Our Story

We’ve called Yamba home since 2013, after moving down from the Gold Coast for what was meant to be a temporary sea change. But once we settled in, it didn’t take long to realise just how special this place is — the beaches, the sunsets, the people — and we knew we were here to stay.

To make our new coastal life work, we bought the local bait and tackle shop in Iluka. After giving it a refresh, we built Iluka Bait and Tackle into a well-stocked, community-minded business that locals rely on and visitors love discovering.

A few years later, we saw the potential to make even better use of the space. So, with a bit of imagination (and probably a touch of wishful thinking about wine time), Iluka Sunset + Wine was born in 2023 — a small, welcoming wine bar where people can unwind, share a drink, and enjoy the magic of an Iluka sunset. It’s been one of our best decisions yet, and we’re so grateful that everyone loves it as much as we do.

Not ones to sit still for long, we have now brought the same relaxed, coastal charm to Yamba Sunset + Wine at the Yamba Marina — a bright, outdoor bar with that familiar “holiday every day” feel we first created in Iluka.

Ross brings over 30 years of experience in the marine mammal behaviour industry and a lifelong love of the ocean, boating, and fishing, while Sonia’s career has been in marketing, publicity, and media,

Together, we’ve blended our love for the coast, community, and connection into something we’re truly proud of — places where everyone feels welcome, the sunsets are free, and there’s always a good story (and a great glass of wine) to share.