIN-MOORE | MATT MORGAN MATTHEW BRADLEY

INSIDE EAT

LOCAL

17

THE STORY BEHIND THE LUCKY BEE HARDYS BAY

46

OUR BRAND NEW COLUMNIST: THE MONEY MAN

23

OUR REGION’S MOST-SUPERIOR RESTAURANTS

52

THE FRESHEST OPENINGS ACROSS THE COAST

EXPLORE

WELLNESS

34

THE WINDING WYONG FOODIE TRAIL

56

THIS WOMAN WILL HELP YOU DITCH THE DIET

42

BEND, STRETCH & SIP WITH GIN YOGA AT BAR BOTANICA

57

THE #1 TREATMENT FOR GLOWY, DEWY SKIN

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

Coast Life Festival Sunday 28 March Terilbah Reserve, The Entrance North Coast Life Festival is the event of the year, let alone month. It’s a one-day celebration of all things Central Coast and, well, our community is worth celebrating, isn’t it? Running from 11am-10pm, you’ll find live music - yep, you heard us right, live - as well as workshops, market stalls, comedy, and plenty of eats. It’s going to be a goodie. (coastlifefest.com.au)

NRL: NZ Warriors vs.

Gold Coast Titans Saturday 13 March Central Coast Stadium If you’ve been itching to watch a game in the flesh, here’s your chance. See the NZ Warriors and Gold Coast Titans square off in some good old footie fun right here on the Coast. Gates open at 2pm and kick-off is at 3pm. (centralcoaststadium.com.au)

Beach Meditation Every Saturday Ocean Beach, Umina Is there a better way to start your day than meditating on the beach at sunrise? This is self-care at its finest. The class begins at 6.30am every Saturday, meeting at the front of the Umina SLSC. Best bit? It’s FREE. Namaste. (makingmeditationmainstream. com.au)

Elvis: If I Can Dream Thursday 11 March The Art House, Wyong Elvis fans, we know you’re going to love this one: World-renowned Mark Anthony, one of the best Elvis tribute artists ever, is visiting the Coast. His performance is a real showstopper. So grab your blue suede shoes and head over to The Art House for a night of fun and, let’s be real, plenty of toe-tapping singalongs. (thearthousewyong.com.au)

Trivia Tuesdays Every Tuesday, 6pm-9pm Sweet Caroline, East Gosford You won’t want to miss out on this sweet trivia night. With free entry, awesome prizes and an endless offering of burgers, beers, tacos and cocktails available, Tuesdays never looked so good. Don’t forget to flash your Coasties Card and you’ll receive 10 percent off your meal. (sweetcarolinecentralcoast.com.au)

King Cabaret Sunday 7 March Naughty Noodle, Ettalong Beach If you love a bit of drag (and who doesn’t?), this will be your jam.

Located in the heart of Ettalong, you’ll get to meet the legendary drag king Sexy Galexy and some new kings alongside. Kick off is at 7pm and we’d recommend a few cocktails pre-show. Oh, and you’ll get 10 percent off tickets when you use your Coasties Card code. (naughtynoodle.com.au, coastiescard.com.au)

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

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EAT The Lucky Bee. Oak Street Images

BRUNCH The Bon Pavilion 159 Mann St, Gosford NSW 2250 (02) 4302 1593 (thebonpavilion.com.au)

The Bon Pavilion in Gosford hosts the most fantastic, fabulous - and maybe slightly dangerous - bottomless champagne brunch on the Central Coast

Food Let’s be real, if you’re booking in for a bottomless brunch, the food menu might not be your #1 priority.

But at The Bon, it should be. There’s a consistency in the creation of those perfectly constructed dishes.

The menu rotates, but the rich baked eggs with sourdough are a true delight. And sisters, it’s wise to load up before you soak up.

All images supplied by The Bon Pavilion

The Other Stuff OK, just so we don’t get sued: please drink responsibly. You might not look out of place staggering through the streets of Gossy at 10am, but that doesn’t mean it’s right. Keep it classy. Oh, and The Bon’s bottomless brunch is available from Wednesday Saturday, from 10am-2pm.

Drinks Bottomless sparkling, wine or tap beer. This is not a drill. You’ve two hours to enjoy as much as you please for $65. You can even level up and pay the extra to enjoy an Aperol spritz to sip on your arrival.

Rating: The ultimate experience Suitable for:

Dates

Friends

Set on the site of a former nursery on the 28-acre Mount White estate sits Saddles, a stunning, luxe restaurant with an eye on fine eats, superiors sips and high-end interiors

LUNCH

Food For many, the menu might be tight.

An option of seven mains. But it’s all about quality over quantity here at Saddles, with each dish a culinary success. The menu rotates with the seasons, but a recent favourite has to be the Little Hill Farm chicken, which comes with grilled peaches and a buttermilk dressing. The flavours are refined and the presentation spot on.

Drinks The wine list leans strongly towards Australian blends. But Saddles truly wins with its cocktails. The boozy creations are delicious and pretty as a picture. Try the lavender spritz champagne, gin and lavender (obvs).

The Other Stuff Saddles Mt White 20 Ashbrookes Rd, Mount White NSW 2250 (02) 4370 1152 (saddlesmtwhite.com.au)

Book a table. That’s our biggest advice. This is a popular spot for those venturing out of Sydney, so to avoid disappointment and a pointless drive it’s best to prebook. And if you can get one, a balcony table overlooking the expansive pond (mini-lake?) is where it’s at.

All images supplied by Saddles

Rating: Outstanding in all aspects Suitable for: Dates

Friends

SIP-AND-PAINT CLASS

BY THE SEA

ROSÉ AND RENOIR

PAINT AND SIP WITH OCEAN VIEWS, LED BY CELEBRATED ARTIST SUSAN GOUMAS TO BOOK OR FIND OUT MORE, VISIT: WWW.ROSEANDRENOIR.COM.AU

FEELING

LUCKY

Birthed in Manhattan, now waterfront in Hardys Bay, The Lucky Bee’s success shows no bounds, no matter the backdrop.

Here’s the story of its creation AMY NELMES BISSETT | OAK STREET IMAGES

Top and middle, Box on the Water. Bottom, Osteria Il Coccia. Images supplied.

A pocket rocket of a restaurant. Images by Oak Street Images

It all started on a cruise ship travelling between Hull in England and Rotterdam in the Netherlands. That’s where Rupert Noffs and Matty Bennett, the duo behind The Lucky Bee in Hardys Bay, first met as they worked on-board.

Rupert had left the Bondi bubble after landing his first performance role since completing acting school. While Brit-born Matty was taking a break from culinary school to dip his toe into the entertainment industry as a DJ.

Rupert says, “He met me on my first day and asked if he could carry my suitcase in that Manchester accent.

I just fell in love with that Northern accent. And his work ethic is second to none. We met working together when we were still kids, I guess that’s why we make a great team 18 years later.”

By their own admission, the pair have never looked back. They fell in love as they sailed around Europe in 2003, before deciding to give Sydney a whirl when they got off the ship in 2004. There, Matty worked his way up through the ranks at the celebrated Longrain restaurant in Surry Hills.

Then it was a hop, skip and jump to New York where they opened The Lucky Bee in 2015, after Matty worked as the chef at leading farmto-table restaurant, The Fat Radish on New York’s Lower East Side.

Rupert had set up a shoe label and was working with a leading New York publicist and TV personality.

“I never saw [Matty],” Rupert says.

“So he joined me and we created The Lucky Bee!” Matty adds.

It was here they cemented themselves as innovators in the restaurant industry. The Manhattan eatery was celebrated for its uniqueness; in its menu, interiors and atmosphere. “The week we opened, we got the cover of The New York Times food section and Time Out, then Vogue wrote about us. After that it was definitely a hot spot,” Rupert says.

After spending seven years in the Big Apple, the pair lifted the concept and dropped it, albeit stylishly, onto the Central Coast.

Briefly in Woy Woy, before arriving waterfront at Hardys Bay. “Crap views,” smiles Rupert. “Really awful.”

Image c/o of HUNTERhunter

The pair are a dream duo. Matty’s culinary skills are, in short, refined and visionary. The dishes rotate, but there’s usually whole fried Szechuan pepper and salt snapper, twice cooked pork bao buns and, of course, that mouthwatering red peanut chicken curry (our cover star). It’s a true culinary delight.

Rupert’s eye for design and creating a space that is distinct and stylish comes from working in fashion, PR, magazines and one of the biggest charities in the country.

His grandfather is renowned humanitarian, Ted Noffs, founder of Sydney’s The Wayside Chapel.

The big question: Why swap Manhattan for Hardys Bay?

“I guess you could call it the sevenyear itch. We did what we wanted to achieve. Open a successful restaurant in the toughest city in the world. Not a lot of people can say they’ve done that.” Rupert says.

Matty also adds, “And the lifestyle in Australia is the best in the world.”

It’s no secret that The Lucky Bee has become one of the biggest drawcards for the Killcare and Hardys Bay area, and it’s booked-out every weekend. Which also extends to the restaurant’s pandemic pivot: Plan Bee, a café specialising in Vietnamese street-food and local coffee.

So, what’s next? Well, there are many exciting things in the pipeline, with a cookbook and TV concept in the works, plus charity events later in the year. And the hardworking duo hint there are even plans to open more restaurants in the region in the not too distant future. “We feel lucky,” says Rupert. “We have the support of hungry locals and of out-of-town travellers. There’s really been no looking back.”

Fancy a visit? The Lucky Bee (theluckybee.com.au) is open for dinner Wed - Sat, with Yum Cha served on Fri - Sun from 12-3pm. Plan Bee is open Thurs - Sun from 11am.

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The Wild Flower Bar & Dining. Image supplied

THE SUPERIORS

Looking for the finest of fine dining?

These Coast venues are a lesson in how to do a restaurant right ISOBEL GOODWIN-MOORE

Osteria il Coccia, Ettalong It’s no secret that Ettalong’s segway into the #1 epicurean destination on the Central Coast was cemented by the arrival of Osteria il Coccia in 2019. At its helm is renowned Italian-born chef Nicola Coccia, who creates dishes with unrivalled passion and care. The wine list is a joy, as is the atmosphere. (40/189 Ocean View Road, Ettalong)

Top: Osteria il Coccia. Image supplied. Bottom: Safran. Image supplied

The Cowrie, Terrigal For those who enjoy fine dining and stunning sea views then it has to be The Cowrie. Located high above Terrigal, this restaurant not only has panoramic ocean views, but also some of the finest seafood and fish dishes you’ll find in our region. Also, don’t leave without trying the white chocolate Rocher featuring coffee cream and white coffee anglaise. A sensation.

(109 Scenic Highway, Terrigal)

Pearls on the Beach, Pearl Beach A bit of a hidden gem, this stunning beach house-style restaurant is a must visit. The view over Pearl Beach is as stunning as the everchanging menu that focuses on using in-season produce. If you can nab the pomegranate glazed roast quail with beetroot labna, you’re in for an epicurean memory maker. (1 Tourmaline Ave, Pearl Beach)

Safran, Ettalong It’s absolutely outrageous for any true Coastie not to have visited Safran in Ettalong. Award-winning for a reason, here you’ll find the most-superior Turkish food outside of Turkey. It’s authentic but presented with a contemporary flair. Try the pistachio kofte and thank us later.

(81/189 Ocean View Rd, Ettalong)

Arc Est., Terrigal The ocean inspires Terrigal’s newest high-end eatery, Arc. Est. The oysters arrive with a stunning champagne mignon. The kingfish ceviche is an outstanding explosion of flavour. And the Vietnamese barramundi is cooked to perfection. But don’t worry, meat lovers, the slow-cooked lamb shoulder is your fix.

(Shop 7/18 Church St, Terrigal)

The Bon Pavilion. Image supplied

The Bon Pavilion, Gosford

Yellowtail, Terrigal

No Coast foodie list would be complete without Bonfire, The Bon Pavilion’s in-house restaurant. The experience here is always sophisticated. Seriously, no dish will disappoint. But for us, our goto is the orgy of mushrooms. We’re talking the fluffiest ricotta gnocchi you’ll find outside of heaven, with a smorgasbord of ’shrooms. It’s for you, fungi aficionados. (159 Mann St, Gosford)

A fine dining experience like no other, Yellowtail focuses on a blend of modern Australian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Asian influences. But what unites it is Yellowtail’s chef Scott Price’s firm eye on top-quality produce. We’re talking high-grade wagyu, the finest snapper sashimi and superior seafood, to name just a few. (Shop 3/1 Campbell Cres, Terrigal)

PSST. The Wild Flower Bar & Dining, Killcare. Image supplied

Go on, tag us in on social so we can enjoy some food porn, @coastiesmag #coastiesmag

Cecilia’s, Toowoon Bay

L’isle de France Terrigal

Found in stunning Toowoon Bay, Cecilia’s modern and sleek restaurant will have you coming back for more. With a highly sophisticated menu and wine list, Cecilia’s provides a unique dining experience with a Japanese flair.

Dishes change throughout the week, but one of the bestsellers is the yellowfin crudo, wasabi, salted plum and cucumber. We adore.

(89 Toowoon Bay Rd, Toowoon Bay)

There’s something special about L’isle de France and it isn’t just down to it being one of very few French restaurants on the Coast.

Everything from the lighting to the atmosphere, the menu and wine list, is just flawless. We highly recommend trying the Joues de Boeuf à la Bourguignonne with a glass of La Tour Travers 2018. Really, a stunning example of a restaurant all-rounder. (1 Ena St, Terrigal)

The Wild Flower Bar & Dining, Killcare

SUQ Restaurant, Wamberal

The Wild Flower Bar & Dining, located at Bells at Killcare, is undoubtedly a favourite with outof-towners. But locals, grab back what is rightly yours and book a table. From Mediterranean to Moroccan the flavours here are authentic, elegant and, most importantly, oh-so fresh. Any pasta dish is a winner.

(107 The Scenic Rd, Killcare)

It’s likely you’ve driven past SUQ Restaurant’s distinct coral exterior in Wamberal and vowed to visit soon. It’s time to stop gawping and promising, and set a date, as this is one of the most magnificent dining spots on the Coast. It’s all European fling feel here. Try the fried goat’s cheese. It’s a true delight. (80 Ocean View Dr, Wamberal)

Shady Palms. All images supplied

SHADY PALMS Missing international travel? Satisfy your wanderlust with a visit to this new Cali-inspired Avoca haunt AMY NELMES BISSETT

Opening at the former grounds of popular pizza joint Bombini in Avoca meant there were big boots to fill. But we can confirm, those boots have been filled. In fact, since opening in December, Shady Palms has been brimming with beautiful beings every night (and day) of the week. And if they opened in the morning, they’d probably be packed then too. As new openings go, it’s an instant hit.

Perhaps no surprise. The snap-up purchase, renovation and opening is by the same team behind Terrigal’s ever-popular Mumbo Jumbos. So yes, the tiered space has all the Insta-worthy style, similar to its Terrigal sib, but there’s also substance.

Shady Palms is all about the details.

Each space has been perfectly planned, and executed.

More than $250,000 was spent on the gardens alone, creating what is essentially a rabbit warren of tiers, punctuated by romantic nooks, stylish booths, twinkling fairy lights and an expansive restaurant for when the weather doesn’t hold out, a.k.a. the summer of 20|21.

The theme veers into Californian beach shack, but that alone downplays the effort that has gone into creating the space. In the restaurant itself, each lampshade has been handpicked from markets and second-hand furniture shops all across NSW. Details, people. It’s all about those details.

And let’s not overlook the prize piece. At the heart of Shady Palms is the same pizza oven that made Bombini famous. Even the simple margarita pizza sings here.

Other menu highlights are the oysters, the ceviche, and the poke bowls, each signalling that this is the spot to while away the day.

Seriously, it’s easy to arrive for lunch and later find yourself chowing down on some pizza to soak up the cocktails well after the sun sets, wondering why you even bothered to vow to just stay for one or two...

There’s something deliciously delightful about Shady Palms.

With a cocktail in one hand and a taco in the other, and with the sun slipping through the palms, it is a tonic to life without travel. A true holiday feel. And that’s what we’re all missing right now, isn’t it?

Shady Palms 366 Avoca Dr, Kincumber NSW 2251 shadypalms.com.au

Lyons Den. Image by Matt Morgan/Coasties Mag

NEW NEW NEW It’s a bar boom. Four new openings to visit, stat...

Beachie, Toukley

Terrigal Beach House

Opening at the end of February, The Beachie - once The Beachcomber - has had a Hampton’s-style refurb with brand new bar inside.

A visit is needed, stat.

(188/190 Main Rd, Toukley)

After a soft launch in January, it’s now all systems go for this Terrigal beachfront bar. Soak up the views with some champs and oysters. A perfect day. (40 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal)

Lyons Den, Gosford

Aromas, The Entrance

A Gossy bar that’s open every night of the week for cocktails and African tapas? Count us in. Read our full review at coastiesmag.com.au, or head over and judge this new haunt for yourself. (37a Mann St, Gosford)

Talk about the trifecta.

Waterfront views, wood fired pizzas and a seriously lengthy cocktail list. Aromas is a fantastic addition to The Entrance scene. (Shop 3/1 Tuggerah Parade, The Entrance)

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EXPLORE Shady Palms, Avoca. Image supplied

WYONG FOODIE TRAIL

From pastel-hued marshmallows to artisan cheese, Wyong is the birthplace of some of our region’s biggest culinary stars AMY NELMES BISSETT

Motel Mezza. Image supplied

So, it was kind of a no brainer that Wyong – the indigenous name for place of running water, thanks to its closeness to beaches to the east and Tuggerah Lake on its doorstep – should be our go-to destination for this issue: our foodie issue.

Oh, and Wyong is also the indigenous name for ‘edible yam’, which is not as mystical but rather fitting, really. So, let’s go eat...

From top: Daily Dough Co., The Marshmallow Co., Motel Mezza. All images supplied

Small but mighty. That’s how we think of Wyong. A little Coast town that has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to its food scene.

Wyong has some of the freshest fare in our region, a true farm-totable attitude to eats, and let’s not forget, it’s the birthplace of some of the Coast’s greatest exports.

Yep, we’re looking at you, Glee Coffee Roasters and The Marshmallow Co.

But hey, let’s not play favourites.

Another must-visit breakfast, brunch or lunch spot is also Duck Duck Moose (7 Alison Rd, Wyong). The coffee is a delight also, but here the selling point is the freshly baked treats. They change all the time, but what stays the same is each is outrageously, sinfully delicious.

So, if you visit Wyong and don’t visit the Wyong Milk Factory (141 Alison Rd, Wyong), have you really visited Wyong?

Have you? The former milk factory is now a cafe, bar and playground and, really, everything in between. It’s also a stellar spot if you’ve young children.

The playground is a cut above.

Glee Coffee Roasters. Image supplied

OK, let’s start where all good foodie stories start: with coffee. Glee Coffee Roasters is an institution on the Coast. Leaders in the creation of high-quality coffee, experts in all things roasting. You can grab a coffee and breakfast at the cafe found in The Chapman Buildings (9/14-16 Alison Rd, Wyong) in the heart of Wyong.

But as you know, Coasties is all about levelling up, so why not go straight to the bean and visit Glee Coffee Roasters HQ (Building 1, 4 Dulmison Ave, Wyong) instead? Here you’ll learn about GCR’s journey to the top while enjoying a superior cup. Only open on weekdays though.

It’s also home to the Daily Dough Co., whose popularity has rocketed since opening in July last year. Try the crème brûlée. It’s big enough to feed a small family.

For those who prefer savoury to sweet, then Wyong has you covered. Seriously, you shan’t return empty handed or with trousers that still fit. Oh no.

Time to head to Little Creek Cheese, also housed in the never-ending land of Wyong Milk Factory. Here you can enjoy some cheese tasting or just handpick a few of its unique offerings – like gin-flavoured cheddar - and enjoy in the privacy of your own home.

Don’t forget to venture to The Marshmallow Co. Here you’ll find an ever-growing array of pastel-hued clouds to enjoy. And they are wrapped

so beautifully that each little parcel is a perfect present. If you’ve the selfcontrol, that is. We definitely do not.

Far too heavenly.

Now, the pièce de résistance. Yes, all of the above has helped turn Wyong into a genuine food destination, but what has cemented it is the late-2018 opening of Motel Mezza - a slick Lebanese restaurant and bar housed inside an Art Deco building found smack-bang on the high street. Here you’ll find sophisticated share plates, superior cocktails that are ’gram ready (tag us please, @coastiesmag) and a true Great Gatsby-vibe. Wyong is worth a visit for this place alone.

Dessert is served at Motel Mezza. Image supplied

Bindi & Minka's doggy picks The insta-famous @bindi_and_minka share their favourite dog-friendly walks on the Central Coast

Terrigal Haven

Strickland State Forest

It ticks all the boxes: Whale watching, surf check, coffee and lots of attention at the off-lead dog park at the end of the walk.

For getting back to nature. A stunning natural environment enriched with lots of smells, logs to jump over and rivers to cross.

Long Jetty bike path

Shelly Beach to Toowoon Bay

Best done in the evening for the stunning sunset over the water.

Bonus part is that there are loads of secret spots for picnics.

This is the best place to romp off lead with other local dogs. And then finish off with brunch at Muncha’s under the surf club.

North Entrance Dune Walk

Canton Beach Foreshore

Start with a coffee and finish with a swim in the dog-friendly section of the beach at the north end.

South of Canton Beach Holiday Park is a meandering trail beneath the paperbarks and casuarinas.

LITTLE COASTIES

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Quality homewares online that you will LOVE.

www.rubyshomestore.com.au

Follow us on Instagram @rubys_homestore

Coasties Weekend Walk NORAH

HEAD

LOOP

2.5KM

|

ISOBEL GOODWIN-MOORE. IMAGE BY @SEANHORSWELLPHOTOS

TRICKY

LIGHTHOUSE

|

1

HR

BITS

OK, you’ve probably already ventured on this walk towards the iconic lighthouse at Norah Head. But, if like us, you’ve not done it for a while, it’s time to retrace your steps of yesteryears.

You’ll start out at the Bush Street Reserve, where there’s a small carpark and a lookout to begin the trek up to the lighthouse. While the walk is reasonably easy, there’s a steepish staircase down to the beach, and you’ll have to cross the rock shelf to get around to the other side, making it better for slightly older children.

Along the way, you’ll see crystal clear water and come across the Norah Head rockpool, then find your way back onto Lighthouse Beach, where you can take a dip in the stunning open water. There’s a track that takes you back to the grassy area of the reserve where you started.

Now that you’ve completed the track, you’ve earned a well-deserved coffee, which you can grab at The General Store Norah Head, located next to the carpark.

Staycation YOU

TERRIGAL

SLEEPS

$189

A

PACIFIC

2

NIGHT

DON’T

HAVE

TO

GO

FAR

TO

GET

AWAY

For all you Mykonos queens who haven’t been able to get your Euro hit for the past year or so, look no further than this perfect Terrigal staycation. Each room is filled with luxurious white-on-white interiors, a stunning pool that screams Greek holiday, a super-sized hot tub and pretty manicured gardens. Rooms have a kitchenette and there’s also a BBQ area. But let’s be real, you’ll be enjoying all the incredible eats of Terrigal. (terrigalpacific.net.au)

Gin Yoga ISOBEL GOODWIN-MOORE

Gin Yoga, presented by Bar Botanica, is the perfect place to stretch and sip away your worries while taking in the stunning scenery of the top garden.

The talented Rosie from Fit and Flexy will take you through the Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga style, which is suitable for all abilities. So don’t worry fellow tight hamstring peeps!

Bar Botanica 25 Portsmouth Rd, Erina NSW 2250 0405 655 100 (barbotanica.com.au)

After the class is done, there’s a gin and tonic waiting for you, created by Distillery onsite.

What a reward for all your hard work.

Tickets are $35 and spots are limited, so make sure you book well in advance for the 14 March or 11 April gin-infused yoga sessions.

LOCAL

h a r Smaeets. .

Star 104.5’s breakfast host Sarah Forster (@sarahamyforster) meets the Yattalunga mum who turned her devastating medical diagnosis into a popular tisane tea businesses. Meet this issue’s hidden hero...

Image by Matthew Bradley

There’s something simply satisfying about sitting down with a cup of tea. It can bring a sense of calm, take you to a happy place or help prepare you for the day ahead. Or in the case of Ashleigh Kay, the creator of a new range of organic herbal tisane blends, DAVĀ by Nature, a cup of tea is all of this and more.

Ashleigh’s passion for tea and its medicinal qualities stems from her own wellness journey. Six years ago, Ashleigh was told she had polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and a tumour on one of her ovaries.

It was unlikely she’d ever have children. “It was soul destroying because that was all I ever wanted. I’m the girl who got the Year 12 award for ‘person most likely to have the most kids’,” says Ashleigh.

She decided to completely overhaul her lifestyle. First quitting work as a nanny. Then seeing a naturopath and nutritionist, before completely changing her diet. “It got to the point where my diet was all wholefoods and I was having acupuncture three times a week and took herbal medicine,” Ashleigh explains.

Within three months, the tumour had shrunk. Twelve months on, it completely vanished, along with her PCOS. And so inspired by the healing properties of whole foods, Ashleigh opened an alternative health clinic in East Gosford in 2017 and wrote a cook book, Faux to Fresh, based on her growing knowledge from studying naturopathic nutrition and herbal therapeutics.

In late 2019, she started playing with an idea of creating a line of organic medicinal teas. “I’m a big tea drinker but I was finding it hard to find good quality loose leaf blends,” Ashleigh says. “I wanted something that was completely certified organic, and I wanted to make sure people knew exactly what was going into their bodies and why.”

But just as she started product testing, she was thrilled to discover she was pregnant.

Image by Matthew Bradley

“I was so happy,” she says. “I just pressed pause on DAVĀ until Harvey was eight weeks old and then jumped straight back into the project.”

Life as a single mum to a newborn is busy, but driven by passion, Ashleigh worked day and night to create DAVĀ. “Our vision is to motivate, educate and equip our customers with the knowledge of a herbalist, but from the comfort of their couch whilst enjoying our products.”

DAVĀ By Nature @davabynature (davabynature.com)

T H E

M O N E Y

M A N

What’s your prediction for the Coast housing market in 2021?

In short, I think prices will continue to rise. There’s an increased buyer demand and shortage of properties. It’s also down to the fact that the reserve bank has indicated that interest rates aren’t going to change for a long time, and there are potential changes to responsible lending.

Modest Finance’s Daniel Thompson is the go-to for Coasties re-financing and buying homes in our region.

Here he tells us what’s hot and what’s not in 2021…

Firstly, how did you came up with the name Modest Finance?

My mum actually came up with the name. She says I’m modest and I liked it because it was the opposite of everything I thought the banking industry was about. I really want people to feel they can approach us with any question, no matter how silly they might think it is. To us, it’s not going to be silly because you don’t know what you don’t know, and that’s totally OK. What are the most important questions to ask a broker?

My top four are always these: What industry body are you with?

How is the lending market? What clients do you deal with? How long will the process take?

The million dollar question: The Coast locations that’ll boom in the next few years?

The far end of the Coast definitely hasn’t hit its full potential. From Toukley all the way though to Crangan Bay, Blue Haven, Doyalson and Wyee are filled with golden opportunities. You just have to find them.

You’ve more questions, right?

Well, Daniel is Coasties’ new columnist answering all your property and investment questions.

But here are Modest Finance’s details if you need to chat to him before then.

Modest Finance hi@modestfinance.com.au modestfinance.com.au

the ultimate op shopping AMY NELMES BISSETT

There’s nothing more satisfying than rummaging through a charity shop, is there? But rummaging through a sprawling op-shop village? Well, that’s something else.

If you’ve never been to Fairhaven in Point Clare and you’re a fan of hunting down second-hand treasures, then let us fill you in on the ultimate op-shopping destination on the Central Coast. It’s a goodie.

Surrounded by greenery, the Fairhaven grounds are spotted with individual miniwarehouses. There’s the toy shed, kitchen warehouse and homewares. There’s even a nursery filled with plants. And of course, vintage clothes. So many vintage clothes.

And onsite, there’s the Fare Cravin’ cafe, which serves delicious breakfasts and hearty lunches (try the pan-fried bara!) every day.

But best of all, every purchase benefits those who live with disability on the Coast.

That’s what Fairhaven has been about since launching in 1962. And today, the approved NDIS provider offer a range of services - from employment opportunities to supported disability accommodation - to make this happen. It gave us all the feels during our recent rummage (two hats and a retro singlet later...). So go and support a wonderful cause then share your treasures with us on our Facebook and Instagram @coastiesmag and the @fairhavenopshoppingvillage.

Fairhaven Op Shopping Village 209 Brisbane Water Dr, Point Clare (02) 4349 5521 fairhaven.org.au

leading the pack Pot washer at 13. Cafe owner at 22. Restaurant maven at 29.

We meet the hospitality juggernaut, Tara Senam AMY NELMES BISSETT

Dreams can be made anywhere.

Even in the kitchen of the cafe at Norah Head Lighthouse by a teenage pot washer. Right from the start, and albeit right from the bottom of the industry, Tara Senam knew that hospitality was for her.

“I came home from my first shift, just thirteen years old, and said to my parents, ‘I want to own that cafe one day’,” laughs Tara.

Fast forward to today, and Tara has racked up an impressive career.

She’s behind some of the Central Coast’s most successful restaurant and cafe launches. There’s been the Gosford trifecta: Tommy’s, Jimmy G’s and Byblos. And most recently, the director of the Meraki Group, overseeing the ever-popular Motel Mezza in Wyong and Pinocchios in Gosford.

Tara is an anomaly. Not only as a woman in an industry saturated with males, especially at the top, but her success came incredibly early.

She is only 31, and in her 20s had a career and portfolio that would be the envy of those double her age.

And she’s juggled it all as a mum-oftwo, living in Terrigal with Tadhg, now eight, and three-year-old Tate.

“I’m lucky. I’ve had strong mentors,” says Tara. “First it was Franziska Prosser at Platinum Blu. She was a strong female in the industry.

She taught me you could turn a job in hospitality into a career.

And then my former business partner James [Nouri] really cemented that for me and gave me so many opportunities.”

In early 2020, Tara bought out James and is now 100 percent owner of the Meraki Group. “He was ready to do something different,” says Tara. “But he’s someone I have a lot of respect for. He’s helped me so much during my journey.”

And it’s a journey, she confesses, that has had its challenges. Opening Pinocchios, a wine bar, without any experience in wines was daunting.

“It wasn’t a smooth opening but ensured Motel Mezza could be,” says Tara. “I started young and I’ve made mistakes. I’m OK to admit that. I’ve learnt that you should lead from your heart. That’s the biggest learning curve, I think. My leadership skills have matured.”

Both images supplied.

So, what’s next? Because we know there is a next. “I’ve an Italian and a Lebanese restaurant but my heritage is Greek, so I keep playing with that.

But I’m always thinking about businesses and about cool little concepts. But the constant is that I want to keep providing venues that add value to the Central Coast.”

Motel Mezza 98 Pacific Hwy, Wyong Pinocchios 32 William St, Gosford

Image supplied

LOCAL

WONDER

It’s easy to write off every fast food restaurant as a global money-making business. But there is one that stands apart. If you want to eat fast and support local, then Red Rooster is where it’s at. Here’s why...

Now, if we think of a local business, it’s unlikely that Red Rooster (redrooster.com.au) is the first that comes to mind. A roast chicken takeout restaurant that’s spotted in every convenient location across the country.

But here’s the thing: Red Rooster is actually a franchise network. Aussie born and bred, Red Rooster is a restaurant ‘chain’ that’s actually operated by local individual small businesspeople.

The four restaurants on the Coast are owned by locals, serving locals and are squarely focused on the community they are set within.

Red Rooster’s NSW state manager Deb Ruka tells Coasties, “It’s perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions that Red Rooster is just the same as your other big quick-service food chains.

And in a few ways we are… But we have been on the Central Coast for decades and have well and truly

become entrenched in the local community.”

Since 1972, when Red Rooster first started, it has operated more like a family - expanding out of Western Australia, where it came to life under the Kailis family - to today, where it is one of the nation’s biggest employers and an iconic Aussie brand that has always been dedicated to satisfying Australian’s chicken cravings.

The focus has always been firm: to steer clear of being a faceless super-chain and bring joy to the everyday through its delicious food.

“Family-owned is really at the heart of Red Rooster,” says Deb. “We have husband and wife franchise partners, parents and kids... For many young kids on the Coast, Reds has been their very first place of employment. We don’t take this responsibility lightly and have seen many crew members flourish and move into management or even become franchise partners themselves.”

Last year, we at Coasties were the first in the country to try Red Rooster’s new Crunchy Fried Chicken in an exclusive trial. Prepared by hand using fresh (not frozen) 100 percent Aussie chicken, it’s crunchy and golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. We tried and were totally satisFRIED (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves). It’s now destined to be rolled out nationally during 2021.

Our verdict? All the deliciousness of a fast-food hit but with the sweet satisfaction of also supporting local.

Winner winner, chicken dinner, for sure.

Image supplied

GIVEAWAY

We’ll be teaming up with Red Rooster to give away one of three Red Rooster packs (valued at $100), each filled with vouchers to spend in restaurants and limited edition merch. Head over to our socials to learn more, @coastiesmag on both Instagram and Facebook.

redrooster.com.au 157 The Entrance Rd, Erina 52 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford 184 Pacific Hwy, Tuggerah Goobarabah Ave, Lake Haven NSW 2263

new openings Step inside, smell the freshly dried paint and welcome these new businesses to the Coast AMY NELMES BISSETT

Hernando’s Hideaway

Gypsea Picnics

Originally based in Long Jetty, the Hernando’s Hideaway team have now arrived in East Gosford.

Opening in February, this is the spot for authentic Mexican food and all the margs. (47 Victoria St, East Gosford)

Luxury boho-style picnics are now the ultimate in birthday party chic, right? And there’s a new contender for the most stylish party planner on the Coast. Step forward the newly opened, Gypsea Picnics. (gypseapicnics.com)

Ott Physiotherapy

Central Coast Commons

Opening in mid-January, Ott Physiotherapy is more than just your bog-standard physio. The husband-and-wife team have carefully planned everything from design (slick) to messaging (also slick). We’re booking in. Stat. (ottphysio.com.au)

If your 2020 obsession with washing your hands has rolled into ’21 then it’s time to visit this newly opened artisan soap shop in Gosford. Each soap has been handcrafted on-site. Keep your peepers peeled for workshops coming soon. (centralcoastcommons.com.au)

Mumma Clucka Newly opened in February, this Erina hot chicken shop has become an instant hit. Roast chicken and chips (with chicken salt, obvs), hot chook rolls and everything chickenrelated in between. A must visit.

Even if just for the name. Absolutely genius. (mummaclucka.com.au)

Allure The Salon OK, not quite new new, but Allure The Salon has moved into a new space in Terrigal, and what a space it is. Step inside this dream salon and you’ll find all soft hues, light leather seats and carefully picked art, it’s plush, lush and plain fabulous. (allurethesalon.com.au)

Gypsea Picnics. Image supplied

# S U P P O R T L O C A L

THE EDIT

TAKE 10% OFF WITH THE COASTIES CARD* COASTIESCARD.COM.AU

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1. Crawling Snail, $39, Ruby’s Home Store (rubyshomestore.com.au) 2. Sleeping Bag, $249, When The North Wind Blows (northwindblows.com.au) 3. Luxe Crown Pot, $60, Mowgli Studio (1/384 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty) 4. Nudie Rudie Wine Cooler, $89, The Petal Sisters (123 Avoca Dr, Kincumber) 5. Najo Earrings , $159, Niche Home & Living (4/15 Church St Terrigal) *Only available at Niche Home & Living homewares

WELLNESS

t e i d e h t h Ditc For the past eight years, Accredited Practising Dietitian Nicole Saliba has been on a one-woman mission to teach our community that balanced eating, rather than restrictive dieting, is at the core of a healthy lifestyle.

Here the Central Coast-based EatSense owner explains all...

DIETS DON'T WORK

NOT ABOUT WEIGHT

Strict food rules, calorie counting, and dieting encourage us to stop trusting our bodies. And research shows that 95 percent of people face weight regain within five years, so dieting doesn’t work.

EatSense isn’t about pursuing an ‘ideal weight’. Instead, we believe that self-acceptance of the body, such as stopping eating when you are full, is the key to making positive changes.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

FOOD IS MEDICINE

It’s all about being equipped with the knowledge of how to nourish our bodies best and forming a good relationship with food. We believe that healthy eating should be straightforward, and make sense!

Research shows us how powerful the nutrients in our food are in activating or stopping certain disease controlling genes in the body. It’s this that is at the core of our approach at EatSense.

EatSense, Ground Level, Riverside Tower, 69 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford (eatsense.com.au)

BEAUTY HONESTY BOX THE TREATMENT

DOES IT HURT?

Skin Booster.

Numbing lotion is applied so there’s minimal pain from the micro-needling. But skin can be a bit red after, so try and block out the rest of your day if you can.

WHAT IS IT? A liquid filler is injected into the top layer of the face’s skin (dermis), resulting in a glow that lasts up to 12 months. Recommendation is for three 45-minute sessions.

WHO IS IT FOR? Hands up if your skin is looking tired and dull? It’s the curse of the over 35s, isn’t it? This is the treatment for those wanting to regain the enviable glow of their 20s.

DOES IT WORK? Drum roll... it does! The outcome was outstanding. Say hello to glowy, dewy and fresh skin for the first time since the 00s. Highly recommended.

We tried the Skin Booster at You

by Dr Shauna Watts, costing $650. (youbydrshaunawatts.com)

Image by Oak Street Images

s e t i r u o v a Loca l F Mum-of-two Nicole Doerksen moved to Australia from Canada in 2009 and has been living on the Central Coast for the past four years. The Ray White Kincumber agent lives in Kincumber with her husband Nick, their children, Lily, four, and two-year-old Arlo, and their fur baby, Molly. Here’s her ’hood favourites…

Drink My pick-me-up is always a Pink Dragon Smoothie with coconut milk from Bowlarama Bowls.

The Block ’n Tackle Brewery is a great place to enjoy unique craft beers. And Kincumber Hotel is also a goodie for a few drinks while the kids play outside in the park and sandpit.

Eat The Kincumber Post Cafe has has the best tasting breakfast on the Coast, no matter what you pick off the menu. I also love LooLoo’s Coffee Warehouse. Their insanely good toasties have inspired me to only eat toasties with salt and pepper on the outside.

Play Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre offer various classes, school holiday programs and community support initiatives. I volunteer at the breaky club and take African dance classes there.

We also really love walking the Kincumber Mountain and rainy days at the Indoor Play Centre.

@THELUCKYBEE_

Issue 04 MARCH | APRIL Thank you to all the people that made this issue special. coastiesmag.com.au If you would like to be involved in future issues of Coasties contact us at: hello@coastiesmag.com @coastiesmag