We paid a number of visits to the Aquarium, located at Southern Cross University's National Marine Science Centre. We were honoured to have the Aquarium all to ourselves and have such enthusiastic staff look after us, especially Ana, so incredibly knowledgeable and funny with her behavioural descriptions. She gave us one of the most entertaining presentations ever!. We learned so much about the local fish life of Coffs, and the importance of caring for the sea The displays were amazing, full of life, they really captured our attention. Thank you, Ana and Stefan you were amazing ! We will definitely be back again and again!
We concluded our visits to the Aquarium with delightful lunches at the Clog Barn. Thank you Alison and staff for welcoming us and looking after us!
We went to see and toured the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie, the first dedicated Koala hospital in Australia. It operates with no government funding, only on donations and is mainly run by volunteers; the hospital provides treatment and care for sick and injured koalas.
We spent some time browsing through the displays and watching several of the koalas on the property in open air enclosures while they recuperate, and some long term koala residents who have sustained injuries preventing their return to the wild.
Some of us were even lucky enough to get up very close to the koalas.
The volunteers we met were also super friendly and very knowledgeable, always there to answer any questions we had and a nice chat.
All in all a great experience was had by all.
We then stopped for a relaxing lunch at Seasalt Café Restaurant, located overlooking Port Macquarie Marina. Everyone seemed to have enjoyed their lunch and water views.
Thank you, Marten and all the staff who were so accommodating and looked after us so well.
In March, we decided to take our second group on a 5days/4nights adventure to the Sunshine Coast!
As per our first trip we visited The Cardiff Alpaca Farm where Robert makes sure we leave with a memorable experience!
We then travelled through the Sunshine Coast hinterland, visiting the Glass House Mountains and exploring the towns of Maleny and Montville.
We again based ourselves at the Kawana Waters Mercure Hotel whilst we enjoyed the Noosa River Canal Cruise, visited the Ginger Factory, and Eumundi Markets.
On our last day we visited Sea Life at Mooloolaba, a marine mammal park, oceanarium and wildlife sanctuary, where our own tour guide Justin, was waiting for us.
He took us on a fascinating journey across three levels of the park. We got up close to many creatures including one of Australia’s largest collections of jellyfish and seahorse kingdom. We met their famous resident seals and took a look at over 20 species of sharks and rays in their 80m Ocean Tunnel.
We rounded up our second adventure with another visit to Brisbane, our second home, and Bangalow for our last lunch.
We are now looking forward to our next Adventure!
On Saturday 13th of April we had the pleasure of attending the show Taste of Ireland at the Jetty Theatre.
We were entertained by an extremely talented ensemble of dancers, singers and musicians.
What an engaging and fun filled afternoon was had by all !
The show was amazing! And once again, a special thank you to the team of volunteers at the Theatre who always make us feel so welcome!!
Throughout April and May we paid various visits to the Coffs Nursery. We enjoy strolling down the aisles and seeing the latest plants in season. We just love this place, and we never leave empty handed. We always conclude our visits with a relaxing lunch at the Wylde Oak Café.
We also explored the Botanical Gardens with our lovely friendly volunteers in our favourite Buggy guided tours.
Pam and the staff put on a lovely morning tea for us on arrival before we get on our buggy way!
We ended our daily outings with a delightful lunch at the Yacht Club.
In April we visited The Riverview Hotel in Smithtown, situated on the banks of the Macleay River, halfway between Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie.
We all enjoyed a delicious lunch at a lovely location, overlooking the river! What a little Gem we found!
During the month of May we took a step back in time to find out how Nambucca Valley pioneers lived in the early 19th century.
We visited the Mary Boulton Pioneer Cottage Museum, set in award winning gardens, just opposite the Nambucca River.
This unique museum showcases the historic town of Macksville, with magnificent collection of exhibits from the olden days.
Thank you, David and staff for your hospitality and the lovely morning tea!Our visits to the Cottage were followed by lunch at the Wharf Street Café on the banks of the Nambucca River.
In May we took off again for Brisbane. This time to attend the performance of Beauty & The Beast, the musical at QPAC.
So, we organised a couple of departures early in the month.
We stopped at Summerland Farm for lunch on the way to Brisbane. A beautiful macadamia and avocado farm set high in the Ballina-Byron hinterland.
Whilst in Brisbane we decided to get to know the city through the eyes of skilled and knowledgeable locals, Tina, John and Sue our friendly Brisbane Greeters.
They boarded our bus and took us on a fascinating mystery journey. We were really entertained with their enchanting stories of the city, their experiences and fascinating facts.
We concluded our tour with a lovey lunch at Mount Coot-Tha Botanical Gardens.
Then it was Showtime!
Two memorable and enjoyable trips and we will be back for more performances!
At the end of May, we had the pleasure of attending the local performance of The Jersey Boys ! the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. What a show!
The cast was amazing and the music absolutely sensational !
We all seem to be enthralled by The Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company, we have now been to see most of their performances and each time we are blown away by their acting/singing and enthusiasm.
Thank you CHMCC ! You’re the Best!
