Fast facts
- Vibrant city with pioneering past and Taronga Western Plains Zoo
- In the fertile Macquarie Valley where the Newell, Mitchell and Golden highways meet
- 408 km north-west of Sydney, five hours' drive from Sydney, population 39,500
Why go there
Dubbo combines a rich pastoral history with great food and wine, expansive parklands, museums, galleries, art and crafts, and the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
A range of accommodation and kid-friendly attractions make Dubbo a great family holiday destination and a base for exploring the Central West region.
History
John Oxley led an expedition into the fertile lands of the local Wiradjuri people in 1817.
It was not until Robert Dulhunty arrived, a decade later, to establish grazing lands that the town acquired its name.
Dubbo means "red earth" in the Wiradjuri language.
Since the end of the 19th century, Dubbo has been the major commercial and service centre for western NSW.
Things to do
- Learn about Australia's pioneering history on a heritage walk, at an historic homestead, Victorian era goal or modern cultural centre.
- Family attractions abound in Dubbo with the renowned zoo, observatory, horseriding, fun parks and boomerang throwing.
- Enjoy local produce including the red and white wines of an emerging wine region.
Events
- Dubbo Show, in May, features agricultural displays, exhibits and competitions.
- Dubbo Antiques and Collectables Fair in July.
- Dubbo Jazz Festival in August.
- Dubbo Multicultural Festival in September.
Don’t miss
- Boomerang throwing at Jedda Boomerangs.
- Zoofari Lodge at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
- A trail ride overlooking Dubbo with Western Plains Riding Centre.
- The crystal clear night skies at Dubbo Observatory.
- Dundullimal, a timber-slab house built in the 1840s, a fine homestead now open to the public.
- Old Dubbo Gaol, now a museum and chilling reminder of Victorian-era prison life.
