Your next spring getaway: Narrandera
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After a season of hibernation, there’s nothing quite like a warm spring getaway to shake off a winter funk.
With the October long weekend in sight, we’ve uncovered a road-trip gem: Narrandera. A little over a 3.5-hour drive away, this New South Wales town boasts a jam-packed itinerary in spring—think extraordinary wildlife encounters, music festivals and one jaw-dropping water park. Here are our must-dos.
Lake Talbot Water Park
Described by locals as “the jewel of Narrandera Shire,” this state-of-the-art water park is the perfect place to make a splash. There are three huge slides, two swimming pools, a splash park for kids of all ages, terraced lawns, a kiosk and coin- operated barbecues. A favourite amongst kids is the adrenaline-racing high-speed racer slide that allows for two people to enjoy at a time. One Google review sums it up neatly: “The best splash park I’ve ever seen.”
1 Lake Drive, Narrandera | Open every day except Christmas Day.
Lake Talbot
Keen to get active? Ideal for boating, canoeing and water skiing, this artificial lake is located just 1.5 kilometres from the town centre and adjoins the Lake Talbot Water Park and Lake Talbot Caravan Park. There’s even a BBQ area so you can make a day of it.
The Good Old Days Festival
Head back to simpler times with The Good Old Days Festival, one of the nation’s most unique events authentically recreating and celebrating pioneer heritage. Held on the long weekend in October each year, the not-for-profit event is run by volunteers and contributes funds back into the regional community. It’s also the largest gathering of harnessed draught animals—horses, bullocks, camels, donkeys, mules and goats—in Australia. Early farming practices showcased include horse and bullock drawn ploughs, binders, wool wagons and a mallee roller. This year’s event will feature an on-site pop-up glamping area and a Saturday night concert with Country Music Hall of Fame Artist The Bushwackers as headliners.
1-2 October, Barellan Showgrounds Road, Barellan | barellanclydesdales.com
Narrandera Flora and Fauna Reserve (Koala Reserve)
Narrandera is known for being home to hundreds of koalas, and visitors can experience the excitement of finding a koala in its natural habitat at the Flora and Fauna reserve. Enjoy a picturesque walk to spot the koalas along the banks of the Murrumbidgee River and Lake Talbot or along the many walking trails that wind through the reserve. For guaranteed koala sightings join the annual koala headcount—a free, family-friendly event held every spring.
Oakbank Street, Narrandera | narrandera.nsw.gov
Rockin’ On East Festival
If you’re a fan of Elvis or The Beatles, you’ll be right at home at the Rockin’ on East Festival, which celebrates everything about the ‘50s and ‘60s Rock n Roll era—from the iconic fashion to the music. Even if you’re a 1950s novice, it’s the perfect festival to get your groove on.
30 September – 2 October | Narrandera Ex-Servicemen’s Club, 39/45 Bolton Street | rockinoneast.com
For more information visit narrandera.com
