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Operator Profile - Lake Macquarie Fishing Charters

Come aboard the “Aqua Jack” a 40 ft Marco Cray fishing boat first launched in 1999, in Western Australia.  The vessel is fitted with the latest electronic equipment including GPS navigation and plotter, sonar and radio.  The vessel conforms to USL (United Shipping Law) Codes and carries all safety equipment including life rafts and satellite detectable emergency locator beacons.

The Skipper Chris holds an unrestricted open coxswain qualification and has been navigating vessels for 30 years.

The crew, Paul Carlson the owner and deck hand has been fishing for most of his life. He will be available to assist with tackle, fish handling and cleaning of catch.

Equipment includes ugly sticks with Shimano bait runners and Abu 7000 reels, all brand new with spider wire and fire line to increase the catch.

Choose a day fishing charter or an extended fishing safari and our experienced crew will take you to some of the best fishing locations between Norah Heads lighthouse Central Coast and the Stockton Bight north of Newcastle.  Morning and afternoon trips are also available.

Aqua Jack picks up passengers regularly from Toronto & Swansea, but is able to pick from other locations on the lake by arrangement.

There is a maximum of 12 people per trip at $120 per person. 50% Deposit to be taken when booking your cruise.

To enquire or book your next fishing charter contact Lake Macquarie Fishing Charters on : 0419 264 798

Local Bed & Breakfast Wins Award

One of Lake Macquarie’s charming Bed and Breakfast’s, CHRISTINA’S B&B in association with MASON ARCHITECTS have won the Lower Hunter Urban Design Award for Sustainable Development.

The Sustainable Development Award is for excellence in displaying the principles of environmentally sustainable design.

CHRISTINA’S B&B environmentally sustainable features include:

·         Energy efficient design minimising use of electricity and gas (5 star rating),

·         Solar hot water to minimise use of electricity or gas,

·         Orientation to gain the sun in winter and thermal mass for evening heating,

·         Shading, ventilation, fans and insulation for summer coolness,

·         Insulation and double glazing for winter warmth (and minimal noise),

·         Minimising use of water: Rainwater tanks for toilet flushing, laundry and garden watering,

·         Vegetable garden for fresh herbs, salads and fruit,

·         Recycling and composting,

·         Landscaping providing a healthy habitat for frogs.

·         Christina’s B&B is walking distance from a train station and restaurants minimising fuel use.

For further enquiries on this property please call The Lake Macquarie Visitor Centre on

1800 802 044.

AAA Tourism rates Christina’s B&B as 4 ½ STAR Environmentally friendly (and access friendly)

Mercure Lake Macquarie Raffertys Resort

Raffertys Resort is proud to announce is has become part of the Accor Hospitality Network under the Mercure Resort brand.

Mercure Lake Macquarie Raffertys Resort, located on the shores of Lake Macquarie, is the ideal venue for hosting conference or incentive getaways. Set on 35 acres of Australian bushland, the resort caters for all types of business pursuits from small executive retreats of 10 delegates to annual conferences for up to 250 people. The poolside bar and café area is also available giving companies a variety of working environments and meal options.

The Resort Restaurant soon to be re-branded “The Jetty Restaurant”, has a beautiful lakeside location and extensive views over Lake Macquarie. It is no surprise to see where the head chef Warrick Potts has got his inspiration from. The Jetty will also have a new wine list to compliment the exciting seafood selection.

Guests can enjoy a range of accommodation types including resort cottages and terrace/deluxe suites. Designed especially with conference delegates in mind, each terrace suite offers deluxe accommodation with two bedrooms, each with its own ensuite and private balcony. The suites are self contained with all modern conveniences.

Not only does the resort cater to the conference market. It is also the ideal destination for your next family holiday. During the school holidays you can take advantage of different activities such as kayaking , fishing, bike riding, volley ball, tennis. There is also a kids club available as well as a games room.

General Manager David Criss said,

 “I believe the pristine location on the lake and close proximity to Catherine Hill Bay and Caves Beach gives a unique position for both our conference and leisure markets. The property is an ideal venue for team building exercises or for the kids to run around. The resort is only 90 minutes from Sydney or 30 minutes from Newcastle providing a convenient location. The future is looking very exciting for Raffertys. It truly does “give you more weekend.”

Lake Macquarie Tourism Excels

 Lake Macquarie operators took out a record number of awards at the 2008 Hunter Regional Tourism awards held at Newcastle City Hall on the 21^st August. These first time winners demonstrate the variety of tourism product available in the city.  Winners ranged from a delightful B&B to a popular members club.  

The Lake Macquarie Tourism Visitor Information Centre at Swansea won the category for Excellence in Visitor Information Services. Senior Tourism Marketing Officer Bianca Gilmore said that the award recognized the strengths and unique aspects of the Centre.

“This award is recognition of the excellent service provided by the centre and dedication by the staff”. 

Belmont 16 Footers, one of the best-known clubs in Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Region picked up the award for registered clubs.

The new and stylish Bed and Breakfast, Christinas B&B won new tourism development.  They were up against a host of deserving entrants which only served to highlight their win.

Comfort Inn at Belmont, which is under new management won best standard accommodation.  The recent upgrading of the rooms at the hotel is testament to this win.

Chairperson of the Lake Macquarie Tourism Association Robert Kemmis, was acknowledged for his outstanding contribution and dedication to Lake Macquarie Tourism.  Robert is also well known as the owner of the charming Bed and Breakfast,  Kemeys Mountain Hideaway