Conference news - Coffs Harbour

Spoilt for choice

A stretch of coastline with some of the state’s best resorts makes choosing a conference venue a rewarding task.
Once it was merely an overnight stopover, the halfway mark between Sydney and Brisbane on the Pacific Highway. These days, Coffs Harbour is a mature, well-rounded leisure and conference destination in its own right. And its appeal is understandable.

>> Conference venues and rooms in Coffs Harbour

The subtropical climate and cheery resort-style ambience says much. Being 550 kilometres north of Sydney and 430 kilometres south of Brisbane, it is easily accessible by car from many parts of regional New South Wales. In addition, Coffs Harbour Airport is the busiest regional airport in the state, served by Qantaslink, Virgin Blue and Sunshine Express. There are more than 70 flights each week, plus a new Virgin Blue service has recently begun between Coffs Harbour and Melbourne.

The major conference facilities all offer something a little different, although all are beachside resorts of considerable renown. The Novotel Pacific Bay Resort Coffs Harbour has 180 guestrooms and suites, three heated swimming pools and four flood-lit tennis courts. There are nine conference and function spaces, the largest seating up to 500 people theatre style. The semi-permanent Bay Marquee, erected on one of the tennis courts, seats 350 people for banquets. The Novotel’s Club Dolfi Kids Club is popular with delegates who bring their families along.

Opal Cove Resort has 135 hotel-style guestrooms and 38 self-contained two and three bedroom villas. Set on 36 hectares, its meetings facilities run to seven conference rooms, the largest seating 550 people theatre style or 320 for banquets. Amongst the range of facilities is a nine hole par three golf course, as well as four tennis courts, a heated swimming pool and freshwater lagoon.

SWIMMING FANS

The Pelican Beach Resort Australis has 113 guestrooms – including 12 suites, the largest free-form swimming pool in Coffs Harbour, three tennis courts, a volleyball court and a cricket pitch. There are nine meetings and function rooms, the largest measuring 158 square metres and seating 250 people theatre style.

The Sebel Aqualuna Beach Resort Coffs Harbour has 93 one, two and three bedroom villas and three meetings rooms, the largest seating 120 theatre style or 90 for banquets. The resort takes full advantage of its position on Sapphire Beach with stunning coastal views.

For executive retreats with a difference, try the Friday Creek Retreat in Upper Orara. Set on 40 hectares, accommodation comprises seven one bedroom and two two bedroom cottages. Individually decorated, they feature timber floors, claw- foot or spa baths, kitchens and open fires.