Kempsey, North Coast — New South Wales

Kempsey is a town located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, on the banks of the Macleay River. The town was said to be named after Kempsey in the Severn Valley, in England.

The town has undergone considerable growth in the last decade or so, being a service center for the nearby coastal resorts. The town is also recognized as a popular tourist destination in itself, quite accessible through the Pacific Highway and offering some of the area’s wonderful attractions.

The river provides some of the best swimming spots in the area. The clear waters of the river ensures hours of fun for the whole family, whether having picnics on the banks or indulging in boating or kayaking.

Fishing is also a popular activity, with the river teeming with Australian Bass especially in the months of October to April. In fact, some avid fishermen from big cities make the journey to Kempsey just for this particular activity.

One of the interesting structures in Kempsey is the building housing its tourist information office and historical museum, the Kempsey Cultural Centre. Located at the southern end of the town, the center bears features distinctive of the design of architect Glenn Murcutt. The museum is being run by the Macleay River Historical Society, and showcases items related to local history, particularly on the period before European settlement, including several Aboriginal artifacts. The cultural center also has a Settlers cottage and an art show within its premises.

Visitors should also take the time to go to the Apex Park Historical Lookout, where scenic views of the town can be enjoyed. Situated on a hill overlooking the river and surrounding areas, it is also where the first homestead of the town was built.

There are also several historic buildings within Kempsey and most of them are built on the western part of the town. Example of which is the court house, an elegant structure with its distinctive gables and parapets. Another notable structure is the High Victorian-style Post Office, located on Belgrave Street and built in 1880.

Strolling along the town should take visitors to the Bridge over Five Day Creek. Scenic views can be enjoyed from this vantage point which is located along the Main Road.

Enjoying the outdoors can be done at the Rudder Park, along the Pacific Highway. Scenic views all around provide beautiful backdrop for picnics and barbecues. The park is also the departure point for heritage walks to East Kempsey.

For a unique experience, visitors should stop by the Wigay Traditional Food Park, on Sea Street. The site is focused on promoting the Aboriginal way of making use of numerous varieties of plants for food. Tasting sessions are offered, while lunch and teas are also served for those willing to try their special cuisine.

Beautiful wood furniture and woodcrafts can be bought from the Kempsey District Woodworkers Club, located on Becke Street.

The town also holds the Kempsey Community Markets every Thursday, when visitors and locals converge to celebrate community spirit while trading local produce and products.