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 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. 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: Back packer trail meets aboriginal culture

Known for: 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 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