Events and Activities Guide

Known for its natural beauty, pumping surf breaks and secret spots to cast a line, the Macleay Valley Coast isn’t just the perfect place to relax in nature, it also offers a bustling calendar filled with community run events for every season. Check out our events and activities guide to find something to entertain the whole family:

Winter

Sculpture in the Gaol

3 – 30 August

Undoubtably the most iconic event on the Macleay Valley Coast, Sculpture In The Gaol draws locals and visitors alike to the oceanside town of South West Rocks for a celebration of art, culture and history at the historic Trial Bay Gaol. The annual event showcases a spectacular outdoor gallery with displays from local and regional artists and schools as well as offering delicious food stalls, entertainment, historical information and market stalls. Bringing the community together, the event also includes an Escapee Trail where sculptures, artwork pieces and photographs at hosted at local businesses around town, including our very own sculpture at Horseshoe Bay Holiday Park.

Image source – facebook.com/sculptureinthegaol

Head to Head Walk Run

25 August

If you’re looking for a challenge while on holidays why not get active and join in the Head to Head Walk Run. Held every August the event offers 5km, 10km, 15km or 20km courses set to the backdrop of the stunning Crescent Head beachfront. Even if you aren’t competing on the day the event is fantastic for spectators with runners dressing in rainbow attire and a portion of proceeds donated to a local charity. And the best part? You’ll hardly have to leave your accommodation with the event set moments from Crescent Head Holiday Park.

Spring

2019 National Old Mal Titles

6 – 7 September

Well known for its legendary surf breaks if you’re visiting Crescent Head during Spring you won’t want to miss checking out the National Old Mal Titles. Salty surfers hit the waves to compete on one of Australia’s longest point breaks before an evening filled with live entertainment at the Crescent Head Country Club. We recommend grabbing a sweet treat and coffee from the bakery before setting up on the headland for a prime viewing spot of all the action.

Crescent Head Markets

Every 2nd Sunday

Is there anything better than strolling around a Sunday market, coffee in hand while soaking up some sunshine? We don’t think so, and that’s exactly how it’s done at the Crescent Head Markets. Held on the 2nd Sunday of the month from 8am to 1pm, the markets offer a variety of fresh local produce jams and pickles, homemade gifts, second hand wares and much more. Meander through the array of market stalls and meet the local characters, all while relaxing at picture perfect Crescent Head.

Summer

Trial Bay Triathlon

8 – 9 February

Swim, cycle, run or walk the Coastline Credit Union Trial Bay Triathlon. Held at the historic Trial Bay Gaol and Arakoon State Conservation Area in South West Rocks, the gruelling event puts even the fittest of competitors to the test with a 500m swim, 25km cycle and a 6km run all in the heat of summer. Whether you’re looking to take on the challenge or just sit back and cheer on the event is not to be missed.

Image source – facebook.com/trialbaytri.com.au

Autumn

Crescent Head Malibu Classic

22 May – 24 May 2020

From the early 1960’s Crescent Head secured itself as a must visit destination on any surfers pilgrimage and soon became home to the Crescent Head Malibu Classic. Set in the National Surfing Reserve at Crescent Head it’s easy to see why this event attracts passionate long boarders and keen spectators year after year. Hosted by the Crescent Head Malibu Club, relax in the sunshine while watching skilled board riders cruise along the rolling waves, with a trick or two thrown in, with all proceeds raised going back to supporting local community groups.

Kempsey Show

21 – 22 April 2020

Serving up a full calendar of activities, if you’re visiting during Autumn, the Kempsey Show is not to be missed. With everything from livestock displays, to fireworks, corn dogs to show jumping and wood chopping, the show is a family favourite year after year. Teach the kids about farming or let them have fun on the maze of rides, all while enjoying the lively country show atmosphere.