Regional Information
The Hunter and Central Coast
New South Wales
 Beginning just 2 hours north of Sydney, the Hunter Region includes the valley's vineyards as well as the spectacular coastline to the east. From the blue water paradise of Port Stephens through Newcastle and south to Lake Macquarie; from the high country of Barrington Tops National Park in the north to the vineyards of the Hunter Valley, this region offers a variety of attractions and landscapes. The Hunter is a holiday destination that is very popular with tourists from all over Australia and the world. The Hunter Wine Country is Australia's oldest wine producing area, with some of Australia's most famous wineries. Cessnock is the gateway to the vineyards, and Pokolbin is the heart of the wine country. Lake Macquarie is Australia's largest coastal saltwater lake. The area is a natural paradise for sailing, canoeing, water skiing, fishing and bushwalking. Travelling further north along the coast we reach Newcastle, with it's beaches, harbour and historic sights. Newcastle is the state's second largest city. Continuing on the coastal route, one of the area's most spectacular and popular holiday resorts - Port Stephens - offers crystal clear water, beautiful beaches and natural bushland Moving inland we reach Maitland, with considerable historic significance and a huge range of art, antique and craft shops and galleries. To the north of Maitland is Dungog, the gateway to Barrington Tops National Park. Lush bushland provides the perfect formula for bushwalking, horseriding and outdoor picnics by the meandering streams and waterfalls. CENTRAL COAST The scenic Central Coast is a spectacular holiday destination just one hour north of Sydney. This region offers both spectacular coastline and lush rainforest. The beaches are the feature of this region, however there are countless waterways which also characterise the region - Brisbane Water, Tuggerah Lake, Lake Budgewoi and Lake Munmorah. The magic scenery, pounding surf beaches and tranquil lakes are enticing, and the region caters for all varieties of outdoor activities. Major centres include Broken Bay, Gosford, Terrigal, The Entrance and Swansea. Smaller beachside communities which make up the central coast include Avoca, Long Jetty, Budgewoi, Toukley, Woy Woy and Bateau Bay.
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Fact SummaryThe Hunter Valley's two primary industries are coal and wine. The Hunter Valley features over 40 wineries and some wineries were established as far back as1860. The town of Scone is famous for its regular horse races and there are over 40 horse studs in that area alone. The Hunter River is approximately 300 kilometres long. |
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