Easter treats on the Sapphire Coast

The Sapphire Coast will be eggsactly perfect for family holiday fun this Easter

By Darren Stones

I remember the days—before Facebook and iPhones—when I’d peel back the foil paper of a neatly-wrapped chocolate Easter egg and begin to ponder its fate. Inevitably I’d begin playing with my food and go through the annual Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall ritual. Not surprisingly, Humpty would come crashing down and shatter into bite-size pieces and then I’d munch away to my heart’s content. A kid’s got to do what a kid’s got to do!

When it comes to entertaining your kids this Easter, the Sapphire Coast in New South Wales is the ideal place to take a holiday. With an abundance of kid-friendly things to do, it's time for mums and dads to make accommodation bookings in readiness for some terrific fun and games.

Merimbula Lake at low tide: Darren Stones

I’ve had Liz Swanton from Sapphire Coast Tourism on the case and she’s come up with some great Easter holiday ideas. “If your kids are captivated by critters, the Sapphire Coast offers fascination aplenty in the school holidays,” she said.

Liz says the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre at Eden is offering a tailored-to-you program of workshops themed ‘soft and squishy’, which is aimed at de-mystifying underwater creatures. For a group of four or more, the Centre will schedule a discovery session to fit your holiday timetable. Contact the Centre to book a time on phone: 02 6496 1699. http://www.sapphirecoastdiscovery.com.au/

Marine Discovery Tour: Sapphire Coast Tourism

Liz also informs that platypus, snakes and koalas are among the subjects covered by the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Discovery walks, talks and tours program. She suggests checking the Sapphire Coast website for more details and to book your adventure by calling 1300 361 606. http://www.sapphirecoast.com.au/

Here’s 10 more beaut ideas to add to your list:

• The Bega Cheese Heritage Centre is worth a visit to taste the region’s award-winning cheeses and find out more about the history of the dairy industry. http://www.begacheese.com.au/ 
• The Eden Killer Whale Museum is where you will discover the fascinating story of the whales that used to help the earliest settlers. http://www.killerwhalemuseum.com.au/

Old Tom, Eden Killer Whale Museum: Darren Stones

• The Montreal Goldfield at Bermagui has a fascinating history, as Australia’s only coastal goldfield. http://www.montrealgoldfield.org.au/  
• Youngsters will enjoy a visit to the Potoroo Palace. http://www.potoroopalace.com/  
• Peer into the 27 tanks at the Merimbula Wharf Aquarium. http://www.merimbulawharf.com.au/  

Merimbula Wharf: Darren Stones

• Spend some fun park hours at Magic Mountain. http://www.magicmountain.net.au/
• Mandeni Family Fun Park has over 400 acres to explore. http://www.mandeni.com.au/  
• Channel your inner soldier with a visit to Wolumla Paintball. http://wolumlapaintball.wetpaint.com/  
• Learn to surf with Coastlife Adventures, or if the adrenaline is still pumping, there are so many great trails to ride a mountain bike or a horse. http://www.coastlife.com.au/  
• Top Fun offers tenpin bowling, mini golf, video games and a kiosk for when the kids get the munchies. http://www.topfun.com.au/  

Mitchies Jetty, Merimbula: Darren Stones

The Visitor Information Centres on the Sapphire Coast are staffed by friendly locals who can assist you if you get stuck for further ideas. Some centres stock toys, and all have a large range of quality merchandise. For more information, check out the Sapphire Coast Tourism website. http://www.sapphirecoast.com.au/

Merimbula is more than a location – it’s where X marks the spot

By Darren Stones

The evening before a crisp, still morning of potentially fulfilling photography reinforces earlier thoughts of the likelihood of recording Mother Nature’s golden light. With the forecast looking promising, the idea of awakening early from a deep slumber is all the more pleasant given I’ve researched my location and used Google maps to my advantage.

Middle Beach – Merimbula, New South Wales, Australia
Photo: Darren Stones

Casting my mind back pre Google map days, I vividly recall relying more on guess work and vigorously scouting locations after travelling hundreds of kilometres for a keeper or two. But how times have changed for someone like me – a research nut who adores Mr Google’s invention and how it’s allowed me to place myself wherever I wish – almost.

Middle Beach – Merimbula, New South Wales, Australia
Photo: Darren Stones

When perched in my home office navigating the Monday to Friday grind and attempting to earn a razoo, I cast myself forward a month or two and begin dreaming of “Location, location, location.” My heart begins to race and a clear picture begins to form in my mind. I momentarily find myself imagining where X marks the spot, fiddling with f-stops between 8 and 16, and contemplating which filter to slide into the holder. Again I’m in dreamland and projecting myself forward into the future.

Excuse me for a little while as I’m craving to surf the web. I have another X spot to investigate.

Nature scenes from the Sapphire Coast

By Darren Stones

The Sapphire Coast in New South Wales remains a pristine environment. It's a popular holiday region which attracts nature lovers who like to get away from it all and enjoy walking along the beach and exploring some unique natural features.

During my most recent trip to the Sapphire Coast, I photographed The Pinnacles in the Ben Boyd National Park, Middle Beach at Merimbula, and Bournda Lagoon in the Bournda National Park. These areas are a great place to unwind and get back to nature.

You can license these images or purchase them as photographic print products. Business discounts are available. See Photography information page for full details.

Sapphire Coast Online Gallery

The Pinnacles
Photo: Darren Stones

Middle Beach, Merimbula
Photo: Darren Stones

Bournda Lagoon
Photo: Darren Stones

Sapphire Coast snapshot

By Darren Stones

Here’s a snapshot of what to do along the Sapphire Coast in New South Wales, Australia.

Eden: Head for the wharf and watch the unloading of the catch. You can meet strong blokes earning their keep who are happy to spin a fishy tale or two. Drop into the Eden Killer Whale Museum to see the skeleton of Old Tom and learn about what he got up to. Just out of town is Ben Boyd National Park where you can spot roos and take in the views.

Unloading the catch at Eden Wharf

Merimbula: Fancy burning some carbs? Then wander down to the boardwalk which follows the north shore of the Top Lake between the bridge and Top Lake Boat Hire. At Bar Beach, park the car in the top car park and enjoy the vista towards Mitchies Jetty. Merimbula Lake is a top spot to catch a fish, and if you’re keen, feel free to get in amongst them.

Merimbula Boardwalk

Bega: A trip to the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre is a must if you’re a taster of vintage. Arrive hungry because the samples are free and plentiful. Upstairs there’s lots of old stuff like a butter churner and restored cart, and a small art and craft gift shop. And if you visit during autumn, see the trees by the Bega River.

Autumn in Bega

Tathra: The Tathra Wharf is a great platform for deep sea fishing, but it’s also a beaut spot for a slice of cake and a cappuccino. One of the best places on the coast to catch a trevally and a soothing summer breeze. The main beach is great for a stroll and to watch the hard-bodied surfers in action.

Tathra Wharf

Bermagui: Rise and shine folks, and make for the Blue Pool. Arrive early with your togs on and watch a glorious sunrise. Then after lunch at the Bermagui Hotel, wander around to the harbour to check some high-priced water craft. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a bloke up a mast with a screwdriver in hand.

Bermagui Blue Pool

For more information: http://www.sapphirecoast.com.au/

Merimbula RSL bistro – budget meals and rich view

By Darren Stones

Holidays – what a great time to kick back and relax without having to cook and wash the dishes. RSLs by nature serve meals similar to what middle-class suburbanites eat at home, and it’s for this reason budget conscious travellers with a penchant for home-cooked meals dine at club bistros.

The Merimbula RSL has a laid-back, welcoming feel and its open-plan building provides views towards the scenic Merimbula Lake. The dining room is spacious with good space separating tables – ideal for those wanting a reasonably private chat.

Bronwyn and I were cheerfully greeted by a host and were swiftly guided with accompanying menus to our table by the window. We were politely asked if we’d dined here before (which we had) and were informed of the soup, roast and fish offerings of the day.

We admired the vista out the window, took a sip on our respective beverages and then it was down to a careful study of the menu. The entrees are of the usual fare; soup, garlic bread and prawns. But it’s the locally-grown oysters as an appetiser which seems to get top billing.

As usual, we bypass the starters and entrees – which ranged between $5.50 to $15.50 – and cast our eyes over the mains list.

The orders are taken at a dedicated counter area where the register is kept busy. It’s a hive of activity behind the servery with the chefs moving in sync. The service is smart, quick and professional. Runs like clockwork and meals keep getting churned out for the hungry patrons.

Looking down the menu, the following headings consisted of a variety of culinary options; fresh Pambula rock oysters (the usual kilpatrick gets a mention), pasta and risotto, pizzas, mains (which consisted of the ubiquitous roast of the day and chicken dishes), seafood, from the char-grill, and on and on it went until Sam’s chinese appeared. Oh, and the children’s menu was available for those 12 and under – that made me contemplate whether a 13-year-old is a child or not.

Being on a tight budget, we chose the roast of the day. It was lamb with roast vegetables. I chose the large size for $14.90 and Bronwyn ordered the small size for $9.90. Let’s be frank here, I’m glad I consumed a schooner of ale before feasting on the lukewarm plate of meat and veg because my appetite didn’t give way to wanting the dish warmer.

Nevertheless, it was the type of super-saver meal we were seeking and it satisfied the tummy grumbles. The bread rolls provided good filling and we enjoyed a good night out.
My advice: book a window table and enjoy the view, food and company.

Further information:
Merimbula RSL
52-54 Main Street
Merimbula NSW 3548
Phone: 02 6495 1502
http://www.merimbularsl.com.au/

Merimbula - pristine beaches and great climate

By Darren Stones

Located on the far south coast of New South Wales, Merimbula is a coastal town far enough from the big smoke to inspire hours of relaxation.

Merimbula Lake

Commence a stay by enjoying an ale or chardonnay whilst dining at one of the clubs or restaurants.

Merimbula is approximately 6 hours from Sydney, 7 hours from Melbourne and 3 hours from Canberra. Renowned for its fishing, sumptuous oysters and laid-back lifestyle, it’s a resort town catering to all budgets. Accommodation is varied with apartments and motels being popular amongst visitors.

Mitchies Jetty

With beaches suitable for surfing or those who have a young family, Merimbula provides them within easy reach. Designated walks offer gorgeous views of the lakes and meandering coastline.

Merimbula Boardwalk

Accommodation:

Albacore Resort
http://www.albacore.com.au/
Pelican Motor Inn
http://www.pelicanmotorinn.com.au/

Clubs:

Merimbula RSL
http://www.merimbularsl.com.au/
Merimbula-Imlay Bowling Club
http://www.merimbulabowlingclub.com.au/

Attraction:

Merimbula Wharf and Aquarium
http://www.merimbulawharf.com.au/

Merimbula Wharf

Ben Boyd National Park

By Darren Stones

Our recent trip to the Ben Boyd National Park in New South Wales, Australia has been fruitful. Here's a small sample of images taken in the park.

All Ben Boyd National Park images can be viewed in my stock photography gallery at Flickr here.

Click images to view larger size.

Entrance to Ben Boyd National Park

The Pinnacles Lookout

Walking track to Pinnacles Lookout

The Pinnacles

Sapphire Coast travels result in new imagery and interviews

By Darren Stones

During December 2008, we travelled to the Sapphire Coast region in New South Wales to shoot a new series of images for stock, gallery and editorial purposes.

One of the highlights of our trip was a visit to the Sapphire Coast's biggest community market at Candelo. I conducted interviews with locals and visitors in the Candelo Hotel, and as a result I've made new contacts for future story development.

Bobby McMahon, Nobby O'Brien & Kevin Slater - Candelo Hotel

We visited Quarantine Bay near Eden to witness Canberra-based fishermen return with their catch of the day.

Catch of the day - Quarantine Bay, Eden

We visited the north and south sections of Ben Boyd National Park for photographic shoots. The work contains new imagery of forested areas, wildlife, plants, lookouts, walking tracks, roads, information boards, buildings, rivers, etc.

Pinnacles Lookout - Ben Boyd National Park

I'm currently researching aspects of the Ben Boyd National Park with a view to returning in 2009 to conduct interviews with staff from the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Boyds Tower - Ben Boyd National Park

Trust you've enjoyed viewing this sample of photographs. More are being added to the Darren Stones Stock Photography library at Flickr for viewing.

I have a gallery at RedBubble and images there can be purchased as greeting cards, calendars, laminated prints, matted mounted prints and framed prints.

http://www.redbubble.com/people/dgstones

Inquiries are most welcome by email and phone.

Contact details here.

The stunning Sapphire Coast

By Darren Stones - Freelance Photojournalist

Australia is blessed with pristine beaches and coastal scenery that is to die for.

Sapphire Coast - by Darren Stones

The Sapphire Coast, located south of Sydney in New South Wales, Australia remains virtually untouched from development.

Bermagui - Horseshoe Bay

If you enjoy investigating national parks, love to wet a line, want to improve your suntan, sip a coffee by the sea, or catch a wave, then the Sapphire Coast is for you.

Tathra Wharf

Tathra Wharf

Tathra Wharf

Witness the unloading of the catch-of-the-day, visit a winery, taste award-winning cheeses, grab a bargain at a market, attend a festival, indulge in delectable oysters, go whale watching and take in some of the local history.

Merimbula - Long Point

The towns of Bermagui, Tathra, Bega, Merimbula, Pambula and Eden all have that bit of sapphire magic.

Eden - Seaside Pool

If you are looking for that get-away-from-it-all experience then let yourself go.

Merimbula Wharf

For more information log on to; http://www.sapphirecoast.com.au/

My portfolio of Sapphire Coast photographs can be viewed and purchased at RedBubble.com.

Bermagui Seaside Fair 2007

By Darren Stones - Freelance photojournalist

The 10th Bermagui Seaside Fair was held on Saturday 10 March 2007 and what a spectacular event it turned out to be. Thousands of locals from the region were proud as punch to partake and witness a fun-filled day of activities.

10th Bermagui Seaside Fair

Festivities commenced on the main wharf at the Bermagui Boat Harbour at 8am with the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony. Bishop Allan Ewing conducted the blessing and also addressed the gathering of locals regarding their continued dedication in making the annual festival a continued success.

Bishop Allan Ewing blessing the fleet

During the ceremony, the dapper dressed gentlemen from the Bermagui Probus Club Men’s Choir sang hymns, and other local singers and musicians performed.

Bermagui Probus Club Men’s Choir

The majority of events were conducted at the Dickinson Oval precinct and a large crowd attended.

Bermagui Seaside Fair announcer, June Tarlinton, said “They estimate there will be around 10,000 people and judging from what I’m seeing, I wouldn’t be surprised if they are fairly close to the mark.”

June Tarlinton - Fair Announcer

“The street parade is extremely popular," said June when referring to the amount of participants and spectators.

“The Bega Vintage Car Club has forty cars involved this year and they’ve never had this many ever. The way the cars have been restored is awesome.”

Hands are full

Well hello there

A real juggling act

As part of the fair each year the Bermagui Citizen of the Year is announced. This year's recipient of the award was Candy Craine, who was recognised for her tireless work in caring for sick and injured native animals on her property.

Candi Craine - Bermagui Citizen Of The Year 2007

June Tarlinton said “Candi Craine was nominated by persons within the community and she was a very worthy recipient of the award.”

“She has put a lot of effort into rehabilitating animals since the loss of her husband.”

Candi is also an avid photographer and she exhibited many of her quality wildlife photographs at the photographic exhibition at the Bermagui Country Club during the Seaside Fair.

Celebrity entertainers, Frankie J Holden and Michelle Pettigrove, were invited to perform and compere the Bermagui Idols competition. The competition catered for local talent and the performers came out in droves to strut their stuff on stage for the gathered throng.

Frankie J Holden & Michelle Pettigrove

Winner of the Bermagui Idol primary school age section was the highly talented nine-year-old Sophie Halliday, who performed a cover version of the song Who Knew by Pink. Judging for the competition was carried out in a novel way, and this was done by gauging the level of audience applause when each contestant’s name was announced.

When Sophie’s name was announced, the applause and screaming was deafening. You could have come to the conclusion that her family in attendance numbered 500. She was undoubtedly the star of this year’s Bermagui Idol competition.

Singer Sophie Halliday

Young local band, Overdrive, belted out a few tunes for the large and receptive crowd.

Overdrive

The street parade, sponsored by Australian regional and rural broadband internet provider, activ8me, was a roaring success as it made its way along the spectator-lined one kilometre stretch of Lamont Street.

activ8me staff

Colourful crowd

The Batemans Bay Soldiers Club Pipe Band lead the colourful parade which included floats representing local schools, various community groups, the Bega Vintage Car Club, SES and Rural Fire Service, Bermagui Surf Lifesaving Club members, Bermagui CWA and street performers.

Pipe Band Leader

Bermagui Nippers

Novelty events were conducted for kids, and kids at heart, with the Chuck-A-Tuna competition proving more than a handful for participants. A little bending of the rules by some was detected, however it all added to the fun and frivolity of the afternoon.

The Winners

Local Aboriginal dance group, Gulaga Dancers, were in attendance and performed traditional style dances for the crowd.

Gulaga Dancers

Carnival rides, a spectacular fireworks display in the evening over Horseshoe Bay, and a sandcastle competition were also part of the day’s festivities.

Sandcastle Competition Competitors

Dozens of stalls were erected on Dickinson Oval with stallholders exhibiting and selling local produce and products, advertising local and regional services and businesses, and supplying food and beverages for the masses.

Bermagui Surf Club Stall

On Endeavour Point Headland, Sculpture on the Edge featured sculptures by Alan Watt, Richard Moffatt, Michael Le Grand and the provocative Melbourne sculptor Greg Taylor.

Bermagui, approximate population 1120, is situated in the gorgeous Sapphire Coast region of New South Wales and is renowned as one of the best, if not the best, places for marlin fishing in Australia. It’s also home to a fishing fleet, and is close to Montague Island which hosts numerous animal species.

Catch Of The Day - Bermagui Wharf

Other local attractions in Bermagui are the scenic Horseshoe Bay, the Bermagui Boat Harbour where you can witness the unloading of the catch of the day, and the Bermagui Blue Pool.

Bermagui Blue Pool

The historic Bermagui Beach Hotel exhibits fishing memorabilia in the main bar, lounge and dining areas. It’s also a top spot for a soothing ale or lemonade. Meals are hearty and excellent value for money.

High quality accommodation at affordable rates is available at the Bermagui Beach Hotel and the ultra modern Harbourview Motel.

Bermagui is a friendly and scenic seaside town located 378 kilometres south of Sydney, Australia. Put it on your list of must see places - it's a gem.

Accommodation recommendations

Bermagui Beach Hotel

Harbourview Motel

Information

Sapphire Coast - Bermagui

Visit New South Wales - Bermagui

Bermagui Seaside Fair 2007