Parkes is a town in central New South Wales, home to one of Australia’s most important landmarks – The Dish.
This giant radio telescope is 64 metres wide, and weighs around 1000 tones. In 1969, it helped to broadcast the Apollo 11 moon landing across Australia, and continues to operate today as a tool in world-class astronomical science. The impressive dish and the Parkes Observatory Visitor Centre where it’s found, are must visits.
For more outdoor activities in Parkes, Sculpture Down the Lachlan is an outdoor sculpture trail stretching 100 kilometres from Forbes to Condobolin. Set in the clearing at Nine Mile, visitors to Parkes can visit the bright “amazing” sign, which is surrounded by gum trees on the stock route along the Lauchlan river.
Wiradjuri Amphitheatre is a great spot for history enthusiasts, as an important site to the Wiradjuri people.
important site to the Wiradjuri people. The amphitheatre includes Indigenous artwork from local Wiradjuri artists, scar trees and a bush tucker garden. It’s used for many celebrations each year, including NAIDOC week, and acknowledges the long history of the Wiradjuri nation, who have lived in these lands for more than 40,000 years
Also located in the Bushman’s Hill precinct is the site of one of Parkes’ first gold mines, which operated over 100 years ago. This area is popular with picnickers and couples looking to take a relaxing stroll. With many historic artefacts dotted around the hill, there’s plenty to see here.
Those who love getting out and about can head to Lake Cargelligo to spend the day fishing, kayaking, water skiing and sailing. Or, if you’d prefer to stay on land, the Lachlan Valley Cycling Trail is a 345 kilometre track linking the towns of Forbes, Cowra, Eugowra, Gooloogong, Parkes, and Canowindra. The trail is broken up into seven sections, meaning you can choose how far to travel. While the terrain is mostly flat, there are chances for more experienced riders to test themselves with hills and greater distances. While riding, you will pass through rural areas and bushland, although there’s always the option to stop off at any of the main towns for a bite to eat or an overnight stay.
At the Rotary Peace Precinct, you will discover a tranquil garden dedicated to reflection on world peace. Found within the gardens at the bottom of Memorial Hill, the site includes five intricately carved timber sculptures, each featuring Wiradjuri iconography in celebration of Parkes’ rich Indigenous history.
For the best places to try camping and glamping in Parkes, click here.
