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The Australian Holidays Getaway Project :
A National Collaboration
[See
NSW place names A - F]
[See
NSW place names G - O]
Paddington
Palm Beach
Parkes
From a gold rush town of the last century, Parkes has progressed to become a
thriving commercial centre servicing a rich agricultural district. Apart from
transport; tourism, mining, agriculture and Government services are critical to
the district economy. The world famous Radio Telescope, and the continued
conduct of major events, continue to provide a national and international focus
for Parkes. So too does the town's Sister City links with Coventry UK, the
birthplace of Sir Henry Parkes in 1815. Parkes will be integrally involved in
Centenary of Federation celebrations in 2001.
Parramatta
Parramatta is located in southern eastern New South Wales. It's about 45 minutes
from the city by car and 30 minutes by train. Located on the Parramatta river,
it has many historical sights such as St Johns church and the first government
house. Parramatta has a huge park which includes Observatory and King school
which has been located there since 1832. Nearby is the popular Rose Hill race
course. It has heaps of shopping complexes and a huge train station which makes
it easy to get to Parramatta. Hawker College
Penrith
Perisher
Perisher Valley is a leading ski resort, and at 1735 metres is also one of the
highest. There is a accommodation for more than 2500 people and at the height of
the season the slopes are crowded with skiers. They reach the top of the ski
runs by using various lifts including a chair lift which rises to 2054 metres
and is the highest on any Australian snow fields. Not only is the valley popular
in winter but also in summer as walkers come to see and trek the beautiful
mountain.
There are also those who come
to see the Alpine wild flowers. There are two churches which are also situated
at the top of the mountain which makes them the highest churches in Australia.
The neighbouring resort is Smiggin Holes which has became part of the Perisher
complex. It has the best beginner slopes in the NSW's snow fields.
Hawker College
Picton
Picton lies an hours drive south west from Sydney CBD. It was settled in 1822
and contains many historic sites worth viewing. It is an ideal spot for a day
trip or a weekend break. There is a good choice of accommodation in an historic
old pub, a modern motel or the many bed and breakfast establishments. Some of
the organised tours available here include historical day tours, and even Ghost
Tours (weekends). Liz Vincent
Pokolbin
Port Macquarie
Port Stephens
Port Stephens is situated two and a half hours drive North from Sydney. The
white volcanic sand and aqua marine waters of the beaches of Port Stephens have
a distinctly tropical look, and the annual temperature is within four degrees of
that of the Gold Coast. This large deep water port, less than an hours drive of
Newcastle, is one of the most unspoilt and attractive seaside holiday areas on
the New South Wales coast. Two
and a half times the size of Sydney Harbour and almost enclosed by two volcanic
headlands, the circular harbour is fringed by sheltered white sandy beaches
backed by stretches of natural bushland. In Spring, the wild flowers grow in
profusion. The deep calm waters of the harbour are ideal for boating and
offer excellent fishing. Port Stephens is jammed with holiday makers during the
summer who come to enjoy the swimming, surfing, sailing, water-skiing and many
more outdoor activities.
Despite the development there
are still long stretches of natural shore. Port Stephens offers excellent
fishing which includes flathead, whiting, tailor, bream, drummer, as well as
marlin, tuna and kingfish. A variety of boats can be hired from resorts or you
can spoil yourself with a relaxed cruise on wonderful waterways. For those who
enjoy sailing a Sydney to Port Stephens yacht race starts on Australia Day each
year, and Port Stephens also hosts an Easter Festival. Attractions: Shell
Museum, Gemstone House, Aqaurium, Art Gallery. Lucille
Roberts, Hawker College
Queenbeyan
Quirindi
Raymond Terrace
Richmond
Riverstone
Riverstone is an historic township in the north-west sector of Sydney,
Australia. Its original inhabitants were aboriginal people of the Darug tribe.
The site of the town is part of a land grant given to Lieutenant-Colonel Maurice
O'Connell in 1810 by Governor Macquarie, as a wedding present. O'Connell named
it Riverston, after his birthplace in Ireland.
Robertson
Rockdale
Rothbury
Sans Souci
The Sydney suburb of Sans Souci occupies a peninsula that's pierced by Rocky
Point Road as it heads south to the Captain Cook bridge. This is not really a
major tourist attraction, although Rocky Point Road plays host to a wide variety
of restaurants that seem to change hands fairly regularly.
Kogarah Bay is on the western side of the peninsula, while there are some nice
beaches to the east of the suburb. The suburb of Brighton, with the Novotel
hotel on the beach, lies to the north. Morris Jones
Scone
Singleton
Springwood
St Albans
St Albans is an historic first settlers' village located approximately 100kms
from Sydney CBD in the MacDonald River Valley. With numerous sites of interest,
including Australia's oldest Georgian pub built in convict cut stone in 1836, St
Albans is a delight to visit. It's a good place to soak up the fresh air and
history, and see Kangaroos in their natural surroundings before driving on to
the more hectic Hunter Valley. Kerrie Mitchell
St Leonards
Strathfield
Sutherland
Sutton Forest
Swansea
Sydney
The capital city of New South Wales, Sydney is the point of entry for most
travellers starting their Australian holiday. This sprawling giant of a
city has a population nearing 4 million, and stretches about 70 kilometres north
south and 55 kilometres east west.
Noted for its breathtaking surroundings, Sydney features early Australian
historical sites, numerous beaches, an excellent climate... and that distinctive
bridge! Visitors will find an exceptional range of
Sydney hotels as
well as
Sydney apartments throughout the central city and surrounding areas, suited
for both business and leisure visitors.
No visit to Sydney is complete
without the obligatory Sydney harbour cruise. Take a tour of the world famous
Sydney Opera House and nearby Sydney Harbour Bridge. Sydney is renowned for its
beaches, water sports, boating, fabulous scenery, gourmet food and shop till you
drop. That still leaves all the historic sites, colonial buildings and cobbled
streets, tourist precincts, the 2000 Olympics site, cosmopolitan nightlife,
harbour and river cruises, inner city monorail, world class aquarium, museums
and art galleries... and that's just for startrers!
Extracted from Australian Travel Emporium
Sylvania
Tamworth
Tamworth is the Country Music capital of Australia, hosting the Australasian
Country Music Awards and Festival every January. Tamworth is a thriving city,
and is the chosen location for many conferences and cultural and sporting
events. Tamworth, named after the city of Tamworth in England, is also known as
the "City of Light", having been the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to
use electric street lighting.
You will learn this and much
more from the Electricity museum and Calala Cottage museum. Tamworth is located
on the New England Highway, half-way between Sydney and Brisbane, and is also
serviced by rail and air. Jane Lally
Taree
Taree, situated on the beautiful Manning River, is about 320kms (4.5 hours
drive) north of Sydney. Named after the local Aboriginal word "Tareebit" meaning
"fruit of the sandpaper fig", these majestic trees can still be seen in the
remnants of rainforest on Coocumbac island as you cross the Martin Bridge into
the town. The town of Taree has a population of about 20,000 with another 20,000
people throughout the many smaller historic towns and villages in the Manning
Valley.
Taree boasts a beautiful
riverbank with picnic facilities, several historic buildings and is close to the
pristine surf beaches of Old Bar, Saltwater, Manning Point and Harrington.
Accommodation ranges from budget motels, backpackers accommodation at local
pubs, beachside and/or riverside caravan parks, B&B's and resorts. There are
many tourist drives through rainforests, valleys and picturesque farmland, with
natural attractions such as Ellenborough Falls and Wingham Brush.
There are many antique shops,
handcrafts and nurseries for the traveller to stop and browse through. The
Pacific Highway, which once ran through the main street of Taree (Victoria
Street) now bypasses the town, with exits located both North and South of the
town. Taree is well worth the visit, and is an excellent place to stop over if
you are driving from Sydney to Brisbane. Lauren Booth
Tathra
Tathra is situated on the Sapphire Coast, north of Merimbula and 18 km east of
Bega. What you will find: Tathra is surrounded by the natural beauty of Mimosa
and Bournda National Parks, which are the homes to the little seabird 'Tern',
and other wildlife. Tathra is rich in history and has the only remaining sea
wharf on the east coast, with a museum in the old cargo shed. Tathra attracts
many fisherman, history lovers and photographers.
The beautiful Tathra beach
winds for 3kms and is protected from southerly winds. It is ideal for the lovers
of surfing of sailboarding. Whilst beach fishing rewards with salmon and tailor.
At the north end of the beach is Mogareeka Inlet, the mouth of the Bega river,
popular for boating and bird life. The Tathra waters also offer a spectacular
underwater world, great for snorkellers and scuba divers. You can also come
across beautiful coral, underwater caves and shipwrecks.
Lucille Roberts, Hawker College Kianniny
Bay at Tathra nestles between rising cliffs providing sheltered launching
facilities for the keen fishermen with his boat. A multi lane boat ramp,
fishcleaning facilities and ample trailer parking make this a great spot. A
visit to Yellow Pinch Wildlife Park is a great adventure for both young and old.
Lesley McArthur
Tenterfield
Northern gateway to the glorious New England region. Situated on New England
Highway, Junction of Bruxner Highway, 770 km north of Sydney and 270 km south of
Brisbane. Population 3500, altitude 882 metres, average temperature summer 26
degrees, winter 12 degrees. Annual Events: New England Sheep Dog Trials
-late January, Agricultural Show - late January, Yulefest - late July, Rodeo &
Campdraft - October, Spring Wine Festival - early October, Federation Festival -
late October, Gem Festival - late November.
Special Interest Sites :The
Saddler's shop. (Tenterfield Saddler fame), Centenary cottage complex,
Mt.Mackenzie Lookout approx 6K west of town, Tenterfield Railway Station opened
in 1886 by Lord Carrington, Bluff Rock - Australia's Largest exposed granite
rock, Thunderbolt's Hideout & world war II tank traps 11km from town, Bald Rock
National Park with Australia's largest exposed granite rock (and 2nd largest
rock in Australia), Boonoo Falls which plunges down a 210 metres shear drop,
Boonoo Boonoo National Park and lots more. Take the time to enquire about the
history of the "Birth Place of the Nation" at the School of Arts library and it
was here that Henry Parks (later Sir Henry) made his historic speech that set in
motion the movement resulting in Australian Federation on January 1, 1901,
Presbyterian Church in Logan Street (Banjo Paterson was married here).
Accommodation may be selected from Hotels/Motels. Caravan parks For the
fisherpersons try the Glenlyon Dam approx 66km. west (catch Golden Perch, Murray
cod, Catfish). Neville Hall
Terrey Hills
Terrigal
Located 60 minutes drive north of Sydney or 45 minutes by train, and 5 minutes
from Gosford. It's population is approximately 8000. It offers great trip along
the Hunter River area, good clean beaches, great drives to surrounding towns
including Avoca Beach and Batau Bay, horse riding and paragliding. There's cheap
accommodation in Terrigal or Gosford and luxury accommodation in Terrigal at the
Holiday Inn, Crown Plaza, which looks out onto the ocean.
Hawker College
The Entrance
The aboriginal name for the entrance is 'karagai' and it means "the entrance".
Located 80 km south of Newcastle and 100 km north of Sydney, The Entrance is on
a narrow peninsula where the coastal Tuggerah Lakes meets the Pacific Ocean. It
has a permanent population of about 5200, tripling over summer. Originally a
fishing village, it developed into a holiday destination in the 1930s.
A unique feature at the time
was that every house in the town had a name so it was easier for visitors to
locate their holiday residence. There is an abundance of things to do including
fishing, swimming, boating (ocean and lake), snorkelling, picnicking and
cycling. In fact The Entrance is completly surounded by a walking and cycle
path. The feeding of the pelicans at 3.30pm each day on the piazza should not be
missed. To the north is the Warabalong National Park that has a number of
isolated beaches and walking trails. The town has a full range of services
including supermarkets, banks and a range of accommodation.
Getting to The Entrance is easy. By public transport catch an electric train
from the country platforms at Sydney Central going north to Gosford. Alight at
Gosford and board a "Red Bus", most trains are met with little delay (total
travel time 2.5 hours). From Newcastle catch the train, alighting at Wyong, and
again catch a "Red Bus" - although there may be up to a 50 minute wait for the
bus (time 2.5 hours). By car take the Pacific Highway/ F3 Freeway leaving it at
"The Entrance exit"(1.25 hours from Newcastle, 1.5 hours from Sydney). Sydney
Harbour Seaplanes also operate flights directly to the town from both Queens'
Wharf, Newcastle and Rose Bay, Sydney - booking required.
R J Bradford
 Thredbo
Thredbo is a resort for all seasons. As the winter snowfalls melt under the
sunshine, the spring thaw reveals a myriad of activities in and around the
beautiful Kosciuszko National Park. Experience guided walks to the summit of Mt
Kosciuszko or a leisurely self-guided walk along one of the many trails on
offer. There are 4 floodlit tennis courts which enjoy leafy surroundings and a
PGA rated golf course which is the highest in Australia.
Take in a gentle swim or
workout at the AIS THREDBO Alpine Training Centre. For the more adventurous why
not tackle the mighty Murray on a raft, climb the granite tors high above
THREDBO, ride a horse through the legendary Man from Snowy River country, speed
down the 700 metre luge track in a bobsled, pedal about the mountain on a bike
or try your hand at fly-fishing. Emily Wilkinson
Tibooburra
Toronto
Toronto is located around 2 hours drive from Sydney and 40 minutes from
Newcastle. The suburbs surrounding Toronto vary from beautiful views of the Lake
to views of Mount Sugarloaf. Many of the suburbs surrounding Toronto are old
coal mining areas; because of this you will find a variety of mining cottages in
the area. Toronto is located right on the edge of Lake Macquarie where there is
an abundance of water sports in particular Yacht racing. It is only a short 40
minute drive to a number of beaches in the area. There are a variety of
recreation parks including bike tracks, walking tracks, and playgrounds; The
Hunter Valley wine country is located only 40 minutes drive from Toronto.
Angela Connell-Holden
Tumbarumba
Located halfway between Sydney and Melbourne this region offers magnificent and
beautiful mountain scenery. Sights: The Snowy Mountains, Mt Kosciusko, Paddy's
River Falls, Tooma and Maragle valleys, the Hume and Hovell walking track and
the mighty Murray River. Activies: Snow skiing, water skiing, camping,
bushwalking, fishing, boating, caravanning, white water rafting, trail riding.
Other attractions: Pioneer Women's Hut, craft shops, museums, galleries,
orchards and blueberry farm.
Tumut
Tumut is the resting final place of 'Thomas BOYD', an Explorer with the Hume &
Hovell Expedition which crossed the Murray River for the first time and reached
Port Philip opening the area, later to become Melbourne, for settlement. In fact
Thomas BOYD was said to be the second most important member of the party.
Although he was a convict, on several occasions he managed to save the party and
was instrumental in assisting the party, with his renowned skills as a bushman
and swimmer, to achieve its goals and return safely.
Thomas BOYD' was the last
surviving member of the expedition and his tombstone in the Tumut Pioneer
Cemetery is a monument to his achievement. He was the first white man to swim
across the Murray River as he was holding a rope between his teeth to help the
party cross the river. Neil GILL
In autumn Tumut celebrates the
change in season with the festival of the falling leaf. during this festival
activities include a golf tournament the annual rodeo a street parade, fire
works and much more. The biggest day of the year in Tumut would have to be
Boxing Day races. Tumut comes from an aboriginal word doomut which is said to
mean either camping place by the river or quiet resting place by the river.
Emma Pearce
The picturesque Tumut Valley
region is situated at the northern entrance to the Snowy Mountains and Kosiusko
National Park. In summer it's an aquatic playground, in winter a skiiers
delight, and in autumn the area is spectacular with the changing colours of the
many trees. Enjoy the thermal pool at Yarrangobilly Caves, bushwalking along the
Hume and Hovell track, water-skiing, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hang-gliding
and horse-riding. Visit the broom or marble factories, or the craft centre.
Tweed Heads
Ulong/Lowanna
Ulong/Lowanna on the Eastern Dorrigo Plateau is a must see. 35km west of Coffs
Harbour up a scenic mountain drive dotted with Bangalow palms and glimpses of
the ocean on fine days and driving thru the mist on drizzly days. Waterfalls and
creeks that are very reclusive, small town hospitality, lovely BBQ area,
friendly RSL club and the best bit....The Glenreagh/Ulong Mountain Railway.
Brett, Annie, Jas and Roxie
Ulladulla
Wagga Wagga
Nestled on the banks of the magnificent Murrumbidgee River, Wagga Wagga is the
largest inland city in NSW and describes itself as the 'cultural oasis' of
inland Australia. The region changes from the spectacular ski slopes of the
Snowy Mountains to the East to the rich undulating farmland in the West.
Sights: Botanic gardens, Murray
Cod Hatchery and Fauna Park, Wagga Wagga winery, Wagga Wagga City Art Gallery,
Riverina Galleries, Historical Museum, Aurora Clydesdale Stud and Pioneer Farm.
Walcha
Walcha is situated on the picturesque New England Tablelands 563km from Sydney
on the Oxley Highway and is known as the "Pasture Wonderland of Australia".
Walcha is where Australia's oldest woman lived until her 110th year, and where
Mr and Mrs John Hogan became the second longest married couple in Australia
(76.5 years) he being 101 and his wife 96 before they died...Then there was
George Golledge, who took up lawn bowls at 90 and became club champion at 92.
Wallendbeen
Wallendbeen was once part of the largest Municipality in NSW. Gazetted in 1853
and proclaimed in 1894, it has a colourful history of landholders much industry
and bushrangers. It has been a tidy town winner and has possibly the most
beautiful small town cricket oval in Australia. It also has the unique Yandilla
Mustard Seed Oil Enterprise and Antique and Old Wares shop.
Colleen Hines
Watsons Bay
Wentworth
Wentworth is of historic importance and it is situated on the juction of the
Darling & the Murray. The gaol there is a very interesting attraction. The town
would be a good place to stop for anyone heading west to Broken Hill, and would
not be a great detour for others on their way to South Australia.
Graeme Wright
Wentworth Falls
One of the older town in the mountains it has many gardens that areoften open to
the public, mainly in Spring and Autumn. Originally called Weatherboard the town
was renamed after the spectacular waterfall to the south of the village. It is
well signposted and worth a detour to spend time there. For energetic folk there
is a spectacular walk called The Valley of The Waters that will take a couple
hours but is the best in the Blue Mountains. In the Village, the cafes offer
good food seven days a week. Sue Hardy
West Wyalong
Wilcannia
Windsor
Windsor is a quaint relic from the convict days, barely 1 hour's drive from
Sydney via the M2 or 70 minutes by train on the Richmond Line. One of the five
Macquarie Towns, named by Governor Macquarie, the area around Windsor was first
settled as early as 1791, when the fertile river flats grew enough produce to
save Sydney from starvation. These days visitors flock to Thompson Square on
Sundays to enjoy the atmosphere of a street market, music in the park and many
cafes, restaurants & pubs.
The Macquarie Arms & historic
St Matthews Church both date from around 1811. Water skiing and river cruises
can be enjoyed on the wide Hawkesbury River. Ghost Tours operate Thursday -
Saturday nights. The Clydesdale horse-drawn restaurant is a splendid sight and a
unique dining experience. There are motels and bed & breakfast in the town, with
farmstays available near-by. Vicki Steven
Wisemans Ferry
Only an hour from Sydney by the old Northern Rd, through Castle Hill & Dural
lies this pretty little village. A great picnic destination in its own right,
Wiseman's is also the starting point for the Convict Trail - across the
Hawkesbury River to St Albans. 500 metres from the northern off-ramp is the
original convict-built road - an engineering feat well worth visiting, now
protected in Dharug National Park.
The village takes its name from
the vehicular punt which crosses the Hawkesbury constantly, 24 hours a day - and
it is free! There are actually two "ferries" - the other is called Webbs Creek
Ferry and is slightly further west. There are motels, camping grounds, a pub & a
coffee shop in, or near the Village. Vicki Steven
Wollombi
Wollongong
Woodford
Woy Woy
Wyong
Yarramalong
Yass
Young
Young is a beautiful town with a vast variety of industries: Cherries, wines,
stone fruits, eggs, prunes, food & wine festivals, the National cherry festival
and "Iandra" castle. Colleen Hines
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