Nambucca Heads, North Coast — New South Wales

Nambucca Heads is a town located in the North Coast region of New South Wales. The place-name was said to have been derived from a local Gumbaynggir word which means either ‘entrance to the waters’ or ‘crooked river,’ alluding to the location of the town at the northern part of the Nambucca River estuary, at the river mouth.

The town is a popular holiday destination, with its beautiful beaches and scenic land-based attractions.

Surfing is a popular recreation at several of the beaches though some, like the Nambucca Head Main Beach, are off-limits in designated times of the year. Alternatives for beach lovers include the Beilbys Beach off Ulrick Drive and the Shelley Beach. At Valla Beach, accessed through Valla Road, there are safe swimming areas for children, while adults can also go surfing or fishing. Picnic areas are also provided while the more vigorous individuals can take a walk back to the Nambucca Main Beach. Valla Beach is also the location of the annual Volkswagen Spectacular.

The Gordon Park, accessed via Wellington Drive, is a popular outdoor recreation destination. Because it borders several residential areas, it provides easy access for hiking, biking, and picnics to both locals and visitors. The park also has an arboretum and a swamp. Walking trails lead visitors to the coastal forest and a small part of the nearby rainforest, with spectacular views along the way.

On Parkes Street are two lookouts that provide scenic views of the town and its surrounding areas, the Rotary Lookout and the Captain Cook Lookout.

The nearby river provides plenty of opportunities for water-based recreations. There are several hire companies that rents out kayaks and canoes. Those interested in trying white-water rafting can also make arrangements at the visitors’ information center.

The town’s history is showcased at the Headland Historical Museum, along Liston Street. Most items on display are related to community life in the area during the 19th and 20th centuries.

The town also has several interesting items that are tourist attractions in themselves. One is the Nambucca Valley Model Railway on Pelican Crescent. The site features working models of trains operating within the state.

Visitors also take a moment or two to appreciate the Nambucca Mosaic Sculpture at the corner of Bowra Street. An entire wall depicts several marine colorful animals frolicking in the ocean.

Another manifestation of the residents’ artistic inclinations is the Graffiti Gallery, where the entire Vee Wall is painted and written with poems.

Those interested in purchasing local crafts and other hand-made items should head out to Crafters’ Cottage situated on Bowra Street.

Handcrafted toys are also available along the Pacific Highway, at the Swiss Toymakers. All toys available in this facility are wooden and are quite beautiful souvenirs for those passing through.

Visitors can also take the Waterfront Walks, which lead to the town’s beaches, headlands, and foreshores. One point of interest is the location of the town’s original village where a shipyard was once located.

Residents and visitors converge to the town every September for the annual September Fest, when activities and event are organized for the whole family to enjoy.