Bianca Nelson wears many hats: she’s a naturopath, Reiki practitioner, nutritionist and iridologist, she works in community welfare offering trauma and resilience support, she’s a mother, and a proud Yuin woman whose business is 100 per cent Aboriginal owned and operated. While her mob is from the NSW’s South Coast, Bianca was born and bred on the Central Coast, she believes our health and the health of Country is not separate. Working from Meraki Wellness Centre in Erina, she weaves clinical insights with the ancient wisdom of plant medicines, food as medicine and education to provide deep healing, with a special interest in women’s health.

Bianca shares with us what she loves most about the Central Coast...

Are you originally from the Central Coast?

I was born on the Central Coast and have continued to live here for my entire life. Because of this I have a strong connection to its land and waters. I do though have a strong connection to my Traditional Country (where my mob is from).

What do you love most about living on the Central Coast?

I love that we have the perfect mix of land and water. Rugged bushland meets the healing sea. I love all the wild swimming holes too. Perfect for cooling off in after a long bush walk!

Can you suggest any other Aboriginal-owned/operated businesses or experiences around the Coast?

Girri Girra, which is focused on providing rich Aboriginal cultural experiences. I am hoping more Aboriginal-owned businesses pop up over time.

Where is the first place you’d take your guest when they visit the Coast?

On a bushwalk followed by a dip in the water. Little Beach, in Bouddi National Park, is lovely and is perfect to do with kids as the walk there (Bouddi Coastal Walk) isn’t too difficult. Otherwise, perhaps a hidden gem like Pearly Ponds (a waterhole at Pearl Beach).

Do you have a favourite spot for a morning coffee?

I love to grab my coffee from The Daily Brew in Berkeley Vale, which is owned by my friend Gracie. I used to live on the southern end of the Central Coast and hands down my favourite there was Lords of Pour. They make a delicious cold brew.

What is your favourite restaurant?

For a fun time with friends, Shady Palms in Avoca is a great option. For a date night, you can’t beat the ambience of Bar Toto at Ettalong. They also make great cocktails.

The Central Coast now has ECO Destination status – do you have local tips for travellers to explore our region sustainably?

Please tread lightly always. Don’t litter and think about preserving our beautiful Central Coast for generations to come.

What is your go-to outdoors experience?

A bushwalk and swim – you just can’t beat it. Being in the bush clears my head and feeds my spirit. Being in the water cleanses and calms me. Some of my favourite bushwalks include the Girrakool Loop, Bouddi Coastal Walk, Bambara off Woy Woy Road with the hieroglyphs and Grandmother Tree, Strickland State Forest and Somersby Falls when it reopens in December 2023. I love wandering off the beaten track though, because you never know which hidden gems you may find.

Describe a typical weekend day on the Central Coast for you...

On warmer days my family and I will either head to the beach or spend our day by the pool at home. We try to go for a bushwalk wherever we can.  At night we love to have dinners with friends, or quiet time as a family.

On cooler weekends, I love to spend the day being cosy reading and cooking nourishing food. I also enjoy doing craft with my son. Saturday mornings, when not in clinic, I enjoy a walk and tasting at Firescreek Winery and pottery classes at Asha Moon Studio. I love to do a yoga or barre at Mingara Recreation Club or a Crossfit class. Crossfit Minerva in Tuggerah is great, even as a casual guest. For women looking for empowerment through exercise I also recommend G Force Pole Dance and Fitness.

Oh and I’ll never say no to a seafood platter!