With the Coffs Coast firmly on the radar of elite national sports teams and competitions of all types, local and visiting NRL fans are excited for the return of the Cronulla Sharks and Gold Coast Titans. After a brilliant night of football, last year’s fans are keen for a repeat match on Saturday 18 June 2022.

In a joint partnership the NSW Government, the NRL, Coffs Harbour City Council and the Cronulla Sharks have come together to make this happen and further cement the Coffs Coast as the Sharks’ ‘home away from home’.

Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Paul Amos said: “We are thrilled yet again to host another Sharks home game at our brilliant C.ex Coffs International Stadium and further cement our position as the regional sporting capital of Australia.

“The Sharks were super keen to come back here to play the Titans after their successful clash in 2021, and that’s a testament to the fantastic facilities that we provide here, and the staff that run them.

“We can’t wait to deliver once again for our community and visitors.”

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said he is thrilled the NSW Government has provided $100,000 to Coffs Harbour City Council for the delivery of this sporting extravaganza. “The Regional Events Acceleration Fund boosts local economies like ours by supporting the growth of existing
events and attracting new major domestic and international ones,” Mr Singh said. “I know footy fans across our city, and far beyond, are looking forward to the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership fixture between Cronulla Sharks and Gold Coast Titans. I can’t wait to see this exciting re-match bring the bumper crowds back to C.ex Coffs International Stadium.”

Dino Mezzatesta Group CEO of Cronulla Sharks adds: “The game in 2021 was a wonderful experience for our players, members and fans and for the NSW North Coast community and we expect nothing different this time around.

“We were embraced by the local Council, community and rugby league supporters of the region last season which made the decision to return an easy one, with taking this game to Coffs giving us the opportunity to again showcase our club and the NRL to a regional audience.

“The Sharks are now invested in the Coffs Coast area as it allows us to expand our brand, we are keen to grow what has become a solid supporter base and further develop our partnerships in community programs in the region. It is also very pleasing to see that all indications are there will be plenty of Sharks members and supporters from Sydney travelling up to enjoy the game as well as everything the NSW North coast has to offer.”

Tickets go on sale via Ticketek from 9am on 22 April.

The post National Rugby League Returns to Coffs Harbour! appeared first on Coastbeat.

Coconut Matcha Latte 

Makes approximately 250ml/one cup

½ teaspoon of matcha powder 

1 teaspoon of vanilla sugar 

¼ teaspoon of coconut sugar

½ cup of oat milk 

½ cup coconut milk 

Small amount of hot water to dissolve matcha powder

Combine matcha powder, vanilla sugar and coconut sugar in a cup. Add a little hot water (90 degrees Celsius) and whisk into a paste. Heat and froth the oat milk and coconut milk. Add the hot milk to the matcha/sugar paste. Top the latte with a little matcha powder and enjoy! 

Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade 

Makes approximately 250ml/one cup

1 heaped teaspoon of blue butterfly pea flowers 

1 teaspoon white sugar 

50ml hot water 

200ml soda water 

A sprig of fresh rosemary

Ice

Lemon wedges 

Brew one heaped teaspoon of blue butterfly pea flower in hot water (90 degrees Celsius). Add white sugar as desired then set aside for 5-10 minutes. Put ice and a sprig of rosemary in a glass then squeeze in the juice of two lemon wedges. Slowly pour the sugar/ blue butterfly pea flower tea into the glass. Watch the colour change from blue to purple. Fill the glass with soda water and enjoy! 

The post Tea with B: Coconut Matcha Latte + Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Lemonade appeared first on Coastbeat.

• Stay local. The firm advice from health authorities is to avoid unnecessary travel and stick to walking tracks close to home which helps avoid interaction with others.
• Keep it small. Don’t organise a large group of friends or family.
• Practise good hygiene and make sure you maintain 1.5m of physical distance from others around you.  
• Don’t go if you’re feeling unwell – it’s safer for everyone if you stay at home. 

The NSW National Parks says where possible, walking tracks and low-traffic open spaces will stay open so the local community can exercise. Some popular sites will likely be closed, so head to quieter tracks nearby. National Parks and Wildlife Service Officers and NSW Police will be patrolling national parks to make sure visitors are complying with regulations. If a national park or other public space is too crowded to practice social distancing, it’s your responsibility to leave the area. With those conditions in mind, check out some of Coastbeat’s favourite secluded walking tracks of the north and mid north coast.

Three Sisters Walking Track – Broken Head

The reserve is just 4 kilometres south of Byron Bay. Follow the coast road and turn into Broken Head Reserve Road. The Three Sisters walking track – 1.6km return and 30-45 minutes long – takes you through the rainforest and along a scenic cliff top. The views are incredible – a stunning panorama of secluded beaches, rocky coves and dense rainforest. Don’t forget to take the time to learn about the Aboriginal story behind the Three Sisters.

Goanna Headland – Evans Head

Venture along this 7.6km return walking track through the heath following the coastline. The Goanna Headland walk in the Dirawong Reserve will take you through scrub, across rocks and rock pools, onto pebbly and sandy beaches and up to the headland. It’s a special site for the local Bundjalung people who believe the Dirawong (a goanna) is the Creator Being who taught the people various aspects of Aboriginal culture and customs.

Solitary Islands Coastal Walk – Red Rock to Sawtell

Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting you set off on a three-day hike and cover this 60km stretch of golden beaches, rocky headlands, lush rainforest and charming villages in one go! Rather, pick one of the many access points to the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk and focus on the trail closest to your home. As well as appreciating the picturesque landscapes and local wildlife, be sure to seek out the indigenous and maritime history of your area.

Big Hill Rainforest Walking Track – Crescent Head

You’ll find the 1.4km loop Big Hill Rainforest Walking Track in the northern precinct of Limeburners Creek National Park, along Point Plomer Road. It starts out at the picnic area by the beach before winding along the headland. You’ll venture into rare coastal rainforest and meander through low heath vegetation as well. If you’re in the rainforest around sunset, be sure to keep an eye out for microbats flying overhead!    

Jack Perkins Walking Track – South West Rocks

If you want some of the best views in Hat Head National Park, take a walk along the short Jack Perkins track. It’s a downhill/uphill path that takes you through whispering she-oaks, rainforest and heathland. It should take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on whether or not you take a dip before you turn around. Oh, and don’t forget your binoculars as you may spot whales or a glossy black cockatoo with red wing tips!

Booti Hill and Wallis Lake walking track – Forster

If you’re feeling adventurous and want a combination of bush, beach and lake, then tackle all or a portion of the 7.3km Booti Hill and Wallis Lake walking track. Starting at The Ruins campground (Elizabeth Beach and Sunset picnic area are alternate approaches), up the northern side of Booti Hill, through the rainforest and onto the ridge-crest above Lindemans Cove. The last 3.5km follows the shores of Wallis Lake. There are plenty of places to stop and opportunities to swim. Be prepared to dig deep as there are short but steep climbs in some sections.   

Remember, if you’re keen to get out on one of these tracks, it must be with the primary purpose of exercising. Most playgrounds, picnic and barbeque areas, car parks and even toilet blocks will be closed so best to get there on foot, carry water and snacks and keep those legs moving. Happy hiking!

Dreaming of a camping trip once travel restrictions are lifted? Check out some of Coastbeat’s favourite local destinations.

The post Take the road less travelled on some of the coast’s best secluded walking tracks appeared first on Coastbeat.

The Butterfly Effect

The ‘Butterfly Effect’ began for Ashley Whittington in 2017. She folded an origami butterfly and gave it to a stranger experiencing a tough time. Seeing the positive shift in his mood, she realised she was onto something. When she moved to Port Macquarie, Ashley started volunteering with Lifeline and an idea took shape. 

Mindfulness and Connection

In 2020, a series of origami butterfly folding events were held at Port Central. Participants were taught how to construct the butterflies and experienced the mindfulness that comes with such an activity. 

“It gave people the chance to come together to form social connections and focus on the moment,” Ashley explains. “People are more likely to talk and listen while they’re doing something creative.”

10,000 Butterflies

Over 1000 butterflies were folded and exhibited at Charles Sturt University. In 2021, the goal has been bumped up significantly. Throughout September – Suicide Prevention Month – nine local community services will aim to fold 1000 butterflies each. Each service has a colour, and their butterflies will be added to an art piece with nine different panels. It will be displayed at Port Central and tie in with ArtWalk and Mental Health Month (October).  

“Last year we had artists doing their own interpretations,” says Lifeline’s Lisa Willows. “This year we’ve streamlined the project a little so we can produce a collaborative artwork at the end.”

The services that Lifeline Mid Coast, Endeavour Clubhouse, Local Health District, Neami, New Horizons, Charles Sturt University, Liberty, Headspace and Werin. Artist Brad Collins will adorn the walls of the nine services with origami wings and locals will be encouraged to take a photo in front of them. 

Ashley says she never imagined the project would take off in the way it has. 

“I’m happy for it to get bigger and for more people involved,” she adds. 

Public butterfly folding events will be held at Port Central on September 6 and 7 from 10am-1pm. 

The post Butterflies for Mental Health appeared first on Coastbeat.

Coastbeat’s brand new Creative Hub is officially open at Coffs Central! Bridgette from Red Sparrow Tea Company hosted the first workshop. Participants learned all about blending bases, flavour relationship, balance, visual appeal and ratios. 

Bridgette shared her knowledge and helped participants craft their very own flavours. Red Sparrow Tea tins were filled with the best creations for everyone to take home.

Pottery and Plonk

We’re excited to offer a whole range of creative workshops in the space over the coming months. Next up is Pottery and Plonk. Caroline Harada and Kylie Loebel will show you how to hand build your own pottery. In this class you’ll create two unique pieces and learn the art of embellishing and decorating. Add some wine, cheese and good company for an afternoon to remember!

The post Tea Blending Christens the Coastbeat Creative Hub appeared first on Coastbeat.

Know Better, Do Better

When Nalia’s daughter broke out in severe eczema, she turned to natural remedies. Her interest in natural health had been growing in the years before her children were born, but seeing the impressive results encouraged her to delve deeper. Nalia applied to study through the Australasian College of Natural Therapies and gained an Advanced Diploma of Naturopathy. 

“When you know better, you do better,” she says. “In this industry you’re always learning new things which is great.”

As part of her course, Nalia was required to acquire clinical skills. She did a number of her clinic hours at Go Vita Coffs Central.

“I remember saying to my husband that it would be so good to own something like Go Vita,” she recalls. “That was seven or eight years ago so I feel we manifested it!”

A Natural Progression

Nalia went on to work as a naturopath at a health food store north of Coffs Harbour. She shopped at Go Vita from time to time and counted owners Tracey and Clinton as friends. When Tracey mentioned they were interested in selling, the wheels were set in motion.

As the new owner, Nalia will continue working in a ‘front of house’ role. She enjoys talking to regular customers and looks forward to welcoming new ones. Nalia is currently enjoying the challenge of gaining more ‘back of house’ skills. The same team of naturopaths and nutritionists will remain in the store and the same high-quality products will still be available.

“We have a full herbal dispensary so we can mix herbs and creams on the spot,” she explains. “There’s a whole range of protein powders and broths, supplements, skincare products, loose leaf teas and bulk food items as well as raw treats.”  

Cold and Flu Fighters

As we’re heading into winter, we asked Nalia to share some of her favourite cold and flu fighters.

“You’ll always find BioCeuticals ArmaForce For Juniors in my pantry,” she says. “It prevents children from getting the common cold and if they do have the symptoms it lessens the duration.”

“My husband and I use NutriVital Vitamin C and Hesperidin Powder,” Nalia adds. “It’s buffered so it’s easy on the tummy and it’s just a nice tasting drink to boost the immune system.”

“I also recommend NutriVital’s Immune Support in tablet form,” she says. “It has andrographis, echinacea, zinc and selenium and is a good supplement to take in winter to prevent colds and flus.”

“This organic, free-range Chicken Bone Broth is an immune boosting gut support by Nutra Organics,” Nalia explains. “It’s easy to take – just a teaspoon in a cup of boiling water or it can be used as a base in soups and stews.”

Say hello to Nalia and try these products at Go Vita Coffs Central today!

The post A Natural Fit – Meet the New Owner of Go Vita appeared first on Coastbeat.

Bridgette ‘B’ Vartiainen is the vibrant and vivacious owner of Red Sparrow Tea Company at Coffs Central. If you’re lucky enough to have met B, you’ll know how passionate she is about all things tea! Over the next few months, Bridgette will be having a cuppa and a chat with some of her favourite Coffs Coast locals. In the first episode of Tea with B, Bridgette shows Coffs Central’s Lucy Sittczenco and Coastbeat’s Elize Strydom how to make fresh Moroccan Mint Tea. Watch the video above and find the directions below.

The first 100 people to purchase a bag of tea from Red Sparrow Tea Company will receive a FREE Moroccan Mint Tea!

In Morocco, it is custom to serve guests mint tea on the arrival. In honour of this tradition we have combined organic spearmint, peppermint, gunpowder green tea and a sprinkle of rose petals, offering a lively and refreshing taste.  

The subtle sweet tones are perfectly balanced with the bold flavours of gunpowder green tea. Red Sparrow Moroccan mint tea can also be served chilled with a slice of lemon.

Ingredients

Two heaped teaspoons of Red Sparrow Moroccan Mint tea

Six-eight fresh spearmint or mint sprigs plus more to garnish

Five cups of boiling water 

Three tablespoons of caster sugar (or to taste)

Moroccan Mint Tea Method

Place teapot and pour in 1/2 cup of boiling water, swirl gently to warm the pot and rinse the tea.

Strain and discard this water, reserving the tea leaves in the pot. That first cup is very bitter which is why it is discarded.

Add the remaining water to the tea and let it steep for two minutes. 

Stir in the sugar and mint and let it steep for two-three minutes more.

If you have a traditional Moroccan teapot you will normally simmer it over heat before serving.

Serve in small heat proof glasses. If you fill each glass and tip it back in the pot this helps dissolve and distribute the sugar evenly.

You want a nice foam on the tea so always pour the teapot high above the glasses. 

If you do not have at least a little foam on the top of the first glass then pour it back and try again until the tea starts to foam up nicely. Garnish with fresh sprigs of mint.  

The traditional guidelines for serving mint tea are that the person preparing the tea is the only person to pour the pot until it is empty and that each glass is handed to the right.

Enjoy! And don’t forget, the first 100 people to purchase a bag of tea from Red Sparrow Tea Company will receive a FREE Moroccan Mint Tea sample!

The post Tea with B – Make Moroccan Mint Tea appeared first on Coastbeat.

“Think of it like an exercise program – the more regularly you work out, the better result you will have,” says Kimberley Duck, skin expert and endota educator. “Regular facials or massage treatments will continue to boost cell renewal and release stress in the body.” Right now, if you buy four treatments you will receive the fifth treatment for free.

When: Now…for a limited time 
Where: endota Spa, shop 127, Level 1 Coffs Central

https://endotaspa.com.au/coffs-harbour

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When:
Thursday, January 7-Sunday, January 10

Where:
A&I Hall, Station St, Bangalow

https://starlightfestival.com.au

The post Starlight Festival – Bangalow appeared first on Coastbeat.

When: Sunday, October 25, 3pm-5pm

Where: Rotary Community Hall, Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie

Book your place here.

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