A new exhibition by local wildlife artist Rachel Lewis, featuring prints of her latest commission 'Sea Eagle'. There are also some original miniatures and new small paintings in this exhibition as well as a selection of Rachel's favourite prints both on canvas and paper. Rachel's work is almost photographic in detail and her subjects reflect her life long obsession with Australia's birds, reptiles and mammals. Make sure you don't miss out on this special exhibition. Open 9.00am to 4pm daily.

BRUCE MATHISKE – GUITAR VIRTUOSO

Fiery fretwork, delicate harmonics, notes exploding from both hands to the tenderly caressed all culminating in the rhythmic virtuosity of Guitar Maestro Bruce Mathiskes live concert. Expect an entertaining night of stringed excellence with infectious rhythms from far flung corners of his guitar as well as Mathiskes engaging, humorous persona as he returns in concert to Bellingen Memorial Hall on Thursday 11 Feb at 8pm to release his new CD.

Bruce Mathiskes long awaited CD/DVD release is his most significant to date. The title “Rhythm Hunter” allows Mathiske to explore different genres whilst retaining album continuity and importantly his own very unique style. Solo Virtuosity pieces such as “Rushin’ Around” sit perfectly alongside the wistful “Water is Wide”. The guitar standard “Classical Gas” has been given a Mathiske twist by injecting a Spanish accent and “My Way”, a guitar and Ukulele duet, has a lively Latin Rhythm. Mathiskes composition skills are on show particularly with “Loco El Gato” & “Formidable Sea”, pieces that were written for five guitars. His simultaneous guitar and Didgeridoo playing is highlighted on the almost Celtic “Best of Australia Theme”, which is the title theme of his music scores for the Australian Geographic “Best of Australia” series. The new release comes with a bonus DVD also title Rhythm Hunter, which takes you on a journey with Bruce and his quest for world rhythms. This highly entertaining travel/music documentary sees Mathiske travel through Morocco and South America.

Bruce's many eclectic & various music influences from his world travels and guitarists from the likes of Chet Atkins, Django Reinhardt, Jimi Hendrix, Leo Kottke, BB King, Barney Kessell and Al Di Meola have evolved into an exciting style all his own. His albums and concerts are a mix of many rhythms and moods, add to this Didgeridoo and Mathiske surpasses expectations at every turn, audiences are gob smacked at his ability to play bass, rhythm and melody simultaneously.

"A model demonstration of guitar virtuosity and richness of Mathiske's musical palette. Marvel at the speed of his playing on Nashville Express with its hints of country. Be amused at how, with Slipstreaming and Caribbean Daze, he could easily be a member of Jimmy Buffet's band. And, as he wanders around the region, see how effortlessly he embraces smooth Latin sounds with Havana Nights and the richness of Spain and Mexico with El Martes Gracioso. Mathiske is quite simply, a great guitar player.” Bruce Elder - Sydney Morning Herald"

You will learn an overview of Raw Foods and why they are extremely
beneficial for optimum health, vitality and weight management. You
will be shown step by step how to create absolutely delicious meals,
including recipes to take home and try out with your family and
friends. Come hungry and network with similar people who are
seeking more vitality from food.

NRL Pre-Season Game

South Sydney Rabbitohs versus Gold Coast Titans

Come out to the BCU International Stadium to witness the pre-season NRL clash between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Gold Coast Titans.  Bring the whole family for an evening of sporting fun.

Ticket Prices:

GRANDSTAND - reserved seating      All seats $32.50 (incl booking fee)

GENERAL ADMISSION - Outer Ground

Early Bird (3rd December 2009 to 22 January 2010) - All prices include booking fee

Adult - $12.50,    Concession - $7.50,  Child (6 to 14 years) - $7.50,   Family (2A + 2C) - $40.00

Standard Prices (23 January to 20 February 2010) - All prices include booking fee

Adult - $17.50,    Concession - $12.50,  Child (6 to 14 years) - $12.50,   Family (2A + 2C) - $50.00

Children 5 years and under - free in Outer Ground.  Full Grandstand charge if sitting in the grandstand.

Gates Open - 4:00pm   Local 7's Game  - 5:00pm   Main Game - 7:00pm

Location:  Coffs Harbour - BCU International Stadium

The Australian Army Rugby League team will play Bellingen Valley/Dorrigo Rugby League team in the now annual game played in memory of Sergeant Matthew Locke from Bellingen who was killed in action in 2007 whilst serving Australia in Afghanistan.  

All proceeds on the day will go to designated charities nominated by the Locke family; The Grub Club, the Locke’s charity set up to aid education in Afghanistan and East Timor, Legacy charged with the task of caring for the widows and dependants of servicemen lost in conflict and the Bellingen Valley/Dorrigo Junior Rugby League Club. 

As part of the fund raising activities we will be conducting raffles and an auction after the game. David Peachey, Wendell Sailor and Hazem El Masri will be attending with NBN providing plenty of coverage.

We still require sponsorship and/or donations with all receiving recognition in all advertising and announcements made during the day and evening at the venues. We would also be happy to display any signage or banners of sponsors.

Performers of all shapes and sizes pour out of the woodwork for this fortnightly open mic night. There's no questioning the range of talent around Bellingen - you might be inspired to add your voice. Ph. 6655 1003

Various artists

Coming Event dates

Sunday Jan 17

Sun Feb 21

Sun March 21