Northern Rivers Guides Attractions Events in New South Wales

Away from the coast, the Shire's lush hinterland is punctuated by pioneer settlements like Teven, Tintenbar and Knockrow, where you can enjoy a round of golf, savour the burgeoning regional cuisine or sample the delights of the surrounding coffee, macadamia, peanut, avocado, stone fruit and banana plantations. The village of Alstonville is an Aladdin's cave for curio hunters and culture buffs with its historic buildings, classic Australian architecture, art gallery and intimate cafe's and tea-houses. Among the surrounding hills are secluded waterfalls, lush, sub-tropical parks and gardens and, at Victoria Park Nature Reserve, one of the last remnants of the "Big Scrub" - a vast rainforest which once blanketed the region.

The charming seaside village of Angourie is at the northern tip of Yuraygir National Park, which has one of the most spectacular coastal walks in the state. Spectacular views of the coastline, a glorious natural setting and a laid-back, relaxed lifestyle make Angourie a very desirable destination.

You can soak up all this beauty when you stay at one of the luxury holiday units, grab a delicious meal or coffee from the local café/store or take some time to browse through the local art and craft boutique shop.

In the 1960s, Angourie became famous as one of the best point-breaks in Australia and is often visited by the world’s best surfers.

Angourie is also renowned for its fresh water Blue and Green Pools, originally a rock quarry that filled with water when a spring was disturbed. The pools are very deep and are a very popular swimming spot.

This peaceful village is a great place to go for a scenic drive. Perhaps pack a picnic and enjoy it on the riverbank looking over towards the mighty hills of Maclean. The local residents of Ashby hold a market on the third Sunday of the month, which is a great day out for the family to enjoy the local produce and have a nice Barbeque breakfast or lunch.

Ashby is a growing town, with new subdivisions and city people looking for their own quiet piece of the Clarence Valley.

The town of Ballina, centred on an island at the mouth of the Richmond River, is surrounded by 32 kilometres of white, sandy beaches and seemingly endless, crystal waterways - it's a natural fun park for beach lovers, surfers, boaties, anglers and eco-adventurers.

A blend of tranquil seaside hideaway and vibrant holiday resort, Ballina is the commercial and entertainment hub of the shire. The historic thoroughfares of the town centre are lined with stylish cafes and restaurants where you can sample the famous local seafood and, of course, there are plenty of classic country pubs. You can visit museums that showcase Ballina's colourful history, or discover theatres, galleries and expos that are bursting with the creative output of the region's many visual and performing artists. There is an enormous choice holiday fun for the kids and, for the die-hard shopaholic, a mind-boggling array of funky boutiques and designer stores.

Bangalow, south west of Byron Bay, is a nineteenth century streetscape of tall verandah-clad buildings housing an array of shops selling exotic homewares, antiques, books and art. The village also has a variety of cafes and restaurants.

The Bangalow Community Market, held on the fourth Sunday of each month, is a showcase of local produce including clothes, jewellery, skin care products, fresh food, plants and trees, craft and artwork.

Every Saturday morning from 8.00am to 11.00am the Bangalow Farmers Market is set up in the car park behind the Bangalow Hotel. Here you'll find fresh salads, herbs, tomatoes, fruit, vegetables and plants, as well as eggs, beef, bread, coffee, sauces, pickles, oils and jams.

In May, the Billycart Derby enthrals visitors and locals in what has become an annual event. In November, the Bangalow Show takes over the showground and features animals in the ring, cookery competitions, contests and fireworks.

The tiny settlement of Bentley, 23 kilometres north-west of Lismore on the Kyogle Road, has become recognised throughout Australia for its annual art competition. Held in August at the Bentley Hall, the Bentley Art Prize offers an AUD1000.00 first prize for its open section and an AUD1000.00 acquisition prize. Hundreds of artists from New South Wales and Queensland enter and the Aboriginal art section is earning a strong reputation. Bentley was named after Great Bentley in England, the birthplace of Robert Barrington Dawson, who built Bentley Homestead in the late 1870s.

Bexhill (initially the Bald Hill cedar camp) is located nine kilometres north east of Lismore along the Bangalow Road. It was a more important settlement than Lismore in the 1850s. Bexhill is home to the beautiful Open Air Cathedral, a delightful setting for outdoor marriage ceremonies. The local church also boasts an organ quite astounding for such a tiny village. There are occasional organ recitals held here that attract organists from Brisbane and Sydney. In fact, the little Bexhill Church is one of the best-attended in the district - a charming place to celebrate Midnight Mass at Christmas Eve. The little general store on the main street has some of the best homemade Indian curries this side of Mumbai or pick up some quality meat from the renowned butcher shop next door on your way to Rocky Creek Dam for a family barbecue.

Blue Knob is seven kilometres north of Nimbin and a 35 minute scenic drive from Lismore and 40 minutes from Murwillumbah. Drive through Nimbin and out along Blue Knob Road, until you reach the Blue Knob Gallery and Cafe, a great stop for lunch, a snack or a peek at some truly gifted local artists work. You can continue on Blue Knob Road to Kyogle/Murwillumbah Road. Turn left toward Kyogle and continue on the Tweed Range Scenic Drive into the Border Ranges National Park.

The site of one of the earliest settlements on the Richmond River, Broadwater is a quaint, friendly town centred around the sugar mill, the heart of the village. For many months of the year the mill is a vibrant part of the town with the crushing season commencing in early June and continuing until the end of the year.

The town is adjacent to the Broadwater National Park which contains many hectares of flat heath country which, in spring, features vast areas of bright wildflowers including Pink Boronia, Wax flowers, Heath, Wedding Bush and many different species of Banksia.

Broken Head Nature Reserve is 98 hectares in size and encompasses superb headlands with steep rainforest clad slopes sweeping down to secluded beaches. The reserve was dedicated to ensure the preservation of an unusual occurrence of coastal subtropical rainforest called littoral rainforest.

There are two popular walks in the reserve - one from the car park on Seven Mile Beach Road to Kings Beach (about 350 metres) and a second track from the Broken Head Caravan Park called 'Two Sisters Walking Track' which provides unsurpassed views seawards, with a lookout platform and interpretive signage.

Camping and day use facilities are provided at the Broken Head Holiday Park. Camping and the lighting of fires are not permitted in the reserve or on any of the beaches.

Brooms Head is one of those distinctive beachfront villages that are becoming rare. Originally known as Cakora Point, the name Brooms Head was first used in 1870, when a broom thought to have come from the wreck of the schooner 'Eureka', was washed up on the beach. These days many locals affectionately refer to "The Broom" as their favourite holiday destination.

Nestled in the heathland of Yuraygir National Park, Brooms Head has a timeless quality - pristine beaches, friendly locals, away from the hustle and bustle.

Brooms Head has a selection of accommodation to choose from. The Caravan Park with cabins, powered, unpowered sites, which is located right next to the main beach and great holiday units guarantee a relaxing and comfortable stay.

The local bowls club has a restaurant for those wanting to dine out and a general store where you can grab a tasty snack or lunch.

Brunswick Heads is a north coast holiday village situated at the mouth of the Brunswick River, unspoiled but where you can still get a good cup of coffee. Nestled within the breakwater there is a safe peaceful beach while white sandy surf beaches stretch to the south and north. The north bank of the river hosts a protected rainforest and the southern bank provides a harbour and a small marina for fishing boats and small craft. Mount Chincogan (near Mullumbimby) and Mount Warning (near Murwillumbah) provide a spectacular hinterland backdrop to the river that meanders up to the small town of Mullumbimby.

The small community (2,000 residents) of Brunswick Heads has ensured that there is a quality mix of cafes, restaurants, specialty shops, accommodation and a variety of activities to cater for families, couples and the most discerning visitors.

Located on the southern tip of Woodford Island, the largest river island in the Southern Hemisphere and the only one with a Mountain range on it, Brushgrove is just one kilometre off the highway and is a great place for travellers to stop for a quality country meal or an overnight stay at the friendly Local Brushgrove hotel.

If you want a unique holiday exploring Clarence River, the only houseboat operator in the Clarence Valley is located at Brushgrove.

There is a caravan park at Cowper, just south of Brushgrove. It is popular with fishing enthusiasts because of its riverside location.

Byron Bay is a popular beach resort and offers an alternative lifestyle. Renowned for its pristine white sand surfing beaches and surrounding beautiful rainforests, Byron Bay enjoys a relaxed and informal lifestyle. Relax in one of the many beautiful accommodation retreats, indulge in a luxury spa treatment or visit one of the many therapeutic healing centres in Byron. Enjoy the rich variety of adventure sports, boutique shopping, fine dining and live
entertainment. The popular monthly art and craft market is held the first Sunday of every month.

The Cape Byron Lighthouse dominates Australia's most easterly point and is a popular place to visit for its spectacular views. Surrounding towns include Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby (the biggest little town in NSW) and Bangalow (for antique and curios shopping). Byron Bay is a short drive to Ballina/Lennox Head and the Tweed area.

Cabarita Beach is located in the heart of the scenic Tweed Coast and bounded by a Nature Reserve to the north and west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. It boasts many features such as bike tracks, coastal walkways, littoral rainforests, Cudgen Lake, headland barbecue and picnic areas and uninterrupted views over the ocean.

A delightful little coastal town renowned for its excellent surfing beach and varied accommodation, Cabarita is an ideal holiday venue. A small but well equipped shopping centre with takeaway food, restaurants, beachside hotel, supermarket, surf and fishing needs will supply you with the necessities of life whilst you enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the surrounding town. The original name for this pretty little town is Bogangar, an Aboriginal word meaning 'place of many pippies', which refers to the ancient ceremonial shell middens in the area.

Casino is a part of the beautiful Richmond Valley. Its sub-tropical climate is not only tempting to holiday makers but also perfect for its famous regional cuisine. Known as the Beef Capital of the Northern Rivers, Casino attracts enormous crowds each year for the Beef Week celebrations in May...the perfect time to sample the famous cuisine.

Numerous parks and gardens make this a picturesque town, on the banks of the Richmond River and only 45 minutes from the Valley's stunning beaches of Evans Head. Casino's countryside is richly endowed with natural beauty with the Richmond Valley hosting abundant National Parks and a huge variety of birdlife in the wetlands. A Platypus Pool near the town centre offers visitors a rare viewing of the usually shy creatures - just one of the treats in this Valley of Surprises.

Cawongla is an unusual name which combines Campbell, the name of the area's first white settler, and 'Wonga', an Aboriginal word for hill. The village and surrounds out to Wadeville has a population of about 300. The traditional farming community has been boosted by the arrival of new settlers buying into multiple occupancies, and many residents have formed alternative lifestyle communities. The region has become popular with day trippers down from Brisbane travelling along Lions Road, enjoying the scenic views, old farm buildings and wildlife of the region. Cawongla General Store and Gallery Restaurant is a great place for lunch or dinner or just a quick coffee break.

Just south of the Natural Bridge, Chillingham is located on the drive from Murwillumbah to the Numinbah Valley.

Chillingham, the first of the Volcano Villages, lies nestled inside the erosion caldera of the Mt Warning Shield Volcano. Follow Tourist Drive 36 as it winds its way along the tree-lined Rous River. Learn about plants, trees, wildlife and insects, rare or endemic to this area in the Caldera Herbarium.

Take a stroll through the rainforest behind the Banana Cabana which sells great local organic fruit and vegetables or enjoy a scrumptious ice cream on a hot (or cold) day.

Follow the historic walk from the Bushtucker Gardens, Chillingham Store and Hall, following the river along Beantree Walk past the Pioneer Wall, the Old Butcher Shop, the Jack Connelly and Johnny Brims Park, the Rous River Bridge, the Flute Workshop, and chat to local artists, craftspeople and residents about this natural village.

Clunes is located 20 kilometres north-east of Lismore. It was a staging post on the Lismore to Bangalow Road where the famous north coast dairy industry was first established. The village is named after an early engineer, Robert Mortimer Clunes, however it is fitting that Clunes is a Gaelic word meaning 'pleasant place'. There are some beautiful north coast houses and some fine early Australian church architecture. Clunes has a well stocked general store and bottle shop, cafe, native nursery and a wonderful vintage shop, The Old Romantic Shack which is full of amazing treasures.

Located on the meandering Richmond River this quaint country town offers great recreational activities such as water skiing and fishing. The main street of Coraki faces the river, a lovely park sloping down to a small sandy beach on the riverfront. Enjoy the landscape of Australia's farming industry, particularly sugar cane and tea tree, as it is highlighted in the spectacular sunsets. Coraki also reflects the rich heritage of the area with historic buildings throughout the town.

Once a bustling river port of wharves and cranes, coastal freighters, timber mills and boat yards, the village is now, as it has always been, a meeting place, not just for the two major rivers of the district, but also for its people. Known now as the 'Tea Tree Capital' each year in October the festive Coraki Art Prize and DylanFest draws many artists and patrons to the town.

Corndale is located in the heart of the beautiful Northern Rivers Hinterland, a scenic 30 minute drive from Lismore, 15 minutes from Bexhill Village, five minutes from Rosebank Village and 10 minutes from Nightcap National Park. The Bangalow Cheese Company is located in Corndale; these amazing local cheeses can be purchased at the Byron Bay and Bangalow Farmers Markets.

Dalmorton was once a thriving, rowdy community of 5000 people and 13 pubs living off the proceeds of a great but brief gold rush in the 1850s and 1860s. Today the war memorial and a road sign are all that remain of the township of Dalmorton. The scenery around Dalmorton is spectacular with the Boyd River nestled among high forested slopes. Not far from Dalmorton is the "Historic Tunnel" which is a site to see.

National Parks and Wildlife Service has opened a camping and picnic area near the Boyd (Little) River. The campsites are designed for camper trailers, vans and tents. There are also camping areas for larger groups. Facilities include: picnic tables, toilets, fireplaces and an information shelter. Campers would need to bring their own water.

Diggers Camp is the small village immediately north of Wooli with a four kilometre unsealed access road from the main Wooli Road. Diggers Headland Reserve Camping Ground caters for 27 sites and is situated on Crown Reserve and is classified as a primitive camping ground. When occupied the camp ground presents a low key appearance of a scattered bush/rural camp. Contact Clarence River Tourism for further information.

Dorroughby is located in the heart of the Northern Rivers Hinterland, a scenic 25 minute drive from Lismore, 20 minutes from The Channon, 30 minutes from Bangalow, and 45 minutes from Byron Bay.

Dorroughby is literally located at the edge of Nightcap National Park. Dorroughby is also the home of the Dorroughby Environment Education Centre. The role of the centre is to support the teaching of environmental education through the educational institutions in the area, in particular primary, secondary and tertiary institutions, governmental agencies and community groups.

Dunoon is located 20 kilometres from Lismore and is known as the Macadamia Capital of Australia. The macadamia processing plant on the outskirts of the village turns out delicious products which now compete on the world market. Orchards abound in the district. It also is home to an impressive sports ground and club, which hosts regional cricket and soccer games. Mayfield's Restaurant is located in the club and has a sumptuous menu. You can dine inside or alfresco on the timber deck. You can also visit Tanglefoot Gallery which has a wide range of local arts and crafts. The Dunoon General Store is a great place to stop and pick up some local produce. Dunoon is the gateway to Whian Whian State Forest and Rocky Creek Dam, the water supply to Lismore. Swimming is prohibited the dam is a beautiful picnic spot and there's four easy walks into the forest.

The historical village of Eltham located 15 kilometres from Lismore off the Bangalow Road provides a number of unique and interesting places to visit. Eltham's classic country pub, The Eltham Hotel, offers real country hospitality in a quiet location. A cold ale and counter meal with the locals will provide a real taste of village life. Stroll next door to the popular Eltham Village Gallery and purchase an amazing range of local arts and crafts.

The recently opened Eltham Valley Pantry offers visitors quality farmhouse cooking, homemade cakes and freshly roasted coffee in a tranquil setting. Visitors can stroll about the pecan orchard, relax with a coffee on the verandah or browse the pantry, which is stocked with a range of premium food products from the local area. The pantry also offers guided tours of the farm where visitors will learn how pecans are grown and harvested.

One of the Northern Rivers best kept secrets - the laidback fishing village of Evans Head - is ideal for travellers of all ages.

'Evans' is the 'Jewel In The Crown' of the Richmond Valley and boasts long unspoilt beaches, an abundance of fishing spots as well as deep sea fishing on its doorstep, a river estuary that provides a safe spot for children to swim and beaches for everyone, and a legendary surf break.

Adjacent to two national parks and part of the beautiful Richmond Valley, Evans Head is a haven for those wanting to escape the rat race. The town has one of the largest caravan parks in New South Wales, located on the banks of the river - safe swimming, shady spots, fantastic surfing and close to town - it is hard to beat.

This sleepy coastal fishing village at the mouth of the Tweed River is well worth a visit. You will find a general store, dinghy boat hire, art gallery and a caravan park adjacent to a quiet sandy beach.

A popular attraction at Fingal Head is the Fingal Lighthouse. The lighthouse can be reached with a short walk through remnant coastal rainforest to the headland, where visitors and locals relax to watch dolphins play and whales travel past during their annual migration season.

The area was name after Fingal in Ireland because the basalt headland was thought to be similar to the Giants Causeway there.

Cook Island and its marine reserve can be seen just offshore and the area attracts a variety of bird species and is a favourite with birdwatchers.

Glenreagh is near the southern boundary of the Clarence Valley area, about 38 kilometres south of Grafton on the Orara Way. It is within the Orara Valley, alongside the tranquil Orara River. The village is overlooked by magnificent sandstone ranges, much of which is State Forest.

The Orara River has the distinction of being one of the few coastal rivers in New South Wales to flow inland. It is some 30 kilometres in length and it joins the Clarence River at Ramornie.

Historically a timber town, many of the original timber dwellings still exist and a number of buildings are heritage listed.

The small community has an art gallery displaying the unique talents of the local artisans, a memorial museum, and old fashioned country hotel and cafe making Glenreagh the perfect place to stop and explore when travelling between Grafton and Coffs Harbour along the Orara Way.

The quiet village of Goolmangar is a scenic 10 minutes from Lismore and just over 15 minutes from Nimbin.

This quiet rural village has a great general store where you can stock up some fresh locally grown produce. As the village entrance sign suggests "Goolmangar Where the Cows Come First" the village and surrounding area are famous for their dairy industry.

This village has two traditional cow crossings which enable farmers to move their stock from the pasture to the milking sheds. For this reason please drive carefully and slowly and remember to give way to the cows!

The Goolmangar School of Arts Hall has been operating for over 100 years and is the home of many local social, educational and artistic groups.

Goonellabah is located on a ridge five kilometres east of the Lismore Central business district and is the fasting growing area in Lismore. Goonellabah is an aboriginal word meaning 'native coral tree'. It is mainly a residential area with spectacular views from the northern side of the ridge out to the Nightcap Ranges.

One of Australia's most beautiful provincial cities, Grafton is renowned for its Jacaranda trees, graceful old buildings, sporting and cultural facilities, and its location on the banks of the Clarence River.

As the commercial hub of the Clarence Valley, Grafton has a range of quality accommodation including motels, Bed and Breakfast's, self-contained apartments, hotels and caravan parks. There is great shopping, award-winning restaurants and smorgasbord of entertainment from the many pubs and clubs.

Outdoors, every turn reveals a stunning vista. Manicured gardens glow with seasonal blossoms and, throughout the year, Grafton's stately streets and parks host festivals and community celebrations that attract thousands of visitors.

One of Australia's most majestic waterways, the Clarence River is a dominant feature in Grafton's landscape and lifestyle. Visitors travel from all over the world to compete in dragon boat, sail, and power boat racing, the Head of the River rowing regatta in December.

Iluka has long been famous for fishing and serious anglers never visit without a frypan in the fishing gear. People also come to this beautiful coastal town to experience one of Australia's rarest and most accessible rainforest remnants.

The World Heritage listed Iluka Nature Reserve contains the largest remnant of littoral rainforest in New South Wales. It supports rich vegetation and abundant bird and wildlife.

Iluka Bluff has an excellent surfing beach and a great lookout platform with panoramic views - ideal for whale-watching. There is a netted swimming area at Iluka Bay and beautiful beaches with picnic areas at Back Beach, Frazers Reef and Woody Head.

Surfers and fisherman love the natural charm of Iluka.

A walk along the sea wall is the perfect way to unwind - or just sit, meditate and marvel at the tranquillity. This is a playground for dolphins.

Just south of Tweed Heads, Kingscliff is a beach community, offering a wide variety of holiday accommodation. It is a popular family destination and
provides beach and estuary access for swimming, surfing, fishing and water sports.

From Kingscliff there is easy access to Mt Warning and the World Heritage National Parks, cruises along the Tweed River and club style entertainment at
Tweed Heads. Fishing, is easily accessible either along the local Tweed River, or ocean front at Kingscliff.

Al fresco dining is a feature of the main street, with a wide variety of award winning restaurants offering world cuisines to tempt your tastebuds. On
weekends, live entertainment is available at the local sporting clubs and hotels.

Kyogle is the centre of a lush dairy and mixed farming area on the upper reaches of the Richmond River.

Kyogle declares itself Gateway to the Rainforests, and indeed the town is surrounded by many natural heritage areas, scenic drives, lookouts, picnic areas and atmospheric villages.

Two spectacular national parks in the region, Border Ranges and Mount Warning, are known for their stunning mountain scenery and rainforests.

If you choose to take the scenic Tourist Drive 22 between Maclean and Grafton you will encounter the quiet charm of the village of Lawrence, originally established in 1856. Lawrence is located at the junction of Sportmans Creek and the Clarence River and offers fine fishing, canoeing and plentiful bird life.

The colonial style local tavern has serves the best country tucker where you can stop for lunch or dinner and the local general store has take away, groceries, liquor supplies, petrol and hair salon. Perfect for tourists on the move.

There is a walking track along the river bank leading from Memorial Park to the lookout on High Street. The trip is one hour return and suitable for all ages. Memorial Park has barbecues, playgrounds, toilets and is a great spot for fishing and swimming.

Lawrence also has a 9-hole golf course for you to enjoy seven days a week.

The village of Lennox Head is a Mecca among surfers, with world-renowned breaks at Boulders and Lennox Point. The views from the headland are breathtaking and Pat Morton Lookout is the place for a bit of whale and dolphin spotting or, for the more adventurous, taking to the skies on a hang-glider.

Hidden between the white sands of Lennox's Seven Mile Beach and the wildlife-rich coastal heathland, Lake Ainsworth is a must. The fresh waters of the Lake are stained "billy-tea" dark by the tea trees that fringe its banks. Take the plunge into its deep red waters and you'll emerge feeling remarkably refreshed and revitalised. You can skim its shimmering surface on a sailboard, 'cat' or canoe or just lie back under the tea trees. Lake Ainsworth is the perfect backdrop for Lennox's monthly markets (second and fifth Sundays) and you can camp on the foreshores.

Lillian Rock is a scared Aboriginal landmark located next to Blue Knob Mountain. Lillian rock is a scenic 15 minute drive north of Nimbin, 45 minutes from north of Lismore and 42 minutes south of Murwillumbah. When visiting Lillian Rock stop in and enjoy the local art and scrumptious food at Blue Knob Gallery and Cafe. Approximately three kilometres from Lillian Rock is the award winning Calurla Chalets, a beautiful, secluded location with accommodation in comfortable cabins that have breath taking views of Mount Warning.

In this unspoilt, lush and laid back pocket of northern New South Wales, Lismore boasts the culture and convenience of a major regional centre as well as an extraordinarily beautiful natural environment. With a population of 45,000, Lismore provides many of the region's major services and its shopping, sporting facilities, hospitals and schools support residents throughout the area. Lismore is home to the Southern Cross University, the award-winning performing arts group NORPA, a valuable macadamia and dairy industry, a creative artistic community and a thriving business centre.

Regarded as the birthplace of eco-tourism, the Rainbow Region contains nearly a third of New South Wale's forest reserves. Surrounded by an area of extraordinary geographical beauty, visitors come to experience the heritage-listed rainforests and national parks.

The Cafe and Culture Trail is a unique experience. The Trail will guide you through Lismore's town centre pointing out significant areas of social history.

Three minutes off the Pacific Highway is the river town of Maclean, with a relaxed lifestyle that offers everything you've dreamed of.

Explore all the historic architecture of the town, take the heritage walking trail, visit the museum and don't miss the breathtaking views from the Maclean lookout over the town and the mighty Clarence River.

Take a relaxing stroll along the town centre boulevard with the beautifully restored shop fronts, browse through the many and varied shops and art and craft galleries and pick yourself up a special gift or souvenir. Enjoy a stop along the river bank and soak up the river charm of the mighty Clarence.

For golfing enthusiasts there is an 18-hole course located in beautiful surroundings on Woodford Island.

With a riverside caravan park, two motels, and hotels and a nearby bed and breakfast in Ashby your accommodation needs are covered.

Modanville is a village 20 minutes drive from Lismore. It is an interesting area with lush rainforest as well as farmland. Mainly dairy and macadamias are farmed in the area and its neighbouring village Dunoon is know as the Macadamia capital of Australia. Modanville has a general store and a primary school.

Mount Warning is the remnant central plug of the Southern Hemisphere's largest extinct shield volcano. Now eroded down to half its original height, the 1100 metre high Mount Warning offers a fantastic walk to the summit through rainforest communities. Given its name by Captain Cook, it was used as a warning to sailors of the dangerous Point Danger near Tweed Heads.

It was named "Wollumbin" meaning "cloud catcher" by the Bundjalung people who inhabited the region before European settlement. Mount Warning was added to the World Heritage list in 1975.

The Summit trail can be steep in parts and takes roughly five hours to climb. Toilets are only available at the start of the walk, suitable footwear should be worn, and temperature drops rapidly as you ascend, carry plenty of water, keep to the track and take all litter with you.

There is a campsite nearby.

Just a short drive from Byron Bay and set against the magnificent backdrop of Mount Chincogan and along the Brunswick River, this is an excellent stop-off for exploring the beautiful mountain ranges and hinterland villages, or taking in the deserted beaches that are not too far away. Known as 'the biggest little town in Australia' the town it is the central point for all the alternative life stylers that live in the hills and villages surrounding it.

The town has a variety of cafes, colourful shops, interesting buildings, attractive parks, a swimming pool and museum. It also hosts the headquarters of the Byron Shire Council. Colourful art and craft markets are held on the third Saturday of each month. Accommodation includes a pet friendly guesthouse, hotels and motels in town, and an extensive choice of Bed and Breakfasts and guesthouses.

On the banks of the Tweed River, Murwillumbah has the spectacular Mt Warning as its backdrop and patch-work cane fields along its river. Pioneer settler
and cattleman Joshua Bray first noted the name Murwillumbah in 1863 as his recording of the Aboriginal name for the local tribe and tribal lands between
the Rous and Tweed Rivers, but it was not until 1868 that the first vessel appeared on the Tweed River. A year later sugar cane began growing in the
district. By 1872 the town site was surveyed, with the river the main access and transport for settlers, timber and produce. The town is still the centre for
dairying, sugarcane and banana growing, and the famous Tweed Banana Festival, commemorates the agricultural strength of the region.

The historical museum, located in Queensland Road has some interesting documents recording the area's history.

Located along the Pacific Hwy between Ballina and Bangalow, this little village has a lot to offer. With an award winning restaurant and antique and curio shops, its definitely worth a stop. Nearby the countryside is dotted with Macadamia Nut, coffee plantations and B&B's. There is also a small school. It is a 10 minute drive from Newrybar to Byron Bay, and it is the gateway to The Gaia Retreat.

Nimbin is a small village located 30 kilometres north of Lismore on the doorstep of a World Heritage listed rainforest, Nightcap National Park. Nimbin was a sleepy dairy town until 1973 when it became the focus of national attention with the now famous Aquarius Festival. Out of this a new, alternative community was born. Today, it is this culture for which Nimbin is known.

Take a break from the everyday and experience Nimbin, a community renowned for its imaginative thinking, stunning scenery and alternative lifestyle. There are many attractions in the main street and beyond.

Stretching from the mighty Clarence River up to Tweed Heads on the Queensland border and out to the foothills of the Great Divide, the Northern Rivers region of NSW offers a wealth of diverse holiday experiences.

In this one compact region, you’ll discover the endless stretch of Pacific Coast beaches that gave birth to the Australian surfing legend; lush rolling countryside dotted with quaint and quirky townships; rugged cattle country; mystical rainforests; and deep river gorges disappearing up into the mountains.

Whether your idea of the perfect holiday is lazing on a sun-drenched beach, bushwalking through pristine rainforests, tootling through picture-postcard scenery along winding country roads, hunting for antiques and quirky treasures at sleepy villages and country markets, or pampering the spirit with a relaxing regime of massages and therapies …

you’ll be more than spoiled for choice in the Northern Rivers region.

Pottsville Beach is one of the many beaches along the Tweed Coast and the villages dotted along the coast are famous for their beaches, surfing, fishing, reserves and beachside parks.

Located on the coast due east of Mount Warning, Pottsville offers a variety of mainly budget accommodation including caravan parks, cabins, holiday flats and motels.

The creeks and estuaries provide ample opportunities for exploration, with canoeing, fishing and swimming popular, especially with children.

Pottsville Beach Markets operate on the first and third Sunday morning of the month, at the Phillip Street Reserve.

Boat launch ramps are available at Pottsville and Hastings Point.

Mount Warning and Nightcap National Parks are about 40 kilometres away.

Richmond Hill is a quiet rural area located just a short 15 minute scenic drive from the Lismore central business district, 12 minutes from the village of Clunes and 25 minutes from Bangalow. This quiet rural area has spectacular hinterland views, take the scenic drive from the top of Richmond Hill Road, accessed off Ballina Road and follow it right to the end where you can connect to Boatharbour Road and visit Eltham Valley Pantry which is the perfect spot for breakfast or lunch. Please contact the Lismore Visitor Information Centre for more information.

This beautiful rural valley is home to Australia's smallest Post Office. The Post Office also incorporates a General Store and has an extensive range of local food, arts and crafts. Rock Valley is a scenic 25 minute drive from Lismore, just 30 minutes from Nimbin and 45 minutes from Kyogle.

A scenic drive from Lismore, at the rainforest's edge the Rosebank area is dotted with macadamia and coffee plantations. There are awesome views of the rainforest gorge from the lookout at nearby Minyon Falls. At Minyon Falls you'll find picnic areas, lookouts, camping grounds at Rummery Park and walks through the rainforest and to the base of the falls. Just a few minutes drive before the falls is the Wren's Rest Cafe which features bronze sculptures and offers delicious lunch and dinner options. For more information please contact the staff and The Lismore and Nimbin Visitor Centres.

One of Australia's most beautiful provincial cities, South Grafton is renowned for its location on the banks of the Clarence River. As the commercial hub of the Clarence Valley, Grafton and South Grafton has a range of quality accommodation including motels, Bed and Breakfast's, self-contained apartments, hotels and caravan parks. There is great shopping, award-winning restaurants and entertainment from the many pubs and clubs.

Grafton's streets, parks and manicured gardens host festivals and community celebrations. The Clarence River is a dominant feature in Grafton's landscape and lifestyle. Visitors compete in dragon boat racing, sailing events and power boat racing, the Head of the River rowing regatta and the Bridge to Bridge Ski Race.

You can explore the River at a more sedate pace on a relaxing river cruise or a hire boat or canoe enjoy the pedestrian foot-bridge to cross the famous 'Bendy Bridge', an engineering marvel built in 1932.

South Lismore is a short two minute drive from the Lismore Central Business District. This part of Lismore has some wonderful places to visit such as Bold n Beautiful Interiors and Coffee shop which serves homemade light lunches cakes and quality coffee in a tranquil garden setting. While you wait for your coffee stroll around the collection of antiques, unique furniture, ornaments and giftware. GunnaWannaBe Cafe Gallery serves an amazing menu filled with a selection of traditional bushfoods and has a large range of local Aboriginal arts and crafts on display. Howard's Butchery and delicatessen is a foodie haven with its extensive selection of meat, poultry and game, specialising in gourmet foods, selected cheeses, smallgoods, dry goods and platters made to order.

Terania Creek is famous for being the site of the first direct action taken in defence of a forest in Australia. The people of Terania Creek, a number of whom had moved to the region after the Aquarius festival in 1973 and settled in Nimbin, were the first local residents in the history of the Australian environmental movement to place themselves between a bulldozer and a forest.

The protest was an important event in the campaign to gain World Heritage listing for the forests of central eastern Australia. Spectacular Protestor Falls in The Nightcap national Park is accessible by approaching the Nightcap along Terania Creek Road (14 kilometres unsealed, narrow and rough for large vehicles) from The Channon. Two causeways are crossed so care should be taken in wet weather. The waterfall is only 500 metres from the picnic area.

The Channon is a pretty village located 20 kilometres from Lismore set among hills draped in tranquil subtropical rainforests. On the second Sunday of each month, The Channon comes to life for its big, bold and funky craft market. Up to 10,000 people pour into the village to enjoy wonderful homemade cuisine and hand crafted goods, entertainment by buskers and to soak up the colour and energy.

The heritage listed Channon Tavern offers a traditional counter lunch, refreshing drink or hearty dinner. Once a butter factory, the Tavern has been transformed into a funky pub where locals and visitors mix.

The Channon is at the doorstep of the World Heritage listed Nightcap National Park and the spectacular Protesters Falls. Protestors Falls, set amidst beautiful rainforest, were named after the protesters who anti-logging campaign in the late 1970s and early 1980s led to the declaration of the National Park in 1983.

Tucki Tucki is known for its Nature Reserve. In 1958 residents of the Tucki district formed a committee dedicated to preserving the local koala population and its habitat. Four hectares of land adjacent to the Tucki Public School were planted with a variety of trees to provide food and shelter for the district's diminishing koala population. In 1967 the land came under the control of the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service and was named the Tucki Tucki Nature Reserve.

The reserve can be accessed via Wyrallah Road, which is an alternative route between Lismore and Woodburn. It is situated five and a half kilometres South of Wyrallah village and 15 minutes drive from the Lismore central business district.

Tuntable Creek is a beautiful quiet rural setting located in the heart of the Northern Rivers Hinterland. It is just a 40 minute scenic drive from Lismore, 25 minutes from Dunoon, and 10 minutes from The Channon and 20 minutes from Nimbin. The rural location provides a peaceful holiday setting.

Tweed Heads began to grow from 1870 after a pilot station was opened on the Tweed River. Today, beautiful golden beaches, a wide range of eateries and spectacular lookouts make the Tweed Heads/Coolangatta region a popular holiday destination.

Point Danger lookout is situated on the New South Wales/Queensland border. High on a peak overlooking Duranbah Beach, which is popular for surfing, Point Danger was named by Captain James Cook as he sailed up the east coast of Australia to warn of dangerous coral reefs off the coast. There are many activities to be enjoyed at Tweed Heads. Hire a boat and explore the Tweed River, enjoy a cruise and learn more about the region's history, or try your hand at fishing and crabbing. Tweed Heads is also a shopper's delight, with two major shopping centres close by.

Founded on timber getting and dairying, Uki (pronounced yook-eye) is a beautiful and peaceful village located virtually at the foot of Mt Warning. Situated
on the southern arm of the Tweed River, just about anywhere in Uki will provide you with stunning views of Mt Warning.

The village is a heritage conservation area with heritage buildings including the Mt Warning Hotel, the bank building and an old butter factory. Picnic
facilities including barbeque's are abundant at Clarrie Hall Dam, south of Uki.

The small village of Wadeville is located close to Cawongla. It has a general store, has an on-site bottle shop and is also the community meeting place and handy stop for provisions or directions. The Border Ranges Centre located behind the general store offers campervan and backpacker accommodation. There are camping facilities, powered sites, bunkhouse and double share accommodation. Transport and tours to The Border Ranges National Park are also available.

Whian Whian is located in the heart of the Northern Rivers Hinterland. Whian Whian State Conservation Area was created in 2003 to protect an area surrounded by Nightcap National Park; this new park is home to threatened species such as spotted tailed quoll, koala and platypus. Camp or picnic in the rainforest at Rummery Park, and enjoy a short walk up Boggy Creek to Minyon Falls within Nightcap National Park. Access to this area is 25 kilometres north of Lismore via Whian Whian Forest Drive off the Lismore - Mullumbimby Road.

Wooli is a beautiful seaside village with a storybook setting. On land it is encircled by Yuraygir National Park and the village is located on a narrow peninsula with the Wooli Wooli River on its western side and the Pacific Ocean to the east. This section of coastline forms the northern sector of the Solitary Islands Marine Park which protects the estuaries, beaches and islands from the Sandon River to Coffs Harbour in the south.

As the gateway to the Solitary Islands Marine Park, Wooli is the perfect place for those wanting to explore the natural underwater beauty of the marine park by deep-sea diving. Wooli is the only place in the Clarence Valley with a dive shop for those needing diving gear or tank refills.

The Wooli Wooli River can be negotiated for around 20 kilometres by canoe or boat. Kangaroos and wildlife abound along the banks.

Yamba boasts spectacular beaches, fabulous seafood, rolling surf, perfect climate and amazing seaside accommodation. Wake up to the sound of the ocean right at your door, breakfast at a funky cafe and head off for a day of cruising and discovery. Mathew Flinders first came to Yamba in 1799 and a maritime station was established in 1854 that remains to this day.

To explore the history of the town further, take a stroll along the Yamba Historical Walk finishing up at the local museum. Along the way you'll pass Pilot Hill and the lighthouse precinct which offer visitors beautiful panoramic ocean views. Check out the marina, hire a boat, take a relaxing river cruise, or order up a latte. And of course you can't go home without tasting the famous Yamba prawns.