ACTIVITIES DUNGOG

Chichester Dam was constructed between 1917 and 1926 and is a minor concrete gravity dam, upstream of Dungog, in the Hunter Region. One of the Hunter's most important freshwater storage facilities contributing about 35 per cent of the Lower Hunter's potable water supply. The dam wall is 254 metres long and 43 metres high and is anchored to the bedrock below the wall by 93 stressed tendons. Located at the top of the Williams River catchment the dam replaced the Walka Water Works at Maitland, which was unable to meet the water demands of a growing industrial region. The catchment for Chichester Dam is largely within the Barrington Tops National Park, and as a result it is one of the most pristine catchments in Australia. No dogs are allowed so leave the pooch at home. All the roads within the site are sealed and can be accessed by coaches.

Picturesque Chichester State Forest is located in the Lower Barrington Tops and offers free picnic and camping grounds, the majority located near creeks/rivers. Telegherry, Frying Pan, Currawong and Coachwood camping areas are located in the lush south-eastern side of the forest, best accessed from Dungog. White Rock, Old Camp and Pademelon Park are camping areas on the south-western side of the forest, best accessed from Gresford. Allyn River Forest Park, also in this area, is a great place for a picnic whilst the famous Ladies Well swimming hole is within a short distance of camping areas. Dogs are permitted on leads, as is bushwalking, swimming, trail-bike and four-wheel driving. Temperatures vary considerably between the foothills (170 metres) and the Barrington Plateau (1,577 metres). Night temperatures regularly drop below zero from June to November. Campers are advised to pack cold/wet weather gear, and take their own fresh drinking water.

Country Elegance Gardens and Gifts has an extensive range of garden centre lines, seedlings and plant care products. The country charm will captivate you. They sell outdoor and indoor pots, garden statues, gift vouchers, gold fish, soil improvement products, trailer hire, large selection of potting mix, mulches and fertilisers, and off street parking. A variety of flowers are on display and you can create your own style. With the Country Elegance strong sense of imagination they will ensure that your wedding is a wonderful lifetime memory and an exciting reflection of your own personality and needs. Call Sue and make an appointment to discuss your wedding flower needs. Great new garden beds, ready to go and they are a great height, you don't ever need to bend over in your vegie patch again. Buy your loved one or anyone a special gift or flowers or just something for the garden.

Wednesday night Twilight Bowls is fun for everyone. Beginners are always welcome. Come along on Wednesday nights and give bowls a go from 6pm after their winter recess. Bowls is expected to start back early in September. Wednesday is called the Roll and Giggle night. While at the club enjoy fresh modern cuisine from the Chinese Restaurant catering for the whole family at friendly prices. Open five days a week for lunch and six nights a week for dinner. Raffles are held each Friday and Sunday night commencing around 6pm with fresh meat, produce and vouchers to supporting business houses to be won, as well as three chances at the Spinning Wheel and the Members' Badge Draw around 8pm. The Dungog Bowlo has a recreational vehicle (RV) friendly car park with five powered/watered sites for overnight visitors, and bus groups are always welcome at the club.

Dungog RSL Club - where you are always welcome. Dungog is home to cricketer Doug Walters and you can enjoy a drink at the Doug Walters Bar. Fully air-conditioned with club facilities including TAB, Keno, Fox sport, weekly Housie and snooker tables. Enjoy a meal in the relaxing restaurant where you will receive country hospitably and great country prices. Ideal for the whole family or a special occasion. For a fine dining experience in Dungog, why not come along and try the exquisite food at the Top Tea House Restaurant. A mix of Asian and Australian styles, they aim to tantalise your tastebuds with flavours. Call to book your table or function. Open six days a week for lunch and dinner (closed on Tuesdays).

Dungog Fine Arts and Antiques is located in the heart of town. They cater for all your needs of gift ware from the very delicate to more interesting items, fine arts and antiques from early years to the modern day, stylish furniture and exclusive homewares. They offer handmade fine quilts, linen and clothes for young children, metal and cast iron items and Dungog memorabilia.

The Dungog Historical Society was formed in 1963 and since 1968 has operated a museum in the heritage-listed former School of Arts building. The purpose of the museum is the collecting, preserving and interpreting of local heritage for everyone. The society aims to promote local history - including family history and the museum collection - to the local community and the general public. They can assistance with research enquiries in person or by correspondence. The collection reflects the area's rural history, including dairying, the timber industry, and local manufacturing including items from Wade's Cornflour Mill Dungog. Domestic items include household items and a photographic collection. Items that grandmother used for the daily running of the house, dentist equipment for pulling teeth, medical items, known Dungog citizen's stories, and history. Horse drawn carts and buggies and shop items are also on display. There are guided tours of the museum. Bookings essential.

The James Theatre was once the social hub of Dungog, not only for its film screenings, but its balls and dances, catered for by the Wattle Club ladies. The Theatre fell on hard times and fell into disrepair until it was purchased by the Dungog Shire Council in 1979 to provide a large function centre for the community. Cinema screenings were continued during the 1980s and 90s and until 2007 by a dedicated Ken Reeve, in spite of the increasing challenges posed by television and videos. Since then the community has worked to keep the Theatre building operational for films, live performances and functions. The James Theatre is available for hire for film, music or dramatic events as well as weddings, parties, dances, educational uses and meetings. Events happening throughout the year.

Bluegums Cabins is is the perfect getaway. Set in the foothills of the World Heritage Listed Barrington Tops National Park, adjacent to Chichester Dam, it is a perfect setting to unwind and revive amongst 180 acres of bush with three dams, a salt-water swimming pool and tennis court within the Barrington Wilderness Estate which you are welcome to explore and enjoy. There are four beautiful cabins to choose from, all with wooden floors, double spa bath, log fire, air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen and a barbecue with all the necessities including candles, champagne glasses and coffee plunger. The wildlife is amazing with regular visiting wallabies, pademelons and beautiful birds. At Bluegums Cabins they have a simple philosophy which is to ensure their visitors leave more relaxed than when they arrived. Your hosts strive to provide accommodation and a service level which will entice you back and will hopefully recommend to friends....