The Riverside Art Walk is an easy, relaxed way to explore the holiday towns of Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens. Over 25 artworks, sculptures, mosaics and installations are positioned throughout the two towns. Originally they were placed on Marine Drive, along the bank of the Myall river but as the programme has expanded, they have spread out over both the towns, covering a much larger area. Without a map, it’s a bit like a treasure hunt. A guide to the walk is available from the local Tea Gardens Information Centre but because the works are so spread out, most people will probably just do the stretch along the river, rather than the whole trail. Most of the artworks have small plaques beside them, giving their title, date, name of the artist and a brief description. Some of the the older artworks are starting to show their age. Exposure to the weather and sun has weathered and faded some of them. New ones are added each year. Some are really very good and some, not so much. Two of the best ones are near the main beach in Hawks Nest. You have to look closely to find the small, new painting of a very realistic possum, peering out of a gum tree. You’ll find him near the main beach, next to the kids’ playground. It catches you by surprise and is a delight for kids. I believe the same artist has done a large tree frog also but I didn’t find that one. Nearby, overlooking the beach, is a lookout point with a steel frieze of the rare Gould’s petrel seabirds by artist, Chez Randes. Both the frieze and the view from here are very striking. The easiest way to see a selection of the works is to walk along Marine Drive, following the river. Starting from Singing Bridge and the Fish Co-op, you can look out for the following works: * River Crossing by Phillip M. Everett (beside the fish co-op) * Anzac Mural (in Anzac Park) * Pioneer Totem Poles by Margaret Germon (in front of the library) * Mosaic BBQs (along the riverfront, past the ferry) * Silent Witness by Lee Anderson (opposite HookNCook fish & chips) * Windows in Wood by Bronwyn Fife (also opposite HookNCook)