Dubbo, New South Wales-All About the Animals!

Western Plains Zoo

If you’re visiting New South Wales, your trip won’t be complete without a stop in Dubbo. In fact, you’re unlikely to miss it! Dubbo is widely considered to be the crossroads of NSW. The town lies in the middle of the major centers of population. From here, you can drive north to Brisbane, east to Sydney, south to Melbourne, and west to Adelaide. You’re encouraged to stop, however! Don’t let Dubbo fly past without stopping for at least a few hours to enjoy some of the attractions the town has to offer. It’s also a great place to pause if you’re looking for accommodation in Dubbo after a long day at the wheel.

This sleepy little hamlet of about 30,000 is well known for the Western Plains Zoo, home to a “wild and wonderful slice of Africa”. And you thought you needed to travel all the way to Kenya to see the Great Migration! For less than 40 dollars, you’ll find yourself immersed in a flood of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes!

The Zoo is also an important center for research, and visitors are encouraged to join in the fun. On an average day, don’t be surprised to encounter more than a few endangered species. Along with The National Zoo just south of Brisbane, this is truly one of Australia’s premier spots for learning about wildlife. One important note: if you plan on visiting the Western Plains Zoo before early 2009, the management encourages you to take public transportation, as construction has closed much of the carpark.

While the Zoo is Dubbo’s main attraction, that’s certainly not all the town has to offer. There are also a number of fantastic gardens throughout, each of which makes for a pleasant afternoon stroll. These include the Biodiversity Garden, the Shoyoen Sister City Garden, and Dundillimal. You’re liable to laze the hours away amidst the pleasant surroundings.

If you’re traveling to Dubbo with children, there’s no shortage of activities to keep them occupied. Perhaps the most appealing is Jedda Boomerangs, open everyday except Saturday. If you or your kids have ever wanted to learn to throw a boomerang, this is the place! You’ll also have the opportunity to decorate your very own boomerang, creating a keepsake to remember your trip to Dubbo.

When dinnertime rolls around, you’ll find a wide range of options in town. At the lower end of the spectrum, the One 7 Eight Dining and Bar is quite popular. If you’re looking for something just a bit fancier, try the Ashwoods Gourmet Restaurant, located in the resort of the same name. Head Chef Mark Hawkins serves up delicacies including BBQ salmon steak and a tender duck breast.

Dubbo and all of its animals wait for your arrival! Visit now to see what you’ve been missing.