Go-time at Coffs Harbour: Cartoons, LEGO and the Lizards of Oz

Cult Aussie movie The Castle saluted the “serenity” but in Coffs Harbour this summer it’s all about the vibe on the back of an extensive program of creative adventures. 

“The City has put together a string of engaging events which are free or low-cost and the perfect tonic for families through the holidays,” Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said. 

“The variety of what’s being offered is massive and there’s also a good range of indoor and outdoor activities.” 

The Summer Vibes Holiday Program includes: 

• LEGO workshops being offered through the Harry Bailey Memorial, Toormina and Woolgoolga libraries. These are free and offer mini challenges for youngsters as well as a LEGO ‘build off’ (free). 

• Rockyshore Explores at Woolgoolga where participants can investigate the amazing marine life in rockpools. Due to the terrain of beach and rock platform, this is not an all-access event and is better suited for adults though children aged seven and older can attend but must be accompanied by an adult (free). 

• Children and teenagers can get to grips with laser-cutting basics at a Mini Surf Designs workshop (cost $30). 

• An animation workshop for eight to 16-year-olds will be held at Yarrila Place (cost $10). 

• A Rainforest Ramble will run at Bruxner Park Reserve. Learn about this unique environment with a guide showcasing sites such as giant strangler figs, mushrooms sprouting, satin bower birds courting, and maybe even a beautifully hued Wompoo Fruit Dove. Children aged seven and older can attend but must be accompanied by an adult (free).  

• The Studio Ghibli Film Festival will be held at the Jetty Memorial Theatre on 8-9 January. The festival celebrates the acclaimed work of the Japanese animation house which has spent 35 years telling winding, complex yet age-appropriate stories that stretch the bounds of what animation can do. To book visit www.jettytheatre.com 

• A full day of live reptile-themed activities at Yarrila Place. Get up close, ask questions, and learn about local species and their habitats. One of the sessions includes an artist-led mixed media response to Australian reptiles. 

• Free art-making for children and families at Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM), plus a design your own surfboard competition. 

“I’d encourage everyone to jump online to see what’s on offer and book the sessions you want as some of the activities are filling fast,” City Planning and Communities Acting Director Ian Fitzgibbon said. 

“The holidays can seem to stretch for a long time so the City is pleased to offer these affordable opportunities to keep people entertained.” 

• To register for any of the Summer Vibes programs visit either the City libraries, Yarrila Arts and Museum or the Our Living Coast websites. 

Photo:  
Lizards Up Close: Masters of Climbing and Camouflage at the City of Coffs Harbour’s Yarrila Place will provide insights into the behavior of lizards, their diet, and role in the ecosystem.