Narromine

The rural town of Narromine has a rich aviation heritage and the area is renowned for its fantastic thermals, which make it one of the world's best gliding locations. Located by the Macquarie River, in the Great Western Plains region of NSW, Narromine has a number of historic buildings, including four hotels which are over 110 years old.

Things to do

Some of the greats of aviation have visited the aerodrome, including aviators Nancy-Bird Walton and Charles Kingsford Smith and American flying ace and test pilot Chuck Yeager. Australia’s first regional flying club was started here in 1929 and air force pilots trained at the aerodrome in World War II.

You can explore its intriguing history at the Narromine Aviation Museum, which has the first flyable replica of the 1907 Wright Flyer Model A. Vintage aircraft include a 1938 Corben Super Ace and a 1953 Hawkridge Venture glider.

Sailplane pilots from far and wide are attracted to some of the world’s best thermal soaring. You can experience the thrill of a sailplane flight at the aerodrome with an introductory tandem flight. Ultralight and light aircraft flights are available, too.

You’ll find pretty parks such as the riverside Rotary Park, a popular spot for picnics, kayaking and fishing. In Tom Perry Park is a life-size bronze statue of cricketing great Glenn McGrath, a fast bowler born in Narromine. The lovely Iris Farm is a wonderful picnic spot in flowering season.

In Trangie, northwest of Narromine, is one of Australia’s iconic ‘big things’ – the Big Billy – and the fascinating Wungunja Cultural Centre. Explore the Aboriginal heritage and artefacts in the centre, such as carved ceremonial trees, and browse authentic Aboriginal art, boomerangs and didgeridoos.

South of Narromine is the village of Tomingley, which has a long history of gold mining and the Cross Roads pub. It’s also the gateway to the spectacular Caloma lookout in the Goobang National Park. There are camping sites in the park, home to wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas and colourful birdlife.

Getting there and where to stay

Getting to Narromine is easy, with the drive west from Dubbo only 30 minutes. There are various accommodation options, including B&Bs, motor inns and caravan parks, and you’ll also find cafes, restaurants and classic country pubs, including the Royal Hotel, in Dandaloo Street, which was built in 1890 and was an old Cobb & Co stopping point.