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Clarence Town Bowling, Sport and Recreation Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Clarence Town Bowling, Sport and Recreation Club

Clarence Town Bowling, Sport and Recreation Club is a community venue for social and community forums, meetings, seminars and Council issues. The Marias Kitchen restaurant provides an excellent atmosphere for weddings, birthdays, and special functions, seating up to 90 patrons, with the adjacent auditorium seating an additional 100 patrons. Weekly specials and themed nights are available for all members and guests. The wonderful management, staff, caterers, and facilities will make your visit very much worthwhile.

Clarence Town NSW

0.1 km away

Clarence Town School of Arts Hall

Landmarks and Buildings

Clarence Town School of Arts Hall

Clarence Town School of Arts Hall was built in 1915 and is maintained by a small group of volunteers. The Hall has magnificent chandeliers, pressed tin walls and ceiling, original coloured glass windows and a tin roof. There is a main hall with a stage and separate supper room and a large fully equipped kitchen. The walls in the supper room have made an ideal place for historical photos of Clarence Town, the river and boats that frequented the port. An ideal place for weddings, family functions, Corporate Events, and Fundraising activities. Regular classes are held each week, including Exercise Boot Camps, Tai Chi, Exercise, Children's Gymnastics, Dance and Hunter Valley Performing Arts, also host the Boomerang Bag sewing bees and other community events. Suitable for: wedding reception, wedding ceremony, parties and celebrations, meetings, group fitness and dance, concerts and plays, conferences.

Clarence Town NSW

0.2 km away

Clarence Town and District Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Clarence Town and District Museum

Clarence Town and District Museum is a former courthouse building (1869) and now the site of a local history museum that focuses on Clarence Town as a terminal of navigation and river port. Its collection encompasses shipbuilding, exploration, maps, documents, photographs, memorabilia, household items, timber-getting, agriculture, and Williams River's settlement history. Come in and view the wonderful display. The friendly staff welcome you.

Clarence Town NSW

0.3 km away

Canoeing at Clarence Town

Natural Attractions

Canoeing at Clarence Town

The boat ramp at Bridge Reserve (adjacent to the Williams River Holiday Park) at Clarence Town is a great spot to access the Williams River. One option is to travel upriver under the historic “Brig ‘O Johnson” Bridge and continue north along the Williams River towards Rowlands Falls. Your peaceful journey upstream will be through farmland and there is abundant birdlife to view and take photos of. Pick up a bird brochure from the Visitor Centre to take with you. Clarence Town has a shipbuilding industry where Australia’s first ocean-going steamer was built. An important part of the region's economy in days gone by. The early establishment of relatively small farms on the river, and the ease of river transport led to rapid growth. Along with tobacco factories and steam-driven flour mills, one of the earliest National Schools was founded here in 1849 - Source History in the Williams River Valley.

Clarence Town NSW

0.4 km away

Brig O’Johnston Bridge

Landmarks and Buildings

Brig O’Johnston Bridge

The Brig O'Johnston Bridge sits over the Williams River at Clarence Town and was built in 1880 and is the oldest surviving timber truss bridge in NSW. The bridge is one of 26 bridges identified for conservation in the Roads and Maritime Timber Truss Bridge Conservation Strategy, which was developed in consultation with the Heritage Council of NSW. The strategy was developed to address the long-term management of these structures and aims to establish a balance between infrastructure provision and heritage conservation. The strategy was displayed for stakeholder and community comment in 2011. Given its heritage significance the Brig O'Johnston Bridge was identified for rehabilitation to meet current vehicle load standards while preserving its heritage feature. A new bridge is currently being constructed next to the Brig which will become a pedestrian bridge.

Clarence Town NSW

0.5 km away

Seaham Swamp Bird Hide

Natural Attractions

Seaham Swamp Bird Hide

Seaham Swamp Bird Hide is a haven for birdwatching. Visit this great Seaham attraction to see a variety of Hunter region waterfowl, both out in the swamp and sheltering in the hide. Located in a small wetland reserve adjacent to Seaham village, this all-weather bird hide allows you to watch from a platform, ensuring you get great views and photos of the birds without disturbing them. Check out the surrounding signage with interesting information on the birds of Seaham Swamp or stop at one of the picnic tables for a snack amidst imposing rough-trunked ironbark trees. For another view of the swamp try stretching your legs along Seaham Swamp walk.

Seaham NSW

10 km away

Seaham Swamp Nature Reserve

National Parks and Reserves

Seaham Swamp Nature Reserve

Whether you're interested in birdwatching, Aboriginal heritage, bushwalking or natural history, the Hunter region's Seaham Swamp Nature Reserve offers a memorable experience. Birdwatching enthusiasts have already caught onto this little gem, which is a habitat for numerous waterfowl. Locals will also tell you it's a great place for a walk at any time of year, and historically significant in more ways than one. Seaham Swamp Nature Reserve boasts an impressive variety of freshwater wetland habitats, from open water and mud flats to melaleuca forest, open woodlands and pasture. Bring along a picnic, a camera and your trusty walking shoes and you're all set for a delightful day in the great outdoors.

Seaham NSW

10 km away

Seaham Swamp Walk — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Seaham Swamp Walk

Seaham Swamp walk is a great option for walking with kids. This short walk near Newcastle and Raymond Terrace is also a must for birdwatching. Enjoy a short walk through ironbark forest with lovely views of the adjacent Seaham Swamp. A great option for walking with kids, this 300 metre track is ideal for birdwatching and nature-spotting. Keep your eyes peeled - it’s likely you’ll spy a range of waterfowl and migratory birds, and perhaps a goanna or grey kangaroo too. Continue on to the swamp itself or the nearby Seaham Swamp Bird Hide to catch sight of its birdlife and maybe even some of the more elusive residents like eastern snake-necked turtles. Located in Seaham, north-west of Raymond Terrace and about 40km from Newcastle, the track begins at the old stone church on Seaham Road. This walk also boasts other fascinating heritage attractions like the colonial-era Tom’s Cottage, complete with a corrugated-iron roof.

Seaham NSW

10 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

13 km away

FarmGate - In Our Hands

Shopping and Markets

FarmGate - In Our Hands

A local farmgate that supplies eggs, honey, dried fruit, pickles, sauces, jams, chutneys, bone broth, ferments, tea, flavoured salts, soaps and other homewares. All items are produced on-site or by other local craftspeople. Payment options are available (cash or transfer). The farmgate is open seven days a week. The family's operations are aligned with the ethics and principles of permaculture and sustainable practices are at the forefront of all the products available.

Seaham NSW

13 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

14 km away

John Tucker Park

Parks and Gardens

John Tucker Park

John Tucker Park is located in the township of Paterson and is located beside the Paterson River. It is named after local identity John Tucker, who in 1939 purchased a riverside parcel of land alongside a small area already being used as a park by the public containing trees he himself had planted. He then presented his purchase to the Council, ensuring it would be added to the area on the river bank. Later Dungog Shire Council purchased more land to extend the park. There are covered picnic tables and barbecues available in the park, as well as play equipment. Rows of tall, beautiful poplar trees (cottonwoods) greet you as you enter the park, offering a fantastic photo opportunity. Kids can play safely in the fully fenced playground, which is equipped with a large shade sail to protect them from the sun. The playground floor is covered in fine woodchip, so expect little ones to get a bit dusty; old clothes are recommended. The Paterson New Year's Eve Festival is held at John Tucker Park annually on New Year's Eve.

Paterson NSW

16 km away

Paterson Court House Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Paterson Court House Museum

Paterson Courthouse Museum is open on Sundays (except in late December and early January; see website for details). The Museum is located in the former Courthouse in the town of Paterson. The Courthouse, opened in 1858, was the centre of justice in the district until it ceased operation in 1967. Paterson Historical Society aims to promote and preserve the history and heritage of the Paterson district and help people find information about their forebears from the district. Paterson Courthouse Museum opened in 1974, operated by the Paterson Historical Society. It holds extensive collections including special displays on Dorothy MacKellar, Rev Rupp (orchids), the Tocal murder of 1874 and the only surviving double-sided Manchester Unity Independent Order of Odd Fellows banner. There are also many publications for sale on the history of the Paterson Valley which can be viewed on the website. Groups are welcome to visit the Museum outside normal opening times by prior arrangement. The Museum can also open outside normal times for individuals or couples by prior arrangement, subject to availability of volunteer staff; there are special-opening fees that apply; contact the Society by email to arrange.

Paterson NSW

16 km away

Pelicans of Paterson Sculpture by Bill 'Wallaby' Cummins — Image credit: Suzannah Jones AUH

Landmarks and Buildings

Pelicans of Paterson

The picturesque town of Paterson is home to a delightful group of pelican sculptures known as the Pelicans of Paterson (POP). These quirky, big-billed birds are perched in unexpected places—on signs, rooftops, and poles—adding character and charm to the town. The POP sculptures were created by the late Bill "Wallaby" Cummins, a local artist and engineer who ran Wallaby Engineering in Paterson. Bill had a long-standing fascination with pelicans, which he saw as symbols of protection and care. Over a 40-year period, he handcrafted dozens of pelicans, many of which still dot the town today. Sadly, Bill passed away in 2019, but his legacy lives on through these joyful works of public art. There's a deeper connection, too: the pelican appears on the Paterson family's Scottish coat of arms. Captain William Paterson—after whom the town and river were named—led the first European expedition to the Hunter region in 1801. The sculptures have recently been restored and revived thanks to Phil Watts and the Rotary Club of Paterson. Each pelican has its own theme based on its location, making them a fun and unique way to explore the town. How many POP pelicans can you find as you wander through Paterson?

Paterson NSW

16 km away

CPH 1,3 and 7 approaching Maitlandavailable for — Image credit: Bruce Gehrig

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Paterson Rail Motor Museum

Step back in time at the fascinating Paterson Rail Motor Museum, housed in the historic Paterson Goods Yards. Located directly opposite Paterson Railway Station on the North Coast Line to Brisbane, this exceptional museum offers visitors an authentic journey through Australia's rich railway heritage. Easily accessible via Church Street, the museum showcases an impressive collection of rail motors and rolling stock. Open days are on the 3rd Sunday of the month. On Open Days, we run one of our beautiful heritage rail motors on a return journey to Dungog. Explore the beautifully restored 1930s historic Station Master's residence, meticulously returned to its original exterior appearance and period colour scheme by State Rail Heritage. This charming building houses captivating displays of railway memorabilia spanning both steam and diesel eras. Marvel at rare railway historical artifacts including authentic NSWGR standard block telegraph instruments and both large and miniature electric staff instruments. The museum proudly preserves one of the few remaining standard NSWGR goods sheds. The Society caters to diverse interests with day trips, specialized rail tours, and extended excursions, particularly focusing on group tours. Perfect for history buffs, families, school groups, and railway enthusiasts seeking an authentic heritage experience. The museum also features railway books for purchase, making it an ideal destination for those wanting to take home a piece of railway history.

Paterson NSW

16 km away

The Mindful Picnic at Paterson — Image credit: Artful Awareness Meditation

Spas and Retreats

The Mindful Picnic

You’re invited to try a smorgasbord of snack-sized meditations to try different styles and experience their benefits. These sessions are enriched with the local area's art, food and wine, all set against the stunning natural backdrop of the Williams River. These intimate gatherings are designed to cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness using accessible, and practical techniques supported by science. Each session includes just 10 participants, so you can enjoy a more personal experience from the experienced meditation guide.

Paterson NSW

16 km away

Paterson Road Bridge

Landmarks and Buildings

Paterson Road Bridge

The iron lattice bridge over the Paterson River south of the town of Paterson was built in 1887. Despite the dominance of timber bridges in the area, there were rivers whose sizes and flood histories required much larger spans in order to maximise the clear waterway. From 1870 to 1893 lattice bridges from England and Belgium were the choice for these major bridges for both road and rail. There are five bridges of this type in the Hunter Region — the Paterson River Bridge and four over the Hunter River. There were only two styles built. Up until 1876 the bridges were deep and had vertical ends, then J.A. MacDonald revised the design and produced a shallower depth and introduced gracefully curved ends, as was the case with the Paterson Bridge. The bridge replaced a punt that went across the river slightly upstream. This bridge on Paterson Road provides access to the eastern side of the river and valley, ultimately to Woodville and Wallalong.

Paterson 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

17 km away

Tocal Agricultural College — Image credit: Maitland City Council

Agritourism

Tocal Agricultural College

Tocal's excellent accommodation, catering, education and meeting facilities make it an ideal venue for conferences, seminars and training. The Campus is located in a tranquil rural setting close to transport hubs and within easy reach of the attractions of the Hunter Valley. Tocal College has modern training facilities and equipment, as well as commercial and demonstration farm enterprises including beef, dairy, sheep, horses, poultry and cropping operating on the 2200 hectare property. Facilities for College horses include a 3,850 square metre covered and enclosed soft surface riding arena, horse paddocks and yards, tack room and stables. Student facilities include individual student rooms and newly renovated bathrooms, tiered lecture theatre and classroom facilities and an extensive library with computer room facility. The campus has a kitchen and dining hall for the on campus students.

Paterson NSW

19 km away

One of Australia's oldest colonial working farms is where Tocal Homestead is situated. — Image credit: Tocal Homestead

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Tocal Homestead

Tocal Homestead has one of Australia's finest collections of colonial farm buildings dating from the 1830s. The Homestead is set among magnificent fig trees and overlooks the Tocal lagoon, with the Paterson River beyond. Built in 1840 as a country retreat for Felix Wilson, the house is only one of the fascinating buildings on this site which illustrates the changes in the land use at Tocal since 1822. Farm tours provide an opportunity to experience this beautiful property. The tour includes the beef, horse, dairy and sheep enterprises as well as the natural features of the historic landscape. Tocal is a working farm so visitors can view the seasonal activities of the farm operations.

Paterson NSW

19 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

19 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

20 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

20 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

20 km away

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