COAST_Spring 2026 by Coast Publishing

DISCOVER MORE OF THE CENTRAL COAST. DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED. SPRING 2026

MEET THE NEIGHBOURHOOD – LONG JETTY & TOOWOON BAY / OUT & ABOUT FOR SPRING COASTAL WALKS WITH GREAT CAFÉ STOPS / DESIGNING A HOME AROUND THINGS YOU LOVE

COAST CONTENTS

Spring 2026 WELCOME 6 DISCOVER THE CENTRAL COAST Map 8

Meet the neighbourhood: Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay 9

LOVING LOCAL Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay 14

5 COASTAL WALKS with great café stops 20 CHOOSING THE RIGHT RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE 29

EAT & DRINK Dionysia: worthy of the hype? 36 Hotel Gosford 100 years young and just getting started 38 The Loft: where the wee small hours hang out 40 Exclusive to Central Coast residents: a staycation at voco Gosford 42

WHERE THE WETLANDS WHISPER: PIONEER DAIRY 44 COAST LIVING Three barns form one beautiful sense of place in Picketts Valley 48 Design matters: designing a home around the things you love 53 A tiny rainforest behind the garden gate 56

WANT ECO FRIENDLY LAND CLEARING: Goatbusters! 60 DESTINATIONS Behind the gates of Sweetwater, Hunter Valley 62

WELL BEING I can follow conversations now 66 Where great hair gets personal 67

COAST VIBES 2026 Gosford Art Prize finalists 68 Impressions of Country: Cheryl McCoy’s art of connection 72

OUT & ABOUT for Spring 75 COAST FAMILIES Motherhood is wild, wonderful and, at times, wildly lonely 79

PEARL FARM TOURS

PEARLS & JEWELLERY

PEARL MEAT & OYSTERS

BROKEN BAY SHELLAR DOOR

12 Kowan Road, Mooney Mooney, just off the M1 north of Sydney brokenbaypearlfarm.com.au | 0488 361 042

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COAST

Wyrrabalong coast walking track

P U B L I S H I N G EDITOR, PUBLISHER Catharine Retter editorial@coastpublishing.com.au ART DIRECTOR Jude Rowe, Agave Creative Group

PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Haymes • Merrillie Redden

Welcome

PRINCIPAL WRITERS Ashleigh Bakin • Kay Fisher • Liz Ginis Suzy Jarratt • Catharine Retter • Linda Ross ILLUSTRATORS Maps: Guy Holt • Lauren Merrick ADVERTISING Anissa Vineburg 0408 692 129 anissa@coastpublishing.com.au ALL THINGS DIGITAL Amy Buckle admin@coastpublishing.com.au DISTRIBUTION David Jackson admin@coastpublishing.com.au

One of the joys of editing COAST magazine has always been discovering the unexpected: fascinating snippets of Central Coast history, wonderful people (or even animals) doing interesting things, a new restaurant we suddenly need to try, or a walk we can’t believe we haven’t done before. This issue of COAST is no exception. Delve into the stories behind the story of Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay. Discover how Mann Street in Gosford is quietly turning itself into a new eating hub. Who saw that coming? If retirement living is beginning to appear in your crystal ball – or you have a parent who’s either alarmed or positively delighted at that prospect – you’d better get the inside story on what to expect in our ‘not retiring from life’ feature (choosing between barefoot bowls or new bicycle shorts perhaps?). Any great walk is better with a good coffee at the end. We’ve uncovered some of the best walk-and-coffee combinations around the Coast, although whether you justify it as a walk with a coffee, or a coffee with a walk is entirely up to you. No judgement! The finalists in the Gosford Regional Gallery’s major annual award, the Gosford Art Prize, have been announced with some terrific local artists among them. We went to print before the big announcement … so there’s only one question: were we clever enough – or lucky enough – to feature the 2026 winner? If you’re a mum of young children and feel your life is no longer your own, take heart. You’re very far from being alone. It’s one of the peculiar contradictions of motherhood that you can be surrounded by clamouring little voices all day and yet still feel lonely. Read about the ways Central Coast mums are finding connections, support and the occasional uninterrupted meal for themselves. There’s plenty more to read inside. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifetime Coastie, we think you’ll discover something new. Happy reading.

Catharine

Catharine Retter, Publisher

ADMINISTRATION admin@coastpublishing.com.au COAST is published by JSG Publishing Pty Ltd t/a COAST Publishing ABN 83 681 639 967 PO Box 6407 Kincumber NSW 2251 ISSN: 2982-1126 (Online) ISSN: 2982-1118 (Print) COPYRIGHT AND WARRANTIES The editorial content, photographic content, design and graphic art (including design of any advertisements by COAST Publishing) are all subject to copyright and must not be reproduced in any form without written permission from COAST Publishing. While we strive to ensure information contained in this magazine is correct and current at the time of printing, details may be subject to change and we recommend contacting venues or event organisers before planning your visit. The information contained in this magazine has been provided by contributors, interviewees and advertisers and their sources. No warranty is given by COAST Publishing as to the accuracy of this information nor any liability arising from any reliance upon the information contained herein. FIND US ON Facebook

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Receive COAST online, free, in your inbox each month by subscribing at coastmagazine.com.au or subscribe at isubscribe.com.au/coast-magazine-subscription.cfm We wish to acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land, the Awabakal and Darkinjung peoples and their Elders past and present. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. PEFC Certified Paper from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources PEFC/21-31-119

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Printed in Australia. ON THE COVER The Entrance by Pratap Vangala @thru_prataps_lens

CENTRAL COAST AND LAKES Villages & Beaches

DISCOVER THE CENTRAL COAST

DISCOVER

THE CENTRAL COAST Meet the Neighbourhood

LONG JETTY & TOOWOON BAY

Long Jetty

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DISCOVER THE CENTRAL COAST

Early history Long before European settlement, the coastal strip was a popular seasonal gathering place for the Darkinjung people who came to fish and collect shellfish. They crafted bark canoes, sealed with grass-tree resin, while using multi-pronged fishing spears (mootims) for fishing the lake, and carried their catch in stringy hand-woven bags. The arrival of European settlers in the late 1820s brought bullock teams, a timber industry and farming practices, as well as diseases that had a devastating effect on the Aboriginal population. The suburb’s defining jetty was built in 1915 by local landowner, William Henry Price. Tuggerah Lake is notoriously shallow, so the jetty had to extend a considerable distance before ferries could reach water deep enough to collect passengers travelling between the local estates and Wyong. There are two more historic long jetties nearby (though not quite as long): the 250-metre Watkins Jetty named after landowner Alfred Watkins in the 1920s, and Parrys Jetty, the baby of the trio at 100 COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL

COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL

What’s in a name Located south of The Entrance on the peninsula between Tuggerah Lake and the ocean, the suburb of Long Jetty, unsurprisingly, takes its name from the very long timber jetty that stretches 351 metres into Tuggerah Lake. It remains one of the Central Coast’s most recognisable landmarks, and locals lay claim to it being the longest jetty in NSW. Neighbouring Toowoon Bay was known for many years by locals as Chinamans Bay, after Chinese fishermen who established a fishing base there in the 1820s. They cured and smoked their fish and sent their produce as far afield as Queensland, the goldfields and, it’s said, even to China. An early European landowner, Henry Holden, established a dairy farm in the district in 1828 and called it Toowoon. The name is commonly said to refer to the local Aboriginal word for the call of the wonga pigeon, and Toowoon Bay became the area’s official name.

COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL

Watkins Jetty

Remains of Long Jetty 1927

The original Long Jetty with ferry waiting shed.

metres, built in 1931 by another landowner, Stanley Parry. All three line the Long Jetty Foreshore Reserve, and all were originally built to service the landowners’ estates and ferry passengers. The original and longest jetty, built from paperbark trees, lasted only 12 years when severe storms swept much of it away. The contract to rebuild the jetty was awarded to three McLachlan brothers – a name that remains closely connected with the area through McLachlan Partners real estate which was established as far back as 1924, the first real estate agency in the district, now run by grandson, Bruce McLachlan. Bruce had his own dramatic experience with the jetty as an eightyear-old. He took his twelve-month-old brother for a walk in the stroller onto the jetty but became so entranced by the fishes below, that he accidentally let the stroller roll off the jetty into the lake. Fortunately, the water was shallow enough for his little brother, still seated in the stroller, to hold his head above water. Bruce jumped in, couldn’t lift his brother up but somehow pushed the stroller through the mud and seagrass to shore. He wheeled the very wet, crying toddler home, seagrass clinging to his torso, delivered him to mum and then ran away – too upset to face a scolding for the rest of the day. The little brother, who escaped that early demise, is Craig McLachlan, today a well-known actor.

DISCOVER THE CENTRAL COAST

Wyrrabalong National Park

Who lives there

Why you’d visit

Long Jetty thrived in the 1960s and ’70s but the opening of the Bay Village Shopping Centre drew shoppers away from Long Jetty. Businesses closed, shopfronts emptied and the suburb lost some of its shine. Council developed a masterplan to demolish the jetties – then in poor repair – and replace the shops along The Entrance Road with high-rise residential dwellings. Young families and singles had begun to see the possibilities in Long Jetty’s more affordable homes, lakefront setting and faded mid-century charm. They banded together, finding a collective voice to successfully rally against the plan. Bruce McLachlan, who had once saved his baby brother, now tried to help save his community, becoming the key liaison between council, traders and the community. In an effort to rejuvenate the area, the council then offered main road businesses $2,000 each to paint their shopfronts in a palette of purples, yellows and greens. The somewhat bohemian look led to Long Jetty becoming known as the Newtown of the Coast. Young eclectic business owners, such as the Glass Onion Society Café, Green Tangerine and Modern Organics (now known as Neighbours) helped lead efforts to rejuvenate the suburb, giving it a retro vibe and an alternative visitor experience to the large shopping centres. Gradually, the ‘Newtown’ facades were whitewashed. The old Savoy Theatre was reborn as a funky bar, intimate cinema and entertainment venue. Well known builders, Kyal and Kara from The Block TV series called the area home and established their thriving building and renovations business there. Plain Janes became the go-to place for on-trend fashions, homewares and gifts. Pilates, yoga and meditation studios now sit alongside older shopfronts, vintage stores and cafés with a focus on wholefoods and Zen-like gardens.

Walk, ride a bike or linger by the lake. The Tuggerah Lake foreshore shared pathway is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to explore the area. A good place to start is at Long Jetty itself, near Archbold Road. Head south along the lake, past Watkins Jetty towards Saltwater Creek Reserve, a favourite with families for its playgrounds, picnic areas and open spaces. Or head north and follow the path through protected wetlands towards Picnic Point Reserve at The Entrance. Either way, you’ll have plenty of company from the local birdlife. Pelicans, black swans and cormorants are regulars, often found around the shoreline as though waiting for someone else to make the first move. Swim at Toowoon Bay. Protected by an offshore reef, Toowoon Bay is a beautiful horseshoe-shaped beach that is generally calmer than many of the Coast’s more exposed surf beaches. Its sheltered water and gently curving shoreline make it particularly popular with families. Swadling Reserve sits just behind the sand, with broad grassy areas, barbecues, picnic tables and a playground. It’s the kind of place where a quick swim can easily turn into a longer relaxing day. Nearby Toowoon Point offers views across both Toowoon Bay and Little Bay. Explore Wyrrabalong National Park. The southern section of Wyrrabalong National Park stretches along the coast between Forresters Beach and Bateau Bay, just a short drive from Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay. Walking tracks, rock platforms and lookouts open up sweeping coastal views, and during their migration season you’re likely to spot whales passing along the Humpback Highway. The national park is known for its birdlife, coastal forest and rich Indigenous heritage, 8 as well as goannas, bandicoots and tawny frogmouths.

DISCOVER THE CENTRAL COAST

Housing market snapshot

Transport

LONG JETTY Median house price: $1.274 million (down 3.1% in past 12 months) Median apartment price: $755,500 (up 4.9 % in past 12 months) Median house rent: $650 per week Median apartment rent: $570 per week

CDC NSW’s Red Bus services run through Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay, connecting the area with The Entrance, Bateau Bay, Tuggerah, Wyong and Gosford. Tuggerah is the nearest railway station, with trains travelling south towards Gosford and Sydney, and north towards Wyong and Newcastle. By car, The Entrance is only a few minutes away, Tuggerah Station is around 21 minutes and it’s approximately 36 minutes to Gosford (depending on the time of day).

TOOWOON BAY Its coveted beachside position is reflected in Toowoon Bay’s higher housing prices. Median house price: $2.2 million (up 24.5% in past 12 months) Median apartment price: $970,000 (down 10.2% in past 12 months) Median house rent: $1,000 per week Median apartment rent: $590 per week

Community pages There are several Facebook groups helping locals swap news, recommendations, produce and the occasional firmly held opinion, including: Long Jetty Community Blue Bay, Toowoon Bay, Shelly Beach, Long Jetty Community Long Jetty Spiritual Group Long Jetty Produce Swap Toowoon Bay SLSC Toowoon Bay Friendly Swimming Group

Snapshot figures valid as at July 2026 only.

Schools Long Jetty has one high school, Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College (The Entrance Campus) at Shelly Beach with classes for Years 11 to 12. It offers a wide range of HSC pathways from academic and vocational, to trade and supported learning options. Its Berkeley Vale Campus and Tumbi Umbi Campus cater to Years 7 to 10. The nearest primary schools include:

Why locals love it Perhaps the best thing about Long Jetty and Toowoon Bay is that you get to enjoy both lake life and beach life. One suburb has reinvented itself without quite losing its edginess; the other has held onto the easy rhythm of a small beachside village. Together, they make a neighbourhood that feels unmistakably Central Coast: a little nostalgic, a little creative and very easy to settle into. C

The Entrance Public School Killarney Vale Public School Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic School, Shelley Beach Bateau Bay Public School Long Jetty Preschool is currently rated as exceeding national quality standards. COURTESY OF MCLACHLAN PARTNERS REAL ESTATE

COURTESY OF MCLACHLAN PARTNERS REAL ESTATE

Toowoon Bay

COURTESY OF MCLACHLAN PARTNERS REAL ESTATE

Long Jetty

Toowoon Bay

COURTESY OF MCLACHLAN PARTNERS REAL ESTATE

Long Jetty

Compiled in collaboration with McLachlan Partners Real Estate.

DISCOVER THE CENTRAL COAST

Toowoon Bay

LOVING LONG JETTY & TOOWOON BAY PLAIN JANES Fashion, gifts and the little things you didn’t know you needed. In the heart of Long Jetty, Plain Janes has become one of the suburb’s go-to fashion and lifestyle destinations, known for its eye for what’s current and its knack for letting you discover something you love the minute you see it. Its thoughtfully curated mix brings together women’s and children’s fashion, homewares, gifts, beauty and accessories, along with the joy of unexpected little finds. But for owner Britney Woods, the best part of Plain Janes is being part of the Long Jetty community and getting to know the people who walk through the door. It may be a small local business, but there’s a big love here for beautiful things, good people and making shopping feel fun again.

346 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty plainjanesstore.com

FLOUR & CO Coffee first. Pastry second. No judgement. If your favourite part of the day is that first coffee – this is definitely the café for you. Or you’ve finished countless laps, go on, enjoy that well-earned recovery feed. You’ve earned every bite. Or maybe you’ve just survived another day with the kids – be kind to yourself. There’s a pastry with your name on it. Choose from a changing menu, fresh out of the oven and ready to go. Think croissants, gourmet pies, fresh and fruity muffins, sourdough toasties, Vegemite scrolls along with the seriously tempting sweet stuff. Layers of carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and topped with candied walnuts. Or perhaps a choc brownie. They seriously taste as good as they look. 88 Toowoon Bay Road, Toowoon Bay @flourandco_

PALM BAY LIFESTYLE A little coastal luxury, wrapped to go. Nestled in the heart of Toowoon Bay, Palm Bay Lifestyle is a destination for beautiful things, thoughtful gifts and coastal living. A carefully curated collection of homewares, candles, fragrance, self-care, décor, accessories and unique gifts and clothing – those little pieces that make life feel a little more special. Passionate about supporting Australian-owned and made brands, Palm Bay Lifestyle’s quest is beautiful pieces chosen for their style, quality and sense of occasion. Inspired by the relaxed beauty of the Central Coast, Palm Bay Lifestyle brings together effortless style, warmth and a little touch of luxury – right in the midst of Toowoon Bay village.

82 Toowoon Bay Road, Toowoon Bay palmbay.com.au

LOVING LOCAL

Kims Beachside Retreat.

A lovely story, 140 years in the making. Nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest, and opening directly onto the sands of Toowoon Bay, Kims Beachside Retreat is celebrating its 140th birthday as Australia’s oldest operating resort. Its sentinel Norfolk Island pines along the beachfront were planted by Captain Charlson in 1886 when he first established Kims, then known as ‘The Camp’. Time-honoured traditions continue, such as the ringing of the bell to announce the dinner hour, dating from a time when gentlemen wore pocket watches too delicate to wear on the sand. The flagstaff, too, has its story. It came from Satin Sheets, a yacht sailed by former Kims’ owner Andrew Strachan, who proudly flew the Australian flag from it. That tradition continues today, with the national flags of international visitors also hoisted in welcome. Special ensigns mark significant national days, from the Cross of St Andrew on Robbie Burns Night to the French tricolour on Bastille Day. Set among the palms and rainforest are 36 timber bungalows and villas, each a private haven combining the retreat’s timeless charm

with contemporary luxury. Guests can choose accommodation with their own private swimming pool, heated outdoor Jacuzzi, spa bath, sauna or double massage-shower temple. Among the visitors you may find honeymooners returning year after year, guests celebrating significant milestones, as well as celebrities seeking the quiet luxury of remaining unnoticed. Renowned photographer Max Dupain stayed during the 1950s, and his evocative photographs of Kims and its surroundings still grace the restaurant walls. In the 1990s, the likes of the Rolling Stones and Michael Jackson also discovered Kims and spread the word. Some guests return simply to linger over a cocktail or dine in the à la carte restaurant, legendary for its dishes created from fresh, carefully sourced local produce, accompanied by the endlessly changing panorama of the ocean. Kims is adults-only, intimate and steeped in history, a place for a relaxing and indulgent experience, where romance is re-kindled: a place where you fall in love but also that you inevitably fall in love with.

LOVING LOCAL

COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL

Tuggerah Lake share pathway

LOVING LOCAL

DIGGERS THE ENTRANCE Eat, play and stay – all by the lake.

It may have The Entrance in its name, but Diggers sits at the heart and soul of Long Jetty, right on the foreshores of Tuggerah Lake with spectacular watery sunsets timed just right for that late afternoon drink in one of the three bars, or a relaxed dinner at the Outside-In Kitchen Café. The café brings the outdoors in with a giant tree centre stage, framed by two huge skylights and floor-to-ceiling windows. There’s also a children’s play area – The Jungle Play Zone – adjacent to the café, which means parents have a chance to linger over a meal while the kids explore mazes, tunnels and a host of games. Diggers has become something of a destination precinct, partnering with Lakeview Over 55s Living on one side and ibis Styles The Entrance hotel on the other. Residents and hotel guests can simply stroll to Diggers to enjoy the ambience, live music, food & drink and, more recently, the construction of the Club’s newest addition, Roll n Pickle. Roll n Pickle forms part of Diggers’ new outdoor recreational precinct with a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking dedicated pickleball courts and a synthetic bowling green. It’s a relaxed setting where locals can enjoy a meal or drink while watching the action on the courts or get involved themselves. It’s particularly popular with those who loved to play tennis but now appreciate covering a smaller court area. Pickle ball has become one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and watching the fun players have, it’s easy to see why.

Then there’s The Bench sports bar, with its enormous LED screen and multiple TVs for catching the action, plus The Pavilion Events Centre for conferences, celebrations and ticketed, live entertainment. Whether you’re there for a sunset drink, dinner with the family, a game of pickleball or a night of live entertainment, Diggers has a knack for being many things to many people, and very much part of the Long Jetty community.

315 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty diggers.club

LOVING LOCAL

ibis Styles The Entrance When you’re perfectly located beside Tuggerah Lake, in the heart of Long Jetty and a stone’s throw to The Entrance, one of the joys is simply stepping outside. There are lake foreshore walks, waterbirds and, foremost among them, the majestic pelicans gliding low over the lake, keeping an eye out for the best fishing spots, or perched on lamp posts with an unmistakable sense of belonging. Guests at the ibis Styles The Entrance get to enjoy the same environment: the reflections on the lake on still mornings when the water becomes almost mirror-like, catching the sky in pinks, golds and pale blues that soften into late afternoons. You can step outside into your own picture postcard: the gentle flap of canvas from a passing sailboat, foreshore trees bending to the water, the feeling of spring that stretches lazily into summer and the calm of lakeside living. It’s the mood and a colour palette that inspired the significant 2026

refurbishment the hotel has undergone, captured throughout the hotel and grounding it firmly in its lakeside setting. The 52-room hotel offers fresh, contemporary and affordable, accommodation complete with the new ibis Sweet Beds. Choose from Standard, Superior, Accessible and Family rooms, with select room types taking in the beautiful lake views. A covered walkway gives guests direct access to Diggers The Entrance for dining, entertainment and family-friendly facilities, while Long Jetty’s cafés and boutique shops are just a short stroll away. It’s also an easy launching point for exploring the natural attractions of the Central Coast. And don’t forget to find the pelican artwork in the lobby at ibis Styles The Entrance – and take a postcard selfie. 315 Central Coast Highway, Long Jetty ibistheentrance.com.au 02 4336 0400

COAST FEATURE

5 coastal walks with GREAT CAFÉ STOPS

There’s something special about pairing a beautiful walk with the promise of good coffee, a slice of cake or a seaside lunch at the end. On the Central Coast, our foreshore paths and lake loops aren’t just about the scenery – they're lined with local cafés and restaurants, each with their own character and charm. Whether it’s a brisk morning meander or a lazy Sunday stroll, here are five favourite local walks with perfectly timed eateries along the way.

Kincumber to Davistown walk

COAST FEATURE

1 ETTALONG FORESHORE TO UMINA BEACH WALK Easy coastal path – approx. 3 km one way. ©

A beachside stroll the whole family will love. Starting at Ettalong Waterfront, the flat, paved promenade hugs the curve of Broken Bay all the way to Umina Beach, with views stretching across to Bouddi Peninsula, secluded Lobster Beach, Wagstaffe Wharf, and the protected Lion Island. This walk is pram-friendly, wheelchairaccessible and lined with picnic lawns and playgrounds — so take your time. Grab a coffee, roll at your own pace, admire the panoramic view and treat yourself to a meal at the finish line.

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Amalfi Ettalong Beach Fresh, modern Italian cuisine by the sea. Think house-made pasta, seafood and crisp wines in a bright coastal setting. Ideal for a fancy mid-walk refuel or post-stroll dinner. Perfectly placed just one-minute walk from The Esplanade oceanside path. lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/ettalong-beach/amalfi

The BOX on the Water Restaurant & Kiosk A local icon perched right on the Ettalong Beach edge, The BOX pairs uninterrupted waterfront views with modern Australian dining. Grab a takeaway taco or drink from the kiosk, or settle into an Adirondack chair by the sea wall and watch the birds and ferries drift by. lovecentralcoast.com/the-box-on-the-water

Margarita Daze Perched right on Ocean Beach, Margarita Daze brings tropical bar vibes, ocean views, outdoor seating and a relaxed menu of pizzas, seafood and cocktails, perfect for sunset sips and the tail end of a day stretching your legs.

lovecentralcoast.com/margarita-daze

Jasmine Greens Park Kiosk COURTESY OF THE BOX ON THE WATER

Nestled inside the expansive Peninsula Recreation Precinct, this community-minded kiosk serves wholesome meals, fresh juices and quality coffee. It’s also just a two-minute walk from The Esplanade and the waves of Umina Beach.

The BOX

Jasmine Greens Park Kiosk

Margarita Daze

COURTESY OF MARGARITA DAZE

lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/umina-beach/jasmine-greens-park-kiosk

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COAST FEATURE

KINCUMBER TO DAVISTOWN FORESHORE WALK Flat foreshore path – approx. 5 km return.

If you're after something peaceful, step into this. The shared pathway winds through mangroves and past ship-shaped timber jetties, following the edge of Kincumber Broadwater to Davistown. It's the kind of walk where you'll hear more birdcall than traffic, spot pelicans drying their wings on the pylons, and wonder why you don't do this more often. The pace is gentle and unhurried, much like the villages at either end.

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Kincumber Hotel A long-standing local favourite with a sunny beer garden and hearty pub meals. It’s a five-minute walk from the foreshore, so it’s great for a casual lunch or a cold drink, especially if the whole family is in tow. lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/kincumber/kincumber-hotel

Davistown RSL – The Davo Known to locals as 'The Davo', this waterfront club offers sweeping views across Kincumber Broadwater, with expansive indoor and outdoor seating, seafood platters and family-friendly service. The Empire Bay–Davistown–Saratoga–Woy Woy ferry stop is a 10-minute walk down the road, ideal for a post-lunch explore before sailing on home. lovecentralcoast.com/davistown-rsl-club-the-davo

Kincumber Post Café A unique café set in the old local post office from yesteryear, this is an ideal place to fuel up at the start of your waterside walk, with a dogfriendly, leafy courtyard and delicious brunchy menu. A ten-minute walk from the start of the Kincumber section of the walk, this cosy, community-minded spot draws in locals and visitors alike. lovecentralcoast.com/kincumber-post-cafe

Chillis Cottage Opposite the Davistown Ferry Wharf is a picturesque weatherboard cottage – the original ferryman’s cottage – serving upmarket modern Australian dishes, homemade cakes and coffee. Perfect for a relaxed finish to your waterside wander. lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/davistown/chillis-cottage

The Little Teapot Less than a minute’s walk from the Davistown Ferry Wharf, the walls of this café are home to quirky teapots and teacups, a warm and welcoming spot where locals gather over coffee, hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and high teas with freshly baked scones. lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/davistown/the-little-teapot

Kincumber Post Café

The Little Teapot

How can I help you? As the State Member for Terrigal, I'm here to serve and assist you with any state related issues you may have, such as:

Health and Hospitals

State Roads and Transport

Education and Schools

National Parks

000

Police and Emergency Services

Social Housing

My office can also assist with making representations on your behalf to the NSW Government and Central Coast Council.

Need to contact me? 02 4365 1906 terrigal@parliament.nsw.gov.au www.adamcrouchmp.com.au 148-158 The Entrance Road Erina NSW 2250

Authorised by Adam Crouch MP, Shop 3 Fountain Plaza, 148-158 The Entrance Road, Erina NSW 2250, funded using parliamentary entitlements

COAST FEATURE

TERRIGAL FORESHORE TO THE HAVEN Scenic beachfront and boardwalk stroll – approx. 3 km return.

This is the showstopper. Start among the cafés and Norfolk pines on Terrigal's esplanade, then follow the cliffside boardwalk as it hugs the land above the surf. The ocean stretches out below, waves roll in against the rocks, and before long you've arrived at The Haven – a sheltered cove that feels a world away from the village bustle. It's short, stunning and brimming with delicious eateries.

ME OD SV

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Lemmy’s Deli Best known for its generous made-to-order deli sandwiches, Lemmy's Deli also serves up Insta-worthy baked goods, specialty cloud coffees and matcha. Right on the Terrigal esplanade, it brings a vibrant mix of flavour and fun to your beachside walk. lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/terrigal/lemmys-deli-terrigal

Pocket Bar A cosy nook directly across from Terrigal beach and serving coffee by day and craft cocktails by night, plus a selection of delectable bar meals. If you’re lucky enough to snag a couch, you could find it hard to leave!

lovecentralcoast.com/pocket-bar

Coral Restaurant Ideally positioned, Coral offers fresh seafood and coastal classics with a front-row seat to the waves. A refined fine-dining stop before taking a stroll along the over-ocean boardwalk to The Haven. lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/terrigal/coral-restaurant

Terrigal Pavilion Affectionately known as ‘The Pav’, this recently opened venue brings fresh energy to one of the Coast’s most iconic beachfront spots. Located at The Haven end of the walk, you're rewarded with stunning ocean views, contemporary Australian dining and relaxed spaces made for sunset drinks or long lunches. Downstairs, The General Store offers a convenient takeaway option – perfect for coffee, beach snacks or a grab-and-go bite before scrunching your toes in the sand.

Terrigal Pavillion

lovecentralcoast.com/the-terrigal-pavilion

Amarilla

Combining the vibrant flavours of Spain with a relaxed coastal twist, Amarilla’s tapas style menu is perfect for sharing. With indoor seating and a breezy waterfront deck overlooking Terrigal Haven, it’s a milliondollar spot for laid-back bites and a well-earned drink at the end of your walk.

lovecentralcoast.com/eat-drink/terrigal/amarilla

Amarilla

COAST FEATURE

WOY WOY WHARF TO BLACKWALL FORESHORE WALK Flat, accessible foreshore path – approx. 3 km one way.

Starting at Woy Woy Wharf, the path winds through a waterfront reserve dotted with picnic tables, manicured gardens, a tidal bath and the resident pelicans who've made this stretch their own. From there, follow moored boats, salt-crusted boardwalks and quiet mangrove-lined shore all the way to Blackwall's peaceful foreshore. A locally loved, easy-going, accessible route that pairs with a morning coffee or slow weekend wander.

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Link & Pin A two-minute walk from the waterfront path, directly opposite Woy Woy train station, Link & Pin lives up to its name – a nod to connection, community and the railway history that shaped the town. Part café, part creative hub, it serves quality coffee, generous brunches and live music in a relaxed, pet-friendly courtyard that brings locals and travellers together. lovecentralcoast.com/link-and-pin-licensed-cafe

lovecentralcoast.com/the-cnr

Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf A Central Coast institution known for its market-fresh seafood and waterfront deck. Fish and chips on the wharf after a walk is practically a rite of passage!

Point Clare looking towards Woy Woy

The Cnr. Woy Woy Right in the heart of Woy Woy, no more than a minute or so from the foreshore, The Cnr is a bright, community-driven café known for its loaded gourmet toasties. With a focus on quality ingredients, housemade pastries and a relaxed neighbourhood feel, it’s perfect for a pre-walk espresso or a slow toasted brunch stop.

lovecentralcoast.com/woy-woy-fishermens-wharf

Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf

Artist Impression

TWICE AS MUCH LIFESTYLE TO LOVE

Welcome to life at Pinny Beach, where you can spend your days between leafy green streets and foam-kissed shores. Pinny Beach is a new community on the east coast of Lake Macquarie, where coastline and canopy come together. Here, generous land lots provide the flexibility to build your home your way, close to ocean beaches and the neighbouring National Park. With everyday essentials close by, this is a place designed for living well. LAND LOTS NOW SELLING

Enquire now 1800 501 900 | PinnyBeach.com.au

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COAST TO LAKE WALK – THE ENTRANCE TO TOOWOON BAY LOOP Moderate loop walk – 7.6 km.

This scenic loop connects surf and still water, winding from The Entrance foreshore to Tuggerah Lake and back via the village charm of Toowoon Bay. It's the longest walk on this list, but the changing scenery – pelicans on the lake, ocean spray on the rocks, quiet suburban streets in between – keeps it interesting. Plus, there are plenty of chances to stop for coffee, pastries and photos along the way.

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COURTESY OF FLOUR & CO

Flour & Co

Albie’s Coffee Bar, The Entrance

Flour & Co, Toowoon Bay Famous for its artisan pies, sausage rolls, pastries, burritos and quality coffee, this Toowoon Bay institution is the ideal breakfast stop before you set off. It’s worth the 10-15 minute walk to the foreshore. lovecentralcoast.com/flour-and-co

Village Kiosk Café – Toowoon Bay SLSC Just steps from the sand, Village Kiosk pairs barista coffee and fresh, beachside bites with sweeping views over Toowoon Bay. It’s relaxed, welcoming and perfectly placed for a post-swim refuel or a leisurely pause mid-walk.

lovecentralcoast.com/village-kiosk

Green Tangarine

Just a two-minute walk from the foreshore path at The Entrance is a vibrant local favourite located opposite Picnic Point Reserve and its kid-famous Pirate Playground! Albie’s is known for its smooth masterful brews and fresh toasties from its hole-in-the-wall style café. Whether you’re grabbing a takeaway before hitting the path or settling in for a snack, Albie’s delivers on flavour by the channel. lovecentralcoast.com/albies-coffee-bar

Green Tangerine, Long Jetty Located on Long Jetty’s vibrant main street, Green Tangerine is just over a five-minute detour from the Coast to Lake loop and well worth it. Known for its colourful smoothie bowls, fresh salads and nourishing café classics, it’s a bright, welcoming spot to refuel before heading back toward the lake or ocean on your mission to complete the loop.

lovecentralcoast.com/green-tangerine

Visitor tip: This list is not exhaustive with many more local eat and drink options to explore on LoveCentralCoast.com. When planning your route, always check café opening hours. Contributors: Café recommendations, Liz Ginis. Walks, Central Coast Council.

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Choosing the right retirement lifestyle – retire from chores, not from life

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From happy hour and aquarobics to contracts and capital gains, it pays to find a community that feels like you.

here are as many opinions about Over 55s and Retirement Living as there are seagulls around a beachside picnic. For some people, it’s a hotbed of socialising and convenience. Others may fear communal morning teas and neighbours who might know if you’re watching re-runs of The Golden Bachelor. Retirement living once conjured images of cloistered seniors tucked beneath knee rugs, reminiscing about Bill Hayley & His Comets, milk that was delivered in bottles to the doorstep, and that strange era before mobile phones when kids talked to each other. Today, residents are more likely to tell you how little time they have now that they’ve retired. Life can look remarkably like a resort brochure but with no children bombing the pool, and medical care reassuringly close by. Happy hour starts when ‘the sun is over the yardarm somewhere in the world’, and 5.30 or 6 pm for dinner is considered entirely civilised. Many communities offer an imaginative calendar filled with aquarobics classes, wine clubs, visiting musicians, fiercely competitive billiards, bridge, excursions and talent nights. Morning coffee time

may include cheeky recollections of first loves, travel disasters, and escapades you definitely wouldn’t tell the grandchildren. You may relish the idea of new friends, nearby neighbours and lowmaintenance living, where the living is easier on a single level, where someone else is up a ladder to change the light globe, mows the lawns and wrestles with a whipper snipper cord that has again mysteriously disappeared within itself. Others may consider the whole idea as their worst nightmare and would much rather keep to themselves. They would happily forgo the idea of a morning coffee session that could also turn into an investigative tribunal on who exceeded the speed limit in their golf cart yesterday, or the realisation that gossip travels faster than the speed of falling dominoes. There’s a time when downsizing from the family home may begin to feel right. But moving shouldn’t feel like surrender or a compromise. The important thing is to find your kind of lifestyle and at a price you can comfortably afford. That’s why it’s so important to get a genuine feel for a new

COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST COUNCIL

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community before moving in. Give it a test drive. See if you can stay in respite or guest accommodation for a short trial run. Wander around the village. Are there people about (other than, say, during the mid-afternoon snooze hour) or are they all behind closed doors? How friendly are the residents? Do they greet one another? And importantly, can you imagine yourself living there? Look closely at the activities on offer. There is little benefit in an action-packed social calendar if it makes you want to hide behind the nearest pot plant. On the other hand, a quiet community may not suit someone hoping to make friends, join clubs and receive more invitations than there are available evenings. And those are only the lifestyle considerations. It’s equally important to understand the financial and legal arrangements. It may cost less than the family home you are leaving, but retirement living can involve very different ownership structures, contracts and fees. Do you own the home but lease the land it sits on? Do you receive the capital gain – or loss – when you sell? Are there exit fees, deferred management or refurbishment costs? What on-going service charges are there, and what do they cover? On the personal level, can your four-legged best friend move in too? And what about having family or friends to stay – and for how long? What happens if your care needs change? Retirement living need not mean surrendering your independence. Done well, it can just mean shedding the chores you no longer wish to tackle. After all, you’ve earned the right to spend less time changing light globes, and considerably more time enjoying happy hour. 8

We choose to start our weekends on Thursdays, sometimes Wednesdays From the tree‑lined streets of Wyoming to the welcoming heart of Kincumber and the lakeside calm of Bonnells Bay, our three Central Coast communities — Henry Kendall Gardens, Brentwood Village, and Lakeside Retirement Village — offer a warm, connected way of living that feels naturally uplifting.

Hunter Region 82

Jordan Springs 12

Lakeside Retirement Village, Bonnells Bay

Central Coast 1 4

Henry Kendall Gardens, Wyoming 5

Brentwood Village, Kincumber

1 61

Nelsons Grove, Pemulwuy 10 M7

Make your next step a confident choice.

Ashton Gardens, East Maitland

111

Dee Why Gardens, Dee Why

Rochford Place, Ropes Crossing

Newcastle

Closebourne Village, Morpeth

Whether it’s starting your morning with a coastal walk, catching up with mates over coffee, or enjoying Scan the QR code tothe discover the lifestyle quiet comfort of your own home, eachthat's village gives you uniquely yours in NSW or ACT. space to live, breathe and belong. At Keyton, there’s no right or wrong way to retire — just West your way. And on the Central Coast, it’s easy to feel right at home. King sher Grove,

Pittwater Village, Mona Vale

8 Glenaeon, Belrose Lutanda Manor, Pennant Hills

Pac c Ocean

Sydney Sydney Airport

keyton.com.au I 1800 550 550

Little Bay Apartments, Little Bay

Wollongong 14

Annesley Bowral, Bowral

Canberra ACT 25

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Questions to ask before you make the big move: About the village/community

Care, support and security

• What do residents most often say they love about living there? • What sets it apart from others you’ve looked at? • How would you describe the overall style: affordable, luxury, lifestyle-focused, community-oriented, resort style, low maintenance, supported living, etc. • Who is eligible to live there? • Is there a waitlist, how does it work?

• What level of care or support is available: independent living only, home care services, ageing in place, emergency call systems, 24/7 nurse support? • Can residents choose their own external care providers? • What happens if a resident’s care needs increase? • Is there an aged-care facility, nursing home or higher-care option on-site or located nearby? • What security features are provided, eg gated entry, on-site manager, emergency call buttons, CCTV, overnight staff, secure parking, etc.?

Accommodation • What type of accommodation is available: villas, apartments, serviced apartments, independent-living units, serviced living, or other? • How many apartments/villas/homes in the complex? • Are one-, two- or three-bedroom options available? • Do homes include garages, carports or allocated parking?

Costs, contracts and fees • What is the current price range? • Is the accommodation rental, leasehold, strata title, freehold purchase, land lease, or other? • Can residents sell privately, or only back to the operator? • Who receives any capital gain or bears any capital loss? • Are there exit fees, deferred management fees, refurbishment charges or sales commissions? How are those fees calculated? • Are there other upfront, additional or ongoing costs? • What do the regular fees cover, eg water, Council rates, building insurance, garden maintenance, security, communal facilities, village management, emergency call systems, etc. • How often can regular fees increase? • Are there additional charges for particular facilities, activities, meals or transport? • What happens financially if the resident needs to move into aged care? • How long does repayment usually take after a resident leaves or your property is sold? • Can the full contract and disclosure documents be reviewed by an independent solicitor and financial adviser before signing?

Lifestyle and facilities • What facilities are available: heated pool, gym, bowling green, community centre, café, cinema, hair salon, library, workshop, gardens, barbecue area, social spaces, transport services, etc. • Are facilities accessible to residents with limited mobility? • What regular social activities, clubs, outings or resident events are offered? • Are pets allowed? Are there restrictions on number, size, breed, current pet only, approval needed for new new pets? • Can guest stay, and for how long? • Can family or friends stay in the home if you are travelling? • Is short-term respite or trial stay accommodation available?

Location and convenience • Which amenities are close by, eg shopping centre, medical centre, hospitals, pharmacies, cafés, restaurants, beaches, lakes, bushwalks, public transport, clubs, libraries, cinemas, community facilities, etc.? • Is parking available for residents and visitors? • Does the village provide transport to shops, appointments or activities?

Practical considerations • Are residents able to renovate, decorate or make changes to their home? • What rules apply to gardens and outdoor areas? • Are there restrictions on pets, noise, visitors, parking, caravans, boats or mobility scooters? • Can residents operate a small business from home? • Are there restrictions on renting the home or allowing another person to live there? • Who handles gardening, maintenance and waste collection? • What happens if a resident is away for an extended period? • Are meals, cleaning, laundry or other domestic services available if required? • How are complaints or disputes handled? • Have there been any recent or proposed changes to ownership, management, fees or facilities?

Before signing • Can you speak privately with several current residents? • Can you visit more than once and at different times of day? • Can you see a full calendar of recent activities? • Can you review recent fee increases and residents’ meeting minutes? • Can you take the contract away for independent legal and financial advice? • Is there a cooling-off period? • What is the process if you change your mind? • What is the best way to arrange an inspection, trial stay or further information?

Come for the steaks, stay for the atmosphere. At Railway Hotel, we’re serving up the best cuts and coldest schooners in town. Whether you're winding down after work or catching up with friends, Railway Hotel is the perfect spot to let off some steam and enjoy some seriously good food. railwayhotelgosford.com.au

EAT & DRINK

EAT & DRINK A taste of what’s changing in Gosford.

DIONYSIA, WORTHY OF THE HYPE?

hen you read a glowing restaurant review, sometimes you wonder whether it’s written by a friend of the owner. And then comes a second: ‘Best wine, best food, best waiter, best ambience, 10/10 doesn’t begin to rate it.’ Maybe, they’ve got two friends? I was tempted to check Dionysia out for myself, particularly because we keep hearing how much Mann Street is changing. If the reviews are right, here’s first-hand proof. A little hidden away, just down the road from the old council chambers, Dionysia Wine House & Restaurant is cosy and intimate, with dark green walls, sandstone, and an impressive glass-fronted wine cabinet. At the rear of this family-run restaurant, a glimpse into the kitchen shows the family at work with chef Nena and her experienced team moving around each other with practised ease. Jack, the sommelier and maitre d’, welcomes us with a glass of prosecco, followed by ‘a little something to freshen the palette’ – Saltbush and pistachio cream on crunchy seeded rostini. The wine list is exclusively NSW, and Jack is passionate about proving the state’s wines stand shoulder-to-shoulder with anything international wines may offer. It’s no surprise therefore that there is a comprehensive selection from crisp whites through to bold reds and everything in between to pair with the menu’s dishes. The food is refined without being pretentious. Perhaps because it’s a family kitchen you might even describe it as sophisticated comfort food. The pork and crackling were sheer perfection. The pairing of sashimi snapper from Terrigal with blood grapefruit was a wonderful textural and taste combination. The game crisps with native salt, and the warrigal greens with neon kale were dangerously moreish. Because the courses aren’t overbearingly large, three courses seemed entirely justifiable. An iced cheddar parfait sandwiched between wattleseed speculoos, and the Yorkshire curd tart with rhubarb and cinnamon myrtle were the perfect end to the evening. Dionysia is unlike anything in the Gosford CBD, and welcome proof of the rebirth of Mann Street. So, were those glowing reviews written by friends? If they were, we’re joining the friendship group! dionysiawinehouse.com.au

www.saddlesmountwhite.com.au

COURTESY OF HOTEL GOSFORD

EAT & DRINK

If these walls could talk For 100 years, Hotel Gosford has watched the Central Coast change around it. Along the way, it has undergone three major facelifts, and, just four years ago, reinvented itself once again. For the current owners, the Harris family, it all began in 1998. They’d been in the industry for more than two decades and weren’t really looking to buy another hotel. ‘But when we paid a visit to the Hotel Gosford, we were hooked,’ says Peter Harris. ‘We loved the history, the character and the potential.’ Today, Peter and Jane Harris’s son Jordan is at the helm. ‘When we were planning the hotel’s 100-year celebration,’ Jordan tells us, ‘I asked grandparents, parents and long-time locals what favourite dishes they remembered from their childhood, from special date nights, and from Sunday family lunches.’

The result is a nostalgic journey from the 1920s, ’70s and ’80s – think Peach Melba, Oysters Mornay, slow-cooked Corned Beef and more. From the bar, signature drinks bring a taste of nostalgia, even for those who weren’t there the first time around: Piña Coladas, Sidecars, dirty and dry Martinis, and Manhattans – because some things never go out of style. ‘Family run hotels are a dying breed,’ says Peter. ‘It’s part of what makes us feel so connected to the community, and we love that. Besides, what young 100-year-old icon doesn’t like to kick up its heels and celebrate?’ Come and taste the history that feels worthy of a year-long celebration as Hotel Gosford hails not just its past but its enduring place at the heart of Central Coast life.

Hotel Gosford: 100 years young, and just getting started.

179 Mann St, Gosford NSW 2250 hotelgosford.com.au

EAT & DRINK

THE LOFT

he Woodport Hotel in Erina has quietly become a favourite since opening early in 2026. Across three floors with Woodies basement music scene, the main-floor bistro and deck overlooking Erina Creek, and distinctive bars. Now the Woodport has added something decidedly different to the Central Coast. The Loft, a sophisticated cocktail bar, hidden away on the top floor, stays open late-late. Moody amber lighting, marble and timber finishes, comfy leather seating set the tone, helped along by cheeky signature cocktails and craft beers. On Friday and Saturday nights, live acoustic bluesy jazz adds to the ambience without intruding on conversation levels. Chef Mark Ferraro has elevated pub classics such as woodfired burrata pizzette, tostadas, chips, merguez lamb skewers and share plates. It’s comfortably stylish for a girls’ night out, and romantically cosy for a date night. And, if the mood takes you, there’s even a smoochy little dancefloor. So, if you’re not ready for the night to end, the night is still young at The Loft. Open until 4 am.

woodporthotel.com.au

COURTESY OF THE WOODPORT HOTEL

Where the wee small hours hang out

Ettalong Beach, Waterfront Reserve

RESTAURANT. BAR. BEACH KIOSK. Coffee Beach Kiosk Menu Locals’ Night Supper Club Long Lunches Grazing Feast Menu Sommelier’s Wine Selection Happy Hour Cocktail Specials Large Groups Exclusive Functions The BOX Events www.theboxonthewater.com bookings@theboxonthewater.com | 4339 3369 @thebox_ettalong

Your Herb & Spice Destination on the Central Coast Visit the Spicery at 4/25 Arizona Road Charmhaven or order online 100% natural ingredients, with no fillers or artificial additives All products vegetarian and vegan friendly High barrier, resealable packaging Tried and tested recipes on the back of every pack

www.herbies.com.au

pearlsofaustralia.com.au | 12 Kowan Road, Mooney Mooney | 0488 361 042

COAST PARTNER FEATURE

EXCLUSIVE TO CENTRAL COAST RESIDENTS – A STAYCATION IN

voco hotel, in The Archibald Precinct Whether it’s a reward for all the hard work you do. Needing a romantic weekend away. A milestone worth celebrating. Or just because. The voco Staycation Escape is a special offer exclusive to Central Coast residents. So go ahead, treat yourself to a getaway without the long drive. Michelin-trained executive chef Maxime Chasseriaud has created a fresh, modern approach to the six dining and drinking venues, including the panoramic Astra rooftop bar on Level 28, complete with Japanese-inspired menu. Or slip into holiday mode with a cocktail or mocktail at the swim-up bar. Just minutes from the Gosford waterfront, voco looks across the broad sweep of Brisbane Water, where you can watch the sailboats skim across the bay. Or watch the light change towards Lion Island from your private sanctuary. There are 130 stylish rooms to choose from, with flexible twin queen rooms, generous king rooms and spacious suites, all thoughtfully designed with coastal-inspired interiors and a choice of water or mountain views. It’s your perfect excuse to stay in, sleep late and enjoy the view. Or, definitely worth getting up for is the complimentary buffet breakfast for two in Saltfire on Level 5. With undercover parking included, all that’s left to do is check in, switch off and enjoy the delicious feeling of being away without having to fly or drive for hours.

voco Gosford 02 4327 0700 thearchibald.com.au

Your Home for Sports, Great Food, and Good Times

41 Victoria Street, East Gosford Nsw 2250 (O2) 4325 2026 Elanorahotel

WELCOME TO YOUR HOME GROUND Experience the heart of East Gosford at the Elanora Hotel, lovingly called ‘The Elly’ by locals. With two giant 5m x 3m HD screens for all major sports, it’s the perfect place to catch the game with friends or family. Savor award-winning steaks and a menu crafted by international chefs, plus a wide range of drinks to suit any occasion. Come for the game, stay for the food, and make memories at your home away from home. Welcome to The Elly!

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Where the wetlands whisper One of the Coast’s largest dairies has quietly transformed into a thriving wetland reserve – a place where birds return, bush regenerates and community care continues to shape the land.

WORDS LIZ GINIS

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here’s an almost-hush that settles over Central Coast Wetlands – Pioneer Dairy – in the early morning with birdsong skimming across open water, wind threading through young gums and cattle grazing beyond the reed beds. It’s hard to picture this 155-hectare stretch between Wyong and Tuggerah as a working farm. Today, it feels like a landscape reclaiming its wild rhythm.

A landscape reborn

Spoonbill

That return hasn’t happened by accident. Over the past six years, more than 5,000 native trees and shrubs have been planted here as part of a long-term restoration project supported by Greater Sydney Local Land Services and funded through the National Landcare Program and NSW Treasury. Winter-flowering species such as swamp mahogany and spotted gum now rise where paddocks once lay open. Around six hectares of degraded habitat have been restored, strengthening riparian corridors and improving water quality within the Tuggerah Lakes catchment. The work supports threatened species including the swift parrot and squirrel glider and builds a more resilient landscape. Volunteers, Landcare groups and schools have done the steady work of planting, weeding and monitoring. Its restoration measured not just in tree numbers, but in seasons, in patience, persistence and the slow return of life.

Dollarbirds in Bunya Pines

A sanctuary for birds and wildlife

Cattle Egrets on the wetlands

For birdwatchers, Pioneer Dairy holds quiet acclaim. More than 200 feathered species have been recorded here over time, with sightings including the powerful owl – proof that even elusive residents find refuge in these wetlands. Waterbirds gather along the shallows. Spoonbills move through the reeds. Migratory species arrive with the seasons. Woodland corridors shelter small mammals and gliders, while grazing cattle keep a thread of the site’s agricultural past woven through its present. 8

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COURTESY OF CENTRAL COAST WETLANDS

A whistling kite confronts a darter at the Dairy Swamp

Red rumped parrot

Planting the wetlands

Purple swamphen with chick

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Clearing team at work

What you can do and see

The reserve invites movement at your own pace. Wide tracks wind through grasslands and woodland edges, suited to an early morning run, a weekend wander or a quiet afternoon with binoculars in hand. The site’s 5 km parkrun draws locals each Saturday morning – runners, joggers and walkers sharing the track before the day begins. Heritage remnants of the old dairy remain scattered across the grounds. Along Pioneer Creek, sheltered pockets offer space for a picnic or simply a moment of stillness.

Facilities and access The wetlands are free to visit. In 2025, a $567,000 NSW Government-funded upgrade transformed the 1 km internal access road, replacing a long-standing single-lane gravel track with improved accessibility while supporting the return of community events. The reserve is accessed via South Tacoma Road between Wyong and Tuggerah – commonly listed as 1897 South Tacoma Road.

Culture and community These wetlands sit on Darkinjung Country, whose connection continues through bush regeneration days, habitat planting and ongoing community stewardship.

A place to slow down

Picnic cabana along Pioneer Creek

Pioneer Dairy reveals itself gradually – in the flick of a wing, the ripple of water, the winter blaze of flowering gums. It’s shaped as much by human hands as natural systems, and proof that restoration is not a single act but an ongoing commitment. Bring a picnic, lace up your shoes or simply wander. Where the wetlands whisper, the Coast feels quietly, unmistakably alive again. C facebook.com/CentralCoastWetlandsPioneerDairy

COAST LIVING

Three barns form one beautiful sense of place For architect Poppy Bevan, the inspiration for Paul and Ali Vella’s Soleil House, in Picketts Valley, began with a barn – or, more precisely, three barn-like forms. Simple in concept and rectangular in shape, the three structures now feel far removed from those beginnings, softened by natural materials, soaring interiors and carefully framed views across the valley. Rather than designing one large building, Poppy conceived the house as a series of intersecting, connected wings. Each was positioned to make the most of natural light, the surrounding gardens, elevated valley views and the sea breezes drifting inland. Owners Paul and Ali Vella came from Melbourne and fell in love with all the benefits of coastal living. Some of the state’s most beautiful beaches were close by, yet the property itself felt private and deeply immersed in a green valley that offered expansive tree and bushland views. That relationship with the landscape became central to the design. ‘We’ve built before and always played it safe, sticking to whites, creams throughout,’ says Ali. ‘For this house I wanted to have fun but not make it too polarising. We’ve used stone and wood, and fabrics that complement the valley’s greenery.’ The home unfolds naturally into a number of distinct but connected zones. 8

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In the principal north–south wing, the kitchen, dining room and main living spaces are arranged for relaxed family life. A sunken loungeroom with a soaring cathedral ceiling and exposed timber beams bring a sense of drama without losing warmth. A slowcombustion fireplace anchors the room, while broad windows draw in sunlight and turn the valley into a constantly changing backdrop.

The dining area flows seamlessly to a limestone paved terrace, where an outdoor kitchen, timber-fired pizza oven and barbecue extend everyday living into the outdoors. Running east to west, a second wing accommodates three spacious bedrooms, a family bathroom, laundry and generous storage. A sitting room sits one end of the wing, and a quiet study at the other. The layout gives everyone space to retreat or remain connected to the shared life of the house. The third wing contains the luxuriously appointed master bedroom suite beneath a lofty cathedral ceiling. A custom his-and-hers walk-in wardrobe sits easily between the bedroom and an ensuite finished in terrazzo, with a large stone topped double vanity and expansive his ’n hers walk-in shower. A private balcony overlooks the garden, creating a quiet place to pause at the beginning and end of the day. Nearby, but deftly separated, is a guest suite with en suite and its own private external entry, allowing visitors a sense of independence. Downstairs, the house becomes more playful. A large games room gives the family space to spread out, while a media room and second home office are tucked further away, providing places for concentration, retreat or the occasional noisy afternoon. 8

Discover Soleil House

COAST LIVING

That sense of ease may be Soleil House’s greatest achievement. Despite its scale, it does not feel imposing.

The home’s wellness spaces are similarly integrated into daily life rather than treated as an afterthought. A heated 10-metre selfcleaning saltwater pool leads to a spa, sauna and ice bath, creating a private place to swim, recover or simply slow down. Throughout the interiors, Ali’s eye for texture and restrained colour brings cohesion to the different spaces. ‘I’d call it coastal luxe if I had to put a name to it,’ she says. ‘As we lived there, I added pieces one at a time that complemented each other, and I feel like the overall outcome feels natural and easy. ‘I chose travertine, timber and stone for the main living areas and kitchen, alongside the sage-green cabinetry. Natural materials help ground the space.’ That sense of ease may be Soleil House’s greatest achievement. Despite its scale, it does not feel imposing. The three barn forms break the home into human-sized spaces, while the materials, windows and garden keep it closely connected to its setting. It is a house shaped not simply around rooms, but around sunlight, gentle breezes, family life and the quiet beauty of the valley beyond. C

COAST LIVING

DESIGN matter s with Studio AM Interiors

Designing a home around the things you love

any homes today feel beautifully styled and polished, yet also remarkably anonymous. In a world of design led by trends and ready access to visual inspiration, it's easier than ever to create a visually stunning home. But what's far harder, is to create something meaningful. In reality, the most memorable homes are not perfect, they are instead the ones that tell a unique story of their inhabitants. They are designed over the passage of time, filled with pieces chosen with intention, ones that are so distinctly personal they couldn’t possibly be replicated elsewhere. When you start to think about designing and decorating in this way, it becomes a much more intuitive and enjoyable process.

We are firm believers that if you fill your home with pieces that you genuinely love, they will always find a way to work together. This could be as simple as displaying a small piece of artwork from an overseas trip or perhaps incorporating antique furniture pieces that have been inherited through generations. There is a common misconception that adding antique or vintage furnishings to your home will make it feel dated. However, when layered with more structured, contemporary pieces, they provide a sense of warmth and permanence that new furniture just can’t replicate. We worked recently on a project where our clients tentatively revealed that they had piles of beautiful artwork that they had either made or collected over many years – all sitting in a stack forgotten. 8

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We insisted that we should get them reframed, regardless of how polished or ‘worthy’ of display they deemed them to be. They now hang proudly throughout the home, serving as a sentimental reminder of their creativity, past travels and the different chapters of their lives. In the same instance, they had various antique pieces that they truly adored but were unsure of how to bring them all together in a way that felt cohesive. As we explored the story behind each piece, it became clear that these items were the foundations of their home – and their lives together. From the beautiful rugs collected during travels through Turkey, to the mahogany dining table that had hosted countless family meals with their children and grandchildren, each piece was a reminder of a life well lived. When we start to design with our own unique lives in mind, all of the forgotten spaces begin to tell a story. School projects and drawings on the fridge start to feel like a natural part of the home, not a messy afterthought. Small mementos and inherited treasures naturally find their place. Our lives on the Coast are deeply personal, individual experiences – so why should our homes all look the same? C studioaminteriors.com.au

Premium engineered European oak timber flooring MADE IN EUROPE

P L AT I N U M FLOORING SOLUTIONS New showroom in The Sawmill Complex Unit 38/90-96 The Entrance Road Erina

platinumflooringsolutions.com.au 0404 100 200

COAST LIVING

A tiny rainforest behind the garden gate

WORDS LINDA ROSS PHOTOS LISA HAYMES

COAST LIVING

Richard O'Farrell amidst Boston ferns, tree ferns and calatheas.

From the street, Richard and Mandy O’Farrell’s home in Kincumber verdantly glows. Step through the gate and you’re transported into a magical world of every shade of green. The mini rainforest garden that wraps around their home is giving Daintree vibes. Immediately the air temp drops, it feels cool and humid. Birdsong filters through the foliage and the gentle sound of running water replaces the traffic outside. It is hard to believe this lush sanctuary exists on a suburban block.

Richard says his love of plants began when he was just 12 years old. Growing up in Sydney, he filled two backyard glasshouses with ferns, mosses and orchids. A kind groundsman at the Royal Botanic Gardens would quietly pass on tiny cuttings and seedlings, setting in motion a lifelong fascination with rainforest plants. When Richard and Mandy bought their Kincumber home in 1999, both the front and back yards were no more than buffalo lawn. Together they imagined something different. Over the next three decades they transformed every corner of the property into a rich layered rainforest, with Mandy helping guide the planting palette and overall design while Richard happily immersed himself in the collecting, propagating and constant tinkering. The towering upper canopy is formed by Bangalow palms that Richard grew from seed. Now reaching towards 20 metres, they cast dappled shade across the garden below, creating a microclimate that can feel five to ten degrees cooler than the street outside. Underneath, tree ferns unfurl graceful fronds in every direction. Richard is obsessed with Cyathea cooperi, the Australian tree fern. Over the years he has propagated more than 50 from spores collected beneath mature fronds. Growing tree ferns, this way requires remarkable patience. From spores so tiny that they are almost invisible, to the magnificent plants that now adorn his garden. I look closer. Almost everything in the understorey grows in pots. I wondered why. Richard smiled as he explained that containers allow him to constantly reinvent the garden. Plants can be moved, new combinations created and the whole space refreshed whenever inspiration strikes. It is a living canvas that is always evolving. It's brilliant! The understorey is a tapestry of lush foliage. Right species of 8 different Calatheas weave between clivias, maidenhair ferns, The fuchsia garden path collection alongside flowering perennials.

Dichondra grass 'lawn', ornamental banana trees, tree ferns, golden cane palms and Bangalow palms.

COAST LIVING

Flowering begonias.

Giant fig.

Calatheas.

COAST LIVING

Unfurling tree fern.

Bromeliad growing on a tree fern.

Boston ferns and ornamental bananas, while orchids and other epiphytes cling to tree trunks. More than 200 impatiens bring flashes of colour through the sea of green. Pebbled pathways meander beneath the canopy, inviting you to wander barefoot while geckoes, frogs, lizards and birds quietly go about their day. Every window of the house looks out to this living landscape. Enticing you outside, inviting you to sit beneath the palms and listen to the water. For Richard, this garden is so much more than beautiful. Living with bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety and Asperger’s syndrome, he has spent much of his life discovering what keeps him grounded. Gardening, alongside surfing, has become his therapy. During difficult periods, the familiar rhythm of watering, pruning, repotting and caring for plants provides purpose and calm. Seven discreet water features bubble quietly throughout the garden, adding another layer of tranquillity. As I leave, Richard presses a potted Calathea orbifolia into my hands, a generous gift that will always remind me of this pocket rainforest and Richard's dedication and passion to growing from seed. The moment I step back through the gate, the afternoon heat wraps around me. I hadn’t realised just how cool the garden was until I left it. In the space of a few steps, I had travelled from a humid rainforest to a hot suburban street. Richard is quick to say the garden isn’t about him. ‘I’d love people to see what’s possible,’ he tells me. ‘If everyone created their own little piece of paradise, we’d all be helping to cool the planet.’ Standing on the footpath, looking back I couldn’t agree more. C See Richard's work richardofarrell.com

COAST FEATURE

Want eco-friendly land clearing? Who you gonna call? Goatsbusters. WORDS SUZY JARRATT PHOTOS DENNY WOODS

Janice, the Australian Miniature goat who’s more interested in people than being a goat.

COAST FEATURE

ay goodbye to the mower, skip the weed killer and park the brush cutter. When it comes to clearing scrub in a more natural, low-impact way, Denny Woods has a considerably cuter and eco-friendly solution: simply hire some goats. From his property at Ourimbah, Denny runs a four-legged landclearing crew that’s as hardworking as it is environmentally friendly. His goats are used to tackle overgrown blocks, unwanted brush and fire-prone vegetation, munching their way through thick growth while leaving root systems intact – a big plus when it comes to helping prevent soil erosion. ‘In Europe, Canada and the States they’re used extensively in hazard reduction,’ Denny says. ‘Eight years ago, during the serious bushfires here, I decided to do something similar.’ Today, Denny has more than 100 grazing goats of different breeds and sizes, with numbers set to grow. ‘We’ll have more later in the year as we’ve just put one of our bucks out with 15 does, who have often given birth to twins.’ His land-clearing teams include Rangelands, Anglo-Nubians, Toggenburgers, Boers and Nigerian Dwarves. They travel to jobs in a trailer, often with portable fencing or panels to keep them safely contained within the work site. Once they arrive, the goats settle in quickly, spending their day happily browsing, nibbling and chewing their way through weeds, scrub and unwanted growth. And while they’re diligent workers, they’re also unmistakably goats. If they spot a pile of rocks, a log or even a chair, chances are they’ll climb on it for a well-earned break – it’s in their DNA. ‘New crew members might be unsure of the trailer, so I lift them in with a handful of grain,’ says Denny. ‘After a couple of days, they realise what’s happening and just jump in like the others. ‘Goats are highly intelligent — and they do enjoy their work. ‘Except for little Janice.’ Gwando is a Nigerian Dwarf-cross goat who doesn't let size get in the way of reaching tall treats.

Little Favourite and her protective mum are Boer-cross goats.

Every workplace has one character who refuses to follow their job description, and at Coast to Coast Goats, that character is Janice. An Australian miniature brown goat with a black face, Janice is less interested in tackling scrub and more interested in being adored. She has only two goat friends, no great passion for vegetation management and a strong belief that she belongs indoors – with humans. ‘She’ll sit at a customer’s door and call out until she’s let in,’ says Denny. For the most part, though, Denny’s animals get along well with one another and with people – although there have been the occasional ‘oops’ moments. ‘Years ago, one of the crew unexpectedly butted a public servant in the bottom,’ Denny says with a laugh. ‘That was Owen — the goat, not the public servant — and thankfully he’s mellowed as he got older.’ On some jobs, the mobile teams are sheep, particularly where the task is more about grass mowing than scrub clearing. Denny has Suffolks with black faces, Poll Dorsets, white-faced Cheviots and a fat-tailed sheep among his woollier workers. ‘All do good work and are well behaved,’ he says. For Denny, the business is about more than just practical land management. ‘Everything we do with the animals here is so environmentally friendly,’ he says. There is another side to the business too. Through Livestock 4 Learning, Denny provides animals to schools for short- and long-term agricultural programs, helping students get hands-on experience with livestock and a better understanding of farming. Coast to Coast Goats Fire Hazard Reduction Services, Ourimbah It’s the G.O.A.T. in hazard reduction. C

Behind the gates of SWEETWATER, Hunter Valley Your grand Italianate destination awaits

DESTINATIONS

DESTINATIONS HUNTER VALLEY

LEFT Sweetwater private residence. RIGHT View from the Wedding Suite.

BELOW The manager's residence, the Gatehouse guest accommodation.

he Hunter Valley has no shortage of beautiful, architecturally designed wineries and luxurious country retreats. What you may not expect to find, however, is a remarkable private property, grand in scale and defined by a sense of luxury – an Italianate Downton Abbey – and perhaps castle is not too grand a word. Known as Sweetwater, it rises from the landscape in Tuscan tones of terracotta and weathered stone that seem to carry the age of centuries beneath the strong Australian sun. Around it, stretch sweeping rural vistas, mature olive groves and its own cultivated vineyard. Construction for a weekend villa began in the early 2000s, for which Sweetwater’s original owner painstakingly sourced ancient stonework from the crumbling castles and grand villas of France, as well as tiles, reclaimed wood and masonry, and even copper piping. Light fittings, marble basins and terracotta tiles were directly sourced from antique dealers and country markets in France and Italy. The antique wrought iron gates to the castle came from a castle in Germany. All were shipped to Australia to build his dream retreat. Italianate archways, vaulted ceilings, Doric columns and Juliet balconies were inspired by centuries-old southern European country manors. Cobblestone flooring was laid in the cellar, French oak parquetry in the bedrooms. A mile-long driveway leads to a formal entry courtyard and an aged iron gateway, so narrow that a modern car needs to slow to a snail’s crawl in order to avoid sacrificing their side mirrors. The reason behind this, of course, is to prevent the ancient hoards from storming the castle in large numbers.

The 48-hectare property encompasses a 16-hectare vineyard, first planted in 1829. Renowned winemaker Brian McGuigan lent his considerable expertise to the planting of its more recent vines in the estate’s prized terra rossa and limestone soils. Today, Sweetwater Estate is best known for its hand-picked plantings of Shiraz, Cabernet, Semillon, Mataro and Touriga. Although the grand manor is part of the private estate, we mere mortals may now pass through its gates – by invitation or appointment – to the smaller, but equally resplendent and quite separate Gatehouse guest accommodation, and a wine cellar converted to a chapel. The private grand manor courtyard

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DESTINATIONS HUNTER VALLEY

The chapel still has the original wine cellar beneath it.

The carved limestone bath in the Wedding Suite.

The Wedding Suite.

and grounds are accessible to couples holding their wedding at Sweetwater, but the residence itself remains private.

Muse at Sweetwater

Troy Rhoades-Brown the chef and owner behind the acclaimed Muse Restaurant in Pokolbin, is host to destination weddings and bespoke events at Sweetwater – only offered on a limited number of occasions each year, with the next bookings opening in September 2026. Driven by an unwavering love for the region’s food and wine, no one is more suited than Troy to bring his culinary expertise and sense of occasion to such a unique setting. Sweetwater Estate provides the backdrop: private, authentically European, a place apart. Muse adds the finishing touches: not only the menu, the service, the care and attention to detail, Troy has also reimagined the former wine cellar into a chapel filled with the warm aroma of oak. Upstairs is a lavish wedding suite complete with a bath carved from a single piece of limestone. Nearby, the manager’s Italianate residence has been transformed into elegant guest accommodation. Beyond, a tranquil lake is home to a nesting black swan, a particularly protective goose, herons and cormorants. A sandstone amphitheatre awaits the strains of a string quartet or orchestra, and behind the chapel Troy has created a levelled platform where a marquee can rise for a wedding celebration or banquet. It is a setting with the grandeur of another age, brought to life with the food, wine and gracious hospitality for which Muse is renowned. C Muse at Sweetwater, Pokolbin museatsweetwater.com.au

DESTINATIONS HUNTER VALLEY

The Sweetwater Chapel.

YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL DESTINATION SPECIALISTS TIKKA TOURS

THE TRAVELLERS HUT

LUXURY ROYAL RAJASTHAN & HOLI

SOUTHERN VIETNAM & CAMBODIA

Discover our fully escorted, small group journeys (maximum 12 travellers) through India or Vietnam. Tailor made by our destination specialists, Claudia and Glenn, with over 35 years of first-hand experience. Join Claudia in March 2027 to experience the splendours of Rajasthan India on Luxury Royal Rajasthan & Holi festival. Stay in handpicked heritage and palace hotels. In September 2027 join Glenn in Vietnam for Southern Vietnam & Cambodia, highlighting the Mekong & the temples of Angkor, staying in luxury hotels & resorts. Both journeys feature fabulous cuisine and amazing enhanced experiences, whilst steering clear of mainstream tourism where possible. Contact us for details of our entire range of 2027 departures. TIKKA TOURS 0466 910 067 claudia@tikkatours.com.au www.tikkatours.com.au

THE TRAVELLERS HUT 0408 631 695 glenn@thetravellershut.com.au 5a 39 Avoca Drive Kincumber

Taking you places in luxury your way 65

COAST PARTNERSHIP FEATURE

WELL BEING ‘‘I can follow conversations now – I wish I’d done this sooner’’ Getting the fit right

t's a sentence Kris Robinson, a qualified audiologist with 28 years in the profession has heard countless times, and one that comes, not on the day the client gets their hearing aids fitted, but weeks later after a family dinner where they have actually followed the conversation, or after a phone call where they didn't have to ask anyone to repeat themselves. It also speaks to something universal about hearing loss: it rarely arrives all at once. It creeps in quietly. The television gets a little louder. Busy restaurants become a little more tiring. Conversations take a little more effort. And because the change is so gradual, it's easy to put off doing anything about it until someone else notices first.

When your hearing starts to change After 13 years working in Perth, Kris returned to his hometown with his family and rented a single professional room in a medical centre. More than ten years on, it has grown into a purpose-built Focus Hearing clinic in the heart of Erina, right next door to Service NSW. ‘Being independent, means that we are not aligned with a particular hearing aid manufacturer,’ Kris explains. ‘So, every person who sees us has real choice, and if we're recommending a particular hearing aid, it's because we believe it's the right one for them, not because it’s a particular brand.’

Choosing a hearing aid is only the beginning. How carefully it is fitted and fine-tuned by Kris and his team can make a considerable difference to how well it works in everyday life. Focus Hearing rigorously follows Audiological Best Practice which includes using real-ear measurement (REM) as part of every fitting, measuring precisely what the hearing aid is actually delivering inside the ear so it can be fine-tuned to the individual prescription. ‘Every adjustment is grounded in evidence,’ says Kris. ‘And every outcome is measured against what actually helps. Hearing is paired with speech and aided testing, validated outcome measures and detailed verification.’ Support from Kris and his team continues after the initial fitting, with regular cleaning and servicing, annual hearing reviews, and adjustments whenever they're needed. ‘We want to make sure people are supported not just when they first receive their hearing aids,’ Kris says. ‘That continues throughout the time they're wearing them.’

Sometimes, it’s also about ear health Sometimes the culprit is as simple as excess earwax and the clinic also offers medical hearing assessments, earwax microsuction and specialty earmould fittings. Microsuction offers a gentle, water-free way to remove earwax, while a thorough ear examination can help determine whether wax build-up is behind hearing issues or whether something else warrants further investigation. ‘Don’t necessarily dismiss hearing loss as simply getting older,’ Kris says. ‘They're changes worth having checked.’

The words Kris hears most often After nearly three decades in the profession, what makes Kris proudest isn't a single success story, but something that's built quietly over years. ‘I am most proud that the majority of our new clients have come to us through recommendations from friends who we have helped over the years, from people who've experienced the difference themselves.’ ‘I wish I did this sooner,’ they tell Kris most often.. Focus Hearing's new Erina clinic is located next to Service NSW. To book a hearing assessment, visit: www.focushearing.com.au or call (02) 8402 1202

WELL BEING

LOVE LOCAL

Shop online activatefoods.com.au

Open 7 days a week Shop 2/222 The Entrance Rd, Erina

BiLLi the Salon, East Gosford Where great hair gets personal

BiLLi the Salon founder, Elly Hanson is passionate about cutting hair – crafting its shape, texture and movement in a way that reflects your personality and the way you live. Every visit begins with a personalised consultation, whether you already know exactly what you want or are looking for a little guidance, and whether it’s your first appointment or you’re already a regular. From a refreshing wash and flawless blow wave to soft textured waves, an elegant up-style, a colour refresh or a cut full of movement, Elly and her team love nothing better than helping you find a style that feels like you. Or even finding the inner you in a complete hairstyle transformation. The salon itself is a creative, light-filled sanctuary designed to make you feel relaxed and just a little pampered – somewhere to switch off, unwind and emerge feeling more confident about both how you look to the world and feel within yourself.

7/78 York Street, East Gosford 0483 791 237 billi-thesalon.com.au

COAST VIBES

MAKING THEIR MARK

2026 GOSFORD ART PRIZE FINALISTS

COURTESY OF BRETT EAST

The Gosford Regional Gallery received a record 1,518 entries from across Australia for this year’s much anticipated Gosford Art Prize. From these, 148 outstanding finalists have been selected. Here’s just a preview, including several Central Coast artists in the frame.

Brett East, photographer Brett is a Gosford-based multi-disciplinary artist working across painting, drawing, photography and digital imaging. His work has been widely exhibited and is held in the collection of the Art Gallery of NSW, as well as various private collections nationally and internationally. His entry, These Fragile Traces Speak of Fleeting Presence, Edition 1 of 20, is an archival Chromaluxe 7-channel dyesublimation print on metal.

COURTESY OF CLAIRE TOZER

COAST VIBES

Claire Tozer, drawing

Peter Steggle, ceramics

COURTESY OF ELVIS RICHARDSON

Umina potter, Peter Steggle creates functional and decorative ceramics and teaches at Centered Ceramics in Umina. His home studio occupies the lower floor of his house, while his kilns and a glaze shed safely positioned at the bottom of his garden. His entry, titled Gravimorphea, is worked in raku clay with various shino glazes, found glass and shells.

COURTESY OF PETER STEGGLE

This Yattalunga linear artist is known for her intricate mark-making, often building dense layers of ink, pastel and watercolours in abstract, repetitive patterns. She won first prize in the 2022 Gosford Art Prize, and her work is exhibited by Bloomfield Art Gallery in Terrigal. Her entry, Network, is created with pigment ink and pen on paper.

Elvis Richardson, sculpture Sydney born Elvis Richardson, lives in Melbourne and works across a variety of media. She uses formalism and satire to expose the contradictions of our modern, highly commodified lives. Her series, Settlement, features modified gates exploring different meanings and associations of the word ‘settlement’. Her work is held in the collections of the National Gallery of Victoria, the Art Gallery of NSW and other state and regional galleries. Her entry is titled, Settlementish #1, 2025, is made from bent mild steel finished in heritage brown powder coat,

COURTESY OF LOTTIE CONSALVO

COAST VIBES

Lottie Consalvo, acrylic on canvas Melbourne-born artist, Lottie Consalvo lives and works in Newcastle. Her paintings explore tensions between body and mind, between lived and processed experience, delving into the primal realms of memory and imagination. She works across painting, performance, video and sculpture. Lottie has been exhibited internationally while, closer to home, her work is held in the Newcastle Art Gallery collection. Her entry is titled, Night Worshipping.

Brian Robinson, vinyl cut print

COURTESY OF BRIAN ROBERTSON

Originally from Thursday Island, Brian Robinson now lives and works in Cairns. His Islander heritage informs much of his art, although studying art history at high school led to an enduring interest in Renaissance art and cultural mythology. He says he often explores concepts and themes that ‘remove me from Indigenous arts practice’. His work spans painting, printmaking, sculpture and design. His entry is titled, The Final frontier Adds Another Test, For Slaves and Indians Headed Towards the West, Another Showdown, So Don’t Put Your Gun Away, You Start Shooting Like Your Name was Doc Holliday.

COURTESY OF DAMIEN SHEN

COAST VIBES

Damien Shen, moving image Damien Shen’s art is influenced by his Ngarrindjeri and Chinese heritage. His work continually constructs and deconstructs issues, people, places and stories that shape his ideas of Australian identity and Aboriginal art. He is represented by Mars Gallery, Windsor, Victoria. His entry is a digital moving image titled, My Cuzzy Nate and the 654 Club.

GOSFORD ART PRIZE 2026

Gosford Regional Gallery & Edogawa Commemorative Garden MAIN GALLERY: Gosford Art Prize 2026 26 September – 15 November 2026 The Gosford Art Prize is an annual award that attracts entries from across Australia. The finalist exhibition and opening night is the biggest event held at the Gallery each year. The Prize is open to all Australian artists working in any medium and attracts submissions that show a breadth of artistic excellence and display a diverse array of contemporary techniques and conceptual concerns.

Gosford Regional Gallery 36 Webb Street, East Gosford, New South Wales, 2250 Image: Gosford Art Prize 2025, photo credit WolfeWise Creative

www.gosfordregionalgallery.com 02 4304 7550 Open 9:30am - 4pm daily closed Good Friday.

COAST VIBES

Impressions of Country

Cheryl McCoy’s art of connection WORDS SUZY JARRATT Cheryl McCoy’s workbench benches bristle with neglected mugs of tea and forgotten biscuits. The prize-winning Kariong artist is totally immersed in the world of printmaking, and once she begins working, almost everything else disappears. ‘I start with an image in my head, then I work backwards to how I’m going to make it,’ says Cheryl. ‘There are multiple processes.’ Printmaking is an art that has existed for thousands of years, beginning with hand stencils early humans left on cave walls. It later evolved through ancient China into woodblock printing, and across the centuries into the many techniques used by artists today. Briefly, it’s the process of creating artwork by transferring images from a prepared surface – such as wood, metal or stone – onto

another material, usually paper or fabric. The explanation may sound simple, but the process itself can be quite complex. Cheryl’s love for art goes back to her time at Ashcroft high school, near Liverpool. ‘I had a teacher who introduced us to ceramics, sculpture, painting, drawing and printmaking,’ she says. ‘She was brilliant and inspirational.’ After art school Cheryl pursued screen printing and textile art. Today, her work reflects her Indigenous heritage and her continuing search for cultural connection. Many of her pieces have received awards and recognition. ‘My history is black and white,’ she explains from her Kariong studio. ‘My father’s heritage was Scottish and Irish, and my mother was Aboriginal. But it was a family secret.’

COAST VIBES

LEFT Cheryl with her 2021 Gosford Art Prize. RIGHT Waddaigangai Goolgul GAP24 BELOW Ancestors Surround Us

Cheryl’s mother didn’t experience her connection to Country until later in life, when the family travelled out west through Coonabarabran, Wellington, Dubbo and Warren. ‘She met locals who would ask, “What mob do you belong to?” She was able to talk to them about what she wanted to discover and who her people were. ‘And I wanted to explore and make connections too. There’s a lot of energy in Country, and you have to know how to feel it.’ Cheryl was recently shortlisted for South Australia’s prestigious Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize, which celebrates work at the intersection of nature, science and art. Her piece, ‘Lives Stilled … A Lingering Memory’ hangs in the South Australian Museum. ‘I like to do work involved with Aboriginal women, celebrating what they’ve done over the millennia,’ says Cheryl, who has several exhibitions planned for later in the year. She has also been invited to participate as a printmaker with The Parramatta Female Factory, contributing to a project that preserves and shares women’s stories through art. The coming months promise to be a busy time for this accomplished Kariong printmaker. And, as new works steadily emerge from her studio, the tea and biscuits are likely to remain forgotten. C Cheryl McCoy is a member of the Makers Studio Central Coast Inc. 8 Russell Drysdale St, East Gosford

OUT & ABOUT

Spring on the Coast: time to dust off your creative spirit, and follow the fun. WORDS LIZ GINIS

Perhaps because so many artistic people call the Coast home that this spring season offers something to reach into every corner of your senses: whether it’s music, art, theatre, cheeky cabaret, food & wine from creative chefs, or the simple pleasure of messing around in small – and historic – boats and, above all, plenty of family fun.

SEPT

SYMPHONY CENTRAL COAST – SHINING STAR Gosford Regional Library Auditorium

GOSFORD ART PRIZE Gosford Regional Gallery

Every spring, the Gosford Art Prize reminds us that the Coast has more to offer than a picture-perfect beach view. This year's collection is no exception. The region's most celebrated cultural event returns with a rich mix of contemporary works: paintings, photography, sculpture and mixed media from artists emerging, established and everywhere in between. Wander Gosford Regional Gallery, lose an hour in the Japanese gardens and leave with an opinion or two.

This spring afternoon features 2025 Concerto Competition winner Elana Sydenham performing Taffenel's dazzling Fantasy on Der Freischutz, alongside Dvorak's warmly melodic Eighth Symphony, Bizet's Carmen Suite and Australian composer Jessica Wells' Uplift. Elegant, local and done by teatime, this one's hard to argue with.

SEPT 26 TO NOV 15

Info/tickets: symphonycentralcoast.com.au

COASTAL TWIST FESTIVAL

OCT

THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO PAUL Laycock Street Community Theatre

Jonathan Biggins pulls on the RM Williams and steps into the extraordinary, never-less-than-quotable life of Paul Keating, and the result is pure theatrical gold. Sharp, funny, unexpectedly moving and absolutely relentless, this one-man show is part history lesson, part masterclass and entirely unmissable. Come for the politics. Stay for the eyebrows.

A week of cabaret, comedy, music, theatre and pure, unfiltered joy… Coastal Twist is the Central Coast's most gloriously colourful cultural event. Venues across the region come alive with glitter, laughter and performances that make you think as much as they make you smile. First-timer or festival faithful, there's a seat (or a dance floor) with your name on it.

SEPT 29 TO OCT 4

gosfordregionalgallery.com/page/gosford-art-prize

coastaltwist.org.au

laycockstreettheatre.com

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OUT & ABOUT

OCT

KATE CEBERANO – AUSTRALIAN MADE TOUR The Art House, Wyong

OCT

MUSIC IN THE ARBORETUM – HITS OF 1976 Pearl Beach Arboretum

There are Australian music icons, and then there's Kate Ceberano. This special tour draws on a career that has somehow only gotten better with time with beloved hits, extraordinary storytelling and vocals that still make you hold your breath. If you need a reminder of what a genuinely great live performer looks like, here it is.

ABBA. Fleetwood Mac. Boz Scaggs. Towering trees. A picnic rug. A spring afternoon in the Pearl Beach Arboretum. Honestly, what more do you need? This outdoor concert is one of the most genuinely lovely ways to spend a Saturday on the Coast. Pack well, arrive early and let 1976 work its magic.

thearthousewyong.com.au

pearlbeacharboretum.org.au/events

OCT

CHROMEFEST The Entrance

The Entrance goes full Americana for one glorious October weekend, as ChromeFest rolls into town with gleaming classic cars, hot rods, rock'n'roll, live music and enough pompadours to fill a barbershop calendar. Whether you know your '57 Chevy from your Ford F-100 or simply love a great atmosphere, this one's hard to walk away from, and even harder to stop talking about.

23-25

lovecentralcoast.com/chromefest

NOV

OCT

PEARL BEACH FOOD & WINE FARE Pearl Beach Memorial Hall

Fine wine, gourmet food and a relaxed village atmosphere come together at the 19th annual Pearl Beach Food & Wine Fare. This much-loved community event showcases boutique wines from the Hunter and beyond alongside artisan producers offering everything from awardwinning cheeses and olives to handmade chocolates, local honey, gluten-free treats and fermented foods. Come for the tastings, stay for the stunning surroundings, with Broken Bay, Brisbane Water National Park and the Pearl Beach Arboretum all on the doorstep. A hamper raffle, affordable café-style lunches and plenty of local charm make this one of spring's most delicious days out.

THE LAKES FESTIVAL

Ten days. Dozens of events. One spectacular stretch of coastline, waterways and open sky. The Lakes Festival is a full-scale celebration of the outdoor life that defines the Central Coast – live music, family activities, environmental experiences and enough sunshine (fingers crossed) to remind you why you live here. Clear the diary. Dust off the kayak. Get amongst it.

6-15

lovecentralcoast.com/lakesfestival

pearlbeachprogress.org.au

OUT & ABOUT

NOV

BREW-B-Q The Entertainment Grounds

NOV

DAVISTOWN PUTT PUTT REGATTA & WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL

The humble putt-putt boat takes centre stage at one of the region's most endearing local traditions: beautifully restored wooden vessels, waterfront market stalls, live entertainment, vintage machinery and a crowd that genuinely loves this stuff. A reminder that the best community events are always a little wonderfully peculiar.

theentertainmentgrounds.com.au

davistownputtputt.com

Craft beer. Aromatic smoke. Live music. The only real question is whether you're a brisket or a pulled pork person … and fortunately, BREW-B-Q gives you the opportunity to settle the debate properly. Arrive hungry, stay as long as your stomach allows.

NOV

SYMPHONY CENTRAL COAST – COSMOS Gosford Regional Library Auditorium

To mark humanity's return to the moon in 2026, Symphony Central Coast turns its gaze skyward for a concert that reaches well beyond the stratosphere. Kaija Saariaho's Asteroid 4179: Toutatis is inspired by the asteroid that makes uncomfortably close passes to Earth. It sits alongside Jess Montgomery's vivid, colour-saturated Starburst. Celestial drama, outstanding playing.

Info/tickets: symphonycentralcoast.com.au

GOURMET PICNIC RIDE

SELECTED Glenworth Valley Wilderness Adventures 5 & 19 Sept, 17 Oct, 14 & 28 Nov 2026 DATES

Swap the screen for a saddle and head into the bush. This guided horse ride winds through the spectacular bushland of Glenworth Valley before arriving at a secluded gourmet picnic that makes every minute in the saddle worthwhile. Adventure and indulgence in one tidy package.

CENTRAL COAST FARMERS MARKET Bringing together fresh local produce, artisan pastries, locally roasted coffee, gourmet eats and a great selection of brunch options. Enjoy live music, meet local growers and makers, and stock up on quality food to take home. With a relaxed, familyfriendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect Sunday stop for locals and visitors exploring the Central Coast. Sundays 7 am to12 pm | Gosford Showground.

glenworth.com.au

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OUT & ABOUT

PLANT LOVERS FAIR 2026, September 19, 20 The Plant Lovers Fair returns with more than 30 specialist exhibitors bringing together an irresistible collection of rare, unusual and hard-to-find plants – many of them varieties you’re unlikely to stumble across at your local nursery. It’s part treasure hunt, part gardening inspiration and a very real test of how much room is left in the car. Much-loved gardening personality Costa Georgiadis is again joining the 2026 fair as special guest. But more than anything, it’s a celebration of the people who love growing things and the specialist growers who keep unusual varieties in cultivation, sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm along the way. Plant Lovers Fair 2026 Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September Kariong Mountains High School, Central Coast NSW Adults $15 | Under 18s free | Coach groups $13 | Weekend pass $22 Tickets and more information: plantloversfair.com.au

COAST FAMILIES Motherhood is wild, wonderful and, at times, wildly lonely WORDS KAY FISHER

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COAST FAMILIES

One minute you’re the centre of a tiny person’s universe. The next, you’re wondering when you last had an adult conversation that didn’t involve Bluey, lunchboxes or the mystery of missing socks. This is for you. SOCIAL MUMMA

Long lunches, loud laughs and absolutely no highchairs in sight. When Social Mumma’s founder moved from Rose Bay to Terrigal with an 18‑month‑old on her hip, she suddenly found herself without a local friendship circle. In a moment of ‘it can’t just be me,’ she posted in a local mums’ Facebook group asking whether anyone else felt lonely, and whether there might be interest in a monthly, kid‑free long lunch. Women flooded the comments. From that one post, Social Mumma was born. Most women didn’t know a soul the first time they walked in. Within minutes they realised everyone is there for the same reason – and equally nervous. There’s no judgment, no cliques and no ‘What are you wearing?’ panic. Just a relaxed, kind room of women who may also have Googled ‘How to make friends as a mum on the Central Coast’ at 2 am. Instagram.com/social.mumma facebook.com/social.mumma2260 socialmumma.my.canva.site/home

STRONG MUMS

COURTESY OF STRONG MUMS

Burpees, prams, pelvic floors and proper support. For many women the ‘all clear’ from the six-week postnatal check doesn’t feel clear at all. You’re told you can exercise again but not how. Your body feels unfamiliar. Your core is different, your pelvic floor is a mystery, and the idea of rocking up to a regular bootcamp is, frankly, horrifying. Strong Mums exists in that gap. Created by a local mum Louise, Strong Mums offers specialised fitness coaching through every stage of motherhood, from outdoor group training sessions, online classes and one-on-one training for women who want or need more tailored support. Concerns about prolapse, abdominal separation, leaking, injury, low confidence or simply not recognising themselves anymore, quietly kept women away from generic gyms or any exercise entirely. Strong Mums meets all of that with evidence-based knowledge and genuine lived empathy. Louise is a MumSafe™ Trainer and a Pregnancy & Postnatal Corrective Exercise Specialist, so sessions are programmed with deep understanding of how pregnancy and birth impact the body. There’s something wonderfully bonding about doing squats with other women while tiny humans nap in prams nearby. Some women come for the workout, but what keeps them coming back is often the woman next to them saying, ‘Oh my gosh, my baby was also up every hour last night,’ or, ‘Yes, I’m terrified of running again too.’ There is no expectation that you’ll arrive in coordinated activewear, with clean hair and a full night’s sleep. Babies grizzle. Toddlers wander through the middle of lunges. Mums stop mid-set to feed, cuddle or wipe a nose.

If you’re thinking you need to get fitter before you can join, Strong Mums would like you to know, that’s not how this works. You don’t have to look like your pre‑baby self. You can show up exhausted, anxious, uncoordinated and unsure. That’s why they’re there. strongmums.com Instagram and Facebook at @strongmumsgosford

COURTESY OF THE VILLAGE COLLECTIVE

COAST FAMILIES

THE VILLAGE COLLECTIVE The health hub for when you need more than a coffee and a cry in the car. The Village Collective is a modern reimagining of the old-fashioned village our grandmothers always talked about. Founded by two Central Coast mums, Harriet and Kathryn, it’s tucked away at Ettalong Beach and now also at Erina, it’s a holistic hub for mothers, babies and children, Walk through their doors and you’ll find more than 20 allied health, mental health and wellness practitioners under one roof. Harriet is a lactation consultant and midwife. Kathryn is a full spectrum doula and birth educator. Alongside them are chiropractors, counsellors, myotherapists, speech pathologists and other professionals offering breastfeeding help, bodywork, mental health support and early childhood services in one welcoming space. The Village Collective also offers baby classes, workshops, community programs and its signature Mothers’ Groups where the ‘village’ aspect really comes to life. Each group is intentionally intimate, capped at 10 women. Over six weeks, the same mums come together regularly to learn from different practitioners, share stories, and drink hot tea or coffee. There’s practical information – feeding, sleep, development, mental health – and just as much space for the messy, honest conversations. If you’re feeling isolated, buried under the mental load, or tired of pretending that you’re fine when you’re not, The Village Collective says clearly and unapologetically that mothers deserve support: practical, emotional, physical and social.

COURTESY OF SMOCC

thevillagecollective.com.au @the.village.collective

SYDNEY MUMS ON THE CENTRAL COAST (SMOCC) Your digital village when you’ve packed up your life and moved to the Coast. Not every mum on the Central Coast is raising kids in the suburb she grew up in. Increasingly, families are leaving Sydney for the lifestyle and affordability of the Coast – often without a single family member or old friend nearby. Then the babies arrive, and the dream seachange can suddenly feel a lot lonelier. Sydney Mums on the Central Coast started as a simple online space for mums and families and has grown into a trusted, one stop platform helping families figure out where to even begin when they don’t yet know the Coast. You’ll find threads on schools, childcare centres that actually have spots and which restaurants and cafés are genuinely family friendly. There are recommendations for playgrounds, rainy day activities, kids’ sport and classes, local services, events, playgroups and mum-focused communities across the region. Need a paediatric dentist? A vet? A decent hairdresser who won’t judge you for the state of your regrowth? Chances are someone in SMOCC has a suggestion, a story and sometimes even a discount code. It’s also where many mums begin building their ‘village’ before they’ve even unpacked the moving boxes. A simple post – ‘We’ve just moved to Wamberal from the Inner West, I don’t know anyone, any tips?’ – can bring dozens of comments, local insights, coffee invitations and reassurance that you’re not the only one starting again. It’s where friendships start with a simple, ‘We’re at this park today if anyone wants to join,’ and gradually turns into regular catch ups and real-life support.. sydneymumsonthecentralcoast.com.au

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COAST FAMILIES

Here on the Central Coast, we think you’ll find your village may be closer than you think.

FIRE AND FLOUR DAVISTOWN Although you’ll find a range of welcoming kid-friendly restaurants and cafés on our website (coastmagazine.com.au) we all know how challenging dining out with children can be, which is exactly what inspired the Flour Garden at the new Fire and Flour restaurant. Perched on the beautiful Davistown waterfront, Fire and Flour is much more than your local Italian restaurant. Already rapidly becoming known for quality food, relaxed coastal atmosphere and family-friendly approach, it's also become a favourite for locals wanting to enjoy great dining without leaving the kids behind. The thoughtfully designed outdoor space features a dedicated playground, kids' activities and communal seating under twinkling garland lights, creating an inviting setting. Add regular family-friendly events, somewhere the kids can play while parents settle in for woodfired pizza, a cocktail, and a rare chance to enjoy a conversation that might actually make it from start to finish. Instagram and Facebook: @fire_and_flour_davistown

COURTESY OF FIRE AND FLOUR

Italian dining designed for families.

Stylish Accommodation, Seaside Restaurant and Cocktail Bar. The perfect beach escape exclusively for adults.

BEACHSIDE RETREAT On the beach. Toowoon Bay NSW 2261 +61 2 4332 1566 kims@kims.com.au www.kims.com.au 82

COAST FAMILIES

BLOOMING DANGEROUS The spring flowers putting your pet at risk The joys of spring are many: gardens bursting into bloom, homes filled with fresh flowers. But not everything in the garden is as harmless as it looks. Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) Gosford is reminding pet owners that some of the season's most popular plants can be highly toxic to cats and dogs. Beguiling spring favourites like lilies, daffodils, tulips and hyacinths harbour serious health issues if chewed or swallowed by your furry friend. Lilies are particularly dangerous for cats, with even tiny amounts of pollen, or water from a vase, potentially leading to life-threatening kidney failure. ‘Every spring we see pets presented to emergency with suspected plant and flower toxicity,’ says Dr Natashia Evans from ARH Gosford.

‘In some cases, even a small exposure can quickly become a medical emergency.’ Signs of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, loss of appetite and difficulty breathing. ‘If you think your pet has chewed or eaten a toxic plant, don't wait for symptoms to appear,’ says Dr Evans. ‘Contact your veterinarian or emergency hospital immediately. Early treatment can make all the difference.’ If you suspect your pet has nibbled a flower or plant they shouldn't have, contact ARH Gosford on 02 4323 3886. The emergency team is available 24/7.

Mingara!

Make your Central Coast holiday great with

Stay and unwind at Encore by Mingara, our vibrant 4-star lifestyle hotel, while enjoying one of our many bars, cafés and restaurants. With fantastic live entertainment, an events centre, and state‑of‑the‑art fitness and aquatics facilities, Mingara is the perfect place to escape and create great holiday memories. Book your entertaining stay at encorebymingara.com.au

Life’s Great at Mingara 12-14 Mingara Drive, Tumbi Umbi NSW 2261 P: 02 4349 7799 www.mingara.com.au