Old Dubbo Gaol

Dubbo Gaol operated as a correctional facility in rural New South Wales from 1847 to 1966. The prison was constructed to address overcrowding in regional lockups and initially consisted of wooden structures before being rebuilt with sandstone in the 1870s.

The facility housed both male and female prisoners serving sentences for various offenses. Its design reflected the penal philosophy of the Victorian era, featuring cell blocks arranged around a central yard, guard towers, and high perimeter walls. The gaol saw 1,073 prisoners experience its harsh conditions.

Today, Historic Dubbo Gaol functions as a museum and heritage site. Visitors can view restored buildings including cell blocks, the chapel, yards, and gallows. The site provides insight into Australian colonial justice and the social history of the region.

Several preservation efforts since the 1970s have maintained the gaol's structural integrity while establishing it as a significant heritage destination within the Dubbo tourism landscape.Read more