DESTINATION: Kempsey

The largest urban centre in the rural Macleay Valley, Kempsey is divided by the Pacific Hwy and the Macleay River. The town attracts business and tourists, and is growing as a retirement centre. Kempsey is also the home of Australia's famous Akubra hats, although the factory is not open to the public.

Main Attractions

Kempsey's most interesting historic buildings are located mainly in Kemp, Elbow and Sea sts. Many of these 19th-century buildings are listed on the town's heritage trail. South Kempsey Park is the location of the Kempsey Cultural Centre. Here visitors will find the information centre and the Macleay River Historical Museum, which is open daily 10am-4pm. The museum displays feature an early settler's cottage and the local history of Aboriginal groups from the Macleay valley.

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Nearby attractions

One of Kempsey's main attractions is its proximity to the coastal resorts of South West Rocks, Crescent Head, Hat Head, Stuarts Point and Grassy Head, all offering unspoilt coastal scenery and clean beaches. Wilay Bijarr Aboriginal Tours offers cultural and historical tours of significant Aboriginal sites in the area, covering bush tucker and medicine. Ph: (02) 6562 5959

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Region: North Coast NSW

Barrington Tops State Forests, near upper Manning River

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Stretching from Port Stephens to Coffs Harbour and inland to Dorrigo, North Coast NSW offers a unique taste of New South Wales. Whether you head to one of the popular coastal meccas, such as Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Port Stephens, or explore one of the region's stunning national parks - you are bound to find a perfect holiday escape. more

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Tourist info

Pacific Hwy, South Kempsey, Ph: (02) 6563 1555

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