explore the waterfall way

The Bellingen area has a rich history which has been well preserved and is regarded with pride by the
local community. The Aboriginal custodians of the land the Gumbaynggirr people consisted of two tribes
in the area. The Yellow Rock tribe was able to live a settled lifestyle around the estuary at Urunga, due
to the abundance of resources in the area. They would often invite neighbouring tribes to share the
resources. These gatherings were also an opportunity to trade and to celebrate.

The Upper Bellinger tribe migrated between the valley and the plateau. The ridges were their highways
and the seasons their guide. Tribal boundaries were strictly observed and the Gumbaynggirr survived
on the supply of resources within their territory. Only abundant foods were hunted and known breeding grounds were treated as sacred.

To learn more about the history of Aboriginal peoples in the area visit Urunga Boardwalk which contains detailed signage about the history of the people and their land, along with the chance to see a unique
wetland ecosystem. The Dorrigo Rainforest Centre also contains many books by local authors on the Aboriginal history of the area and often hosts exhibitions by local artists.

The two storeyed timber, stone and iron-lace Hammond & Wheatley Emporium located in Hyde Street Bellingen, is a remnant of early European settlement. It once supplied groceries and merchandise to
the early settlers who came to the area to fell cedar. It now caters for visitors with arts, wood crafts and designer fashions. Built in 1902 by George Moore it was the first cement-block construction in the
Southern Hemisphere.

For more on the history of the area visit the Bellingen Historical Museum, Urunga Museum, or Dorrigo Historical Museum. Each museum holds a collection of memorabilia and artefacts from the area.

SEE AND DO

While in urunga:

There are many beaches to enjoy near the coastal end of Waterfall Way that are excellent for fishing, swimming and surfing. North Beach at Mylestom is patrolled during school holidays. 4WD vehicles are allowed access north along the beach from Tuckers Rock up to Bundagen Headland and Bongil Bongil National Park, and south from the North Beach Surf Club to the river mouth.

Hungry Head beach is also patrolled during school holidays and further along, Wenonah offers 4WD access, surfing, fishing and diving. Please swim between the flags and remember to slip, slop, slap!

The 1.2km long Urunga Boardwalk, recently extended, follows the banks of the Bellinger and Kalang rivers through a unique wetland to the beach. It displays detailed signage about the history of the Aboriginal people in the area and offers a close up of the rich wildlife along the coast.

While in Bellingen:

Rotary lookout which offers a spectacular panorama of the Bellingen Valley.

Bellingen Community Markets are held the third Saturday of each month in Bellingen Park. The markets are famous for a wonderful blend of arts, crafts, and local produce.

Bellingen hosts a range of festivals throughout the year including Camp Creative - an arts and performance school for the whole family - in January, the world-culture event Global Carnival on the October long weekend and the Bellingen Jazz and Blues Festival in August.

The Promised Land, near Gleniffer north of Bellingen offers a superb scenic drive and following the Loop Road along Never Never Creek. Allow one hour for this drive (the road is partially unsealed). Allow a little longer if you take a picnic or feel like a swim.

Brierfield – South Arm Drive is a one hour scenic trip south through some of Bellingen’s most spectacular hinterland.

The Old Butter Factory encapsulates all that is Bellingen. The talent of local artists is displayed in the many galleries and craft shops. The beautifully preserved building which houses the Café is an attraction in its self.

While in Dorrigo:

This lovely quiet town boasts many art galleries, delightful cafes and country shops, as well as the National Trust listed Dorrigo Hotel, an example of fine architecture and old world charm. The Dorrigo Historical Museum has a special collection of family histories archives and heritage pieces including a unique collection of antique machinery. Opening hours 11:00pm - 3:00pm Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

The Dorrigo National Park is home to the Skywalk which takes you over Gondwana Rainforests. Many walks take you to (and under!) the waterfalls in this World Heritage Area. National Park Rangers conduct Discovery tours during school holidays. Plan a picnic at The Glade or Never Never picnic areas.

Dangar Falls is 1km north from Dorrigo on the Megan Road. There is a carpark over looking the falls, toilets and picnic area.

Ebor Falls is a 20 minute drive west of Dorrigo at Ebor on Waterfall Way. Two lookouts provide spectacular views of the falls and the upper Guy Fawkes River Valley. Venture a little further on to Point Lookout in New England National Park. On a clear day you can see the Pacific Ocean 70km away!

Platypus Flat - drive west to Bosterbrick and follow Moonpar Forest Drive into Nymboi-Binderay National Park. A large swimming hole on the Nymboida River makes Platypus Flat a popular camping ground. It is a launching point for many white water rafting expeditions. Take a stroll along through Norman Jolly Grove among 600 year old tallowwood trees.

For more information about any of these interesting, fun, free activities and other great things to see
and do in the Bellingen Shire contact the friendly team at the Waterfall Way Visitor Centre.

Ph: 1800 705 735 or (02) 6655 1522
E: info@bellingermagic.com www.bellingermagic.com

waterfall way visitor Centre