By Terry Deefholts
Article below reproduced from Clarence Valley newspaper The Daily Examiner, 14 November 2012
WOOLI – it’s just too beautiful for words really.
Over the years, the idyllic seaside hamlet has seen its ups and downs, but there’s one thing that has not disappeared – it’s raw natural charm.
With the turquoise estuary of the Wooli River on the western side of “old Wooli” and the mighty Pacific Ocean about 100 metres to the east along some parts of the peninsula, the hamlet is like a magnet for anglers, whether they be first-timers off the bank or seasoned veterans who take on the challenging bar.
Families enjoy the tidal flats in the estuary and the highly energetic have been known to swim or boat across the river and take on the spectacular sand dunes about 300m from the river mouth.
Personally, I can thank Wooli oysters converting me to the unrivalled taste of fresh oysters.
But, just like a junkie chasing that first hit (freshly shucked about two years ago now), I haven’t been able to find better.
When the Wooli Hotel decides to lash out on a band occasionally, the night is spectacular – watch out for New Year’s (we can only hope).
On any given night of the week though, the pizzas at the pub are spectacular, and the beer is always cold.
And let’s not forget Harry’s Chinese in the Wooli Bowling Club – widely reported as one of the best Chinese eateries in the Valley.
Maybe the town’s culinary fortitude comes from its grassroots – the Wooli Public School’s award-winning vegetable garden is renowned nationally.
With new paths and a skate park provided by Clarence Valley Council, the village is shaping up for the future.
And if that wasn’t enough, diving – whether it be snorkelling or scuba – is said to be world-class at the Solitary Islands Marine Park which is accessible through the Wooli bar.
One more thing – the Australian Goanna Pulling Championships is held every year (this year on September 30) at Wooli and now, 27 years after the first event, attracts visitors from around the world.
- Why not book a getaway now? Accommodation in Wooli