AN early morning crowd gathered at the Nambucca Heads V-Wall last week as Channel Seven’s Sunrise breakfast program broadcast live from the Valley, shining a national spotlight on the region.
Around 70 locals attended the first live cross at 5.45am, with many more joining throughout the morning as the broadcast highlighted the area’s unique attractions, businesses and community spirit.
Nambucca Valley Council worked alongside the Sunrise team to coordinate the broadcast, using the opportunity to promote the region and the experiences on offer to visitors.
Council’s Manager Economic Development and Tourism, Jan Rooney, said the event was a strong success, made possible by the enthusiasm of local residents and businesses.
“When I asked Sunrise weatherman, Sam Mac, what he liked best about the Nambucca Valley he said it was the local characters he met today,” she said.
“The V-Wall Pavilion generously provided free bacon and egg rolls to help pull in an early morning crowd and 15-year-old local vocalist, Violette Hyland, performed live on air to an audience of over one million viewers, artist Ian Moule painted a new rock along the V-wall and we had imaginative performances by Encore Studio’s rovers.”
Ms Rooney expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to show off some of the Nambucca Valley’s attributes.
“We proudly showed off many of our local business people and agricultural products and it was a great success,” she added.
The broadcast featured a range of local businesses and producers, with a focus on the Valley’s river and fertile landscape.
Nambucca Macnuts General Manager Shaun Tholen joined Sam Mac for a nut-cracking competition, while Antoine and Paul from Nambucca Oyster Company demonstrated oyster shucking live on air.
Local business owners Wendy Campbell of Wendy’s Coiffure and Kay Harkness of In Touch Boutique also featured, sharing their insights on style and their long-standing success in business.
Long-time local couple Stan and Nora McRae were also part of the broadcast, chatting with Sam Mac during their regular walk along the V-Wall and reflecting on the secret to their 73-year marriage.
Mr Tholen said the experience was a valuable opportunity to showcase the region.
“It was amazing to have received the opportunity to showcase organic macadamia nuts to a national audience of over one million people,” he said.
“It was fantastic to have the Sunrise team visit the Nambucca Valley and there were so many locals that came out also, so I was really happy with the turnout. It was a truly fun community activity.”
The live broadcast provided a significant promotional boost for the Nambucca Valley, highlighting its vibrant community, local talent and thriving businesses to viewers across the country.
By Mick BIRTLES
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