At a time where we're all a little on edge, perhaps it's opportune to think of ways we can support communities without actually travelling there.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
After the ravaging bushfires we flocked to affected areas, filling our eskies, staying with them, spending with them. Canberrans love the south coast; the south coast, in many ways, relies on the influx of visitors or those who own houses in the area.
It was somewhat sad to see the animosity which arose around Easter. South coast residents urged tourists to stay away, many Canberrans defied the travel ban. Both groups were equally as vocal.
Rob Crow, chair of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group, said many businesses were still struggling after the bushfires.
"January is typically around one-third of the annual income of a tourism business," he said.
"But, with resilient spirits and a bit of creativity, Shoalhaven businesses have risen up adapting their business models to sell much-loved products online and bring virtual experiences, vouchers and gift ideas to our loyal visitors."
Local operators are now delivering orders Australia-wide, from art and homewares, to food products and experiences, there's a wide range of offerings available for Australians to show support to Shoalhaven businesses.
So until we can once again pack our bags and head over the Clyde, there's no reason to miss out on the best the south coast has to offer. Well apart from the actual beaches. Until then, enjoy.
Retail
With Mother's Day fast approaching, Shoalhaven retailers are hoping customers come to them to get mum a special gift and support vulnerable businesses at the same time. Beloved Boho and Maple Ridge Jervis Bay have a range of candles and Australian-made body products soaps and bath bombs. Grab some women's clothing and jewellery from Miss Moss Milton or homewares and online e-styling advice from Few and Far.
This Old House is offering virtual crafting workshops and selling craft kits online; and award-winning photographer and local Jordan Robins is selling prints of his stunning landscape and wildlife photography.
Food and beverage
Flamin Galah Brewing Co, the South Coast's newest beer producer, has pivoted during the COVID-19 crisis and is now producing its very own pink Flamin Galah hand sanitiser. The team at Flamin Galah are also donating 10 per cent of each batch of sanitiser it produces to Shoalhaven Hospital to ensure it has the stock it needs for the front-line workers.
Another innovative operator is Greendale's Café. Head chef and owner Allan Harvey is an award-winning maker of preserves, and his scones are famous across the region and beyond. With a bit more free time on his hands, Harvey is taking to the café's Facebook page to share his recipes with the world.
A region known for its incredible wines and delicious local produce, Shoalhaven producers have been quick to get their products online. Award-winning winery Cupitt's Estate not only have its full range of superior wines available online but also offer produce for the perfect wine-paired cheeseboard; Number 19 worldwide on Bean Hunter, Hyper Hyper is selling its famous coffee beans by the bag so customers can remain caffeinated at home; and The Berry Tea Shop has its unique tea blends and accessories available for order.
Another award-winning winery and alpaca farm, Silos Estate is slinging its delicious vintage wines and alpaca wool products; From chocolates, sweets and condiments, gourmet food producer The Treat Factory has plenty on offer; while Clayridge Honey also has its entire range of 100 per cent raw, natural Australian honey online for sale.
Experiences
Being surrounded by incredible landscapes, the Shoalhaven is known for the many activities tourists can enjoy on trips away. With the current advice being to stay home, these operators are suffering the most. The stunning Bannisters by The Sea at Mollymook can't take guests at the moment but have gift vouchers for its luxury spa and accommodation vouchers; Eqwine Escapes is also offering vouchers for its Ride, Wine and Dine experiences as well as Outdoor Raw and their rock climbing experiences; and Wandering Yoga are taking their services to the digital realm with online classes that can be done from the comfort of home.
If you're already based at the coast, many operators have pivoted to offering delivery and takeaway services for Shoalhaven locals. The Ruse, a restaurant and bar that opened just before the bushfire season is offering delivery of its Central American menu and has even created a special cocktail - the Quentin Quarantino - to mark the age of COVID-19. Nowra Farmers Market has fruit and vegetable boxes, while Hampden Deli & Dining and Annie's High Tea also have grazing boxes and care packs available.
- A full list of businesses and offerings available to purchase online will be launched in the coming weeks on shoalhaven.com.