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Mid North Coast: Home | Our Towns | Nature | Attractions | Accommodation

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Our Towns
Karuah
Hawks Nest
Bulahdelah
Forster
Taree
Camden Haven
Wauchope
Port Macquarie
Kempsey
South West Rocks
All Pages

Towns and villages in the region covered by the
Mid North Coast iMag


karuah-overheadKaruah

A friendly and relaxed atmosphere welcomes when you discover the lure of Karuah. Enter into the magical, mysterious and hidden treasures of the Karuah Valley!

Enjoy the picturesque beauty and variety of activities that are on offer. Do you need somewhere quiet to rest, relax and let the children play?

  • Look no further than Karuah, conveniently located just off the Pacific Highway.
  • A short and enjoyable two hour drive north of Sydney.
  • Experience Karuah’s friendly and tranquil surroundings.
  • Let the children play in the safety of the tidal rock pool, while you sit back and unwind on the picturesque river bank.
  • Explore the sapphire water ways by boat. Bring your own, hire one or enjoy a river cruise.
  • The Karuah River flows through town, providing great scenery and beautiful places to have a family picnic.
  • Taste the famous Sydney rock oyster! Grown locally and known for its unique flavor.
  • Enjoy a game of Golf, walk along the rivers foreshore or one of the various forest walking trails.

 


Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens

Dolphins have fascinated people for centuries with their antics. Enjoy a day out, watching these hawksnest-picplayful creatures swim in the waters of the Myall Lakes.

Enjoy a meal out along the Tea Gardens foreshore. There is an excellent variety of restaurants and bistro settings giving you spectacular views of the river. These views feature abundant native birds such as pelicans, spoon-bills, egrets and even sea eagles.

  • Walk to the top of Yacaaba Headland for its views over Port Stephens and Myall Lakes.
  • Explore the many tracks around Mungo Brush.
  • Take the ferry at Bombah Point.
  • Visit and explore historic Stroud, with its many fine examples of colonial architecture.
  • Hire a houseboat and take a lazy cruise on the Bulahdelah River… catch some Bass while you’re at it.
  • Drive the Lakes Way around the lakes network of Smiths and Wallis Lakes.
  • Wax up your surfboard for some magnificent surfing and swimming.
  • Water-lovers’ paradise: Canoeing, boating, swimming and snorkelling are some of the sports enjoyed by visitors year-round on the wonderful Myall Lakes
  • Enjoy a picnic along the riverbank, a walk through the forest or a quiet stroll around the rolling sand-dunes.

Bulahdelah

Bulahdelah is located in an area of breathtaking natural Australian beauty.

Surrounded by National Parks, wonderful rural scenery, plus the waterways of the Great Lakes being located nearby.

Discover the natural wonder of the Australian Forest. Explore the various walking trails of the national parks.

Visit the historic sites of the town and the Old Courthouse. The old inn was a staging post for Cobb & Co. The Bulahdelah Logging Railway is a replica of the original.

There are roadhouses, restaurants and shops.

Watch the Bulahdelah Mountain in the background as you enjoy your meal.
Nabiac is a small country town north of Bulahdelah on the way to Taree via the Pacific Highway.


Forster–Tuncurry is situated in the north of the Great Lakes. 145 kilometres of pristine couple-picbeaches intrinsically linked to a rich rural hinterland stretching west to the foothills of the Great Western Divide. Covering over 3,300 square kilometres, one third of the total area is made up of National Parks and State Forests.  

Nestled within this majestic landscape is the glittering mosaic of waterways based around the Great Lakes network of: Myall, Smiths and Wallis Lakes. These have a total area four and one half times the size of Sydney Harbour. With such nature abounding it is not surprising that Great Lakes is so popular with tourists and a wide range of recreation users.

This natural beauty has also resulted in a growing permanent population base, with many attracted by the relaxed lifestyle the area can offer.


Taree is the cultural and entertainment centre for the Manning Valley. This thriving town has all the conveniences and amenities of the larger cities. Theatre, shopping, arts and crafts, restaurants, sports facilities, water sports, there is something for everyone.

National parks, forest drives and surrounding walking trails of the Manning Valley offer some of the most scenic attractions to be found on Australia's Mid North Coast.

Picnic and camping areas are available within the parks. Fishing and surfing are amongst the more popular activities with visitors.

Picnic with kangaroos in Crowdy Bay National Park, be dwarfed alongside very large Moreton Bay fig trees in Wingham Brush, unwind on a river cruise of discovery, laze on NSW’s cleanest beach and explore the historical villages and towns of the Manning Valley.

Camp with the kangaroos at Crowdy Bay National Park. View across the Manning Valley from Newbys or Flat Rock lookout

The Manning Valley offers 40km of coastline that include beautiful unpolluted beaches - reputed to be some of the best surfing beaches on the NSW North Coast. Beach areas include Halliday's Point, Wallabi Point, Old Bar and Harrington - all within a half hour drive from Taree.

The River and Rainforest Coast with white sandy beaches, majestic rivers, and an amazing hinterland awash with unspoilt beauty of national parks, rare rainforests, and spectacular natural features including

Experience the majesty of Ellenborough Falls - one of the southern hemisphere’s highest waterfalls. See the ancient Moreton Bay figs in Wingham Brush.

Absorb the thrilling coastline views from Crowdy Head lighthouse.

Enjoy fish and boat activities on the tranquil Manning River.

See Tapin Tops National Park north-west of Taree and views over the Manning hinterland.

Saltwater National Park: A significant place for the indigenous community.

Cruise the river or hire a boat from Manning Point marina.

Surf the best at Wallabi Point or Old Bar beaches.


Camden Havencamden-haven

At almost 500 metres above sea level, the views of the Camden Haven and surrounding regions from North Brother Mountain are nothing short of spectacular.

Stretching from the rugged escarpments and lush pastures of the Comboyne Plateau to the unspoilt beaches, rocky headlands and stunning views of the coastal strip between Bonny Hills and Diamond Head, the Camden Haven is within a 30 minute drive south of Port Macquarie.

The Camden Haven is renowned for its fishing and beaches, National Parks, State Forests, and outdoor lifestyle. Catch blackfish at Northern Breakwall, pick up a mud crab or two on Queens Lake or take a deep sea fishing charter; discover the rich fauna and flora in Kattang Nature Reserve and don’t miss magnificent North Brother Mountain. This region is a birdwatchers and bush walkers paradise.

It’s quite amazing, but you really can get almost anything you need in the Camden Haven!
Visit the Visitor Information Centre at Kew (open 7 days) for more information.

 


Wauchope

Find yourself on an uncrowded, life-guard-patrolled beach. Cruise serene rivers and waterways, at whatever speed takes your fancy. See migrating whales, pods of dolphins and koalas in their natural habitat. Explore remnant rainforests or the historic ruins of a colonial mansion. Discover the range of local markets, galleries, arts and crafts, and world-class wineries.

Enjoy delightful forest walks at Boorgana Nature Reserve in Comboyne - one of the oldest reserves in the state.

Take part in the pioneering activities at Wauchope’s Timbertown.

Pat a koala, feed the kangaroos and monkeys, or picnic on landscaped lawns at Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park.

Enjoy spectacular coastal views from majestic North Brother Mountain, rich in aboriginal folklore.
Take the coastal walkway along 15 pristine beaches

Fish, cruise or spot dolphins on the intricate inland waterways.
Visit NSW’s only Koala Hospital, where the koalas are fed twice daily
.
Set off on a camel safari along Lighthouse Beach.

Celebrate the thrill of a big catch on board a deep sea fishing charter.

Catch your breath after paragliding, waterskiing, kart racing, or horse riding through this picturesque district.



Port Macquariesurf

Cruise serene rivers and waterways.

See migrating whales, pods of dolphins and koalas in their natural habitat. Explore remnant rainforests or the historic ruins of a colonial mansion.

Discover the range of local markets, galleries, arts and crafts, and world-class wineries.

  • Enjoy delightful forest walks at Boorgana Nature Reserve in Comboyne.
  • Take part in the pioneering activities at Wauchope’s Timbertown.
  • Pat a koala, feed the kangaroos and monkeys, or picnic on landscaped lawns at Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park.
  • Enjoy spectacular coastal views from North Brother Mountain, rich in aboriginal folklore.
  • Take the coastal walkway along 15 pristine beaches.
  • Fish, cruise or spot dolphins on the intricate inland waterways.
  • Visit NSW’s only Koala Hospital, where koalas are fed twice daily.
  • Set off on a camel safari along Lighthouse Beach.
  • Celebrate the thrill of a big catch on board a deep sea fishing charter.

Catch your breath after paintball, waterskiing, kart racing, or horse riding through this picturesque district


Kempsey

Feel your muscles relax, breathe deeply, clear your mind, let your senses caress the wonderment of natural beauty and enjoy the core values shared by generations.

Then… come alive, rejuvenate… the Macleay Valley Coast has all you need. Appreciate it and it will appreciate you back!

Historic Trial Bay Gaol: overlooking aquamarine waters, numerous walks
and history abound.

Smoky Cape Lighthouse:sweeping views, opened
in 1891.

Hat Head National Park: numerous walks, drives (on beach included), rustic camping experiences.

Scenic Drive around South West Rocks: Horseshoe Bay Beach, Trial Bay Gaol, lighthouse and river.
Crescent Head Scenic Drive: rustic back roads.

Wigay Aboriginal Food Park: experience given by local aboriginals.

Slim Dusty Scenic Drive: Kempsey to Nulla Nulla, Slim Dusty’s childhood home.

Kempsey Visitor Information Centre: free video showings
on Akubra Hats and Slim Dusty.

 


 

South West Rocks

Historic Trial Bay Gaol is located in Arakoon State Recreation Area just a few kilometres from the lighthousecoastal town of South-West Rocks; being one of the most popular attractions on the mid north coast of NSW, with spectular scenery ranging from the gaol to the natural beauty of Trial Bay, the coast and beaches.

National Parks and Wildlife Service runs qualified discovery programs throughout Arakoon State Recreation Area, which include guided twilight tours of the gaol, spotlight walks and organised tours for school groups.

Twilight tours are held on the first Saturday of each month and holiday periods, and last approximately 1.5 hours, which includes a roam around the gaol museum.
trial-bay
Bookings are essential for all tours. Contact Arakoon State Recreation Area on 6566 6168, 7 days 9?am to 4.30?pm.
 
 
What's On

diary-web'What's On' May June 2010 on the Mid North Coast

 

 Sat 15

Alice’s Wonderland Ball

Throw caution to the wind and join us for a night of merriment and frivolity at Club

Forster. Tickets can be purchased at Holy Name School.

 

15-16 May

Annual Quilt & Craft Expo

A fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald Beach Houses located at Forster. This Exhibition

features quilts made by Forster Arts & Craft Society Members.

For more details on these or other Great Lakes Events, visit www.greatlakes.org.au or

freecall 1800 802 692

 

23 May

Slice of Haven

The Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce and Industry presents Slice Of Haven 2010.

The day will be a showcase of the best food and wine on offer in The Camden

Haven, Stay on to enjoy the Camden Haven Music Festival Finale concert

from 3pm to 5pm,10:30am - Laurieton United Servicemen’s Club Seymour Street,

Laurieton phone 02 6559 9110.

 

5 June

Bellingen New Energy Festival

 The Bellingen New Energy Festival is an annual event, showcasing environmental innovation and information.

The program includes key-note speakers, workshops, kids activities, and live music -

all around the theme of sustainability. Community groups and local businesses

will be demonstrating all the ideas, products and services that can help reduce

our carbon footprint and lead to a better future. Entry is by donation and times are

8:30am - 3:30pm. Bellingen Showground

www.energyfestival.org

 June 2010 Events ......

Sat 5 & Sun 6

NSW COUNTRY JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010

See the big names of the future representing their local area. This competition has the best of Country Rugby League playing at Tuncurry Sports Complex.

 

11 - 13 June

PACIFIC PALMS ART FESTIVAL

This is the 18th Annual Art Festival with works received from the local and the wider community of artists with prize money over $5000 this year.  Opening night on Fri 11 is always a great social event.

 

12 -  13 June

ORCHID SHOW

Many varieties of orchids on display showing off the intricacies of this spectacular and popular flower. Entry is FREE. Open from 9am - 4pm at the Forster Primary School.

 

13 June

MID COAST FORD MOTORFEST 2010

View all types of early model transport at this Great Lakes Historic Automobile Club Annual Motorfest. Free entry at John Wright Park Tuncurry from 9am - 12.30pm

 

11 - 14 June

ANNUAL OPEN & JUNIOR TENNIS TOURNAMENT

Tuncurry Twin Towns Tennis Club is host once again to this prestigious tournament. Sponsored by the Bellevue Hotel Motel with over $5000 in cash and prizes up for grabs. 

 For more details on these or other Great Lakes Events, visit www.greatlakes.org.au or freecall 1800 802 692

 

11-14 June

Port Stephens Blue Water Country Music Festival    

The Port Stephens Blue Water Country Music Festival will host the Blue Dolphin Awards for singer/songwriters (18 – 30 years) plus Blue Water Busking Titles, Twilight Dinner Cruises, Bootscootin’, Country Music Winery Tours and much more at www.bluewatercountrymusic.com.au .Programs available from Nelson Bay Town Management.

Contact Details:  Nelson Bay Town Management (02) 49844751 www.bluewatercountrymusic.com.au

 

12 - 13 June 

Camden Haven Orchid Society's Winter Show

Camden Haven Orchid Society will present their Winter Show for 2010. There will be a wide variety of spectacular orchids on display, friendly advice on orchid culture with potting demonstrations.

For More info - Shirley on 02 6585 5509 or email - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

13 June

Port Stephens -Blue Water Ute Muster    

In conjunction with the Blue Water Country Music Festival, Down Under Country & BNS Club have been given the opportunity to hold a Ute Muster from 10.30am to 4pm. Venue: Apex Park, Nelson Bay email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 0428567877.

13- 14

Port Macquarie - Dragonboat Regatta

Come join in the fun of the Annual Dragonboat Regatta, this June long weekend. Watch business and community team’s race on the Hastings River at McInherney Park. Entry is free so come and enjoy the day and watch the fastest growing sport in Australia.

Contact Jo Herring by phone on 0409 456 228 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for further information.

14 June

Orara Valley Fair

Come one come all to the Orara Valley Fair. Bring a blanket or chair and stay for the day.

Wood chopping, working machinery display, great entertainment and delicious food and market stalls.

There are also tractor-drawn hay rides, children's rides and a baby animal feeding zoo.

10am to 4pm, Orara Recreation Reserve on Dairyville Road

For more information, 66538355 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

17 June

JON Stevens and Daryl Braithwaite - Coffs Harbour  

The pair is set to embark on selected dates together in June and will bringing "The Hits Tour" to Coffs Ex-Services Club  on June 17. Tickets available from Coffs Ex-Services Club

Vernon Street Coffs Harbour (02) 6652 3888

 

20  - 19 June

Coffs Coast 4WD Caravan Camping and Boat Show 

The Coffs Coast 4WD, Caravan, Camping & Boat Show will be staged for the seventh consecutive year at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club between 10 & 4 daily.

This year around 70 caravans will be on display.  There will be a huge representation from the camper trailer and slide-on manufacturers.

2010 will also see our biggest ever display of boats & outboards plus a huge range of kayaks & watercraft.

Coffs Harbour Racing Club

Adults, $10, Concession $8 & Students $5, Family $25 (2 adults & up to 4 kids).