Bingara

Set in a tranquil valley on the banks of the Gwydir River, Bingara is full of fascinating gold rush heritage. This historic gold and diamond mining town is also a popular place for outdoor adventure, and a great place for fossicking and fishing.

Gold & gems

Gold fever struck the district in the 1850s and diamonds were also discovered in the 1880s. In these colonial times, Bingara was Australia’s largest diamond producer. Learn more and try your luck panning for gold at the Three Creeks Tourist Gold Mine.

In gemstone country on the Fossickers Way touring route, this district is popular for gold, gem and crystal fossicking. Pick up a fossicking map from the Bingara Visitor Information Centre. See gems in the Gem and Mineral Museum, part of the Bingara Historical Museum Complex.

Explore local history

Restored to its former glory, the art deco Roxy Theatre is home to a cafe, theatre and museum. The town has many other heritage buildings such as the 1879 Imperial Hotel, where you can enjoy a great lunch or dinner.

Northwest of Bingara is the Myall Creek Massacre Memorial. This heritage-listed memorial is one of Australia’s most important reconciliation sites. A service is held here every June long weekend.

Outdoor adventure

For anglers, the Gwydir and Horton rivers are some of the best inland freshwater fishing spots in Australia. Experience the meandering Gwydir River by hiring a canoe from Wade Horses Bingara. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including platypus.

There are boat ramps in the Copeton Waters State Park, where you can cast a line for Murray cod and golden perch. This is a popular place for boating, water-skiing and bushwalking. You’ll also find plenty of great places to picnic.

Getting there & where to stay

Bingara is a 6hr 45min drive from Sydney, 5hr 30min from Brisbane and 1hr 40min from Glen Innes. The nearest airport is Moree where you can hire a car for the 70min drive. You’ll find many places to stay, from hotels and country cottages to holiday parks, riverside camping and cabins.