Gunnedah Visitor Guide by gunnedahshire

Gunnedah New South Wales

Welcome to Gunnedah Yaama, we welcome you to Gunnedah, a place that features the best of the country lifestyle – brilliant skies, homemade goodies, cafes and friendly smiles – with a vibrant community. We hope you will love discovering all our beautiful region has to offer.

To Melbourne

Getting here Contact us 81 Chandos Street Gunnedah 2380 1800 KOALAS . 02 6740 2230 tourism@infogunnedah.com.au

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Chat to a friendly local at the Visitor Information Centre, located at the heart of town in the Cultural Precinct building.

gift wifi coffee malefemale wheelchair caravan

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@gunnedahnsw #visitgunnedah

Local produce, souvenir and gift shop

Acknowledgement of Country

Free wi-fi

We acknowledge the Kamilaroi Aboriginal Nation as the traditional custodians of the land on which we live, work and play. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.

Refreshment kiosk CIVIC cinema

Toilets

This publication has been produced and published on behalf of Gunnedah Shire Council and the tourism industry. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this publication at the time of printing, Gunnedah Shire Council assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions that may have occurred. Information is subject to change without notice. All copy, images, design and artwork remain the property of Gunnedah Shire Council and may not be reproduced in part or whole without the written permission of Gunnedah Shire Council.

The Rainbow Serpent, Mooki and Red Gum murals

Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery Stop in to the Visitor Centre to see what’s on offer today, with a calendar of deals, free group Town Tours and local produce tastings, along with specialist local advice.

Arts Gunnedah Gallery Event facilities Caravan parking

By road

approx driving time

Sydney

5 hours

Brisbane

7.5 hours

Coffs Harbour

4.5 hours

Newcastle

3.5 hours

Dubbo

2.5 hours

Armidale

2 hours

Tamworth

1 hour

Narrabri

1 hour

Coonabarabran

1 hour

Quirindi

1 hour

By rail The Country Link Explorer train services Gunnedah to and from Sydney daily. For more information call 13 22 32.

By air Tamworth Regional Airport has regular passenger flights which operate several times daily to and from Sydney and Brisbane. The airport is an easy 1 hour drive from Gunnedah. For more information call 1300 733 625

By coach The Dubbo-Tamworth Coach Service operates Monday to Friday via Gunnedah. This service is operated by NSW Trainlink, for more information call 13 22 32. visitgunnedah.com.au

A history of Gunnedah

Gunnedah through the years

By Ron McLean It’s a big land, a land of far horizons. It’s a land of plenty, of foreboding power and striking beauty, of deep chocolate soils and wispy plains grass. Of quiet bush and deep blue lines of hills, of brilliant sunrise and soft dusk, of bustling progress and eerie vastness. Flood and drought and fire have been part of nature’s flash dance in the Big Land – from the beginning of time, thousands of years before settlement, even by Aboriginal tribes. Down through the years, Gunnedah has been a microcosm of the Australian way of life, a tiny speck on a giant’s canvas. Generations of people have played out their lives here, each life a unique event, of triumph and tragedy, of good times and bad, of joy and heartbreak on the road to eternity. Through it all, the land endures. Man is finite, ephemeral. But My Country, Our Country, is timeless. This is Gunnedah, the Sunburnt Country.

1645 – 1745

Estimated lifespan of Cumbo Gunera (Red Kangaroo) legendary chief of the Gunn-e-darr tribe

1818

Explorer John Oxley passed through the district

1856

First Post Office established, called The Woolshed until 1859

1877

Coal discovered in Black Jack Hill (now Blackjack Mountain)

1879

North West railway line extended to Gunnedah, official opening of station

1882

First hospital opened with six beds

1884

Cohen’s Bridge opened at a cost of £13,256

1888

First agricultural show

1890

Bacon and Co. sheep and cattle yards established on Curlewis Road

1893

Beginnings of town water supply

1900

Foundation stone laid for Town Hall

1908

Town water and electricity supply established. My Country by Dorothea Mackellar first published

1915

First shire sale yards established, known as the Shire Yards

1925

Major fire in Conadilly Street

1951

Official opening of Gunnedah Aerodrome

1955

Gunnedah War Memorial Pool opened Worst floods in living history

1960

Official opening of Keepit Dam

1965

Snow falls in Gunnedah

1973

AgQuip launched

1980

Gunnedah Water Tower Museum opened

1983

Dorothea Mackellar Memorial in Anzac Park opened

1984

The Red Chief Memorial was unveiled in Abbott Street

1987

Opening of Creative Arts Centre

1992

Vickery Open Cut Mine opens

1997

Local teenager Miranda Kerr wins the annual Dolly magazine/Impulse model competition

2019

Vietnam War mural at the Gunnedah Water Tower Museum completed Tambar Springs local, Tom Gleeson wins the Gold Logie Award for Most Popular Personality on Australian Television

2020

$61m Gunnedah rail overpass opens Gunnedah rugby player Harry Wilson made his debut for the Wallabies

2021

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Dorothea Mackellar mural at Gunnedah Maize Mills completed visitgunnedah.com.au

Seasonal highlights

Village highlights

The rainbow horizon throughout the year reflects the abundance of the region as crops move from paddocks to plates and into our wardrobes – from vibrant golds and yellows of sunflowers, canola and wheat to fluffy white clouds of cotton, sunset orange sorghum, luscious greens and surprising violet flashes of wildflowers in between.

Gunnedah Shire is home to six beautiful surrounding villages, each with something unique to offer.

Summer

Autumn

What’s on

REFER TO MAP #2 FOR LOCATIONS

Some special highlights of each area include:

Breeza

Carroll

Curlewis

Sunflowers, maize, beans, wheat, sorghum, cotton

Sunflowers, olives, honey, soya beans, mung beans, sorghum, cotton, corn

Beautiful vistas of the open fertile cropping country Ben Hall’s Wall Superman Returns Barn

Carroll Community Ground, Carroll Cotton Gin and Lake Keepit

Spot a koala! Curlewis Campdraft Ground The Commercial Hotel

Winter

Spring

Kelvin

Mullaley

Tambar Springs

What’s on

What’s in

Boonalla Aboriginal Area and Farm Gate Sales

150o East Meridian and Mullaley Post Office Hotel

Tambar Springs War Memorial, The Diprotodon and The Royal Hotel

Australia Day Celebrations, Christmas Fair, Gunnedah Christmas Races

What’s in

AgQuip, Gunnedah Gold Cup, NightQuip, Keepit Kool Sailing Regatta, Soundowner Road Race

Citrus, vegetables

map

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Weeks of Speed, Gunnedah Show, Bird Sale Expo

What’s in

Q15

Q10

N12

Harvest Festival, eIMEx, Gumtree Shoot, Northwest Swap Meet

Canola, garlic, barley, oats, chickpeas, faba beans, grains, wildflowers

F12

E18

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While you are here... There are so many ways you can spend your time in Gunnedah – cruising country roads exploring new places, gazing out across the beautiful landscape, taking in a movie at our Civic cinema. Open your mind to new adventures. To get you started, we have a few suggestions about how you might want to discover our Shire.

A day out in Gunnedah You can make a day out in Gunnedah one to remember. Watch the sunrise – Early risers, why not get up early and head to Pensioners Hill? It is less than a five minute drive along the Oxley Highway to Lloyd Road. Leave your car at the gate and wander up the hill along a walk with rock sculptures depicting people and characters with special meaning for Gunnedah and its Indigenous history. At the top is a lookout where you can soak in wonderful views and watch daybreak over Gunnedah.

Half a day in Gunnedah So you only have half a day to spend here – there is still plenty you can pack into a short time.

Breakfast – Where to choose? Gunnedah’s Conadilly Street features a number of boutiquestyle cafés where you can sit and watch the world go by. Whatever the season, pull up a chair and get to know the locals.

Discover your country – Close by the Water Tower Museum is the Mackellar Centre dedicated to poet Dorothea Mackellar. If you are visiting mid-week, you can see memorabilia of Dorothea and take a look at the beautiful Jean Isherwood Water Colour Collection depicting “My Country”.

Giant art – Gunnedah Shire loves its art – on a giant scale! You can go for a short drive that will take you from a 29m high stunning sepia mural of the famous poet Dorothea Mackellar and her poem “My Country” at the Gunnedah Maize Mill in Barber Street, to a moving depiction of scenes from the Vietnam War along the circular walls of the Water Tower Museum.

Travel back in time – Along the Mullaley Road \ Oxley Highway is one of Australia’s largest collections of early household, agriculture and transport memorabilia. The Gunnedah Rural Museum has plenty for the whole family, with more than 23,000 exhibits from times gone by, from steam engines to firearms, and a working model railway.

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Café culture – Whether it’s eggs benedict you fancy or a traditional sausage roll, you will find it in Conadilly Street. Grab a newspaper and spend an hour with brekky and a great coffee or wander along the town’s main street. Retail therapy – Gunnedah has a thriving and vibrant main street and offers a unique shopping experience. Beautiful clothing boutiques, local gifts, artwork and jams at Plains of Plenty, country clothing and gifts galore – there is so much to see. Get your art on – The Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Centre in Chandos Street is not only the home of the Visitor Information Centre with a great selection of giftware and souvenirs, but also houses the cinema and two galleries. The main gallery hosts visiting and local exhibitions. There is always something new to view. The front gallery is the home of Arts Gunnedah and showcases the work of Gunnedah Shire artists of all kinds.

Plates and palettes – To continue the art theme, the Work of Art Community Gallery houses beautiful exhibitions in one of Gunnedah’s historic homes in Barber Street. You can even stay for lunch at the Palette Café, and enjoy a dining experience surrounded by art and colour. A quiet drive – You don’t even have to get out of the car to view Gunnedah’s giant attractions. Cruise alongside the Dorothea Mackellar mural by well-known artist Heesco at the Gunnedah Maize Mill in Barber Street and then continue on to South Street to take in scenes from the Vietnam War on the sides of the Water Tower Museum. Close by is Anzac Park featuring a statue of poet Dorothea Mackellar. Natural high – One of Gunnedah’s favourite places is Porcupine Lookout, off Apex Road. You can drive to the peak, or you can truly experience Gunnedah’s wildlife by walking one of the meandering tracks that lead to the top. The Bindea Walking Track from the lookout includes two walks of varying difficulty and length. On any of the walks, you might spot a koala up above you. Porcupine not only gives you a bird’s eye view of the town, but far beyond to the Nandewar Ranges, over 100 kilometres away. Evening out – Enjoy Gunnedah’s culinary variety through the versatile food offerings at Pubs and Restaurants. visitgunnedah.com.au

Things you should know about Gunnedah Gunnedah Shire includes Gunnedah township and the surrounding villages of Breeza, Carroll, Curlewis, Kelvin, Mullaley and Tambar Springs.

Day 2 in Gunnedah Yes, we definitely recommend a two day stay in and around Gunnedah! We have introduced you to some of what Gunnedah has to offer on a one-day itinerary, but you have only just begun. Here are two different ways you might spend your second day… Discovery trails – If you would like to explore the famous farming country surrounding Gunnedah, there are a number of roads you can take. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a bit of a browse in Gunnedah before heading along the Kamilaroi Highway and further into koala country towards Curlewis. It’s a true country village and it is worth going for a wander to enjoy the country air and see if you can spot a koala. Curlewis has the warm and welcoming Commercial Hotel offering great meals and a chance to yarn with the locals. Head further out towards Breeza and you will see the magnificent farmland of the Liverpool Plains, known as Australia’s food bowl. At different times of year you will see different crops – you might even find some beautiful sunflowers! Another beautiful drive is along the Oxley Highway to Mullaley. Why not take a turn to the left and visit Tambar Springs, a small rural village on the Black Stump Way. Located against the backdrop of Tambar Mountain, part of the ancient Warrumbungle Range, Tambar Springs is where the skeleton of a Diprotodon Optatum, the largest known marsupial from the cenozoic era, was found in 1979. You can see the skeleton at the Coonabarabran Visitor information Centre. Enjoy lunch at the Royal Hotel in Tambar Springs, or on the way back, the Mullaley Post Office Hotel is a great family pub with counter meals and plenty of atmosphere – perfect for a lunch stop. 10

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Spreading your wings – Not too far from Gunnedah’s town centre is Lake Keepit. It’s about half an hour upstream and is the home of both water and air sports in the region. Keepit is the perfect place for bike riding, kayaking, fishing, boating, swimming, water skiing, camping and picnicking. It is home to Reflections Holiday Park, and the mini-water park, BMX track, tennis and volleyball courts and skate park are open to day visitors – if you want to stay longer, check out the range of accommodation options.

Gunnedah Shire is in one of the richest food bowls in Australia, with agricultural farming land covering approx. 403,000 hectares.

Local miller Wholegrain Milling produces some of the finest organic and sustainable flour which is used by some of Sydney’s top chefs!

The Namoi River’s course is 708 kilometres long.

Gunnedah Saleyards is one of the biggest in NSW, selling over 150,000 cattle a year. Gunnedah is home to Australia’s largest field days, AgQuip attracting over 100,000 visitors annually.

Gunnedah’s agricultural industry is primarily proteins and fibres. In 1979 the remains of a ‘Diprotodon Optatum’ the largest known marsupial was discovered near Tambar Springs. This particular specimen was dated approximately 33,500 years old and the skeleton and skull of the Diprotodon can be viewed at the Coonabarabran Information Centre.

The Lake Keepit Soaring Club is the ideal venue to learn to fly gliders, or you could learn to sail at the Lake Keepit Sailing Club. Lake Keepit is a great day out and hosts a number of colourful events throughout the year, including sailing regattas, gliding regattas and holiday events. Pick yourself up some tasty treats from one of Gunnedah’s many cafes and enjoy a beautiful day out with a picnic or barbecue.

Wherever your Gunnedah wanderings take you, don’t hesitate to ask a local what there is to see and do – and what they love about living in Gunnedah!

Kookaburra cricket balls are made exclusively with Gunnedah leather and are Gunnedah Leather Processor’s only Australian customer.

The Moonbi Range stretches for 150 kilometres across the Northern Tablelands of NSW, forming part of the Great Diving Range. Gunnedah’s Black Jack Mountain forms the highest point of the Moonbi Range at 1,300m elevation.

Dedicated in 1919, Tambar Springs is home to one of Australia’s oldest war memorials.

Beautiful silo art at Gunnedah Maize Mill depicts the poet Dorothea Mackellar and her famous poem “My Country”.

The bricks lining Conadilly Street are handmade by local business Namoi Valley Bricks. They are the only producer in the region who make curved bricks, which can only be made by hand.

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phone If you spot an injured koala or native animal, call WIRES Wildlife Rescue on 1300 094 737

Koala facts Did you know Gunnedah koalas are greyer in colour and smaller than koalas in Southern Australia? This is likely to be an adaptation due to hotter and drier weather “Guda” is the word for koala in Gamilaraay, the local Aboriginal dialect of the Kamilaroi Nation Koalas are nocturnal marsupials and carry their young in a pouch Koalas aren’t bears - they’re marsupials! Have two thumbs on their front paws- to help them climb, to hold on to the trees and to grip their food

Our Koalas

Wild koalas are often spotted at:

Gunnedah is privileged to be home to a native koala population and growth of the natural habitat is encouraged by local Landcare groups and landholders of this threatened Australian icon.

Porcupine Lookout

Native colonies are nurtured by planting tree corridors throughout the township and the Shire, allowing the koalas safe access in and around the town. Seeing a koala in Gunnedah prior to the 1980s was unusual, however increased habitat in the area encouraged the population. Sadly, there has been a sharp decline in the population since 2009, with many factors contributing to this. To protect our beloved species into the future, a Koala Sanctuary and hospital is currently being developed to provide much needed specialist care and facilities within the region. The centre is planned to be opened in 2022. 12

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Anzac Park

Gunnedah Golf Course Stock Road walking/cycle way TAFE Campus PCYC / Hunter Street Cemetery Curlewis The Showground area near the Kennel Club grounds

Exciting news! The new Koala Sanctuary will include a Koala hospital, intensive care units, small animal enclosures, a petting zoo, a cafe, a souvenir shop, picnic areas, bush-themed minigolf and zipline, caravan sites and safari tent accommodation.

Communicate by making a noise that sounds like a snore and then belch, known as a "bellow" Spend approximately 20 hours sleeping or resting, one to three hours feeding, and one to three hours grooming, moving from tree to tree, and during the breeding season, searching for a mate There are about 600 varieties of eucalyptus. Koalas Australia-wide feed from only about 120 of these trees An adult Koala eats about ½-1 kilogram of leaves each night Can run on the ground at around 32km/hour, and if frightened, can leap up a tree in 2 metre bounds The closest relative to the koala is the wombat Are territorial of their own ‘home range’ trees which can cover large stretches of land Have poor eyesight and generally detect predators by sound

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Explore and play Nature and parks Gunnedah is home to many sporting clubs and great facilities in our region. There are two town trails that you can walk or ride along, taking in the many beautiful parks and scenery in Gunnedah township. Golf Club Cycle Circuit 30 minutes, novice, mostly flat Parks Push and Pedal Circuit 50 minutes, novice, mostly flat

map REFER TO MAP #1 AND #2 FOR LOCATIONS

#1 #1 Some of the highlights along the route offer great spots to stop for lunch. Wolseley Park #1 P8 Donnelly Fields / Namoi River #1 O5 Lions Park #1 R14 Wandobah Reserve #1 G16 Gunnedah Golf Course #1 K21 Kitchener Park #1 X14 There are a range of tracks on the outskirts of town and beyond. Bindea Walking Track #1 Y27 Porcupine Lookout #1 Y27 Wallaby Trap #1 V27 Pensioners Hill Lookout #1 I9 Mullibah Lagoon #1 Y11 Blackjack State Forest #2 N5 Boonalla Aboriginal Area Skull Rock

Gunnedah Memorial Swimming Pool Gunnedah Memorial Swimming Pool is a modern, family-friendly pool complex located in the middle of town among a beautiful setting of trees and lawns. The complex underwent extensive upgrades in 2018 and includes a 50 metre outdoor pool, 25 metre indoor heated pool complex, kids water playground area, pavilion and amenities, seating and shaded grassland areas. For more information call 02 6740 2215 14

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Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground Located centrally on the corner of Conadilly and Chandos Streets, Livvi's Place is a unique play space for children of all ages and abilities. Amongst the park’s many features are a flying fox, a 'koala' tree house, sensory garden, accessible seating, pathways and BBQ spaces, musical equipment, a water-based sandpit, wheelchair friendly trampolines and grassed areas. There is ample parking, public toilets, bike racks and easy access to dining and shopping within close vicinity of the playground.

Lake Keepit Two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour, Lake Keepit has great range of activities and adventures for all ages. Located just 25kms drive from Gunnedah, Lake Keepit is a family day-trip destination of choice for locals. Lake Keepit is a popular destination for a variety of water sports. Boating, fishing, water-skiing and sailing are all firm favourites. Keepit also offers a range of land-based activities including an enclosed kid’s waterpark, BMX track, skate park, two playgrounds and tennis court. Lake Keepit is a perfect spot to visit as part of a day trip or for overnight stays. Visitors can pack a picnic, make use of the barbeque facilities or visit the onsite kiosk. Equipment hire and event facilities are also available. Good to know: Open 7 days. Onsite accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets is available. Lake Keepit Family Fishing Club Learn to fly with the Lake Keepit Gliding Club Lake Keepit Sailing Club Lake Keepit Sport & Recreation Centre Reflections Holiday & Water Park Lake Keepit

National parks Warrumbungle Warrabah Mount Kaputar Coolah Tops

1.4 hour drive 1.5 hour drive 2 hour drive 2.15 hour drive visitgunnedah.com.au

1. Koala Area – is the most likely site to view these fascinating animals, which are commonly found in the bush land around Gunnedah. Mostly sleeping koalas may be seen in the branches of the larger trees in this area. 2. Kangaroo Viewing Point – Eastern Grey Kangaroos and the occasional Wallaroo can be viewed from this site, mostly at dawn and dusk. Kangaroos are also commonly spotted lounging in the Wallaby Trap area.

PORCUPINE TRACKHEAD

PORCUPINE LOOKOUT

WALLABY TRAP

SES RADIO TOWER TELSTRA TOWER

The Wallaby Trap area is located at the base of Porcupine Hill, and is the area used by the Gunn-e-darr people to hunt wallabies. The area was also used by Cumbo Gunnerah to ambush the invading Cassilis tribe war party.

3. Avards Lookout – offers extensive views to the east and south-east. In the far distance, the Great Dividing Range provides a backdrop to the agriculturally rich Breeza Plains. 4. Porcupine Reserve – with a total area of 198 hectares, the reserve provides a significant conversation, education and recreation resource for the Gunnedah community. 5. Porcupine Lookout – a focal point for visitors to the area, the lookout provides magnificent 300° views over Gunnedah and surrounding Shire.

BRIDGE

The site overlooks the town of Gunnedah and beyond the Breeza Plains and the Nandewar Ranges. It derives its name from the Kamailaroi people who called it Bindea – meaning the place where spinifex and shrubs with thorns like porcupine quills grow. With its panoramic views, Bindea is an ideal lookout post for the warrior chief Cumbo Gunnerah and his men to observe the movements of any approaching rivals.

The Bindea Track is 22km in length with the Porcupine Hill section of the track being 4.5km.

AVARDS LOOKOUT

WALKING TRACK FIRE TRAILS / UNFORMED ROADS PICNIC AREA BARBEQUE

Bindea Walking Track The most spectacular way to view Gunnedah is from the Bindea Walking Track, located at Porcupine Hill overlooking the Shire. The walking track winds through bushland that is home to kangaroos and koalas. There are short walks or longer options for those who love a bushwalk adventure. Pack your water bottle and hat and enjoy the natural beauty of Gunnedah Shire. 16

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Kamilaroi country

Boonalla Aboriginal area Located 20kms north of Gunnedah in the Tulcumba Range. The park protects the significant cultural history of the Kamilaroi people and is a space for people to come together, learn, rediscover and reflect. On the 1hr 20mins return to Boonalla Cave you are very likely to spot kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas, and if you’re very lucky, you might also spot the rarer native fauna species including koala, spotted-tail quoll, king parrot and border tick-tailed gecko. 197 native flora species also dot the landscape. Once at the top of the ridge, Boonalla Cave appears as a strong physical presence both geologically and culturally. It is one of the few known roosts for the eastern cave bat in New South Wales. Please note the cave is not accessible for the public in order not to disturb the bats, and it is not safe structurally.

map Welcome to Kamilaroi country

As it is a culturally significant site, please be respectful and help preserve the Aboriginal cultural values of the area.

REFER TO MAP #1 AND #2 FOR LOCATIONS

Good to know: The picnic area offers BBQ facilities and toilets and is a good bird watching area. It is best to visit in fine weather. Take plenty of water and a map, available from the Visitor Information Centre.

The Gunnedah Shire is the traditional land of the Gunn-e-darr people of the Kamilaroi Tribe. The traditional language spoken is known as Gomeroi (or commonly Gamilaraay). The name Gunnedah originates from the ‘Gunn-e-darr’ people and is thought to mean the ‘Place of White Stones’. Cumbo Gunnerah (also known as the Red Kangaroo or Red Chief) was a clever chief and mighty warrior. Legend has it that Cumbo Gunnerah defeated a large opposing Aboriginal tribe with only a handful of warriors by leading them in to the ‘Wallaby Trap’, a natural trap created by the land form and vegetation and used by the Kamilaroi Tribe to hunt wallabies – which is at the base of the Porcupine Lookout.

Take a self-guided tour through the culturally significant sites of the Kamilaroi people. Red Chief Monument Boonalla Aboriginal Area Mullibah Lagoon Pensioners Hill Lookout – Dhuyul Wayamaagu Wallaby Trap Bindea Walking Track Booroobil Rock (Skull Rock) Scarred Trees Barber’s Lagoon The Rainbow Serpent Mooki and Red Gum Murals

#1 T11 #2 N5 #1 Y11 #1 I9 #1 V27 #1 V27 #2 Q9 #1 Q10 #1 Q10

Many of these sites are sacred and hold special meaning, please be respectful, take only photos and leave only footprints. 18

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For more information on the management of Boonalla Aboriginal Area visit www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/ visit-a-park/parks/boonalla-aboriginal-area.

Fast facts The Kamilaroi people represent the second largest tribe in NSW

The Gunn-e-darr people were known for carving and weaving

Boonalla Aboriginal Area covers 2310ha. Archaeological surveys have recorded 430 artefacts at the entrance of Boonalla Cave which dates human occupation at the cave to at least 4,300 years

Gunnedah is located on the Kamilaroi Highway, the first Aboriginal named highway in Australia. kamilaroihighway.com. For more details, see the Visitor Information Centre visitgunnedah.com.au

Arts, museums and galleries Our diverse community is reflected in our rich cultural life in Gunnedah Shire. The talents of our people, past and present, are represented in events, activities and a wealth of places to visit.

map REFER TO MAP #1 FOR LOCATIONS

The Red Chief Kambu Gunirah The Red Chief memorial is located close to the CBD in Abbott Street, in front of the NSW Government offices. It commemorates the burial place of Kamilaroi warrior Cumbo Gunnerah - the Red Chief. In 1984 a memorial sculpture, designed by Dennis Adams in consultation with local First Nations peoples and the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service, was erected to mark the burial site. It is believed to be the first memorial established in honour of an Aboriginal historical identity. Yilambu giwihr gayir Kambu Gunirah gir ginyi. Ngihrngu mari ngihrma gayir Gaweh Canuhr. Ngihrma binal wuraya, wahrunggul yiliyan maringu Gunidahngu ginyi. Yirahla ganu wunda dawandah nahbu gayir gaweh Gawinbara Wuraya. 20

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In times past there was an Aboriginal man called Cumbo Gunnerah His people called him The Red Kangaroo. He was a clever chief and a mighty fighter (this man from Gunnedah) Later, the white people of this place called him The Red Chief.

Museums and galleries

The Cultural Precinct

Start with the Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery, which can be found in Gunnedah’s bustling hub the Cultural Precinct, also home to the Visitor Information Centre

Arts Gunnedah Exhibitions and Workshops Monthly Exhibitions at the Creative Arts Gallery Ceramics with The Pottery Club Live theatre performances Movie screenings

Discover Street Art The Dorothea Mackellar Silo Art Work of Art Community Gallery The Dorothea Mackellar Centre The Water Tower Museum & Silo Art Gunnedah Rural Museum

#1 L10 #1 S12 #1 S14 #1 S15 #1 G14

Visit The Cultural Precinct and Civic Theatre’s website and Facebook page to find out more about the latest exhibitions, movie screenings, live theatre, events and workshops. 02 6740 2266 | thecivic.com.au visitgunnedah.com.au

Heritage sculptures at Pensioners Hill Reserve Take a walk up Pensioners Hill and discover a collection of sandstone sculptures depicting Gunnedah's rich cultural heritage created by Carl Merten and Joan Relke. Cost: FREE

The Gunnedah Rural Museum Featuring over 23,000 artefacts, the museum is one of Australia’s largest collections of domestic agricultural and transport memorabilia. The museum houses tractors, steam engines, antique farm machinery, stationary engines, horse drawn and motorised vehicles, household items, tools and an extensive gun collection and has recently added the Don McDonagh Model Railway. A souvenir gift shop is located on site and the museum is managed entirely by volunteers. Open every day except Wed | 0479 174 625 Cost: Small entry fee

The Water Tower Museum Take a journey through three floors of displays and exhibits and discover the people, places, and events that shaped the Gunnedah community. It is the perfect place to do family research. The exterior of the water tower, originally commissioned in 1908, now features a spectacular Vietnam War Memorial mural by artist Jenny McCracken. The observatory deck on the top of the tower offers another amazing view of Gunnedah. Open Saturday 10am - 2pm or by appointment Cost: Small entry fee 0427 422 118 | gndhistsoc@gmail.com

Work of Art Community Gallery Work of Art Community Gallery is located in one of Gunnedah's 1800’s homes, re-commissioned as community art space. As well as having four different gallery areas showcasing a wide variety of art works both large and small, there is a small café and garden areas to enjoy light refreshments in the Palette Café while enjoying the cultural displays. Open: Monday - Friday from 8am - 5pm Cost: FREE | 02 6742 0549 workofartcommunitygallery.com.au 22

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Murals and street art Gunnedah is fast becoming a street art destination, with several dynamic, community driven displays to discover. CBD highlights include vibrant murals in the Conadilly Street Walkway and the award winning Rainbow Serpent Water Feature at the Cultural Precinct in Chandos Street. The sculpture brings the dreamtime story to life, incorporating 29 intricate mosaics crafted by local Kamilaroi artists. Gunnedah has two stops on the Australian Silo Art Trail. The exterior of the Gunnedah Water Tower Museum located within Gunnedah’s original water reservoir in Anzac Park - features two iconic images from the Vietnam War. The striking Dorothea Mackellar Silo Art is sure to impress, with an extract from the famous poem “My Country” immortalised on the 29 metre high Gunnedah Maize Mill. visitgunnedah.com.au

My Country Dorothea Mackellar

By arrangement with the Licensor, the Mackellar Estate, c/-Curtis Brown (Aust) Pty Ltd.

The love of field and coppice, Of green and shaded lanes. Of ordered woods and gardens Is running in your veins, Strong love of grey-blue distance Brown streams and soft dim skies I know but cannot share it, My love is otherwise.

Core of my heart, my country! Her pitiless blue sky, When sick at heart, around us, We see the cattle die – But then the grey clouds gather, And we can bless again The drumming of an army, The steady, soaking rain.

I love a sunburnt country, A land of sweeping plains, Of ragged mountain ranges, Of droughts and flooding rains. I love her far horizons, I love her jewel-sea, Her beauty and her terror – The wide brown land for me!

Core of my heart, my country! Land of the Rainbow Gold, For flood and fire and famine, She pays us back threefold – Over the thirsty paddocks, Watch, after many days, The filmy veil of greenness That thickens as we gaze.

A stark white ring-barked forest All tragic to the moon, The sapphire-misted mountains, The hot gold hush of noon. Green tangle of the brushes, Where lithe lianas coil, And orchids deck the tree-tops And ferns the warm dark soil.

An opal-hearted country, A willful, lavish land – All you who have not loved her, You will not understand – Though earth holds many splendors, Wherever I may die, I know to what brown country My homing thoughts will fly.

Famous poet Dorothea Mackellar is closely affiliated with Gunnedah, having spent a lot of time at the local family homestead Kurrumbede. Most notably, Dorothea is the author of the famous poem “My Country”, which has been immortalized in Gunnedah with a portrait of Mackellar on the 29 metre high silo artwork. The silo art is located on Barber Street, in the Gunnedah township. The Mackellar Centre in Gunnedah is the home of the Dorothea Mackellar Memorial Society and the annual Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards. The Mackellar Centre is open to the public on selected days and features a personal collection of artefacts, Jean Isherwood watercolour artworks and information. Open: Tues, Wed, Thurs or by arrangement Cost: FREE 02 6742 1200 | dorothea.com.au 24

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Gunnedah Saleyards With 12 livestock agents selling each Tuesday, Gunnedah Saleyards is on the top four in NSW. Consistently yarding over 120,000 prime beef cattle per year, the Saleyards turn over a massive historic average of $90 million annually. Visitors are welcome to absorb the atmosphere as the air buzzes with the auctioneer’s call at the sales held every Tuesday. The Gunnedah Saleyards are located on the north-western outskirts of town, beside the Kamilaroi Highway.

Agquip Field Days Tuesday to Thursday in the third week of August Agquip Field Days have been showcasing more than 3,000 products over three days in August each year since 1973. AgQuip is one of the southern hemisphere’s biggest field day events, attracting 100,000 visitors every year. Spend all day marvelling at the massive machinery, the smaller farm equipment and all the accessories, as well as a huge range of other items! Steak is the gourmet hero of the day, and you are bound to meet some friends. Entry and car parking are free. But wait, there’s more: Agquip is now complemented by NightQuip, Gunnedah’s Annual Night Market held on the first Tuesday evening of AgQuip. Indulge in late night shopping, strolling along the food and market stalls in the main street of beautiful Gunnedah, and enjoying live entertainment. It is the ideal opportunity to see what the region has to offer. 26

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Experience our local produce

map REFER TO MAP #1 AND #2 FOR LOCATIONS

Produce Wholegrain Milling Co. Reverence Sourdough Jack’s Creek Beef Oakleigh Pasture Pork Namoi Gold Olives Gumnut Gear Honey & Beeswax Wraps Carthian Hill Garlic Gunnible Oranges McKays Farm Baked Cakes Almost Home Preserves Birrawa Honey Chris Huggett Woodturning Bill Timmins Woodturning Leona Downs ‘Drought Spoons’

Gunnedah Country Markets

Food

A true country atmosphere, the markets include all sorts of handmade, homemade, home grown and pre-loved goods, natural, organic produce, arts and crafts. Gunnedah Country Markets foster a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere of creativity and enjoyment for everyone!

Strap yourself in for the ultimate pub crawl through town or grab a brew in the villages. Experience Gunnedah’s classic country hospitality by night. There is something for everyone at our local pubs, whether it’s a hearty meal, live music or a family friendly atmosphere

8am to early afternoon, 3rd Saturday Monthly Wolseley Park #1 P9

In town: The Railway Hotel The Imperial Hotel The Parkview Hotel The Gunnedah Hotel The Courthouse Hotel Gunnedah Services & Bowling Club Gunnedah Golf Club

Harvest Gunnedah Festival, October 2021 Riverside Racecourse, Gunnedah #2 N9

Producers and Makers Gunnedah Shire is a vibrant community of makers and creators; check out some of the proudly local made and grown produce and products. Keep an eye out for new produce as seasons change. Find specialty local produce at Plains of Plenty Gunnedah Visitor Information Centre 28

Products

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#1 T12 #1 Q10

Villages: The Commercial Hotel, Curlewis Post Office Hotel & Roadhouse, Mullaley Royal Hotel, Tambar Springs

#1 N11 #1 P11 #1 P10 #1 S11 #1 T12 #1 U13 #1L19

Gunnedah Leather Processors Namoi Valley Bricks Carroll Cotton Gin Namoi Mini Goats Dotti May Soap Studio Skinny Lizard Pottery Dan Birkett Woodturning Sweet Haven Scents Violette May Jewellery Sweet Threads Stockholm Florist Gemini Park Lavender Boho With Soul Spindle & Co

Conadilly Street

Gunnedah’s signature Conadilly Street experience offers a range of beautiful boutiques and stores featuring many local producers. A shopping map can be found on map #2. Fashion Boutiques Florists and Nurseries Local Produce Arts & Crafts Restaurants & Cafes

Home Décor Op Shops Chain Stores Hardware and Equipment Groceries and Convenience

Build a Local Platter Reverence Sourdough Gumnut Honey Almost Home ‘Nanna’s Relish’ McKay’s Farm Fig Jam Namoi Gold Olives visitgunnedah.com.au

Eating and drinking Restaurants, pubs and clubs

Cafes and takeaway

Central Chinese & Thai Restaurant 357 Conadilly St | 02 6742 3697

Bean & Gone Coffee Co Van 0499 435 817

Courthouse Hotel 301/307 Conadilly St | 02 6742 2144

Bitter Suite Café and Wine Bar 235 Conadilly St | 02 6742 6955

Gunnedah Chinese Restaurant 334 Conadilly St | 02 6742 0409 Gunnedah Hotel Bistro 298 Conadilly St | 02 6742 2355 Gunnedah Services & Bowling Club Bistro 313 Conadilly St | 02 6742 0400 Happy Valley Chinese Restaurant 340B Conadilly St | 02 6742 0223 Imperial Hotel Bistro 16 Chandos St | 02 6742 0176 Maverick Bistro 378 Conadilly St | 0477 921 900 Park View Hotel Bistro 141 Conadilly St | 02 6742 2212 Railway Hotel Bistro 41 Barber St | 02 6742 1558 Belmont Chinese & Thai Restaurant (Golf Club) Cnr George St and Links Rd 02 6742 7688 Soolim Korean Cuisine & Barbeque Shop 1, 80-98 Little Conadilly St 6707 8262 The Olive (at Courthouse Hotel) 301 Conadilly St | 02 6742 2144 Thub Thim Thai Restaurant 197 Conadilly St | 02 6742 5157 Vita Restaurant (at Gunnedah Hotel) 298 Conadilly St | 02 6742 2355

Villages Carroll Store 70 Breeza St, Carroll | 02 6743 1700 Commercial Hotel Curlewis 1 Goran St, Curlewis | 02 6744 1323 Curlewis General Store & Post Office 11 Goran St, Curlewis | 02 6744 1144 Mullaley Road House 11530 Black Stump Way, Mullaley 02 6743 7988 Post Office Hotel Mullaley 11530 Black Stump Way, Mullaley 02 6743 7820 Royal Hotel Tambar Springs 79 Tamba St, Tambar Springs 02 6744 2396 Tambar Springs General Store Pugh St, Tambar Springs | 02 6744 2361 30

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Dominos Pizza 340A Conadilly St | 02 6741 4220 Eats on Main 359 Conadilly St | 02 6742 7746 Fil-Aus Café 176 Conadilly St | 0439 365 317 Gunn Sushi Shop 3, Coles, Little Conadilly St 0401 294 500 Gunnedah Hot Bread 262-266 Conadilly St | 02 6742 7101 Jack and Jills 213 Conadilly St | 02 6742 5500 KFC 103 Conadilly St | 02 6742 3660 Kez’s Café 242 Conadilly St | 02 6742 1393 Mediterranean Banquet Kebabs 215-217 Conadilly St | 02 6707 8208 Noodle Time 289 Conadilly St | 02 6742 4252 Palette Café 118 Barber St | 02 6742 0549 Subway 180 Conadilly St | 02 6742 7300 Terry’s Pizza Civic Mall, Conadilly St | 02 6742 2406 The Chip Inn 186 Conadilly St | 02 6742 0329 The Coffee Buzz Chick 0481 966 778 The Verdict Coffee Shop 7/147 Conadilly St | 02 6742 0310 View Street Takeaway 70 View St | 02 6742 0113 Zed’s Café & Takeaway 107 Conadilly St | 02 6742 2631

24 hours Shell Service Station & Burrito Bar 1 Kamilaroi Hwy | 02 9191 9811 McDonalds Cnr Conadilly St & Elgin St 02 6742 6680 visitgunnedah.com.au

Where to rest your head

Gunnedah and the nearby villages offer a wide range of accommodation options, from Motels with ensuites and family rooms to Hotels with shared bathrooms but loads of atmosphere and history, as well as camping areas. Take your pick!

The Courthouse Hotel Gunnedah

The Gunnedah Hotel

Imperial Hotel

Mackellar Motel

Gunnedah Motor Inn

Maynestay Motel

A friendly, family safe venue right in the heart of Gunnedah that has been a part of the local community for over 100 years.

Modern en-suite and shared facility accommodation rooms available. Air conditioning, flat screen TVs and free wi-fi

Budget accommodation with limited rooms. Some air-conditioned, modern shared bathroom facilities.

Pet friendly, free Wi-Fi, free continental breakfast available daily. Offering a variety of room types including queen, family, spa and accessible options.

Free Wi-Fi and Foxtel, salt water swimming pool, kitchenette, and well appointed rooms ranging from standard to large family rooms.

Deluxe, executive, family and luxury spa rooms available with free Wi-Fi, Foxtel, comfortable appointments and kitchenette.

301/307 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 2144 courthousehotelgunnedah.com.au

298 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 2355 gunnedahhotel.com.au

16 Chandos St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 0176

342 Conadilly St, Gunnedah, (02) 6742 6838 mackellarmotel.com.au

367 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 2377 gunnedahmotorinn.com.au

380 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 7150 maynestaymotelgunnedah.com.au

Parkview Hotel

Railway Hotel

Alyn Motel

Overlander Motor Lodge

Plains Motor Inn

Red Chief Motel

Queen, double & single rooms available. Guest kitchen with fridge, toaster, microwave, tea and coffee making facilities.

Modern queen/single and twin share rooms available.

Single, double, twin and family rooms available. Outdoor swimming pool, BBQ facilities, free WiFi, flat-screen TV with cable. Accessible room available.

Pet friendly, free Wi-Fi and Foxtel, kitchenette, BBQ facilities and rooms ranging from queen to family.

Rooms range from budget to family, including free Wi-Fi and Foxtel, kitchenette, comfortable facilities, outdoor swimming pool and BBQ area.

Rooms vary from standard to deluxe, two bedroom family units (sleep 7), a two bedroom self contained unit and a well appointed disabled room.

141 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 2212

41 Barber St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 1558 railwaygunnedah.com

351 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 5028 alynmotel.com.au

111 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 2511 plainsmotorinn.com.au

28 Henry St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 0833 redchiefmotel.com.au

40 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 2677 overlandermotorlodge.com.au

Accommodation type

Hotels

Motels and motor inns

Self-contained apartments

Billabong Motel

Harvest Lodge Motel

Gunnedah Lodge Motel

Foxborough Serviced Apartments

Gunnedah Furnished Apartments

Outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, rooms ranging from single to family double with flat-screen TV, microwave, coffee + tea and air-conditioning.

Free Wi-Fi, Foxtel, pool, BBQ facilities and on-site dining. Rooms range from executive king to single with kitchenette facilities, including accessible rooms.

Free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, flat screen TV with Foxtel and very comfortably appointed rooms from single to family, including accessible rooms.

Spacious one and two bedroom units, comfortably appointed with BBQ and outdoor entertaining area.

Three modern apartments each with two bedrooms, Foxtel, BBQ facilities, fully appointed kitchen and comfortable furnishings.

Farm stays

333 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 2033 billabongmotel.net.au

404 Conadilly St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 3400 harvestlodge.com.au

Corner Abbott St/Bloomfield St, Gunnedah - (02) 6742 5116 gunnedahlodgemotel.com.au

11 Daniel Keane Crescent, Gunnedah 0428 438 030 foxboroughservicedapartments.com.au

37 Conadilly St, Gunnedah 0428 431 529 gunnedahfurnishedapartments.com.au

Villages accommodation (all RV friendly)

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Caravan and camping (all pet friendly)

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Where to rest your head

Key contacts

while you’re on the road For an emergency, dial 000 for police, fire and ambulance

Local Transport Gunnedah Taxis and Cabs (02) 6742 0066 Hopes Bus Service (02) 6742 0457

Gunnedah Serviced Apartments

Myall Springs

Gunnedah Tourist Caravan Park

Gunnedah Hospital

Three modern, self contained apartments each with two bedrooms, free Wi-Fi, bedding configurations, digital TV, and private courtyard.

For campers or overnight stays. A well-equipped cookhouse for meal preparation and a woolshed.

Pet friendly, pool, kitchen, BBQ, laundry and amenity blocks, free Wi-Fi, Swap & Go facilities and dump point. A range of accommodation options.

2 Marquis Street (02) 6741 8000

51 Henry St, Gunnedah 1800 007 142 gunnedahcaravanpark.com.au

Wildlife Rescue

Conadilly St, Little Barber St and Reservoir St, Gunnedah - 0428 435 325 gunnedahservicedapartments.com.au

3481 Rangari Rd, Gunnedah (02) 6743 3525 myallsprings.com.au

WIRES (Wildlife Information, Rescue & Education Services) 1300 094 737

Visitor Information Centre 83 Chandos Street 1800 KOALAS visitgunnedah.com.au

Pharmacies Gunnedah RV, Caravan & Camping Area

Reflections Holiday Park, Lake Keepit

Red Bank Rest Area (Oxley Highway)

Pet friendly, low cost camping for RV travellers with bathroom facilities, water, power and dump point.

Cabins, powered and unpowered sites with BBQ facilities, camp kitchen, amenities and plenty of facilities for outdoor activities.

Gunnedah Showgrounds, Oxley Hwy/South St, Gunnedah (02) 6742 1589

234 Keepit Dam Road, Keepit (02) 6769 7605 reflectionsholidayparks.com.au

A perfect free camp area just 10 minutes out of Gunnedah, the rest area is located on Oxley Highway near Redbank Road. The site offers a picnic shelter, toilets, tank water and dump point.

Karen Carter Chemist 270/274 Conadilly Street (02) 6742 0024

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Mullaley, Tambar Springs & Curlewis all have water stations

Petrol Stations Caltex – Gunnedah 21 Abbott Street (02) 6742 5733 Lowes BP Service Station 14 Abbott Street (02) 6742 5355

Veterinary Services

Mobil – Gunnedah 277 Conadilly Street (02) 6742 0575

Australia Post 300 Conadilly Street 13 13 18

1 Goran St, Curlewis (02) 6744 1323 curlewishotel.com

Gunnedah Showground South Street (Oxley Highway) South Street RV Park

Caltex Woolworths 18 Tempest Street (02) 6742 7416

Post Office

A traditional country pub with limited guest rooms available, the Commercial offers a comfortable and welcoming stay.

Lions Club Rest Area Mullaley Road (Oxley Highway)

Gunnedah Discount Drug Store 204 Conadilly Street (02) 6742 0018

Gunnedah Veterinary Hospital 14-16 Barber Street (02) 6742 1834

Commercial Hotel Curlewis

Water and Dump Points

Hopes Fuel Supplies 3 Railway Avenue (02) 6742 0391 Shell Gunnedah (24 Hours) 1 Kamilaroi Highway (02) 9191 9811

Royal Hotel Tambar Springs

Laundry

Lowes Petroleum/BP Truckstop 1 Law Close 0428 152 753

The hub of Mullaley offers a post office, hotel, caravan park, pub, service station, campsite and friendly locals.

A family hotel offering classic country hospitality, B&B facilities in standard guest rooms and caravan parking available.

Gunnedah Laundry Service 22-24 Silversmith Place 0429 423 285

NRMA Electric Vehicle Charging Station

11530 Black Stump Way, Mullaley (02) 6743 7820

79 Tamba St, Tambar Springs (02) 6744 2396

Conadilly Street Launderette 47 Conadilly Street 0409 244 383

Kepreotes Car Park, 73 Little Barber Street 1300 233 544

Post Office Hotel & Caravan Park Mullaley

… coming soon to Gunnedah