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Historic Monkerai Bridge

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Historic Monkerai Bridge

The Monkerai Bridge, over the Karuah River, is the second oldest surviving timber truss bridge in NSW, being completed in 1882. After extensive upgrades over recent years, it will remain a beautiful architectural gem for years to come! It has been added to the NSW State Heritage Register for its great historical and technical significance -- it is an exceptionally rare example of an Old PWD truss bridge. Only two Old PWD truss bridges survive, out of a total of 147 constructed. This Bridge is significant through its association with William Bennett, the Commissioner for Public Works, designer of the Old PWD truss, and "father" of timber truss bridges in NSW. And its original form is for the use of locally sourced materials. The form of the Bridge is aesthetically pleasing. The structural detail of the Bridge is clearly visible, and the form of the truss has an angularity and repetition of form that is pleasing to the eye. The Bridge is located in a visually attractive landscape of gently rolling hills and valleys, and the Bridge itself forms an attractive addition to the built component of that landscape. The appearance of the Bridge when viewed from up or downstream is quite striking.

Main Creek NSW

16 km away

Double Wharf picnic area

Natural Attractions

Double Wharf picnic area

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle for the day, you couldn’t find a more peaceful picnic spot than Double Wharf picnic area. On the banks of Karuah River, it’s a picturesque spot to just sit back and relax – yet there’s also plenty to see and do. With easy access to the river, it’s a great place to launch your kayak or canoe and head off paddling up the river. The mangroves areas along Deep Creek, Limeburners Creek and Karuah River make this area an important fish habitat and a popular fishing destination, so don’t forget your fishing tackle. Keen birdwatchers will find plenty to feast their eyes on with the abundance of birdlife in the area. Watch the magnificent yellow-tailed black cockatoos going about their early morning feeding routines in the casuarinas along the river’s edge, or go for a short bushwalk and see if you can see one of the local koalas in the eucalypts.

Limeburners Creek NSW

19 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

19 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 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

20 km away

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

20 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

21 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

21 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

21 km away

Karuah National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Karuah National Park

Get back to basics and spend a relaxing weekend by the river at Karuah National Park. Pack your mountain bike and explore the park on the network of 4WD trails. It's also a great place for picnicking by the water. Launch your boat, kayak or canoe and enjoy paddling on the beautiful waters of Karuah River. Take advantage of this popular fishing destination and try your luck fishing with the kids. Then wander back to your campsite to watch the colours in the sky transform at dusk and get up close with some of the locals bandicoots, goannas and brush-tailed possums, to name a few. Sleep under the stars and wake up to the sound of birdcalls welcoming a new day. Enjoy a hot brekkie around the campfire looking out across the river from your campsite, as you get ready for another day surrounded by nature.

Limeburners Creek NSW

21 km away

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