Coastal Media – Born in Coffs Harbour

Sinclair Black • January 12, 2025

Every business has a beginning, and for Coastal Media, that story starts in Coffs Harbour. It was here, on the NSW Mid North Coast, that we really found our feet and began to make a name for ourselves. What started as a few projects quickly grew into a string of opportunities that connected us with local businesses, council, and tourism operators, and gave us the chance to showcase one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal regions to the world.


In those early days, our work stretched far beyond Coffs itself. We were producing videos from Brisbane to Sydney and as far west as Dubbo, but Coffs Harbour remained our home base and our creative anchor. We had the chance to work on a wide range of projects, from small business stories to campaigns with Destination NSW, Coffs Harbour City Council, and major local shopping centres. Each project was a building block, and together they laid the foundation for what Coastal Media would become.


One of the great privileges of that period was working closely with Coffs Harbour City Council. They were forward-thinking and eager to invest in campaigns that not only celebrated the local community but also drew visitors to the region. We were lucky enough to be part of developing and delivering a number of local tourism campaigns that achieved fantastic results. Those campaigns didn’t just sell a destination, they told a story about a lifestyle, a coastline, and a community that was unlike anywhere else.


Perhaps the project dearest to my heart was the work we did showcasing the beaches and natural beauty of the Coffs Coast. Being a beach person myself, with a lifelong love of the ocean, this was more than just another assignment, it was a dream. We spent weeks gathering footage, rising before dawn to capture soft pastel sunrises over the water, staying out late to film the coastline at dusk, and, on one unforgettable day, watching whales breach near the Solitary Islands. These were the moments that made the long hours worthwhile.


The goal of the campaign was simple: to show the world how unique and special the Coffs Coast really is. And the truth is, it didn’t take much effort. This part of Australia speaks for itself. With its blend of wild beauty and laid-back lifestyle, the Coffs Coast is one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in the country, and yet, it still feels wonderfully untouched. Unlike more crowded tourist spots, Coffs keeps its authenticity. And the best part? The water is warm all year round… well, almost.


Looking back, those projects were as much about shaping us as they were about promoting the region. They taught us how to capture not just images but emotion. They showed us the power of storytelling in building a brand, whether it’s for a city, a business, or a coastline. And they reminded us of why we started Coastal Media in the first place, to create content that inspires, connects, and leaves a lasting impression.


Today, when I see those early videos, I’m reminded of the energy, passion, and creativity that Coffs Harbour sparked in us. This is where Coastal Media found its rhythm, where we cut our teeth on projects that mattered, and where we learned the craft of showing places and people at their very best.


The Coffs Coast will always hold a special place in our story. It’s where we began, where we grew, and where we learnt the lesson that still guides everything we do: when you combine creativity with a place full of heart, the results can be something truly unforgettable.


cycling,tour de cure,
By Sinclair Black May 7, 2025
Filming on the go with just two cameras, a car, and a drone is no small task. There’s no retakes when you’re chasing cyclists across highways, hills, and small towns. It’s fast, intense, and full of moving parts. But that challenge is exactly what makes it so powerful. The raw energy, the candid interviews, and the little moments in between are what tell the story. From the early mornings in Forster to the emotional arrival into Sydney, what stood out most were the voices of the riders, people with their own connections to cancer, sharing stories of resilience, hope and determination. That’s the heart of Tour de Cure, and it’s what we set out to bring to the screen. I feel fortunate to have experienced Tour de Cure from both sides, riding with the team and filming their journey. Each time reinforces why these stories matter. They remind us that while the ride is tough, the fight against cancer is tougher, and every kilometre counts.
Blackmores
By Sinclair Black February 3, 2025
Looking back, some partnerships define not just a period of work, but a period of life. For me, Blackmores was exactly that. Through Coastal Media, I had the privilege of working with Blackmores during its true growth years, a time when the company was stepping confidently into global markets, strengthening its voice in Australia, and setting new benchmarks for sustainability and corporate responsibility. To be a small part of telling that story remains one of the great highlights of my career. What stands out most is not just the scale of the projects we delivered, but the people behind them. Over the years, I interviewed both Marcus Blackmore and Christine Holgate on countless occasions, capturing their insights and leadership in a way that resonated with staff, shareholders, and the broader community. These weren’t just staged interviews, they were genuine conversations with two leaders deeply invested in the brand, its people, and its purpose. Through these projects, I gained a front-row seat to the culture of Blackmores. Marcus, with his passion for natural health and authenticity, always brought a sense of grounded vision. Christine, with her drive and sharp business acumen, carried that vision forward with precision and energy. Together, they embodied the dual strength of tradition and innovation, and our job through Coastal Media was to help communicate that to the staff and the world. What truly set Blackmores apart was its people. The staff lived and breathed the company’s values of health, vibrance, and wellbeing. The culture was strong, and everyone believed in the same journey of looking after themselves and each other. With staff gyms, a lap pool, and time set aside for fitness classes, Blackmores didn’t just promote health, they lived it. The passion across the organisation was genuine, and you could feel it the moment you walked through the doors.