Fast facts
- A country town "with character" backed by magnificent rolling hills
- Primarily dairying and beef cattle country
- 228 km north of Sydney, population 8,000
Why go there
Dungog is rich in natural assets. Mountain ranges, freshwater streams, clean air and magnificent rural vistas entice visitors to the area.
The main street is an urban conservation area. Notable historic buildings include the primary school built in 1843 by the well known colonial architect Edmund Blackett.
Barrington Tops National Park is a must for nature lovers. This vast, undulating basalt-capped plateau rises sharply from the surrounding valleys to a height of almost 1,600 m. hee you'll find a wonder world of gushing streams, waterfalls, forests and soaring cliffs.
History
It's believed that the Wanaruah people originally occupied the area, prior to European settlement.
Dungog’s prosperity was built on the local timber industry. In recent times, Dungog brushbox was used for much of the interior of the Sydney Opera House.
In 1834, the town was established as a military command post for hunting bushrangers who were active in the area. The town features many historic buildings, testaments to this period of Dungog’s past.
Things to do
- Take a tour of the fine historic buildings.
- Spend a day walking in Barrington Tops National Park.
- Stay at one of the Cangon Cottages at Cangon Homestead, just out of town.
Events
- Dungog Pedalfest in September is a celebration of cycling in the beautiful Williams Valley. This involves music, dancing, food, a film night at the historic Dungog Picture Theatre, local markets and varied cycling activities for all ages and abilities.
Don’t miss
- The School of Arts museum of local history.
- Swimming in the Ladies Well on the Allyn River.
- The panoramic view from Mount Allyn.
- The Spanish Mission-style facade of the town's cinema.
- The Jubilee Community markets, held on the first Saturday of every month.
