Ballina
Along the Kerry Saxby Walkway.
I’ve heard it called, “Ballifornia.” At first glance, the town isn’t much to look at. It’s coastal on one side and the other is pressed against a river. There’s one main strip of stores and restaurants. The town is bigger than Lennox, but not by much. I only spent a day exploring, but I don’t think you need any more time than that.
I went to four cafes (I’ll only share the ones I liked). I bought a new shirt (I’m wearing it as I write this). I walked along the river… twice. I contemplated going to the Maritime Museum (I didn’t). It was a slow day, and I still managed to walk six miles around town.
I don’t even know if I should be writing this blog. Except I want you to know that this town was charming. I enjoyed seeing people out and about, living their ruralish lives. I saw people having picnics, fishing by the river, and skating at the local skate park. I saw kids teasing each other while riding bikes along said river. I heard a the battle of the bands at the skate park. I ate a chocolate babka recommended by the 12 year old behind the counter at a cafe. I don’t think anything was particularly exciting, but it was nice. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
I think it should be noted that I had my best first date by the Ballina skate park. We spent hours talking on a bench by the river. He made me want to believe in “love at first date.” In the end, I believe I’m in love with the idea of love. Even if I never find myself in Ballina again, the town will have a special place in my heart. So will he.
If you find yourself in or near Ballina, I recommend the following:
Get a coffee and a pastry from Lehem Bread House and walk along the Kerry Saxby Walkway to really enjoy the river.
Get dinner at Hey Lady Diner. It’s fun and eclectic, and the food is incredible. I’m still thinking about the prawns and bao buns - which I did not expect to find on the menu at a small town in Australia.
Stop in and say hi to the women at Sublime Clothing. Let them convince you to buy your new favorite shirt.
Get dinner at Capiche at sunset. Sit by the big glass windows, and look out into the ocean. The food is just okay, but I think I ordered wrong. Go there and tell me if you ordered right.
