Sussex Inlet

Mum loved fishing. Whenever she had the time and the energy she could be found on one of the wharves in Davistown or Saratoga, spending an hour or two with a line in the water. She was modestly successful in catching fish, though I think she enjoyed it more for the peace and contemplation time fishing can offer.

Over the past few years Mum had a strong desire to visit Sussex Inlet on the NSW south coast and stay there for a while to go fishing. And to go to a particular place in the village that had caught her fancy called Alonga Waterfront Cottages. Unfortunately because of its distance from Gosford she would have had to travel with someone else – indeed would have preferred that for the company – and for one reason or another the trip was never made. Until now, at least in spirit. I have come down here with Joel to stay at Alonga Waterfront Cottages for a few days to fish, contemplate and remember Mum.

Mum had good instincts: she would have loved this place. Our three-bedroom cottage has 180 degree views of the water from its covered balcony, and there are half a dozen jetties to fish from only metres from the door. The cottage is large too, with full kitchen, TV and DVD player, comfortable lounge and lots of peace. Birds are everywhere, from pelicans perched on mooring posts and kookaburras in trees to bright red rosellas that fly up to your door looking for handouts. In the evening the wallabies come into town and the grounds of the holiday parks to graze. With its placid waterways and nearby beaches, it’s easy to see why this place is a great holiday destination for families.

So far our attempts at fishing have only managed to feed the fish, though we did see some large flathead cruising the reeds just a few feet away from us this afternoon. There’s always tomorrow…. as for tonight, we have the chance to indulge in another of Mum’s favoured pastimes at the local pub. They are holding a regular poker night, so we’ll do our best to be a bit more successful at that than the fishing!