Taree

Taree, the bustling heart of the Manning Valley, sits midway between Sydney and Brisbane, making it a perfect stop on a coastal road trip. This welcoming country town is your gateway to lush dairy country, pristine beaches, and the Manning River. Known for its timber history and vibrant arts scene, Taree offers a genuine slice of Australian country life with all the amenities you need.

Highlights & What to See

• Manning River Cruise – Glide along the serene Manning River on a paddlewheeler or houseboat, spotting pelicans and oyster farms along the way.
• Old Bar Beach – A laid-back surf beach just 15 minutes south, perfect for swimming, fishing, or a coastal walk at sunset.
• Manning Entertainment Centre – Catch a live show, concert, or local theatre production in this modern venue.
• Taree Heritage Walk – Explore historic buildings like the Taree Courthouse and the old Post Office, which tell the story of the town's timber and railway past.
• Big Oyster – Snap a photo at this quirky giant oyster sculpture, a nod to the region's oyster farming.
• Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park – Get up close with native animals, including koalas, kangaroos, and crocodiles, just north of town.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers pass through Taree on a road trip, and one full day is enough to soak up the main sights. Spend the morning on a river cruise or at the wildlife park, then explore the town centre and grab lunch at a café. If you can, stay overnight to enjoy sunset at Old Bar Beach and a relaxed dinner at a riverside restaurant. Taree also works well as a two-day base for exploring the wider Manning Valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster-Tuncurry – A stunning coastal area with beautiful beaches, the Great Lakes, and dolphin cruises, just 45 minutes south.
• Port Macquarie – A vibrant coastal city with a famous koala hospital, historic lighthouse, and scenic coastal walk, one hour north.
• Wingham – A charming historic village with antique shops and the Wingham Brush Nature Reserve, home to flying foxes and rainforest birds, 15 minutes west.
• Booti Booti National Park – A coastal park with dramatic headlands, pristine beaches, and walking tracks, 40 minutes south.
• Gloucester – A scenic town at the foot of the Bucketts Mountains, offering bushwalking, horse riding, and a taste of country life, 45 minutes northwest.

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