Events January 2009

Nabiac is a quaint and quiet town just off the Pacific Highway, nestled in the hinterland 15 minutes from Forster. This market is held in one of the most picturesque showgrounds in the state.  Be early for the best pick of the locally grown and produced goodies such as organic vegies, free range eggs, local fruits, chocolates, gingerbread, honey, olives and olive oil, plants, chooks, quail, wine tasting, local crafts, BBQ and an all round social event.  Bring a friend and enjoy an old-fashioned shopping experience. The use of reusable bags and baskets are encouraged.

Market runs from 8.00am til 12noon

Located next door to the Visitor Information Centre, this small market focuses on native plants, vege seedlings, fruit & veg, great home made cakes and delicacies, crafts, jewellery & clothing. Plenty of parking available.

Market runs from 8.00am - 1.00pm.

Your chance to experience a true-blue coastal market with a veritable array of stalls.  You'll find around 50 stallholders peddling handmade, homegrown and pre-loved wares to holiday makers and locals.  The market more than lives up to its mantra of "homemade, homegrown and home-baked" - with a diverse selection of handmade craft, jewellery, clothing, homewares and art works.  And once you're done browsing and buying why take a stroll down the main street for a morning coffee or brunch in one of the many cafes.

Market runs from 8.00am - 2.00pm

 homemade......homegrown......home-baked.......

This is a popular market located harbour side near the bridge and has the added advantage of being sited from the main street in Tuncurry. This is totally open air with use of the under cover Podium for entertainment.  Many of the stall holders come from the local 'North Coast Region' and sell a diverse range of products, from handmade wooden toys to handmade organic skincare. A good variety of clothing, lots of plants, plenty to suit all tastes.   Also available at the market is face painting and the famous Coastal Patrol BBQ.

Market runs from 8.00am - 2.00pm.

This is a market with definite atmosphere, you can wander through colourful stalls and peruse the collection of local handmade jewellery, timber carvings, body products, hemp clothing, eco & fair trade products, there's even a Tibetan stall where you can purchase Tibetan prayer flags, affirmation scrolls or a metal singing bowl....  The Palms Market is famous for its great organic foods and organic expresso coffee. Sample the delicious banana pancakes, whilst sipping on an expresso on the shaded deck overlooking the stalls.  The children are also not forgotten as they can be entertained by pony rides and a jumping castle.

Market runs from 9.00am - 1.00pm

NOTE: ADDITIONAL MARKETS WILL ALSO BE HELD ON 11th JANUARY, 12th & 26th APRIL

see you under the palms..............

The Great Lakes - Great Produce group, consisting of food producers, restaurateurs, vegetable, fruit and herb growers and local people who are passionate about great food. Their aim is to promote fresh produce grown or made in the Great Lakes, and the neighbouring regions of Gloucester, Greater Taree and beyond. Some of the produce to be found include country style breads, cheeses, coffee, bottled preserves, native and rainforest plants, organically grown and bio-dynamically produced foods.

Market runs from 8.00am - 12noon.

Tea Gardens Village Markets is a new and vibrant market situated in the Village Square of the Myall Quays Shopping Village, in Tea Gardens.  With over 30 stallholders selling crafts, plants, photography, gourmet food, body products, clothing, recycled timber products and jewellery, handmade chocolates there is an abundance of variety to choose from.  When combined with the entertainment on offer, you are guaranteed a great family day out!

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CHANGES TO THE NORMAL '3rd SATURDAY' MARKET DATES - Sat 11 April, Sat 6 June, Sat 3 Oct & Sat 12 Dec.

Events March 2009

No visit to Forster/Tuncurry is complete without seeing this fabulous Centre.

Forster Arts & Crafts Centre hosts changing monthly exhibitions as well as displaying a large range of art,crafts, ceramics, woodwork and pottery for sale from its members.  There are also classes in many art forms. It is one of the largest community arts and crafts centres in New South Wales. Open daily from 10am to 4.30pm.

Easter Theme Exhibition - March 09
Best of the Best Theme Exhibition - May 09
ANNUAL QUILT & CRAFT EXPO - May 16 and 17 - Many of the Quilts of Love made at the centre for the children who stay at the Ronald McDonald Beach Cottages will be on show. Gold Coin donation
Wintertime Theme Exhibition - June/July 09
Father's Day Theme Exhibition - Aug 09
Springtime Theme Exhibition - Sept 09
Christmas Theme Exhibition - Oct/Nov/Dec 09

Events April 2009

The Rotary Motor Market will be held at the Aldi end of the carpark near Kmart Tyres at Stockland Forster. Bring your car, ute, boat, ride-on or anything that can be sold as ONE item. Market from 8am - 1.30pm. This is a market for Big Boys Toys! Sellers $20 - Buyers free

Events July 2009

Club Forster will present "Back to the Tivoli" variety show on Saturday 4th July in the auditorium. Tickets are available at Club Forster and the price is $12 for members and $15 for visitors or groups of 10 would be $10 each. Showtime is at 8pm and seating is reserved.

Bill and Sylvia Goodwin will take you on a sailing adventure aboard the Vivace II from the comfort of the Library. Visit the Phillippines, Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. Bill and Sylvia made the 'yachting change' eleven years ago when as novices they started life on board the Vivace II sailing in the South Pacific. Three years ao they purchased a house in Tuncurry and now spend 6 months of each year here and 6 months on Vivace II. Tickets are $10 which includes a light meal of homemade soup, sandwiches and slices.  Bookings can be made at the Forster Library and the Great Lakes Bookshop in Tuncurry.

Ashton Entertainment presents Circus Xsavia. Over 100 years of knowledge handed down through 8 generations have gone into this new and exciting boutique circus production. Four generations of the Ashton family still travel and perform with Circus Xsavia proudly carrying on a great tradition started so long ago. High quality affordable family entertainment for all. Join them under the Big Top and go on a dream journey through the world of circus.

Showtimes are: Thurs 9th & Fri 10th - 7pm; Sat 11th - 4pm & 7pm; Sun 12th - 11am; Wed 15th & Thurs 16th 7pm; Fri 17th & Sat 18th -4pm & 7pm; Sun 19th - 11am; Wed 22nd & Thurs 23rd - 7pm; Fri 24th & Sat 25th - 4pm & 7pm; Sun 26th - 11am.

Ticket prices for Grandstand Seating is $20/adult, $10/child & $15/concession (full pension); Ringside Chairs $25/adult, $15/child & $20/concession. Family tickets are also available. The Box Office opens 1 hour before the show and the show itself runs for 1 hour & 35min.

Club Forster presents Borich & Borich on Friday 10th July in the auditorium. Pre-sale tickets are $15 or on the day $20. Suitable for 18+ years with showtime being 9.30pm.

The NSW Country Tennis Titles is an annual tournament conducted for NSW country based players only.  It has a long and memorable history and has great tradition in the tennis world.  The mens open singles having been won in past years by many Australian representatives including Davis Cup Players like Jason Stoltenberg and Mark Edmonson.

The Event runs for 7 days and includes The Medibank Country Junior Championships for 14/U, 16/U & 19/u age groups, to be played during the week.  With the Mens & Womens Open Championships held over the weekend.

For more information go to www.tennis.com.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Rugby League is coming to Forster Tuncurry!

The 2009 Annual NSW Country v Queensland Interstate Rugby League series will be played at Harry Elliot Oval on Saturday 11th July.  The age groups involved are U16's, U18's and Seniors.  This showcases some of the best rugby talent in both States country areas and will doubtless see NRL Club representatives at the games scouting for future players.

Games will kick off at 12 midday with Country Rugby League Under 16's playing Queensland Maroons, then 1.30pm Country Under 18's vs Queensland Maroons. The main game will start at 3pm Country Firsts vs Queensland Rangers. Both teams will be in camp in and around town for the week prior.

 For more information go to www.crlnsw.com.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Come along to JD's World of Magic on Wednesday 15 July from 2pm - 3pm. An amazing magic show that will make you laugh and smile! It will leave you gob-smacked. Tickets are $5.00 each from the library.

Ever wondered what lives beneath the sea? Join a Discovery Ranger to learn all about animals that spend their life underwater and why ther is a Marine Park to protect them. Make your own sea creature to take home.

Where:  Neranie Campground, at boat ramp end, off Seal Rocks Road
Time: 10am-12noon
Cost: $8 children, adults free if accompanying child

22nd Annual Crazy Shopping Day with bargain sales and specials to be found throughout town - Forster Shopping Village, Wharf Street and Tuncurry. Entertainment and fun for everyone with a Jumping Castle, Rides, Clowns and much more. Wharf St will be closed for what is the towns biggest trading day of the year.

Free buses running from Gloucester, Taree, Pacific Palms, Bulahdelah, Old Bar and Wingham.

You'd be Crazy to miss it......

Two amazing artists - don't miss this show! Starring internationally renowned direct from Canada, Dave Battah presents the ultimate tribute to Rod Stewart. Dave creates a performance that should not be missed by any fan!

You can also "Turn Back Time" with your favourite songs of Cher starring Anna Lawley. Tickets cost $18 for members, $21 for visitors and groups of 10 or more only $15 each.

FRIDAY:  Forster Golf Club 9 hole Ambrose

SATURDAY: Fred Williams' will be hosting a day to showcase some of the Veteran Boats that once raced on Piper's Creek and there will be Power Boats practising and holding race heats. There will be a Jumping Castle, Slides and Face Painting for the kiddies.

Boaties & Skiers Reunion Dinner - catch up with past and present champions. Ticket price includes 2 course meal and entertainment featuring Mick Buckley. Tickets $40 pp, available from Club Forster. Bookings essential. All proceeds from the night go the Forster Keys Family Funday

SUNDAY: The popular Forster Sunday Markets will start at 9am with other events such as a Dog Show, Chocolate Wheel, Kiddies Games & Activities, Fishing Comp, Cycling Proficiency, Surf Boat, Veteran Boat & Barefoot Skiing displays, Power Boat Races, GLFM Radio and Music happening throughout the day.

Food and refreshments will be available both days, courtesy of the resident volunteers.

For more info go to: www.forsterkeys.com

Holiday Art at the Library during the school holidays will be held on Friday 17th July from 10am - 11.30am. A fantastic holiday activity with all materials being supplied. You must wear an art smock and tickets are $8.00 each available from the library.

Forster Bowling Club will present the 2009 Pelican Men's 2 Bowl Triples tournament on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July. Prize money will be to the value of $3000. The entry fee per team is $75 which includes lunch for both days. For entry form, please contact the club. Entries to be sent to Forster Bowling Club or faxed.

The Forster-Tuncurry Bridge will be 50 years old on 18th July 2009. To celebrate, there will be a family fun day with a band, vintage cars, boats, rides and entertainment for all ages in both John Wright Park and John Holland Park.  More details to follow soon.

Come and enjoy the weekend and catch up with past and present champions. Ticket price includes 2 course meal and entertainment featuring Mick Buckley. Tickets are only $40 pp and are available from Club Forster or Fred Williams (numbers listed above). Bookings are essential. All proceeds from the night go the Forster Keys Family Funday - Friday 17th Forster Golf Club 9 hole Ambrose; Saturday 18th Boat Displays at Forster Keys and Sunday 19th Boat races, hydro runs, vintage boat displays, stalls, rides & entertainment all day.

Gardening demonstrations are held in conjunction with the Forster Farmers Market and include an educational talk on different topics each month in relation to organic gardening.

July 18 marks the 49th annual festival held between the four townships of STROUD in Canada, UK, USA and Australia. This annual event is held on the third Saturday each year in each of the countries, and results compiled on an international basis following the event.

Here in Stroud the day commences at 11am with a procession through the main street to the showground where the day's activities will take place. A program of events such as wood chopping, tug-o-war, market stalls, professional foot races and other novelty events then takes place throughout the day. Muscical displays by various bands are sure to keep the crowds toes tapping.

Steve from Heliservices will be on hand if you'd like to take a helicopter ride and see the event from above. Or if reptiles are your thing, make to catch the Croc Stars show on the main stage. This event has grown steadily since 1961 and is considered a very unique and interesting day. A day full of fun and enjoyment for the whole family.

The annual book fair run by the Rotary Club of Tuncurry Forster promises to be better than ever. This year we expect more books than ever before. In fact well over 30,000 along with hundreds more records, tapes, CDs, DVDs, magazines and other items. At present the club is collecting more books for sorting. Any books donated by the public can be left in collection boxes located at the following venues:

Commonwealth Bank, Wharf St & Stockland Centre, Forster; NRMA Stockland; Fairway Butchery, Boundary St., Forster; Tuncurry Craft Shop, 78 Manning St., Tuncurry; Great Lakes Tyrepower, 24 Pine Ave., Tuncurry; No Bull Gourmet Meats, Forster Keys Shopping Centre.

Refreshments will be available on Saturday and Sunday from the club's barbecue with morning teas supplied by Rotary's Forster Tuncurry Inner Wheel together with book bags made by its members. Inner Wheel's profits will assist their cord blood research project.  Sat & Sun 9am - 4pm  Mon 9am - 12noon.

Join the Discovery Rangers at Elizabeth Beach and explore the magic of the rainforest in beautiful Booti Booti National Park. Children under 12 yrs must be accompanied by an adult.

Meet:  Elizabeth Beach picnic area, Booti Booti National Park
Time: 9am-11am
Cost: $6 children, $8 adults, $22 family
Bring:  hat, sunscreen, water, snacks & wear fully enclosed walking shoes

Join Discovery Rangers for FUN filled kids adventure!  Ever wondered what animal made that poo (scat) or track? Come along & do some detective work and find out! 

Grade:  Easy
Where:  Neranie Campground at boat ramp end, off Seal Rocks Road
Time: 10am-12noon
Cost: $8 children, adults free if accompanying child
Bring:  hat, sunscreen, water, snacks & wear fully enclosed walking shoes.

Forster District Baptist Church invite you to a Sunshine Hour on Tuesday 21 July at 1.45pm. Come and enjoy a sing-a-long with Denis and Freda. Be entertained by 'The Coomba Choral Group' and John Reading will bring a message. Afternoon tea will be served. All are most welcome to come and enjoy this afternoon with us.

Kids workshop features:

•    Cooking with Chefs - Natalie & Nick
•    Planning & designing your own pizza
•    Learning how to make pizzas
•    Decorating 3 individual pizzas
•    Pizza party pack including apron, recipe book & "take home" pack

Bookings essential by 16th July - payment in full at time of booking (Limit 12 children per class) Time: 10am - 11.30am   Cost: $20 per child ~ Parental supervision essential at workshop ~ suitable for kids aged 5yrs - 12yrs

Dates: Wednesday 22nd July, Thursday 23rd July & Friday 24th July

Forster Library is presenting a Bunnings DIY Workshop for children during the school holidays on Wednesday 22nd July from 10.30am  - 11.30am. Bookings are essential as there are limited spaces - the workshop is free of charge. Tickets are available at the library.

Join Discovery Rangers in search of our elusive, nocturnal Australian animals.  You may be lucky enough to see Ring-tailed Possums, Sugar and Squirrel Gliders and Powerful and Tawny Frogmouth Owls as they are waking up - just as we're going to sleep!

Grade:  Easy
Where:  Neranie Campground, boat ramp end, off Seal Rocks Road
Time:  6:30pm - 8:30pm
Cost: $6 children, $8 adults, $22 family

Join a Discovery Ranger to learn all about some of the dangerous animals under the sea and their adaptations for survival, some of which are harmful to man!  Learn about how to find them, what they look like & what to do if and when you meet them!

Meet:  The Ruins Campground, off Lakes Way, Pacific Palms
Time: 2pm-4pm
Cost: $8 children, adults free if accompanying child

Amphibians are an amazing ancient group of animals that can survive in a variety of environments.  Listen and look for some local frogs and discuss ways in which you can attract frogs to your own garden and how to recognise the invasive cane toad.

Meet:  Gur-um-bee picnic area approx. 5km along Sugar Creek Road
Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm
Cost: $6 children, $8 adults, $22 family
Bring:  torch, water, snacks, warm clothes & wear fully enclosed footwear that can get wet

Come & explore the wonders of the night sky & celebrate the International Year of Astronomy with the Discovery Rangers.  Listen to some stories and spot a few stars and other galactic wonders! You never know what might be up there?

Grade:  Easy
Where:  Ruins Campground, off Lakes Way, Pacific Palms
Time: 6pm-8pm
Cost: $6 children, $8 adults, $22 family

The 2009 Pelican Mixed Pairs day will be held on Sunday July 26 with prize money to the value of $2000. Entry forms available at the bowling club and entry fee is $40 per team which includes lunch.

Another knock-out rock'n'roll weekend at beautiful Forster. Lots of entertainment, a Hot Rod & Street Cruiser Show and Shine, 5 piece 50's rock'n'roll the way it was. Vehicle exhibitors to contact 6552 5339 for the 'Show & Shine' - make, model and year of your car needed for the laminated windscreen sign. On Sunday afternoon at 2pm come along to Club Forster for "The Early Years of Elvis Show". All tickets $10.00 - you'll swear you're back in the 50's. Book this one at the club itself.

Events August 2009

Club Forster is presenting Young Elvis and the New Generation on Sunday 2nd August at 2.00pm in the auditorium. All tickets are $10 and available from Club Forster.

The Great Lakes Catholic Community, Holy Name School and the Parents and Friends Association cordially invite all to attend the event of 2009 - a weekend celebration of 50 years of Catholic Education in Forster/Tuncurry.

Lets' have a Ball! Please join us, gather your friends, dress to impress, dive in and enjoy a night "Under the Sea"  with a black tie ball at Club Forster on Saturday August 8 2009 arrival 6.30pm for 7.15pm dinner. Enjoy a two course meal, then dance the night away to the sounds of "The Flamin' Bullantz". Tickets are on sale now and cost $70.00 per head with tables of 10 available. Don't miss out, start organising your table now (individual tickets are also available). Ticket payment and collection at Holy Name School Office.

Sunday August 9 - the Mary McKillop Mass & Family Picnic Day. Mass will be held at 11am in the grounds of Holy Name School to honour Mary McKillop's Feast Day followed by a family picnic day, celebrations and hall dedication. Come and enjoy!

A full day of Cattle Dog Trials, this year's is held in association with the Hunter Valley Cutting Horse Club. A programme of cutting (horses working with cattle) horse shoeing competition and other activities. This is an annual event and refreshments will be available. Showground open from 9am - 5pm.

Gardening demonstrations are held in conjunction with the Forster Farmers Market and include an educational talk on different topics each month in relation to organic gardening.

Club Forster presents Nearly Neil - a Tribute to Neil Diamond on Sunday 16th  August at 2.30pm. Seating is reserved and tickets are priced at $23 for members, $25 for visitors with groups of 10 for only $20 each. Tickets may be purchased from Club Forster.

The Myall Community Art and Craft Centre is a community organisation run by volunteers as a community. Meetings are held at 1.30pm on the second Saturday of the month at the Craft Centre and visitors are always welcome. An Open Day will be held from 10-4pm and all craft will be demonstrated. Entry is free and all are welcome.

Forster Women's Bowling Club will be holding the Hibiscus Carnival on Monday August 24th commencing at 9.30am after 9.00am Morning Tea. Entry fee for nominated fours is $32.00 per team. Enctries close on 17th August with the Hon Secretary. Prize money is listed on the entry form.

Forster Bowling Club will present the Men's Spring Triples on Wednesday 26th August with prize money of $1000, the Ladies Spring Triples on Thurs 27th August with prize money of $1000 and the Mixed Spring Triples on Friday 28th August also with prize money of $1000. The entry fee of $20 per player per event includes lunch. Entry forms available from Forster Bowling Club.

Events September 2009

The Small Footprint Initiative is a community run event to encourage a positive local spirit, directed towards raising awareness of a healthy, active, socially and ecologically responsible lifestyle in our area.

The proposed format for the initiative includes a "slow food" organic wine dinner and entertainment on Friday evening with Saturday's events centring on sustainable home tours, demonstrations and workshops (Pacific Palms). Sunday will include a much wider variety of information and education stalls, workshops and discussions. There will also be a strong push towards fun & educational children's activities. This will include hands on science experiments including water testing and gardening, as well as face painting, craft projects, games, live music, etc.

For more info go to: www.smallfootprint.com.au

The Annual Holy Name School Fete is on again at Lake Street, Forster rain, hail or shine with all the favourite stalls returning once again. Craft, Books, Toys, White Elephant, Chocolate Wheel, Face Painting, Plants and Cakes. Plenty of Children's Activities and BBQ Food available. Open from 10am to 2pm this Annual Fete is not to be missed.

The Stroud Rodeo is included in the top 10 rodeo events in Australia, attracting 800 competitors and 1000 entries, competing in Bullriding, Bronc Riding, Bulldogging and Barrel Racing. There will also be a campdraft coinciding with the Rodeo and Live Entertainment with Fully Licenced Bar.

Admission: Adults $12 Children $6 (15yrs & under) ~ No Concessions ~ Strictly No BYO and No Glass

For more info go to: www.stroudnsw.com.au/rodeo

A Masquerade Party will be held at Club Forster on 19th September in aid of the  Forster Tuncurry Volunteer Coastal Patrol. Tickets are priced at $65 per head and the function will run from 6pm till Midnight. Tickets are available from the Coastal Patrol 6554 5458 or Sue Welch 6554 6108.

Gardening Demonstrations are held in conjunction with the Forster Farmers Market and include an educational talk on different topics each month in relation to organic gardening.

Walk on the Wild Side ~ 'walks & talks in Hawks Nest' - is a weekend jam-packed with fun activities for all members of the community. The overwhelming success of last year's festival has led to an even bigger event program this year, with a host of activities designed to capitalise on the plethora of natural resources in Hawks Nest.

The weekend is shaping up to include talks about local koalas and birdlife, live music in the park, a Feast on the Wildside, Food & Wine Street Fair, a twilight BBQ at the Surf Club, and also Helicopter Joy Flights. The well known Myall Quays Markets will be operating also. This is definately an event for the whole family, with lots of FREE activities for children and adults alike.

Catch the Ferry from Nelson Bay & then free community bus to the action in Hawks Nest.  All local shops, cafes & restaurants will be open ready to make this a festival one to remember.

For event program & information go to www.wildsidefestival.com.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Watch the kayakers depart on their 47km paddle up the magical Myall River, all to raise money for the “Cure for Life Foundation”. Enjoy a bacon and egg roll freshly cooked by the Lions Club. The action starts on the banks of the Myall, alongside the NSW Maritime Office, on Marine Drive, Tea Gardens at 8.00am.

Events October 2009

Hot new initiative for the art life of Mid North Coast NSW, presenting original locally-made productions among short films from all over the world.

Launched by former head of Australia Film Commission, the Festival will show under-30-minute films from Canada, UK, US and Europe as well as a host of local talent.

For more info go to: www.forsterfilmfestival.com.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

The Myall Community Art and Craft Centre is a self funded community organisation run by volunteers as a service to the community. The show will feature Patchwork, Quilting and Embroidery.  Admission: $2.50 Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm. A raffle will be held at a cost of $2 per ticket to be drawn at 4pm on Monday 5th October with 1st prize being a queen size bed quilt and 2nd prize a single bed quilt.

The Blessing of the Fleet procession commences after a 9am special mass at Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Tuncurry.  At 10am the Italian community leads a colourful procession through the streets of Tuncurry to the waterfront at Tuncurry carrying a statue of Madonna Dei Martiri, patroness of fishermen. There, a decorated trawler will escort the Madonna and Father Kevin Corrigan to the waiting fleet in the channel. This tradition originated in Molfetta, Italy and came to Tuncurry 45 years ago, an annual blessing for a safe and plentiful season for all seafarers. This spectacular procession is a must see on the long weekend. Includes NSW Department of Primary Industries Trophy for Best Decorated Fishing Boat (commercial or recreational).

The Wildcat Regatta has achieved legendary status as the most popular and "must do" regatta amongst catamaran sailors along Australia's east coast. No other regatta draws as many competitors to the one event. This is Australia's largest catamaran regatta with an international class attracting Olympic and world champions, Masters and Junior Series.

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Gardening demonstrations are held in conjunction with the Forster Farmers Market and include an educational talk on different topics each month in relation to organic gardening.

Forster Bowling Club presents the 15th Annual Major Minors Pairs Classic with $7000 prize money on offer commencing Monday October 26 through to Thursday October 29. Entry forms are available from the bowling club and the entry fee is $60.

The award winning Myall River Festival is a family-friendly day, with a large variety of market stalls, stage entertainment, river activities, games and competitions for the kids, all taking place on the magical waterfront of Tea Gardens, beside the Myall River.

This year organizers are planning to include:
· Camel rides
· a landscape painting competition ($500!)
· “Fame” art exhibition by three local artists
· a second stage for live music
· Circus show & workshop
· Bungee trampoline
· Wood chopping event
· “Photo-Speak” photographic exhibition

The Festival will also feature its usual attractions such as:
· Sail past (River Parade)
· Tracey McKibbon’s Dance School display
· Surf Lifesaving Club river rescue demonstrations
· Duck race
· Live band on main stage from 12 noon
· Vintage car display
· Over 70 x market stalls
· Displays and giveaways

So bring your hat, sunscreen and the whole family! 

For event program & information go to www.myallriverfestival.com.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Events November 2009

Forster Women's Bowling Club is hosting the Pelican Classic Triples on Monday 9th November with total prize money to the value of $1290. Entry fee is $24 per team and forms are available from Forster Bowling Club.

This annual Agricultural Show incorporates a full program of ring events, wood chopping, rodeo, working cattle dog trials, whipcracking, junior showgirl competition, pavilion displays, pet show, music, evening entertainment & children’s activities.

The passionate sport of triathlon is set to return to the birth place of Australian Ironman on 14/15 Nov 2009 at Forster NSW.

While most events around the country cater for the elitist and seasoned age groupers, the weekend activities will focus on the family with an event schedule to suit ALL levels of fitness and all ages. Saturday's schedule will commence with the Australian Sprint Triathlon Championships [750m (S)/ 20km (B)/ 5km (R) ] followed by the Enticer TRYathlon [300m / 8 km / 2 km] for beginners and first timers.

Once these events are over and the day is warming up, it's time to line the streets and focus on the "kids". The completely traffic free, closed course will see hundreds of kids with smiles on their dials as they "have a go" in the McDonalds MINIMAN [Ages 7-12: 50m /2km /500m & 13-16: 150m/4km/1km]. All these events will be in a safe (enclosed salt water sea pool) and confident environment. EVERY kid who enters before the "due date" will receive an event shirt and a finisher's medal. No timing will be at these events, as we encourage participation over competition. Once these events are over, you can grab a bite to eat at the many funky little cafes along the lake and beach and sit back and watch the fast and furious action of the Elites.

When the sun is at its peak we will start the Pro Tour Triathlon [Enduro Format - 300m (s) /8km (b) /2km (r) / 300m (s) /8km (b)/ 2km (r)]. This event will be draft legal and action packed and we will handicap the men and women. A great spectacle to see the men chase the women for line honours. Once this is over, don't move an inch as we commence the Elite Criterium. See some of NSW's legendary cyclists attack the streets of Forster in an exciting and spectacular finale to the day.

As the sun rises over Main Beach at Forster, hundred of athletes will prepare to reignite the spirit of long distance racing in Forster. The NSW Long Course Triathlon Championships [2km(s) /60km(b) / 15km (r)] will be a visual spectacle with a pristine ocean swim, a 2 lap bike course on the "old stomping grounds" of many a seasoned Ironman, and an undulating run course. Just like the "good old days" the finish will stir the spirits up that famous "finish chute" that has bought many an Ironman to tears.

Entries open 1st June 2009.  For more information go to www.eliteenergy.com.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Gardening demonstrations are held in conjunction with the Forster Farmers Market and include an educational talk on different topics each month in relation to organic gardening.

Events December 2009

Gardening demonstrations are held in conjunction with the Forster Farmers Market and include an educational talk on different topics each month in relation to organic gardening.

Events March 2010

This is a great family day out and rural show with a full program of ring events, rodeo, pavilion displays, show jumping, dog show, grand parade, children's activities and a fireworks finale. Crocodile Encounters is a new feature to this show. This show starts at 7am and finishes at 10pm.

This six-a-side soccer competition is open to both men and women. The games are quick, exciting and very competitive. This competition is regarded as one of the best of it's type in NSW. Free entertainment provided on the Saturday night.

For more info go to: www.thevikings.org.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Events May 2010

Chow down on an adventure combo and follow the path of Anacondal enlightenment by cashing in on Forster’s spectacular landscapes with an adventure weekend like no other…

…coastal running brimming with jaw-dropping scenery; ocean and lake paddling along expanses of stunning coastline and inland lakes; mountain bike riding up secret slopes and down white knuckle descents and swimming in water so pristine you’ll find yourself slowing down to talk to the fish. When it comes to heart-thumping fun, Forster’s adventure haven’s got it in spades.

The new Must-Do event on the national adventure calendar, The Forster Anaconda Adventure Race encourages you to come out of hibernation and polish the rust off your favourite outdoor activity to bag the big one. The Anaconda Adventure Race at Forster offers two unique and equally spectacular adventure race courses on Saturday and on Sunday. Teams and individuals can choose to do both days and gain glory in the Full Anaconda by doing both days, or may complete just the Sunday course with the Anaconda Half. Choose your adventure and reap the rewards.

Legs (Day One)	Team Run (3km) Ocean Swim (1.9km / 500m run / 500m swim) Ocean Paddle (13.8km) Mountain Bike (19km) Coastal / Trail Run (11km)
Legs (Day Two)	Ocean Swim (1.9km) Coastal / Trail Run (16km) Mountain Bike (30km) Lake Paddle (13km) Bridge / Beach Run (3km

For more information go to: www.rapidascent.com.au

To check out exclusive special offers & to book your event accommodation online please click here Alternatively, you can contact our booking service on freecall 1800 802 692  or email us at tourism@greatlakes.nsw.gov.au. ALL Booking Services are completely FREE.

Saturday 1st May will see Junior Spirit back and this year there will be bigger obstacles, greater challenges, more fun and more reasons to get involved. The Junior Spirit is part of the larger Anaconda Adventure Race Forster, which last year saw over 640 kids participating. The Junior Spirit is all about motivating children to lead a healthy, active lifestyle and explore their environment.  It's about encouraging them to 'get off the couch', into the outdoors and to show them the fun & enjoyment they can experience outside by themselves or with others without intense competition. One not to miss!!