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Ioannis (Jack) and Antonios (Tony) Notaras Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ioannis (Jack) and Antonios (Tony) Notaras Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates brothers Ioannis (Jack) and Antonios (Tony) Notaras, Greek migrants who became highly successful restaurateurs and built Grafton's best-known theatre and cinema, the Saraton.

Grafton NSW

0.0 km away

Celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the Saraton Theatre — Image credit: Saraton theatre

Entertainment Venues

Saraton Theatre Grafton

The Saraton Theatre Grafton is a heritage-listed Theatre in Grafton N.S.W originally built in 1926 and fully restored 16 years ago. It also displays a NSW Blue Plaque in commeroration of its original builders . It operates as a three Cinema Complex as well as a Theatre for Live performances seating up to 900 people. A National Trust top award-winning restored 1926 iconic theatre, the Saraton is the best location for live theatre, concerts, conventions, school activities and fundraising. Live Acts to play include Amy Shark, Jon Stevens, comedians Luke Kidgell, Anh Do, and many more. See the website for a list of their events. Located in the centre of Grafton; close to shops, hotels, motels , restaurants and plenty of parking. All three cinemas feature digital wide screen projection, hyper acoustic surround sound, wheelchair access for disabled patrons, air conditioning and hearing aid loops for those with impaired hearing. Come in and enjoy the hand-made choc-tops and freshly cooked popcorn. Check the website for further information.

Grafton NSW

0.0 km away

See Park

Parks and Gardens

See Park - Grafton

Often described as the best park in Grafton, it's a great meeting point for friends and family catch-ups. Featuring a great playground, picnic area, and creek with ducks and a quant little bridge, it is the perfect place to enjoy the view and nature. From October to November, the Jacaranda Trees blossom and light up the park with purple blooms.

Grafton NSW

0.1 km away

Grafton Library Mural

Landmarks and Buildings

Grafton Library Mural

Grafton Library carpark features a mural inspired by the deep Yaegl connections to plants, animals and place. Paying homage to Burugar Wagun (beach turkeys), artist Al Stark was inspired by Dreamtime stories he was told while walking along the coastline. This artwork is a highlight on the Clarence Valley Public Art Trail, a self-guided journey connecting standout public artworks across the region. Be sure to check out the full trail and make it part of your travels through the Clarence Valley.

Grafton NSW

0.1 km away

Purple items

Shopping and Markets

Grafton Handicraft Minimart

Grafton Handicraft Minimart is where you will find Quality hand made goods at reasonable prices. Knitted and crochet goods, including premature and baby wear, handtowels, washers, wooden toys, leather work, tea cosies, pot holders and many useful novelty articles. This shop is run by volunteers and has been operating for over 50 years. Minimart makes annual donations to Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service and Little Wings. So every purchase makes a difference.

Grafton NSW

0.2 km away

Interior

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Grafton Library

Grafton’s Sir Earle Page Library and Education Centre is a modern public space for visitors to Jacaranda City to enjoy. The architecturally designed building offers far more than just books. The Grafton Library Exhibition Space on the ground floor provides an annual free exhibition program in a contemporary gallery setting. Exhibitions run for two months and feature artworks and installations that celebrate local and library culture and offer a broad selection of visual stories for viewers to explore. The library offers free computer and WIFI access, tech help, secure charging stations, printing facilities, a free newspaper and magazine collection, a children’s library, in-library gaming and a local oral history sound dome and local history collection. If you’re visiting Grafton in a large vehicle, the library’s carpark is an easy and convenient place to park and an easy walk to all attractions, including Grafton Regional Gallery, the Saraton Theatre, Market Square and the shopping centre just across the road. A Clarence Valley tourism hub is located on the ground floor, offering free visitor information. Public toilets are available onsite. If you’re visiting Grafton during the Jacaranda Festival, Grafton Library has the best view in town, with majestic Jacaranda trees right outside the window. Why not charge up your phone for free while you’re at the library before heading back out to take your selfies.

Grafton NSW

0.2 km away

Grafton Prince Street Planter Box Trail

Landmarks and Buildings

Grafton's Prince Street Planter Box Trail

What is the collective noun for planter boxes? Who knows but Grafton's Prince Street could be up for a record in the number assembled in one place. And these are no ordinary planter boxes. 30 distinctive artworks painted by local artists, each revealing a different aspect of life in the Clarence Valley. Each box not only hosts an array of greenery and edible plants to harvest, but the boxes are also literally works of art. So what are you waiting for? Your planter box pilgrimage starts here. This artwork is a highlight on the Clarence Valley Public Art Trail, a self-guided journey connecting standout public artworks across the region. Be sure to check out the full trail and make it part of your travels through the Clarence Valley.

Grafton NSW

0.2 km away

Clocktower Gallery Grafton

Shopping and Markets

Clocktower Gallery

A large group of dedicated local arts and craft people making quality handmade goods and unique art. Established for over 12 years. All items in the Gallery are for sale and when people come and visit, they can take away items they know have been lovingly hand made. From beautiful leather belts and bound book covers to crochet and knitted items like beanies and scarfs. The arts and craft available from the Clocktower Gallery are endless. If you cant see it in store, ask and they are sure they know someone who can make it!

Grafton NSW

0.3 km away

Grafton Shoppingworld Entrance

Shopping and Markets

Grafton Shoppingworld

Grafton Shoppingworld strives to be the hub of the community and is renowned for their emphasis on shopper comfort, cleanliness and security ensuring a safe and enjoyable shopping experience seven days a week. Grafton Shoppingworld provides you with many facilities including free Wifi, two state-of-the-art Parents Rooms, Mobility Services including complimentary wheelchair hire, a Lift for Upper-Level access, and disabled bathroom facilities. Grafton Shoppingworld boasts free parking for over 1000 patrons, with 850 undercover spaces including disabled and parents with prams. With over 80 stores and speciality retailers, including Big W, Dan Murphy's, Fresh & Save, Target and Woolworths plus The Reject Shop, Forty Winks and 24-hour Jetts Fitness. Grafton Shoppingworld features a 400 seat Food Court including KFC, Subway plus many cafes for your caffeine fix. Their outdoor dining precinct The Courtyard offers Thai and Japanese cuisine. Grafton Shoppingworld supports the community through in-centre fundraising and includes Events, School Holiday Entertainment and Workshops for all ages. Find out now What's On at Grafton Shoppingworld on their website.

Grafton NSW

0.3 km away

Christ Church Cathedral Grafton

Landmarks and Buildings

Christ Church Cathedral Grafton

Christ Church Cathedral is the parish church for Anglicans on the north side of Grafton, and its origins go back to 1842 when a small wooden church was erected on the site. Now the Cathedral is a landmark in Grafton's city and attracts visitors from far and wide every day. A natural green space in the heart of the Central Business District and government precinct, the Cathedral offers a place for quiet and peaceful reflection where people of all faiths and people of no faith are welcome. The precinct includes the historical Cathedral and Hunt Hall, two nineteenth-century cottages, a book shop and an OpShop. The cathedral Bookshop hosts periodic exhibitions of coins, manuscripts and other historical materials.

Grafton NSW

0.4 km away

Entrance

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Grafton Regional Gallery

Grafton Regional Gallery (GRG) is one of NSW's leading contemporary public galleries, delivering a vibrant program of events and public programs, and bringing showstopping exhibitions to the region. Grafton Regional Gallery is also home to the Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award (JADA), the nation's richest regional drawing prize. The JADA attracts entries from major artists across Australia, celebrating contemporary Australian drawing at its finest. Grafton Regional Gallery brings high-profile exhibitions, such as the Archibald and Wynne Prizes to the region, as well as in-house curated exhibitions showcasing the strength and vibrancy of regional artists in NSW. Shop for artisan gifts in The Gallery Store, stroll through the sculpture garden and don't forget to snap a photo on Grafton's iconic big purple chair!

Grafton NSW

0.4 km away

Grafton Waterfront Precinct

Natural Attractions

Grafton Waterfront Precinct

Take a walk along the Grafton Waterfront Precinct located on the beautiful Clarence River. This 700 metre addition to the riverbank includes accessible footpaths along the water's edge, a new jetty, and access down the levee as well as plenty of shade, seating and lighting. Suitable for wheelchairs and prams, this pathway runs from Memorial Park to Clarence St and Salty Seller Reserve.

Grafton NSW

0.6 km away

Jacaranda Park

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Jacaranda Park

Welcome to one of the largest inclusive play-spaces in Australia! Having had a major revamp at the beginning of 2020, this new space is ready for families of all ages and abilities to enjoy. Split into three play areas, each section is inspired by the region’s natural environment. The Coastal Beaches play zone is designed for younger children, this play ship is fully accessible with a ramp that adjoins the nearby concrete pathway. Everyone can play together, even parents that use a wheelchair can get on board! The Sandstone Country play zone is targeted at older children and represents the forests that surround the Clarence Valley. Children can climb a rope staircase to reach playhouses high at the top of the tower with a large spiral tube slide to ride all the way back down! The Floodplain play zone is for all children and features a diverse range of play activities and natural play elements, including bridges, a water pump, dry creek bed, stepping stones, balancing equipment and sensory play items. Jacaranda Park is a fenced playground that also includes a buddy bench, barbecues and a picnic shelter, park furniture, yarning circle, shade, drinking water station and a public toilet. You can spend an hour or two or three or four and don't forget to bring a picnic!

Grafton NSW

0.7 km away

Clarence River

Natural Attractions

Clarence River

From kayaking rapids in the rugged highlands of the upper Clarence, sailing, boating, or even water skiing the wide open body of the river, to surfing the golden beaches of Yamba, the Clarence River has got you covered. The Clarence River, which just happens to be the largest river on the eastern seaboard (fun fact), winds through deep ravines and broad plains, ancient forests, lush farmland, sleepy villages and 100 chartered islands. The creation of the Giant Serpent has a great meaning to the local Goorie people. With the river flowing through the lands of the three tribes; Bundjalung to the northwest, Gumbayngirr to the southeast and Yaegl towards the mouth of the river. If you are a landlover, there are many access points along its banks, towns and villages along its length. To really experience it bring or hire a boat, hire a houseboat or if you are really keen, why not try paddling its length. So if you are visiting the Clarence Valley be sure to dust off your wet water gear and discover the Mighty Clarence River!

Grafton NSW

0.8 km away

Schaeffer House Museum Grafton — Image credit: John Warrell

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Schaeffer House Museum Grafton

Schaeffer House, which houses a Museum and Research Room on the northern rivers NSW, is the headquarters of the Clarence River Historical Society. The homestead was built by the son of a pioneer German family, Grafton's first architect, Mr F.W.C. Schaeffer, between 1901 and 1903. The society was formed in 1931 and is the oldest country historical society in New South Wales. Schaeffer House displays beautiful china, glassware and furniture presented to the society over the years. Take note of the beautiful painting of Dalmorton hanging in the main dining room. The quality of the exhibits and the magnificent building ensure a most satisfying experience. A great deal of historic information on the Clarence and its people can be found at the Clarence River Historical Society.

Grafton NSW

0.8 km away

Grafton Bridge spanning the Clarence River — Image credit: My Clarence Valley

Landmarks and Buildings

Grafton Bendy Bridge

Ever driven over a bendy bridge? How about catching a train across one or better, walked? Then you should put this mind-bending piece of Australian architecture on your list. Spanning the Clarence River and joining the townships of Grafton and South Grafton since 1932, the Grafton 'Bendy' Bridge is something to experience. Perched high above the Clarence River the bridge can be crossed on foot on both sides of the train line which travels beneath the two-way road above. One of the most photographed landscapes in Grafton, the bridge is renowned for 'wowing' those who come to see it in the early mornings and the late afternoons as the sun rises and sets to the west over the mighty Clarence River. You can access the walkway from Bridge Lane starting at the Grafton Railway Station in South Grafton or Kent Street, Grafton. Walk one side of the bridge and then come back to the other. You will also get to see some local artwork on the bridge, but they're going to keep that secret for those who make the trip.

Grafton NSW

1.0 km away

Grafton Bridge Art Precinct edit

Landmarks and Buildings

Grafton Bridge Art Precinct

The heritage-listed "Bendy Bridge" is the backdrop to the Grafton Bridge Art Precinct. This lovely outdoor gallery evolves with time, fueled by the dedication of street artists and local projects that embrace various perspectives and inspirations. Exploring the Grafton Bridge will uncover a plethora of captivating artworks by both local talents and visiting artists. Notably, there is a mural by the esteemed Blak Douglas, the winner of the 2022 Archibald Prize, in collaboration with fellow artist Jason Wing, located beneath the Balun Bindarray Bridge.

Grafton NSW

1.1 km away

Fig Tree Avenue, Grafton — Image credit: My Clarence Valley

Natural Attractions

Fig Tree Avenue

Fig Street Avenue on Breimba Street in Grafton, as the name suggests, is magnificently lined with Fig trees. The street is a stunning display and should not be missed. Take a walk or a bike ride through the shaded archway and you’ll see what they mean! As most people know, Grafton is known for its famous streets of Jacaranda trees which explode Grafton into a haze of purple beauty each Spring. Fig Tree Avenue is just another reason to visit Grafton all year round. This magnificent avenue of 17 giant fig trees, which extend along both sides of the street is a National Trust-listed site. The trees meet in the middle some 20-30 metres above the road, forming an arch of impressive proportions. Make sure to bring your camera!

Grafton NSW

1.1 km away

Historical Grafton Post Office

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Grafton Heritage Trail

Grafton, the Jacaranda City, is blessed with broad avenues, magnificent architecture and spectacular purple flowering jacaranda trees. Walking or cycling along their streets gives visitors the opportunity to absorb and 'feel' Grafton's heritage and history in an appropriately quiet and reflective manner. Grafton's famous Bendy Bridge, built in 1932, has a walkway which is a wonderful way to experience the mighty Clarence River, especially at sundown. Grafton was the early centre of development in the Clarence Valley, being gazetted as a municipality in 1859 and declared a city in 1885. Many buildings have been classified by the National Trust, including the notorious Grafton Gaol and the Christ Church Cathedral. Pick up your free Grafton Heritage Trail brochure at the Visitor Information Hub at Grafton Regional Gallery

South Grafton NSW

1.3 km away

South Grafton Levee Public Artwork — Image credit: Chloe Van Dorp

Landmarks and Buildings

South Grafton Levee Public Artwork

"This is us: Listen to what we show you" speaks of community and connection—connection to the past, this place, the river, and each other. Created and curated by local artist Deborah Taylor, this artwork is set against the beautiful Berinbah/Brerimba Bindarray (Clarence River), which is inextricably intertwined into the very fabric of this town and community. Taylor's river motifs run the length of the artwork, reflecting the river's huge presence. The vibrant blues amplify the setting's natural beauty, bringing joy and positivity back into the space. Artist Deborah Taylor, Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung with designs applied by Kade Valja. This artwork is part of the Clarence Valley Public Street Art Trail.

South Grafton NSW

1.4 km away

Playground

Parks and Gardens

Alex Bell Park- Pirate Park

Alex Bell Park is a pirate-inspired park, set up to bring some whimsy for the kids and help their imaginations run wild. With a pirate ship, stepping stones, basket swings, a pirate-themed climbing set, and musical play equipment to inspire, this is the place to stop and enjoy some fresh air and excitement with the family. The playground, mature shade trees and park facilities make this park popular for picnics and family gatherings in South Grafton.

South Grafton NSW

1.5 km away

South Grafton Emporium — Image credit: Irene HYward

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Trend Art Designs

Trend Art Designs is a creative art gallery and eclectic retail shop located in the historic South Grafton Emporium building in NSW. It is owned and operated by artist Irene Hayward. Visitors will find original artworks, handmade pieces, and a wide range of unique and carefully crafted gift ideas. The space features colourful paintings, art glass, pottery, jewellery, home décor, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Every piece is selected or created with character and individuality. Nothing feels mass-produced. The gallery changes often, giving visitors something new to discover each time. Trend Art Designs also offers ArtGlass workshops and Pottery classes. These sessions allow people to learn, create, and experience hands-on art in a relaxed setting. They suit beginners and hobbyists looking to explore their creativity. What makes the business unique is its blend of art, craftsmanship, and personal expression. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and full of inspiration. Trend Art Designs is a place to browse, shop, learn, and enjoy creativity under one charming historic roof.

South Grafton NSW

1.5 km away

Front view of shop

Shopping and Markets

B and L Creation's

B and L Creation's Fabric and Gifts is located in an 1890s building in the heart of South Grafton's heritage-listed shopping village. Selling new fabric and haberdashery items as well as finished handmade goods. Situated in the Northern Rivers area on the beautiful North Coast of NSW, South Grafton is on the southern bank of the Clarence River at Grafton. It is an easy 45-minute drive north of Coffs Harbour or a one and a half hour drive south of Ballina.

South Grafton NSW

1.5 km away

Bunker Distillery Cellar Door and Bar Grafton — Image credit: Bunker Distillery Australia

Entertainment Venues

Bunker Distillery

The Bunker Distillery Cellar Door Experience is an immersive craft spirits experience that invites visitors to explore, taste and create. Located in the historic Old Tooheys Beer Factory, the cellar door blends industrial heritage with a premium, relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy guided tastings of Bunker's award-winning spirits, learn about the distilling process, and experience the unique "Build Your Own Bottle" experience, where visitors create and seal their own personalised bottle of spirits to take home. The venue also features a premium cocktail bar, showcasing expertly crafted cocktails made with Bunker's spirits. More than just a bar, the Bunker Distillery Cellar Door is designed as a destination where locals and travellers can discover Australian craft spirits, enjoy a memorable tasting experience and connect with the story behind the brand.

Grafton NSW

2.1 km away

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