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Dunggir National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Dunggir National Park

Dunggir is the Gumbaynggirr word for koala,' which tells you a great deal about what sort of national park this is one with deep Aboriginal roots and precious native habitat. Indeed, the connection of Dunggir National Park to its traditional owners runs back countless generations; there are many sites of spiritual significance scattered throughout the rugged ridges of the landscape, and Gumbaynggirr People still visit them today for bush foods and medicine. There are also at least twelve threatened animal species (including koalas and yellow-bellied gliders), 400 native plants, and three types of rainforest, though Dunggir is otherwise a low-key sort of place. It's great for hiking and for visitors looking for a quiet picnic spot. A place of spectacular extremes, the park offers a stunning forest drive past tallow woods and ironbarks, and a must-see scenic lookout with wide views over the Nambucca Valley all the way to the coast. Not to mention some of the best birdwatching opportunities in the region.

South Arm NSW

9.2 km away

Kosekai lookout

Natural Attractions

Kosekai lookout

Dunggir National Park is blessed with a rugged terrain of steep rainforest ravines and ridges of soaring eucalyptus trees. Kosekai lookout is one of the best places to appreciate the raw beauty of the place. Perched right near the edge of a major drop, visitors will find a generous panorama over the Nambucca Valley all the way to the NSW coast more than 30km away. Several peaks are plainly visible too, including the impressive Mount Yarrahapinni rising in the distance. This scenic lookout is good to visit at any time of year, with flowers blooming in the spring. But for particularly crisp views, schedule a stop in winter. Be sure to bring binoculars for birdwatching: rainforest pigeons like the wompoo fruit dove roost in the area. To stretch out your visit into the afternoon, consider packing lunch, particularly in the warmer months. Supplied picnic tables offer a tantalising reason to settle down with the family and enjoy the stellar view for a little longer.

South Arm NSW

9.3 km away

The Farm Hole

Entertainment Venues

Bowraville Sports Hub

Discover one of the Nambucca Valley's best-kept secrets at the Bowraville Sports Hub. Nestled in a picturesque hinterland setting, our venue offers a fantastic, relaxed sporting experience for players of all ages and skill levels, making it a must-visit destination for traveling golfers and holidaymakers. Challenge yourself on their fantastic 9 hole golf course, featuring lush fairways, testing greens, and stunning rural vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the Mid North Coast. They also have an indoor Golf Simulator, so whether you're after some hard data to improve your game, or just want to have a hit during bad weather, they always have an option for golfers here. If a more casual pace is your style, gather your family and friends for a fun afternoon of social lawn bowls or barefoot bowls on our undercover greens or out in the sun. Rain, hail or shine, you can always have a roll at The Hub. They offer affordable green fees, golf cart hire, and equipment rental to ensure you have everything you need for a great day out. Whether you are a seasoned low-handicapper looking for a quick nine holes or a family looking for a fun holiday activity, a warm welcome awaits you at Bowraville.

Bowraville NSW

11 km away

Bowraville's Children's Playground is shaded and surrounded by gardens — Image credit: Nambucca Valley Council

Parks and Gardens

Bowraville Children's Playground

Come and explore the Bowraville Children's Playground and Hennessey Tape Oval, a sports and recreation precinct in Bowraville. The playground includes active play equipment for different ages and abilities, including accessible swings, a wheelchair-accessible spinner, and a climbing tower, as well as imaginative play elements such as percussion instruments and quiet areas. Rubber soft fall is used around the equipment for safety. It's inclusive by design, built for every age and ability to find their own kind of adventure. Beyond the playground, the precinct opens up further: a skate park and BMX track for those chasing a bit of speed, football fields and a clubhouse, basketball and netball courts, and a creek-side picnic area for refuelling between rounds. The precinct also offers BBQs and picnic shelters, and connecting pathways link the various facilities together. Whatever brings you to Bowraville, this precinct gives you plenty to get into.

Bowraville NSW

11 km away

1965 Freedom Ride Blue Plaque Trail in Bowraville — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

1965 Freedom Ride Blue Plaque Trail - Bowraville

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 the 1965 Freedom Ride where a group of university students journey on a bus through country New South Wales to expose and challenge discrimination faced by Aboriginal people. The 1965 Freedom Ride Blue Plaque Trail stops at 8 significant locations along the original 1965 Freedom Ride bus route.

Bowraville NSW

11 km away

Bowraville Theatre — Image credit: Nambucca Valley Council

Entertainment Venues

Bowraville Theatre

A true cultural gem, Bowraville Theatre is one of regional Australia's premier live music venues. Housed in a beautifully restored 1940s Art Deco cinema, the theatre has built a national reputation for attracting acclaimed Australian musicians and performers. From folk, blues and country to jazz, classical and contemporary acts, its intimate atmosphere and outstanding acoustics create an unforgettable live music experience that draws audiences from across the Mid North Coast and beyond. The theatre is also home to the Bowraville Theatre Singers and Valley Writers, nurturing local creativity through regular performances, workshops and events. Alongside its vibrant arts program, it continues its tradition as a working cinema, screening the latest releases, classics and special film events throughout the year. Outside, a Blue Plaque Heritage marker commemorates Bowraville's significant place in Australia's civil rights history. In 1965, the Freedom Riders, led by Charles Perkins, challenged racial segregation by attempting to "gatecrash" the cinema in protest against discriminatory ticketing and seating practices imposed on Aboriginal people. The plaque recognises this pivotal moment in the fight for equality and honours the courage of those who stood against injustice. Whether you're catching a sold-out concert, enjoying a movie or exploring Australia's social history, Bowraville Theatre delivers a rich and memorable cultural experience.

Bowraville NSW

11 km away

Bowraville Folk Museum — Image credit: Nambucca Valley Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bowraville Folk Museum

Step back in time at the Bowraville Folk Museum, where thousands of fascinating artefacts bring the region's rich history to life. Wander through beautifully restored heritage buildings, including a pioneer church, blacksmith's shop and saddlery, while exploring captivating collections of vintage clothing, furniture, vehicles, photography, domestic wares and more. With engaging indoor and outdoor displays, it's a fascinating journey through the people, places and stories that shaped the Nambucca Valley.

Bowraville NSW

11 km away

Phoenix Gallery on Sunset — Image credit: Nambucca Valley Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Phoenix Gallery and Cafe

Discover the heart of Bowraville's creative community at Nambucca Valley Phoenix, a vibrant social enterprise where art, food and connection come together. Browse the Phoenix Gallery, featuring locally made artworks, ceramics and handmade gifts, then relax in the welcoming café, which provides inclusive employment opportunities for people with disability. Join a workshop through the School of the Arts, meet local makers and experience a community-driven space where creativity, learning and opportunity flourish. Every visit supports a not-for-profit organisation making a lasting difference in the Nambucca Valley.

Bowraville NSW

11 km away

Frank Partridge VC Military Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Frank Partridge VC Military Museum

A tour of the Frank Partridge VC Military Museum takes you on a journey that leads from the trench warfare of WWI to twenty-first century combat technology. Located in the historic town of Bowraville, its collections cover all of Australia's armed services and its displays of armoury, uniforms, medals, vehicles, art, publications and memorabilia are the largest on the Mid North Coast. It is a must-see exhibition that brings visitors up close with those who have served Australia since before the days when ANZAC became part of their language. Admission is by gold coin donation.

Bowraville NSW

11 km away

Macksville Bridge Lights Up at Night — Image credit: Nambucca Valley Visitor Information Centre

Landmarks and Buildings

Macksville Bridge Lights

As night falls, the Macksville Bridge comes alive in a vibrant display of ever-changing colours, reflecting across the Nambucca River. Paired with the enchanting fairy-lit Gumbaynggirr fig trees lining the foreshore, the illuminated riverfront transforms into a magical evening destination. Whether you're taking a twilight stroll, capturing the perfect photo or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this dazzling riverside experience is a must-see after dark.

Macksville NSW

19 km away

Welcome to Ember 7 Time, may we take you order? — Image credit: Sara-Jayne Prince

Shopping and Markets

Ember and Time

Ember and Time is Macksville's premier boutique and cafe experience showcasing locally produced wares. Ember and Time is a unique boutique who proudly to sources their wares from local artisans, famers, producers and artisans to give all the regions visitor curated experience of the talent the Nambucca valley has to offer.

Macksville NSW

19 km away

Art

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Wallace Lane Murals – Macksville

Tucked between Macksville's bustling main street and the picturesque Nambucca River, Wallace Lane has been transformed into a vibrant open-air gallery. Large-scale murals celebrate the region's creativity, history, culture and stories, adding a colourful splash of art to the town centre and making it a must-see stop while exploring Macksville.

Macksville NSW

19 km away

The Artwork represents the Gumbaynggirr Peoples love of the Nambucca River — Image credit: Nambucca Valley Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gumbaynggirr Keeping Place

Step into one of the world's oldest continuing living cultures at the Gumbaynggirr Keeping Place – a place where culture is protected, celebrated and shared for generations to come. Designed in close connection with Nambucca Heads, Bowraville and Unkya Local Aboriginal Land Councils, the Keeping Place will safeguard significant cultural artefacts while honouring the stories, language, music, dance and art that have shaped Gumbaynggirr life since the Dreaming. More than a museum, it is a living cultural centre where knowledge is passed from Elders to younger generations, ensuring traditions continue to thrive. For visitors, the Keeping Place offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Gumbaynggirr culture and its enduring connection to the landscapes of the Mid North Coast. Through immersive storytelling and cultural experiences, discover how language, storylines and Country are inseparable, connecting rivers, mountains, beaches and forests across Gumbaynggirr Country. Known as the "sharing people", the Gumbaynggirr have long welcomed others to learn from the richness of their Country and culture. The Keeping Place continues this tradition, inviting visitors to experience a culture that has endured for tens of thousands of years with respect, curiosity and care. Come to connect with Country, celebrate living culture and gain a deeper appreciation of the stories that continue to shape the Nambucca Valley.

Macksville NSW

19 km away

Indoor Hydrotherapy Pool — Image credit: Maita van Stockum

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Macksville Park and Aquatic and Fitness Centre

Macksville Park and Aquatic and Fitness Centre is a leisure and sports facilities to suit everyone in the family. There is accessible outdoor exercise equipment, a running/walking track, a skate park, a heated Olympic swimming pool with a hoist, a gym, a water slide, wheelchair accessible hydrotherapy pool, tennis, netball, a fenced children's playground, and basketball.

Macksville NSW

19 km away

The Pioneer Cottage — Image credit: Mary Boulton Pioneer Cottage and Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Mary Boulton Pioneer Cottage and Museum

Take a step back in time to encounter items used by Nambucca Valley pioneers and how they lived in the early 19th century. The museum has seven display buildings, full of memorabilia, located in a beautiful garden setting, featuring the pioneer cottage re-built from two separate local cottages - complete with kitchen, bedroom and personal items that pioneers used. The beautiful grounds are available for hire for weddings, naming ceremonies or outdoor meetings. A popular and relaxing venue for the general public and travelling coach tour operators looking for a unique stop for their guests. Coach operators often pair their visit with a home-cooked morning or afternoon tea provided in the gardens (bookings any day of the week). Facilities include all weather parking and toilets- including a hand-railed, spacious, toilet for those not so mobile. This complex is wholly managed and operated by friendly volunteers.

Macksville NSW

21 km away

Dirt Girls at Jacks — Image credit: Grant Hodgins

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Jacks Ridge Mountain Bike Park, Nambucca Heads

Jacks Ridge Mountain Bike Park is located in the Nambucca State Forest just a short drive from the nearby towns of Nambucca Heads and Macksville. The trails are suited to cyclists of all ages and abilities, with six well signposted loops, all starting from the main car park area. These loops, or 'routes' range in difficulty from 'beginner' through to 'intermediate' level riding. A short (400m) kids track is located at the car parking area and is perfect for very young kids. There is a picnic shelter at the car park, as well as accessible toilets and hand washing facilities. The trails are well maintained by dedicated club volunteers, and have A (advanced) and B (alternative) lines over most timber structures and some steeper and more technical sections. Jacks Ridge Mountain Bike Park is free to ride, and the club welcomes new volunteers, and also donations to assist with trail maintenance.

Nambucca Heads NSW

21 km away

School Holidays Day Camp — Image credit: Olivia Forsyth

Agritourism

Salty Acres Equestrian

Tucked away in Allgomera, Salty Acres Equestrian is where horses do what they do best: slow you down and bring you back to yourself. Whether you're after your first riding lesson or your fiftieth, this is a place to build real skills, real confidence, and a real bond with the horse underneath you. The team offers riding lessons for all levels, one-off sessions for visitors just passing through, and school holiday day camps that give kids something to look forward to (and tire them out nicely). There's horse therapy for those needing a gentler kind of connection, and half-hour pony rides for the littlest riders in the family. No pressure, no pretense, just good horses, good people, and the kind of quiet confidence that only comes from time in the saddle.

Allgomera NSW

22 km away

Waterfall Way Scenic Drive — Image credit: Photo: Barbara Webster

Natural Attractions

Waterfall Way Scenic Drive

The 185 kilometre Waterfall Way scenic drive links Coffs harbour and Armidale, passing rainforest, river valleys and waterfalls, including New England and Dorrigo National Parks. You could cover Waterfall Way scenic drive in about two-and-a-half hours, but with so many amazing stops along the way, it could take you all day. Starting at Coffs Harbour, the scenic drive traverses five national parks and winds through lush rainforest, waterfalls, open woodlands and farmland as you approach Armidale. Ebor Falls should not be missed. Two grandiose waterfalls and an amazing scenic walk along the escarpment edge. All this is just a few minutes walk from Ebor Falls car park. The road winds steeply through the lush rainforest of Dorrigo National Park to a height of 750 metres at Dorrigo Mountain. Other highlights of the drive include the granite tors in Cathedral Rock National Park, Point lookout in New England National Park, and the Wollomombi Gorge and Falls picnic area, near Armidale, which has one of the state’s highest drops.

Thora NSW

23 km away

Cycle from Macksville to Nambucca Heads — Image credit: Nambucca Valley Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Macksville - Nambucca Heads Cycleway

Macksville - Nambucca Heads Cycleway (also known as The Watt Creek Cycleway) offers a scenic journey between Macksville and Nambucca Heads, winding through picturesque farmland and alongside the tranquil Nambucca River. Perfect for cycling, running or walking, this shared pathway showcases the Valley's natural beauty while providing a peaceful way to explore the region at your own pace.

Nambucca Heads NSW

23 km away

Looking west along A section of Bellingen Community Markets — Image credit: Kaz Selbie

Shopping and Markets

Bellingen Community Markets

Third Saturday of every month One of Bellingen's best-known market days, set beneath the old-growth trees in Bellingen Park. Browse a wide mix of stalls including local and afar artisans, crafts people, producers and growers, alternative therapies and massage, clothing and recyclers. Live music and spontaneous buskers add to the atmosphere throughout the day and delicious gourmet hot and cold food, drink and coffee if on offer. Proceeds from the market are donated back into the local community.

Bellingen NSW

24 km away

Bellingen Farmers Markets

Shopping and Markets

Bellingen Farmers Market

Every Wednesday afternoon A weekly fresh food market in Bellingen Park, next to the tennis courts. Expect local fruit and vegetables, organic sourdough bread, micro-greens, gourmet mushrooms, tempeh, meats, nourishing snacks, fermented foods, jams, chutneys and medicinal foods, all in a laid-back park setting close to town. Hot and cold beverages are also available whilst enjoying live music. Wheelchair accessible and loads of parking within close walking distance of the market.

Bellingen NSW

24 km away

Bellingen Plant Fair

Shopping and Markets

Bellingen Plant Fair

The Bellingen Plant Fair (BPF) is held twice a year, on the second Saturday of March (Autumn) and September (Spring). This Spring they are gearing up for an awesome day. With nearly 100 stalls set up under the majestic shade trees of Bellingen Park, you will find everything from soil, seeds, plants, pots, flowers, food, tools, and useful information with a focus on natives and being kind to our environment. The Plant Fair would not happen without the help of dedicated volunteers and they are always looking for enthused plant-loving people to help for a couple of hours, so make contact if keen. Taste a smorgasbord of scrumptious food, drinks and coffee, and enjoy live music and a free yoga class with Emma Hohnen. The Bellingen Growers Market with all their fresh produce and homemade goodies will be there, along with organic kids activities, talks on stage and workshops. The BPF values and celebrates a healthy environment, diversity, culture, and community. Gardeners and land caretakers are on a mission to get more beneficial plants in the ground and help our environment thrive. Everyone is welcome to this family friendly event, but sorry, no dogs or cats. For more information go to their website or Facebook.

Bellingen NSW

24 km away

Where coffee brews and greenery grows.

Shopping and Markets

Habitat Nursery & Coffee House

A cozy, lush escape nestled in an iconic old service station on Main Street—once the workshop of the legendary Mr. Carl J Foster. Ask any local who's been here more than a decade, and you're bound to hear a fond story about Carl, who worked tirelessly well into his 80s. Inside, browse a carefully curated range of indoor plants, gifts, pots, crystals, and more. They pride themselves on knowledgeable plant advice and their commitment to sourcing from local, environmentally conscious suppliers. Today, Habitat carries on that spirit of warmth and care. Surrounded by greenery, it's a welcoming space where plant lovers, coffee drinkers, families, and furry friends come together. Enjoy a cup of delicious Single O coffee or Prana Chai under the covered seating area, surrounded by tropical foliage. Our menu includes smoothies and a rotating selection of sweet and savoury treats, with gluten-free and vegan options available. Whether you're a seasoned plant collector or just stopping by for a hot drink, Habitat is a little oasis you'll want to return to.

Bellingen NSW

24 km away

clothpaperclay

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cloth Paper Clay

Cloth Paper Clay is a vibrant studio space located on Main Street in Bellingen, home to artist Meg Wilkinson. Meg is a weaver, botanical dyer, jeweller, and ceramic artist whose practice celebrates texture, material, and the natural world. The front of the shop is dedicated to Meg's weaving studio — a working creative space where visitors can experience her process and explore her latest pieces. Alongside Meg's work, Cloth Paper Clay showcases an inspiring collection created by her incredibly talented local artist friends, including weavers, potters, jewellers, and even local coffee roasters. The space also offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books on textile art, ceramics, and related crafts, as well as beautifully chosen gifts from Bellingen and beyond. The back of the shop is dedicated to workshops — a creative teaching space where Meg hosts botanical dyeing and bag weaving workshops. Other artists also offer inspiring sessions designed to nurture your creativity and help it grow. Cloth Paper Clay is more than a shop — it's a celebration of local craftsmanship, creativity, and community.

Bellingen NSW

24 km away

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