Coonamble welcomes travellers from all over the world, where its sense of community is as warm as the Australian sunshine, making Coonamble a true gem of the outback.

When travelling to Coonamble from Sydney, you have two primary routes to consider. The most common is a six and a half hour drive via Katoomba (or Bilpin, if you opt for Bell's Line of Road), Lithgow, Mudgee and Gilgandra. However, if you prefer a traffic light free route, you can extend your drive by half an hour by taking the Hume Highway north toward Newcastle, then heading inland via the Hunter Expressway and Dunedoo. 

For those seeking a quicker travel option, there’s a one-hour flight to Dubbo, serviced by Qantas or Rex, followed by a rental car for the 160 kilometre journey north to Coonamble. Alternatively, you can choose the train by catching the XPT from Sydney to Dubbo, which takes approximately six and a half hours, followed by a bus ride to Coonamble.

Should your schedule allow, don't miss the chance to make a worthwhile pitstop in Denman while cruising along the Hunter Expressway. Here, you'll find a brand new adventure playground, conveniently situated near charming cafes serving up aromatic, gourmet coffee. Continue your journey just a half-hour ahead, and the irresistible aromas of Merriwa Bakery will call you in with its mouthwatering pies and delectable cheese and bacon sausage rolls. And if your travels take you across the scenic Blue Mountains, make sure to include a visit to the food and wine region of Mudgee in your travel plans.

The Bucking Bull has been serving cold beer since 1889 and a great place to start your weekend in Coonamble. The hotel is the oldest surviving hotel in the town. An excellent representation of the Federation Arts and Crafts architectural style, this historic gem reflects the changing landscape of Coonamble's business district over the years. With its rich historical significance and intriguing tales of paranormal encounters, the Bucking Bull Hotel stands as a testament to Coonamble's unique heritage. It serves a delicious variety of pizzas from 6pm daily.

Start your day at the Two Birds Cafe, where you can indulge in a sophisticated coffee and breakfast experience featuring a diverse selection of yummy cafe delights, all offered at prices that won't break the bank. Nestled in the same complex, the enchanting Mink and Me awaits, a regional boutique that offers gorgeous clothing, homewares and gifts to elevate your personal style and infuse your home with charm. Discover the perfect blend of culinary and retail delights in the heart of this picturesque town.

Jump in your car and take a half hour drive south to nearby Gulargambone. Gulargambone is an Aboriginal word meaning "watering hole for many galahs". Grab another coffee and a freshly baked lunch at the Visitor Information Centre café 2828. While you're there, pick up your Street Art Walk map.

The Gulargambone's Street Art Walk boasts around 15 artworks, from murals to sculptures. Stroll and appreciate the beautifully detailed shopfronts. You can even spot them from your car, but make sure to stop and soak in the intricate details along the way. If you want a further walk you can also add on the Riverwalk by the Gulargambone River, it's a brief walk but very picturesque. 

Return to Coonamble and as you enter town be sure to keep an eye out for the Coonamble Water Tower. This is the ideal moment to take a quick break and seize the chance for a photo op in front of this iconic artwork.

Before dinner, take a stroll down the main street to explore the renowned Nickname Hall of Fame, which showcases caricatures and tales of the town's most colorful characters, complete with their amusing anecdotes and the origins of their unique monikers.

Indulge in top-notch Asian cuisine at the Coonamble Golf Club, offering a delightful array of dine-in and takeaway options. Keep an eye out for their monthly featured dishes, alongside beloved Australian classics. Unwind on the picturesque deck with a scenic view of the golf course, all while savoring a refreshing cold beer.

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Jen grew up in Bathurst in central west NSW but now calls Gilgandra home. She lives on a mixed enterprise farm with her husband and two young children.