Chaffey Dam

Chaffey Dam is a peaceful reservoir nestled in the rolling hills of the New England region, about 30 kilometres southeast of Tamworth. It's a favourite spot for locals and in-the-know travellers seeking quiet water-based recreation, birdwatching, and a dose of rural serenity. The dam supplies water to the Peel Valley and offers a surprising escape into nature with its clear waters and bush-clad shores.

Highlights & What to See

• Water Activities: Bring your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to explore the calm waters. Swimming is permitted in designated areas, and fishing for golden perch, Murray cod, and silver perch is popular from the bank or a boat.
• Birdwatching: The dam and its surrounds attract a variety of waterbirds, including pelicans, cormorants, and ducks. Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead.
• Picnic and BBQ Areas: Shady picnic spots with electric barbecues, tables, and toilets make for an easy lunch with a view. The main recreation area near the spillway is well maintained.
• Walking and Cycling: A network of unsealed roads and trails around the dam offers gentle walking and mountain biking opportunities, with lovely views across the water.
• Scenic Drive: The approach to Chaffey Dam via Nundle Road winds through picturesque farmland and forest, especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves turn golden.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day to a full day at Chaffey Dam. Arrive mid-morning to secure a prime picnic spot, enjoy a few hours on the water, and take a short walk before lunch. If you're keen on fishing or kayaking, a full day allows for a relaxed pace. There are no overnight camping facilities at the dam itself, but nearby Nundle or Tamworth offer accommodation for those wanting to extend their stay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nundle: A charming historic gold-mining village 15 minutes away, with the Nundle Woollen Mill, antique shops, and the Hanging Rock Lookout offering panoramic views.
• Tamworth: Australia's country music capital, 35 minutes north, with the Big Golden Guitar, the Tamworth Regional Gallery, and the Powerhouse Motorcycle Museum.
• Barry Station Wildlife Sanctuary: A conservation property near Nundle where you can spot kangaroos, wallabies, and native birds in a natural bush setting.
• Great Lakes Way: A scenic driving route that links Tamworth to the coast via the New England and Oxley highways, passing through stunning gorges and national parks.
• Werris Creek: A railway heritage town about 45 minutes west, home to the Australian Railway Monument and a well-preserved station.

Please check official sources for current details.