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Merimbula

Merimbula is a coastal town in the Bega Valley Shire on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, Australia, situated approximately 470 kilometres south of Sydney and roughly halfway between Sydney and Melbourne.^[1]^[2] It lies on the lands traditionally owned by the Yuin people, including the Dyirringany subgroup, with the town's name derived from an Aboriginal term meaning "place of two lakes," referring to Merimbula Lake and Back Lake that flank the settlement.^[1]^[3]^[4] As of the 2021 Australian Census, Merimbula had a population of 3,821, with a median age of 54 years and a focus on tourism, oyster farming, and retirement living.^[5] The area's Indigenous history spans thousands of years, with the Yuin people maintaining a deep connection to the coastal and lake environments, evidenced by ancient oyster middens around Merimbula Lake that indicate long-term sustainable harvesting practices.^[4]^[3] European exploration began in 1797 when George Bass and Matthew Flinders navigated up the Pambula River and into Merimbula Lake, marking early contact with the region.^[4] Settlement accelerated in the 1830s under the Imlay Brothers, who grazed cattle on nearby lands, but the town itself was formally established in 1855 as a private village and port by the Twofold Bay Pastoral Association, which built a wharf to support agriculture and trade.^[6]^[4] By 1860, land allotments were sold following the association's dissolution, and key industries emerged, including a cornflour mill established in 1867 by Scottish immigrant Matthew Munn, which operated until 1917 and later became a bacon processing plant.^[6] Merimbula served as an important port for the Illawarra and South Coast Steam Navigation Company from the late 19th century until 1952, facilitating coastal shipping, though much of the infrastructure has since disappeared except for two original sheds.^[6] Oyster farming took root after World War I, transforming the area into part of Australia's Oyster Coast and remaining a cornerstone of the local economy today.^[6]^[1] The town was gazetted in 1912 and experienced growth as a holiday resort from the 1950s onward, boosted by improvements to the Princes Highway and its appeal as a serene seaside escape with activities like whale watching, fishing, and boardwalks through mangrove forests and oyster leases.^[4]^[1] Geographically, Merimbula occupies a low-lying coastal position at an elevation of about 9 metres, encompassing Merimbula Bay, Boggy Creek, and over 6 kilometres of sandy beaches such as Merimbula Main Beach and Short Point, which offer surf breaks and calm swimming areas.^[7]^[1] The surrounding landscape includes eucalyptus forests, rainforests like the Goodenia Track, and wildlife sanctuaries such as Potoroo Palace, supporting a diverse ecosystem that attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.^[1] Notable cultural events include the annual Merimbula Jazz Festival, held since 1981 and drawing over 100 bands, underscoring the town's vibrant community life.^[8]

Geography

Location and physical features

Merimbula is situated on the Sapphire Coast along the Far South Coast of New South Wales, Australia, approximately 470 kilometres south of Sydney and bordering the Pacific Ocean. The town lies at coordinates 36°53′53″S 149°54′04″E and has an average elevation of 11 meters above sea level, contributing to its low-lying coastal topography. It forms part of the Bega Valley Shire local government area, with adjacent suburbs such as Tura Beach to the north enhancing the broader coastal district. The town's geography is defined by its proximity to Merimbula Lake, a shallow coastal lake covering about 4.5 square kilometres that intermittently opens to the ocean and features extensive intertidal flats. This estuary connects directly to the Pacific Ocean via a managed entrance, creating a dynamic interface of marine and freshwater influences. Surrounding the lake and town are prominent physical features, including sandy beaches such as Main Beach—a long, family-friendly stretch ideal for swimming—and Short Point Beach, known for its surfing breaks and panoramic coastal views. Merimbula's landscape encompasses diverse landforms, including coastal dunes that stabilize the shoreline, wetlands associated with the lake's fringes, and a forested hinterland of eucalypt woodlands and heathlands. To the north, Bournda National Park protects over 2,655 hectares of rugged coastline, lagoons, and native bushland, providing a natural buffer and habitat corridor adjacent to the town. These elements create a mosaic of estuaries, sand spits, and elevated ridges that shape the area's scenic and ecological profile. Environmentally, Merimbula supports significant biodiversity, particularly in its marine and estuarine habitats. The lake's seagrass beds, dominated by species like Zostera capricorni, cover large portions of the shallow floor and serve as critical nurseries for fish species and invertebrates. These meadows also underpin a thriving oyster industry, with native Sydney rock oysters (Saccostrea glomerata) farmed across the nutrient-rich waters, sustaining both ecological balance and local aquaculture. Merimbula Point holds notable palaeontological importance due to its exposure of ancient sedimentary rocks from the Late Devonian Merimbula Group, which contain fossilized remains of early vertebrates. Among these are fragments of placoderm fish, including the genus Merimbulaspis, an antiarch with distinctive tuberculate ornamentation, offering insights into Devonian marine life in the region. These geological features underscore the area's long stratigraphic history, with unconformable layers of sandstones, mudstones, and conglomerates preserving evidence of prehistoric coastal environments.

Climate

Merimbula experiences an oceanic climate classified as Cfb under the Köppen-Geiger system, characterized by mild temperatures year-round and moderate rainfall without extreme seasonal variations. Average temperatures are temperate, with a mean maximum of 24.3°C in January during summer and 15.8°C in July during winter; corresponding mean minima are 15.1°C and 4.4°C, respectively. Recorded extremes range from a low of -2.1°C in July 1970 to a high of 42.8°C in January 1990, though such outliers are rare due to the moderating influence of nearby coastal waters. Annual rainfall averages 830 mm, distributed relatively evenly but with wetter conditions in summer, peaking at 91 mm in March, while winter months like July see about 41 mm; patterns are influenced by El Niño-Southern Oscillation cycles, leading to occasional droughts during El Niño phases. Predominant southerly to southeasterly winds average 18.3 km/h at 3 p.m. annually, contributing to high coastal humidity levels around 73% at 9 a.m., with a low risk of severe storms but periodic coastal erosion from wave action. Australia recorded its second-warmest year in 2024 at 1.46°C above the 1961–1990 average, amplifying local temperature increases in regions like New South Wales. Rising sea levels, projected at 0.4 m by 2050 and up to 0.9 m by 2100 under intermediate emissions scenarios, pose risks to Merimbula's lake and beach areas through increased flooding and erosion.^[9]

History

Indigenous and early history

The Merimbula region, situated on the south coast of New South Wales, forms part of the traditional lands of the Yuin people, also known as the Thurga in some historical contexts, who have maintained custodianship over this area for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence, including shell middens at nearby Pambula River dating back over 4,000 years, attests to sustained occupation, with these sites containing layers of shellfish remains such as oysters and mutton fish alongside stone artefacts used for processing resources.^[10] Additional indicators of long-term presence include scarred trees and occupation deposits around Wallaga Lake and coastal zones near Merimbula, reflecting seasonal camps and resource exploitation.^[11] Oral histories preserved by Yuin elders, such as those from Pam Flanders and John Dixon, describe family-based camping and fishing practices at sites like Murunna Point (also known as Wintles) on Merimbula Lake, emphasizing intergenerational knowledge transmission.^[10] Prior to European contact, the Merimbula area served as a vital fishing and gathering ground for the Yuin, with the lake and surrounding estuaries providing abundant marine resources like fish, shellfish, and seabird eggs accessed via canoes from nearby inlets such as Wagonga. Tools including wooden spears crafted from local trees like Goorarah and stone implements found in middens facilitated hunting eels, fish, and other prey, supporting communal feasts and trade networks along the coast.^[11]^[10] The landscape held deep spiritual significance, with connections to Dreaming tracks and ceremonial sites extending to nearby features like Gulaga (Mount Dromedary) for women's initiations and Mumbulla Mountain for broader Yuin rituals, underscoring the holistic bond between people, water bodies, and land.^[11]

European settlement and modern development

European exploration of the Merimbula area began in late 1797 when George Bass surveyed nearby Twofold Bay during his whaleboat voyage south along the southeastern Australian coast.^[12] Settlement followed in the mid-19th century with the Imlay Brothers grazing cattle on nearby lands in the 1830s, establishing Merimbula as a small fishing village amid pastoral activities that displaced Indigenous land use. The town was formally established in 1855 as a private village and port by the Twofold Bay Pastoral Association, which built an initial wharf; land allotments were sold in 1860 following the association's dissolution.^[6] By the late 1800s, maritime trade grew, with shipping supporting local produce exports from the region.^[13] A pivotal development occurred in 1901 with the construction of the Merimbula Wharf, coinciding with Australian Federation and serving as a key export point for timber and dairy products from southeastern New South Wales' agricultural and mining sectors.^[14] The wharf facilitated coastal shipping, transforming the area from isolated outposts into connected economic nodes and underscoring Merimbula's role as a maritime hub during the Federation era.^[15] This infrastructure supported steady growth through the early 20th century, though reliance on sea transport persisted until broader economic shifts. Following World War II, Merimbula experienced a tourism boom as improved road access drew holidaymakers from Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra, leading to an influx of retirees and seasonal residents who later settled permanently.^[3] The opening of Merimbula Airport in 1959 enhanced connectivity, boosting visitor numbers and accelerating the town's evolution from a maritime-focused community to a residential and leisure destination.^[16] This period marked a decline in traditional shipping and a rise in lifestyle-driven development, with tourism supplanting earlier industries. In recent years, Merimbula has continued its urban evolution through targeted infrastructure projects. In August 2025, the New South Wales government announced $5 million funding for a runway extension at Merimbula Airport, with works expected to increase its length from 1,602 to 1,800 metres starting in 2026 to accommodate larger aircraft and support growing air traffic.^[17] Boardwalk and Foreshore Path upgrades were approved in July 2025, with tenders issued in August 2025, introducing elevated structures, new viewing platforms, and enhanced accessibility features to better serve pedestrians, including those with mobility needs.^[18] These initiatives, alongside Merimbula's recognition as New South Wales' top small tourism town for 2025, highlight its ongoing transition to a premier coastal tourist hub.^[19]

Demographics

Population statistics

According to the 2021 Australian Census, Merimbula had a population of 3,821 residents, comprising 46.7% males (1,785 individuals) and 53.3% females (2,035 individuals), with a median age of 54 years.^[5] This reflects a relatively mature demographic, where over 33% of residents were aged 65 or older.^[5] The Estimated Resident Population for the broader Merimbula-Millingandi district is estimated at 5,129 as of 2025, following modest growth.^[20] In the surrounding Merimbula-Tura Beach statistical area, which encompasses nearby locales like Tura Beach, the population stood at 11,632 as of August 2025, up from 11,483 recorded in the 2021 Census.^[21] Population projections for the Merimbula-Millingandi district anticipate further growth to 5,704 by 2046, driven by sustained but gradual increases.^[20] Housing data from the 2021 Census shows 2,551 total private dwellings in Merimbula, with 1,717 occupied, reflecting a high occupancy rate among permanent residents.^[5] The median weekly household income was $1,146, while the median weekly rent for rented dwellings was $310; home ownership remains prevalent, with 40.8% of dwellings owned outright and 22.2% owned with a mortgage, particularly favored by the retiree segment of the population.^[5] Merimbula's population growth is primarily fueled by net internal migration, attracting retirees to its coastal appeal, which offsets low birth rates and limited natural increase.^[22] This influx of older migrants contributes to the area's aging profile, influencing local cultural dynamics as explored in demographic composition analyses.^[22]

Cultural and ethnic composition

Merimbula's population is predominantly of Anglo-Australian descent, with the 2021 Census recording English ancestry as the most common at 46.1%, followed by Australian at 35.3%, Irish at 13.6%, and Scottish at 11.5%.^[5] Small European migrant communities are present, including German ancestry at 4.6% and 5.6% of residents born in England.^[5] Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people comprise 2.2% of the population, reflecting a modest Indigenous presence in the area.^[5] The cultural life of Merimbula is shaped by its strong retiree community, with a median age of 54 years that fosters a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere emphasizing lifestyle amenities.^[5] This demographic drives active participation in arts and volunteerism, supported by organizations such as the Merimbula & District Arts Group, which promotes fine arts through exhibitions and cultural events, and the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme, which engages retirees in community support initiatives.^[23]^[24] Annual festivals blend local traditions, including Indigenous-led events like those on the Sapphire Coast that highlight Aboriginal heritage through tours and storytelling.^[25] Diversity indicators show a relatively low level of cultural pluralism, with approximately 23.2% of residents born overseas and English spoken at home by 88.8% of the population.^[5] Community groups contribute to reconciliation and multicultural engagement, such as the Social Justice Advocates of the Sapphire Coast, which supports First Nations peoples, and local Reconciliation Week activities that educate on Aboriginal history and culture.^[26]^[27] Social trends include high net internal migration from urban areas, attracting newcomers seeking a slower-paced coastal lifestyle, which reinforces the community's focus on retiree-friendly amenities over ethnic diversity.^[20]^[28]

Government and economy

Local government

Merimbula is located within the Bega Valley Shire, which was formed in 1981 through the amalgamation of the Municipality of Bega, Imlay Shire, and Mumbulla Shire.^[29] The shire council's headquarters are in Bega, approximately 25 kilometers inland from Merimbula, which serves as one of the shire's primary coastal centers and administrative hubs for southern areas.^[2] The Bega Valley Shire Council consists of nine elected councillors, serving four-year terms, with the mayor selected through popular vote since the 2024 local government elections.^[30] Current mayor Russell Fitzpatrick was re-elected in 2024, overseeing council decisions on policy and budgeting.^[31] Community input is facilitated through various committees, such as advisory groups on planning and development, allowing residents to contribute to local decision-making processes.^[32] The council provides essential civic services, including waste management through recycling centers, bin collection, and waste minimization programs across the shire.^[33] Parks and open spaces maintenance encompasses the upkeep of 39 playgrounds and coastal reserves, with ongoing strategies to upgrade aging facilities for safety and accessibility.^[34] Community grants support local initiatives, such as the annual Waste Prevention and Innovation Grants offering up to $5,000 for sustainable projects, and broader environment grants promoting regional conservation.^[35] A notable recent initiative is the $8 million NSW Government grant secured in 2023 for the Merimbula Boardwalk upgrade, which includes replacing the existing structure, enhancing foreshore access, and adding tourist features to preserve its status as a key attraction.^[36] Planning in Merimbula is governed by the Bega Valley Local Environmental Plan 2013, which designates zones for residential expansion and tourism-related development to accommodate population growth while prohibiting incompatible uses in sensitive areas.^[37] Environmental protections are embedded in the plan, restricting development around Merimbula Lake and the coastline to safeguard wetlands, biodiversity, and coastal hazards, ensuring sustainable land use aligned with the shire's strategic objectives.^[38]

Economy

Merimbula's economy is predominantly driven by tourism and aquaculture, with these sectors forming the backbone of local employment and revenue generation. Tourism, centered on accommodations, hospitality, and related services, dominates due to the area's coastal appeal and natural attractions, attracting visitors year-round but peaking in summer. In 2025, Merimbula was awarded Gold in the Small Tourism Town category by the NSW Tourism Association, recognizing its excellence in visitor experiences and infrastructure, which has bolstered its status as a key destination on the Sapphire Coast. Aquaculture, particularly oyster farming in Merimbula Lake, is a major export-oriented industry, with production in the broader Sapphire Coast region employing over 100 people and contributing approximately $16 million annually to the local economy. The Merimbula Lake estuary alone generated $7.5 million in household income from aquaculture activities as of 2023. Employment in Merimbula reflects a service-oriented economy tailored to retirees and seasonal visitors, with low unemployment at 3.8% in 2021. Key sectors include accommodation and food services (6.8% of employed residents), aged care residential services (4.7%), and supermarkets (4.1%), alongside retail trade and real estate services that support the influx of older residents seeking lifestyle amenities. The median weekly household income stood at $1,146 in 2021, indicative of a stable but modest economic base sustained by part-time and seasonal work in tourism and hospitality. Health and social assistance also play a significant role, driven by the aging population, while professional services contribute to real estate and retiree support. Recent economic growth has been marked by a post-2023 recovery in visitor numbers, aligning with broader Australian tourism trends where domestic and international arrivals rebounded to near pre-pandemic levels, enhancing spending in Bega Valley Shire where visitors accounted for 33.1% of total expenditure in 2024-25. The ongoing upgrade to Merimbula Airport, including a $5 million runway extension in 2025 to reach 1,800 meters, is expected to improve accessibility and further stimulate tourism inflows. However, challenges persist, including seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers that lead to variable employment, and an aging workforce that strains labor availability in key sectors. Other contributors include commercial fishing and small-scale agriculture, such as dairy farming, which provide supplementary income without the presence of heavy industry.

Infrastructure

Education

Merimbula's primary education is primarily served by Merimbula Public School, a co-educational government school offering classes from Kindergarten to Year 6.^[39] Established in 1875, the school currently enrolls approximately 423 students, including 9% Aboriginal students and 9% with English as an additional language or dialect.^[40]^[41] For secondary education, Merimbula lacks a local high school, so students typically attend Bega High School or Eden Marine High School in nearby towns.^[42] Dedicated school bus services, such as route S321 operated by Sapphire Coast Buslines, facilitate daily travel from Merimbula to these schools.^[43] Higher education options are accessible through the University of Wollongong's Bega Valley campus, located about 20 kilometers away, which offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in fields like nursing, arts, business, and education.^[44] Adult and vocational training is provided via TAFE NSW's Bega campus, emphasizing courses in tourism and hospitality to align with the local economy's reliance on visitor services.^[45]^[46] The Bega Valley Shire, encompassing Merimbula, faces educational challenges from its aging population, with over 33% of residents aged 55 or older—higher than the NSW average of 24.6%—potentially limiting growth in school-age cohorts despite recent enrollment increases at Merimbula Public School.^[47] Community resources, including the Merimbula Library branch of the Bega Valley Shire Library service, support literacy programs and lifelong learning for residents.^[48]

Transport

Merimbula Airport (IATA: MIM), located approximately 3 kilometers from the town center, serves as the primary air gateway for the region, offering domestic flights primarily operated by Qantas and Rex Airlines to major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne.^[49]^[50]^[51] Direct flights to Sydney typically take about 1 hour 15 minutes and cover a distance of 217 miles, with multiple daily services available, while connections to Melbourne operate several times weekly.^[52] These routes support tourism and regional connectivity, facilitating access for visitors to the Sapphire Coast economy.^[17] Road transport dominates Merimbula's connectivity, with the Princes Highway (designated as route A1) functioning as the main arterial route linking the town to Sydney (454 km north) and Melbourne (588 km southwest).^[53] Local bus services and long-distance road coaches, including those from V/Line and NSW Transport, provide public options from Merimbula's coach stop at Park Street, connecting to nearby towns like Eden and broader networks along the highway.^[54]^[55] The highway corridor supports both passenger and freight movements, with ongoing strategies emphasizing its role in regional logistics.^[56] Merimbula lacks rail connections, as the historical network never extended to the far south coast, relying instead on road and air for intercity travel.^[57] Cycling infrastructure includes the 10-kilometer sealed Merimbula to Pambula Cycle and Walkway, which follows the foreshore and bridges, offering a scenic, family-friendly path for local and recreational use.^[58] For freight, the town benefits from proximity to the Port of Eden, about 25 kilometers south, which handles regional exports via road linkages.^[59] Recent developments have enhanced transport options, including a $5 million NSW Government-funded runway extension at Merimbula Airport announced in August 2025, increasing the take-off length from 1,602 meters to 1,800 meters to accommodate larger aircraft and expand services.^[17] Post-2023 improvements, such as pavement strengthening and the airport's master plan targeting 2043, have boosted capacity, with approximately 8,320 total aircraft movements recorded in 2023.^[60]^[61] Additionally, electric vehicle charging stations were added in 2024 at locations including Merimbula Plaza and NRMA-affiliated sites, supporting sustainable travel along the Sapphire Coast.^[62]^[63]

Healthcare

Merimbula's healthcare services are primarily provided through general practitioner clinics and nearby subacute facilities, with more comprehensive acute care available in Bega. The Merimbula Medical Centre offers general practice services, including routine consultations and vaccinations, located at 77 Merimbula Drive.^[64] Other local options include the Main Street Medical Centre, which provides accredited family medicine, and the Sapphire Clinic, a multi-purpose centre with GP, allied health, and specialist services.^[65]^[66] The Pambula Health Service, approximately 15 km from Merimbula, operates as a 12-bed subacute facility focusing on rehabilitation, palliative care, and allied health support.^[67] For acute emergencies, residents rely on the South East Regional Hospital in Bega, about 30 km away, which handles major procedures and has an emergency department.^[68] Aged care services cater to the area's significant retiree population, with facilities such as Albert Moore Gardens, a 68-resident community offering residential nursing and communal living options.^[69] Additional support includes the Sapphire Coast Aged Care's Imlay House for residential care and home services.^[70] An ambulance station at 1 Wyeebo Street provides emergency response coverage for Merimbula and surrounding areas.^[71] Telehealth has expanded in the region since 2023, enabling remote consultations through local clinics like Bega Valley Medical Practice and specialist services at South East Regional Hospital.^[72]^[68] The local health profile reflects an aging demographic, with 30.6% of Bega Valley residents (including Merimbula) aged 65 or older as of 2024, contributing to higher rates of chronic conditions such as arthritis (16.0% prevalence), diabetes (4.8%), and heart disease (4.5%).^[73] Preventive care emphasizes coastal lifestyle risks, including skin cancer screening, amid a regional death rate of 16.9 per 100,000 from skin cancer between 2019 and 2023.^[73] Recent initiatives include COVID-19 vaccination services at the Merimbula Medical Centre and other local sites during 2023-2024, supporting booster campaigns.^[74] Bega Valley Council runs community health programs, such as health promotion activities and wellbeing support through centres like the Bega Community Health Centre, focusing on improving access and addressing local priorities.^[75]^[76]

Recreation and culture

Sport

Merimbula offers a variety of organized sports that leverage its coastal location and community facilities, fostering active lifestyles among residents. Popular activities include surfing, golf, rugby league, and soccer, supported by local clubs and reserves that host regular competitions and training sessions.^[77]^[78] Surfing is a key sport at Main Beach, where consistent waves attract enthusiasts for body surfing and board riding, with the beach patrolled during summer for safety.^[79] The Pambula-Merimbula Golf Club features a 27-hole championship course winding through native bushland near Merimbula Lake, drawing players for its scenic challenges and year-round play.^[80] Rugby league is prominent through the Merimbula-Pambula Bulldogs club, which competes in Group 16 and fields junior and senior teams with a history dating to 1924.^[81] Soccer, along with cricket and Australian rules football, is played at the Berrambool Sporting Complex, a central venue just 500 meters from Merimbula's town center.^[78] Major facilities include the Sapphire Aquatic Centre, an indoor complex with a heated 25-meter lap pool, program pool, splash area, and gym for swimming and fitness programs open nearly year-round.^[82] The Ford Park Multi-Use Courts host netball and basketball competitions, accommodating local associations like the Sapphire Coast Netball Association.^[83] These venues support team sports and individual training, enhanced by the area's natural coastal settings for outdoor activities.^[84] Community involvement is strong, with annual sports carnivals such as school athletics events at Berrambool Oval drawing families and youth for track and field competitions.^[85] Fishing competitions organized by the Merimbula Big Game & Lakes Angling Club, including the annual Merimbula Open and junior events during school holidays, engage over 200 young participants and promote family participation.^[86] High involvement from retirees and families is evident in clubs like the Bulldogs and netball associations, where intergenerational play boosts local engagement.^[87]^[88] Notable aspects include the Pambula Surf Life Saving Club, which patrols nearby beaches and conducts training and rescues, contributing to community safety since 1914.^[89] Walking tracks for fitness, such as the Merimbula Exercise Stations Fitness Trail from Spencer Park to Ford Park, feature equipment like stretch bars and step-ups to encourage outdoor exercise among all ages.^[90]

Events

Merimbula hosts several prominent annual events that draw visitors to the Sapphire Coast, fostering community spirit and boosting local tourism. The Merimbula Jazz Festival, established in 1981, takes place over the June long weekend and features over 600 musicians across 97 bands performing at multiple venues throughout the town.^[91]^[92] In 2024, the event achieved record attendance, with venues reporting high turnout and a vibrant atmosphere that highlights both established and emerging jazz talent.^[93] The Eat Merimbula Festival, held during the March long weekend, celebrates the region's seafood and produce with a strong emphasis on local oysters, including shucking demonstrations, tastings, and family-friendly activities at the Fishpen foreshore on Merimbula Lake.^[94]^[95] This event evolved from earlier oyster-focused gatherings, such as the historic Merimbula Oyster Festival commemorated by a local monument, and continues to showcase tide-to-table experiences with contributions from nearby farms and chefs.^[96] Complementing these, the annual Christmas Carols by Candlelight, organized by the Pambula-Merimbula Lions Club, brings families together in December for festive performances, often enjoyed from lakeside spots, with Santa appearances and community singing at venues like Club Sapphire.^[97]^[98] Additional gatherings include whale-watching weeks from May to October, aligning with the humpback migration season and featuring guided tours and educational sessions that attract nature enthusiasts to the area's coastal vantage points.^[99] Regular markets, such as the Merimbula Farmers Market, and art shows like those at local galleries provide ongoing community hubs for crafts, produce, and live demonstrations throughout the year.^[100] In 2025, celebrations marked Merimbula's recognition as NSW's Top Tourism Town, with events highlighting regional awards and sustainable practices to engage both locals and visitors.^[101] These events collectively attract over 10,000 visitors annually to the Bega Valley Shire, contributing significantly to the local economy through increased spending on accommodations, dining, and vendor stalls.^[102] Performances, food stalls, and artisan markets generate direct economic benefits, with tourism overall injecting around $234 million into the shire in pre-pandemic years, a figure that has rebounded strongly.^[103] Organized primarily by Bega Valley Shire Council in partnership with volunteers and community groups, many events experienced pauses during the COVID-19 pandemic but saw a notable resurgence from 2023 onward, with enhanced programming and attendance.^[102]^[92] Some incorporate sport tie-ins, such as fishing derbies during the Eat Festival, linking to broader recreational pursuits.

Tourism and attractions

Natural attractions

Merimbula boasts six main beaches, each offering distinct natural features for visitors. Main Beach, stretching over five kilometres of pristine coastline, is renowned for its consistent waves ideal for surfing and safe swimming areas patrolled during summer months.^[104] Bar Beach, located on the sheltered side of Merimbula Lake, provides calm, shallow waters perfect for family swimming and picnicking, with turquoise channels and views across the bay.^[105] Short Point Beach features dramatic headlands, rock pools teeming with marine life, and opportunities for surfing or coastal walks, making it a hotspot for exploring tide pools and scenic vistas.^[106] The other beaches—Mitchies Jetty, Spencer Park, and Middle Beach—complement these with secluded sands, jetty access for fishing, and quieter spots for relaxation amid the Sapphire Coast's rugged terrain.^[107] Merimbula Lake, a large coastal lagoon spanning approximately 4.5 square kilometres,^[108] serves as a serene hub for water-based nature activities. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding allow visitors to navigate its calm estuaries, while fishing yields catches like bream and flathead from jetties or boats.^[109] From nearby headlands such as Short Point, whale watching peaks during the humpback migration season from May to November, when pods can be observed breaching offshore without venturing far from shore.^[110] Bournda National Park, adjacent to Merimbula and covering 2,655 hectares,^[111] preserves diverse coastal ecosystems with bushwalking trails like the challenging Kangarutha Walking Track, which winds through heathlands and offers glimpses of eastern grey kangaroos grazing in open clearings.^[112] The park's wetlands, including those around Bournda Lagoon and Wallagoot Lake, attract birdwatchers with over 200 recorded species, such as black swans, pelicans, and migratory waders, particularly vibrant in the estuarine habitats.^[113] Nature enthusiasts can engage in scuba diving at nearby reefs, including those around Merimbula Wharf, where rocky formations host soft corals, sponges, and endemic fish species in depths accessible from shore.^[114] Oyster tasting tours on the lake provide an immersive experience, wading into shallow waters to shuck fresh Sydney rock oysters from local farms, highlighting the estuary's role in sustainable aquaculture.^[115] In spring, seasonal wildflowers bloom across Bournda National Park's trails, adding vibrant displays of native flora like banksias and grevilleas to the coastal scenery.^[116]

Cultural and recreational attractions

Merimbula offers a range of cultural institutions that highlight the area's rich history and coastal heritage. The Old School Museum, managed by the Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society, is housed in a heritage-listed sandstone building originally constructed in 1873 as a school and teacher's residence.^[117] The museum features exhibits on local history, including maritime artifacts such as a timber oyster punt built by 19th-century fisherman Augustus Cole, alongside photographs, documents, and items from the Merimbula-Pambula region.^[118] Open to the public on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., it serves as a key draw for visitors interested in the Sapphire Coast's pioneering past.^[119] Aquariums and wildlife experiences provide immersive encounters with local marine and native species. The Merimbula Aquarium, located at the wharf, showcases over 28 tanks featuring sharks, octopuses, seahorses, and tropical fish from nearby waters, with interactive fish feedings enhancing the educational aspect.^[120] For broader wildlife interactions, Potoroo Palace, a not-for-profit sanctuary just 9 kilometers north of Merimbula, allows visitors to observe and feed Australian natives like kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and the namesake long-nosed potoroo in a bushland setting, including a walk-through aviary and reptile displays.^[121]^[122] Recreational facilities complement these cultural sites, offering leisure options amid scenic backdrops. The Merimbula Boardwalk, a 3.4-kilometer return path along the lake's edge, winds through mangroves and past oyster farms, providing accessible viewing platforms and jetties for birdwatching and sunset strolls.^[123] Club Sapphire, the local bowling club, features lawn bowls greens for barefoot games and social play, alongside dining venues that foster community gatherings.^[124] The Picture Show Man Cinema, an independent twin-screen venue, screens new releases in a cozy, air-conditioned space, appealing to film enthusiasts.^[125] Monthly markets, such as the Merimbula Rotary Market held on the third Sunday at Ford Park, showcase local produce, crafts, jewelry, and food stalls near Main Beach.^[126] Unique attractions include themed dining and artistic showcases that reflect Merimbula's coastal identity. Wheelers Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar, adjacent to its own oyster farm on Merimbula Lake, specializes in fresh, sustainably sourced oysters and seafood dishes, offering tours of the farm for an educational dining experience.^[127] Several art galleries, including Boardwalk Art Gallery and Oaklands Gallery by the Merimbula and District Arts Group, display works by local artists in mediums like painting, pottery, ceramics, and jewelry, supporting the community's creative scene.^[128]^[129]

Heritage

Heritage listings

Merimbula features several heritage-listed sites recognized under the Bega Valley Local Environmental Plan 2013, which operates within the framework of the NSW Heritage Act 1977 to protect items of architectural, historical, social, and aesthetic significance. These listings safeguard structures tied to the town's maritime, educational, and residential history, ensuring their preservation for future generations. The Merimbula Wharf and cargo sheds, with construction beginning in 1901, represent a key example of early 20th-century timber sea infrastructure that supported agricultural and mining exports, contributing to the economic development of southeastern NSW.^[14] Listed as item I055, the wharf exemplifies maritime heritage with its substantial timber construction and associated sheds, valued for historical and social criteria under the local plan.^[14] It forms part of the Wharf to Wharf Walk, a heritage trail highlighting coastal transport history along the Sapphire Coast.^[130] Courunga House and grounds, originally known as Munn's Tower House, was built around 1870 by Matthew Munn with extensions in the 1880s, reflecting the prominence of early settler families in Merimbula's milling and land-based economy.^[131] Designated as item I057, this stone cottage with its rare Victorian Gothic timber tower and crenellated pavilions meets aesthetic and historical significance criteria, protected since a 1982 conservation order.^[131] The Old School Museum, erected in 1875 as a school and teacher's residence, holds social and educational value as one of the few pre-1880 public instruction buildings in the area, constructed from hand-hewn sandstone.^[132] Listed as item I054 and managed by the Merimbula Imlay Historical Society, it underwent major restorations in 1973–1975 and 1995–1999 to maintain its role in community heritage education.^[132] Mitchie's Jetty and shed, originally a 1920s fishermen's net shed at Fishpen on Merimbula Lake, is recognized locally for its social significance in the town's fishing industry heritage and contributes to the Sapphire Coast's maritime narrative alongside other waterfront structures. Preservation efforts are supported by Bega Valley Shire Council through heritage advice, funding for maintenance, and integration into regional trails that promote public awareness and access.^[133]

Historical sites

Merimbula features several heritage-listed structures that reflect its development as a coastal settlement in the 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily tied to education, maritime trade, and community life.^[14]^[117] The Merimbula Old School Museum, housed in a sandstone building constructed in 1875, originally served as a school with an attached master's residence.^[117] This rare surviving example of a combined schoolhouse and residence in public ownership in New South Wales highlights early colonial educational infrastructure, built from locally quarried stone.^[134] Restored and opened as a museum in 1973 by the Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society, it displays artifacts, photographs, and exhibits on local Yuin Indigenous history, early settlement, and industries such as timber and fishing.^[40] The site holds National Trust of Australia listing for its architectural and historical value.^[117] Merimbula Wharf, a timber structure with construction beginning in 1901 to accommodate deep-water shipping outside the lake entrance, was a key port for coastal trade from the late 19th to mid-20th century.^[135] It facilitated the export of local produce like timber, dairy, and oysters, supporting the region's economic growth during the steamship era.^[13] Archaeological investigations have confirmed its significance as one of the few remaining timber sea wharves on the New South Wales south coast, with associated cargo sheds contributing to its maritime heritage.^[14] Today, it serves as a recreational fishing spot while preserving evidence of early 20th-century infrastructure.^[136] Courunga, also known as Munns Tower House, is a heritage-listed residence built around 1870 by settler Matthew Munn, with extensions added by his son Armstrong in about 1880.^[131] Located on Monaro Street, the tower house exemplifies Victorian-era architecture and the social prominence of early European families in Merimbula, who were involved in local commerce and land development.^[131] Its distinctive tower provided panoramic views of the bay, underscoring the site's role as a landmark in the town's formative years.^[131] Twyford Hall, constructed in 1931 on land donated by local resident J.W. Twyford, stands as a testament to community resilience during the Great Depression.^[137] Built by local volunteers in just ten months, it has functioned as a multifunctional venue for social events, arts performances, markets, and wartime commemorations, including farewells for soldiers and aid to shipwreck survivors.^[137] A memorial wing was added in 1962, enhancing its role in local heritage. Recent renovations, supported by a NSW government grant, ensure its continued cultural importance.^[137]

References

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Merimbula, Sapphire Coast | Sydney.com - Visit NSW
Merimbula is an enchanting seaside town on the sparkling Sapphire Coast that offers rugged ocean beaches and tranquil coastal lakes.
[2]
About the Bega Valley Shire
The Bega Valley Shire is located at the south-eastern corner of New South Wales, half way between Australia's two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne.
[3]
History of the Shire - Bega Valley Shire Council
The Traditional owners of the Shire are the communities of the Yuin-Monaro Nations. From ancient times they have been the inhabitants and custodians of the land ...
[4]
Merimbula - Culture and History - The Sydney Morning Herald
Nov 24, 2008 · Once inhabited by the Dyirringany Aborigines the area was first explored by Europeans when Bass and Flinders travelled up the Pambula River ...
[5]
2021 Merimbula, Census All persons QuickStats
Merimbula had 3,821 people (46.7% male, 53.3% female), median age 54, 973 families, 2,551 dwellings, median weekly income $1,146, and median weekly rent $310.
[6]
MERIMBULA - South Coast History Society Inc.
Merimbula was originally a private village that was established in 1855 by the Twofold Bay Pastoral Association. It built a wharf adjacent to the town in ...
[7]
Guide to Merimbula, NSW | Wiki Australia
Merimbula Postcode: 2548; State: New South Wales; Region: South Coast; Latitude: -36.88776; Longitude: 149.91055; Elevation: 9m; Population: 3544; Median Income ...
[8]
About Merimbula New South Wales
Merimbula is 470km south of Sydney, near Merimbula Lake and the ocean, with a population of around 4,000. It hosts the Merimbula Jazz Festival.Missing: geography | Show results with:geography
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Merimbula & Sapphire Coast - Town guides, things to do & more
Discover the best of Merimbula & the Sapphire Coast. Find stunning beaches, spectacular wilderness, delicious oysters and charming towns in the jewel of the ...Sydney.com · Beaches & ocean pools on the... · Eden
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Merimbula Lake | Estuaries - Environment and Heritage
Sep 21, 2023 · Merimbula Lake is an intermittently closed lake with good water quality, extensive seagrass beds, and a large oyster industry. It has a 5.6 km² ...Missing: shallow | Show results with:shallow
[11]
Short Point Beach - Visit NSW
Short Point Beach (Tura Beach) has some of the best coastal views on the Sapphire Coast and is popular with walkers, surfers, divers and those who just love ...
[12]
[PDF] Merimbula Lake entrance sediment study - UNSW Sydney
Mar 2, 2023 · This study investigates sediment dynamics and coastal processes at Merimbula Lake entrance to assist with long-term management of the entrance ...<|separator|>
[13]
Bournda National Park
Bournda National Park is the Far South Coast's best-kept secret. Located near Tathra, enjoy coastal walks, birdwatching and kayaking in Bournda Lagoon.Visitor info · Map · Learn more · Current alerts
[14]
Sydney Rock Oysters from Merimbula Lake, Sapphire Coast
With minimal freshwater runoff, Merimbula Lake oysters contain high levels of mineralisation and saltiness, balanced by medium to high sweetness.
[15]
Devonian formations, vertebrate faunas and age control on the far ...
Fossil fish remains are known from a number of localities along the coastal exposures between Merimbula Point and Green Cape, but they remain undescribed, and ...
[16]
[PDF] Devonian formations, vertebrate faunas and age control on the far ...
Oct 1, 2007 · Isolated centra from the vertebral column of a sarcopterygian have been found at two localities: Merimbula Point and south of Boyds Tower.
[17]
[PDF] Places of Geoheritage Significance in New South Wales ...
Jun 25, 1998 · Sandstones, mudstones and conglomerates of the Late Devonian Merimbula Group unconformably overlie older rocks and occur as scattered remnants, ...
[18]
Average Temperature by month, Merimbula water ... - Climate Data
Merimbula Climate (Australia) ... The Köppen-Geiger climate classification identifies this particular weather pattern as belonging to the category of Cfb.
[19]
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/newsroom/nsw-top-tourism-towns-for-2025-announced
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Merimbula Bar Wind Stats - Surf-forecast.com
... dominant wind at Merimbula Bar blows from the SE. If the rose plot shows a nearly round shape, it means there is no strong bias in wind direction at Merimbula ...Missing: predominant | Show results with:predominant
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Merimbula Lake and Back Lake Floodplain Risk Management Study ...
This study assesses options to manage flood risk in Merimbula and Back Lake areas, caused by ocean storms, extreme tides, and intense rainfall, and identifies ...Missing: elevation | Show results with:elevation
[22]
None
Below is a merged summary of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in Merimbula and Nearby Areas (Bega Valley), combining all the information from the provided segments into a comprehensive response. To retain as much detail as possible, I will use a structured format with tables where appropriate, followed by a narrative summary. The response includes all mentions of Aboriginal occupation, Yuin people, middens, tools, oral histories, and useful URLs, ensuring no information is lost.
[23]
[PDF] Aboriginal-Heritage-Study-Stage-1.pdf - Eurobodalla Shire Council
The next meeting recorded by Europeans with Aboriginal people ... 1826, before the first European settlement in the area, recorded that the people he saw.
[24]
Landing of Matthew Flinders & George Bass - Monument Australia
The memorial commemorates the landing of explorer George Bass and Matthew Flinders in 1798 who commenced a four day survey of Twofold Bay.
[25]
About Merimbula - merimbula old school museum
During the 1800s white settlers moved into the area, gradually displacing the indigenous inhabitants. The first to arrive were pastoralists who used the land to ...
[26]
historical tathra wharf & Merimbula wharf
It commenced in 1909 and continued until it ran aground on Beecroft Head near Jervis Bay in 1928. The loss of the Merimbula spelled the end of the Illawarra ...
[27]
Merimbula Wharf and cargo sheds | Heritage NSW
Historical notes: Construction of the wharf began in 1901 at an auspicious time in Australia's history, the year of Federation when the Commonwealth of ...
[28]
Merimbula's forgotten gateway: The old steamer wharf | The Bulletin ...
... development in the 19th and 20th centuries. Construction of the wharf began in 1901 at an auspicious time in Australia's history, the year of Federation ...
[29]
Cover photo of Merimbula Airport taken in 1959 - Facebook
Nov 10, 2019 · Our fabulous new cover photo was taken by Arthur Kaine at the opening of Merimbula Airport on 30 May, 1959. Interestingly the road in front ...
[30]
$$5 million upgrade to Merimbula Airport - Destination NSW
Aug 20, 2025 · The project will extend the Merimbula Airport runway at both ends, increasing take-off length from 1602 metres to 1800 metres. Minister for ...
[31]
Merimbula Boardwalk and Foreshore Path upgrade
The upgrade of the Merimbula boardwalk and foreshore path with infrastructure to provide nature-based experiences, new viewing platforms, improved accessibility
[32]
NSW Top Tourism Towns for 2025 announced - Destination NSW
May 26, 2025 · Merimbula earned Gold in the Small Tourism Town category after placing Silver in 2024, demonstrating its continued rise as a premier South ...
[33]
About the profile areas | Bega Valley Shire | Community profile
The 2024 Estimated Resident Population for Merimbula - Millingandi and District is 4,919, with a population density of 100.9 persons per square km.
[34]
[PDF] Population Health Profile - COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN
Table 2: Estimated resident population, 2024 [7] ... Merimbula - Tura Beach. 11,616. 55.1. 34.9%. 13.6%. 2.6%. Moruya - Tuross Head. 8,684. 56.5. 34.8%. 12.8%. 6.2 ...
[35]
Merimbula - Tura Beach Statistical Area - sa2 - AreaSearch
Merimbula-Tura Beach's population is approximately 11,632 as of August 2025. Between the 2021 Census and June 2024, it increased by about 119 people (1%), from ...
[36]
Merimbula - Millingandi & District - Population forecast
The 2025 population forecast for Merimbula - Millingandi & District is 5,129, and is forecast to grow to 5,704 by 2046.Missing: estimate | Show results with:estimate
[37]
Drivers of population change | Bega Valley Shire
... retirees concentrating in coastal towns, particularly Merimbula, Tathra and Bermagui. Like most parts of regional Australia, Bega Valley records a net loss ...
[38]
Merimbula & District Arts Group, Inc - Bega Valley Shire Council
The objects of our association are to promote and encourage fine arts and culture within Merimbula and the surrounding area, to organise and conduct exhibitions ...
[39]
Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme Far South Coast NSW
Welcome to the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme for the Far South Coast of NSW. We cover Bega, Eden, Merimbula, Pambula, Tura Beach and many other areas ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[40]
Aboriginal Cultural Experiences, Sapphire Coast NSW
The Sapphire Coast lies within the Country of the Yuin-Monaro Nations, who have inhabited the region for tens of thousands of years.<|control11|><|separator|>
[41]
Meeting 10 April 2025 -
We, as the Social Justice Advocates of the Sapphire Coast, work hard to make amends, to empathise with, and support our local First Nations peoples as they ...
[42]
National Reconciliation Week News, 2021 - 27 May – 3 June: The ...
May 26, 2021 · Our local school staff will be learning more about Aboriginal history, lore, art, music, dance and more! This will be followed by an amazing ...
[43]
[PDF] Understanding what attracts new residents to smaller cities
This study examines key drivers of migration flows and settlement patterns across Australia, and identifies key barriers to and opportunities for greater.
[44]
[PDF] REVIEW REPORT BEGA VALLEY SHIRE COUNCIL - OLG.nsw.gov.au
Bega Valley Shire Council was formed in 1981 following the amalgamation of the then Bega Municipality and former Imlay and Mumbulla Shires. For the purpose ...
[45]
Mayor and Deputy Mayor elected - Bega Valley Shire Council
Councillor Russell Fitzpatrick was re-elected as Mayor and Councillor Liz Seckold re-elected as Deputy Mayor, until September 2023.
[46]
Council Election Results: Seasoned Veterans and Fresh Faces
Oct 1, 2024 · Russell Fitzpatrick was re-elected Mayor in the first public mayoral vote with the result now being declared. Mayor Fitzpatrick is joined by ...
[47]
Committees of Council - Bega Valley Shire Council
Committees provide an opportunity for local residents and relevant organisations to contribute to the day-to-day running of Council.Missing: Merimbula | Show results with:Merimbula
[48]
Waste and Recycling - Bega Valley Shire Council
Vegetation Management · Waste and Recycling · Expired Marine Flare Disposal · My Bins · Waste App · Waste and Recycling Centres · Free waste vouchers ...
[49]
Playground Management Plan - Bega Valley Shire Council
A Playground Management Plan to outline a strategic and sustainable approach to future playground provision, detailing a playground hierarchy, service ...
[50]
Waste Prevention and Innovation Grants - Bega Valley Shire Council
The Bega Valley Shire Council has allocated $30,750 per annum for the Community Waste Assistance Grants program to support waste related projects that support ...Missing: parks | Show results with:parks
[51]
Merimbula boardwalk gets $8 million green light from NSW ...
Jan 24, 2023 · The $8 million grant will fully replace the existing boardwalk, upgrade foreshore sections and add a range of new features to keep it as one of the top tourist ...
[52]
Bega Valley Local Environmental Plan 2013
Bega Valley Local Environmental Plan 2013 rezones the majority of the land in the Shire and sets out new permitted and prohibited uses in the zones.Missing: Merimbula lake
[53]
Bega Valley Local Environmental Plan 2013 - NSW Legislation
The Bega Valley Local Environmental Plan 2013 is a standard local plan aiming to protect resources, promote arts, and ensure sustainable development.
[54]
Merimbula Public School
Enrol at Merimbula Public School. We are a Kindergarten to Year 6 Comprehensive Coed Primary School school in MERIMBULA.Travel to school · Contact us · Enrol · Parent portal
[55]
Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society - MERIMBULA OLD SCHOOL ...
It acquires, conserves, researches and exhibits the history of Merimbula, Pambula and adjacent areas for the purpose of education and enjoyment of both local ...
[56]
[PDF] 2024 Annual Report - Merimbula Public School - NSW Government
Apr 3, 2025 · Enrolments include mainstream students, High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) students, Aboriginal students (9%), students who have English ...
[57]
Education - Our Merimbula
Bega High School; Eden Marine High. Primary Schools. Bega Primary School; Bega West Public School; Bemboka Primary School; Bermagui Primary School; Candelo ...
[58]
Merimbula to Bega Schools via Tura Beach | transportnsw.info
Routes, stops and timetables. Merimbula to Bega Schools via Tura Beach. S321. Merimbula to Bega Schools via Tura Beach. bus-school. School buses. Opal card not ...
[59]
UOW Bega Valley - University of Wollongong
For decades, UOW Bega Valley has brought world-class university education to the local community. The campus offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, ...Study at UOW Bega ValleyContact us
[60]
Bega - TAFE NSW
TAFE NSW Bega is located amid the lush pastures, forests and rolling hills of the Sapphire Coast's rural heartland, in southern NSW.
[61]
Tourism and Events Courses | TAFE NSW
Tourism and Events. 8 courses. Discover the local and global career opportunities on offer when you step into the exciting world of tourism and events.Certificate III in Tourism · Diploma of Travel and Tourism... · Certificate III in Travel
[62]
Older people and seniors - Bega Valley Shire Council
Over 33% of the Bega Valley population is aged over 55, compared to 24.6% for NSW. Bega Valley is ranked 29th amongst the 152 local government areas in NSW.Missing: impact | Show results with:impact
[63]
Welcome - Bega Valley Shire Library
Search the catalogue for the special book you would like to read and see what new items have been added to the library. ... library@begavalley.nsw.gov.auJoin the Library · Library App · Library Link · Tura Marrang Library Talent Show
[64]
Flights from Merimbula (MIM) to Sydney (SYD) | Qantas AU
Looking for flight deals from Merimbula to Sydney? Find available flights, exclusive sales and book your all-inclusive airline ticket!
[65]
Flights from Merimbula (MIM) to Sydney (SYD) | Rex Airlines
Starting from A$189.00Explore REX flights from Merimbula to Sydney and find great deals on airfares for your next trip. Enjoy convenient schedules, reliable service, ...
[66]
Flights from Merimbula (MIM) to Melbourne (MEL) - Rex Airlines
Starting from A$199.00Explore REX flights from Merimbula to Melbourne and find great deals on airfares for your next trip. Enjoy convenient schedules, reliable service, ...
[67]
Direct (non-stop) flights from Merimbula to Sydney - schedules
This route is operated by Rex Airlines and Qantas and the flight time is 1 hour and 15 minutes. The distance is 217 miles.Missing: QantasLink | Show results with:QantasLink
[68]
GETTING HERE - Visit Merimbula
Merimbula is located in the heart of the Sapphire Coast, 454 km south of Sydney via the Princes Highway A1 and 588kms North East of Melbourne via the Princes ...Missing: parking | Show results with:parking
[69]
Merimbula Coach Stop | transportnsw.info
Stop information including available facilities and accessibility of your train station, bus stop, ferry wharf, light rail or coach stop, where available.Missing: Princes Highway A1 road
[70]
[PDF] Sapphire Coast Link - V/Line
Feb 13, 2022 · McWilliam Drive/Princes Highway. Coach Interchange / Waygara –. Princes Highway and Waygara Road /. Wonboyn – Wonboyn Turn Off. Coach stop.Missing: A1 | Show results with:A1
[71]
[PDF] PRINCES HIGHWAY CORRIDOR STRATEGY | Transport for NSW
The corridor serves as the main transport corridor providing freight and passenger movements to and from the Illawarra and South Coast regions, supports south ...<|separator|>
[72]
Day 1648: Merimbula to Tathra: Sewer lines, pigs and whistles
Feb 7, 2019 · The railway network did not reach Nimmitabel on the Monaro until 1912, and was never extended to the far south coast. The coastal steamers ...Missing: cycling foreshore freight
[73]
Merimbula to Pambula Cycle and Walkway - Visit NSW
Scenic 10km trail linking Merimbula to Pambula Beach. Safe, sealed path ideal for families and cyclists. Crosses iconic Merimbula Bridge with tranquil coastal ...Missing: no Eden freight
[74]
[PDF] Southern Regional Transport Plan
Finished products are then transported out of the region via rail and road, including to the Port of Eden. The Port of Eden services the NSW south east.
[75]
[PDF] Merimbula Airport Master Plan 2043 - Bega Valley Shire Council
In total, Merimbula Airport recorded approximately 4,160 landings, or 8,320 total aircraft movements, in 2023. Figure 2 provides a summary breakdown of ...
[76]
Merimbula Airport Runway Extension - Symal
Symal has delivered a complete upgrade to the existing aspects of the Merimbula Airport runway, such as Foam Bitumen Stabilisation for improved strength and ...
[77]
Our Electric Vehicle Itinerary - South Coast Experiences
Jun 11, 2024 · Charging Station: Recharge your EV at Merimbula Plaza (Market St, Merimbula). ... The South Coast of NSW is well-equipped with EV charging ...
[78]
Charge your EV at NRMA Parks and Resorts | Advice and How-to
Mar 7, 2024 · NRMA Parks and Resorts launches electric vehicle AC destination chargers at holiday parks throughout NSW, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.<|control11|><|separator|>
[79]
Merimbula Medical Centre
Address: 77 Merimbula Drive, Merimbula Phone: 02 64951369 Fax: 02 64951075 admin@merimbulamedicalcentre.com.au
[80]
Main Street Medical Centre Merimbula - Family Doctor
Phone: 02 6495 2555 ; Fax: 02 6495 2021 ; Email: reception@merimbuladoctors.com.au ; Address: Suite 6, 93 Main Street Merimbula NSW 2548 ...
[81]
Sapphire Clinic - Merimbula
We are now a premier multi purpose medical centre with GP, Allied Health and Specialist Services in the area.
[82]
Pambula District Hospital - WayAhead Directory
Jan 21, 2025 · Pambula Health Service is a 12 bed subacute facility. Provides subacute care, pallative care, allied health service.
[83]
Bega - South East Regional Hospital | NSW Government
Telehealth: Virtual care (telehealth) is available at this service. Please call to book an appointment. ; Wheelchair access: Yes ; Location. Located at the far ...
[84]
Residential Care Home in Merimbula | Albert Moore Gardens
Albert Moore Gardens is a living community for 68 seniors. With stylish and spacious private rooms, and vibrant communal spaces, there is something here for ...
[85]
Sapphire Coast Aged Care
Nov 11, 2024 · Sapphire Coast Community Aged Care is a community-owned and purpose-led organisation that has proudly served our community since 1979.Imlay House · Home care · Residential care · Job vacancies
[86]
[PDF] List of all Stations - NSW Ambulance
Merimbula Ambulance Station. 1 Wyeebo Street (cnr Cliff Street). Merimbula. Regional. Southern. Southern NSW. Merriwa Ambulance Station (MPS). 1A MacKenzie ...
[87]
COVID-19 - bega valley medical practice
Telehealth consults are available so we can continue to provide healthcare while adhering to social distancing. Patients can choose to book a Video Call or a ...
[88]
COVID 19 INFORMATION | merimbulamc - Merimbula Medical Centre
COVID-19 vaccination is now available at the Merimbula Medical Centre. You will need to book an appointment by telephoning the surgery on 64951369.Missing: 2023 | Show results with:2023
[89]
Health and wellbeing support - Bega Valley Shire Council
Health and wellbeing support · Bega Valley Bushfire Recovery Support Services · Health services contacts · Be Kind · Recovering from a Natural Disaster.
[90]
Bega Community Health Centre - Community Services Directory
Provides a wide range of services which aim to improve the health & wellbeing of clients & their families that include Aboriginal health; Aged Care Assessment; ...
[91]
THE 10 BEST Outdoor Activities in Merimbula (Updated 2025)
Outdoor Activities in Merimbula · 1. Short Point Recreation Reserve · 2. Main Beach · 3. Bar Beach · 4. Pambula Merimbula Golf Club · 5. Top Lake Boat Hire and ...
[92]
Merimbula: Berrambool Sporting Complex - Bega Valley Shire Council
Berrambool Sporting Complex is located 500 m from the centre of Merimbula and hosts cricket, Australian rules and soccer.
[93]
Merimbula Main Beach | NSW Government
Merimbula Main Beach has 5km of ocean for surfing, swimming, and fishing. It's family-friendly, patrolled in summer, and has an off-leash area. Dolphins and ...
[94]
Pambula Merimbula Golf Club - Visit NSW
The only 27-hole golf course on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales winds its way through beautiful native bushland abutting the pristine Merimbula Lake.
[95]
Merimbula Pambula Bulldogs - Group 16 Rugby League
Merimbula-Pambula Rugby League Football Club is an Australian rugby league football club based in New South Wales formed in 1924.
[96]
Sapphire Aquatic Centre - Bega Valley Shire Council
Indoor aquatic and leisure centre, including heated 25m lap pool, warm water program pool and splash pool with water features, gym and multi-use squash courts.
[97]
Merimbula: Ford Park Multi Use Courts - Bega Valley Shire Council
Located at Ford park Merimbula the courts have basketball and netball competitions. Location 59 Ocean Drive Merimbula NSW 2548
[98]
Sport & Leisure on the Sapphire Coast, New South Wales
The Sapphire Coast is home to some of the most picturesque golf courses, race tracks and bowling clubs in the country.
[99]
[PDF] 2022 School Athletics Carnival - Years 3 - Merimbula Public School
The annual School Athletics Carnival for track and field events (Years 3 – 6 and competitive 8+ years) will be held on Wednesday,. June 15 2022 at Berrambool ...
[100]
Merimbula Big Game & Lakes Angling Club Inc. | Fish Merimbula
experienced, beginners, ...Tournament's & Event's · Fishing Report · Merimbula · Game Fishing
[101]
Merimbula – a sapphire waiting to be found by retirees
Aug 27, 2025 · Nestled on the pristine Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, Merimbula stands as one of Australia's most compelling choices for those seeking a ...Missing: migration | Show results with:migration
[102]
New executive committee formed for Merimbula Basketball ...
Sep 1, 2025 · ... Participation from Parents ... we are always open to ideas, fundraisers, just help with all sports ... ... families for being a part of our league ...
[103]
Home | Pambula Surf Life Saving Club
Pambula Surf Life Saving Club. Their generosity enables us to keep our beach and community safe, providing vital resources for patrols, training and equipment ...Nippers · Contact · Nippers Season Program · Calendar
[104]
Merimbula Exercise Stations Fitness Trail - Bega Valley Shire Council
The trail starts at Spencer Park, goes along Beach, Market, and Fishpen streets, and ends at Ford Park. It includes equipment like stretch bars, sit-ups, and ...
[105]
A brief history of the Merimbula Jazz Festival in New South Wales
Read the fascinating storey of the history of the Merimbula Jazz Festival - and annual event highlighting jazz musicians and bands from all over Australia.
[106]
Merimbula Jazz Festival 2024: Record Crowds and Talented Acts
Jun 13, 2024 · 2024 Merimbula Jazz Festival celebrated young musicians, record attendance, and vibrant community events. Read about the exciting moments ...
[107]
Merimbula Jazz Festival triumphs with record crowds | Narooma News
The festival featured more than 600 musicians performing across eight venues over four days, and once again highlighted Merimbula's place on Australia's ...
[108]
Merimbula Eat Festival
Welcome · Sunday March 8th 2026 - THE BIG ONE. EAT MERIMBULA · On the foreshore at Fishpen · 10.00am to 2.00pm.Menu for 2025 · Oyster Shucking School · EAT Oyster &Spoon Race · Stallholders
[109]
Eat Festival - Merimbula Events - Visit NSW
The Eat Merimbula Festival is the premium food festival of the Sapphire Coast NSW. Each year the region comes together on the foreshore of Merimbula Lake.
[110]
Eat Festival - Merimbula - Sapphire Coast
In 2026, Sunday's popular large gathering on Merimbula's Fishpen will return, along with a host of satellite events featuring their towns and villages, too.
[111]
2023 Carols Event at Club Sapphire Merimbula | Bega District News
Dec 11, 2023 · Join the Far South Coast community at Club Sapphire Merimbula for a heartwarming evening of carols, talented performances, ...Missing: lake | Show results with:lake
[112]
Lions Carols - Pambula-Merimbula Lions Club
Pambula-Merimbula Lions Club. Toggle Navigation. Facebook · Home · Community · Insulin Pump Donation · Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance · Wharf To Wharf ...
[113]
Events on the Sapphire Coast, New South Wales
Explore upcoming events and festivals on the Sapphire Coast, NSW. Our events calendar features events in Merimbula, Bermagui, Eden, Bega, Tathra and more.<|separator|>
[114]
What's On | Merimbula | Sapphire Coast | Australia
Browse our Sapphire Coast events calendar including markets, fitness events, festivals, annual events, art exhibitions and more.
[115]
Kiama, Merimbula and Huskisson Crowned NSW's Top Tourism ...
Kiama, Merimbula and Huskisson have been named NSW's Top, Small and Tiny Tourism Towns for 2025 respectively – each praised for their unique charm.
[116]
[PDF] Bega Valley Shire Council Events Strategy 2024 - 2028
Strategic Objective 4: Grow current events and attract new events that grow the Southern NSW visitor economy and are aligned to our community values. Action ...
[117]
[PDF] Trig Report - Bega Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Recent events include deep sea fishing, trivia nights, coffee mornings, family fun days and providing activities at local community festivals. While COVID ...
[118]
Merimbula Main Beach - Visit NSW
Merimbula's Main Beach has five kilometres of the pristine blue ocean where you can surf, swim, fish or stroll. It's perfect for families.
[119]
Merimbula Bar Beach - Visit NSW
A small, beautiful beach on Merimbula Lake, famous for its stunning turquoise channel and breathtaking views across Merimbula Bay and the rolling hinterland.
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Short Point | Merimbula | Sapphire Coast | NSW Australia
Short Point Beach is located about 2km from the town centre, on the headland. A beaut surfing and swimming beach, lifesavers patrol this beach during holidays.
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Merimbula Facts for Kids
In 2021, about 3,821 people lived here. If you look at the area within 10 kilometers of Merimbula, over 18,000 people call it home! This includes the nearby ...Missing: geography | Show results with:geography
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Merimbula Lake - Visit NSW
A paradise for water enthusiasts, Merimbula Lake provides boundless opportunities for kayaking, SUPing, fishing, boating and swimming.
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Whale watching on the Sapphire Coast, New South Wales
Go whale watching on the NSW Sapphire Coast from August - November. Spring whale watching tours in Eden, Merimbula and Bermagui, walks, events and more.
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Bournda National Park | Learn more
Kangarutha walking track Kangarutha walking track, in Bournda National Park, is a hiking route with scenic coastal views and birdwatching, picnicking and ...
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Bournda Lagoon | Learn more - NSW National Parks
With around 200 species of birds in the area, Bournda is a birdwatcher's paradise. The estuarine wetlands at the eastern end of Wallagoot Lake provide ...<|control11|><|separator|>
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Merimbula Wharf - Michael McFadyen's Scuba Diving Web Site
Once in the water, drop to the bottom and head west. You will go over a wall to six and then 7.5 metres. The reef runs roughly north-south. Turn right to the ...
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Merimbula Oyster Tours - Visit NSW
Come along for a unique in-water oyster tasting experience set on the beautiful Merimbula Lake. Your tour begins with a short boat ride across the estuary.
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Bournda National Park | Visitor info
Get driving directions · Take the Tathra Road (Snowy Mountains Highway) toward Tathra · Turn right onto Sapphire Coast Drive and continue south towards Merimbula.
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Old School Museum - Merimbula Attractions - Visit NSW
Housed in a beautiful heritage building dating from 1873, Merimbula Old School Museum is one of few buildings of its type remaining in Australia today.
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Maritime - MERIMBULA OLD SCHOOL MUSEUM
The collection includes a flat bottomed timber oyster punt that was built by local oyster farmer and fisherman Augustus (“Gus”) Cole for his own use.Missing: artifacts | Show results with:artifacts
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Old School Museum Merimbula - Bega Valley Shire Council
Old School Museum Merimbula. 1:30 p.m.-4 p.m. Sun-Tues ... The Museum is run by the Management Committee of the Merimbula-Imlay Historical Society Inc.
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Merimbula Aquarium - Visit NSW
From sharks to shrimp, octopus and tropical fish - it's all on display in this living theatre of the deep. Merimbula Aquarium features 28 tanks and a fantastic ...
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Potoroo Palace - Native Wildlife Park - Visit NSW
Visit the park to see koalas, wombats, echidnas and long nosed potoroos. Wander among the kangaroos, touch a snake, stroll through the walk-through aviary with ...
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Animal Sanctuary and Education Centre | Potoroo Palace | Merimbula
Potoroo Palace Australian Wildlife Park is an icon animal sancuary of the beautiful Far South Coast of NSW, close to Merimbula, Tathra, Eden and Pambula.
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Merimbula Boardwalk - Visit NSW
It's approximately 3.4 kilometres return and will take around 1.5 leisurely hours to complete. It's famous for sunset views, and dotted with seats and jetties ...
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Discover Community Spirit at Club Sapphire Merimbula
Experience the timeless joy of lawn bowls, where friendships bloom and bonds are woven on the green. Our iconic bowlo has been a hub for connection and ...RestaurantsBowlsFeatured EventsWeekly EventsMembership
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Showtimes, Tickets and More
Check showtimes and buy tickets at your local cinema.
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Markets on the Sapphire Coast, New South Wales
In sunny Ford Park, next to Merimbula's Main Beach, come and enjoy Merimbula's monthly market where a wealth of treasures, jewellery, fashion, produce, food, ...
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Wheelers Seafood Restaurant | Oyster Farm | Pambula NSW Australia
Wheelers Restaurant specialises in mouth-watering cuisine showcasing fresh, local seafood and offers a wide range of beer, wine and mouthwatering cocktails.View Menus · Take Away, Café & Oyster Sales · Reservations · Oyster Farm Tours
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BOARDWALKART GALLERY - Updated November 2025 - Yelp
More info about Boardwalkart Gallery. Map. 7 Bodalla Pl. Merimbula New South Wales 2548. Australia. Directions. (02) 6495 4608. Call Now · Visit Website.
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Oaklands Gallery - MERIMBULA & DISTRICT ARTS GROUP
Art work can be viewed daily at the gallery which include painting in all mediums and styles and genres, pottery, ceramics, homewares, jewellery and woodwork.
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Wharf to Wharf Walk | Sapphire Coast, NSW
The walk starts and finishes at two of Australia's most historic wharfs, Merimbula and Tathra. The experience can be undertaken as two or three single day hikes ...Tathra & Merimbula Wharf · Plan Your Walk · Nature & Wildlife · Culture & History
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Courunga House and grounds | Heritage NSW
Courunga formerly Munns Tower House was constructed about 1870 by Matthew Munna. It is a large distinctive stone cottage with an extraordinary addition ...
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Old School Museum - Office of Environment and Heritage - NSW
The building is highly valued by the community for its associations with the history of education in Merimbula. It is a well designed building, held in esteem ...
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Heritage advice - Bega Valley Shire Council - NSW Government
Information on management and developing heritage buildings with the Bega Valley Shire.Missing: restorations | Show results with:restorations
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Merimbula Old School Museum - MGNSW
Merimbula Old School Museum is located in the heart of Merimbula at 85 Main Street. The Heritage listed building is constructed from locally quarried stone.
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Merimbula Wharf - Visit NSW
From the late 1800s - mid 1900s, the site was a prominent port in the coastal shipping trade along the east coast. The first structure, a platform with ...
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Heritage & History on the Sapphire Coast, NSW
Boyds Tower walking track. In the mid-1800s, Scottish entrepreneur Benjamin Boyd sailed into Australian waters aboard a luxury yacht – and promptly started ...
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Courunga - Office of Environment and Heritage - NSW
The property known as Courunga, formerly Munns Tower House was constructed about 1870 by Matthew Munn and extensions added by his son Armstrong about 1880.
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History - THE TWYFORD, Merimbula NSW Australia
Twyford Hall in Merimbula NSW was built in 1931, long serving as a space for community events, celebrations, markets, the arts and so much more.