If you haven’t participated in a NAIDOC Week experience yet, there are still plenty of events and celebrations around, until the end of this week. Here are a few great options, plus a few more ideas for what’s on around the area this week. Additional reporting from our Hospitality Editor, Narrell Tabone.
NAIDOC Week is in full swing and this year’s theme, Keep the fire burning, is literally on display at the continuous fire. Visit the wood chop arena at the Nowra showground from sunrise to sunset, till Sunday 14 July for the Yila Healing Trail celebration.
Reconciliation Art Project
Artist, teacher & proud Dharawal woman Jaz Corr is inviting the community to contribute to a special artwork she is creating as part of Shoalhaven City Council’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). “Woven is a communal painting that serves as a powerful symbol of Aboriginal identity and connection to Yuin Country,” Jaz said.
Be part of this extraordinary project Saturday 13 July, 10-3pm, at the Ulladulla Civic Centre as part of NAIDOC Day celebrations.
Bush food and culture walk at Narrawallee
Join First Nations tour guides, Bungalin, on an informative and enjoyable experience on country this Saturday 13 July for 3 hours from 10am. Guide Felix Salmon will expertly share his cultural knowledge along a 3km walk. Book online, $90.
Artists Talks at new exhibitions
Hear from the creators of two new exhibitions opening at the Shoalhaven Regional Gallery this Saturday from 10.30am, including Lissa de Sailles who combines a love of botany and the natural world with her fine skills in traditional basketry.
Alongside Lissa’s exhibition, “Sensing the Sacred”, is “Soft Pressing” by Simon Degroot. Simon – who will also be giving a talk about his work this Saturday morning, starts by pressing paper against a surface such as a wall or a footpath and rubbing with charcoal before returning to the studio to create large-scale paintings.
Read about these exhibitions and more in our story from Natalie McDonagh.
Harbourside markets
The Ulladulla Wharf Markets take place on the second Sunday of each month at Ulladulla Harbour, on this Sunday 14 July from 8-1pm. This vibrant market offers a variety of stalls featuring locally produced items, vintage goods, and excellent coffee, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the beautiful harbour. If you’re feeling peckish, right next to the markets is the freshest fish n chips and counter meals at Fishermens Wharf Seafoods and At Sea in Wason street.
Farmers markets
Thursdays are farmers market days in Berry and Nowra, why not make this a weekly habit to stock up on fresh local produce, support local growers and makers, and enjoy some fresh air in our beautiful towns.
Berry Farmers Market is on from 2-5pm at the Berry Bowlo.
Nowra Farmers Market is on from 2-6pm at Harry Sawkins Park.
Ginger beer on tap
The clever people at Flamin Galah Brewing Co and beer garden in the Huskisson industrial area have created a refreshing ginger beer, which is now available on tap. This is the first house-made fizzy beverage with a zingy, crisp ginger flavour, and it will be available permanently. This new creation is already a hit with the locals. Read the reviews for yourself!
One-stop Hippy Shop
Kiki – The Hippy Shop has now closed in Vincentia and owner Kelly has brought all her treasures into one location at 62 Owen Street, Huskisson, open 7 days a week from 9.30am till 4pm. Kel has ensured there’s ample space for everyone, including moms with strollers and those using wheelchairs.
Kelly began her journey four years ago, right when the first lockdown hit. Her business survived through the ordeal, Kelly explains, with her extensive range of clothes, crystals, and incense a big draw. Shoppers sought comfortable clothing for working from home and crystals became popular as people looked for ways to ease their worries. The kids’ beading bucket was a great hit too. It was a challenging time for everyone, but Kelly’s dedication and the community support turned this little gem of a shop into a success story.
Parmi With a Twist
Eggplant Parmigiana is the perfect twist on the classic parmi, and this week till Saturday night 20 July only, Peter & Eva Italian Restaurant in Huskisson have a delicious $34 special on – pair it with a limoncello spritz for a flavour sensation.
Garden Centre Fun for Kids
The creative team at Schutz Landscape in Tomerong know how to create the best school holiday activities for kids. Their specially-designed sensory gardens and lawns are adjacent to @coffee_onthe_double aka the “red bus” café, a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and snack while the kids explore and play. One of their owners is a qualified educator who is often on-hand to guide visiting kids to feed the chooks, collect eggs and interact with the rabbit. Visit their socials to see what it’s all about.
