Hay

Hay is a charming outback town on the Murrumbidgee River in the Riverina region of New South Wales. With its wide streets, historic buildings, and a relaxed pace, it offers a genuine taste of rural Australia. The town is a gateway to the vast Hay Plains and is rich in pastoral history, making it a fascinating stop for travellers exploring inland NSW.

Highlights & What to See

• Hay Gaol Museum – A former prison turned museum, offering a gripping look at colonial-era justice and local history. The eerie cells and displays of everyday life in the 19th century are unforgettable.
• Bishop's Lodge Historic House – This elegant 1880s residence showcases period furnishings and tells the story of the town's early settlers. The gardens are perfect for a peaceful stroll.
• Hay War Memorial High School Museum – A unique school-based museum with extensive military memorabilia, including items from World War I and the Boer War.
• Murrumbidgee River Walk – Follow the riverbank trail for birdwatching, picnicking, and spotting the iconic red gums. It’s a serene spot to unwind after a long drive.
• Shearers' Hall of Fame – Celebrate the region’s wool industry with interactive exhibits and stories of the shearers who shaped the outback.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers find a half-day to a full day enough to explore Hay’s main attractions and soak up its laid-back atmosphere. If you’re on a road trip, an overnight stop lets you enjoy a sunset walk along the river and a hearty meal at a local pub. For those keen on history, linger longer to delve into the museums.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Deniliquin – About 80 km south, this town on the Edward River offers more river walks, a historic railway station, and the Deniliquin Ute Muster if you time it right.
• Griffith – A two-hour drive east, Griffith is a foodie haven with Italian heritage, renowned wineries, and the stunning Scenic Hill lookout.
• Narrandera – On the way to Griffith, this town has a lovely lake, a historic gaol, and the Koala Reserve where you can spot wild koalas.
• Mungo National Park – A three-hour drive west, this UNESCO World Heritage site features the dramatic Walls of China and ancient Aboriginal history.
• Wagga Wagga – About two hours northeast, Wagga offers the Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens, the Riverina’s best cafés, and the National Art Glass Gallery.

Please check official sources for current details.