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Butchers Mural, Gresford by Dan Bianco — Image credit: David Oliver

Landmarks and Buildings

The Butchers Mural

Drive into Gresford and you may spot a fun and playful mural on the side of the local Butchers. This mural is part of a grand vision for Gresford…. to 'bring the Gresford area alive with beautiful murals for the community and visitors to enjoy'. This is the mission of the Gorgeous Gresford Mural Committee, and each time you visit you might discover another mural or public art piece enlightening the landscape. The Butcher Mural was painted by Newcastle based mural artist Dan Bianco.

Gresford NSW

0.4 km away

Native Gardens — Image credit: DungogVIC

Parks and Gardens

Gresford Arboretum

Explore the Gresford Arboretum, where a community's passion comes alive through the dedicated work of locals from groups including Gresford District Community Group and Gresford District Landcare. Their vision extends beyond a mere botanical garden, aiming to infuse it with art, murals, and sculptures. The vibrant murals portraying local wildlife are the masterpieces of artist Christine Pike, a range of species including the cockatoo, king parrots/satin bower birds, nocturnal powerful owl, possum and phascogale, and wedgetail eagle and chick to feature in her artwork. The Arboretum features a beautiful gazebo and barbeque area with natural sculptures for children to explore close by while you are preparing a feast. It stands on a patch of the historic Clevedon estate.

East Gresford NSW

0.4 km away

Gresford Arboretum Mural — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Gresford Arboretum Mural

Explore the Gresford arboretum, where a community's passion comes alive through the dedicated work of locals from groups like the Gresford District Community Group and Gresford District Landcare. Their vision extends beyond a mere botanical garden, aiming to infuse it with art, murals, and sculptures. The vibrant murals portraying local wildlife are the masterpieces of artist Christine Pike, whose home base is nearby Vacy. Christine embarked on a two-year journey, meticulously observing the changes in plants at the Arboretum. Her exploration extended across the Dungog Shire and Barrington National Park, documenting notes, conducting research, and sketching for the final murals. Eventually, she selected a range of species including the cockatoo, king parrots/satin bower birds, nocturnal powerful owl, possum and phascogale, and wedgetail eagle and chick to feature in her artwork. The entire project spanned two years from inception to completion. Drawing inspiration from artists like Molly Flaxman and Rhondda Walters and guided by the mentorship of Ann Cape, Christine expresses her artistry through watercolors and mixed media. Her creations, born from a fascination with life drawings, have earned her recognition as a Semi-Finalist in the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize, a Finalist in the Mosman Art Prize and the 42 Muswellbrook Art Prize, and a Winner of the Pam Jennings Memorial Open Prize in Scone.

East Gresford NSW

0.4 km away

Kangaroo with Honey Eater by Jimmy Rix — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Kangaroo and Honeyeater Sculpture

What's the reason behind a honey eater perched on the paw of this bronze kangaroo sculpture? Could it be a reflection on the environment? Or perhaps a whimsical interpretation of nature's interplay? Engage with its texture—the use of bronze allows the sculptor to craft organic, stylized forms. Jimmy Rix's sculptures are deeply rooted in personal experiences and familiar objects. He often draws inspiration from the natural and farmed landscapes of Australia. In his world, rebellious kangaroos, machine-horse hybrids, playful sheep and everyday items take centre stage. These sculptures not only reflect a keen sense of humour but also engage with Australian culture and express genuine concern for the environment. Kangaroo and Honeyeater 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 Dungog. Kangaroo and Honeyeater’ won the Sculpture on the Farm Acquisitive Prize for display in the Gresford Arboretum. Jimmy Rix grew up on farmland in Queensland and now lives at Malmsbury (Dja Dja Warrun country) in Victoria. He creates narrative works, works that capture a moment in a story, often focusing on creatures both domestic and wild from his own personal experiences and encounters.

East Gresford NSW

0.4 km away

Black Cocka too Mural on Gallery entrance. by Christine Pike. — Image credit: Gresford Community Gallery.

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gresford Community Gallery

A contemporary art gallery in the rural village of East Gresford NSW. The gallery is set amidst the lovely Arboretum and visitors' park. The gallery features quality art and craft, highlighting the Hunter Valley arts creative community. Exhibiting painting, drawing, sculptures, ceramics, photography, jewellery, fibre art and glass work. Throughout the year the gallery conducts art and craft workshops for children and adults.

East Gresford NSW

0.4 km away

Vacy Bridge over Paterson River

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Vacy Bridge over Paterson River

Completed in 1898, the historic Vacy Bridge is an early example of an Allan type timber truss road bridge, and gains heritage significance from its proximity to the high concentration of other historic bridges in the area. Come and explore this wonderful area. As a timber truss road bridge, it has many association links with important historical events, trends, and people, including the expansion of the road network and economic activity throughout New South Wales, and Percy Allan, the designer of this type of truss. Allan trusses were third in the five-stage design evolution of New South Wales timber truss bridges, and were a major improvement over the McDonald trusses which preceded them. Allan trusses were 20 per cent cheaper to build than McDonald trusses, could carry 50 per cent more load, and were easier to maintain.

Vacy NSW

12 km away

Vacy Community Arts Centre

Entertainment Venues

Vacy Community Arts Centre

Vacy Community Arts Centre is a not for profit community organisation selling a unique variety of art and craft produced by local artisans. They are located on Gresford Road which runs through the small rural village of Vacy in the Hunter Valley. This delightful little Community Arts Centre offers a large and varied range of art and craft produced by local craftsmen and women. Call in to see them, they have something for everyone.

Vacy NSW

12 km away

Vacy School of Arts Hall

Landmarks and Buildings

Vacy School of Arts Hall

Vacy School of Arts Hall is a valued local community hall. The Vacy community raised the money by subscription and local loans to build it in 1901 for social functions and meetings of various community groups . And it has been in continuous use ever since (125 years to date!). The hall has served as a functional space for dance classes, CWA functions, as a library, RSL hall, playgroup, cricket and soccer clubs. Its use by the RSL Gresford Sub-branch is evident in the honour board on display. The timber framed building has rebated weatherboard cladding and a corrugated Colorbond roof. There is a surviving carved timber barge board on the larger gable. The building includes a hall, stage, kitchen, cloakroom, ticket office, toilet, ramp entrance, other meeting rooms and a room behind the stage. The hall has been used for weddings, and school functions and can be hired for private functions and a meeting place. The hall holds 80-100 people.

Vacy NSW

13 km away

Wallarobba Memorial Hall

Entertainment Venues

Wallarobba Memorial Hall

Wallarobba Hall was built in 1936 and, therefore, is a typical Hall of that era. A supper room is adjacent to the main hall area with a new kitchen with basic kitchen facilities. They often hold functions at the hall. The toilets are new. The hall has a ramp and disabled toilet facilities. There is a clay tennis court at the rear of the hall.

Wallarobba NSW

15 km away

Lostock Dam

Natural Attractions

Lostock Dam

Lostock Dam is a minor rock fill and clay core embankment dam with a concrete-lined, flip bucket spillway across the Paterson River upstream of the village of East Gresford in the Hunter region of New South Wales. The dam's purpose includes flood mitigation, irrigation, water supply and conservation. Mini hydro-power facilities were retrofitted in 2010. Commenced in 1969 and completed in 1971, Lostock Dam is a minor dam on the Paterson River, a tributary of the Hunter River, and is located approximately 65 kilometres from both Maitland and Singleton, also 93 kilometres north-west of Newcastle, on the upper reaches of the river. The dam was built by Dumez Australia under contract to the New South Wales Water Department of Land and Water Conservation following the drought of 1964 to 1966. At that time there was a need for a water conservation storage in Paterson Valley to stabilise and further develop rural productivity. Walk or drive across the dam wall for views of the lake and rolling countryside. The wall is 38 metres high and 701 metres long. Lostock Dam is a popular inland sports and recreation dam.

Lostock NSW

15 km away

Dungog and District Golf Club

Entertainment Venues

Dungog and District Golf Club

Dungog and District Golf Club is set in a beautiful rural environment just minutes south of the town of Dungog. The course has nine holes, grass greens, Par 70, ACR 68, 5748 metres. The Club holds regular competitions and clinics. The course is very well maintained. The clubhouse is also available for functions. The atmosphere of the Club is very friendly and welcoming, visitors are welcome for a round of golf.

Dungog NSW

16 km away

Centred Earth by Sam Anderson — Image credit: Dungog VIC

Natural Attractions

Dungog Common Recreation Reserve

The Dungog Common comprises 650 acres reserved for communal recreational use and environmental protection. Not only is it a breath of fresh air, it's beauty will inspire. Traditionally home to the Gringai people, the Common is an area for locals and visitors to quite literally, get back to nature. All the walking, MTB and horse-riding trails on our website and on the information panels just down below the amenities block (up from the main carpark and entrance). The Common has a lot to offer. In addition to mountain biking, Dungog Common boasts horse-riding trails, bushwalking and trail running courses as well as purpose-built mountain bike flow tracks, including a tandem track that'll keep aspiring mountain bikers entertained for hours. The world class pump track is all weather and always open. Seek out the sculptures placed within the area. Of course, if you just fancy some quiet time in nature, the Common is the perfect place for a family picnic. Plans are set for an architecturally designed amenities facility as well as other communal recreation facilities. Keep up to date with the Dungog Common, MTB Dungog , RideDungog, RunDungog on their Facebook pages. With over 30 kilometres of cross-country mountain bike trail and purpose-built flow trail, the Dungog Common is the home of MTB Dungog and is fast becoming a leading mountain biking destination.

Dungog NSW

17 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

18 km away

Collecting fur to line the nest 2 by Jimmy Rix — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Collecting Fur to Line the Nest Two by Jimmy Rix

This striking corten steel sculpture at Dungog Common Recreation Reserve depicts a moment of symbiosis—a kangaroo providing fur for Brown Headed Honey Eaters to line their nest. As the winner of the 2023 Sculpture on the Farm Inc Acquisitive Prize, this piece (edition two of three) celebrates the intricate relationships within Australia's ecosystem. Born in 1971 in Allora, Queensland, Jimmy Rix grew up on a cattle and crop property where life on the Darling Downs shaped his artistic vision. His deep connection to the Australian landscape and its creatures emerged from childhood experiences among sacred Aboriginal sites and close encounters with native wildlife. Rix's narrative-based sculptures feature recurring protagonists from his personal experiences—rebellious kangaroos, majestic owls, household pets, and wild visitors like foxes and ravens. Now based in Victoria's Macedon Ranges on Dja Dja Wurrung country, he continues creating while managing a small cattle operation. With major commissions across Australia—from the Parliament House Art Collection to public installations for artsACT and Transport NSW—Rix has established himself as a significant voice in Australian sculpture. His solo exhibitions, including "Symbiosis" (2022) and "Domestic and Feral" (2020) at Australian Galleries, complement appearances in prestigious group exhibitions like Sculpture by the Sea. Through "Collecting Fur to Line the Nest 2" Rix invites visitors to consider our role in preserving the delicate symbiotic relationships that sustain Australia's unique biodiversity.

Dungog NSW

18 km away

A Thought is a Ripple by Gavin Vitullo — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Gavin Vitullo: A Thought is a Ripple

Hidden away along Common Creek opposite Gate four in Dungog Common Reserve awaits an ephemeral work waiting to be discovered. "A Thought is a Ripple" emerged from a six-day immersion in the Dungog Common by Newcastle Earth Artist Gavin Vitullo, resulting in an imposing environmental sculpture centered around a naturally felled log. This installation exemplifies Vitullo's connection to the natural world, creating a work both thoughtful and poetic. Using the fallen timber alongside other salvaged and sustainable materials, the piece embodies the artist's commitment to minimal environmental impact while inspiring reflection on humanity's relationship with nature. Newcastle-based Vitullo brings impressive credentials to this contemplative installation. A fine arts graduate of Hunter St TAFE and Newcastle University, he has claimed consecutive first prizes in the Newcastle Emerging Artist Prize for sculpture, along with being a five-time Gosford Art Prize finalist and winning the 2016 Hunter Region Botanical Gardens sculpture prize. This environmental art project was made possible through an AUD3,000 Create NSW Grant awarded to Sculpture on the Farm, used entirely to engage Vitullo for this ephemeral creation in early April. The Earth Art Experience at Dungog Common was proudly supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW. Donated in 2021, this installation enhances Dungog's cultural landscape while furthering Sculpture on the Farm's mission to connect artists with communities through meaningful public art experiences.

Dungog NSW

18 km away

UFO by Nigel Dobson — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

UFO Utopia by Nigel Dobson

UFO Utopia makes a commanding presence at Dungog Common Reserve near Dungog Common Hill. This unique corten steel sculpture, winner of the 2023 Sculpture on the Farm Inc. Acquisitive Prize, represents a fascinating fusion of Soviet-era monument aesthetics with science fiction and space travel themes. The symmetrical structure dramatically blooms from the ground, offering viewers multiple perspectives and sightlines that change as they move around the piece. The massive scale and weathered corten steel material create a striking contrast against the natural landscape, enhancing its otherworldly quality. Nigel Dobson's artistic vision draws heavily from the monumental structures of Eastern Europe constructed during the 1950s-70s. By extracting their visual language and infusing science fiction elements, he creates sculptures with a distinctly futuristic character. His process involves cutting and welding corten steel sheets to achieve voluminous shapes that assemble into cohesive, dramatic forms. A graduate of ANU School of Art (2014) and National Art School (2019), Dobson has received significant recognition in Australia's sculpture community. His achievements include winning the prestigious Clitheroe Scholarship in 2019 and selection as a finalist in Sculpture by the Sea in both 2019 and 2022. Originally from Canberra, Dobson returned to his hometown after several years in Sydney, where he continues his creative practice from his studio.

Dungog NSW

18 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

18 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

18 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

18 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

18 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

18 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

19 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

19 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

19 km away

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