Celebrating heritage on the coast

By Michelle Bateman, Editor, National Trust (NSW) Magazine

Fishing, swimming, sailing, surfing, diving… our coastline offers a plethora of summertime activities. Heritage also deserves a place on that list. As we head into mid-summer, it’s the perfect time to shine a light on some the previously shortlisted entrants and winners of the National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards along the state’s coast.

The Mid North Coast

If you’re planning a trip to Coffs Harbour on Gumbaynggirr Country, start by visiting the fabulous Journeys Mid North Coast website. Previously shortlisted for the 2024 National Trust Heritage Awards, it offers a comprehensive overview of the history and culture of the region, and is full of the fascinating local stories and colourful characters that make a place feel vibrant.

Once you arrive in Coffs Harbour, head for Jetty Beach. Inhale the salty ocean air as you stroll along the 975-metre jetty before paying a visit to the SSILO Project on the foreshore. The SSILO (South Solitary Island Lighthouse Optic) first lit up South Solitary Island in 1880 and continued to shine for 95 years until it was decommissioned in 1975. The optic was meticulously conserved by International Conservation Services (ICS) and makes for intriguing viewing.

Later, escape the afternoon sun with a trip to Yarrila Arts and Museum, just a short 10-minute drive away, where you can enjoy Yaamanga (around here), a permanent exhibition exploring the history and identity of the Coffs Coast and Gumbaynggirr culture. With its lively installations and multimedia works, this exhibition is curated for all ages.

Then, take a 20-minute drive south to Sawtell to see the newly restored Sawtell Reserve Hall. With its centenary fast approaching (it was constructed in 1929), the weatherboard hall recently received much-needed repairs and refurbishment to restore it to its former glory. In its heyday, this hall was a community hub that could hold up to 1,400 dancers at a time, and it still holds a fond place in the memories of many locals.

Newcastle and the Hunter region

Further south in the Hunter region, the spectacular Tomaree Coastal Walk weaves along the coastline in the Tomaree National Park in Port Stephens. The track covers 27 kilometres end-to-end and is designed to be trekked over a couple of days, but it’s equally enjoyable to pick a shorter section to explore over a few hours.

Take in the panoramic ocean views from the top of Tomaree Head at Shoal Bay, trek across craggy rock ledges or take refuge in the cool of the angophora forest – this coastal walk has something for everyone. Nearby, is the Murrook Culture Centre, located on the land of Worimi people in Williamtown. Visitors can experience Aboriginal cultural workshops and tours, admire colourful art displays and immerse themselves in the cultural knowledge of the traditional custodians of this land.

Sydney and surrounds

With noteworthy projects spread across the Harbour City, you could easily spend a few days exploring them all. Jump on a bike and head to the revitalised site of the White Bay Power Station in Rozelle. This decommissioned power station is a sight to behold and a great spot for a gentle cycle, with bicycle paths linking to the inner west suburbs of Rozelle, Annandale, Glebe and Balmain. Used to host a range of arts and cultural events, don’t miss the upcoming 25th Biennale of Sydney, which will be held here soon.

Park your bike near Balmain Wharf and catch the ferry across to Cockatoo Island (Wareamah), to view historic Building 10. Constructed more than 100 years ago, the three-storey timber building was used for offices during the island’s use as a dockyard for the Royal Australian Navy and has undergone incredible restoration work.

Back on the mainland, cool off in the azure waters of Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo, Sydney’s first city beach. This popular urban aquatic spot was created following a dedicated campaign by the Millers Point Community Resident Action Group.

Take a drive over to North Head in Manly where two viewing platforms offer breathtaking views across Sydney Harbour while celebrating Car-ran-gel Country and acknowledging the culture of the area’s traditional custodians.

The views from West Head Lookout in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park are considered to be some of the best in Sydney and the lookout’s recent upgrade provides another compelling reason to visit. This project involved strong engagement with the original designer, Bruce Mackenzie. Sit a while, take in the natural beauty in every direction and enjoy the serenity in this special spot.

The South Coast

Our coastal journey ends in Shellharbour, a 25-minute drive south of Wollongong, where the Yirran muru Aboriginal Interpretive Playspace is located. Designed in partnership with the local Aboriginal community, kids of all ages can climb on the hand-carved timber whale (Burri Burri), pretend to paddle a canoe across Lake Illawarra (Jubborsay), play in the sandpit and learn about bush tucker plants. There’s also an interactive language wheel, where you can listen to and learn words from the Dharawal language.