Festival Creative Director Laena Stephenson said, “We have overcome covid induced cancellations and flood provoked postponements to make this festival happen.”

“I want to thank all our workers, volunteers, performers and our loyal audience for their patience and tenacity. We can’t wait to bring the festival family back together for a celebration of the great Aussie outdoors.”

Despite the postponement, most of the musical and workshop program remains intact, with a handful of exceptions. Most notably, the dirtgirlworld crew are unavailable on that weekend. In their place, the super-talented Hoozatt Entertainment mob will host additional kid-friendly workshops and hilarious performances, alongside their brilliant street theatre antics.

Good Food, Good Music

The festival has also added Grafton locals, The Manifested to the bill, as well as the captivating and energetic Casino-based band, Blinders, who guarantee to ‘get any party rockin’.

“Aside from the music, the glorious natural setting and family-oriented workshops and outdoor games, the main attraction is the food,” said Phil Nicholas, festival Event Manager.

“There are many skilled amateur cooks out there who demonstrate their proficiency with a camp oven at the festival, including in the Sunday cooking competition. And there are still spaces left for anyone who wants to enter.”

Tickets

For tickets, the revised festival program and competition entry forms, head to the festival website. Read our last article on Coastbeat.

The post Clarence Valley Camp Oven Festival – BACK ON! appeared first on Coastbeat.

We would like to acknowledge and thank our allies, who stood beside us. ANZAC Day is a day for gratitude, remembrance, and great sadness. The following story speaks to how remembering the past is crucial to creating a better future, in a world where peace is still elusive and war touches us all.

Our Spirit on the Kokoda Track

Aiden Grimes has walked the Kokoda Track 124 times, which adds up to three and a half years of walking. Impressive dedication, or sheer eccentric madness?

Aiden might argue that it takes a bit of both to conquer the Kokoda. But he would also be quick to point out that this dedication to his cause is nothing compared to the Diggers who endured the Kokoda Track during WW2. They are the men who inspired his passion for Australian military history.

Perhaps an odd interest for Dublin born Irishman? Aiden explains how a chance meeting sparked what has become a calling.

Inspired By Vietnam Veterans

Over the phone, talking rapid fire in an Irish accent that has a distinct Aussie twang, Aiden explains how he came to Australia in 1987 and witnessed a returned serviceman parade for Vietnam veterans. The injustice of the vilification that these soldiers endured on their return to Australia spoke to him. Moved by what he saw, Aiden connected with one of the men watching the parade.

“I made a mate that day, a Digger called Stan Bissett who was a legendary AFL player and Wallaby. He survived the Kokoda but his brother didn’t. Stan told me how he held his brother in his arms as he died, sang him Danny Boy.”

We Are Doomed to Repeat History

Stan was at the parade to honour the returning servicemen. His own experience during WW2 gave him empathy for what these servicemen had endured.

“Then I discovered that very few young Australians even know about the Track,” said Aiden. “They learn about the European battles, but not about what their own people were doing just north of Australia. So I made a promise to Stan that I’d share the experiences of the Diggers with new generations of Australians.”

Perseverance and Excellence

Aiden is a sports physiologist. His company, Our Spirit, uses the Kokoda Track as an exemplar for perseverance and excellence. Elite athletes, CEOs and other high achievers pit themselves against the Kokoda, under Aiden’s guidance.

“They learn about teamwork. The Australian diggers survived because they had each other’s backs. The story of the Kokoda Track is one of incredible mateship and survival. Trackers also get a glimpse of the past.”

Participants are called ‘Trackers’. One of the responsibilities of being a Tracker is to carry books and medicine into the communities along the Kokoda Trail.

Showing Respect

“The Diggers were helped by the local Papua New Guinea people. This is our way to pay back and show respect for their part in Australian history.”

In turn, Papua New Guinea respects the work Aiden does. In 2019 he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, by the Governor General of PNG, for services to the country. In Australia, Aiden received an even higher honour, many would argue, as the 2000 NSW Community Father of the Year, for his work raising awareness and funds for prevention of youth suicide.

Investing in Future Generations

Aiden believes that mentoring children is a vital role. He began the Campfire Academy, which takes troubled teen boys bush. It too is built around the Australian Diggers’ experience with the Kokoda Track and the ideas that history offers to the present day.

“If you don’t know where you come from, how do you know where you’re going?” is the belief Aiden’s shares with his students, and the Trackers.

“These kids have had difficult lives. They don’t understand their emotions, but they do understand pain. We teach them using what I call ‘Practical Intelligence’: don’t tell me, show me.

Aiden has also designed an educational program called the Kokoda Schools Project. Each unit is age and syllabus appropriate, including a variety of visual, written and video resources. The central pillar of the resource is the concept of Courage. Aiden uses history as a conduit to show connection between the courage displayed on the Kokoda Track in WW2 and courage in students’ everyday lives.

The next project for Our Spirit is a collaboration with the NSW police using Kokoda principles to address domestic violence. Sorely needed.

Learning Our Lessons?

This is how Aiden Grimes uses the ANZAC spirit to teach and help Australians today. He is right: if we don’t learn from history we are doomed to repeat it. On this ANZAC Day, let’s pause to remember all those killed in war; and every man, woman and child in Ukraine and all other places in conflict, today.

Watch Aiden’s video below. Find out more about the work Our Spirit does.

The post ANZAC Day 2022 appeared first on Coastbeat.

PolySpine gives external structural support to the wearer, with enough flexibility within its design to adapt to multiple activities. Team Saban’s intention is that their patented modular exoskeleton design will offer a library of attachment options, to support activities like independent floor sitting, physiotherapy, aeroplane travel, paddle boarding, or something as simple as sitting in a camp chair.

Coastbeat checked in on the progress of this life-changing invention. Riley tells us that the in-house occupational therapists are currently in the final stage of user trials.

Road Testing PolySpine

Riley is integrally involved with the development, offering valuable critical feedback to his father.

“Road testing this invention took a lot of time and energy as I constantly put myself in many new, and sometimes extreme, situations to test the boundaries (which I loved),” said Riley. “We have worked very closely with a Sydney industrial design company and also the University of Technology, to ensure PolySpine meets all safety requirements. This has allowed us to obtain TGA approval.”

Clint’s background is in construction but he has always been interested in industrial design. Years of adjusting and modifying available equipment for Riley led Clint to conceive and develop PolySpine.

Who’s the Boss?

Working with a family member can be challenging, especially when the design engages with something that is personal, but with such potential in the public arena. What works for Riley may not work for everyone else. We asked if navigating this while remaining objective was difficult for Riley and Clint.

“Working with Dad has been an amazing experience,” Riley tells us. “We work well as a team and continually challenge each other with our new ideas and different views. This pushes us both, ensuring PolySpine is a supreme product. I have learnt so much from working with my dad and I appreciate how much he listens and values my input.”

There are so many rules and regulations that apply to any product used for disability support. Yet innovation with new fabrics and 3D printing technology is ongoing. We asked Riley where their product fits in with existing devices.

International Appeal

“The concept and design is unique. There is currently nothing like PolySpine in the world. We intend to release in Australia first, so we can gauge the response and fine tune the product. Then we will launch internationally.

“There are some big disability expos to attend in Sydney this year where we will be able to showcase PolySpine. Covid had definitely slowed down our user trials, although we were able to work our way through it. Anything is possible in the future and PolySpine will continue to evolve. We aim for our product to have many applications and hopefully change many lives,” says Riley.

Congratulations to Clint and Riley Saban, their family and the whole team. They are helping people with disability all over the world. To learn more you can visit the PolySpine website or follow them on Facebook. Read our article in January Coastbeat about Riley’s Australia Day award.

The post Riley Saban Introduces PolySpine appeared first on Coastbeat.

When? On Saturday 14 May, 2022.

The historic village of Ulmarra is lighting the way with the new river festival, Riverlight Ulmarra. This one-day community cultural festival will showcase the town and the Clarence River through a spectacular display of floating lanterns.

Lights, Music, Action!

For your entertainment, Riverlight Ulmarra offers live music, food stalls, lantern-making, trash and treasure stalls, vintage farm engine displays, fire twirling and a bar. You can join in the lantern-making workshop from 2.00pm, to make your own ray of light for floating down the river.

The festival centres around illuminated river-based art installations, guided by Master Lantern Maker Phill Relf of IKARA Celebratory Events. Mr Relf has over 20 years’ experience in lantern making for festivals.

Riverlight Ulmarra is produced by events specialist, Phil Nicholas of Events Delivered. Mr Nicholas hopes that Riverlight Ulmarra will provide a focal point for Ulmarra, celebrating the beauty of the Clarence River.

“This is a great opportunity to shine a light on the history, stories and characteristics of this charming town. The festival is designed to attract local families as well as visitors from beyond the region,” Mr Nicholas told Coastbeat.

Created by Master Lantern Maker

“With the help of Phill Relf, who has been the creative mind behind many well-known local and interstate lantern festivals, we will be running a series of public workshops in the lead up, to design and build a large, sculptural lantern to head up the parade.

“On the night there will be a procession through the village before the lanterns are released into the Clarence River, providing an awe-inspiring and memorable sight, which we hope to replicate every year.”

A Perfect Day Trip

The festival has been specifically designed to accommodate day trips from nearby regions. Overnight visitors can stay and experience more of the Clarence Valley, with numerous boutique accommodation options.

“We’ve curated a series of itineraries that guide people through half-day, full-day or two-day drives, allowing them to explore the region while here for the festival,” Mr Nicholas said.

“They’re all downloadable from our website and provide suggestions to help people really experience a local’s insight into the Clarence Valley.”

“These include discovering the many small and unknown hamlets that dot the river, the history of Grafton, and the quirky coastal towns that hark back to a 1950s holiday experience.

Awesome Music

Local musicians have been invited to provide upbeat entertainment to compliment the awe-inspiring and memorable sight of the lantern procession.

The line-up consists of the Downriver Grommets under the tutelage of local music teacher Ryan Enns, and The Enns of the Earth playing everything from bluegrass through to Ed Sheeran. Headlining the event will be the Clarence Valley’s own The Ninth Chapter, plying their trademark funky groove and punchy horns.

“Ulmarra is only an hour’s drive from Coffs Harbour, meaning the festival makes for an easy day trip,” Mr Nicholas said.

Get Ready With A Lantern Kit

“Visitors can get prepared to join the parade by purchasing lantern kits via our website and we post them out with full instructions. They’re simple and fun to make, and they look magical illuminated after dark.”

Don’t hide in the dark! Get lit at Riverlight Ulmarra

For more information and to book tickets visit the Riverlight Ulmarra website.

The post RIVERLIGHT ULMARRA LANTERN FESTIVAL appeared first on Coastbeat.

The little suburb of John’s River, half way between Port Macquarie and Taree, now boasts an award winning business. Matt and Emily Neilson, first generation dairy farmers, and their two little boys, Joseph and Henry, milk just over 100 cows on their John’s River property. The family began dairy farming in 2015, with a mere 55 cows going through an old eight-bale walk-through dairy at Dungog.

…milk was being sold for $1 a litre in the supermarkets and consumers were happily buying it, meanwhile the dairy farmers working hard every day to produce it were going broke and struggling through intense drought.

Understanding that farming life is tough and success requires diversity, the Neilsons also ran their Dungog farm as a tourist destination. This won them the 2021 Hunter Region Business Excellence Award for Tourism and Hospitality.

Success allowed expansion and a move to the property at John’s River. Emily says, “It’s absolutely beautiful here and the property has a lot of potential. The cows have adjusted really well and we can see the future being very positive.” 

So what is The Dairy and why did it win an award?

“We wanted to recreate that connection between the farmer who produces the milk and the people who buy it in the shops,” explains Emily. “There’s a huge gap between the two these days and it means that consumers know very little about where their milk is coming from and what goes into producing it.

“It became really obvious that this was a huge issue when milk was being sold for $1 a litre in the supermarkets and consumers were happily buying it. Meanwhile the dairy farmers working hard every day to produce it were going broke and struggling through intense drought. It’s not sustainable at that price but the bigger issue was why were people happy to buy it so cheaply.”

The education program that is The Dairy, John’s River allows milk lovers, cow lovers and those who are just plain curious, to tour the property, meet some of the animals and experience life on the dairy. You can bottle feed a little calf, learn how to make fresh butter and enjoy cheese tasting.

It’s all about connection – with the people, the land and the cows.

Milking the Farmers

Emily says, “We want to allow you to chat with a real farmer and ask all the questions you might have about dairy farming and milk production. We’ll answer all your questions with honesty and openness and show you our happy, healthy animals and what their day-to-day lives are like. It’s all about connection – with the people, the land and the cows. And we love it!”

Book now for The Dairy, John’s River Easter grand opening dates, available on their website. Follow them on social media for regular updates on what’s happening on the farm.

The post How much is a litre of milk? appeared first on Coastbeat.

Aiden Grimes has walked the Kokoda Track 124 times, which adds up to three and a half years of walking. Impressive dedication, or sheer eccentric madness?

Aiden might argue that it takes a bit of both to conquer the Kokoda. But he would also be quick to point out that this dedication to his cause is nothing compared to the Diggers who endured the Kokoda Track during WW2. They are the men who inspired his passion for Australian military history.

Perhaps an odd interest for Dublin born Irishman? Aiden explains how a chance meeting sparked what has become a calling.

Inspired By Vietnam Veterans

Over the phone, talking rapid fire in an Irish accent that has a distinct Aussie twang, Aiden explains how he came to Australia in 1987 and witnessed a returned serviceman parade for Vietnam veterans. The injustice of the vilification that these soldiers endured on their return to Australia spoke to him. Moved by what he saw, Aiden connected with one of the men watching the parade.

“I made a mate that day, a Digger called Stan Bissett who was a legendary AFL player and Wallaby. He survived the Kokoda but his brother didn’t. Stan told me how he held his brother in his arms as he died, sang him Danny Boy.”

“Then I discovered that very few young Australians even know about the Track. They learn about the European battles, but not about what their own people were doing just north of Australia. So I made a promise to Stan that I’d share the experiences of the Diggers with new generations of Australians.”

Perseverance and Excellence

Aiden is a sports physiologist. His company, Our Spirit, uses the Kokoda Track as an exemplar for perseverance and excellence. Elite athletes, CEOs and other high achievers pit themselves against the Kokoda, under Aiden’s guidance.

“They learn about teamwork. The Australian diggers survived because they had each other’s backs. The story of the Kokoda Track is one of incredible mateship and survival. Trackers also get a glimpse of the past.”

Participants are called ‘Trackers’. One of the responsibilities of being a Tracker is to carry books and medicine into the communities along the Kokoda Trail.

Showing Respect

“The Diggers were helped by the local Papua New Guinea people. This is our way to pay back and show respect for their part in Australian history.”

In turn, Papua New Guinea respects the work Aiden does. In 2019 he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, by the Governor General of PNG, for services to the country. In Australia, Aiden received an even higher honour, many would argue, as the 2000 NSW Community Father of the Year, for his work raising awareness and funds for prevention of youth suicide.

Investing in Future Generations

Aiden believes that mentoring children is a vital role. He began the Campfire Academy, which takes troubled teen boys bush. It too is built around the Australian Diggers’ experience with the Kokoda Track and the ideas that history offers to the present day.

“If you don’t know where you come from, how do you know where you’re going?” is the belief Aiden’s shares with his students, and the Trackers.

“These kids have had difficult lives. They don’t understand their emotions, but they do understand pain. We teach them using what I call ‘Practical Intelligence’: don’t tell me, show me.

Aiden has also designed an educational program called the Kokoda Schools Project. Each unit is age and syllabus appropriate, including a variety of visual, written and video resources. The central pillar of the resource is the concept of Courage. Aiden uses history as a conduit to show connection between the courage displayed on the Kokoda Track in WW2 and courage in students’ everyday lives.

The next project for Our Spirit is a collaboration with the NSW police using Kokoda principles to address domestic violence. Sorely needed.

Learning Our Lessons?

This is how Aiden Grimes uses the ANZAC spirit to teach and help Australians today. He is right: if we don’t learn from history we are doomed to repeat it. On this ANZAC Day, let’s pause to remember all those killed in war; and every man, woman and child in Ukraine and all other places in conflict, today.

Watch Aiden’s video below. Find out more about the work Our Spirit does.

The post ANZAC Day 2022 appeared first on Coastbeat.

At this time of year it’s tough to think of anything beyond the excitement of Christmas. But savvy parents know there’s a long hot summer ahead. Curious kids will be looking for holiday fun and adventure. If you live in Port Macquarie or you’re planning a stay, check out some of Coastbeat’s favourite activities.

Get Your Hands Dirty

Homegrown Organics supplies Mid North Coast families with fresh organic produce from their market garden. In January they have four unique, nature-based farm workshops on offer for children and families. They are suitable for different ages, and there are options for parents to leave children or to stay and participate. Kids in the Garden, Kids in the Bush and Kids Under the Stars. Then there’s Off Grid Living for the whole family. Book now!

Learn to Surf

If your young ones are keen to ride the waves, there are numerous local surf schools happy to enrol new students. Port Macquarie Surf School offers a range of private and group lessons as well as a junior development program for 5-12 year olds. Whether you’re after a taster or a multi-day experience, this licensed Surfing Australia surf school has you covered. There are daily lessons and weekly classes as well as intensive options. Book in now and learn this life long skill!

Bago Maze

Kids and grown-ups alike will love Bago Maze. The maze is now into its 15^th year of growth and is maintained at 2.3 metres high. It’s the largest hedge maze in the state with the opportunity to explore two kilometres of trails. Bago Maze at Bago Vineyards is in the town of Wauchope, a short drive west of Port Macquarie. Take the opportunity to wind down with a glass of locally made wine or sweet treat from the resident artisan chocolatier.

And in the heart of Port Macquarie, here are some great options…

Centre of Gravity

Why not try something different these holidays with indoor rock climbing? Centre of Gravity is in the industrial area of town, on Jindalee Road and provides the opportunity to rock climb in air-conditioned comfort. The centre offers climbs for ages 3 and up and kids can work their way through caving sequences and a ropes course. All fitness and skill levels are catered to. Not one for heights or climbing? No problem. You can find your thrills at the laser tag arena instead.

Sea Acres Rainforest

One of the largest remaining coastal rainforest reserves in New South Wales, the beautifully preserved Sea Acres is a treat for the senses. Begin at the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre to learn about local Aboriginal culture and the rainforest environment. Pick up a brochure and head to the 1.3km boardwalk to spot rare rainforest birds, goannas and, if you’re lucky, a slithering diamond python (guided tours are also an option), before ending your visit with lunch under the canopy at the Rainforest Café.

The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is run by a team of passionate volunteers who care for over 250 injured or ill koalas every year. The koala hospital is open every day from 8am but all visits must be pre-booked. If you’re feeling generous, pick a koala to ‘adopt’ and you’ll receive a certificate and information pack, or choose a furry souvenir from the Koala Shop before you leave.

Port Macquarie Indoor Stadium

Children can get amongst team sports, art, jumping castles, table tennis and movies at the Indoor Stadium. This social and safe environment is for kindy to year six students. Choose from sessions starting December 17 and continuing to the 23rd or in early 2021 from January 4-22. Bookings must be made in advance.

On the Water

Almost as much fun as being in the water! Take a deep-sea fishing charter or a twilight dolphin cruise. Check out Port Jet Cruise Adventures for cruises, jet boats and jet skis (hot tip: kids will have a ball in the boom net), or head out on a luxe Catamaran with Port Sailing.

Camel Rides

Camels! Wait..what? Yep, Port’s got ’em. You can go camel riding on stunning Lighthouse Beach. It’s one of those rare experiences that you have to take while it’s there. Visit Port Macquarie Camel Safaris.

Or Horse Rides

Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre have an awesome program of rides these holidays, with something for everyone’s ability considered. There are team game days, beginner camps, private lessons, winery trail rides or pony rides for the littlies. 

Hastings River Horseriding offers long and leisurely trail rides through our beautiful Wauchope Hinterland, where you and your trusty steed can finish off with a refreshing river swim. Oh, and they are also doing beach rides so you can finally tick that off your bucket list!

And just a short drive away…

Stoney Aqua Park

Release your inner child at the Stoney Aqua Park, a supersized water adventure land complete with floating trampolines, obstacles, slides, ladders and swings. Situated on a freshwater manmade lake ten minutes north of Port Macquarie, the park is manned by a team of lifeguards and is safe for kids aged 3 and upwards (children under 6 require parental supervision).

The Billabong Zoo

10 minutes from the heart of Port, you’ll find Billabong Zoo. Home to 200 different animals, including lions, cheetahs and penguins, the Billabong Zoo lives up to its award-winning reputation. Wander the park at your leisure or join daily feeding presentations by experienced guides to gain a deeper insight into your favourite animal – watching the huge resident crocodile, Shrek, being fed his lunch is sure to be a highlight!

Hinterland Adventures

Head to the charming town of Wauchope, an easy 25 minute drive west of Port Mac, for great shopping, cafes, and the much loved Timbertown Heritage Theme Park. Steam train lovers take note! From Wauchope you can drive over to Beechwood (home to the popular Beechwood Hotel), Byabarra, and the beautiful rolling hills of Comboyne. It’s a great day out.

GROW Sustainable Living Farm 

This GROW farm is well worth the one hour trip from Port Macquarie. There are a wide range of micro-courses on offer for adults and fun activities for little farmers, too. The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party includes goodies to eat and drink, games and the chance to pat baby animals. There are also Mini Mountain Goat Tours and Down on the Farm Tours that include egg, fruit, vegetable and herb collection as well as time with the resident lambs, chickens, dogs and alpacas. 

Meet Lewis the Koala

Step into Port Central Shopping Centre and meet Lewis the Koala. The heroic rescue effort and tragic death of this local koala inspired world recognised artists Gillie and Marc to create a sculpture in its honour. The sculpture takes pride of place at Port Central. Visit today and read about the devastating effect of last summer’s bushfires and what’s being done to protect our precious wildlife.

All images courtesy of Greater Port Macquarie Tourism.

The post Port Macquarie School Holiday Fun appeared first on Coastbeat.

Scientific Exploration Stations

Inject some creative inspiration into your summer holidays. Hear artist stories about our coastline or treat the kids to a fun science and art journey. Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is aiming to keep families busy these holidays, inspired by their summer exhibition, The White Bluff Project. The self-directed exploration stations allow children to investigate, make and closely examine scientific matter. Exploration Stations run from the December 18 until January 14. 

Coffs Coast Eco Quest – Summer Holiday Challenge

THIS SUMMER, find the fun on a real-world adventure with the Coffs Coast Eco Quest. Become a citizen scientist and discover nature all over the Coffs Coast. Start playing from anywhere on the Coffs Coast – your backyard, beach or bush. Download the free app and get started taking photos. You never know what you’ll discover! Summer EcoQuest runs over four weeks from Monday December 27. WIN a Jetty Dive Centre voucher valued at $85 each week!

Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours

Hop on a stand up paddle board or in a kayak with Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours. Wajaana Yaam translates to ‘from this country’ in the local Gumbaynggirr language. Enjoy a 2.5 hour paddle in the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Paddle with the direct descendants of the world’s first stand up paddlers and connect to land and sea through stories and language and collect and taste seasonal bush tucker.

Learn to Surf

If your young ones are keen to ride the waves, there are numerous local surf schools happy to enrol new students. Solitary Islands Surf School offers a range of lessons in Woolgoolga, Darlington, Emerald Beach and Sawtell. Whether it’s your child’s first time or they’ve been surfing a while and want to improve their skills, this licensed Surfing Australia surf school has the bases covered. Book in now and learn this life long skill! 

Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre 

A range of creative and cultural activities are on offer these school holidays at the Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre. On January 12, kids can learn to tie dye and on January 14 they can make damper. On January 19 it’s Posca Art on Canvas. Workshops are $15-$22 and bookings are essential.  

Solitary Islands Aquarium

Get up close to colourful clownfish, sea urchins, lionfish and sea anemone. This aquarium aims to bring awareness and appreciation for the marine environment through education and science. Located at Southern Cross University, it gives visitors young and old the chance to interact with Coffs Coast marine life. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, all aquarium guests must reserve tickets.   

See the Sights, Sip a Coffee 

Niigi Niigi/Sealy Lookout is a 10-minute drive from Coffs up through the banana plantations. Step out onto the Forest Sky Pier and experience magnificent coastal views over the city and coastline. Grab coffee, drinks and snacks from Nyanggan Gapi ‘Perfect Coffee’ Cafe & Catering and stay a while. The social enterprise by Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation provides training and employment opportunities for the young people. If you’re feeling adventurous, book in for a TreeTop Adventure too! 

TreeTop Adventure Park

Climb, weave and fly through the branches overlooking Coffs Harbour at the TreeTop Adventure Park. This eco-friendly park is arranged in courses for different age groups and skills levels. It boasts over 100 elevated obstacles with rope ladders, wobbly bridges, cargo nets, tunnels and zip lines. Make sure you check out Sealy Lookout while you’re there!  

Coffs Central Sculpture Trail

Take a journey through a curated selection of works from Bondi’s Sculptures by the Sea and local artists’ work. You can pick up a free Coffs Central Sculpture and Artwork Trail brochure and follow the trail laid out on the map to view each artwork. With information on each artwork included, you’re able to gain insight into the artists’ intentions and details of the materials used.

Summer Reading Club 

Summer on the coast doesn’t always equal sunny days, so it’s wise to plan some indoor activities. Sign your kids up to the Summer Reading Club and they’ll take part in exciting reading challenges with prizes. They’ll also have the chance to participate in hands-on events from fun animation and fantasy craft to a creative writing workshop. Get more info at the Coffs Harbour, Toormina or Woolgoolga Libraries.  

The post Coffs Coast School Holiday Fun appeared first on Coastbeat.

Santa will be stopping in at Coffs Central and Port Central and he wants a selfie with YOU! There are limited spaces so hop to it and secure your spot now.

Bookings are open for Traditional, Sensitive (for children and adults with additional needs), or Santa Paws (bring your furry friend!) photo sessions. Make memories with an exclusive family photoshoot or round up your friends and have some fun.

 Each session lasts for 15 minutes and special care has been taken to create a COVID-Safe environment. Images will be provided on a USB stick after each photo session.

Santa’s Getting Ready…

Santa says he’s excited to come and visit all of the children and families on the Mid North Coast later this month. He will be accompanied by his trusty reindeers again this year.

“Rudolph is my favourite because he shines the light at the front of the sleigh, but they all do a very good job,” Santa explains. “While I’m meeting the children, they graze in the park across the road.” 

“But sometimes they run off and I have to go find them,” he continues. “Mrs Claus doesn’t like it when that happens!”

Toy-Making Underway

Speaking of Mrs Claus, will she be joining Santa?

“No, she’ll be at home at the North Pole overseeing all of the elves as they make this year’s presents,” Santa explains. “We don’t get a holiday at Christmas time – we start making next year’s toys on Boxing Day.”  

Santa says Bluey toys and apparel are once again very popular. Lego, stand up paddle boards and sporting equipment are also high on most people’s lists. He confirms that he certainly does know who has been naughty or nice, but there are ways to jump from one list to the other. 

“If you’re on the naughty list, being kind, helpful and polite will help,” says Santa. “I love it when children try really hard to become good boys and girls for their mums and dads or their grandparents or guardians.” 

The post Santa Photos – Coffs Central and Port Central appeared first on Coastbeat.

Parenthood – 1989 

In this American comedy/drama film, Steve Martin plays father Gil Buckman who’s trying to juggle his family and career. When he finds out his eldest son has emotional problems and his two younger children also have issues, he begins to question his ability as a father and blames himself. Gil then learns his wife is pregnant with their fourth child and becomes unsure if he can handle it. This movie will definitely be relatable to those who struggle with the work/family balance. 

Mrs Doubtfire – 1993

Starring Robin Williams, this comedy/drama will be sure to leave the family in stitches. The story follows a recently divorced father, Daniel who has little access to his kids. Alongside his brother, he hatches an elaborate plan to dress as an older British woman and convince his ex-wife to hire him as a nanny. However, things get a little awkward when Mrs Doubtfire and Daniel must meet different parties at the same restaurant. Will Mrs Doubtfire’s true identity be revealed? 

Cheaper by the Dozen – 2003 

With Steve Martin once again playing a father role, this family comedy follows the life of Tom and his wife Kate. They’ve both made career compromises to raise their 12 children. But things take a turn when Tom is offered a college football coaching job that requires the whole family to relocate. At the same time, a publisher purchases Kate’s parenting memoir. While she heads off on a book tour, Tom is left to deal with the kids who are unhappy about the move, sending the household into chaos. This movie will get the whole family laughing. Grab the sequel Cheaper by the Dozen 2 for a hilarious night in. 

Daddy Day Care – 2003

With his wife bringing home the bacon, unemployed Charlie (played by Eddie Murphy) becomes a stay-at-home dad to the couple’s young son. With help from his friend Phil, they decide to start a day care centre. Enrolments quickly surge. As they employ another goofy friend, Charlie finds himself dealing with endless red tape to keep the business afloat. 

Three Men and a Baby – 1987 

New York City roommates, Peter, Michael and Jack are all successful and happily unmarried. However, everything changes when a young woman abandons an infant in front of their loft with a note saying the child belongs to Jack. They are now forced to care for the child and although they make hopeless babysitters, they grow quite attached to the little one.

The Game Plan – 2007 

Bachelor football star Joe has it all. He’s wealthy, carefree and his team is on its way to capturing a championship. His young daughter turns up which sends his life running in an unexpected direction. Now he must learn to parent while juggling his career. This is a hilarious film that will be sure to get the whole family laughing. 

Daddy’s Home – 2015 

Brad (played by Will Farrell) is a kind-hearted radio executive who wants to be the best possible stepfather to his wife’s two kids. Brad develops an inferiority complex once her ex-husband Dusty (played by Mark Wahlberg) breezes back into town. As Dusty demonstrates his flair for athletics, home repair and bad-boy charisma, Brad finds himself in a no-holds-barred battle to win the approval of his family. This is a light-hearted comedy which shows the sweet and honest truth about fatherhood. 

Father of the Bride – 1991 

George and Nina are proud parents of Annie. Annie announces she is engaged which turns their whole world upside down especially for overprotective dad, George. From meeting the in-laws to wedding plans with an over-the-top consultant and his flamboyant assistant, it seems that troubles never end. Once again Steve Martin playing the role of a father will have everyone in stitches. 

We Bought a Zoo – 2011

LA journalist Benjamin decides to make a fresh start after his wife’s death. He quits his job and moves his children to a property containing the Rosemoor Wildlife Park. Though closed for years, Rosemoor is still home to many animals and carer Kelly. Benjamin opens his heart and his wallet as he, Kelly and the others work to renovate and reopen the zoo. This is a warm and uplifting film about overcoming struggles after a tragedy. 

Fatherhood – 2021

A man brings up his daughter as a single dad after the unexpected death of his wife a day after she gave birth. This movie follows the challenges of being a new dad trying to work out the art of parenting for the first time. With the help from his mum, mother-in-law and a family friend, he slowly works his way through the new normal. This is a heartfelt and touching film – pass the tissues to dad.

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