DUBBO
ATTRACTIONS - MAPS - EVENTS - SERVICES
welcome TO
welcome TO
The Dubbo Region is an unforgettable holiday destination, renowned for its world-class attractions, remarkable experiences, and reputation as one of the friendliest regions in New South Wales.
Whether you are embarking on the great Australian escape, a low key weekend or a last minute getaway, the Dubbo region is the place to be.
Conveniently located halfway between Brisbane and Melbourne on the cusp of three major highways (Newell, Mitchell and Golden Highways), Dubbo is a vibrant regional city on the banks the majestic Macquarie River. The region boasts a mix of stunning natural wonders, a fascinating history and burgeoning arts scene.
Dubbo is the place where you can relax and enjoy time with your family and friends, or share in a non-stop feast of discovery, learning and fun!
Dubbo is home to the internationally acclaimed Taronga Western Plains Zoo. A 5km circuit will take you on a journey through wild and wonderful bushland and introduce you to hundreds of animals from around the globe.
The Old Dubbo Gaol is one of the most popular tourist attractions in country New South Wales. The fully restored 19th century gaol is home to one of the largest displays of
animatronics and holograms, which provide a realistic and fascinating insight into a bygone era of prison life.
Your history lesson continues with a visit to the Western Plains Cultural Centre. The Centre incorporates the city’s museum, a community arts facility and an educational resource centre.
There are many beautiful parklands and gardens to see including the Dubbo Regional Botanic Gardens, Burrendong Botanic Garden & Arboretum, and the Wellington Osawano Japanese Garden.
Relax and enjoy some local wine from one of the region’s wineries and explore the Dubbo Farmer’s Market for fresh, seasonal produce on the first and third Saturday of the month.
There is so much to explore and discover in Dubbo. Stay a while and see it all!
At the Dubbo Observatory you can be an astronomer for a night and view the planets, stars and galaxies. Join one of the night sky tours to explore the universe through 6 telescopes, including the new large 17 inch telescope. Bring your DSLR camera to capture an Astro photo through the telescope. All sessions are run outdoors and at night so dress to appropriate weather conditions. Sessions are for ages 5 years and over. Book your viewing experience online.
Where History Comes to Life. Step into the past at Old Dubbo Gaol, a State Heritage-listed site where 19th century prison life comes alive. Explore the harsh realities of Australia’s prison history through immersive displays and captivating performances. Wander the historic grounds, view the gallows gallery, and uncover tales of daring escapes and condemned prisoners. For a thrill, join the Twilight Tour or brave the Beyond the Grave experience after dark. Open daily from 9:00am - 5:00pm, Old Dubbo Gaol offers an unforgettable journey into the past. Check the website for tour schedules.
A cultural hub for events, education and the creative arts, the Western Plains Cultural Centre is home to the Region’s gallery, museum and Community Art Centre.
Here you will discover exhibitions of contemporary art to local history and cultural events that speak to the many facets of society through the arts, history and performance.
Visitors can experience touring exhibitions, events and workshops that will challenge, connect and reflect our community and share in the culture of Western NSW.
Open daily from 9.00am - 4.00pm (Friday until 6.00pm). Admission is free.
Dubbo Regional Theatre & Convention Centre
Located in Dubbo’s CBD, the award-winning Dubbo Regional Theatre performing arts space features a wide variety of entertainment throughout the year. The 500 seat, fully airconditioned tiered theatre hosts local, national and international touring shows year-round.
Dubbo RSL Club Resort
Not only can you get a great meal here, the events calendar has something for everyone. With country music, tribute bands, holiday performances, comedians and hypnotists, and even pro wrestling matches, check out what’s on while you are here.
Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience
At the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience you will explore the vibrant history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and “discover our waiting room of 7.69 million square kilometres”. Here you will relive extraordinary human stories, touch and explore with interactive displays and state of the art equipment, and get up close to the aircraft and immerse yourself in the live operations.
Open daily from 9.00am - 5.00pm (Saturday until 4.00pm, Sunday until 3.00pm)
Taronga Western Plains Zoo
For an experience to remember, take the family on zoofari at Taronga Western Plains Zoo. See hundreds of rare and endangered animals in this huge open range sanctuary.
Explore the Zoo’s 5km circuit on foot, by car, or ride around on hired bikes or electric safari carts. For a special experience, book a behind the scenes tour or up-close animal encounter and meet a meerkat, giraffe or come face-to-face with a hippo.
For the ultimate zoofari, stay the night at one of the award-winning accommodation options. Open daily from 9.00am - 4.00pm
Wellington Caves
Discover the underground at Wellington Caves. Guided tours will take you through the Cathedral Cave, Gaden Cave and the Fossil and Phosphate Mine where you will be amazed by 15m tall crystal formations, intricate cave corals, 400-million-year-old marine fossils and 1-million-year-old megafauna fossils.
Channel your inner palaeontologist in the Discovery Lab and examine ancient fossils and inspect Australian megafauna with the fossil finding tools. Café and gift shop at the Visitor Experience Centre. Open daily from 9.00am - 4.15pm
Toyama Osawano Japanese Garden
The Wellington Osawano Japanese Garden, located next to the Wellington Caves, is a lovely spot for a picnic before or after a tour of the caves. You can enjoy the tranquil setting ideal for relaxation, a winding stream and reflection pool beneath a shaded pavilion where impressive koi fish swim in the pond.
Burrendong Dam
Referred to as ‘The Dam’, Burrendong Dam is one of the largest inland dams in NSW and is popular for water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking and stand up paddleboarding.
With seven different fish species to catch, bring along your fishing gear.
The dam is also a great spot for a scenic hike where you can spot the native Australian animals found in the region.
Dubbo Heritage Walk
Follow in the footsteps of the area’s pioneers with the assistance of the Dubbo Heritage Walk Guide. Steeped in history, Dubbo has an intriguing past, from bushrangers and underworld figures to renowned architects and ornate buildings. Drop into Dubbo Visitors Information Centre to pick up the Dubbo Heritage Walk brochure.
Nature Trails Mount Arthur Reserve
Get amongst nature along the trails of Mount Arthur Reserve. Six marked walking trails, varying in length and difficulty, are available within the Reserve.
The Apex Trail is a favourite and a nice, easy bush walk of around 3.5km with several excellent lookouts and views to stop and rest. There are 8 mountain bike trails.
Explore the beauty of nature at the Burrendong Botanic Garden & Arboretum which showcases one of the largest collections of Australian plants in cultivation. With 50,000 flowering plants, shrubs, and trees from more than 2,000 species growing on 164 hectares, the Burrendong Botanic Garden & Arboretum is dedicated to the conservation of Australia’s unique and incredibly diverse flora.
A must-do is a stroll through Fern Gully, which was once a dry bush gully that has been transformed into a man-made rainforest situated beneath an enormous thatched canopy.
Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden
The Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden is a beautiful landscape with four distinctive garden spaces, including the Shoyoen authentic Japanese Garden, the Biodiversity Garden, the Sensory Garden and the cool surrounds of Oasis Valley.
Cameron Park
Enjoy a picnic, relax under the shade of towering leafy trees, or take a leisurely stroll through the stunning gardens. The park also features modern playground equipment suitable for children of all ages and abilities.
Dubbo Regional Adventure Playground
With a flying fox, giant slide and basket swing, the kids will have a blast at the Dubbo Adventure Playground. Suitable for all ages and abilities there are BBQs, toilets and accessible elements including a wheelchair friendly Liberty Swing, plus a senior’s fitness area.
Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre
Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre offers endless fun for everyone. With an Olympic-sized pool, leisure pool, water slides, and a massive splash park for the kids, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy.
Elston Water Park
Aquatic fun at Elston Park Water Park in the heart of Dubbo. This family recreation area features a playground, expansive lawn areas, free electric BBQ’s, public amenities, and seasonal waterpark.
Dundullimal Homestead
Located in a tranquil rural setting, explore Dundullimal Homestead’s beautifully conserved buildings, which are an iconic Australian treasure, and a unique example of financial and social success in the late 1800s. Enjoy a bite to eat at the cafe. Dog friendly grounds (on leash).
Dubbo Farmer’s Market
Explore the region’s fresh, seasonal produce from local producers with a range of fresh produce, herbs and plants, baked goods, local meats, award-winning olive oils, preserves, honey, wine, nuts and more. First and third Saturdays of the month 8am til 12pm.
Dubbo Tenpin Bowl
Fun for the whole family Dubbo Tenpin Bowl has 18 lanes, auto scoring & bumpers, pool & air hockey tables, electronic dart board, video games & prize machines. Glow Bowling lights on every weekend and during all school holidays.
Dubbo Golf Club
This lush 27-hole championship golf course is an inland oasis abundant with native flora and wildlife. The inland oasis golf course hosts 11 waterways to guarantee a challenging and scenic round. Ideal for the avid competitor and social golfer alike. Fully licensed clubhouse with delicious Chinese cuisine.
Head behind bars and experience prison life in the 19th century at Old Dubbo Gaol.
The State Heritage listed site which remains intact and restored, unearthing powerful moments in Australian prison history. There is so much history amongst these walls. Wander the cellblocks and sandstone walls, look out over the gallows and take in the bird’s-eye view from the watchtower. Experience the stories of life in the dark cells, tales of prisoners who served time and discover the graffiti they carved into the walls. Explore the Gallows Gallery which features the largest collection of hangman ropes in Australia, the original gallows and multimedia displays telling tales of the Gaol’s colonial past.
During School Holidays the Old Dubbo Gaol comes to life with costumed characters and daring escape attempts. For After Dark entertainment, prepare for a thrilling adventure! The guides will keep you on the edge of your seat - are you up for the challenge? The Twilight Tour offers engaging fun for the whole family, while the Beyond the Grave tour ventures into the eerie, torch-lit cells for an exhilarating experience.
Guided tours available, see website for details and times around performances, especially around school holidays and long weekends.
At Taronga Western Plains Zoo you’ll find yourself surrounded by magnificent wildlife in wide open plains.
Whether you walk or ride around on hired bikes or carts, Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a fun place to spend time with the family, away from it all. Home to hundreds of animals including giraffes, rhinos, elephants and big cats, the zoo is widely recognised as Australia’s greatest open range zoo.
A full daily schedule of keeper activities and special tours, such as Animal Encounters and Early Morning Walks (costs are in addition to admission), deliver magical up close animal experiences you will never forget.
For the ultimate adventure, stay the night and wake up in the wild at Zoofari Lodge, Billabong Camp or the Savannah Cabins. For hungry humans, the zoo boasts two cafés and takeaway outlets as well as barbecue facilities. Open 9am – 4pm, 365 days of the year (public holidays included). Buy tickets online or as part of the multi-ticket Great Big Adventure Pass. For more information, visit www.taronga.org.au/dubbo-zoo
An interactive exploration into the world of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Experience the stories and challenges of heroic doctors, nurses, pilots and outback communities across vast Australian remote areas and live each moment as they deliver urgent medical care across a 7.69 million square km ‘waiting room’, the Australian outback. The centre covers a broad range of interactive experiences including aviation, communication, history, healthcare and more where you can immerse yourself in the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Relive extraordinary human stories, touch, explore and interact with state of the art technology, interactive displays, augmented reality, and get up close to the aircraft and experience the live operations.
Enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat at the RFDS owned Outback Trek Café or purchase a memento at the merchandise store.
Open 7 days, Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 4pm, Sunday 9am – 3pm
The story of Dubbo is filled with boom times and calamity, surging floods, infamous deeds and rough justice.
The Tubba-Gah People of the Wiradjuri Nation are Dubbo’s traditional owners. You’ll find many iconic sites, landmarks and events across the city that represent Aboriginal tradition and heritage. In 1817, John Oxley led an expedition into the fertile Wiradjuri lands. Oxley noted that the area was ideal for grazing and agriculture, however his account of sleepless nights, disrupted by the distant howls of wild dingoes, highlighted the region’s untamed origins.
A decade later, Robert Dulhunty arrived and chose a large stretch of grazing land and named it Dubbo, which in the Wiradjuri language means ‘red earth’. The settlement had a slow start, but it proved lucrative during the Victorian gold strikes of the 1850s. In 1966, Dubbo was declared a city.
Learn more about Dubbo’s history by visiting the Western Plains Cultural Centre. Dundullimal Homestead, located just south of Dubbo, provides a snapshot of Australia’s pioneering past. The Dundullimal Homestead is open Monday, Friday, Saturday 11am –3pm (last entry 2pm).
Wellington offers breathtaking natural beauty and a mining history dating back more than 200 years.
Located at the base of Mount Arthur Reserve where the Bell and Macquarie Rivers meet, Wellington is within a one hour drive of Dubbo, and an easy 4.5 hour drive from Sydney or Canberra. and is within a one-hour drive of Dubbo, Mudgee, Orange and Parkes.
Trek back in time and venture through a well-preserved slice of prehistoric history at the Wellington Caves and Phosphate Mine. Look up and then keep looking up at the Altar, a spectacular 15-metre stalagmite in the Cathedral Cave. Book your guided tour at the Wellington Caves Complex. There are three significant cave sites underground and above ground you can grab a magnifying glass and examine fossils from a million years ago in the Discovery Lab. You can grab a bite to eat at the Visitor Experience Centre.
While you’re at the caves, stroll over to the Toyama Osawano Japanese Garden and bask in its tranquillity. Alternatively pack your clubs and enjoy a round of golf at the golf course.
Adventure beckons at Lake Burrendong or ‘the dam’ as it’s known to locals. Spike the adrenaline in the warmer months and try your hand at water skiing, wake boarding or biscuiting.
If throwing a leisurely line in the waters is more your speed, you may just take home the big one with seven different fish species to catch.
Mingle with Mother Nature at the 164 hectare Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum. Wander through Fern Gully, a man-made rainforest situated beneath an enormous suspended, thatched canopy – it’s a bona fide nature lover’s paradise.
Make sure you head to Mount Arthur Reserve for a spot of bush walking or mountain bike riding. There are six walking trails of varying lengths and difficulties offering spectacular views over Wellington and the Bell and Macquarie Rivers.
When you’ve had your fill of adventure, hang your hat in town and enjoy a dose of good old-fashioned country hospitality.
Wonder at the natural beauty of the Wellington Caves.
Discover the underground and take a guided tour through the significant cave sites of Cathedral Cave, Gaden Cave and the Fossil and Phosphate Mine where you will be amazed by 15m tall crystal formations, intricate cave corals, 400-million-year-old marine fossils and 1-million-year-old megafauna fossils.
Just like a palaeontologist you can grab a magnifying glass and examine fossils from a million years ago in our Discovery Lab and inspect Australian megafauna through a lens. The Discovery Lab has all the tools for fossil finding, so dig in and see what you discover!
The Caves Visitor Experience Centre features a cafe and the new Ancient Landscapes Gallery. Here you can interact with ancient marine creatures, stand next to life sized Diprotodon and uncover the local Wiradjuri stories of the caves.
Open 7 days – 9am to 4.15pm
Great Big Adventure
Stock up on family fun with a Great Big Adventure Pass, a multi-ticket to Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Old Dubbo Gaol, the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience and the Wellington Caves.
Book online at greatbigadventurepass.com.au to save approximately 20% on entry across all four attractions.
Macquarie River Loop via Tracker Riley Cycleway
Distance: 5.5 km
Difficulty: Easy
This easy loop trail in Dubbo begins and ends at the picnic area near Ollie Robbins Oval, though you can start at any point along the circuit.
Winding alongside the Macquarie River, this relaxing loop is perfect for the entire family, with opportunities to turn back or shorten your walk if needed. The trail follows the Tracker Riley Cycleway, making it ideal for people of all ages, whether you’re biking or walking.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Distance: 6 km
Difficulty: Moderate
In addition to its amazing wildlife, Taronga Western Plains Zoo covers 6km of walking (with many stops) that takes you through the entire zoo. This scenic path allows you to explore all the exhibits at your own pace while enjoying the various amenities, including cafes, picnic areas, and public restrooms along the way.
It’s a perfect way for the whole family to get up close to incredible animals, with Zoo Keeper presentations and educational signs providing insights throughout your journey. The trail ensures a fun and informative experience as you stroll through the zoo’s diverse habitats.
Tracker Riley Cycleway via Macquarie RiveR
Distance: 20.9 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting near Apex Oval, this expansive loop of the Tracker Riley Cycleway winds along the Macquarie River foreshore and takes you into Dubbo’s CBD, passing by the Taronga Western Plains Zoo along the way.
Ideal for families, this ride can be adjusted to suit any skill level, with the option to shorten the route or start at various points for a more flexible experience.
Beni State Conservation Area Circuit
Distance: 11.3 km
Difficulty: Moderate
The Beni State Conservation Area Circuit offers a peaceful walk, run, or ride through tranquil bushland near Dubbo. As you travel along the well-maintained tracks, you might spot wallabies sipping from Beni Creek and soak in the serene atmosphere of this beautiful protected forest.
Starting from Beni Forest Road, the route takes you along Pimlico Fire Trail, Deep Creek Fire Trail, and Black Mans Fire Trail. Parking is conveniently located at the entrance to Pimlico Fire Trail.
Mugga Hill Reserve Explorer
Distance: 4.8 km
Difficulty: Moderate
This loop encompasses all the trails within Mugga Hill Reserve, conveniently located near Dubbo. It combines the popular mountain biking tracks into a single route.
Starting and ending just off Dunedoo Road, the loop begins a few kilometres before the 100km sign heading out of Dubbo, on the right-hand side.
The trail is a single track that runs in a clockwise direction and is one-way only to minimise the risk of accidents.
Mugga Hill West Side
Distance: 1.4 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Discover the west side of Mugga Hill, just a short drive from Dubbo, where you’ll find the area’s most popular mountain biking trail. This scenic looped route, starting and ending on Dunedoo Road a few kilometres before the 100km sign, offers an exhilarating ride through lush bushland.
The single track is designed to be ridden in a clockwise direction and operates one-way to enhance safety and minimise accidents. Enjoy the diverse landscape and picturesque views as you navigate this well-loved trail.
Bunglegumbie Reserve Walk
Distance: 3.5 km
Difficulty: Easy
Enjoy a delightful stroll through Bunglegumbie Reserve, situated just outside Dubbo along Narromine Road. This walk takes you through a charming tree-dotted meadow next to the Macquarie River.
Some tracks may be a bit overgrown and muddy after rain, but you’re likely to encounter local birdlife and the occasional kangaroo. Throughout your journey, you’ll also catch glimpses of the Macquarie River.
64.6 km 44 min
Discover the historic town of Gilgandra, nestled along the Castlereagh River in the stunning Great Western Plains of NSW. Uncover its significant role in Australian war history, stroll the Windmill Walk, and get up close with an emu.
• Coo-ee Heritage and Visitor Information Centre
• Gilgandra Museum
• Emu Logic
39.9 km 29 min
Explore the captivating aviation heritage of Narromine, a small town where flying legends have soared for over a century. Located by the Macquarie River in NSW’s Great Western Plains, Narromine boasts charming parklands, serene wetlands, and historic hotels.
• Narromine Aviation Museum
• Goobang National Park
• Waverleigh Cotton Farm
160.1 km 1 hr 44 min
Experience true country hospitality in Coonamble, home to Australia’s biggest rodeo and campdraft. Coonamble also serves as the gateway to three natural marvels: Warrumbungle National Park, the Macquarie Marshes, and Pilliga Forest.
• Museum Under the Bridge
• Coonamble Water Tower
• Nickname Hall of Fame
january
Australia Day Celebrations
Cricket NSW State Challenge
February
Geurie Picnic Races
Wellington Art Competition
March
Little Athletics NSW State Combined Championships
Black Dog Ride 1 Dayer
Beers to the Bush
Titan Macquarie Mud Run
Wellington Rotary Vintage Fair & Swap Meet
Lake Burrendong Fishing Classic
Stuart Town’s Man from Ironbark Festival
Toyota Nationals
Great Australian Stone Festival
Holi Milan Festival of Colours
April
Stock Route Country Music Festival
Wellington Boot Racing Carnival
Morris Register National Rally
Michael Egan Memorial Book Fair
Wellington Art Show
MAY
Dubbo Jazz Festival
Dubbo Show
Wellington Show
Geurie Golden Bit Campdraft
JUNE
Geurie Golden Bit Campdraft
Dubbo Eisteddfod
Lazy River Estate Winter Markets
Herefords Australia National Show and Sale
Shorthorn National Show and Sale
Dubbo Winter Whisky Festival
july
NAIDOC Celebrations
Wellington Eisteddfod
august
Variety B to B Bash
Dubbo Motorfest
Truck and Tractor Show
Ranch Sorting
Variety Bash Family Day
Dubbo Stampede
For the most up to date Calendar of Events and dates, go to www.dubbo.com.au
Wellington NAIDOC Cinema Under the Stars
Under Western Skies Festival
Gurramurra Festival
Under the Gums Gilgandra
Dubbo Air Fair
Crystals, Creatives & Mystic Fair
Veterans Week of Golf
Dubbo Gold Cup Race Day
Geurie Rodeo
Orana Caravan, Camping, 4WD, Fish & Boat Show
The Geurie Golden Collar
World’s Richest Bowls Tournament
Strokeplay Golf Tournament
Karting NSW State Sprint Titles
Fong Lees Lane
Music on The Macquarie Youth Music Festival
Dubbo
Music on The Macquarie Youth Music Festival
Wellington
Classic Cars & Coffee
Cross Cultural Carnival
Stuart Town Multicultural Festival
Dubbo Sixes Soccer Tournament
Derby Day
Melbourne Cup
Derby Day Racing Carnival
Global Fusion
Dubbo Classic Cars & Coffee
National Indigenous Touch Football
Championships
WomDomNom
Lazy River Estate Christmas Markets
Carols by Candlelight
Cricket NSW Youth Championships
Dubbo Kart Club Track Challenge
Stuart Town Christmas Tree
Dubbo Rotary Twilight Christmas Fair
Wellington Boxing Day Races
New Years’ Eve Fireworks
Regular Event
Dubbo Parkrun
Every Saturday morning from 8am to 9am
Dubbo Parkrun is a free, fun, weekly 5km
community event
Sandy Beach Park, Dubbo
Please register first
emergency services
Police / Ambulance / Fire
Dubbo Police
143 Brisbane Street, Dubbo
hospital
000
(02) 6883 1599
Dubbo Base Hospital (02) 6809 6809
Myall Street, Dubbo
Medical
Delroy Park Medical Centre (02) 6884 9385
2-4 Carnegie Avenue, West Dubbo
Dubbo Medical and Allied Health Group (02) 6815 9900
42 Bultje Street, Dubbo
Dental
National Dental Care
Riverdale Shopping Centre,
Shop 3-4, 49/65 Macquarie Street, Dubbo
pharmacies
(02) 6882 4108
Local
Orana Mall Pharmacy (02) 6882 7677
Shop 109-111 Orana Mall, Wheelers Lane, Dubbo
Blooms The Chemist Dubbo (02) 6882 4853
Shop 15-16a, Dubbo Square, 177 Macquarie Street, Dubbo
TRANSPORT
Taxi 131 008
Dubbo City Regional Airport (02) 6801 4560 www.dubboairport.com.au
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
Dubbo Visitor Information Centre (02) 6801 4450 Cnr Newell Highway & Macquarie Street
Wellington Visitor Information Centre 1800 621 614
Cnr Nanima Crescent & Warne Street, Wellington
Dubbo Farmers Market
First and third Saturday of every month, 8am to 12pm Cnr Newell Highway & Macquarie Street
Geurie Lions Market
Last Saturday of every 3rd month, 8am to 1pm
Wise Park, Mitchell Highway, Geurie
Dubbo Rotunda Market
Last Sunday of the month 8am to 1pm
Church Street Rotunda, Macquarie Street
Wellington Rotary Market
Fourth Saturday of every month (except Dec & Jan), 8am to 1pm
Cameron Park, Wellington