Where To Visit On The South Coast In The Wake Of The NSW Bushfires

  • All Ages

The devastation of the rampant bushfires that have been sweeping across the state in recent months is plain to see on the South Coast of NSW. Homes have been ravaged, lives have been lost, livelihoods destroyed and a new normal established for affected families.

The recent easing of weather conditions in the area, however, has prompted the majority of areas to be declared safe to visit by the NSW Rural Fire Service. Here’s what you need to know.

Re-Open For Business


Image: ABC

The NSW RFS has declared towns and villages in the Shoalhaven region; including coastal hotspots such as Huskisson, Culburra Beach, and Bawley Point to be fit for visitors once again. When considering holidays, South Coast MP, Shelley Hancock, has urged people to “instead of Bali, think Berrara, Nowra instead of Noumea, Huskisson over Hawaii.”

Eurobodalla Shire Council, which stretches from Tilba Tilba to Batemans Bay and includes tourist highlights such as Mystery Bay, Narooma and Malua Bay, has advised that “tourists are encouraged to start returning to the villages and towns along the Far South Coast as weather conditions improve.”

Our Picks

As we know, one of the best ways to support the rebuilding of fire-affected towns is to visit. Whether it’s a weekend away or a week-long road trip, it’s time to get planning a getaway to one of the most beautiful parts of Australia. Here’s where we recommend you check out.


Image: VisitNSW

Huskisson 

One of the Shoalhaven’s most popular hotspots, the crystal blue waters of Jervis Bay Marine Park are well worth a visit. 

Culburra Beach 

Relax in complete tranquillity at this underrated coastal town, beautifully surrounded by river, lake, ocean and national park.

Batemans Bay

Often referred to as the gateway to the South Coast, Bateman’s Bay is the perfect place to support local, rebuilding businesses by eating their delicious seafood and trying your hand at some watersports. 

Bawley Point 

Swim and surf your way around one of the coast’s most pristine coastal hamlets at the beautiful Bawley Point.

Mollymook 

With plenty of places to eat, drink and shop—Mollymook is the ideal town to support the regeneration of local business after the fires. Fishing, diving and snorkelling are all on offer here!

Ulladulla

Renowned for its vibrant energy, fresh, delicious seafood and beautiful beaches, Ulladulla is the perfect base for a South Coast road trip. 


Huskisson, via Shoalhaven Tourism 

Narooma

Swim, snorkel and dive your way around one of the most magical spots on the South Coast;  then check out Montague Island—a wildlife wonderland, home to fur seals and a diverse range of bird species.

Moruya 

A coastal paradise ripe for exploring, the gorgeous coast at Moruya offers no end of active pursuits surrounded by beautiful beaches; whether that’s walking fishing or cycling. 

Go With Empty Eskys


Image: Instagram.com/emptyesky

While towns might be beginning the process of reopening and recovering, rebuilding won’t happen overnight. 

The #GoWithEmptyEskys campaign highlights how important ​​​​​​it is for Australian’s to support the regeneration of bushfire-affected towns by visiting. A viral post by Tegan Weber explaining the movement implores people to “do one simple thing. When these fires have stopped, and the towns impacted are safe and trying to regain some sense of ‘normal’, I want you to plan a road trip. Go with empty eskies, empty cars and low fuel. Go, spend your money, stay in their hotels, buy from their shops, camp at their campgrounds, buy their gifts, buy their fuel, buy bread and milk. Beyond rebuilding, they need continued and long term support to get back on their feet and your empty esky makes more of a difference than you could ever imagine.”

Similar movements, including #BuyFromTheBush and Turia Pitt’s #SpendWithThem; which showcases fire-affected businesses, all have the aim to put money in the pockets of people who need it most—and are wonderful ways of supporting the revival of some of the South Coast’s most popular tourist spots. 

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Hero image: News.com.au
 

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