Coffs Harbour

Coff's Harbour is probably best known for its Big Banana, which is a lot of fun, but there is a whole lot more to this historic East Coast of Australia region than a giant banana. We take a fascinating Giingan Tour to learn about the ancient custodians of this part of the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, which is known as Gumbaynggirr country. The Gumbaynggirr word for "meeting place" is "arrawarra", and our arrawarra is the historic cultural site of Niigi Niigi (a Gumbaynggirr word for "charcoal"), also known as Sealy Lookout which is a true hidden gem of the East Coast of Australia. This is set high up through, you've guessed it, banana plantations, in the State Forests of Coffs Coasts. Part of the experience takes place on the Forest Sky Pier, with panoramic views of Coffs Harbour and the coastline. 

You'll discover this amazing cultural experience through language, stories, song and the role of native plants. and at the same time, you will be making an important contribution to keeping alive the Gumbaynggirr culture.

Population: 78,738

Vibe: Backpacker trail meets aboriginal culture

Known for: Beautiful beaches, banana plantations and a big banana!

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

Image: Forestry Corporation NSW 015

Take a Giingan Tour

For many years, "Out to Lunch" is a phrase that could have been used to describe the "laid back" residents of this hippy town! We make a visit for lunch in this town (Adventure tours only) where traditional facade fronts mix with modern chic boutiques. There is a hemp store and a shop selling digeridoos. There is a "Cupboard of Plenty" which is a communal food resource, an echo of the Gumbaynggirr culture. "Bello" as it is referred to by the locals, was also home to the renowned Australian novelist, Peter Carey, who wrote his novel "Illywhacker" in the town, and also mentioned the church at Bellingen as the inspiration for his Booker Prize novel, "Oscar and Lucinda".

WHERE STRAY STAYS

Select Tours: NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Resort

We stay in comfortable fully equipped villas within this 110-acres beachside rainforest resort. Bring your book and unwind beside the resort-style pools, soak away your worries in our heated spa and relax with a cocktail at our licenced on-site café. Feeling active? A game of lawn bowls, archery or nine holes of golf ought to do it.

Address: 
104/134 Eggins Dr, Arrawarra NSW 2456
View in Google Maps
Tel: 1800 888 999

STRAY TOURS THAT INCLUDE COFFS HARBOUR AND THE GUMBAYNGGIRR CULTURAL EXPERIENCE