Kempsey: Art, History and Walking Trails

In Kempsey, you can shape your stay around cultural history, Aboriginal art and walks along the Macleay River. The Kempsey Museum spans the history of the Macleay Valley through to the present day; public memorials and the exhibition at the Slim Dusty Centre offer different perspectives. There are also two walking trails with different landmarks. You can tailor your plans to your cultural interests or to getting active.

History and Art in Kempsey

The Kempsey Museum in South Kempsey traces the history of the Macleay Valley from before European settlement to the present day. The museum includes a pioneer house furnished with historical objects. The exhibitions also cover Aboriginal history, bootmaking and the timber industry. A broad historical overview sits alongside specific topics in culture and production; the pioneer house adds a distinct historical place to the exhibition.

The Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery in Kempsey offers works by renowned Aboriginal artists for sale. Their work is represented in significant public and private collections. As gallery operations may change, check current visiting arrangements before your visit.

The Barrunbatayi (Dreamtime) Memorial at East Kempsey Cemetery was created in 2006 in collaboration with Thunggutti/Dunghutti Elders and local community groups. At Kempsey Railway Station, a memorial sculpture and plaque commemorate the Stolen Generations. The memorials range from a community-created site to a place of remembrance at the station.

The community-created Corroboree Magic mosaic is also a public art site in Kempsey. It was unveiled at the Westpac building during Reconciliation Week 2021 and created in collaboration with a local artist, Elders and community organisations.

Walking Trails and a Market Day on the Macleay River

Two walking trails offer different routes: the South to East Kempsey Walk follows the riverbank, passes through Riverside Park and connects South Kempsey with East Kempsey. The West Kempsey Walk starts at a car park on Sydney Street in West Kempsey and leads to Wigay Aboriginal Cultural Park. Check trail conditions before setting out, as they may change.

Wigay Aboriginal Cultural Park in Kempsey is known for its natural parkland, local Aboriginal culture and opportunities to learn about traditional foods. Note the park closure notice and check in advance whether a visit is possible.

The Kempsey Riverside Markets are scheduled for the first Saturday of each month at Riverside Park on Eden Street, beside the Macleay River. Check the date before travelling if you want to plan your market visit in advance.

Discover the Slim Dusty Centre

At the Slim Dusty Museum in the Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey, the exhibition showcases objects and images from the Kirkpatrick family’s own archive. Contributions from fans and friends around the world add to the exhibition. The Slim Dusty Centre also offers visitor information and a retail shop. Personal archival material, contributions from others and practical visitor information come together in one place.

First decide which experiences you want to shape your stay, then tailor your search accordingly. This keeps Kempsey as the starting point for your plans without letting any one theme determine your choices.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Horningsea Park, Casino, Pymble, Dignams Creek, Berridale, Gungal, Moss Vale, Upper Colo.

For the broader travel guide: New South Wales.