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Chichester State Forest

Natural Attractions

Chichester State Forest

Picturesque Chichester State Forest is located in the Lower Barrington Tops and offers free picnic and camping grounds, the majority located near pristine rivers or creeks. Enjoy bushwalking, swimming, trail biking and four-wheel driving. Dogs on leads are permitted. Chichester State Forest is divided into two distinct areas, the western side centred on the Allyn River and the eastern side centred on the Telegherry River. Telegherry, Frying Pan, Currawong and Coachwood camping areas are located in the lush south-eastern side of the forest, best accessed from Dungog. Interesting short walks are to Problem Creek Falls (3.2km return) and the steep but short Dundungara Falls. White Rock, Old Camp and Pademelon Park are camping areas on the south-western side of the forest, best accessed from Gresford. Allyn River Forest Park is a great place for a picnic whilst the famous Ladies Well swimming hole is within a short distance of camping areas. Temperatures vary considerably between the foothills (170 metres) and the Barrington Plateau (1,577 metres). Night temperatures regularly drop below zero from June to November. Campers are advised to pack cold/wet weather gear, and take their own fresh drinking water. Forestry Corporation of NSW has been managing environmental sustainability, tourism and renewable timber production in NSW's State-owned commercial native and plantation State forests for more than a century.

Dungog NSW

0.0 km away

Theatre of the Shadow by Peter Tilley — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

The Theatre of the Shadow

This sculpture, titled The Theatre of the Shadow by Peter Tilley, dives into the confusing world where shadows and reflections play hide and seek. Imagine the shadow, basically your alter ego's selfie, or, in Jungian terms, your 'dark side' has a cosmic dance-off with its reflection. Let the identity crisis games begin! This work infers an ambiguity between shadow and reflection. The shadow is a projection of the person’s double, or, according to Jungian theory ‘the dark side of the self’. The Theatre of the Shadow found its home within the heart of the Dungog community, thanks to the generosity of Sculpture on the Farm, an arts event dedicated to fostering connections between sculptors, the local Dungog residents, and the broader public. After this art event, these amazing folks donate sculptures through an Acquisitive Prize selection for everyone to look at in the Dungog Shire. Peter Tilley's piece joined the Dungog Shire’s public art collection in 2019, right outside the Dungog Shire Library. Peter Tilley lives in Carrington NSW. He has been exhibiting for 35 years. He was represented by Brenda May Gallery, Sydney, for 34 years until the gallery closed in 2022. His studio is located at 'The Creator Incubator', Hamilton NSW. He has 35 solo exhibitions. SxS Bondi numerous times since 2004, SxS Cottesloe 7 times and SxS Aarhus Denmark 2009 and 2011.

Dungog NSW

0.4 km away

Sarah Crawford - Hand-sawed copper, Faber-Castell coloured

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gallery Minima

Gallery Minima is a new contemporary art space dedicated entirely to jewellery, objects and textiles under 30 cm² in volume. Located in the regional town of Dungog, NSW, Gallery Minima offers a refreshing counterpoint to large, impersonal exhibition spaces. Every work here is intentionally small—and not as a gimmick, but as a way to celebrate constraint. Smallness encourages thoughtfulness. It invites interaction. It honours the idea that art doesn't need to be large to be important. That, and the space itself is small. You'll discover exceptionally crafted objects, textile-based works, jewellery pieces, and objects engaging diverse mediums—all of them made by artists who understand how much meaning can be compressed into a compact form.

Dungog NSW

0.4 km away

Gallery view displaying local artists Helene Leane and Jeanne Harrison — Image credit: Helene Leane

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gallery on Dowling

Gallery on Dowling is an artist-run exhibition space. The gallery specialises in painting and printmaking. Artist, Helene Leane, uses the space as a studio and workshop allowing visitors to see an artist at work. Jeanne Harrison has an exhibition space where her works on paper are a key attraction. Both artists live in Dungog and are inspired by the verdant countryside - its native flora, wildlife and the pastures. The gallery is easily accessible for those with a disability and there is plenty of parking available.

Dungog NSW

0.5 km away

Dungog Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Dungog Museum

The Dungog Museum was formed in 1963 and since 1968 has operated a museum in the heritage-listed former School of Arts building. The purpose of the museum is the collecting, preserving and interpreting of local heritage for everyone. The society aims to promote local history - including family history and the museum collection - to the local community and the general public. They can assist with research enquiries in person or by correspondence. The collection reflects the area's rural history, including dairying, the timber industry, and local manufacturing including items from Wade's Cornflour Mill Dungog. Domestic items include household items and a photographic collection. Items that grandmother used for the house's daily running, dentist equipment for pulling teeth, medical items, known Dungog citizen's stories, and history. Horse-drawn carts and buggies, and shop items are also on display. Groups are welcome by appointment.

Dungog NSW

0.5 km away

Anglican Church Op Shop Dungog

Shopping and Markets

Anglican Church Op Shop Dungog

The Op-Shop provides a treasure-trove of bargains – from clothing, household goods, books, bric-a-brac and linen. Every week, new items are donated, and it is well worth a regular visit. With Cuppa and Chat in the parish hall on Fridays, make a morning of it: browse through the Op Shop, then refresh yourself with a cup of tea and chat with the locals. The volunteer staff are the best you could hope to meet, always ready to help you in any way they can, with a friendly smile and warm welcome. There is something for everyone to come in and have a look at.

Dungog NSW

0.5 km away

Chic and Antique

Shopping and Markets

Chic and Antique

Chic and Antique is full of up-cycled vintage and antique furniture, as well as an eclectic range of vintage wares, and clothing. Browse the store and find anything from an antique day bed, rocking chair, chairs, candelabras, mirrors, and old wicker baskets to iron artwork. Chic and Antique also stock linen, cotton clothing, knitwear, scented candles, eco-friendly giftware, jewellery, and footwear.

Dungog NSW

0.5 km away

Chic Clothing Co.

Shopping and Markets

Chic Clothing Co.

Chic Clothing Co. prides itself on customer service and will go the extra mile to keep the customer coming back, bringing you fashion that is suited to the stylish woman of today's society. Chic Clothing Co. sells clothing that is chic, comfortable and affordable. They are a locally owned and run award-winning business located in Dungog.

Dungog NSW

0.5 km away

Dungog Town Walk

Landmarks and Buildings

Dungog Town Walk

Take a walk along historic Dowling Street and view the many historic and beautiful buildings. Blue plaques on many buildings around Dungog will take you on a self-guided walk featuring historic buildings and other significant sites. Some of the highlights include the Dungog Inn (probably Dungog's oldest building), the former School of Arts (the home of the Dungog Historical Museum), the James Theatre and Coolalie. Take the self guided walk and read the history and what was on the site before.

Dungog NSW

0.6 km away

Dungog Area Birding Route

Natural Attractions

Dungog Area Birding Route

While you are visiting the beautiful Dungog Shire call into the Visitor Information Centre and pick up one of the birding brochures. Dungog is a wonderful place to go bird watching because seeing birds is easy, they are everywhere you look. A connection with birdlife becomes infinitely more enjoyable when we can put a name to those characters. It is a relaxing pastime and you can discover wonderous birds in the beautiful shire, breathe in the fresh air and clear your mind all at the same time. How many can you find?

Dungog NSW

0.6 km away

Doug Walters Statue

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Doug Walters Statue

Honouring Australian cricket great Doug Walters is a magnificent statue of Doug in typical stance, outside the Dungog Shire Visitor Information Centre. A hometown hero, Doug was born in Marshdale, Dungog in 1945, going on to play 74 Tests and 28 ODIs between 1965 (aged 19!) and 1981. The statue is by Louis Laumen, a sculptor famous for his creation of statues surrounding the Melbourne Cricket Ground (Shane Warne, Denis Lillie, Don Bradman, Bill Ponsford, Keith Miller, Neil Harvey, and many others). He has captured Walters just after smashing a classic cut shot. A member of the Cricket Australia Hall of Fame and Sport Australia Hall of Fame, Walters has been awarded an MBE and a Centenary Medal. Despite all of this success, Walters is proof that "you can take the boy out of Dungog but you can't take Dungog out of the boy". There is also a small tribute to Doug in the Dungog Memorial RSL Club -- The Doug Walters Bar -- which has some stats and a couple of bats.

Dungog NSW

0.6 km away

Kelpie by Jimmy Rix — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Kelpie

This bronze sculpture by Jimmy Rix is a celebration of the Australian Kelpie; a true-blue icon, bred to thrive in Australia's rugged conditions. These amazing dogs are natural herders, expertly mustering livestock with hardly any guidance, all while being playful and loyal companions. Jimmy Rix's sculptures are a delightful dive into personal experiences and everyday objects. His artistic tales often spring from the vibrant landscapes of Australia, where rebellious kangaroos, machine-horse hybrids, playful sheep, and common household items steal the spotlight. These sculptures are full of humour, engaging with Australian culture while also showing a heartfelt concern for the environment. The sculpture, Kelpie found its home within the heart of the Dungog community, thanks to the generosity of Sculpture on the Farm, an arts event dedicated to fostering connections between sculptors, the local Dungog residents, and the broader public. The mission of Sculpture on the Farm is to promote active participation in and appreciation of the arts, especially sculpture. Following each exhibition, the organisation donates sculptures for public display in the Dungog Shire, enhancing the community's cultural landscape and providing enjoyment for both locals and visitors. One notable contribution was made by Jimmy Rix in 2021, when his work became a part of the Dungog Shire's public art collection.

Dungog NSW

0.6 km away

Dungog By Design

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Dungog By Design

A vibrant collective of Dungog Shire artisans, their Dungog By Design art gallery showcases an ever-changing mix of art, jewellery, textiles, slow fashion, weaving, stained glass, photography, blacksmithing, wood art and specialist services. Regular exhibitions (check out the monthly "in the Frame" exhibits), unique gifts and friendly local chats await. Dungog By Design is a dynamic artisan collective, living in the area, creating and making their works on Gringai country for locals and visitors to the area. The group has a colourful abundance of crafts, jewellery, artwork, slow fashion, weaving, photography, and specialty services. Exhibitions and featured artists works are presented regularly. A superb spot for a special gift and a chat with a local artist.

Dungog NSW

0.6 km away

Dungog Arts Society

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Dungog Arts Society

Dungog Arts Society has evolved over fifty years from a small group of artists who met regularly in sheds and homes, to an incorporated society that has a shop in the main street of Dungog. In 2024 Dungog Arts Society initiated four exhibitions per year, aiming to make Dungog Arts Society more inclusive, promoting and featuring all visual, arts and crafts by community members. Dungog Arts Society is a community arts society, open to all visual artists and craftspeople. Its aims are to: increase membership to include craftspeople and all creative artists, increase youth participation, provide a creative and social outlet for members to participate in meetings, exhibitions and workshops, use exhibitions and workshops to establish and maintain a sound financial base, work with other community art groups to assist Dungog increase its profile in arts communities and transform lives and build community resilience through art, craft and creativity. Check their Facebook page for upcoming workshops, their popular sip and draw expeditions and more.

Dungog NSW

0.6 km away

Apex Lookout Dungog

Landmarks and Buildings

Apex Lookout Dungog

Apex Lookout provides excellent views (the best!) over the pretty country town of Dungog, looking east towards Cooreei (the high hill with the telecommunications towers) and also views to the north towards Barrington Tops. There is a table and benches available to sit and enjoy the views of the countryside and the township. Adjacent to the Lookout is Dungog Hospital, which provides medical and sub-acute care, allied health services, and community health nursing services.

Dungog NSW

0.7 km away

Dungog James Theatre

Entertainment Venues

Dungog James Theatre

The James Theatre is the oldest purpose-built cinema still operating in Australia. It is the centre of so much cultural activity in the region, showing a wide range of films and holding festivals, concerts and performances throughout the year. Once the social hub of Dungog, it has been the site of film screenings, balls, dances, concerts and special events for more than a hundred years. The kiosk has freshly made popcorn, their famous choc tops and serves tea and coffee. Since 2011, the Friends of the James Theatre has worked to keep the Theatre operational for films, live performances and functions. The Theatre has been repainted in colours appropriate to its Spanish Mission Style, and the original colours of the Theatre, a digital projector, new screen, air-conditioning, lights, wifi and a range of less visible but important maintenance have kept the Theatre up with the times and is now showing two or three films each month. The James Theatre is available for hire for film, music or dramatic events as well as weddings, parties, dances, educational uses and meetings. Check the website for upcoming events.

Dungog NSW

0.7 km away

backyard — Image credit: I own it

Shopping and Markets

Hive and Gobbler

Hive and Gobbler is a destination hub for sharing in creativity, slow-living and sustainability ideas. Here in one spot you'll find everything for your next creative pursuit - be that in the home, garden or kitchen. Hive and Gobbler sell raw fibre, yarn, cheese kits, grow-kits....everything to get your started on your slow-living journey. Everyone is creative! Come along to one of their many workshops and find out! You can also book a private session for your family, social or corporate group. Workshops run most weekends throughout the calendar year. With extra programs often running during the school holidays and long weekends. Check out their full workshop program which includes: Fibre Arts, Drawing, Ceramics / Clay, Natural Dyeing, Breadmaking, Jam-making, Cheese Making, Basket Weaving, Handmade Body Products & Soaps, Macrame, Art & Sip, CreativeKids. Hive and Gobbler is located in Dungog's oldest building - the Old Dungog Inn. Built in the 1840s, overlooking a beautifully hilly outlook. Come and taste a little of Dungog's past, and enjoy our beautiful outdoor grounds. Hive and Gobbler support local, handmade, buy-from-the-bush businesses and artisans, with traceability to paddock or maker where we can!

Dungog NSW

0.7 km away

Entwined by Bob Teasdale at Dungog Common — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Entwined

Standing gracefully at the Dungog Common Reserve "Entwined" captures humanity's delicate balancing act with nature. This striking corten steel sculpture symbolises our collective struggle to harmonize environmental preservation with growth and sustainability.' Bob Teasdale brings his structural steel fabrication background to his artistic practice, transforming both discarded materials and new steel into compelling sculptural works. Though lacking formal art training, Teasdale's natural aesthetic sensibility has garnered recognition through multiple awards and sales to collectors across Queensland, New South Wales, and the ACT. His recent exploration of corten steel has led to more contemporary, stylized pieces like "Entwined" which seamlessly blends industrial materials with organic forms. Some of his other works incorporate old farm machinery, creating pieces that resonate with historical significance. "Entwined" found its permanent home in Dungog through the generosity of Sculpture on the Farm, a not-for-profit arts organisation dedicated to fostering connections between sculptors and communities. Donated in 2020, this sculpture exemplifies the organsation's mission to enhance public spaces through art. Visitors to Dungog Common Reserve can experience "Entwined" alongside other donated sculptures, all part of an ongoing initiative to enrich the cultural landscape of the Dungog Shire and create meaningful artistic encounters for both residents and tourists.

Dungog NSW

0.8 km away

Nothing but Sky by Braddon Snape — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Nothin' But Sky

It might be ironic that this steel sculpture, by Braddon Snape, has been located above one of Dungog’s iconic spots, which the locals have tagged “the Hollywood sign”. Once inside the portal of this sculpture, Dungog and its icons disappear. The sound changes as well. Feel free to spend some time listening and gazing up. Take a photo and share it with us via the Creative Valley socials. Nothin’ But Sky is one of several sculptures you’ll find around Dungog Shire that have been donated by Sculpture on The Farm, an art festival held every couple of years out at Fosterton, north of the town. Each festival, two or three prize-winners are gifted to the shire to enhance the cultural landscape, for the enjoyment of both locals and visitors. Operating as a not-for-profit organisation, Sculpture on the Farm is committed to creating a lasting impact on the Dungog community. Nothin’ But Sky was the first overall winner of the competition. Dr Braddon Snape is a nationally recognised Newcastle-based artist specialising in three-dimensional practice including large-scale public artworks.

Dungog NSW

0.8 km away

Country Elegance Gardens and Gifts

Agritourism

Country Elegance Gardens and Gifts

Discover your garden inspiration at Country Elegance, an award-winning garden centre set within beautiful landscaped grounds. Since 1999, Country Elegance has been the go-to destination for gardeners, plant lovers, and anyone seeking ideas and inspiration for their outdoor spaces. Whether you're planning your first garden or refreshing an existing landscape, you'll find everything you need under one roof. Wander through thoughtfully curated grounds showcasing an extensive variety of indoor and outdoor plants, from classic favourites to interesting specimens. Beyond plants, discover a treasure trove of gifts, homewares, decorative pots, garden statues, and striking garden art pieces. Outdoor furniture, landscaping solutions, and expert florist services complete the offering, each element designed to spark your creativity and bring your vision to life it is a garden lover's paradise. Country Elegance's commitment to quality was recognised when it received the prestigious award for Best Small Garden Centre in NSW and ACT (2017) from the Nursery and Garden Industry. This accolade reflects the exceptional range and expertise visitors experience every visit. Enjoy freshly brewed barista-style coffee and refreshing cold drinks while you browse. Fresh flowers are hand-delivered daily, making Country Elegance perfect for gifts or special occasions. Visit today and be pleasantly surprised by the inspiration awaiting you. Connect with them on Facebook or explore their website for more.

Dungog NSW

0.8 km away

Campfire by Tarisse King — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Campsites

Situated on the Dungog Common, this sculpture by Tarisse King brings her "Campsites" story to life in three-dimensional form. Australian Indigenous culture is well known for its nomadic lifestyle. Tarisse often reflects on the fact that her ancestors would constantly move from one campsite to another to find a better food and water source and for better shelter to suit the seasonal conditions. Her campsites story refers to her time spent travelling across the Northern Territory with her Father, and alludes to active and abandoned campsites, meandering rivers and small tributaries. The use of metal in her Campsites sculpture reflects the enduring strength and resilience of Australian Indigenous culture, with its stories passed down through generations. Natural stone was chosen to deepen the story’s connection to the land, while the rusted finish evokes the ancient markings and long history these stories carry. Born in Adelaide, South Australia in 1986, Tarisse is the daughter of the late William King Jungala, a highly influential Indigenous artist. She is of Gurindji heritage. Now residing in New Zealand and a mother of five, Tarisse continues to create, feeling a profound connection between past and future. The past offers history, stability, stories, and roots, while the future brings hope, change, and a sense of belonging to something deeply human.

Dungog NSW

1.1 km away

Sowelu Two by Jen Mallinson — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Sowelu Two

What do you notice about these striking organic forms on your walk on Dungog Common? The fluid and natural shapes of Sowelu Two, crafted from corten steel, make a bold yet harmonious statement amidst the natural landscape. Mallinson treated the steel with a hydrochloric wash to create streaks that look like timber from a distance. Jen Mallinson is a contemporary artist whose captivating sculptures in steel are inspired by the natural environment. With a sensitive aesthetic and abstract vision, she creates unique works that explore the macrocosm and microcosm of our world, resulting in sculptures that reflect the beauty and complexity of our environment. Each piece is unique and made by hand in her studio on the far south coast of NSW. This sculpture by Jen Mallinson found its home within the heart of the Dungog community, thanks to the generosity of Sculpture on the Farm, an arts event dedicated to fostering connections between sculptors, the local Dungog residents, and the broader public. Following each exhibition, Sculpture on the Farm donates sculptures for public display in the Dungog Shire. This sculpture donated in 2021 can be viewed at the Dungog Common Reserve, along with other acquisitive sculptures from the same event. You can find this sculpture on the hill behind the public toilets near the car park/main entry to the reserve.

Dungog NSW

1.1 km away

Cooreei Bridge over Williams River — Image credit: Photos courtesy of Ivan Skaines.

Landmarks and Buildings

Cooreei Bridge over Williams River

The Cooreei Bridge over the Williams River at Dungog is listed under the NSW Heritage Act. Built in 1905, the Cooreei Bridge is an example of the Dare design. (Now known as a Dare truss, the zenith of timber truss development, and technically superior to previous types.) According to the pamphlet, Historic Bridges of the Hunter Valley, Harvey Dare re-worked Allan's design (the bridge over the Paterson River at Vacy) to produce a composite truss without pins. The result is stronger, and maintenance is easier. The bridge actually predates the opening of the Bendemeer Bridge (also a Dare truss type) by a month (and may make the Dungog Bridge the earliest built Dare Truss Road Bridge ). Tenders were called for the Dungog Bridge on the 1st of July 1904. Work commenced in October 1904, the Bridge was open to traffic in July 1905, and it officially opened on Wednesday, 16th August 1905. The bridge is listed under transport activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another and systems for the provision of such movements.

Dungog NSW

1.4 km away

Centred Earth by Sam Anderson — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Centred Earth

As you wander along the track of the Dungog Common, a striking, wheel-like structure stands boldly atop the hill, commanding attention. Approaching closer, it evokes the sense of a stargate to another world. This sculpture, crafted from recycled steel and mild steel plate by Sam Anderson, was acquired by Dungog Common Recreation Reserve and Dungog Regional Tourism Inc. in 2023. Sculpture on the Farm is an arts event that fosters connections between sculptors, the Dungog community, and the broader public. Artist Statement: Centred Earth is based around the connection of people to the sun, earth, themselves and each other. The sculpture emanates peace and harmony, spreading joy during these current changing times. Based in Northeast Victoria, Sam Anderson has been sculpting since 2007, exhibiting across NSW and Victoria. His creations range from impressive 8-meter whale sharks that illuminate at night to intricate, delicate seed pods crafted from recycled pipes and antique wagon rims. Sam often incorporates the inherent shapes found in these recycled materials as the foundation of his work. Over the years, his portfolio has grown into a diverse collection of animal and abstract sculptures, now showcased at his sculpture park on his property in Londrigan, near Wangaratta. Sam's accolades include the Lake Lights Illumination Award (2019), Sculpture Bermagui Award (2019), and First Place at Sculptures at Killalea (2012), alongside numerous People’s Choice Awards.

Dungog NSW

1.5 km away

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