Madeleine’s guidebook for Valla, NSW
Sightseeing
Valla Beach
Overview
Valla Beach lies to the north of Nambucca Heads. This small coastal community is a very popular tourist destination with its caravan parks, camping and the Valla Beach Tourist Park. There are fantastic markets on the first Sunday of February, April, June, August, October and December.
Valla Beach is accessed via Giinagay Way and is 10 kilometres north of Nambucca Heads.
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Valla Beach
Valla Beach
Overview
Valla Beach lies to the north of Nambucca Heads. This small coastal community is a very popular tourist destination with its caravan parks, camping and the Valla Beach Tourist Park. There are fantastic markets on the first Sunday of February, April, June, August, October and December.
Valla Beach is accessed via Giinagay Way and is 10 kilometres north of Nambucca Heads.
Nambucca Heads is abundant with natural beauty
From uncrowded beaches to the sparkling estuary where dolphins play, Nambucca Heads will catapult you into a real-life postcard. Less than five minutes off the Pacific Highway, the relaxed, seaside town of Nambucca Heads lies at the mouth of the Nambucca River.
The name ‘Nambucca’ is derived from the Gumbaynggirr word meaning ‘entrance to the waters’ or ‘crooked river’. The beaches and river lure anglers, surfers, swimmer, boaties and photographers alike. Many lookouts offering breath-taking views are dotted along the headlands – views to South West Rocks to the south, almost to Coffs Harbour to the north and west along the river to the mountains.
Top five experiences:
1. Fabulous coastal scenery awaits those who wind their way down to the headland or take a walk along the outdoor art gallery known locally as the V-Wall. Take a stroll along a series of boardwalks that wind along and over the water to the river entrance, with storyboards highlighting historical sites. Drop your fishing line in along the way and see if you can catch dinner!
2. Clean, uncrowded and inviting, surf and river beaches such as Shelly, Beilby and Main Beach are popular all year round. Main Beach in patrolled throughout the summer school holidays and at weekends between October and Easter. Nearby Swimming Creek Beach is dog friendly.
3. Hire a boat, kayak or stand up paddle board and explore the Nambucca River. Put on a snorkel and discover the underwater world. Well over 90 species of marine creatures call Nambucca River home, including tropical fish, dolphins and turtles.
4. Discover a delicious range of restaurants and cafes amongst boutique shops along the main street, as well as the Nambucca Heads street mosaic, which tells the tale of the Nambucca River.
5. Play golf on an island golf course. Possibly the only golf club in the world surrounded by water, this challenging 18-hole golf course is set on Stuart Island in the Nambucca River. With views across the river and out to the ocean, abundant birdlife and exceptional cuisine, it is popular even with non-golfers.
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Nambucca Heads
Nambucca Heads is abundant with natural beauty
From uncrowded beaches to the sparkling estuary where dolphins play, Nambucca Heads will catapult you into a real-life postcard. Less than five minutes off the Pacific Highway, the relaxed, seaside town of Nambucca Heads lies at the mouth of the Nambucca River.
The name ‘Nambucca’ is derived from the Gumbaynggirr word meaning ‘entrance to the waters’ or ‘crooked river’. The beaches and river lure anglers, surfers, swimmer, boaties and photographers alike. Many lookouts offering breath-taking views are dotted along the headlands – views to South West Rocks to the south, almost to Coffs Harbour to the north and west along the river to the mountains.
Top five experiences:
1. Fabulous coastal scenery awaits those who wind their way down to the headland or take a walk along the outdoor art gallery known locally as the V-Wall. Take a stroll along a series of boardwalks that wind along and over the water to the river entrance, with storyboards highlighting historical sites. Drop your fishing line in along the way and see if you can catch dinner!
2. Clean, uncrowded and inviting, surf and river beaches such as Shelly, Beilby and Main Beach are popular all year round. Main Beach in patrolled throughout the summer school holidays and at weekends between October and Easter. Nearby Swimming Creek Beach is dog friendly.
3. Hire a boat, kayak or stand up paddle board and explore the Nambucca River. Put on a snorkel and discover the underwater world. Well over 90 species of marine creatures call Nambucca River home, including tropical fish, dolphins and turtles.
4. Discover a delicious range of restaurants and cafes amongst boutique shops along the main street, as well as the Nambucca Heads street mosaic, which tells the tale of the Nambucca River.
5. Play golf on an island golf course. Possibly the only golf club in the world surrounded by water, this challenging 18-hole golf course is set on Stuart Island in the Nambucca River. With views across the river and out to the ocean, abundant birdlife and exceptional cuisine, it is popular even with non-golfers.
Explore Yarriabini National Park
Explore Yarriabini National Park on a school excursion or day trip. Enjoy spectacular coastal views, a rainforest walk or a scenic drive, as well several great birdwatching and picnicking spots
Lush rainforest, clear bubbling creeks, tranquil picnic spots and spectacular coastal views are just a snapshot of what you’ll find at Yarriabini National Park. A short scenic drive from Nambucca Heads and Kempsey, it provides an ideal day trip for the whole family.
Don’t miss the spectacular views from Yarriabini lookout, where you’ll get expansive views over Macleay Valley and Trial Bay. Take the popular car touring route along Way Way Creek Road to The Pines picnic area and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by vibrant green rainforest. Admire the Aboriginal artwork and learn about the significance of this area to local Aboriginal people.
Pack your mountain bike and cycle through tall forests and across Bangalow palm-lined creeks on Way Way Creek Road. And for those who enjoy birdwatching, you’ll find a colourful array of birdlife. Look out for square-tailed kites, rainforest pigeons and glossy black-cockatoos.
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Yarriabini National Park
Explore Yarriabini National Park
Explore Yarriabini National Park on a school excursion or day trip. Enjoy spectacular coastal views, a rainforest walk or a scenic drive, as well several great birdwatching and picnicking spots
Lush rainforest, clear bubbling creeks, tranquil picnic spots and spectacular coastal views are just a snapshot of what you’ll find at Yarriabini National Park. A short scenic drive from Nambucca Heads and Kempsey, it provides an ideal day trip for the whole family.
Don’t miss the spectacular views from Yarriabini lookout, where you’ll get expansive views over Macleay Valley and Trial Bay. Take the popular car touring route along Way Way Creek Road to The Pines picnic area and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by vibrant green rainforest. Admire the Aboriginal artwork and learn about the significance of this area to local Aboriginal people.
Pack your mountain bike and cycle through tall forests and across Bangalow palm-lined creeks on Way Way Creek Road. And for those who enjoy birdwatching, you’ll find a colourful array of birdlife. Look out for square-tailed kites, rainforest pigeons and glossy black-cockatoos.
Scotts Head is a really special place
Perfectly positioned between Sydney and Brisbane and an hour’s drive south of Coffs Harbour. Scotts Head offers prime beachfront position in a tiny coastal village at the southern end of the Nambucca Shire.
Go for a swim or a snorkel in the crystal-clear water. Head out with the surfboard into the amazing waves, then watch the sunset from the famous whale tail table. Enjoy dinner at the bowling club followed by a tranquil moonlit walk on the sand with your nearest and dearest.
Settle in, then set about exploring this stunning coastal playground. Wander across the road and enjoy the village atmosphere of Scotts Head. Stroll past the surf club to the lookout and watch for the whales. Or simply take a load off and do nothing at all.
Whether it’s a long earned vacation away from your usual surroundings, a getaway to the beach, time away with the family, Scotts Head is an idyllic seaside village located centrally in the beautiful and popular holiday destination of the NSW Mid North Coast and is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Scotts Head is conveniently located midway between Sydney and Brisbane. Perfect for an overnight rest (only 11 kms off the Hwy) near Macksville.
With no real winter and sheltered from the wind this location is perfect all year round. The iconic Scotts Head Point is there for boardriders and SUP surfers alike. If you prefer still water; you will enjoy swimming in the patrolled safety of the Mediterranean like bay. Fishing may be your pastime; the rock and beach fishing are second to none.
Go exploring
There are also tracks along the headlands surrounding these beaches which are ideal for exploration, or sitting somewhere secluded and watching the world go by.
Nestled between Big Beach and Little Beach can be found the Reserve day use area with covered eating areas ideal for picnics, or you can cook for yourself on one of the free sheltered BBQ facilities. There is adequate car parking, toilet and shower facilities.
Other recreational amenities in Scotts Head include lawn bowls, 2 tennis courts, two ovals, one with a cricket pitch and practice batting cage, netball/basketball court and just for the kids there is outstanding play ground equipment at the Reserve, and Vernon St oval.
This beautiful, relaxing coastal town has always been a popular destination for visitors & locals alike, located just minutes from the motorway with several beaches to choose from there is something for everyone. From the expansive sands of Scotts Head Main beach, to the hidden gems that are little beach and Waikki beach, there are always perfect spots for picnics, reconnecting with nature on coastal & headland walks, swimming, surfing, body boarding, paddle boarding, snorkeling, fishing, whale watching from the headland, all family friendly – the opportunities are endless.
There are many four wheel drive tracks to explore in the area including Yarriabini national park where you will find the spectacular Yarrahapinni Mountain lookout along with The Pines picnic area in amongst the rainforest canopy with many bushwalks to undertake. So, what are you waiting for? Take the road less travelled and visit the undiscovered coast – you won’t be disappointed!
Top experiences
Surfing at Main Beach
Headland Walk
Yarriabini National Park
Fishing
Coffee at a Cafe
Lawn Bowls
Warrell Creek
Camping
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Scotts Head
Scotts Head is a really special place
Perfectly positioned between Sydney and Brisbane and an hour’s drive south of Coffs Harbour. Scotts Head offers prime beachfront position in a tiny coastal village at the southern end of the Nambucca Shire.
Go for a swim or a snorkel in the crystal-clear water. Head out with the surfboard into the amazing waves, then watch the sunset from the famous whale tail table. Enjoy dinner at the bowling club followed by a tranquil moonlit walk on the sand with your nearest and dearest.
Settle in, then set about exploring this stunning coastal playground. Wander across the road and enjoy the village atmosphere of Scotts Head. Stroll past the surf club to the lookout and watch for the whales. Or simply take a load off and do nothing at all.
Whether it’s a long earned vacation away from your usual surroundings, a getaway to the beach, time away with the family, Scotts Head is an idyllic seaside village located centrally in the beautiful and popular holiday destination of the NSW Mid North Coast and is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Scotts Head is conveniently located midway between Sydney and Brisbane. Perfect for an overnight rest (only 11 kms off the Hwy) near Macksville.
With no real winter and sheltered from the wind this location is perfect all year round. The iconic Scotts Head Point is there for boardriders and SUP surfers alike. If you prefer still water; you will enjoy swimming in the patrolled safety of the Mediterranean like bay. Fishing may be your pastime; the rock and beach fishing are second to none.
Go exploring
There are also tracks along the headlands surrounding these beaches which are ideal for exploration, or sitting somewhere secluded and watching the world go by.
Nestled between Big Beach and Little Beach can be found the Reserve day use area with covered eating areas ideal for picnics, or you can cook for yourself on one of the free sheltered BBQ facilities. There is adequate car parking, toilet and shower facilities.
Other recreational amenities in Scotts Head include lawn bowls, 2 tennis courts, two ovals, one with a cricket pitch and practice batting cage, netball/basketball court and just for the kids there is outstanding play ground equipment at the Reserve, and Vernon St oval.
This beautiful, relaxing coastal town has always been a popular destination for visitors & locals alike, located just minutes from the motorway with several beaches to choose from there is something for everyone. From the expansive sands of Scotts Head Main beach, to the hidden gems that are little beach and Waikki beach, there are always perfect spots for picnics, reconnecting with nature on coastal & headland walks, swimming, surfing, body boarding, paddle boarding, snorkeling, fishing, whale watching from the headland, all family friendly – the opportunities are endless.
There are many four wheel drive tracks to explore in the area including Yarriabini national park where you will find the spectacular Yarrahapinni Mountain lookout along with The Pines picnic area in amongst the rainforest canopy with many bushwalks to undertake. So, what are you waiting for? Take the road less travelled and visit the undiscovered coast – you won’t be disappointed!
Top experiences
Surfing at Main Beach
Headland Walk
Yarriabini National Park
Fishing
Coffee at a Cafe
Lawn Bowls
Warrell Creek
Camping
Dorrigo National Park
Overview
Dorrigo National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, offers stunning scenery that's been millions of years in the making. The park has a range of forest environments that protect an enormous variety of animals and birds. You might spot red-necked pademelons, the vibrantly coloured wompoo fruit-dove, or the spectacular regent bowerbird.
A great day trip from Coffs Harbour, you can go birdwatching, relax at scenic picnic and barbecue spots, explore secret waterfalls and rainforest walks, and be amazed by the views from the elevated walk which looks all the way from the forest to the sea. Be sure to stop in at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Canopy Cafe.
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Dorrigo National Park
Lyrebird LinkDorrigo National Park
Overview
Dorrigo National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, offers stunning scenery that's been millions of years in the making. The park has a range of forest environments that protect an enormous variety of animals and birds. You might spot red-necked pademelons, the vibrantly coloured wompoo fruit-dove, or the spectacular regent bowerbird.
A great day trip from Coffs Harbour, you can go birdwatching, relax at scenic picnic and barbecue spots, explore secret waterfalls and rainforest walks, and be amazed by the views from the elevated walk which looks all the way from the forest to the sea. Be sure to stop in at the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and Canopy Cafe.
Smoky Cape Walking Track
Overview
Experience one of the largest remnants of unique littoral rainforest on the New South Wales coast on this moderately challenging hike. Smoky Cape walking track is a 4.4-kilometre track that forms part of the longer Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk in the northern precinct of Hat Head National Park.
The track starts at Captain Cook's lookout, where you can take in the spectacular views along the coast. Leading along ridges and down gullies behind North Smoky Beach, you’ll meander through dense rainforest of cabbage tree palms and lush ferns. Keep an eye out for epiphytic orchids and swallow-tailed butterflies. Swamp wallabies and red-necked wallabies are often seen darting through the undergrowth.
Stop for a picnic break along the way and soak up the tranquil setting. If you’re not ready to turn back, the optional Green Island walking track is excellent for birdwatching.
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South West Rocks
Smoky Cape Walking Track
Overview
Experience one of the largest remnants of unique littoral rainforest on the New South Wales coast on this moderately challenging hike. Smoky Cape walking track is a 4.4-kilometre track that forms part of the longer Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk in the northern precinct of Hat Head National Park.
The track starts at Captain Cook's lookout, where you can take in the spectacular views along the coast. Leading along ridges and down gullies behind North Smoky Beach, you’ll meander through dense rainforest of cabbage tree palms and lush ferns. Keep an eye out for epiphytic orchids and swallow-tailed butterflies. Swamp wallabies and red-necked wallabies are often seen darting through the undergrowth.
Stop for a picnic break along the way and soak up the tranquil setting. If you’re not ready to turn back, the optional Green Island walking track is excellent for birdwatching.
Little Bay to Smoky Cape Walk
Overview
If you’re an adventurous walker, you’ll love the Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk.
This 10 kilometre coastal track begins near Little Bay picnic area in Arakoon National Park, near Kempsey on the north coast of NSW. Start at historic Overshot Dam, where you can feed the ducks before setting off. Then simply follow the ridge to The Gap Beach and Smoky Cape tracks.
As you walk you’ll come across beautiful, diverse scenery including heathland, rainforest and grassy woodland. Depending on the season, you might see wildflower displays or spot whales from the cliffs.
When you arrive at Smoky Cape, head to Captain Cook’s lookout for a picnic lunch and a tour of the lighthouse. Or you can always do the walk in reverse and finish at the picnic area at Little Bay.
Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Overview
Standing high on a narrow headland, Smoky Cape Lighthouse is surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery of Hat Head National Park. The lighthouse itself is as beautiful as the views check out its winding staircase and octagonal tower.
Built in 1891, this heritage lighthouse is one of the last designed by the Colonial Architect, James Barnet. Smoky Cape headland was so named by Captain Cook after he saw Aboriginal fires burning there in 1770.
Smoky Cape is a fantastic spot for whale watching, birdwatching and picnicking, and you can stay overnight at the lighthouse keepers' cottage. Don't miss the views at nearby Captain Cook's lookout.
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Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Lighthouse RoadLittle Bay to Smoky Cape Walk
Overview
If you’re an adventurous walker, you’ll love the Little Bay to Smoky Cape walk.
This 10 kilometre coastal track begins near Little Bay picnic area in Arakoon National Park, near Kempsey on the north coast of NSW. Start at historic Overshot Dam, where you can feed the ducks before setting off. Then simply follow the ridge to The Gap Beach and Smoky Cape tracks.
As you walk you’ll come across beautiful, diverse scenery including heathland, rainforest and grassy woodland. Depending on the season, you might see wildflower displays or spot whales from the cliffs.
When you arrive at Smoky Cape, head to Captain Cook’s lookout for a picnic lunch and a tour of the lighthouse. Or you can always do the walk in reverse and finish at the picnic area at Little Bay.
Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Overview
Standing high on a narrow headland, Smoky Cape Lighthouse is surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery of Hat Head National Park. The lighthouse itself is as beautiful as the views check out its winding staircase and octagonal tower.
Built in 1891, this heritage lighthouse is one of the last designed by the Colonial Architect, James Barnet. Smoky Cape headland was so named by Captain Cook after he saw Aboriginal fires burning there in 1770.
Smoky Cape is a fantastic spot for whale watching, birdwatching and picnicking, and you can stay overnight at the lighthouse keepers' cottage. Don't miss the views at nearby Captain Cook's lookout.
Some of the best whale watching in town! Nambucca Heads has many lookouts and this one is not to be missed. There is a large parking area, with a picnic shelter with views to the beach. Since our last visit they have installed a raised walkway leading to a viewing platform where you get great views along the coast looking north and south.
Lions lookout
Some of the best whale watching in town! Nambucca Heads has many lookouts and this one is not to be missed. There is a large parking area, with a picnic shelter with views to the beach. Since our last visit they have installed a raised walkway leading to a viewing platform where you get great views along the coast looking north and south.
Stunning 1KM walk on the ocean. The Urunga Boardwalk has to be one of the best boardwalks on the east coast, with spectacular views from the entire length of the boardwalk.
Starting from the charming town of Urunga, the boardwalk passes along the banks of the Kalang River, to the junction with the Bellinger River and out to the ocean, with stunning views inland past Urunga town and up the river valleys to the Great Dividing Range, north across the rivers to Mylestom Spit and south along the beach to Picket Hill and beyond to Nambucca Heads.
The entire length of the boardwalk is wheelchair accessible. There are numerous rest areas with seating, as well as many interpretive signs along the boardwalk pointing out items of interest and telling the history of the area.
The boardwalk leads you to the the leash free pet friendly beach area to the south of the river mouth.
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Urunga Boardwalk
Stunning 1KM walk on the ocean. The Urunga Boardwalk has to be one of the best boardwalks on the east coast, with spectacular views from the entire length of the boardwalk.
Starting from the charming town of Urunga, the boardwalk passes along the banks of the Kalang River, to the junction with the Bellinger River and out to the ocean, with stunning views inland past Urunga town and up the river valleys to the Great Dividing Range, north across the rivers to Mylestom Spit and south along the beach to Picket Hill and beyond to Nambucca Heads.
The entire length of the boardwalk is wheelchair accessible. There are numerous rest areas with seating, as well as many interpretive signs along the boardwalk pointing out items of interest and telling the history of the area.
The boardwalk leads you to the the leash free pet friendly beach area to the south of the river mouth.
Food scene
Cafe Life
Nourish Cafe and Grocer
Open seven days for breakfast & lunch. Dinner Friday and Saturday as well as more nights in the holidays and through summer. A popular breakfast spot with plenty of healthy options, plus all that you would expect at a coastal cafe with gourmet burgers and fish & chips. Make sure you leave room for a home made treat, and take home something readily prepared for dinner. The space is perfect for large groups and functions. Coffee is from Merlo made with love by the talented baristas, lots of smoothies, milkshakes and specialty drinks on offer too.
Gluten & dairy free options are available, and chefs are happy to make alterations to suit your requirements. Watch out for the new summer cocktail menu to be launched soon.
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Nourish Cafe & Grocer
35 Valla Beach RdCafe Life
Nourish Cafe and Grocer
Open seven days for breakfast & lunch. Dinner Friday and Saturday as well as more nights in the holidays and through summer. A popular breakfast spot with plenty of healthy options, plus all that you would expect at a coastal cafe with gourmet burgers and fish & chips. Make sure you leave room for a home made treat, and take home something readily prepared for dinner. The space is perfect for large groups and functions. Coffee is from Merlo made with love by the talented baristas, lots of smoothies, milkshakes and specialty drinks on offer too.
Gluten & dairy free options are available, and chefs are happy to make alterations to suit your requirements. Watch out for the new summer cocktail menu to be launched soon.
Beach House Providore
The Beach House Providore provides always great coffee, fresh local produce, delicious take-away and a relaxed beach vibe that doesn’t care if you’re wearing shoes or just wrapped in a towel on your way home from a swim in the ocean.
A short stroll from the ocean shores at Valla beach, across the road from a family friendly park and less then 10 minutes detour of the highway, The Beach house makes the ideal stop off for your family.
Come and chill, but be warned you may never want to leave the beautiful surrounds of the mid north coast.
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The Beach House Providore
4 Thompson StBeach House Providore
The Beach House Providore provides always great coffee, fresh local produce, delicious take-away and a relaxed beach vibe that doesn’t care if you’re wearing shoes or just wrapped in a towel on your way home from a swim in the ocean.
A short stroll from the ocean shores at Valla beach, across the road from a family friendly park and less then 10 minutes detour of the highway, The Beach house makes the ideal stop off for your family.
Come and chill, but be warned you may never want to leave the beautiful surrounds of the mid north coast.
Za'atar Bellingen - Israeli Street Food
Modern Middle Eastern cheap eats in the heart of Bellingen is what you will get with a visit to Za'atar.
With an affordable selection of falafel, hummus, pitta rolls, dips and salads to choose from, Za'atar is a popular stop for locals and budget savvy travellers, whether they are stopping for a Turkish coffee, quick snack or shareable feast.
Open 7-days a week - 11:30am to 7pm
66 Hyde Street, Bellingen NSW
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Za'atar Bellingen
66 Hyde StZa'atar Bellingen - Israeli Street Food
Modern Middle Eastern cheap eats in the heart of Bellingen is what you will get with a visit to Za'atar.
With an affordable selection of falafel, hummus, pitta rolls, dips and salads to choose from, Za'atar is a popular stop for locals and budget savvy travellers, whether they are stopping for a Turkish coffee, quick snack or shareable feast.
Open 7-days a week - 11:30am to 7pm
66 Hyde Street, Bellingen NSW
The best food van in town! Every Friday Night from 4:30pm - 8pm. Get there early or check them out online and order so you don't miss out!
Mia Piccolina
The best food van in town! Every Friday Night from 4:30pm - 8pm. Get there early or check them out online and order so you don't miss out!
Markets & Festivals
Held every 3rd Saturday of the month we showcase a large and unique range of art and craft, handmade and grown, clothing, shoes, textiles, homewares, bric-n-brac, 2nd hand, recycled, upcycled, jewellery, pottery, metal/wood/glass work, candles, soaps, honey, fresh produce, plants, flowers, alternative therapies and various community groups join us.
Taste a cultural smorgasbord of delicious food and drinks, while listening to fantastic live music on the stage from 10am-2.30pm and check out the many talented buskers around park.
Markets and festivals
With a vibrant community of farmer’s and artisans, Bellingen celebrates its creativity with bustling market and festivals. The Bellingen Farmers & Produce Market are held each week in the Bellingen Showgrounds and the Bellingen Community Markets is on the third Saturday of the month.
Time your holiday on the mid NSW North Coast with one of the many cultural events. The Bellingen Fine Music Festival is a classical music gala in September. The eclectic Bello Winter Music Festival is in July. Book lovers can rejoice too with the popular Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival in June.
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Bellingen Community Markets
Church StreetHeld every 3rd Saturday of the month we showcase a large and unique range of art and craft, handmade and grown, clothing, shoes, textiles, homewares, bric-n-brac, 2nd hand, recycled, upcycled, jewellery, pottery, metal/wood/glass work, candles, soaps, honey, fresh produce, plants, flowers, alternative therapies and various community groups join us.
Taste a cultural smorgasbord of delicious food and drinks, while listening to fantastic live music on the stage from 10am-2.30pm and check out the many talented buskers around park.
Markets and festivals
With a vibrant community of farmer’s and artisans, Bellingen celebrates its creativity with bustling market and festivals. The Bellingen Farmers & Produce Market are held each week in the Bellingen Showgrounds and the Bellingen Community Markets is on the third Saturday of the month.
Time your holiday on the mid NSW North Coast with one of the many cultural events. The Bellingen Fine Music Festival is a classical music gala in September. The eclectic Bello Winter Music Festival is in July. Book lovers can rejoice too with the popular Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival in June.
Bellingen Farmers Market
Overview
Weekly fresh food market held each Wednesday at Bellingen Park, Church Street, next to the tennis courts. Authentic farmers and producer market of all local only fresh fruit, herbs, and vegetables, meats and seafood. Micro-greens, organic sourdough bread, pasta, nourishing snacks, meals, fermented foods, jams, chutneys, medicinal foods, hot and cold beverages, and live entertainment.
Wheelchair accessible and loads of parking within close walking distance of the market.
Bellingen Growers Market
5 Black StBellingen Farmers Market
Overview
Weekly fresh food market held each Wednesday at Bellingen Park, Church Street, next to the tennis courts. Authentic farmers and producer market of all local only fresh fruit, herbs, and vegetables, meats and seafood. Micro-greens, organic sourdough bread, pasta, nourishing snacks, meals, fermented foods, jams, chutneys, medicinal foods, hot and cold beverages, and live entertainment.
Wheelchair accessible and loads of parking within close walking distance of the market.
Every Thursday from 2:30pm - 5:30PM
ABOUT time is how locals responded to the launch of Nambucca Farmers Market.
It’s a new weekly fresh food and home-made goods market at Gordon Park, Nambucca Heads every Thursday from 2.30 to 5.30p,, “with the best time to come being between 2.30-4pm”, Jane Smith, market coordinator, told News Of The Area.
The market made a modest first appearance on Thursday 29 June and in the past three weeks has been flourishing.
“On the first market day we had six stalls and a hope and a prayer that the community would come and support it, and by 3pm mostly everything was sold out.
“It was such a relief that it was so successful,” said Jane.
Confidence in the venture was established and now the market has regular bookings for all ten allocated stalls and is attracting new stall holders. Looking ahead Jane said, “we have had such great feedback and attendance that our next step is working with council to be able to have an additional 10 stalls”. Jane and her wife Kristy Bland own local foodie café Matilda’s and enjoy a friendly relationship with their customers and the community. They were keen for a new project that fitted with their caring community values.
“The team and I at Matilda’s were brainstorming what we could do to support the village that we work and live in, like sponsoring a sports team for example, and we came up with the idea of a farmers’ market.
“As a business we would love to use valley-grown produce as much as possible and personally we all want to help grow the local food economy,” she said. They set about planning and liaising with Nambucca Valley Council.
“The council welcomed the idea with open arms and really worked with us to make it happen,” she said. Equally supportive were the local producers and growers in providing their advice, “and taking a chance on us”, she said.
“I honestly can’t thank the stall holders who attended our first market enough.
“It’s only because of them and the variety of produce they were able to bring that I think this market will be a success.”
The Nambucca Farmers’ Market is being established as ‘your reliable weekly market held rain, hail or shine’ and offers a range of locally-grown and made produce. “Weekly markets like this help not only reduce food miles, support our local growers and assist small businesses to test their products, but it helps build community.
“The Nambucca Farmers Market is built on the hard work and success of the existing Bellingen Farmers and Producers Market and Eungai Farmers Market that really laid the foundation and demonstrated how a weekly afternoon market could become a pillar of a community,” said Jane. Working on a foundation of honesty, consistency and reliability, Jane and the team will strive to build Nambucca Farmers Market markets to be, “the neighbourhood’s go-to and become a part of a weekly routine”, said Jane.
By Andrea FERRARI
Nambucca Farmers Market
Every Thursday from 2:30pm - 5:30PM
ABOUT time is how locals responded to the launch of Nambucca Farmers Market.
It’s a new weekly fresh food and home-made goods market at Gordon Park, Nambucca Heads every Thursday from 2.30 to 5.30p,, “with the best time to come being between 2.30-4pm”, Jane Smith, market coordinator, told News Of The Area.
The market made a modest first appearance on Thursday 29 June and in the past three weeks has been flourishing.
“On the first market day we had six stalls and a hope and a prayer that the community would come and support it, and by 3pm mostly everything was sold out.
“It was such a relief that it was so successful,” said Jane.
Confidence in the venture was established and now the market has regular bookings for all ten allocated stalls and is attracting new stall holders. Looking ahead Jane said, “we have had such great feedback and attendance that our next step is working with council to be able to have an additional 10 stalls”. Jane and her wife Kristy Bland own local foodie café Matilda’s and enjoy a friendly relationship with their customers and the community. They were keen for a new project that fitted with their caring community values.
“The team and I at Matilda’s were brainstorming what we could do to support the village that we work and live in, like sponsoring a sports team for example, and we came up with the idea of a farmers’ market.
“As a business we would love to use valley-grown produce as much as possible and personally we all want to help grow the local food economy,” she said. They set about planning and liaising with Nambucca Valley Council.
“The council welcomed the idea with open arms and really worked with us to make it happen,” she said. Equally supportive were the local producers and growers in providing their advice, “and taking a chance on us”, she said.
“I honestly can’t thank the stall holders who attended our first market enough.
“It’s only because of them and the variety of produce they were able to bring that I think this market will be a success.”
The Nambucca Farmers’ Market is being established as ‘your reliable weekly market held rain, hail or shine’ and offers a range of locally-grown and made produce. “Weekly markets like this help not only reduce food miles, support our local growers and assist small businesses to test their products, but it helps build community.
“The Nambucca Farmers Market is built on the hard work and success of the existing Bellingen Farmers and Producers Market and Eungai Farmers Market that really laid the foundation and demonstrated how a weekly afternoon market could become a pillar of a community,” said Jane. Working on a foundation of honesty, consistency and reliability, Jane and the team will strive to build Nambucca Farmers Market markets to be, “the neighbourhood’s go-to and become a part of a weekly routine”, said Jane.
By Andrea FERRARI