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natural-attractions-icon-webNatural attractions on the South Coast NSW



KIAMA

The Blowhole
Possibly the most famous landmark for miles around, situated at Blowhole Point near the lighthouse and attracting visitors to Kiama for many years. Best seen on a day when a strong south-east wind is blowing and the tide is rising.


The Lighthouse
Built in 1887 to save shipping from the dangerous rocks of Blowhole Point.


Pilot's Cottage Museum
Built 1881 and now beautifully restored by the Historical Society, serves as an historical museum and tourist venue. Open Friday to Monday 11am to 3pm. Call for info on 4232 1001.


Robertson Basin
The name given to part of Kiama Harbour completed in 1876 after 16 years of construction to cater for the increasing shipping trade to this town. Iron rings, originally used to moor ships and boats in the hrabour can still be seen attached to rocks.


Christ Church
The little white church on the hill. Built in 1859, the ceiling resembles an upturned boat. One of the graves nearby is of First Fleeter John Gowan who arrived in New South Wales as a corporal of marines. He died in 1837 aged 74.


Town Obelisk
Seen on the northern side of Terralong Street, a point from which all distances were measured.


Post Office
Built in 1887/89 and was described as a red brick building with facings of Pyrmot stone in the Italian style.


Courthouse and Police Station
Built in 1860 and 1883 respectively in Terralong Street.


Kiama Railway

Commenced on 9 November 1887, trains from Wollongong to Bombo where passengers had to board a horse drawn carriage for last 2 miles to town.


JAMBEROO

Saddleback Mountain Lookout
Travel west from Kiama toward Jamberoo and turn left at Fountaindale Road. Follow this road upwards to the end. The views will astound you - from Wollongong to Gerringong.


Minnamurra Rainforest
Drive through Jamberoo and turn left just outside town up Jamberoo Mountain Road. Take the first turn right to reach Minnamurra set in the National Park where native birds and animals abound. Elevated boardwalks suitable for disabled persons take you through the canopy of trees among the remains of a dense rainforest.


GERROA

Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach is of particular interest to aviation buffs since this is where early flights were commenced. In fact Kingsford Smith and crew left from 7 Mile Beach for New Zealand.


BERRY

There are many fine buildings in this bustling township, some of historic interest such as the Old Courthouse in Victoria Street and the School of Arts in Alexandra Street. Be in Berry in February to enjoy the Annual Berry Show and in October witness the spring grandeur of the lovely gardens on display. Berry stages a monthly market at the Showgrounds and a blues band plays at the Great Southern Hotel. At Coolangatta Estate Winery jazz and blues feature every month on the first Sunday.

The views from this vantage point are nothing short of breathtaking. From here one may gaze out across the Shoalhaven River basin taking in the City of Nowra, Coolangatta Mountain and the confluence of the Shoalhaven and Crookhaven Rivers at Greenwell Point.


KANGAROO VALLEY

Of note in this picturesque place is the Hampden Bridge with its castellated stoneworks. Call in and see the Pioneer Farm Museum, right beside the northern approach to the bridge, and see displays of farming implements and techniques of times past. This is also a good place to indulge in a cuppa, a snack or a hearty meal.


NOWRA

While here, make sure to visit Australia's Museum of Flight at HMAS Albatross, Nowra Hill, just south of the city. Here will be found some of Australia's most interesting aircraft and other paraphernalia of flight.
Visit the Visitors Centre which is located just south of the Shoalhaven River Bridge. Turn left at the Navy helicopter. Here is also to be found historic Graham House which was recently renovated back to its original 19th. century glory.


Nowra Museum is located at the corner of Kinghorne and Worrigee Streets and contains many items of local interest.


Meroogal House, a museum dedicated to the lifestyles and domestic hardship of women of yesteryear, is located in Worrigee Street. Conducted tours are available on weekends.
Of course a visit to Nowra would not be complete without a visit to Bundanon, a property at Cambewarra to the west of Nowra which was owned by artist Arthur Boyd. Bundanon is now run as a campus for aspiring artists as well as a gallery of works.


Nowra Wildlife Park at North Nowra is always a pleasure to visit where you may get up close and personal with native animals and reptiles. With views of the Shoalhaven River, this is a day trip to remember.


Around Nowra you will find plenty of bushwalking and/or 4WD tracks in the State Forests and National park. Information available form the Visitors Centre - 4421 0778.


EAST of NOWRA

Drive east from Nowra along Greenwell Point Road for 14 kms and you will find yourself in the quiet fishing village of Greenwell Point. Located at the junction of Shoalhaven and Crookhaven Rivers, this is known far and wide as the oyster capital of the coast.
Fish shops and oyster farmers here offer fresh catches daily plus there is a Bowling Club or Hotel where a wonderful meal may be had at low cost. Of course fishing is very popular here and boat launching ramps are available at three sites. For more information visit the Greenwell Point web site.

Along Greenwell Point Road is found Jindy Andy Mill where several gift shops and a cafe are located as well as a cafe and gallery at The Old Butterfactory.
From here it is an easy 10 minute drive to Culburra Beach, Orient Point or Callala Beach and Bay. Further east to Currarong where some more great fish adventures may be had either at table or catch your own.


Anglers Rest Boat Hire & Takeaway!


JERVIS BAY

To see the whitest sand beaches in the world a visit to Jervis Bay is a must. Vincentia and Huskisson will give you an idea of this fact which is further reinforced at Hyams Beach. All manner of watersports are popular on Jervis Bay during spring, summer and autumn plus fishing all year round. Other attractions here include Lilliputland and Lady Denman Maritime Museum at Huskisson.

Several well known artists live around Jervis Bay and from time to time hold exhibitions of work at various locations as well as during the bi-annual See Change Festival.


SUSSEX INLET

Visit this pleasant place when next in the mood to catch a fish, go hiking, camping, waterskiing, surfing, horse riding, golfing, bowling or just relaxing. Here, you will get those choices and more, with several clubs, motels, restaurants, a pub and caravan parks to select from. Be in Sussex during July each year for the giant Family Fishing Contest which carries prize money of more than $30,000.00.


MILTON, MOLLYMOOK, ULLADULLA

These three townships, so close together yet of three different characteristics.

Milton, more established with some charming old buildings and quaint shops and galleries filled with all manner of retail and artistic goods.
Mollymook, a more modern township and holiday destination, has a most attractive surf beach, two golf clubs, bowling club plus an abundance of accommodation in motels and apartments.

Ulladulla, considered to be the commercial hub of the area also boasts some wonderful cafes, restaurants, galleries and other retail venues, most with views of the harbour's sparkling blue waters. Be there during Easter for the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony or in July for Tabula Rasa Festival and August for the Food & Wine Festival. Call the Visitors Centre for info on 4455 1269.


BAWLEY POINT, TERMEIL & DURRAS
Where the bush meets the ocean and life rolls on at a most pleasant pace. The surf is a big attraction and campers are catered for at several caravan parks, B & B's and guest houses. Art galleries and roadside stalls prevail with fresh produce and fine art for sale. Pick up a bargain all year round.
   
What's On

diary-web'What's On' on the South Coast NSW

July 2010

What’s on in the South Coast this month


  1st-4th July- NSW Open Surfmasters Titles
With ten state titles up for grabs, the best surfers in the state are set to converge on Kiama for this event. Held at Kiama & Gerringong beaches, visit www.surfingnsw.com.au or phone 9349 7055 for details.


2nd & 3rd July- South Coast Fibre Muster
Spinning and Weaving Exhibition & Sales 9.00am-5.00pm, held at the Berry School of Arts, Berry, 2 great days of spinning, weaving & fibre crafts. Only $2, kids entry free. The Muster features competitions, demonstrations, an antique sock making machine, "Most Outrageous" tea cosy competition, lucky door prizes, stalls selling wool, tops, yarns, quality craft goods and workshops on selected aspects of hand craft.  Lunch and light refreshments will be available. Ph Maree on 4448 6267 or Noelene on 4464 3021 for further details.

3rd July- Sydney Symphony Fellows & Cushion Concert
A classical recital by the Sydney Symphony Fellows at 3pm, $25pp. Also – Cushion Concert for children at 11:30am, no booking required. Ph: 4464 2629 or visit www.berrymusicale.org


3rd- 29th July- Lady Denman ‘Elyard Centenary Exhibition
Featuring paintings from the Lady Denman & other collections. Dent St, Huskisson.  Ph 4441 5675 for details.

4th July- King of the Mountain Footrace
Run from Nowra to Kangaroo Valley via Mt Scanzi. Ph Kevyn on 4447 8309 for details.


4th July- Bridal Expo
See the exhibitiors, fashion parade & Bride of the Year, free admission. Held at the Bomaderry Bowling Club in Meroo St. Ph Denise on 4421 9123 for information.


4th-11th July- Naidoc Week
The festival showcases indigenous art and culute and explores the subject of reconciliation by celebreating the struggle of Illawarra’s Aboriginal community. Entertainment includes local, regional & nationally renowned indigenous singers, dancers, DJ’s & bands. Ph 4221 6035 for details.

7th-10th July- Nowra Players ‘Aladdin’
July 7-10th 2pm & 7:30pm show, bookings essential. The Players Theatre, Meroo Rd, Bomaderry. Ph: Lyn on 4421 0829 for ticket information or visit www.nowraplayers.com.au

7th June- 30th August- The Journey of Landscape by Janine Coddington
A collection of prints & paintings held at Number 10 Arts Precinct, 10 Allowrie St, Jamberoo from 10am-3pm Mon, Thurs, Fri & Sat.
www.numberten.cc

11th July- Archer Miniature Railway
Held on the 2nd Sunday monthly from 10am-3pm at the Archer Racecourse, Albatross Rd, Nowra. Ph 0412706045 for details.


11th July- Illawarra Light Railway Museum
See the action, have a ride, take a picnic, on the second Sunday of every month. Free entry, parking outside, children’s play area, BBQ facilities. Visit www.ilrms.com.au or phone 4256 4627 for more info

22nd July- ADFAS- Jan Steen’s Hilarious Households
A 17th Century paradox- presented by Mr Tim Stumson BA Hons. Ph Dennis on 4464 2918 for details. 116 Broughton Vale Rd, Broughton Vale.

25th July- Music Shoalhaven ‘Sydney Brass’
Sydney Brass specialise in brass music & is lead by Paul Goodchild (principal trumpet for Sydney Symphony). Tickets $30, $20 members or $8 students/unaccompanied children, accompanied children free. Held at the Nowra School of Arts, Berry St, Nowra at 2pm. Ph Maurice on 4464 2245 for information or visit www.musicshoalhaven.net.au, no booking required.

30th July-14th August- Oliver ‘Roo Theatre Production’
Oliver comes to the Roo Theatre in a dazzling production. This much loved musical vividly brings to life Dickens’ timeless characters with it’s ever popular story of the boy who asked for more. Ph Roo Theatre on 4297 2891.


31 July 1 Aug- 2010 Ulladulla Harbour Classic
250 km tour of the Illawarra, Southern Highland & Shoalhaven. With 2 static displays for the public to view- Sat at Crescent St, Rotary Park from 9am-10:30am & Sun on the wharf at the Ulladulla Harbour from 10-11am. Ph Lyn on 4456 4660 for more details.


31st July – 1st August- Berry Camellia & Flower Show
Held at the Berry School of Arts, Alexandria St, Berry from noon until 4pm Sat & Sun 10am-2pm. Last year over 1400 Camellia Blooms were displayed. Ph Michael on 4448 6044 or visit berrygardens.org.au/camellia-flower-show