Taree

Nestled on the banks of the Manning River, Taree is the bustling heart of the Manning Valley, offering a relaxed country-town vibe with a rich timber and dairy history. It's a perfect pit-stop on the drive between Sydney and Brisbane, where you can soak up local culture, explore river walks, and taste fresh produce from the surrounding farms.

Highlights & What to See

• Manning River: Stroll along the riverbank walkways, hire a kayak, or join a river cruise to spot wildlife and enjoy the serene water views.
• Old Taree Courthouse: A heritage-listed building dating from 1890, now home to the Manning Valley Historical Society museum – a fascinating glimpse into early settler life.
• Manning Entertainment Centre: Catch a show or concert at this modern venue that hosts everything from theatre to live music.
• Queen Elizabeth II Park: A leafy riverside park with picnic spots, playgrounds, and a war memorial – ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
• Local Markets: Browse the Taree Markets (held on the third Saturday of the month) for artisan goods, fresh produce, and vintage treasures.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers spend half a day to a full day in Taree, using it as a convenient stopover. If you're self-driving, allow two hours to explore the town centre and riverfront, plus extra time for a meal at a local café or a visit to the historical museum. For a more leisurely pace, consider an overnight stay to enjoy sunset by the river and a morning coffee before continuing your journey.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Old Bar: A laid-back coastal village with a stunning patrolled beach and the Old Bar Reserve – perfect for swimming, fishing, and coastal walks (15 minutes east).
• Hallidays Point: Home to the popular Redhead Beach and the Diamond Beach Golf Course, ideal for a beach day or a round of golf (20 minutes southeast).
• Wingham: A charming historic village with the Wingham Museum, antique shops, and the beautiful Wingham Brush – a remnant of subtropical rainforest (20 minutes north).
• Forster-Tuncurry: A twin-town destination on the Great Lakes, offering stunning beaches, dolphin cruises, and the Booti Booti National Park (40 minutes south).
• Port Macquarie: A vibrant coastal city known for its koala hospital, lighthouse, and the Coastal Walk – about an hour’s drive north along the Pacific Highway.

Please check official sources for current details.