The town of Gunnedah is a small community situated in the north-east part of New South Wales. It is the local government area seat of Gunnedah Shire and recorded a population of 9,726 at the 2016 census. There are many things to do in Gunnedah, from historical museums to outdoor adventures and everything in between. There are several things to do in Gunnedah for visitors and residents alike.
History of Gunnedah
The town of Gunnedah is located on the Oxley Highway and Kamilaroi Highway, about 475 km northwest of Sydney, Australia. It is connected by railway with a daily train service. Gunnedah’s major industry is farming, with primary exports including cotton, coal, beef, lamb, and cereals. The town is also known as the “Koala Capital of the World”. Despite this claim, there are a number of concerns regarding the health of the local population.
Despite the town’s recent growth, it retains its historic charm and is a popular place to visit.
Gunnedah Rural Museum
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Gunnedah and its surrounding area, you should visit the Gunnedah Rural Museum. The museum is located on Oxley Highway in Gunnedah, and is open on any day except Good Friday and Christmas. There are also numerous other things to do in Gunnedah, including local food and shopping.
The Gunnedah Rural Museum houses one of the largest collections of early Australian agriculture and industrial history in Australia. The museum covers 14,000 square metres and has over 18,000 objects on display. The museum charges a nominal fee for admission, and volunteers will guide visitors through the exhibits. Visitors can also view the model railway operated by McDonagh, or participate in crafts and other activities. Once at the museum, make sure to bring a camera, as many exhibits are accompanied by audio guides.
Porcupine Lookout
If you’ve ever wished to witness a stunning sunset, you can head to Porcupine Lookout in Gunneadah, NSW. This scenic overlook is located only two kilometers from Gunnedah town centre, off Apex Road. A short walk from the lookout will lead you to the ruins of an old mill. There are also excellent picnic spots and other places to relax.
The lookout is situated about two kilometres from Gunnedah town centre and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is accessed via an access road built by the Gunnedah Apex Club. It is rated as a medium hike, and you’ll need to be fit in order to complete it. If you’re not sure if it’s the right trail for you, download the Pacer App to find the best walking trails near you.
Porcupine Lookout in Gunneah, NSW, offers fantastic views of the surrounding region. The Aborigines named this area Bindea, a spinifex grass. A beautiful place to visit, it offers spectacular views of the Namoi Valley. The lookout also offers many walking tracks that take you through the surrounding countryside, where you can spot koalas.
Pensioners Hill Lookout
When you visit the town of Gunnedah, NSW, be sure to go up the Pensioners Hill Lookout. This hill, which used to be a shanty town during the great depression, is home to many rock sculptures. The sculptures depict Gunnedah characters and people. They’re a great way to remember the town’s past while enjoying the view.
There are several ways to enjoy the panoramic views from the top of Pensioners’ Hill. Visitors can view the city from the lookout and picnic at one of the tables. The lookout is free, and there’s even an electric barbecue available for use. To learn more about the area, you can stop by the Gunnedah Visitors Information Centre. Listed below are some of the many things to do in Gunnedah.
The town of Gunnedah, NSW is nestled in the Liverpool Plains north of Sydney. It is a picturesque town, and a beautiful view of the town is worth a visit. The town’s sandstone sculptures were created by Carl Merten and Joan Relke and installed by the local Rotary Club. The sculptures commemorate people who are important to Gunnedah.
The Civic Centre – The Cultural Precinct
The Civic Centre – The Cultural Precimt is a multi-use arts complex which also houses the Town Hall and Civic Cinema. The venue can host a range of events, from workshops and community gatherings to professional meetings and events. There are a number of rooms in the Cultural Precinct for hire. These include the Mooki Room, which is perfect for hosting intimate gatherings, as well as the Creative Arts Gallery, which showcases the talents of local artists.
The Civic Centre – The Cultural PrecInct in Gunnedah is home to two art galleries, a small kitchen, a meeting room and an artist studio. The galleries showcase work by local artists and host changing exhibitions. There are also two community-inspired murals on the walls of the Mooki Room, which is an attractive open space. The Civic Theatre has seating for 134 people and is equipped to host various events, including music concerts and presentations.
Gunnedah Water Tower Museum
The Water Tower Museum is a historical attraction located in South Street, Anzac Park, Gunnedah NSW. Housed inside the old water tower reservoir, this museum has extensive displays, archives, and four floors. You can also climb to the observation deck. Outside, you can see murals by artist Jenny McCracken, commemorating the Vietnam War veterans who served in the region. Inside, you can learn about early Aboriginal and European history, as well as the Water Tower’s role in the development of this town.
Built in 1908, the water tower is the town’s main water reservoir. It was decommissioned in the late 1950s and repurposed as a museum. Inside, you can learn about prominent families in Gunnedah, admire historic homesteads, and explore the museum’s roof-top observation deck. The museum is open on weekends and on Anzac Day. During the day, you can tour the museum or purchase some souvenirs.
The Mackellar Centre
The Dorothea Mackellar Centre is a purpose-built cultural centre dedicated to the arts, literature, and history of the region. Located on South Street (Anzac Park), the Centre offers poetry tours and extensive archives. The Centre also hosts the annual Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards, Australia’s premier national poetry competition. A visit to the Mackellar Centre will inspire your own creativity and enlighten your sense of place.
If you’re visiting Gunnedah, NSW, be sure to take time to explore the town’s unique history. The Water Tower Museum features four floors of exhibitions, including Australian Aboriginal artifacts and war memorabilia. You can also walk along Bindea Walking Track, where you can take in the beautiful views of the Gunnedah valley. Or take the Porcupine Walk, a two-hour hike through a bush environment.
The Mackellar Centre is home to one of the oldest and most beautiful country homes in NSW. The site was constructed in the early 1900s by Sydney architect John Reid. The property includes extensive gardens, a historic train station, and outbuildings. Andrew “Boy” Charlton once worked as a jackaroo at the property before he was famous for his work at the Paris Games.
10 interesting facts about Gunnedah NSW
- Gunnedah is known as the “koala capital of the world” because it has the largest population of koalas in the world.
- The town is located in the Namoi Valley, which is a major agricultural region and is known for its cotton, wheat, and livestock industries.
- Gunnedah is home to the largest coalmine in New South Wales, the Narrabri Coal Mine.
- The town is also home to the Gunnedah Shire Council, which is the largest local government area in New South Wales by land area.
- Gunnedah has a rich cultural history and is home to the Kamilaroi people, an Indigenous Australian group.
- The town hosts the annual Gunnedah Show, which is a popular event that attracts visitors from all over the region.
- Gunnedah is located in an area that is prone to earthquakes, and the town has experienced several significant earthquakes in the past.
- The town is home to the Gunnedah Conservatorium of Music, which offers music education and performance opportunities for local residents.
- Gunnedah is located near the Warrumbungle National Park, which is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes and unique rock formations.
- The town has a strong sporting culture, with several local sporting clubs and teams competing in a range of sports including soccer, cricket, and Australian Rules football.