Regional Information
Central West
New South Wales
 New South Wales' Central West begins after having crossed the Blue Mountains and stretches inland for about another 400 km. The region's border towns include Bathurst, Cowra and West Wyalong in the south; Nyngan in the north-west; and Coonabarabran in the north-east. Many of the towns and villages throughout the region have carefully preserved and restored historic buildings. Bathurst was Australia's first major inland city, coming after the crossing of the Blue Mountains in 1813. Bathurst was the focus of the first Gold Rush in 1851 and home of infamous bushrangers including Ben Hall. The inland area was opened up, and another important event was the completion of the railway from Lithgow to Bathurst in 1876. Today Bathurst is best known for the Mt Panorama motor racing event held each year in October. The town of Mudgee is located around 125km north of Bathurst and is famous for its wineries and honey production. Mudgee is rapidly growing the reputation as a centre for gourmet food and wine. This area is also popular for its farmstay opportunities. The city of Dubbo is situated about 420km from Sydney, in the heart of the Central West region. Dubbo is a huge agricultural centre and is home to the Western Plains Zoo. This Zoo is the largest open plain Zoo in Australia and you can drive, walk or cycle around it. The exotic and native animals are free to roam in moated enclosures providing excellent habitats and viewing opportunities. Orange is a prosperous old city set in rich red volcanic soil, 264km from Sydney. Aet on the slopes of Mt Canobolas, the area is famous for its fruit, especially apples. Mt Canobolas has a 2400ha park and flora and fauna sanctuary. Parkes is a commercial and industrial centre of an important agricultural area. On the outskirts of town is Kelly Reserve, with a lovely bush setting for picnics. The Shrine of Rememberance offers vies of the country centre. |
Fact SummaryThe Newell Highway which runs through each centre in the Central West is the major inland road between the Australian States of Queensland, South Australia and Victoria. The city of Gilgandra is the halfway mark between Melbourne and Brisbane and is the gateway to the beautiful Warrumbungle National Park. The Central West's popularity is mainly due to its location. It is very popular with travellers travelling inland through the Eastern states of Australia and is a popular overnight accommodation stop for road travellers. |
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