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Nambucca Region
The Nambucca Valley - Southern Gateway to Coffs Coast
Nambucca
This lovely, unspoiled "Valley of the Crooked River" throws open the door to pristine golden ocean beaches for surfing, diving and safe bathing, sub-tropical rainforest, quaint historic townships of the hinterland and lazy winding rivers for relaxed fishing or just puttering about in a boat.
Nambucca offers the peaceful alternative of small, friendly towns with all the amenities but without the big-town feel. The region's many attractions are all within a short pleasant drive of the Pacific Highway as it passes through the foothills of the Great Dividing Range which reaches right to the coast in this fascinating valley.
Sample the many delights of the beautiful diverse Nambucca Valley. Meet its friendly folk. You'll want to stay a while!
This is an area where you can relax and forget the stresses of city life. Enjoy a round of golf, a game of tennis or bowls, paddle a canoe, try out snorkelling or diving or chance your luck with a fishing line. We've got mountains to climb, rainforests to explore and miles of clean, uncrowded beaches where the surf welcomes and the sand is so clean it squeaks beneath your feet!
If arts, crafts and history are more your thing we have galleries and museums to satisfy your needs. Heritage hotels crowd the main streets in the region which makes a pub crawl an educational as well as enjoyable few hours.
Before you return home stop by the V Wall - an outdoor gallery where visitors are encouraged to leave a message on giant boulders lining the breakwall.
Accommodation options are numerous. Pitch a tent, bring your van or stay in an on-site van, holiday unit or house, motel, cabin, hostel, country pub, farm cottage, guest house, retreat, B&B - there is something to suit every pocket or taste.
History of the Nambucca Valley
The name "nambucca" is apparently a corruption of the Aboriginal word "ngambugka" which roughly means "crooked river".
Aborigines have lived in the valley for some 10,000 years. The Gumbayngirr people lived north of the river and the Ngaku tribe south of the river.
European settlement began in the 1820's with red cedar tree cutters, followed over the next 50 or so years by pastoralists, sawmillers, shipbuilders and farmers. The main countries of origin of European settlers were England, Ireland, Scotland, Germany and Scandinavia.
Bowraville and surrounds
Inland - just 20 minutes drive along meandering country roads from Nambucca Heads - is Bowraville. Referred to as the "Veranda Post Town" Bowraville has many original buildings from yesteryear.
At the Bowraville Folk Museum you will be transported back to a time when horse-power was fuelled by hay, not petrol. The artefacts, machinery and memorabilia have been collected, restored and put on display by a lively band of enthusiastic citizens who all take immense pride in showing you their museum. This is a real hands-on place and if an item was used by early settlers in the region, you are sure to find it here.
Afterward, stroll the main street, stop for a cool refreshment at the pub and perhaps a counter meal with some locals. B& B’s and Pub accommodation available. The Bowra Hotel (1912) is a fine example of the 'verandah post' style of building. You are sure to meet some local characters in the bar and the view from the upstairs verandah is spectacular.
Macksville and surrounds
Macksville is one of the main commercial centres in the Nambucca Valley.
The town sits on both sides of the Nambucca River and affords the town spectacular river views. Parks on either side of the river provide a welcome break for road travellers.
This is where a visit to Mary Boulton’s Pioneer Cottage helps you appreciate the past. Then stroll the main street and fossick for bric a brac, take time out at the historic hotel overlooking the river or perhaps a round of golf at the local course.
Nambucca Heads and surrounds
In the 19th century Nambucca Heads was a busy shipbuilding centre and coastal port, today it is a major holiday destination.
A fifty metre mosaic sculpture with dolphin, fish, octopus, birds and crocodile is the creative main street feature of Nambucca Heads. Stop for a stroll, a coffee or chat with locals.
Down the hill from town where the Nambucca River and sea marry is the V Wall breakwater. But it’s more than a breakwater. This is one of the largest outdoor art galleries in Australia and the artists are you and I! Over the years locals and visitors alike have lovingly and creatively painted the boulders. Some are true works of art, some are funny and others still are romantic. But all are colourful! Bring some paint and create your own piece of art.
Around Nambucca Heads there are good beaches for fishing, swimming and surfing. Boats, canoes and sail craft for hire and accommodation to suit most styles - caravan and camping, hotels, motels and self contained units many overlooking the sea. Or if you prefer a dip in tranquil waters then there is the Nambucca River - Bellwood Park is a perfect spot.
Scotts Head
A popular spot for sailing, swimming and surfing, beach and rock fishing, diving and snorkelling. Kilometres of beaches, spectacular headlands, Warrell Creek estuary, Way Way State Forest and a Recreation and Camping Reserve. This southern-most beach location in Nambucca Valley is a popular holiday destination for families.
Valla has excellent secluded beaches, rainforest and rural drives. Macadamia nuts cover the slopes where red cedar once grew.
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