New England and North West Info
Introduction
The New England Northwest region of New South Wales is situated midway between Sydney and Brisbane. It offers an exciting blend of agriculture, industry, culture and natural beauty. The area encompasses Australia’s Northern Tablelands, an area well known for its wool production, sugarcane growth and tourist industry. The region has vast expanses of wide open spaces, bordered by the North West Slopes to the West of New England. This particular area is defined by its many hills and includes the towns of Gunnedah, Warialda, Narrabri, and Morree.
New England North West is often described as Australia’s big outdoors, where the stars touch the sky. It is here that you can enjoy immense stretches of uninhabited flatlands contained only by the infinite blue skies rising high above.
Many people come to breathe in the fresh, crisp air and to enjoy the wonders of nature, far from the drone of city life. Still others venture down to the New England North West region to take a closer look at life on the farm and to imbibe the wholesome country atmosphere. Apart from the farming centers, the region is flanked by national parks and secluded fishing and fossicking (that’s gold panning) opportunities.
Whatever the reason for coming to New England North West, visitors will find that they are surrounded by a warm and convivial community.
Visiting
New England North West is picturesque; its big and natural. The area is famous for its big country, its farmlands and for its warm, hearty country spirit. There’s a lot to see and do here; visitors can enjoy the cool summer breezes in the tablelands, they can bask in the glorious autumn leaves or enjoy toasty fireside dinners in a cozy country diner. The main attractions of this region include Armidale, Narrabri, Inverell Pioneer Village, Tamworth and Moree Hot Mineral Baths.
Situated in the northern tablelands, and two hours from the coast following Waterfall Way, Armidale is recognized for its varied history and unique architecture. This university town was colonized early on by European settlers who had a hand in building Armidale’s magnificent cathedrals, heritage buildings and rustic farmhouses. There’s a free two and a half hour Heritage Bus Tour which runs every day from the Visitor’s Center, starting at10 am. Armidale houses a number of museums and galleries. The city’s tree lined streets are particularly striking during the fall, when the leaves immerse the town in a sea of vibrant colors. Armidale makes a great base for exploring New England and the North West area.
Inverell was founded in 1833, when settlers Colin and Rosana Ross arrived to start a store for settlers in the area. The town is located at the western border of the tablelands, lying in a valley next to the Macintyre River. Called the Sapphire City, this quaint town oozes with old world charm and modern conveniences. It has a bustling shopping center, a thriving commercial district and vast farm areas.
Tamworth is home to the Country Music Festival, a ten day long music bash occurring each January. Each year more than 50,000 visitors come to listen to the great tunes on offer. Besides music, Tamworth is renowned for its striking Botanic Gardens and its beautiful city center with leafy green trees and elegant cafes lining the streets. There are also a number of country music themed museums, such as the Golden Guitar and the Big Walk a Country Mile museum. Tamworth is a stone’s throw away from Manilla, Australia’s number one stop for hang gliding. It is also pretty close to Nandle, a great fishing haven.
Moree is famous for their steaming hot Artesian Baths. These are refreshing natural hot springs which will invigorate anyone after a long day’s journey. The town is also home to a series of walking treks that will give you an eyeful of the area’s striking landscape and fascinating cultural heritage.
Narrabri, which means ‘forked waters’ is located 240 meters above the sea. The town, which is a six hour drive from Sydney, has a spectacular lake on its western border; the Namoi river runs through the city center offering a place of respite for many of the town’s warm hearted residents. Tourist attractions include Mt. Kaputar national Park, Waa Gorge and Sawn Rocks.
Wherever you choose to go in New England North West, you’ll find yourself surrounded by amazing landscapes and warm, friendly people.