History

Sawtell

The seaside village of Sawtell, only 6kms south of Coffs Harbour, offers a quiet relaxed alternative to the hustle and bustle. It is one of the few villages left along the coast that has retained the charm of yesteryear.

Sawtell is bounded to the east by safe surf beaches, to the north and south by unspoiled waterways and Bongil Bongil National Park, and to the west by scenic mountain ranges. This unique geographic location makes Sawtell an ideal town for both visitors and locals alike.

The Sawtell area was originally known as Bongil Bongil by the local Kumbaingeri Aboriginal tribe who inhabited this coastal area relishing in the bountiful supply of fish and game.

The first white settler, Walter Harvey, came in 1863 in search of red gold the beautiful red cedar trees, so prized for their valuable timber. From there a small community was evolved, but it wasn’t until Osmond Campbell Sawtell in 1923 decided to subdivide the holding he purchased for 500 pounds that Sawtell really began to grow. The railway opened in 1925 and in 1927 a Post Office, followed a year later by a local school.

In 1927 the road north was opened and Coffs Harbour became the major town of the region. Always a popular tourist destination, Sawtell is now experiencing a revival, as new homes, subdivisions and shopping centres lure locals and tourist alike by its quiet, unhurried charm.

Sawtell Shopping Village lends itself to browsing, serious shopping, eating and entertainment. All your requirements are at your fingertips.

The treelined streets boast an array of delightful cafes and restaurants including the Island Cafe open nightly from 5.3Opm, Shimmers Cafe which offers breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea 6 days and dinner Friday and Saturday from 6pm. Howies Fisho also offers takeaway foods. Sunpatch Surf Shop is your clothing and Surfwear Paradise, they offer all the popular surf brands, swimwear, men’s, ladies and kids wear galore.

If you are looking for a relaxing day treat yourself to a new hairstyle or a facial at Headland Hair. Visit the Lightstream Health Clinic for a wonderful massage and then just down the lane you can spend an interesting hour with Irene Key and experience the wonder of numerology and tarot card readings.

Sawtell boasts excellent accommodation with Creekside Inn where you can enjoy a romantic week-end retreat or a wonderful holiday close to all Sawtell’s facilities.

Coffs World Travel provides you with personal service to help you with all your travelling needs. Don’t forget to visit the Sawtell Cinema to see all the new releases at great prices. And just a short drive or walk to the Sawtell Golf Club you can enjoy a day’s golf and all the clubs facilities including Phone TAB, Keno, and Poker Machines.

Situated in the main street is also many professional services, Roger Bale and Byrne and Miller are just a few who can help you with all your investment and taxation advice.

Sawtell definitely has a charm of its own, with its beautiful beaches and treelined streets, it’s the perfect getaway whether for a day or a week.

Reprinted from Harbour Views, Wednesday, January 19, 2000