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Western NSW
  • R and R Travels

Western NSW

Gulgong, Dubbo, Cobar, Broken Hill, Menindee Lakes, Mildura, Darlington Point, Forbes and Parkes Read more
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  • Trip start
    May 13, 2025
  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Working Linotype machines. Replaced by computers in the mid 1980's.Cobb & Co coachThe Old Pub bar in the Gulgong Pioneers MuseumSchool HouseAn Australian classic, the Victa lawnmowerThe oldest still operating Opera House in the Southern hemisphere since 1871.

    Historic Gulgong

    May 14 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    On Wiradjuri country, Gulgong, located in Central West New South Wales, is a historic gold rush town that played a significant role in the development of the state during the 19th century. Gulgong means "deep waterhole" in local language. Founded in the early 1870s after the discovery of gold, Gulgong quickly grew into a bustling settlement, attracting thousands of prospectors and fortune seekers.

    At its peak, Gulgong was one of the richest goldfields in NSW, and remnants of that era are still visible in its well-preserved 19th-century streetscapes and heritage buildings. The town is famously featured on the original Australian $10 note, showcasing its cultural significance.

    Today, Gulgong offers visitors a step back in time, with attractions like the Gulgong Pioneers Museum and the Henry Lawson Centre celebrating both its gold rush heritage and its connection to one of Australia’s most iconic poets. Gulgong remains a proud symbol of NSW’s pioneering past.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Men's wing.
    Mobile gallowsOutdoor exercise yard. Females on the left, males on the right.Inside the exercise yard. Clearly the females did the laundry. Note the "copper" and washboards.Juvenile's exercise area. Scant privacy.In the Gaol hospital. Castor Oil and Bland Oil (with arsenic and strychnine)The Gaol Hospital kitchenHospital

    Old Dubbo Gaol

    May 16 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C

    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

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Original facades of Dubbo Base Hospital. Robin was born here in 1960.
    We were surprised by the lack of a plaque commemorating Robin's birthplace.The new entrance to the Hospital.Dubbo railway station.Station Master's residence.War Memorial in Charles Park.Charles ParkRailway bridge over the Macquarie River.Open till 4am but a lockout from 12:30am 😂😂Level crossings abound in DubboLevel crossings abound in Dubbo

    Dubbo wanderings

    May 16 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

    Stopped in Dubbo, a regional centre in western New South Wales with a long history tied to the expansion of the state. Originally founded in the 1840s as a stock route crossing, Dubbo grew steadily as agriculture and transport pushed westward.

    The railway's arrival in the 1880s helped establish Dubbo as a key link between rural areas and the coast, a role it still plays today. The station is quiet now but carries a sense of that history. The modern base hospital underscores Dubbo’s ongoing role as a service hub for much of inland NSW. The original hospital was Robin's birthplace.

    It’s a town that balances past and present, without too much fuss.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    The iconic Big Bogan in Nyngan.
    Nyngan HotelTypical of the infrastructure required in a country town. Foxtel, Starling and terrestrial TV.Testament to Cobar's mining pastA long wide loadHeading towards sundown. Good to be off the road before madness hour.Local Red-rumped parrot

    Dubbo to Cobar via Nyngan

    May 17 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Left Dubbo in the morning and followed the Mitchell Highway west. Drove straight through Narromine and Trangie without stopping. Not much traffic, and the road was in good condition.

    Stopped for lunch in Nyngan. Had a quick look around—saw the Big Bogan and the old railway station, which has been turned into a small museum. Had lunch at the recently refurbished Nyngan Hotel. Quiet town but a decent rest stop .

    Arrived in Cobar mid-afternoon. Typical outback town with a mining history.

    A straightforward drive through flat country. Not much variety, but an easy run with a few small towns to break it up.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Green along the roadside here.
    Red along the roadsideBridge at Wilcannia over the Darling River.WilcanniaLocal flooding, Up a few meters from normal.Wilcannia Post Office.Boarded entry to a derelict shop using local street signs.Former Petrol StationMain street of WilcanniaLeaving WilcanniaSunset in Broken Hill

    Cobar to Broken Hill via Wilcannia

    May 18 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 15 °C

    The road from Cobar to Broken Hill is long (~460km) and mostly straight and punctuated by a few small towns like Wilcannia and Noona. It felt like they threw in a curve every 50 to 80km just to see if you are paying attention.

    Cobar to Wilcannia is a 250km section that showcases the red earth of these parts. We saw thousands of goats (perhaps feral), 100 kangaroos (all dead), 50 sheep, a dozen Emu and a dead cow, all along the "long paddock".

    The Darling flows through Wilcannia and is currently at 9.4m with some localised flooding. You can see this in the photos.

    In 250km we overtook 2 vehicles and were overtaken by the same car twice and that's all the traffic in our direction. Was busier from Wilcannia.

    We had a provision shop at Woolworths in Broken Hill before heading to the BH Tourist Park. A very modern shop and well stocked.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Homage to Priscilla Queen of the DesertThe dress that Guy Pearce wore in Priscilla queen of the DesertThe Palace HotelBroken Hill Town HallBroken Hill Post OfficeThe streets have mining related or scientific namesThe Broken Hill Pub (BHP)Formerly the Silver King Hotel, now a helth services building for the indigenous communityClever use of the UHF antennaThe Astra HotelThe former Duke of Cornwall Hotel (1888)

    Broken Hill wanderings along Argent St.

    May 19 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 13 °C

    Argent Street showcases Broken Hill's rich mining history through its well-preserved buildings. The street features impressive structures from the late 1800s and early 1900s when silver mining brought wealth to this outback town.

    The Palace Hotel stands out with its decorative iron balconies and famous interior murals. It gained wide recognition after appearing in the film "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert."

    Other notable buildings include the sandstone Technical College, the post office with its prominent clock tower, and the grand Town Hall with classical design elements.

    What makes Argent Street special is that these buildings remain largely original rather than heavily restored. The street also features smaller commercial buildings with original shopfronts and decorative metal ceilings.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Air CompressorUnderground loaderElectric mine trainPart of an ore trainOre loaderUnderground train carsCafe at the Line of Lode Miners MemorialLine of Lode Miners MemorialLine of Lode Miners MemorialLine of Lode Miners MemorialFrom the Line of Lode memorialIndian Pacific and a freight train in at Broken Hill StationUnderground mine headerKintore Headframe

    Broken Hill - Mining Town

    May 20 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    The Line of Lode Memorial stands prominently on a mullock heap overlooking Broken Hill. This rust-colored steel structure serves as both a lookout and a tribute to the more than 800 miners who lost their lives in the local mines since the 1880s.

    Inside, visitors find a wall inscribed with the names of these miners, providing a somber reminder of mining's dangers. The memorial offers panoramic views of Broken Hill and the surrounding outback landscape.

    The "Line of Lode" refers to the massive mineral deposit that runs through Broken Hill - one of the world's richest concentrations of silver, lead, and zinc. This geological feature transformed a remote outback location into a thriving mining center.

    Broken Hill's story began in 1883 when boundary rider Charles Rasp discovered what would become one of Australia's most significant mineral deposits. The town quickly developed into a major industrial center, producing over 10% of the world's lead by the early 1900s.

    The wealth generated by mining allowed Broken Hill to establish impressive civic buildings, theaters, and Australia's first public art gallery despite its remote location.

    Broken Hill also played a crucial role in Australia's labor movement. The Barrier Industrial Council formed here, and workers organized for better conditions in the dangerous mining industry. The town gave birth to BHP (Broken Hill Proprietary), now one of the world's largest mining companies.

    In 2015, Broken Hill became Australia's first nationally heritage-listed city. While mining continues on a smaller scale today, tourism has become increasingly important to the local economy.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Broken Hill Railway Station
    The Indian Pacific waiting to leave Broken HillThe 25 car train from the Line of Lode memorialPowered by two 3000kW General Electric locomotives

    Indian Pacific

    May 20 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C

    The Indian Pacific makes a scheduled stop in Broken Hill, creating an ideal opportunity for passengers to explore this unique outback city. The iconic train pauses here during its transcontinental journey between Sydney and Perth, giving travelers approximately four hours to experience local attractions.

    Upon arrival at Broken Hill's heritage railway station, passengers can join organized tours or explore independently. The station itself serves as a convenient starting point, with its 1919 architecture providing a fitting introduction to the city's historic charm.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Miles and miles of bugger all... overlooking the Mundi Mundi festival site.Silverton Methodist ChurchMasons Umberumberka LodgeRestoration underwayMad Max 2 MuseumMad Max 2 MuseumSilverton Hotel

    Silverton

    May 21 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    Twenty-five kilometers northwest of Broken Hill sits Silverton, a tiny town with a remarkable dual identity. Once a thriving silver mining center, it's now better known as one of Australia's most filmed locations.

    Silverton's mining story began in the 1880s when rich silver deposits were discovered in the surrounding hills. The town quickly grew to house over 3,000 residents, complete with multiple hotels, shops, and even its own newspaper. For a brief period, it looked like Silverton might outshine its neighbor Broken Hill.

    However, the silver ran out faster than expected. By the early 1900s, most residents had packed up and moved to Broken Hill where mining opportunities remained strong. Silverton became what locals call a "semi-ghost town" - not completely abandoned, but with only a handful of permanent residents remaining.

    This decline, while devastating for the original community, created something unexpected: a perfectly preserved outback town that caught the attention of filmmakers. Silverton's authentic buildings, dramatic desert backdrop, and empty streets made it an ideal filming location.

    The town's movie career took off in earnest with "Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior" in 1981. The post-apocalyptic landscape around Silverton provided the perfect setting for the film's wasteland scenes. Since then, over 140 films and television productions have used Silverton as a location.

    Major productions filmed here include "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert," "Razorback," and "A Town Like Alice." More recently, international productions have discovered Silverton, with scenes for "Mad Max: Fury Road" shot in the surrounding area.

    Today, visitors can explore the Silverton Hotel, which serves as both a pub and an informal museum displaying movie memorabilia and photographs from various film shoots. The hotel's walls are covered with signed photos from actors and crew members who've worked in town.

    The old jail, school, and church remain standing, offering glimpses into Silverton's mining-era past. Meanwhile, the surrounding landscape continues to attract location scouts seeking authentic outback scenery.

    For travelers, Silverton offers a unique combination of Australian history and film heritage. It's a place where you can stand in locations seen by millions of moviegoers worldwide while learning about the boom-and-bust cycles that shaped so many Australian towns.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Menindee Lakes Caravan Park, right on the eastern shore of Menindee Lake
    The sun appears to touch down on Lake MenindeeThe weir between Tandure Lake and Lake PamamarooLake PamamarooLake PamamarooWeir on the Darling River, holding back about 4m of water.Waiting for the water to come down in the Darling River from QLDEmuFishing dog

    Menindee Lakes

    May 21 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

    The Menindee Lakes, located 100 kilometers southeast of Broken Hill, create a surprising oasis in the NSW outback. This chain of interconnected lakes along the Darling River forms one of the state's largest inland water systems.

    When full, the lakes hold up to 1.7 million megalitres and attract thousands of waterbirds including pelicans, cormorants, and various duck species. This makes the area popular with birdwatchers and nature photographers seeking wildlife in an unexpected setting.

    The historic town of Menindee sits on the main lake's shores. Its 1854 hotel once served paddle steamer passengers and remains a local landmark. The area also holds historical significance as a stopping point for explorer Charles Sturt and later cattle drovers heading to South Australia.

    Fishing draws many visitors, with Murray cod, golden perch, and silver perch found throughout the system. When water levels permit, the lakes also offer camping, boating, and swimming opportunities.

    However, the lakes face ongoing challenges from drought and water management issues. Water levels can vary dramatically, affecting both wildlife and recreational activities. Recent environmental stress has highlighted broader concerns about river system health.

    Despite these challenges, the Menindee Lakes remain an important recreational destination. The contrast between the extensive wetlands and surrounding semi-arid landscape creates a unique outback experience.

    The drive from Broken Hill takes about an hour across scenic western plains. Visitors should check current water levels before planning activities, as conditions vary significantly depending on seasonal rainfall and water management requirements.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Rio Vista, the home of the first Mayor of Mildura
    This one has aspirationThe boiler room on the MS Melbourne paddlesteamerThe boiler room on the MS Melbourne paddlesteamerPaddlewheel on the MS Melbourne paddlesteamerHouseboats on the Murray RiverHouseboat on the Murray RiverOne of the early paddlesteamers converted into an events boatThese trees are called "dead dogs", because they have no bark.What's left of the original bridge over the Murray River.The original lifting bridge has been moved and re-installed but no longer lifts.A heritage paddle boat, now converted to diesel power.The lock on weir 11. Allows vessels to navigate the 3.5m drop in level.The lock on weir 11. Allows vessels to navigate the 3.5m drop in level.The lock on weir 11. Allows vessels to navigate the 3.5m drop in level.The lock on weir 11. Allows vessels to navigate the 3.5m drop in level.Weir 11. 8,000 Mega Litres per day flowing over the weir.Back into the lock

    Mildura

    May 23 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 14 °C

    Today, we soaked up the charm of Mildura from the deck of the PS Melbourne, a steam-driven paddle steamer that’s been navigating the Murray River for decades. The Murray, stretching 2,520 km as Australia’s longest river, hummed with history as we set off from Mildura Wharf. The PS Melbourne, with its paddle wheels, felt like a time machine, chugging along at a leisurely 10 km/h through the sunlit waters.

    We passed through Lock 11 that traverses a 3.5m drop in river level as you can see in the photos. There are 15 locks in total currently operating along the Murray River.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Murrumbidgee River, Darlington Point
    Murrumbidgee River, Darlington PointMurrumbidgee River, Darlington Point

    Darlington Point

    May 24 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    We've turned the corner towards home and are trying to split the days into manageable chunks of driving. Ideally under 5 hours.

    Darlington Point is about half way between Mildura and Forbes and seemed like a good spot for a night's rest. Located on the Murrumbidgee River its development dates back to the mid 19th century as a river crossing on the road from Wagga Wagga to Hay.Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    The Lachlan River, Forbes
    Yvonne Goolagong sculpture in BarellanCommercial Hotel, BarellanKelpie statue in Stewart Park, ArdlethanThe Lachlan River, ForbesOnce the site of swimming races in 1930'sHorses along the Lachlan River, ForbesInteresting geology in Forbes

    Forbes

    May 25 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    Driving from Darlington Point to Forbes you pass through the town of Barellan, birthplace of Yvonne Goolagong where a sculpture has been erected.

    Next is the town of Ardlethan, claiming to be the home of the Australian Kelpie with another sculpture in Stewart Park.

    We stayed in the Apex Riverside Caravan Park, a lovely spot on the Lachlan River.

    The Wiradjuri people called this area home long before European settlement, and explorer John Oxley passed through in 1817. Oxley initially just called it "Camp Hill" but later renamed it Forbes after Sir Francis Forbes, who became NSW's first Chief Justice.

    The real action started when gold was discovered in 1861, bringing around 30,000 people rushing in and creating a massive tent city. That gold rush boom transformed a simple camp into the thriving town we see today.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels
    Parkes Radio Telescope
    The Dish. Parkes Radio Telescope

    Parkes

    May 26 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 15 °C

    Also Wiradjuri country.

    The town of Parkes was part of the colonial expansion of the early 19th century, originally founded in 1853 as the settlement Currajong, named for the abundance of kurrajong trees in the local area by the settlers, but was then known as Bushman's (from the local mine named Bushman's Lead). In August 1873, Henry Parkes (later Sir Henry) visited the area and in December 1873 the town was officially renamed Parkes in his honour.

    In 2000 the Parkes Radio Telescope became an Australian movie icon when it played a central role in the gentle comedy, The Dish. Located 20 km north of Parkes it was built by the CSIRO between 1959-1961 and was the first big-dish antenna radio telescope in the Southern Hemisphere. It is a massive 64 metres in diameter. The CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope, nicknamed 'The Dish', helped broadcast the 1969 Apollo 11 Moon landing to the world and is a must-see.

    Also popular is the annual Elvis Festival, founded in 1993. It now attracts over 25,000 people to the 5 day event.

    Parks is the crossroads of Australian logistics.ocated on the transcontinental rail line and the inland road route from Melbourne to Brisbane. Over 80% of Australia's population can be reached within 12 hours drive from Parkes.    Read more

  • R and R TravelsWestern NSWR and R Travels

    Trip summary

    May 27 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C

    We stayed in the following camp grounds;

    Gulgong - Gulgong Tourist Park
    Dubbo - NRMA Dubbo
    Cobar - Cobar Caravan Park
    Broken Hill - Broken Hill Tourist Park
    Menindee Lakes - Menindee Lakes Caravan Park
    Mildura - Big4 Mildura Gateway Park
    Darlington Point - Darlington Point Riverside Caravan Park
    Forbes - Forbes Apex Riverside Tourist Park
    Parkes - Spicer Caravan Park    Read more

    Trip end
    May 27, 2025
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