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Bushranger Midnight's Grave

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bushranger Midnight's Grave

Enngonia is associated with two bushrangers stories. In 1868 Captain Starlight mortally wounded Constable McCabe of the Bourke Police at the local inn. He was pursued west and captured some months later on Mt Gundabooka. Bushranger Midnight was also pursued from Enngonia in 1878 and shot near Wapweelah. His grave can be found 39 kilometres west of Enngonia. Trek over Irrara Creek about 700 metres where you will see a hut on your left, just past there is a gate and 150 metres from the gate is a stone monument. Although Midnight was wounded near Wapweelah, he died in a hut not far from his grave. For more information on the history of Enngonia, please visit the VisitBourke website and visit the Enngonia listing.

Enngonia NSW

0.0 km away

Ledknapper Nature Reserve

Natural Attractions

Ledknapper Nature Reserve

Ledknapper Nature Reserve is about 100 kilometres northeast of Bourke, and is home to some threatened and protected species of flora and fauna. The landscape is made up of both red dirt sand hills and clay pans, and is home to flowers like the yellow grevilia and the lesser-known white grevilia, the red sandhills are covered in spinifex and there is also our native wildlife to see. The nature reserve itself is not open to the public, but visitors are more than welcome to drive through the public road to see the wildlife and the reserve. The best time to visit the Ledknapper Nature Reserve is when the roads have reopened after rain.

Enngonia NSW

27 km away

Cuttaburra National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Cuttaburra National Park

This remote, rugged and beautiful place lies in the Paroo and Warrego River country. It's one of several national parks along the Dowling Track a historic outback 4WD trail that connects Bourke to Quilpie in Queensland. Take the Cuttaburra scenic drive, a 38km network of 4WD trails, and visit Maranoa Waterhole, a 6km-long semi-permanent waterhole ideal for birdwatching, fishing, or relaxing under coolabahs and river red gums. Look out for red kangaroos and emus as they pick their way through the stony shrublands against a palette of pink, lilac and yellow flowering plants. After a day exploring, pitch your tent at Comeroo campground and fall asleep under a starlit ceiling. Wetland conservation in this semi-arid outback landscape is crucial. Over one-quarter of Cuttaburra National Park stretches across Yantabulla Swamp a mosaic of wetlands and channels. The swamp is an important connection between the Warrego and Paroo Rivers and is one of Australia's most important wetlands. When full, it hosts thousands of internationally protected migratory shorebirds and up to 50,000 waterbirds. In dry spells, it retreats to scattered waterholes and billabongs. Cuttaburra Creek flows through the middle of the park, breathing life into...

Yantabulla NSW

62 km away

The Big Yabby

Landmarks and Buildings

The Big Yabby

Crafted in 2020 for the townspeople of Ford's Bride, the Big Yabby has attracted many travellers to this small but mighty town. The Warrego River at Fords Bridge has a reputation as the place to get the best yabbies'. After a day of yabbying, they recommend cooking your catch for dinner and then visiting the Warrego Hotel for a cold beverage and to say hello to the publican. All you need is a bit of string to catch a few, and a few is all it takes to have a fun day out, and dinner at the end of the day.

Fords Bridge NSW

63 km away

Nancy Bird Air Terminal

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Nancy Bird Air Terminal

The North Bourke Airport is an airport located four nautical miles north of Bourke, New South Wales, Australia. The airport was opened for access in 1943 as a base for World War II. The Royal Australian Air Force used the airport to bring in supplies during the floods in 1976 and 1990. The terminal is named after Australian aviator Nancy Bird Walton. Nancy Bird Walton was born near Port Macquarie, NSW, in 1915. She was keen on flying from a very early age, and after saving hard, she took her first lesson with Charles Kingsford Smith, eventually earning her Commercial License at the age of nineteen. Nancy was the youngest woman in the Commonwealth at the time to hold such a license. Her first commercial job in aviation was flying for the Far West Children's Health Scheme, based in Bourke! In 1935, with help from her dad and Aunt Annie, Nancy was able to buy her first place - a beautiful Gipsy Moth for just 400 pounds.

North Bourke NSW

81 km away

Jandra Paddleboat — Image credit: DNSW

Landmarks and Buildings

Jandra Paddleboat

Experience the famous Darling River aboard the majestic Jandra Paddleboat. Enjoy one of the relaxing daily cruises, or book a private charter for your special event. Once onboard, the Captain will inform and entertain you with a delightful commentary on river life, flora, fauna, and the riverboat era's history. The original Jandra was a steam paddle boat, built in Mannum, South Australia, in 1894 for Arthur Senior of Bourke. Their modern paddle vessel was built by Russell Mansell and his family and commissioned in 2000; the first paddle boat to operate on the Darling River in over 60 years. If you are interested in participating in a cruise, you are able to purchase a ticket the day beforehand at the Back O' Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre, or you are also able to purchase a ticket on board the Jandra by arriving 15 minutes prior to the cruise leaving.

Bourke NSW

81 km away

Back O' Bourke Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Back O' Bourke Gallery

The Back O’ Bourke Gallery is situated on the banks of the Darling River at North Bourke, five kilometres north of the legendary Australian town of Bourke in outback NSW. This beautifully presented gallery houses the studio of one of Australia’s foremost established outback artists, Jenny Greentree. Jen’s art is inspired by the rich Australian outback scenery and together with her husband Steve they have developed a gallery that never ceases to impress the many visitors that pass through its doors. This working commercial gallery is a must-see gallery on the ‘Outback art gallery loop’ from Lightning Ridge to Broken Hill and original works and reproductions have found homes around Australia and overseas.

North Bourke NSW

82 km away

Bourke Boat Ramp

Landmarks and Buildings

Bourke Boat Ramp

One of the most popular locations for locals and travellers alike is the Boat Ramp just upstream from the Historic North Bourke Bridge. Boasting interconnected sand bars, enormous gum trees, sweeping bends, rock bars and plenty of space, the boat ramp is a great spot for day trippers wanting to get a close look at the paddleboat Jandra as she sweeps around the bend and off under the historic lift-span bridge. Of course, it's also the ideal place if you plan on taking your own tour of the Darling. The sandy beach area around the boat ramp is popular with locals for water skiing and having a fun day at the river. The boat ramp area also has barbeques and shaded picnic tables.

North Bourke NSW

82 km away

North Bourke Bridge — Image credit: Destination NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

North Bourke Bridge

North Bourke Bridge is Australia's oldest movable span bridge. This bridge is one of the most historic bridges in New South Wales. It is the sole survivor of the first two lift bridges built in New South Wales. Opened on 4 May 1883, this lift bridge was designed by J H Daniels and modified in 1895 and 1903 by E M de Burgh, both Public Works bridge engineers. Built at the zenith of the River Trade, its construction was begun by David Baillie and completed by McCulloch & Co. The 1895 modifications led to improved designs for subsequent lift-span bridges. The North Bourke Bridge was designed and constructed at the height of the River Trade era when the principal mode of transport for Western NSW and the Riverina District was some 200 paddle steamer-barge combinations operating the Murray-Darling River system. It served as a Gateway structure for 114 years before being bypassed in 1997! Located three kilometres North of Bourke on the Kidman Way. Please be aware that the North Bourke Bridge is closed to all pedestrian access.

North Bourke NSW

82 km away

Maritime Trail

Natural Attractions

Maritime Trail

Walk or drive along the Maritime Trail and learn all about Bourke's maritime history on the information signs dotted along the river track. Also explore the relics of the paddle boat steamer the P.S Wave stranded in the 1929 floods. The maritime trail map can be found on the VisitBourke website under the Road Trips and 4WD.

Bourke NSW

84 km away

Back O' Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Back O' Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre

The Back O' Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre is set amongst the native garden of the river red gums on the banks of the Darling River. The centre allows you to experience a journey through life in the backcountry; rediscovering the stories of Australia through modern eyes, taking you from the rich cultural history of the past through to the future of the Australian Outback. This world-class centre employs a series of interactive installations and stunning visual screen displays to immerse visitors with stories of the Australian Outback, bringing them to life and actively engaging visitors with the area's rich history. Engage and uncover stories of early exploration, the poets, local bush rangers, the grazing industry, Outback legends and conflicts. Browse their delightful range of Back O' Bourke merchandise and locally made products in the gift shop and check out what's happening around the region!

Bourke NSW

85 km away

Bourke Lock and Weir

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bourke Lock and Weir

The Lock at the Bourke Weir was the first to be built on a river anywhere along with the Murray/Darling river systems. Built in 1897, and was designed to maintain a reasonable level of water in the river near the town. The lock measures 59.5 metres between gates and is 11 metres wide. It was concreted and converted into a weir in 1941. Pick up the Bourke Brochure, that contains a map with detailed directions, from the Back O’ Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre. For further information on the Bourke Weir please visit the VisitBourke website. Located seven kilometres West of Bourke on Anson St.

Bourke NSW

85 km away

Bourke Men's Shed and Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bourke Men's Shed and Gallery

Bourke Men's Shed was started in 2008 and now has around 15 members. This is a place for men to meet, socialise and join in activities. It provides an opportunity to make new friends, develop new skills, improve old ones, and participate in projects for personal and community benefit. It focuses on the mental, physical and social well-being of men. The main activity is making pens from local timber, which are then sold to visitors and locals. They attend local shows, market days to hold barbeques, and field days to sell pens and help recruit new members. Visitors are welcome at any time.

Bourke NSW

86 km away

Bourke Historic Wharf

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bourke Historic Wharf

Once the largest inland port on the Darling River the wharf represents Bourke’s historic link with the river trade. Now a peaceful community place to view the Darling River. The Bourke Wharf is a replica of the original wharves in Bourke. The area was considered to have little prospects for commercial activity. In the late 1850s, the Darling River was opened up as a key transport route, and river communities like Bourke grew as important transport centres. While the wharf is a replica, it has been constructed showing how the design of the wharf caters for the varying levels of water that occurs on the Darling River. Bales of wool were towed down the river by paddle steamers. Still, eventually, river transport was replaced when other forms of transport became available, and the last commercial riverboat finished in 1931. (Brian, B & W). To learn more about the history of Bourke and how the wharves were utilised visit the Back O' Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre.

Bourke NSW

86 km away

Historical Crossley Engine

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Historical Crossley Engine

The Crossley Engine in Bourke is an oil-fuelled stationary engine manufactured by the Crossley Brothers in 1923. Over the years more than 100,000 Crossley oil and gas engines were built, and it is a testament to their quality that many are still in use today. It is an example of an early water-cooled four-stroke diesel type engine, which followed on from the steam era. With two cylinders sitting side by side and a 6-ton flywheel between them, the 6,562 cubic inch engine produced 138bhp at 260rpm or 108.6 litre with 103kW of power using modern measures. This particular engine was originally used from 1923 to 1938 in the Sydney Power House to generate electricity for Sydney. From 1938 it was used in the Allowrie Butter Factory in Coffs Harbour until 1949 when it went to a property in Narromine in 1949 to pump water for irrigation until 1964. (Brian, B. & W. 2018) The Crossley Engine is able to be viewed in its shed at the Historical Wharf area at any time.

Bourke NSW

86 km away

Central Park Playground

Parks and Gardens

Central Park Playground

Central Park Playground is Bourke's most popular playground, with its close proximity to the skate park and other central park activities. Perfect for kids who need to stretch their legs and burn some energy! With lots of shady seating areas nearby for parents to enjoy. The Bourke Skate Park, at Central Park on the Mitchell St side, is the local go-to place for skaters to show off their skills on their boards, bikes and scooters! The concrete park is well-shaded and offers plenty of seating and picnic tables nearby, perfect for some lunch while you watch the kids. The Little Kids Bike Track is on the Oxley St side of Central Park. It offers young bike and scooter riders a fun track to ride along with road signs and speed humps. Make the outdoor gym a stop on your run, jog or walk around town during your stay! Shoot some hoops or enjoy a family game of basketball on the half-court. Two locations for the older kids and adults to have some fun and fitness!

Bourke NSW

86 km away

Bourke Aboriginal Art Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bourke Aboriginal Art Gallery

Discover the talents of local Bourke Aboriginal Artists, blending traditional and modern techniques in their paintings and carvings. Explore the Bourke Aboriginal Art Gallery on the main street, nestled between the Chemist and CBA bank. Witness the diverse range of Aboriginal art originating from the Bourke region. Everyone is invited to browse, make a purchase, or engage in a friendly conversation!

Bourke NSW

86 km away

Historical Buildings of Bourke

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Historical Buildings of Bourke

Bourke showcases many historically significant buildings well over 100 years old. Of particular interest is the Court House built in 1900 at the cost of 9,500 pounds. It is the farthest inland Maritime Court in Australia. Other noteworthy buildings include the Post Office and the Fitzgerald Post Office Hotel, the Western Lands Department, the Roman Catholic Church and Towers Drug Company and many more.

Bourke NSW

86 km away

Bourke Racecourse Parkrun

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Bourke Racecourse Parkrun

A free, fun, and friendly weekly five-kilometre community event that takes place every Saturday at the Bourke Racecourse. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it's up to you. Come along and join in whatever your pace! Afterwards, grab a coffee in a local café with other participants. Please register before you first come along. Only ever register with Parkrun once and don't forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder)

Bourke NSW

86 km away

Bourke Fishing Reserve

Natural Attractions

Bourke Fishing Reserve

A great place to view the historic Bourke Weir and Lock, you can almost hear the old paddle steamers whistle at the bend alerting the lock-keeper that would be needed to operate the large chamber and facilitate access up or downstream for the vessels. The weir and lock, although not in use, are in great condition, and the weir still services the community of Bourke. Beyond the infrastructure of the lock and weir the Fishing Reserve provides access to a number of public sites including beaches, rock-bars and shady picnic areas. There are a range of walking / cycling tracks interconnecting the numerous riverside sites, and most locations have tables and barbeques, with shared toilets located between sites.

Bourke NSW

87 km away

Percy Hobson Mural

Landmarks and Buildings

Percy Hobson Mural

The Percy Hobson Mural was completed in April 2021, on the Bourke water tank, by the renowned Lightning Ridge artist John Murray, local artists Brian Smith and Bobby Barrett, Melbourne street artist Lucas Kasper, and a crew of local young Aboriginal artists. As a finishing touch, the Bourke community added their hand prints to the bottom of the mural. The mural honours Bourke’s Commonwealth gold medallist, showing Percy Hobson clearing the high jump bar with Red-tailed Black cockatoos on the other side of the tank. At the 1962 Perth Commonwealth Games, Percy Hobson became the first Aboriginal athlete to win a gold medal for Australia. Aged 20 years at the time, Hobson took victory in the high jump, clearing the bar at 6ft11in. (2.11 metres), setting a new Commonwealth Games record.

Bourke NSW

87 km away

Bourke's Historic Cemetery

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bourke's Historic Cemetery

The coolabahs of Bourke Cemetery stand guard over a fascinating piece of Australia's frontier history and clues to some of the most poignant stories you could ever imagine. While the new (and current) section of the Bourke Cemetery continues to serve the community in remembrance of their loved ones, the historic old section holds the secrets of a bygone age. The old graves of Afghan cameleers sit beside a corrugated iron mosque, one of the country's oldest places of Muslim worship. Just across the way, Chinese characters are depicted about the souls who came to Australia to bring the first market gardens and establish the first Asian communities. Sons of Ireland, Scotland and every corner of the British Empire were dispatched to Australia to make their mark, and whether they made it or not, many found their final resting place in the Bourke Cemetery. A visit will take you back into a world of bush rangers and drovers, cameleers and river boatmen, lost children, and local heroes. So many of the epitaphs tell of the tragedy that constantly stalked the western plains; " drowned" "killed by lightning" "murdered" "sheer isolation took its toll" "poisoned himself" "shot dead by police", and "found hanging in the bush".

Bourke NSW

87 km away

Darling River Golf Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Darling River Golf Club

Darling River Golf Club is a sand greens golf course located in Bourke; a historic town is located on the banks of the Darling River. Darling River Golf Club hosts a variety of competition days to support Charities, the Bourke Pro Am, 9 hole and 18 hole weekend golf. They also host a free "Come and Try Day" for those wanting to experience golf for the first time. The Darling River golfers enjoy their little 'Clubhouse,' a nice way to spend their Fridays.

Bourke NSW

87 km away

Fred Hollow's Grave and Memorial

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Fred Hollow's Grave and Memorial

Fred Hollows received a full state funeral when he died in February 1993; however, the grave of this New Zealand-born ophthalmologist is, in keeping with his wishes ‘under a Coolabah tree at Bourke.’ It may seem surprising to many that such a dignified and nationally loved identity would choose such a final resting place, but for those who knew Fred (and there are still many in Bourke who did), it is entirely appropriate. Fred devoted his life to improving the vision of thousands of people, and his egalitarian principles meant that he couldn’t ignore the appalling health conditions of Aboriginal people in the 1970s. These principles took him deep into the heart of the country, where he improved and restored the vision for thousands of Aboriginal people, pioneering techniques that he would alter, standardise, and expand to deliver the same outcomes to impoverished people of the world. Fred’s work continues to this day through the Fred Hollows Foundation, a true legacy of his remarkable life. In addition, Bourke is proud to host and maintain a small memorial to Fred at his gravesite, a pilgrimage for some, a place of reflection for others, and a small testimony to the man who made such a difference to so many.

Bourke NSW

87 km away

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