Greater Sydney Guides Attractions Events in New South Wales

Agnes Banks, New South Wales, is located on the uppermost northwest boundary of the City of Penrith.

The suburb was settled as early as 1804 by Andrew Thompson who leased his land out to tenant farmers on the gently undulating alluvial farmlands. Natural woodlands and sandy deposits make up the higher landscape of this suburb. Agnes Banks is a rural outpost of the City of Penrith which has kept its intrinsic agricultural value and rural lifestyle.

For visitor information about Agnes Banks please contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre.

Annangrove is located approximately 40 kilometres northwest of Sydney in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

Annangrove is located between Kenthurst and Kellyville and was named after Annangrove House. The house belonged to Edward Charles Johnston whose grandfather, George Johnston, was the original settler in the present Annangrove area. The house took its name from the Scottish town of Annan where George Johnston was born. Edward Johnston bought land here in 1893 from Bennett William Johns who made the original purchase of Crown land in 1886. By 1895 the post office had taken the name of Johnston's house, as did the school, and by 1915 Annangrove was the customary name for the suburb. The area was originally utilised by Europeans for timber cutting in the vast tracts of bushland. The cleared land was then used to establish orchards.

Annangrove is now a peaceful rural suburb dominated by large houses, nurseries and hobby farms, and offers the tourist tranquil country drives.

Towns surrounding Annangrove include: Kellyville, Kenthurst, Nelson and Rouse Hill.

This historic town named after the village of Appin in Scotland, dates back to 1811 and was the fifth village in the colony. In 1824, explorers, Hume and Hovell commenced their expedition to Port Phillip from this district and a monument stands on the road from Campbelltown commemorating the commencement of that journey.

The rugged beauty of Wollondilly is a feature of the drive between Appin and Douglas Park, through Broughtons Pass and crossing the Cataract River. Two coal mines, which also operate an innovative, methane powered, electricity generating system, have been an important factor in the town's growth.

A real pub culture and a contemporary dining scene.

Historically Balmain was one of Sydney's oldest working class suburbs where many of Sydney's ferries were built. Today it's renowned for being one of the city's trendiest and most affluent suburbs. Some of Australia's well-known writers, actors and entertainers call this harbourside village their home.

Balmain has more than its share of new and traditional Aussie pubs where you're encouraged to mingle with the locals. Eating options are plentiful with buzzing cafes and restaurants offering a range of experiences from pubs to al fresco- style fine dining. If you go on a Saturday, explore the market held in the grounds of the local church and see why it attracts people from all over Sydney. Balmain's colourful streets' and historical charm is combined with the fashionable food and shopping options of today.

Balmain Highlights....
Arrive by ferry at the foot of Darling Street and walk up the hill into the village.
Browse through the shops to find recycled art, contemporary galleries, jewellery and second hand books.
Explore Balmain's working class origins by walking through the backstreets and discovering charming old buildings. The Balmain Walk pamphlet is available from the Watchhouse.
Join the Balmain Historic Pub Tour - A walking tour taking in the history and local hotel scene every Saturday.
Enjoy a drink and great live music at one of the many pubs': The London, The Commercial, The Cat and Fiddle, Sir William Wallace, The Royal, The Riverview.
Take a gourmet self-guided walking tour incorporating the providores, hand made chocolate shops and other delectables.
Visit Herbie's Spices for the Southern Hemisphere's largest range of culinary herbs and spices.
Walk from Darling Street to the Dawn Fraser pool and see where Australia's greatest Olympian spent her youth.

This beautiful, harbourside beach offers visitors safe swimming and stunning scenery - including one of Sydney's best views of the heads.

In Bargo, settlers first recorded sightings of the koala, lyrebird and wombat. Ex-convict, John Wilson, noted the tree animals in his diary describing the lyrebird as a pheasant, hence the name Pheasants Nest, and recorded the koala as being known to the Aboriginal people as Cullawine.

The area boasts two sanctuaries. Wirrimbirra Sanctuary is preserved as a remnant of the original Bargo Brush. The property includes excellent bushwalking tracks, commercial native plant nursery, wildlife enclosures and cabin accommodation. The unique Dingo Sanctuary is located in a natural setting for Australia's native dog and is a great learning experience.

Baulkham Hills is located approximately 30 kilometres northwest of Sydney in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

William Joyce, the first settler in the Hills, was given a grant of 30 acres in 1794 near today’s Junction Road and Old Windsor Road. The oldest farmhouse in the area is Joyce Farmhouse in Valerie Crescent near Seven Hills. It was built in 1804 by William Joyce, destroyed by fire and rebuilt in 1806, and then used as an inn between 1811 and 1826. Andrew McDougall, a settler from Buckholm Hills, County of Roxburgh in Scotland, was given land in 1799, which he named Roxburgh Place. He was responsible for giving the district its present name as it reminded him of his homeland. The name was officially recognised in 1902.

Baulkham Hills is a busy residential suburb linked to the city by the Hills M2 Motorway. The area has a host of restaurants, quiet walks through Excelsior Bushland Reserve and the beautiful Baulkham Hills Rose Garden.

Towns surrounding Baulkham Hills include: Bella Vista, Castle Hill, Northmead and Seven Hills.

Berambing is a small village along the Bells Line of Road, Home to Chapel on the Hill and other accommodation places you will find nearby if attending a Wedding in this area. Close to Mt Tomah Gardens and other plant festivals that are held in the area throughout the year.

Berkshire Park, New South Wales, is located on the uppermost northeast boundary of the City of Penrith. Its eastern boundary is Ropes Creek and the suburbs of Llandilo and Londonderry are its southern and western neighbours.

Berkshire Park is a sparsely populated rural suburb with limited community facilities. Its small population and rural lifestyle are an obvious attraction and characteristic. It is also one of the most diverse suburbs in the City of Penrith, accommodating the Animal Memorial Pet Cemetery and Crematorium, the John Morony Correctional Centre, the Castlereagh Bicentennial Demonstration Forest (Castlereagh Nature Reserve), the waste management centre and the Racehorse Education Centre.

Berkshire Park, although a rural and isolated suburb, is also representative of the diversity and rustic aspects of the City of Penrith.

For visitor information about Berkshire Park please contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre.

Berrilee is located approximately 30 kilometres north of Sydney in the Shire of Hornsby.

Berrilee offers a pleasant country drive to the tranquil setting of Berowra Waters.

Towns surrounding Berrilee include: Arcadia, Berowra, Berowra Waters and Galston.

Bilpin is well known for its apples and many other fruits. Enjoy the beauties of nature or dine in the sophistication Bilpin can provide. There are a variety of types of accommodation, even a train carraige or two.

Follow the Bells Line of Road to Mount Tomah, the breathtaking cold climate Botanic Gardens, home to the only Wollemi Pine on public display. Fine food and refreshments can be enjoyed as you enjoy the views.

Stop at one of the many fruit stalls along the way. Enjoy the fresh mountain air, and listen for the Bell Birds as you travel along this road.

Bligh Park is a residential township south of historical Windsor. Close to the Oasis Swimming Centre and Netball Courts and also nearby to Windsor Downs Nature Reserve, with walking trails accessible from Bligh Park. There is no accommodation in this area but it does have a service station and small shopping centre.

Australian beach culture.....with attitude

Home to Bondi Surf Bathers, the oldest life saving club in Australia established in 1906, Bondi's beach-centric reputation is long established. With its lifesavers, surfers, sun worshippers and barefoot locals Bondi is a definitive example of Sydney's city beach culture.

While the beach is popular, cross Campbell Parade and enjoy Bondi away from the sand. Take in the view of the Pacific from one of the laidback outdoor cafes or trendy restaurants, such as Hugo's, Moorish or Icebergs, that serve lively crowds with brunch, lunch and dinner. Watch for celebrities from behind your sunglasses. Don't have any? Bondi is the place to buy them, with an abundance of shops selling the whole gamut of fashionable surfwear and beach accessories or visit the popular beachside markets on Sundays.

For accommodation Swiss Grand Hotel and Ravesi's offer beachside rooms whilst B&B's provide a more secluded environment a couple of streets back from the beach.

Key Bondi Experiences...
Enjoy the outdoor dining scene and watch the passing parade of roller bladers, skateboarders and exercise fanatics pounding the promenade from the comfort of your chair.
Take the Bondi to Bronte scenic cliff walk and reward yourself with fish and chips or a fresh mango whip at the Bronte end.
Learn to surf with 'Lets Go Surfing'.
Swim in the newly renovated Bondi Icebergs surf pool.
Visit the Marine Discovery Centre or enjoy a seafood lunch or perhaps a gelato at the famous Bondi Pavilion.
Down on the sand, partake in a lifesaving demonstration at Australia's oldest life saving club.
Shop till you drop at the nearby Bondi Junction mall and Westfield Shopping Centre (the largest in the Southern Hemisphere).

Inhabited by backpackers, billionaires, board riders and the body beautiful, Bondi is one of Sydney’s most eclectic and exciting precincts. A walk along its promenade gives you the chance to experience its carefree sun-drenched lifestyle. The main thoroughfare of Campbell Parade offers a wealth of surf shops, takeaway outlets, souvenir sellers, cafés, restaurants, bars and fish and chip shops. To discover some of Sydney’s other stunning beaches, follow the boardwalk to Tamarama (also known as Glamarama), Bronte and Coogee.

Bowen Mountain is situated between Kurrajong Village and Grose Vale. Bowen Mountain Park is a delightful small park with magnificent views to the east. It features a huge Bunya Pine Tree in the Centre, has a shelter, picnic tables and a childrens playground. Nearby there are some great bushwalking tracks. You will also find a delightful art gallery. Close to the Village of Kurrajong with many other delightful cafes and galleries.

Box Hill is located approximately 40 kilometres northwest of Sydney in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The original inhabitants of the Box Hill area were the Darug people. The Darug were the custodians of the majority of what is now the Greater Sydney region. They were divided into a number of different ‘clans’, whose quick demise upon European settlement has sadly resulted in very little information remaining on how they utilised the local area.

There have been two possibilities identified for the origin of the areas name. The first is that it takes its name from a stand of box trees that were once in the area. The second is that it was named after the hunting boxes built on the tops of the hills in the nineteenth century. It was common during the 1800’s for people to come from the city to their country hunting boxes for a few days hunting. The position of the boxes on the hills made it easy for hunters to take aim at their targets. One building has survived: "The Hunting Lodge”, thought to have been built by S.H. Terry on Governor Bligh's "Copenhagen Farm".

Box Hill has open rural landscapes popular with homeowners and specialist gardeners, such as those involved in hydroponics.

Towns surrounding Box Hill include: Maraylya, Nelson, Rouse Hill and Windsor


Visitor Information:

Sydney Hills Visitor Centre
656A Old Northern Road, Dural
(02) 9651 4411

Email: enquiries@sydneyhills.com.au
Website: www.sydneyhills.com.au

Brownlow Hill is a rural area of New South Wales approximately five kilometres north-west of Camden and close to the University of Sydney Constorphine Farm, as well as Cogno's Wines. The Nepean River is also located nearby and Scenic Joy Flights over the area are available from nearby Camden Airport.

Experience Bundeena - untouched beaches, forests, cultural and historical walks, a thriving art scene and unforgettable dive sites. Bundeena is a unique weekend getaway located only 55 kilometres south of the Sydney Central Business District. Get there by car or drive to Cronulla and catch the ferry.
For more information on Bundeena, go to www.visitbundeena.com.

Must-dos in Bundeena:
• On the first Sunday of each month experience the Bundeena Art Trail where you can purchase original works from some 27 local artists. The high-calibre artists include the Australian-Chinese painter Jiawei Shen who was commissioned by the National Portrait Gallery to paint Crown Princess Mary. For more information see www.arttrail.com.au.
• Take a guided tour in a kayak with Bundeena Sea Kayaks. The two and a half hour tours are available for all levels of kayaking ability and cost from $55. For more information go to www.bundeenakayaks.com.au or ph: 02 9544 5294.
• Dine with the locals at Café Manna ph: 02 9523 9555 or Passionfruit Café, ph: 02 9527 6555; or enjoy a lazy picnic at one of the most picturesque spots in Sydney – the Bonnie Vale picnic ground.

Buxton, one of the pleasant village communities of the Wollondilly region of New South Wales, is named after a town in Derbyshire, England. Buxton is a regular destination for the popular steam train rides that are offered by the Rail Heritage Centre at Thirlmere.

Buxton is above sea level 380 metres.

A day trip to South East Asia

With Vietnamese soup shops, Chinese grocery stores and Thai herb shops, Cabramatta gives you a unique slice of South East Asian life. It is an excellent place to learn about the exotic fruits, vegetables, meat and the special ingredients used in authentic Asian cooking as there are over a dozen types of South East Asian cuisine represented amongst the area's food shops. Cabramatta's restaurants are equally diverse.

The focal point for Cabramatta is Freedom Plaza where local families congregate, women sell herbs and old men play cards. The Plaza contains a myriad of specialty shops, soup stands and take-away food stalls.

Cambridge Gardens, New South Wales, is located within the City of Penrith.

Cambridge Gardens is a small residential suburb north of Cambridge Park with the busy arterial Northern Road its western boundary.

Werrington Downs lies along its eastern border and the extensive unoccupied ADI (Australian Defence Industries) site to its north.

For visitor information contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre.

Cambridge Park, New South Wales, Australia is located in the northern section of the City of Penrith.

Cambridge Park is an older established suburb of residential housing on larger blocks. It is located north of Kingswood and Werrington. The smaller satelite suburbs of Cambridge Gardens, Werrington Downs and Werrington County are located to its north.

Cambridge Park continued as a rural area for many years after the original land grant St Stephens was subdivided in the 1880s. By 1970, the area was populated and settled with urban housing.

Cambridge Park is a dynamic suburb of Penrith with easy access to the many facilities in the City. Featuring close access to private and public schooling and an international sports stadium for basketball.

For visitor Information contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre

Campbelltown is steeped in Australian Colonial History a city set in a rural background. Experience the heritage through one of the Heritage and Cultural
walking tours or a heritage driving tour. Campbelltown's premier festival is the Fisher's Ghost Festival throughout the first two weeks in November and
includes entertainment, a street parade, fun run, art show, carnivals, night markets, a rodeo and fireworks.

At Campbelltown, you can get close to nature, see a koala and native flora and fauna while bushwalking along the Georges River Gorge. At the local
observatory, view the southern stars in all their splendour. While in the area visit Mount Annan Botanic Gardens, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere,
where you will see native Australian flora presented by the Royal Botanic Gardens.

The cultural precinct of Campbelltown includes the Campbelltown Arts Centre, Japanese Gardens, Sculptor Gardens, The Museum, Ceremonial Tea House
and Quondong Visitor Information Centre.

Collect your free walking brochures on Campbelltown from the multi award winning Campbelltown Visitor Information Centre 'Quondong'. Available are
brochures on weekend country markets in the area, accommodation, attractions, activities and events. The locals at 'Quondong' will provide you with
directions and let you know current exhibitions and special events.

Carlingford is located approximately 15 kilometres northwest of Sydney in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

In the early years of European settlement the area was known as Mobbs Hill after William Mobbs an early settler. Carlingford probably received its name to honour Lord Carlingford who was Under-secretary of State for the Colonies from 1857 to 1860. His title is associated with the town of Carlingford in Ireland. The name was suggested by Frederick Cox who heard one of his employees describe the similarities between Mobbs Hill and the scenery of Carlingford in Ireland. Residents voted for the name in 1886.

Carlingford is an attractive suburban destination comprising two shopping centres, restaurants, a variety of accommodation and it is located within easy reach of the city via the M2 Motorway. The town also has a railway station and bus networks providing access to the city and Parramatta.

Towns surrounding Carlingford include: Epping, North Parramatta, North Rocks, Oatlands and West Pennant Hills.

Castle Hill is located approximately 30 kilometres northwest of Sydney in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The exact origin of the name Castle Hill is not known. One origin is thought to be the fine views offered by the hills in the district. Governor Phillip first saw the area on one of his exploratory trips in 1791. Governor King began ‘Government Farm’ in the area in July 1801, referring to it as Castle Hill in March 1802. The farm of 34,539 acres ranged from West Pennant Hills to Maroota, although only a small portion was cultivated. In 1804, 266 Irish convicts escaped the farm with stolen rifles and makeshift weapons, intending to march on Parramatta before overthrowing the English authority in Sydney Town. Their plot was betrayed and they were consequently defeated by the English redcoats. It was the first European uprising on Australian soil and is known as the Castle Hill rebellion. Castle Hill Heritage Park in Banks Road is a remnant of Government Park.

Castle Hill Heritage Park in Banks Road remains a remnant of Government Park. The first free settler in Castle Hill was Frenchman, Baron Verincourt de Clambe, who received a grant of 200 acres in 1802. It has been suggested that de Clambe's house "The Hermitage" was commonly called 'The Castle' by locals, because of the Baron's noble status.

Castle Hill is a vibrant hub for Sydney’s northwest. It offers visitors a selection of attractions including the annual Castle Hill Show and Orange Blossom Festival along with a huge variety of restaurants, diverse shopping opportunities, accommodation and leisure activities including; movies, ice skating, tenpin bowling, rock climbing and major sports facilities.

Towns surrounding Castle Hill include: Baulkham Hills, Bella Vista, Dural, Glenhaven, North Rocks and West Pennant Hills.

Castlereagh is located east of the Nepean River north of Penrith.

This suburb is one of the most historic sites in Australia's history, being one of Governor Lachlan Macquarie's five towns founded in 1810. After two hundred years, the rich river flats continue to provide for a thriving agricultural industry along the Nepean River. Many of this district's pioneering families originated from Castlereagh.

The suburb's historical importance is reflected in its many surviving farmhouses, outbuildings, churches and cemeteries. Castlereagh Road is an important transport link connecting the Hawkesbury and Penrith regions.

The impact of the massive Penrith Lakes Scheme has, and will in the future, change the face of Castlereagh and its neighbouring suburbs.

For visitor Information contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre

Cattai is located about 15 kilometres from Windsor and approximately 60 kilometres northwest of Sydney in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The original inhabitants of the Cattai area were the Darug people. The Darug were the custodians of the majority of what is now the Greater Sydney region. They were divided into a number of different ‘clans’, whose quick demise upon European settlement has sadly resulted in very little information remaining on how they utilised the local area.

The name 'Cattai' is derived from a Darug word of unknown meaning. It was first applied to "Caddie Park", a homestead on "Cattai Farm" owned by the First Fleet Assistant Surgeon Thomas Arndell. The homestead is now part of Cattai National Park. The name has been variously spelled as Caddie, Catta, and Catye. John Goldsmith an early settler in the area wrote that he had established a farm at 'Cat Eye" in 1805.

Cattai National Park is a major attraction here. The park borders the Hawkesbury River and offers a substantial picnic area, quiet bushwalks, camping facilities and pre-booked tours of the historic homestead. A number of Indigenous rock carvings and axe grinding sites can also be seen here adjacent to the old mill, which remains Australia’s oldest industrial ruin.

Nearby Townships to Cattai are: Pitt Town (which has a Restaurant Bakery, Convenience Store, Chemist & Post Office) and South Maroota.

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Circular Quay is part of The Rocks precinct - the historic site of Sydney’s first European settlement. Bursting with a colourful history dating back to convict days, The Rocks is a maze of sandstone lanes, cul-de-sacs and courtyards, jam-packed with shops, warehouses and terraces that were built in the early 19th century.

While The Rocks was once home to Sydney’s dockworkers and stevedores, it’s now a magnet for international visitors, who flock to its many shops, boutiques, pubs and restaurants.

Clarendon is situated between the townships of Windsor and Richmond and is the home of Hawkesbury Race Club and Hawkesbury District Agricultural Association. For patrons coming to the Hawkesbury Races or any of the events at the Showground, convenience of the rail to Clarendon is a bonus, as both venues are right near the train station.

Cliftonville is located approximately 80 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Hornsby.

The original inhabitants of the Cliftonville area were the Darug people. The Darug were the custodians of the majority of what is now the Greater Sydney region. They were divided into a number of different ‘clans’, whose quick demise upon European settlement has sadly resulted in very little information remaining on how they utilised the local area.

Cliftonville is very popular with water-skiers.

Towns surrounding Cliftonville include: Leetsvale, Lower Portland and Maroota.

The spectacular Colo Region, locally known as adventure country, offers accommodation, shops and many outdoor recreation activities. From paintball skirmish to horse riding, 4WD touring, canoeing bring your own canoe, abseiling and bushwalking. Or just have a simple family picnic, next to one of the last pristine river systems in New South Wales. This area comprises of the Wollemi and Yengo National Parks and the Parr State Recreation Area.

Accommodation nearby of Bed and Breakfast or if you prefer Camping at Upper Colo, either way you will not be disappointed.

Colyton, New South Wales Australia, is located on the easternmost side of the Penrith Local Government Area.

Its boundary is Ropes Creek, the Great Western Highway, Marsden Road and the M4 Motorway. Colyton is within the greater regional locality of St Marys. This suburb is mainly residential, featuring large sporting fields, a primary school, high school, shopping centre and a Life Education Centre. There is some industrial activity along Roper Road. With convenient access to both the Great Western Highway and the M4 Motorway, Colyton offers easy able to travel to work and to leisure activities.

Colyton is one of the older established suburbs with older homes on large blocks of land. Historically, the name Colyton generally referred to the area east of Ropes Creek. The present site of Colyton was traditionally known as St Marys.

For visitor Information contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre.

Coogee beach's bay-like tranquillity is popular with families, couples and travellers alike. It also attracts joggers, swimmers, cyclists and roller bladders, who all appreciate working out in Coogee's easy-going atmosphere. Coogee is characterised by a refusal to take itself too seriously.

Don't miss the chance to go on an invigorating coastal walk along sandstone platforms, checking out Maroubra Beach in the south and Clovelly, Bronte and Bondi Beach in the north. If you fancy conquering the waves a surf school operates from Maroubra Beach. Or you can swim in the protected marine reserve of Gordons Bay, just north of Coogee Beach, a haven for snorkelling and scuba diving. Coogee Bay Road boasts smart restaurants alongside hip cafes and fish and chip shops. Away from the beach, try your luck at nearby Royal Randwick Racecourse on a race day. Or watch up and coming stars at a public performance at NIDA, the National Institute of Dramatic Art where many of Australia's fine film actors have studied.

Join locals in the scenic coastal walk enjoying the wonderful ocean views, rock pools and flora and fauna.
Relax over brunch at any of the numerous cafes offering all day breakfasts.
Enjoy a meal with a view or a relaxed drink with friends at the beach side Aquarium Bar, Cushions, Coogee Bay Hotel or the Clovelly Hotel.
Immerse yourself in a marine wonderland by scuba diving or snorkelling at Gordons Bay with one of the local dive operators.
Play a round of golf at one of the international standard golf courses.

One can only speculate on the origin of Couridjah's Aboriginal name meaning "Home of the white ants". Located on the old Loop Line railway, it's hard to believe that this sleepy little hamlet once served as the major railhead for local produce from as far as Bargo. The little railway station is famous for its appearance in television advertising and film.

Cranebrook New South Wales is located in the northern section of the City of Penrith.

Home of the Sydney International Regatta Centre and Penrith Whitewater Stadium. It is surrounded by the rural suburbs of Castlereagh, Llandilo and Londonderry. The urban area of Penrith joins Cranebrook to the south. Cranebrook is bounded by Andrews Road on the south, the Northern Road on the east, Smeeton Road to the north. It takes in part of the Penrith Lakes on the west. Cranebrook is a very historic suburb within the City of Penrith with the McCarthy's Lane Cemetery considered the oldest Catholic Cemetery in Australia.

The suburb today is a mixture of rural and urban aspects. The Mt Pleasant housing estate has now been incorporated into Cranebrook making it the most diverse suburb, in socio-economic terms, in the City. Cranebrook offers splendid views of the Blue Mountains escarpment.

For visitor information contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre.

Like a tiny slice of old Miami, Cronulla’s beachside buildings reflect a different world in their old art-deco buildings and their seaside-pastel paint jobs. There’s a comfortable feel here and it doesn’t endure the press of flesh evident on so many other popular beaches. Here there are rock pools to gaze into, famous breaks to try out, and the chance to learn the important Aussie water skills of surfing and diving.

Cronulla is the only Sydney beach served by a direct railway link from Central Station – the train takes about 45 minutes and practically plonks you on the water’s edge.

A 200 metre walk the other side of Cronulla railway line leads to the quiet inlet of Gunnamatta Bay and from here, a splendidly smart little ferry takes you across the Port Hacking river to Bundeena and the Royal National Park.

There’s also the Esplanade walk starting at South Cronulla beach and looping the Cronulla Peninsula. This is the regular fitness beat for Cronulla locals and takes in shady parks with ocean and bay baths. Manicured Darook Park with its sandy bay beach is favoured by families seeking a sheltered swim away from ocean waves. The Bass and Flinders memorial on the southern tip of the Cronulla Peninsula makes for a superb lookout over the Port Hacking River across to the Royal National Park.

Cronulla Plaza is well regarded for its range of surf boutiques including what is arguably the best swimsuit shop in Sydney.

Dining out in Cronulla is also a part of what makes the lifestyle here so appealing. Brunch or a lazy lunch in one of the many cafes throughout Cronulla is an essential activity, as are cocktails overlooking the beach at the Cronulla RSL of a late afternoon. There are over 40 restaurants to select from in Cronulla, all walking distance from major accommodation. The award wining Sealevel restaurant offers fine seafood dining with views across water and sand dunes to the city. The Brass Monkey is a unique experience. Its basement venue provides for an intimate atmosphere in which to enjoy a fine blend of Mediterranean food and live music from some of the big names in Australia and around the world.

Accommodation can be found in Cronulla and surrounding areas and ranges from restful B&Bs to hotels and serviced apartments.

The Kurnell Peninsula in the Botany Bay National Park marks the place of first contact between Aboriginal Australians and Lieutenant James Cook, who landed here in 1770, paving the way for the establishment of a British Colony in Port Jackson in 1788. You can walk on the actual spot where Cook landed on Kurnell’s’ Monument Track as well as visit the Discovery Centre at Kurnell whose exhibitions and displays explains the Aboriginal significance of the area.

Located south of Sydney is the Sutherland shire stretching from Kurnell to Boat Harbour, Cronulla, Sutherland and the world class Royal National Park where you can explore rugged coastline and lush Australian bush. The area's known for its Aboriginal significance, and is the place of first contact between Aboriginal Australians and Lieutenant James Cook in 1770.

The relaxed beachside suburb of Cronulla is well known for the surfing, and offers relaxed dining with views of the beach. A ferry across the Port Hacking River offers access into the Royal National Park where short walks or extended hikes are available to explore the rugged coastline and lush Australian bush.

Alive with activity day and night Darling Harbour is hugely popular with visitors to Sydney. It has developed into one of the city's largest dining, shopping and entertainment precincts. One of Sydney's hotspots, King Street Wharf, just five is five minutes walk from the city centre and presents a broad range of casual dining and entertainment options.

Cockle Bay Wharf, on the eastern side of Darling Harbour, offers three levels of terraces, waterfront promenades, al fresco cafes and five star restaurants.

Across the water lies Harbourside Shopping Centre, offering a fresh and dynamic mix of shops, restaurants and food outlets with stunning views of the city skyline.

Darling Harbour is home to Sydney Aquarium, the Australian National Maritime Museum, the IMAX theatre, the Outback Centre, the Chinese Garden of Friendship and nearby Powerhouse Museum. Darling Harbour can be navigated by foot or above ground on the famous monorail.

Take a ferry, cruise, sailboat, yacht or speedboat tour from Darling Harbour.
Learn about Aboriginal heritage at Gavala Aboriginal Art and Cultural Education Centre located within Harbourside.
Take the light rail to the Sydney Fish Market for the freshest seafood in town and join a guided tour or learn to master seafood via a gourmet cooking lesson.
Visit Star City for the Lyric Theatre, clubs and casino.

Just east of the city centre, Darlinghurst starts near Hyde Park at Oxford Street and extends towards Kings Cross at William Street. Darlinghurst and Paddington, two suburbs with contrasting personalities, share different ends of Oxford Street with the Darlinghurst section (roughly up to Taylor Square) coming alive at the glitzy annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. By day alternative fashion, homewares and music stores attract a crowd. Yet night time is when Darlinghurst comes into its own with theatres, gay-friendly bars, live music, clubs and other late night entertainment available all week.

Darlo, as it is known by locals, has a number of popular breakfast and late night dining spots, most of which represent good value. The area's cafes have huge people-watching potential, in particular in Victoria Street where casual dining options abound. For example you can enjoy schnitzel, Turkish delights or noodles. Afterwards go for coffee at the achingly trendy Tropicana cafe, which has been attracting the in crowd for decades.

This harbourside precinct with its cosmopolitan café society is home t o a number of designer boutiques, making it perfect for those with a penchant for upmarket fashions. Be sure to wander past the grand residential homes of the coiffed and manicured locals and you’ll notice how Double Bay exudes European assurance. It has the benefit of a down to earth side too - the Wheatsheaf pub hosts live bands and attract young crowds to its courtyard.

To the east is Rose Bay, where you can fly via seaplane over Sydney Harbour to the Northern Beaches. Or simply watch the seaplanes taking off and landing from Rose Bay’s Steyne Park next to the ferry wharf, a great spot for a picnic. In between Double Bay and Rose Bay is Redleaf Pool where you can join locals for a dip in the harbour. Double Bay is easy to get to by bus and train or car, as straightforward access parking is available. Or go via ferry from Circular Quay and sail past some of Sydney Harbour’s most exclusive suburbs on your way.

Explore the European-style lanes and arcades for silverware, fine jewellery, antiques, art and gifts.
Take up residence at one of Double Bay’s five star hotels.
Pamper yourself in sumptuous surrounds at the myriad of hairdressers and beauticians.
Relax al fresco in Double Bay’s famous cafes and restaurants and watch celebrities and business personalities go past.
Charter a yacht from nearby Rushcutters Bay.

The village of Douglas Park is a fine example of what living in Wollondilly is all about: So close to the city yet far enough away to retain a rural atmosphere. The town is named after Dr HG Douglass, an eminent man in his time, serving as clerk of the Legislative Council and later as an elected member. The rugged beauty of the district is a feature of the drive between Douglas Park and Appin. The drive will take you over the Nepean River causeway, a popular local swimming and canoeing spot.

In 1806 Governor Philip Gidley King made several large land grants totalling 3780 acres to his son and three daughters, and the following year Governor William Bligh granted an additional 790 acres to Anna Josepha King, the ex-governor’s wife.The latter property was named Thanks but the Kings returned to England soon after and Philip Gidley King died there in 1808. Meanwhile the estate was managed by Rowland Hassall with William Hayes as overseer.

While Phillip Parker King - the ex-governor’s - son returned to Australia with his wife – the former Harriet Lethbridge - in 1817, he was more involved with naval matters than the land at this time. It wasn’t until his mother returned to Australia in 1832 that the property was renamed Dunhaved - which means ‘hill-head’ - after the 13th century keep of the old castle in Launceston Cornwall, the town of her late husband’s birth. Dunhaved House was built on the property by Phillip Parker King.

The estate of Dunhaved was one of the largest in the Colony. Large numbers of cattle, sheep, pigs, and horses were bred here; grain was grown; and orchards developed. The cattle herd in particular was highly praised, and between 80 and 100 servants were employed to
work the place.

When the property was sold in 1904 and it became a suburb, the name began to change, first of all to Dunheaved and in the 1950s to Dunheved, the name it now bears.Sadly this once great property is no longer in existence. The house was demolished and a large munitions factory was built on the bulk of the estate in 1942, together with a railway station called Dunheved, to transport all the workers involved at the site.

After the Second World War, there was considerable expansion. The area immediately to the south of Dunhaved House became mainly an industrial sub-division and housing estate. The western end, a heavily wooded area, later became the suburb of Kingswood, and the remaining open grasslands disappeared under housing estates in the rapid expansion of the 1960s and 1970s.

Dural is located approximately 35 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The original inhabitants of the Dural area were the Darug people. The Darug were the custodians of the majority of what is now the Greater Sydney region. They were divided into a number of different ‘clans’, whose quick demise upon European settlement has sadly resulted in very little information remaining on how they utilised the local area. The name Dural was derived from a Darug word "Dooral Dooral", which means 'a smoking tree', a word that is believed to have been used in response to the early settlers action of burning stumps after logging.

For many years this peaceful area was utilised for timber cutting and fruit growing. In 1802 Governor King included the area in a government reserve, but the first grant in the area was made to George Hall in 1819. In it’s early years, the area supplied much of Sydney’s produce demand and in the 20th Century built a reputation around the excellent quality of its nurseries.

The village offers a unique rural experience, close to a major city. Dural has many attractions including: an immense array of nurseries, fruit orchards, hobby farms and art and craft galleries. Dural is an ideal location for a scenic drive offering romantic vistas and roadside stalls of fresh flowers and produce, all providing for a rewarding experience. The historic “Roughley House’ (1856) at Dural hosts a popular monthly concert on its lawns called, ‘Jazz at the Pines’.

Towns surrounding Dural include: Galston, Glenhaven, Kethurst, Middle Dural.

From Wilberforce, turn right from the Singleton Road and visit Australia's oldest church at Ebenezer, or continue further down the road to taste some local wine at Tizzana Winery - a touch of Tuscany on the banks of the Hawkesbury River.

Emu Heights is located on the western side of the Nepean River, at the foot of the Blue Mountains. It is bounded by the suburb of Emu Heights, the Blue Mountains Local Government Area and the Nepean River.

The historic Old Bathurst Road which cuts through the suburb is used as a convenient road by those living in the lower Blue Mountains. Emu Heights rises above Emu Plains to overlook the Nepean Valley and the surrounding Penrith suburbs across the river. Emu Heights is on the Blue Mountains Escarpment which creates a unique blend of housing and natural beauty away from the busy flow of the city.

The name Emu Heights was formally assigned in early 1976. Prior to this time it was known locally as The Estate and was a neighbourhood of Emu Plains. Originally the area consisted of orchards and dairy farms but these gradually disappeared as the farms were sold and redeveloped. Residential development in the area, the topography, and the already growing usage of the name before 1976, all contributed to the name's official assignation.

For visitor information contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre.

Emu Plains is located on the western side of the Nepean River, at the foot of the Blue Mountains.

The suburb of Leonay is the southern boundary, with Emu Heights the western boundary. Along with the suburb of Penrith, Emu Plains is one of the oldest districts in the Penrith Local Government Area.

It is situated in pleasant and peaceful surroundings enriched with the colour of jacaranda trees and autumn tones. Emu Plains has many historic buildings and sites to visit. Situated just five minutes drive from Penrith, Emu Plains is ideally located to all amenities.

Emu Plains is located on the west side of the Nepean River extending to the foot of the Blue Mountains. Part of this name (i.e. "Emu") is thought to have originated with the sighting of emus there when the country was first explored by Europeans in the late 1700's. A survey map of 26th August 1790 has the annotation "saw three cassowaries" marked near the ford. Early explorers often confused emu with cassowary. The locality was first known as "Emu Island" - the name thought to have originated with Captain Watkin Tench (1758?-1833), who first explored the region.

In Government Orders of 16 July 1814, Governor Macquarie referred to "Emu Plains (hitherto erroneously called Emu Island)", which officially heralded the area's change of name. And again in October 1814, George Suttor in his correspondence with Sir Joseph Banks, mentioned that the name Emu Plains had recently been changed from Emu Island. Up to this date the area had obviously been thought of as an island. The reason for this can possibly be explained by a contemporary observer, Barron Field (1786-1846), Judge of the Supreme Court of New South Wales. Field noted that Emu Plains had been called "Emu Island" because the plains had, at times, been turned into an island by the "washing of the mountains when the Nepean ......flooded". Another more recent explanation (offered by the late local historian and resident Arthur W. Street) claims that the name Emu Island originated because the Nepean River was divided near Emu Ford, thus forming an island. The island, Mr. Street claims, has slowly disappeared through constant excavation of gravel for building purposes. A further resolution of the confusion is detailed in the book Emu Plains by Joan Steege, where she explores all the divergent theories regarding its naming.

Governor Macquarie established a government farm at Emu Plains in 1819. Here convicts cleared the land and grew wheat, maize, tobacco and other crops for thirteen years. Land was not available for private settlement until the early 1830's, when a town named Emu was surveyed.

On 25 October, 1963, the Emu Plains area was transferred from the Blue Mountains City Council to Penrith City Council.

Erskine Park, New South Wales, is located on the eastern fringe of the Penrith Local Government Area. The eastern boundary is Ropes Creek to the south where the southern boundary is located along the Sydney Water Supply Pipeline.

The suburb's western border runs along Mamre Road and the Erskine Park Road till the M4 Motorway and up to Ropes Creek. A new housing development during the 1990s has greatly changed this suburb. Its history has been largely rural with some extractive industries in recent years.

Erskine Park was the name of a 3,000 acre grant made in 1818 to James Erskine (1765-1825). The grant covered an area east of the present Mamre Road to Rope's Creek taking in what is now the suburbs of St. Clair and Erskine Park. James Erskine was born in 1765 in Ireland and was a career soldier who fought in the West Indies, Ireland and the Peninsular Campaigns. He arrived with his regiment in Sydney on the "Matilda" in August 1817. He was sworn in as Lieutenant-Governor on September 12, 1817. In recent times (1980-81), there were controversial moves within the community to change the name of this historic suburb to St. Clair - a name having no historical connection with the area. The matter was finally resolved in the latter half of 1981, when the Geographical Names Board created two separate suburbs, Erskine Park and St. Clair.

Galston is located approximately 40 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Hornsby.

A pleasant semi-rural suburb at the northern edge of Sydney, Galston was originally known as Upper Dural. In 1886, Alex Hutchinson suggested that the small hamlet, about 3 kilometres north of Dural, should have a change of name to give it an identity of its own. He named it Galston, after a Scottish town near Kilmamock, an area famous for its coal output.

Galston has successfully retained its serene, peaceful atmosphere. It offers boutique galleries and bazaars, nurseries with garden cafes and a multitude of bushwalks through the Galston Gorge. It is also home to the Galston Country Music Festival in September each year, which attracts thousands of people from around Australia.

Towns surrounding Galston include: Arcadia, Dural, Hornsby Heights and Middle Dural.

Replenish your soul with alternative food and therapies.

Glebe is a popular residential area renowned for its New Age vibe. It’s architecturally interesting with its charming mix of workers’ cottages and grand 19th century abodes inhabited by a colourful mix of residents including artists, old time locals and students of Sydney University.

The area is renowned for its array of alternative therapy outlets and quality bookshops and has a good selection of restaurants and cafes. Whilst there is an admirable range of upmarket dining options, the wholesome menus of the cheerful cafés more accurately reflect the essence of the Glebe experience. The Saturday market provides an outlet for local craftspeople to sell their work as well as a mix of bric a brac, clothes and New Age essentials.

Key Experiences:
Enjoy lunch at one Glebe’s cafes specialising in organic and wholesome gourmet delights.
Visit an onsite herbalist or enjoy a massage or pamper session at a local holistic health centre.
Wander along tree lined Glebe Point Road and visit the famous Gleebooks or the numerous health food and alternative health shops.
Explore the back lanes and discover historical hidden treasures such as Toxteth Estate and Lyndhurst.
Take a stroll along the water’s edge or enjoy a picnic in nearby Bicentenary Park.

Glenhaven is located approximately 35 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

Glenhaven was originally known as Sandhurst, however, this caused some confusion with mail, as there was a suburb in Melbourne with the same name. A public meeting was held in 1894 to have the name changed to reflect its valley location. As the upper portion of the valley was known as "The Glen" and the lower portion as "The Haven", the area was to become known as Glenhaven.

Visitors to Glenhaven are offered excellent views of The Hills looking toward the Blue Mountains. The beautiful surrounds offer a variety of recreational and sporting opportunities.

Towns surrounding Glenhaven include: Annangrove, Castle Hill, Dural, Kellyville and Kenthurst.

Glenmore Park, New South Wales Australia, is located south of Jamisontown and South Penrith with its boundary being the M4 Motorway.

The suburbs of Regentville and Mulgoa are located to its west and south while Orchard Hills runs along its eastern boundary with the Northern Road as its dividing line. Glenmore Park is one of Penrith City's largest and most rapidly developing housing estate. Its development has been carefully planned to cater for the social, economic and recreational needs of its residents.

This estate is a highly sought-after place to live - especially for its modern facilities and closeness to the Penrith CBD and the M4 Motorway.

Glenorie is located approximately 40 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

Glenorie was originally known as North Dural. In April 1894 local residents offered the Colony's Postmaster General two names: Hazeldene and Glenorie. The name Glenorie was accepted because it had the support of the local progress association. Glenorie was named after a town in Scotland.

The town of Glenorie has a rural flavour though it is close enough to the major suburbs of Castle Hill and Dural to offer all the necessary services. Activities for visitors include: bushwalking, scenic drives, parklands and tennis.

Towns surrounding Glenorie include: Maraylya and Middle Dural.

Capturing the colour and excitement of Asian streetlife, Chinatown and Haymarket offer an exciting mix of restaurants, food halls, noodle bars and quirky gift shops. Bargain-shops and Asian supermarkets also bring many visitors to the area, especially on weekends.

Haymarket has become a late-night entertainment precinct, with bars, theatres and cinemas pulsating into the night. The lively Spanish Quarter, an 80 metre stretch of pizzaz, is close by.

The home of the 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Sydney Olympic Park at Homebush Bay continues to offer a world-class destination in Sydney’s geographic heart. You can join one of the popular tours of venues including ANZ Stadium, an Olympics focus point and now host to premier sporting events. Or go swimming at Sydney Aquatic Centre where you can compete with family and friends in the same pool used by champion record breakers. The Sydney International Tennis Centre, too, is a world-class venue, used not only for state, national and international tournaments, but also for training and hire by the public.

As well as being Sydney’s major sporting venue there are an ever-increasing range of attractions, activities and cuisine and entertainment options. For example with more than seventy retailers you can find bargains galore at the nearby Direct Factory Outlet (DFO).

Jamisontown, New South Wales, Australia is located on the eastern side of the Nepean River, bounded on the south by the M4 Motorway, and the north by Jamison Road. York Road is the eastern boundary. Jamisontown is a diverse and changing suburb. A blend of residential, industrial and large retail outlets provide an atmosphere of a bustling and busy suburb of the Penrith Local Government area.

The upgraded and increasingly busy Mulgoa Road cuts through this suburb and takes travellers off the M4 Motorway to the Nepean River, Penrith Lakes Scheme, Penrith Panthers, Penrith Plaza and the city's Central Business District. Residents of Jamisontown are perfectly located to take full advantage of the facilities in their suburb and those close by.

Kellyville is located approximately 35 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

Kellyville was originally known as ‘There and Nowhere’, followed by ‘Irish Town’, as a large number of Irish people lived in the district. Convict Hugh Kelly arrived in May 1803, married his older widowed mistress Mary Evans and established a licensed inn ‘The Half Way House’ that became ‘The Bird in the Hand’, on the corner of Wrights and Windsor Roads. After Kelly's death in 1884, John Fitzgerald Burns, James Green and George Withers purchased portions of several early land grants, which were subdivided into farmlets as part of the ‘Kellyville Estate’, thereby giving the suburb its name.

Kellyville is a major growth area in The Hills. Further development in the area following the release of new land is expected to contribute to an increase in population for The Hills by 40,000 in the next 15-20 years. The new town development will include an extensive shopping precinct, restaurants, a mini-university campus and growers market.

Towns surrounding Kellyville include: Annangrove, Baulkham Hills, Bella Vista, Glenhaven and Rouse Hill.

Kenthurst is located approximately 40 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

Kenthurst was originally known as Little Dural. Charles Gibb aroused interest to change the name to Kent Forest around 1886 (ironically much of the ‘forest’ had been felled in the mid 1800’s for timber), but the colonial government settled on Kenthurst. The name is derived from the English County of Kent and 'hurst', a woody hillock.

Kenthurst is now a semi-suburban town known for its boutique galleries, giftware shops and nursery cafes.

Towns surrounding Kenthurst include: Annangrove, Dural, Maraylya and Middle Dural.

Vibrant and diverse entertainment all day, every day

Kings Cross, the most densely populated square kilometre in Australia, buzzes with nightclubs, live music, adult entertainment and more than two hundred of the city's finest restaurants, bars and cafes. Australia's best known entertainment district never sleeps and holds appeal for late night revellers, jet-lagged travellers and the energetic in-crowd with bars that attract the stars, and restaurants by signature chefs such as Neil Perry and Luke Mangan. Away from the bright lights, the Cross boasts some fine examples of colonial and art deco architecture such as Elizabeth Bay House and Tusculum House.

Nearby Woolloomooloo offers a multitude of waterfront al fresco dining experiences along the restored Woolloomooloo Wharf providing stunning views of the city skyline and harbour surrounds. Inside is the ultra modern five star hotel, W Sydney and the stylish Water Bar, tended by master cocktail makers. Pamper yourself at Spa Chakra, a premier day spa located inside W Sydney. Woolloomooloo is also home to Harry’s Café de Wheels. Busy til the early hours serving the post-party crowd, Harry’s is more than a pie shop, it’s an institution not to be missed.

Key Experiences
Stop by El Alamein or “dandelion fountain” in Fitzroy Gardens, a favourite meeting place for locals and travellers alike.
Take a walking tour of the Australian Navy’s historic Garden Island.
Pamper yourself with a Korean-style body scrub perfect for relieving stress and improving well-being at the Ginseng Bathhouse located within the Crest Hotel, Kings Cross.
Dance all night at the popular clubs of the Soho Bar and Sugar Reef, or relax in the hip environs of the Peppermint Lounge, Hugo’ s Lounge, or Lotus.
Breakfast with the rich and famous at any one of the numerous coffee shops lining Challis Avenue, Macleay and Victoria Streets and Darlinghurst Road.

Kingswood is located on the eastern approach to Penrith on the Great Western Highway. It is bounded on its west by Parker Street, north by Richmond Road and the east by the University of Western Sydney. Caddens Road is its southern boundary.

Kingswood is one of the oldest suburbs within the Penrith Local Government Area. It is an academically rich suburb with both a university, a TAFE, along with private and public schools within its boundaries. The Kingswood State Archives and the Penrith City Council Archives are a haven for researchers in Western Sydney. Nepean District Hospital, located in Kingswood, is a major focal point for many residents in the Penrith LGA.

Kingswood Park, New South Wales Australia, is located north of the Western Railway Line and the suburb of Penrith, to the west of Cambridge Park and to the south of Cranebrook.

The Nepean Rugby Union Oval offers a green belt on its western boundary. Kingswood Park is an extremely hilly suburb, which provides commanding and scenic views of Penrith and the Blue Mountains. It is one of the smallest suburbs in size within the City. It is a residential area, providing easy access to the Penrith CBD.

Kurrajong is a place of beauty and refuge. In Australia's indigenous people’s language, Kurrajong means 'shade tree'. In early times, the Kurrajong tree seeds were roasted as a coffee substitute. Rolling green hills, panoramic views and country hospitality nestle amidst the unique call of the bell birds.

History lovers will appreciate the old buildings and churches, collectors will be lost in the antique shops, there is something for everyone.

A lovely small settlement in the Hawkesbury with some of these places backing on to Wollemi National Park. Staying in the area in one of the many beautiful accommodation places, you are close by to Kurrajong Village and North Richmond, or you may wish to travel back down the Putty Road to Wilberforce.

La Perouse is an historical haven that blends Aboriginal, French and Colonial traditions. Named after the navigator Jean-Francois de Galaup de La Perouse, the first Frenchman to arrive in Australia in 1788, this treasure is resplendent with beaches, bays and bushland. La Perouse’s museum contains original maps, antique scientific instruments and intriguing relics recovered from the wrecks of La Perouse’s frigates Boussole and Astrolabe. The museum is also the starting point of a walking trail ending at Endeavour Lighthouse where you’re rewarded with spectacular views across the bay to the site of Captain Cook’s landing place.

Worth exploring and accessible via a bridge from La Perouse is the tiny Bare Island, the site of a fort completed in 1885 to strengthen Sydney’s coastal defence. On weekends there are Aboriginal artefacts, all of which are for sale, on display at the park. Just to the north is tranquil Yarra Bay, a great spot from which to view sailing boats racing across Botany Bay.

Lake Parramatta Reserve is a 73 hectare bushland and parkland reserve located within two kilometres of the Parramatta Central Business District. It is the largest bushland remnant surviving in the Parramatta Local Government Area. It is also recognised as one of the most significant and beautiful bushland remnants in Western Sydney.

The orchards of Lakesland grow a wide range of stone fruit, including persimmons, a popular export product to Asia. The district is most famous for producing the first cherries to reach the Sydney markets each year. The property, known today as Mowbray Park, was purchased in 1876 by William Barker who successfully claimed the title Baron Mowbray.

The traditional Italian quarter

If you are a lover of good pasta, good coffee and gelato you can't go past Leichhardt, a suburb infused by years of strong Italian influence. Leichhardt's main road is Norton Street, which offers a range of traditional Italian shops, cafes and restaurants. The best olive oils, balsamic vinegars, olives, salamis, cheeses and breads can be found at Norton Street Grocer and is a must for those in search of authentic Italian fare.

Leichhardt's streets are filled with an infectious energy, never more so than whenever the Italian soccer team are playing. The centre of Leichhardt's focus is on the recently developed Italian Forum - a huge plaza surrounded by a plethora of shops selling everything from designer labels to Italian homewares and fresh pasta. Descend the Forum's own version of Rome's Spanish Steps, a popular meeting place, and browse the menus of the outdoor cafes and restaurants most of which stay open late. Leichhardt's been credited with pioneering the concept of al fresco dining, now a standard in cafes and restaurants all over Sydney.


Leichardt Highlights
Watch the locals whilst enjoying an Italian pastry or the finest hand-blended roasted coffees.
Fine dine at one of the multi-award winning restaurants.
Watch a gelato-making demonstration.
Join the late night dining scene at one of the friendly authentic Italian restaurants that line Norton Street and the Italian Forum.
Enjoy an arthouse movie at the Palace Norton Street Cinema.

Leonay is located on the western side of the Nepean River, at the foot of the Blue Mountains.

This suburb is bounded by the M4 Motorway, the western railway line, and the Nepean River. Once the vineyard of Leo Buring, Leonay is now a residential suburb nestled on the Blue Mountains Escarpment. The landscape rises sharply from the river which has fostered the development of individually designed homes.

A main feature of Leonay is the golf course which meanders through the suburb. The shrill sound of bellbirds echoes over this secluded suburb to create a harmony of modern living and nature.

Llandilo is located in the northern part of the the City of Penrith. Its boundaries are South Creek on its eastern boundary, Berkshire Park is its northern neighbour and Cranebrook on its western border.

The extensive unoccupied ADI (Australian Defence Industries) site land runs along its southern boundary line. Llandilo is a rural suburb containing many small farms of one to two acres. Most occupiers of these farmlets look after animals of many descriptions. The raising of horses including arabians is also a feature of this suburb.

Londonderry, New South Wales Australia, is located in the northernmost part of the City of Penrith with the Driftway forming the boundary with the Hawkesbury City Council area. On its eastern side the Northern Road divides Londonderry from Berkshire Park while suburbs Cranebrook and Agnes Banks are its boundaries on its southern and western sides.

Londonderry is a rural area with much of it still being crown land. Because of its closeness to Richmond and distance from Penrith, the suburb has always had stronger links with Richmond than with Penrith. Londonderry village in the centre of the suburb is a vital community connection point for local residents in the area. With its spacious environment this suburb hosts several state government agencies, some of national and international importance.

For visitor information on Londonderry please contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre:
www.penrithvalley.com.au
1300 736 836

Lower Portland is located approximately 80 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

Lower Portland was named after William Henry Cavendish Bentinck, 3rd Duke of Portland, and Prime Minister of Great Britain in 1783, and 1807- 1809. The name was first used in 1805, and almost certainly seems associated with the story that a rock on the plateau above the headland resembled the Duke of Portland (He was no doubt popular with the ladies!). Lower Portland was the area settled downstream from Portland Head.

Lower Portland is a peaceful hamlet nested at the junction of the Colo and Hawkesbury rivers. A place to discover, surrounded by history, majestic in nature, captivating and romantic and a water skiings delight. The lower Portland Ferry is one of only four vehicular ferries operating in the Hawkesbury. The River Road drive is a must for a relaxing day out.

Lower Portland Ferry operates 24 hours 7days a week. Closed 1st Wednesday of each month 9:00am-11:00am.

Towns surrounding Lower Portland include: Cliftonville and Sackville North.

Luddenham is located in the most southern corner of the City of Penrith. It is a sparsely populated rural district. The pretty little village of Luddenham is split between two local government areas, Penrith and Liverpool.

Luddenham has a picturesque rural setting combining a rural lifestyle with the convenience of major roads connecting Penrith, Liverpool and Camden.

Bundeena and Maianbar are two unique idyllic villages on the southern shores of the beautiful Port Hacking. They are surrounded on the other three sides by the Royal National Park.

The village of Maianbar is seperated from Bundeena by a few klms of the Royal National Park and the Basin a large bay off the Port Hacking river. It can be reached by a walking trail though Bonnie Vale or by road. Maianbar is a lot smaller than Bundeena, with most houses either being waterfront or having fantastic water views. Some houses can only be reached by rough bush tracks. Maianbar has a new local shop, soon to be opened restaurant (the old local shop was destroyed by fire) and a community Hall. Maianbar is a truly unique area.

Holiday and overnight accommodation is limited in both Bundeena and Maianbar. There are no hotels or motels. There is camping at Bonnie Vale, there are cabins and camping at the Bundeena Caravan Park in Scarborough Street and a number of excellent Bed and Breakfast rooms have been established.

Maldon is a scenic area with the main southern railway winding its way to Picton and beyond and is also home to the Maldon Cement Works which creates a fairy land of lights at night. Maldon is an area for the adventurous, with the kart track, and is also home to the annual motorcross "Thumper Nats".

A visit to Manly by ferry provides you with the quintessential Sydney experience. The thirty-minute cruise across Sydney Harbour puts you in a relaxed mood to enjoy this easy-going and cosmopolitan suburb. With the famous surf beach on the Pacific Ocean side and a serene inner harbour beach on the other, Manly has the best of both waterfront worlds and is a popular place to swim, windsurf, parasail, snorkel, kayak, surf and scuba dive. The palm-tree lined Corso leads you onto the promenade, where you can take a bike ride or roller-blade along the front or relax and enjoy the sea breeze in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

Manly’s Sydney Harbour National Park makes for ideal bushwalking with numerous routes linking the beaches with the national park. As well as inviting you to enjoy its natural wonders Manly also offers a tempting year-round calendar of diverse and appealing events.

Maraylya is located approximately 50 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

This locality, east of Windsor, was originally known as Forrester after an early landholder Robert Forrester who was granted 30 acres at ‘Mulgrave Place’ in 1794. In the 1920s the local Progress Association changed the name to Maraylya, which is presumed to be an Aboriginal name, but the meaning is unknown.

Cattai Creek runs through this rural area leading to Cattai National Park.

Towns surrounding Maraylya include: Cattai, Glenorie, Nelson and Pitt Town.

Maroota is located approximately 65 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

According to Ruby Ramm in her recollections "Life at Lansdale", Maroota is an Aboriginal name meaning "much water". It was first used to address the area in 1827. There are a number of springs in the area, the largest of which was estimated in 1970 to make 90 million gallons of clear water each year. In recent times the area has become well known for the extensive sand mining operations taking place. The sand extracted from Maroota supplies much of the sand required for Sydney’s growing population.

A large portion of State Forest was recently handed back to members of the local Darug people.

Towns surrounding Maroota include: Leets Vale, Lower Portland, South Maroota and Wisemans Ferry.

South Maroota is located approximately 65 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The first European settler in the South Maroota area was Charles Williams, one of the first convicts to be released and granted land in the late 1700’s. In a tragic story, his wife and son died in a boating accident on the Hawkesbury River, leaving him depressed and unable to maintain his once profitable farm. As a consequence he was left in destitution.

Towns surrounding South Maroota include: Cattai and Maroota.

The village of Menangle grew to service the operations of Camden Park Estate. The opening of the railway in 1863 enabled overnight milk deliveries to the Sydney Market, beating the summer heat in the days before refrigeration. Call into The Store which was built about 1904 and is still a country store selling everything from antiques to groceries and saddlery to ice creams. The railway bridge over the Nepean River is the oldest in use today.

Middle Dural is located approximately 45 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The first European settler in the area of Middle Dural was Thomas Best, who began farming in 1819. When a road was built through the farm in 1828 Thomas applied for a license to build and operate a ‘halfway house’, which is know the location for the Mother India restaurant.

The area has many roadside stalls selling the freshest of fruits, vegetables and flowers direct from the farmer.

Towns surrounding Middle Dural include: Arcadia, Dural, Glenorie and Kenthurst.

Green oasis of Sydney's entertainment capitol

Home to Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG, Sydney Football Stadiuym (SFS), Entertainment Quarter and Centennial Parklands, Moore Park offers its visitors recreation options galore. Cricket legends are born at the SCG, which doubles as a venue for Australian Football. Neighbouring SFS is a rugby fan’s heaven, and hosts major league and union games. Both are considered among Australia’s best venues.

Great entertainment, shopping and dining is on offer at the Entertainment Quarter. Enjoy late night shopping at the huge range of outlets on Bent Street, grab a casual bite then catch a movie at a state-of-the-art cinema. Entertainment Quarter is also home to the historic Hordern Pavilion and Royal Hall of Industries, both of which host an array of events and exhibitions. Sporting events and cultural activities regularly occur in the spectacular natural setting of the nearby Centennial Parklands, whose wide-open spaces are a hit with city-weary Sydneysiders. In fact, the spacious surrounds of the whole of Moore Park provide visitors with a welcome respite from the bustle of the neighbouring CBD.

Moore Park Highlights
Join the SCG Tour Experience and get lambasted by a "coach" in the dressing rooms of Aussie Stadium.
Feel the thrill of the competitive arena by joining diehard fans at a sports game.
Pick up the freshest produce around the Entertainment Quarter ' Farmers' Market held every Wednesday, or visit the general weekend markets.
Explore Centennial Park atop rollerblades, on horseback or by bicycle.
Join a park ranger tour by spotlight in Centennial Parklands.
Bring a rug and enjoy a movie under the stars at Centennial Park's Moonlight Cinema (December to February).

Positioned on the harbour and blessed with several pocket-sized harbour beaches, Mosman is one of Sydney’s most sophisticated shopping areas. You will find designer boutiques, antiques shops and hip cafés strung out along Military Road, as well as the renowned Taronga Zoo. For nature lovers, Mosman offers spectacular bushwalks through Bradley and Middle Heads, part of the Sydney Harbour National Park.

On Mosman’s eastern side is Balmoral Beach, with its winding promenade walk, where locals keep in touch while exercising themselves, their children and their dogs. There’s a strip of cafés and restaurants, enclosed harbour baths and wonderful picnic spots.

Positioned on the harbour and blessed with several pocket-sized harbour beaches, Mosman is one of Sydney’s most sophisticated shopping areas. You will find designer boutiques, antiques shops and hip cafés strung out along Military Road, as well as the renowned Taronga Zoo. For nature lovers, Mosman offers spectacular bushwalks through Bradley and Middle Heads, part of the Sydney Harbour National Park.

On Mosman’s eastern side is Balmoral Beach, with its winding promenade walk, where locals keep in touch while exercising themselves, their children and their dogs. There’s a strip of cafés and restaurants, enclosed harbour baths and wonderful picnic spots.

Situated 15kms south from Penrith along Mulgoa Road this area was among the first outside Sydney to be settled by Europeans but it had been home to the Aboriginal Dharug tribe for thousands of years prior to settlement.

Amongst the first European settlers were the Cox family, known for building the first road across the Blue Mountains. The historic homes
'Winbourne', 'Fernhill', 'Glenmore' and 'Fairlight'. Please note: These establishments are privately owned and public viewing is seldom allowed.

Highlights of the valley are:
* The Rock Lookout
* Rileys Mountain lookout (40 mins loop walk from the Rock lookout)
* The Peppercorn Cafe
* Settlers Receptions and Functions
* Li'l Treasures Homewares Gifts and Antiques
* Mt Schoenstatt Shrine (replica of a German Chapel)
* St Thomas Church and pioneer cemetery consecrated in 1838
* Mulgoa school building built 1883
* Glenmore Heritage Valley Country Club
* a slab cottage built 1870
* Gate to 'Regentville', destroyed by bushfire in 1864
* 'Glenleigh' built in 1887
* 'Glenmore' built 1825
* 'Fernhill' built in 1842
* St James Church and cemetery
* Winbourne - original home of William Cox and now a conference centre run by the Christian Brothers

For visitor information on Mulgoa please contact the Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre:
www.penrithvalley.com.au
1300 736 836

Nattai is a small village on the way to Burragorang Lookout and is featured in the Scenic Drives of Wollondilly brochure. Nattai is a romantic landscape of massive sandstone escarpments, such as Grant Head and Golden Moon Bluff. Yet in spite of the towering cliffs, the Nattai is one of the most accessible wilderness areas in New South Wales. Its recreation value is greatly enhanced by its accessibility and proximity to Sydney.

Nelson is located approximately 45 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

Nelson is named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson, the hero of the Battle of Trafalgar. Governor William Bligh served under his command at the Battle of Copenhagen (1801) and received a land grant in this area, which he named 'Copenhagen Farm' in honour of the battle.

Nelson has a large number of rural farms and equestrian enthusiasts.

Towns surrounding Nelson include: Annangrove, Box Hill, Maraylya and Rouse Hill.

North Parramatta is located approximately 20 kilometres west of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The community of North Parramatta grew around the building of Lake Parramatta, a dam offering an alternative to the Marsden Street weir. The Marsden Street weir provided water of poor quality due to the shale/clay geology of the Toongabbie Creek catchment. In contrast, Lake Parramatta offered a clean and reliable water supply. James Pye, a local orchardist and owner of the ‘Lamb and Lark’ Inn at Baulkham Hills, offered the land at nominal cost so that the dam could be built. The dam was finished in 1856 under the supervision of “Percy” Simpson for a total cost of $17,000 pounds. The sandstone used for the dam was quarried locally at North Rocks.

This residential suburb also plays host to the Lake Parramatta Reserve offering a tranquil retreat from city life.

Towns surrounding North Parramatta include: Baulkham Hills, North Parramatta, North Rocks, Parramatta and Westmead.

Website: www.sydneyhills.com.au

Just west of Richmond and over the Hawkesbury River is the township of North Richmond, where you can capture some of the unspoilt landscapes as you drive around. Richmond has a shopping centre, the river, parks, churches, beautiful old homes and the rolling hills to lead you around to other villages of the Hawkesbury.

Nearby to North Richmond you will find secluded accommodation, everything from cabins to self-contained cottages, fruit stalls, horse riding, and golf courses.

North Rocks is located approximately 25 kilometres northwest of the Sydney CBD in the Shire of Baulkham Hills.

The area of North Rocks was originally named Jerusalem Rocks, both names being derived from a massive sandstone outcrop in the region. The rock outcrop, which was north of Parramatta, was used to build Parramatta Gaol and the wall for the Lake Parramatta dam. Settlers originally used the area for farming and fruit growing, of which remnants still remain today.

North Rocks has a major shopping centre, many restaurants and weekly markets. The Excelsior Bushland Reserve, reputedly a hideaway for the bushranger Bold Jack Donahue in the 1800’s, can also be found in this area.

Towns surrounding North Rocks include: Baulkham Hills, Carlingford, Castle Hill, North Parramatta, Northmead and Oatlands.

North of the city of Sydney, the beautiful stretch of coast from Manly to Palm Beach has a relaxed beachside ambience and lots of opportunities for recreation. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and Pittwater on the other, the peninsula covers about 18 km of open coastline with great seaside dining, surf beaches, waterways and boatsheds. On the other side of Pittwater is Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, which has pockets of rainforest with a river, creeks, waterfalls and Aboriginal rock art.

Oakdale is both a fruit growing and coal mining town. The service station and general store between Oakdale and Belimbla Park features an unusual dome roof.

The Burragorang Driving Tour Brochure highlights historic buildings and drives through Nattai, Oakdale, The Oaks, Belimbla Park and surrounds. The brochure is free and available from the Wollondilly Visitor Information Centre.

Orangeville is a rural town of New South Wales with pockets of natural bushland on the Silverdale Road between The Oaks and Silverdale. Visitors can take in the scenery of Orangeville and surrounds when taking the Warragamba Waters Scenic Drive, a map for this is available from the Wollondilly Visitor Information Centre.

Orchard Hills, New South Wales, is located in the centre of the City of Penrith. Sydney Water's supply pipeline is its southern boundary line, while the suburbs of St Clair and Erskine Park border the suburb to the east. Kingswood and Claremont Meadows are northern neighbours and Glenmore Park, South Penrith and the rural areas of Wallacia and Mulgoa comprise the western boundary.

Orchard Hills has a predominately rural character with undulating hills and scenic vistas. Its landscape is mainly overlaid with orchards and grapevines with some housing development in recent years. This suburb epitomises the City of Penrith's vision of a region with a harmony of urban and rural qualities.

To discover the extent of Sydney's true diversity, visit the areas in and around the National Parks encircling the city's outskirts. A trip out of town gives you the freedom to explore the natural settings of rural areas many of which are rich in colonial history. For a serene getaway easily accessible from the inner city try Hawkesbury Gateway, Hawkesbury Valley, Penrith or Macarthur Country.

Penrith, at the foot of the Blue Mountains, specialises in outdoor adventure amongst a scenic setting. Nature can also be enjoyed up close at the Hawkesbury Gateway where you can try water-skiing or canyoning. Travel to Macarthur Country to stand amongst the marvellous sandstone scenery of Georges River Nature Reserve.

Macarthur Country is renowned for being the birthplace of Australia's wool, wine and wheat industries and is home to many historic farmsteads. Uncover more history at the Hawkesbury Gateway, the site of Australia's first rebellion in 1804. Discover Penrith's rich past via a self-drive tour of the area's historic houses and locations.

Locals from Outer Sydney extend a friendly welcome to visitors making it easy for you to enjoy the warm and relaxed country atmosphere. Visit farms in the Hawkesbury Valley to sample the area's array of seasonal produce including fresh fruits and cheeses. Quality antiques can be found in nearby Windsor and adjacent hamlets. The area is also full of craft shops and boutique galleries where you can spend time talking to the artist at work.

With so much on offer within such easy reach an out of town exploration deserves to be a part of your Sydney experience.

Oxley Park, is located on the easternmost side of the Penrith Local Government Area. Its boundary is Ropes Creek, the Great Western Highway, Sydney Street and the western railway line.

The suburb is mainly residential, featuring sporting fields, St Marys Cemetery (the second largest cemetery in the Penrith Local Government Area) and a primary school. With convenient access to both the Great Western Highway and the M4 Motorway, Oxley Park residents are easily able to travel to work and to leisure activities. Oxley Park is one of the older established suburbs with older homes on large blocks of land.

Palm Beach has become recognisable around the world as Summer Bay from the Australian TV soap Home and Away.

Palm Beach is the exclusive, high-end of Sydney's long stretch of the northern beaches; is everything you'd expect from the insular-peninsula amid the playground of the nation's rich and famous. Palm Beach still
retains traces of its early character; although mansions dominate the southern corner.

Most of the beach area, apart from the small protected areas at either end, it is permanently exposed to the elements. Barrenjoey Head looms over North Palm Beach, which is unpatrolled at its furthest tip. This
section of the beach is usually where you find the surfers, joggers and hikers on the Barrenjoey Lighthouse bushwalk.

The North Palm surf club, is where you will find a kiosk, car park and other facilities are located at roughly in the middle of the beach. This is the ideal place to sit and enjoy the broad ocean view.

The southern end of Palm Beach is a more protected environment for swimming than the waves further north. Also there is a 35-metre ocean pool which sits on the rocks at the end of the beach, deep enough for
laps but with a shallow end that is ideal for kids. It is well lit at night and has its own shower and toilet.

Activities: Surfing, ball games, bushwalking, walking up sandhills
Features : Ocean pool, surf, view, toilets & showers

Penrith Valley is packed full of great activities and events to make your stay enjoyable and unique. Try whitewater rafting, horse riding, bushwalking, cycling, rollerblading, or take a picnic to the parks by the beautiful Nepean River.

If retail therapy is what you’re after, spend some time exploring the diverse range of markets regularly held in the area and pick yourself up a bargain, or check out Penrith Plaza, offering all your favourite stores under one roof. For a cultural fix, visit the many unique museums and art galleries located in the region, or follow the food and wine trail.

When the sun goes down Penrith Valley comes alive and whether you choose to check out the local nightclubs, professional theatre, live entertainment, woolshed dances or cinemas, there is something on offer to suit all ages and tastes.

No matter how you choose to spend your visit in Penrith Valley, you will be pleased to find a diverse range of tasty dining options guaranteed to keep your batteries charged. The sheer range of international fare available means you can choose from a number of exciting flavours, including Thai and Italian, or enjoy all you can eat smorgasbords, buffets or a la carte cuisine.

In this district the white settlers first recorded sightings of the koala, lyrebird and wombat. Ex convict, John Wilson, noted the three animals in his diary describing the lyrebird as a pheasant, hence the name Pheasants Nest, and recorded the koala as being known to the aboriginal people as Cullawine.

The administrative centre of Wollondilly Shire is Picton, which is reached, in an easy 90-minute drive from Sydney or by train. Originally known as Stonequarry, the first land grant was to Major Henry Colden Antill. His son built Jarvisfield, which, today, provides the clubhouse for the Antill Park Golf Club. Picton thrives on it’s past with many historic buildings in the town and surrounding areas. Its railway heritage is particularly significant and is symbolised by a unique and splendid railway viaduct.

The Picton Walking Tour brochure highlighting the towns and historic building is available from the Wollondilly Visitor Information Centre.

Pitt Town is one of the five Macquarie Towns. Attractions in Pitt Town include historic buildings, market gardens and turf farms, waterskiing and rural setting on Hawkesbury River.