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Louth Post Office

Landmarks and Buildings

Louth Post Office

The establishment of a post office was requested in a petition to the Postmaster-General on 31st December 1860. Thomas Mathews was nominated as postmaster. A post office had been opened in Wilcannia in 1860, and at Bourke in 1862. The Louth post office was established on 1st March 1869, in charge of Thomas Mathews, an innkeeper. Due to insufficient postal business (five letters per week), the Louth post office was closed on 1st July 1871. For more information regarding the history of Louth, visit the VisitBourke website.

Louth NSW

0.0 km away

Mary Mathews Monument

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Mary Mathews Monument

Louth is the site of an amazing and emotive structure known as 'The Celtic Cross'. The Cross is a seven-metre (24-foot) polished granite cross that dominates the cemetery on the hill overlooking the town. It was constructed by the founder of Louth, Thomas Mathews, who erected the monument as a perpetual memorial to his wife, Mary Mathews, who died in 1866. Every year on the anniversary of her death, August 19, the sun reflects from the Celtic Cross to the front door - the spot where their house, The Retreat, once stood. Anyone visiting Louth can observe the occurrence, and the locals have thoughtfully marked the places where visitors can experience the three-minute light show. The monument is not only a testament to the love and devotion of a husband for his wife but also to the accuracy of navigation technology of the 1800s. Its alignment was reportedly aided by one of the riverboat captains of the Darling River. Anyone visiting Louth can observe the occurrence, and the locals have thoughtfully marked the places where visitors can experience the three-minute light show. In 1866 Thomas Mathews purchased 200 acres, of which 40 acres were divided up into house blocks along the Darling River. He also built a bonded store where goods could be stored. Around this time, he became known as the 'King of Louth'.

Louth NSW

0.5 km away

Historic Dunlop Station

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Historic Dunlop Station

The property "Dunlop", is the 881-hectare (2177 acres) homestead block of the former eponymous station which, in its heyday a century ago, sprawled over nearly 400,000 hectares (one million acres). Today, the Darling River station is owned by the Chandler family, who are working to preserve and restore the property to its original state. Kim offers tours of Dunlop Station from Tuesday to Sunday. Morning tea begins from 11am, which is all home made by Kim every day! Tours commence from 11:30 (for roughly 2.5 hours), which take you through the Dunlop homestead and store. Everyone is welcome to attend, but bookings are essential.

Louth NSW

14 km away

Warrego Floodplain walking track, Toorale National Park — Image credit: DPIE

Natural Attractions

Warrego Floodplain walking track

The short, easy Warrego Floodplain walking track offers lookout views of the vast floodplain, birdwatching and seasonal wildflowers, in Toorale National Park, south of Bourke. Take a stroll through the vast Warrego Floodplain of Outback NSW on this short, accessible walk. Starting from Warrego Floodplain picnic area (Wariku Pulka), the wide dirt track passes through an avenue of shady coolabah trees to the sheltered Warrego Floodplain lookout. The lookout is a great spot to take in views across the expansive floodplain. Time your visit for March to October, when temperatures are cooler and summer rainfall has made the landscape come alive with wildflowers, and waterbirds flock to the floodplain. Birdwatchers and keen photographers will enjoy spotting brolgas, bustards, cormorants, pelicans and spoonbills. Keep an eye out for sand goannas, kangaroos, emus and shingleback lizards (known locally as bogeyes). Sand ridges and clay depressions are home to an array of native plants and animals. After your walk, enjoy lunch at the picnic area then head to Toorale Homestead precinct (Yarramarra), or explore further along Warrego Floodplain Drive (Wampa-wampa Wariku Pulka).

Louth NSW

18 km away

Mount Talowla lookout

Natural Attractions

Mount Talowla lookout

Mount Talowla lookout has sweeping 360-degree views across Toorale National Park and State Conservation Area, and beyond. This site is known by local Kurnu-Baakandji People as Withawitha Iaana. This exceptional vantage point provides intrepid travellers and first-time visitors with a great introduction to the vast outback landscape of north-west NSW, near Bourke. The lookout offers a great spot for birdwatching, so be sure to bring along your binoculars for a chance to see wedge-tailed eagles soaring above. In spring, the fluffy yellow heads of foxtail flowers peep above the drying grass tussocks. At the summit, dotted mulga trees show off their yellow flowers in winter months. Gaze across to Dunlop Range in the south and Mount Gunderbooka in the east, as well as the seemingly never-ending western floodplains. Lines of trees in the distance indicate the path of ephemeral waterways.

Louth NSW

21 km away

Toorale National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Toorale National Park

Experience an outback adventure at Toorale National Park and State Conservation Area (SCA). Awe-inspiring skies, dramatic sunsets and starry nights under Australian floodplain landscapes are just a few things you can enjoy while riverside camping at Darling River campground (Yapara Paaka Thuru). Picnic by the river bank to the sight and sound of birds at Many Big Rocks picnic area (Karnu Yalpa). Best visited between April and November, few places offer the rare opportunity to see the floodplain landscape come to life after rain like Toorale National Park and SCA. Located at the junction of Warrego and Darling rivers, the seasonal wetlands offer an abundance of birdlife, with ibis, pelicans, as well as iconic brolgas. This park lies within the traditional lands of Kurnu-Baakandji People. You can learn about their culture as well as the historic significance of this region on a Discovery tour. It's the perfect addition to an outback tour, taking in neighbouring parks such as Gundabooka National Park.

Gumbalie NSW

38 km away

Toorale Homestead precinct (Yarramarra) — Image credit: Shared OEH and photographer

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Toorale Homestead precinct (Yarramarra)

Visit Toorale National Park, and you'll realise there's nowhere else quite like it. It's an important spiritual and cultural region for the Kurnu-Baakandji People. The Traditional Owners have continued their connection by living and working at Toorale station over its long history. Take a self-guided tour of Toorale Homestead precinct (Yarramarra). You'll be fascinated by the grandeur of the homestead and its outbuildings. History buffs will enjoy the stories of Toorale's past. In the late 1880s the station was the calm centre of a thriving sheep and cattle empire. It's a good idea to visit during the cooler months between April and September. You can plan some extra sightseeing and a walk in the area. Nearby attractions include Mount Talowla walking track (Thina Yapa) and lookout (Withawithalaana). Rest under the shade of red river gums at Many Big Rocks picnic area (Karnu Yalpa) and Darling River campground (Yapara Paaka Thuru). Soak up the peaceful surrounds as you take in the vast floodplains, red sand hills and gigantic sky. You might see sand goannas, bearded dragons and emus during the day, and crucifix frogs, owls and western grey or red kangaroos by...

Gumbalie NSW

38 km away

Many Big Rocks picnic area (Karnu Yalpa)

Natural Attractions

Many Big Rocks picnic area (Karnu Yalpa)

Many Big Rocks picnic area (Karnu Yalpa) is a tranquil stop along the Darling River driving route. Enjoy a picnic lunch by a bend in the river, under the coolibah trees and river red gums. Spend some time fishing from the riverbank or natural rock weir to see if the yellow belly or cod are biting. Stretch your legs with a walk along the water's edge to catch a glimpse of waterbirds like cormorants and spoonbills. Chances are you'll also spot emus, kangaroos bouncing around, or a wedge-tailed eagle soaring above. After your break, you'll be ready to continue exploring Toorale National Park. Visit Toorale Homestead to see the outback's pastoral history, or learn about the Kurnu-Baakandji People and their strong connection to these lands. At Mount Talowla lookout you'll be greeted with vast outback views of the floodplains, and seasonal wildflowers, stretching towards Mount Gunderbooka. At the end of the day, the basic Darling River campground (Yapara Paaka Thuru) is located 500m from the picnic area. You can also camp, or stay at an old homestead or shearer's quarters, in Gundabooka National Park. The best times to visit are during...

Gunderbooka NSW

51 km away

Valley of the Eagles Walk — Image credit: Photo: David Finnegan

Natural Attractions

Valley of the Eagles Walk

If you're heading to Gundabooka National Park, put on your walking shoes and explore Valley of the Eagles walk. You'll be rewarded with breath taking views of the rugged Mount Gunderbooka, which rises 500 metres above the park. Pleasure walkers might like to start with the easy path to the base of the mountain, where you'll find a viewing platform perfect for taking pictures in the golden afternoon light. This short stroll is one kilometre return, and should take you no more than an hour. From the viewing platform, the track to the summit is sure to get your heart pumping, but you'll be rewarded with sweeping 360 degree views of Gundabooka National Park. This is a difficult 5.7 kilometre return walk over rocky and very steep terrain, and should only be taken by fit walkers. Tread quietly while you walk – you’re likely to see and hear a range of birdlife on this lovely walk. And if you’re lucky you might even see a pink cockatoo, so keep your eyes peeled.

Gunderbooka NSW

55 km away

Bennetts Gorge picnic area

Natural Attractions

Bennetts Gorge picnic area

Located on the western side of Mt Gunderbooka, just 50km from Bourke, Bennetts Gorge picnic area is a great place for a picnic lunch or barbecue. The picnic area is also wonderful for birdwatching - keep your eyes open for the hooded robin and the diamond firetail. There's easy access to the Valley of the Eagles walk from Bennetts Gorge picnic area, so when you've polished off your picnic lunch be sure to set off. The walk takes you to the base of Mt Gunderbooka. Take a virtual tour of Bennetts Gorge picnic area captured with Google Street View Trekker.

Gunderbooka NSW

55 km away

Little Mountain Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: David Finnegan

Natural Attractions

Little Mountain Walking Track

The picturesque Little Mountain walking track runs from Dry Tank campground to Little Mountain lookout in Gundabooka National Park, near Bourke. It's hard not to be moved by the beauty and tranquility of the bush as you amble along this red-soil track. Keep your camera handy to snap a few photos as you're likely to encounter kangaroos, emus and reptiles on this easy walk. Plus, if you enjoy birdwatching, you'll certainly be kept busy spotting finches, robins and mallee ring-necks. The spring and autumn seasons are ideal for venturing through Little Mountain walking track, and it's a great nature walk to share with the kids. The colourful wildflower displays will surprise you, and you'll discover some interesting facts about the area if you take time to read the informative signage along the way. Follow this walking track through wild mulga woodland, watching as the magnificent Gunderbooka Range rises up from the plains.The lookout at the end offers scenic views of the range’s entire northern escarpment, and is particularly beautiful at sunset.

Gunderbooka NSW

57 km away

Dry Tank picnic area

Natural Attractions

Dry Tank picnic area

Dry Tank picnic area is a great place to stop for lunch in Gundabooka National Park. Enjoy the peaceful setting of rugged red earth and eucalypts as you enjoy your picnic lunch. If you’re feeling energetic before or after your picnic, you can take the walk to Little Mountain. Some might find it a bit challenging, however the views from the summit are stunning – you’ll be able to see the entire northern escarpment of the Gundabooka Range.

Gunderbooka NSW

58 km away

Gundabooka National Park

Natural Attractions

Gundabooka National Park

Visit Gundabooka National Park and State Conservation Area, near Bourke in outback New South Wales to see the imposing Mount Gunderbooka, go camping in the outback and see Aboriginal rock art. Gundabooka National Park and State Conservation Area is a vast area rich in Aboriginal and European heritage that stretches from the banks of the Darling River, across the plains and over Mount Gunderbooka. The park, featuring woodlands, floodplains, sandhills and the rugged Mount Gunderbooka that rises 500m above the park, is of great significance to the local Ngemba Aboriginal people. Be sure to take Mulgowan (Yappa) Aboriginal Art Site walking track to see some ancient Aboriginal rock art up close. You’ll find the striking sight of weathered red soils against bright blue skies makes for excellent landscape photography, and you’re bound to see a range of birdlife along the park’s walking tracks. There are great places for camping, including sites for caravans, motorhomes and tents, or you can stay in the historic Redbank Homestead or Shearers’ Quarters.

Gunderbooka NSW

59 km away

Mulgowan (Yappa) Aboriginal Art Site Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: David Finnegan/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Mulgowan (Yappa) Aboriginal Art Site Walking Track

For an outback adventure that’s bound to inspire, head for Mulgowan (Yappa) Aboriginal Art site walking track in Gundabooka National Park, near Bourke. Be amazed by the fascinating Aboriginal rock art of the Ngemba and Paakandji people, set amongst unspoilt bushland. It’s an unforgettable ‘off the beaten track’ experience for all ages. Following this challenging yet rewarding walking track along encompassing boulders, you might see hooded robins and pink cockatoos. Arriving at the enormous rock overhang, you’ll discover unique Aboriginal rock paintings that not only depict animal motifs, but dancers, hand stencils and hunting tools. The surrounding Gunderbooka Range and Mulareenya Creek is a significant area where ceremonies were held and the echoes of a vibrant Aboriginal culture can still be felt. Take your time to soak up the tranquil setting before retracing your steps. If you’re keen to explore, try Bennetts Gorge picnic area walk or pitch your tent beneath the vast desert sky at Dry Tank campground or Yanda campground.

Gunderbooka NSW

68 km away

Tilpa Hotel

Entertainment Venues

Tilpa Hotel

Established in 1894, Tilpa Hotel is considered one of the last remaining true bush pubs in Australia. Grown from a river boat trade along the Darling River, the hotel/pub is the heart of Tilpa and a favourite attraction to both travellers and locals. Accommodation is available for those hoping to stay, simply book in on arrival or call during their open hours to ensure availability.

Tilpa NSW

80 km away

Ngiyampaa Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Ngiyampaa Walking Track

It’s worth the extra effort to hike along the range to the summit of Mount Grenfell, where you’ll find Choy trig station on Ngiyampaa walking track. There are expansive scenic views from the top across this otherwise flat landscape, and along the way are opportunities to see unusual rock formations and mallee trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a rocky lookout point at the top. The vast, arid country you can see out there is the traditional land of Ngiyampaa Wangaaypuwan people, who have a long and enduring relationship with this place. While you're walking, keep an eye out for red and grey kangaroos. Emus still pace the land like prehistoric sentinels and you'll see them recorded in the rock art on the way to this track. When the weather’s warmer, geckos, snakes, shinglebacks and bearded dragons will emerge to soak up the sun. Keep your binoculars handy for birdwatching.

Cubba NSW

87 km away

Mount Grenfell Art Site Walk — Image credit: Photo: NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Mount Grenfell Art Site Walk

On the rocky overhangs of Mount Grenfell art site walk are human figures, animals, medicine, waterways, land, and Dreaming stories depicted in red, yellow, and ochre pigment, applied with a finger or brush. Ochres come from naturally tinted clay and are some of the earliest pigments used by humans. You’ll also see stencils created by blowing a mouthful of pigment over a hand held against the rock face. It’s only a short, easy walk to view three galleries of this spectacular Aboriginal rock art, which have been layered upon each other over time. The site holds particular significance for Ngiyampaa People, who are traditional owners of this land. Take your time on this walking route past mallee and cypress pines. Sit and listen to birdcalls, and imagine people gathering here at this meeting place from the surrounding area to talk, laugh, argue, pass on knowledge, record information and take part in ceremonies.

Cubba NSW

87 km away

Mount Grenfell Historic Site — Image credit: Destination NSW - 157691

Natural Attractions

Mount Grenfell Historic Site

Mount Grenfell Historic Site in Cubba protects Ngiyampaa rock art. It’s a short walk to this important Aboriginal site, and a more challenging one to a scenic lookout. For thousands of years before Europeans settled in this part of NSW, Ngiyampaa people regularly gathered around the semi-permanent waterhole and took shelter in the overhangs of what is now Mount Grenfell Historic Site. In the surrounding rocky ridge, you can see richly coloured paintings of human and animal figures, representations of the natural environment, and hand stencils which are of ceremonial significance to traditional owners. Nowadays, this extensive Aboriginal rock art is protected within the park and can be reached following the short, easy Mount Grenfell art site walk. Another more challenging hiking trail, Ngiyambaa walking track, takes you further into this gorgeous landscape of red dirt, mallee bushland, open grasslands and the rocky rise of Mount Grenfell itself. The scenic view from the summit, across this low-relief plain, is vast and wide.

Cubba NSW

87 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

89 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

90 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

92 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

92 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

93 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

93 km away

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