Welcome to the Great Western Plains, a must-visit region in NSW. From Dubbo to Wellington, discover open landscapes, family-friendly attractions, rich history and unforgettable experiences in the heart of regional Australia.
Discover the Great Western Plains
Great adventures start in the Dubbo Region and the Great Western Plains, one of regional NSW’s most diverse and accessible destinations. With Dubbo as your gateway, explore iconic attractions, wide open landscapes and authentic country experiences.
Unforgettable experiences
Reconnect and explore at your own pace. From family-friendly attractions to off-the-beaten-track discoveries, the Great Western Plains offers space to unwind, adventure and create lasting memories.
Natural landscapes and outdoor adventure
Explore vast landscapes across regional NSW. Walk, cycle or drive through open plains, national parks and scenic waterways, or experience unforgettable nights under star-filled skies.
History, heritage and culture
Discover the rich stories of the Great Western Plains, shaped by Aboriginal culture and colonial history. From ancient landscapes to heritage towns, every journey reveals something new.
Events and local experiences
Experience the region like a local with a vibrant calendar of events, from country shows and rodeos to festivals, aviation experiences and community celebrations across Dubbo, Wellington and beyond.
Image credit: Destination NSW
Small distances, big adventures!
Are we there yet?
| Dubbo | Wellington | Gilgandra | Narromine | Nyngan | Warren | Coonabarabran | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubbo | - | 30 min | 40 min | 30 min | 105 mins | 75 min | 110 min |
| Wellington | 30 min | - | 75 min | 60 min | 145 mins | 120 min | 150 min |
| Gilgandra | 40 min | 75 min | - | 60 min | 105 mins | 50 min | 60 min |
| Narromine | 30 min | 60 min | 60 min | - | 105 mins | 50 min | 120 min |
| Nyngan | 105 min | 145 mins | 105 mins | 105 mins | - | 50 mins | 170 mins |
| Warren | 75 min | 120 min | 50 min | 50 min | 50 mins | - | 120 min |
| Coonabarabran | 110 min | 150 min | 60 min | 120 min | 170 mins | 120 min | - |
Explore Dubbo and Wellington NSW
Rediscover real adventure in the Dubbo Region. Explore Dubbo and Wellington NSW in the heart of the Great Western Plains, where wide open spaces, iconic attractions and family-friendly experiences make it easy to reconnect, unwind and create unforgettable memories.
Gilgandra, NSW
Discover Gilgandra NSW, a welcoming country town in the Great Western Plains, known for its rich history, strong community spirit and relaxed rural lifestyle.
Located along the Castlereagh River, Gilgandra is home to the Coo-ee Heritage Centre, telling the story of the famous Coo-ee March, and the Gilgandra Cultural Precinct, featuring museums, murals and local history. Nearby villages including Armatree and Tooraweenah offer country pubs, scenic landscapes and access to the Warrumbungle region.
Explore local shops, enjoy country hospitality and experience authentic regional NSW charm. Gilgandra is the perfect place to slow down, connect and explore.
Events to Attend in Gilgandra NSW
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Gilgandra Show (May)
A traditional country show with livestock, competitions, rides and family-friendly entertainment. -
Coo-ee Festival (October)
Celebrate Gilgandra’s history with parades, markets and community events honouring the iconic Coo-ee March. -
Under the Gums Festival (October)
Enjoy live music, food, art and culture in a relaxed outdoor setting beneath the gums.
Find out more about events and what’s on in Gilgandra: gilgandraregion.com.au/events
Gilgandra Visitor Information Centre
Gilgandra Coo-ee Heritage Centre, 6452 Newell Highway
(02) 6817 8700 | gilgandraregion.com.au
Narromine, NSW
Discover Narromine NSW, a historic town in the Dubbo Region and the Great Western Plains, renowned for its rich aviation heritage and world-class gliding conditions.
Set along the Macquarie River, Narromine is the gateway to nearby villages including Tomingley, on the edge of Goobang National Park, and Trangie, known for its Cobb & Co history and rural charm.
Explore local attractions, enjoy country hospitality, and discover unique shopping and dining experiences across the region. Narromine is the perfect stop to experience authentic regional NSW.
Events to Attend in Narromine NSW
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Tomingley Picnic Races (April)
A classic country racing event with a relaxed atmosphere, local food and community spirit. -
Mungery Picnic Races (October)
Enjoy a day at the races with scenic surrounds, country hospitality and a true regional experience. -
Narromine Dolly Parton Festival (October)
A vibrant celebration of music, fun and community, attracting visitors from across regional NSW.
Narromine Visitor Information Centre
Narromine Aerodrome, Mitchell Highway, Narromine
(02) 6889 7131 | narromineregion.com.au
Nyngan, NSW
Discover Nyngan NSW, a welcoming outback town in the Great Western Plains, known for its rich history, relaxed pace and authentic country charm.
Set along the Bogan River, Nyngan offers scenic landscapes, riverside walks and a true connection to rural Australia. Explore the town’s heritage at the Nyngan Museum and visit the iconic Big Bogan, one of Australia’s famous ‘big things’.
Nearby villages including Coolabah, Hermidale and Girilmambone offer unique outback experiences, historic sites and a strong sense of community across the Bogan Shire.
Enjoy country hospitality, local dining and a peaceful atmosphere—Nyngan is the perfect place to slow down and experience regional NSW.
Events to Attend in Nyngan NSW
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Carp Muster (February)
A unique outback event focused on sustainability, community and fun along the Bogan River. -
Hermidale Gymkhana (April)
A classic country event celebrating horsemanship, community spirit and rural traditions. -
Duck Creek Picnic Races (July)
Enjoy a true country racing experience with relaxed vibes, local food and outback hospitality.
Bogan Shire Council
81 Cobar Street, Nyngan
(02) 6835 9000 | bogan.nsw.gov.au
Warren, NSW
Discover Warren NSW, a charming country town in the Great Western Plains, known as the gateway to the Macquarie Marshes, one of Australia’s most significant inland wetland systems.
Set along the Macquarie River, Warren offers a unique blend of nature, adventure and relaxation. Explore scenic walking trails, enjoy fishing and birdwatching, or take in the beauty of the surrounding wetlands, home to abundant wildlife including the iconic brolga.
Experience warm country hospitality, local events and a relaxed rural lifestyle. Warren is the perfect destination to slow down, reconnect with nature and explore one of regional NSW’s most unique landscapes.
Events to Attend in Warren NSW
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Warren Triathlon (March)
A popular community event attracting competitors and spectators for a day of fitness and fun. -
Warren Chamber Music Festival (May)
Enjoy world-class performances in an intimate regional setting, celebrating music and culture. -
Warren Cotton Cup (November)
Experience the excitement of country racing with a vibrant atmosphere and strong community spirit.
Warren Visitor Information Centre
2 Coonamble Road, Warren
(02) 6847 6665 | warren.nsw.gov.au/discover/visitor-guide
Warrumbungles, NSW
Discover the Warrumbungles NSW, one of regional Australia’s most spectacular природ landscapes and home to the Warrumbungle National Park and Australia’s first Dark Sky Park.
Known for its dramatic volcanic formations and clear night skies, the Warrumbungles is a must-visit destination for hiking, stargazing and outdoor adventure. Explore scenic walking trails, climb iconic peaks and experience breathtaking views across the Great Western Plains.
Nearby towns including Coonabarabran, Coolah, Dunedoo, Mendooran, Baradine and Binnaway offer country charm, local experiences and easy access to national parks, forests and cultural attractions.
Events to Attend in the Warrumbungles NSW
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Coonabarabran Bunny Bazaar (April)
A vibrant community market showcasing local produce, crafts and regional hospitality. -
Science in the Pub – Coonabarabran (October)
A unique event blending science, storytelling and entertainment in a relaxed local setting. -
Siding Spring Observatory Open Day (October)
Explore Australia’s leading optical astronomy facility and discover the wonders of the night sky.
Coonabarabran Visitor Information Centre
with Diprotodon Museum
Newell Highway, Coonabarabran NSW 2357
(02) 6849 2144 | warrumbungleregion.com.au
The Great Escape - Dubbo Region NSW
Unplug, unwind and explore the Dubbo Region NSW. From Dubbo to Wellington and across the Great Western Plains, discover wide open spaces, iconic attractions and unforgettable experiences—perfect for road trips, family getaways and true regional NSW escapes.
Escape to the Dubbo Region NSW and discover the freedom of the Great Western Plains. From well-appointed caravan parks and campgrounds to off-grid camping experiences, you’ll find the perfect place to stay, relax and reconnect.
Spend your days fishing in rivers and lakes, kayaking along peaceful waterways, or exploring the natural beauty of regional NSW. As the sun sets, unwind under wide open skies and enjoy the tranquillity of the Australian bush.
With space to breathe and time to explore, the Great Western Plains offers unspoilt landscapes, native wildlife and a true sense of escape—just a short drive from major cities, yet a world away.
- Observatory Road, Coonabarabran NSW 2357
Siding Spring Observatory near Coonabarabran is home to Australia’s largest optical telescopes and world-class astronomy experiences. Explore the Exploratory Centre, discover the wonders of dark skies, and enjoy stargazing in the Warrumbungle region - perfect for space enthusiasts and families.
- 15 Burton Street, Warren
Warren Youth Centre and Community Hub is a welcoming space supporting connection, learning and wellbeing in the Warren region. Offering inclusive programs, activities and events for all ages, it’s a vibrant community hub where people can grow, engage and connect.
- 50 Wellington Street, Baradine NSW 2396
Pilliga Forest Discovery Centre offers an interactive, family-friendly experience exploring Indigenous and European history, wildlife and conservation. Located near the Pilliga Nature Reserve, it’s the perfect starting point to discover Sculptures in the Scrub and nearby sandstone caves.
- Coo-ee March Memorial Park, Newell Highway, Gilgandra NSW 2827
Follow the story of the 1915 Coo-ee March and discover local Aboriginal culture, art and produce at the Coo-ee Heritage Centre. Explore the Rural Museum or unwind with a scenic stroll along Windmill Walk in Gilgandra.
- 20 Powell Pl, Narromine NSW 2821
Flying with Grace offers unforgettable flight experiences over Narromine, from introductory scenic flights to hands-on flying lessons. Discover the thrill of aviation and take to the skies in the heart of the Dubbo Region with a unique and memorable adventure.
- 2630 Dandry Road, Coonabarabran
Pilliga Pottery offers a unique farmstay near Dubbo with creative accommodation, camping and pet-friendly stays. Known for its handcrafted pottery and workshops, it’s a peaceful country escape where guests can relax, create and experience life in regional NSW.