Getting here & around

Welcome to Bellingen Shire, a paradise nestled amongst some of the world’s most majestic and precious natural environment. From the World Heritage-listed plateau, through picturesque farmlands, to the spectacular waterways of the coastline, Bellingen Shire is an unspoilt paradise found on the NSW Mid North Coast.

 

Getting here

Bellingen Shire is located approximately halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, on the east coast of Australia.  

The nearest airport is in Coffs Harbour (approximately 25-minute drive). Gold Coast Airport is approximately 3-hour drive, Brisbane Airport is approximately 4 and a half hours drive and Sydney Airport is approximately 5 and a half hours drive. 

The easiest way get around the Bellingen Shire is by car. You can hire a car at any of the above airports.  

Urunga train station is on Pilot Street, approximately 15-minute drive time to Bellingen and a 45-minute drive to Dorrigo. The train service goes between Sydney and Brisbane, with some coach inter-changes. Find out more online here

 

Visitor information 

Waterfall Way Visitor Centre

29-31 Hyde Street, Bellingen

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am – 1pm. 

Visitor information in a shop filled with local arts, crafts and souvenirs. From cards and candles to jewellery and jams, the Visitor Centre proudly stocks 85% of goods produced within the Shire. Come in and speak with the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers.  

Dorrigo Visitor Information Centre

36 Hickory St, Dorrigo

Opening Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 2pm 

The Dorrigo Visitor Information Centre is run by knowledgeable local volunteers who will inform you of must-see attractions. 

Dorrigo Rainforest Centre

142 Dome Road, Dorrigo 

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 9am – 4.30pm 

Tips and advice on planning your visit to Dorrigo National Park, including which walking tracks will best suit you. You can find out about guided tours and check out the park heritage exhibition. The shop offers a range of books, gifts, postcards and souvenirs. Don't forget to take a walk on the elevated boardwalk that takes you above the rainforest canopy.

If you’d like a bite to eat, the award-winning Canopy Café has delicious lunches, gourmet cakes and great coffee. Alternatively, you can enjoy a picnic at the centre’s grassy picnic area, with free electric barbecues. 

Urunga Visitor Information Centre

Giinagay Way, Urunga 

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 2pm. 

The Urunga Visitor Information Centre is located at the Corner of Giinagay Way and Bellingen Street. Here you'll find the Coffs Harbour Trike Tours office where you can book a guided trike tour of the area. Staff will inform you about local attractions, activities, accommodation and events. The Urunga Visitor Information Centre also boasts some beautifully made local furniture and homewares. 

 

Travel safety information 

Where to monitor hazards such as floods and bushfires: 
Traffic, road closures and road safety:
  • Live Traffic NSW– you can also download an app from your phone's App Store 
Water quality:
  • Beach Watch – Check out the water quality of select ocean and river spots 
Tune into local radio: