Discover Wollongbar

Wollongbar can be explored through several distinct themes: public art in the parkland, getting active on a walking and cycling path, and the history of an agricultural institute. There is also a skatepark in Wollongbar District Park and a historic farmhouse now known as Bellowing Bull. This gives you a choice of different interests rather than a one-size-fits-all trip. You can focus on art and local history, include a path between Wollongbar and Alstonville, or explore agriculture and events.

Art and remembrance in the parkland

In Wollongbar District Parkland, Ping Pong Drive-In tells the story of a former drive-in cinema. This playful public art installation draws on the site’s history and transforms it into a place for shared recreation and socialising through table tennis. In this way, the work connects memories of a previous use with an artistic idea centred on enjoying leisure together. Hardwood Poles, a striking wooden sculpture installation, offers a different perspective. Its designs were created by students from Alstonville High School and celebrate local plant species and the natural heritage of the Northern Rivers. The work is also inspired by the region’s Big Scrub rainforest. The two artworks therefore have different focuses: Ping Pong Drive-In recalls the site’s former use, while Hardwood Poles highlights local flora and natural heritage.

Getting active between Wollongbar and Alstonville

Wollongbar District Park includes a skatepark. The Alstonville to Wollongbar Village Link Path offers a different way to get active: this relaxed walking and cycling path connects Alstonville and Wollongbar. Together, they offer different forms of active recreation—a local facility and a path between two towns.

Agriculture and community events

The history of the Wollongbar Primary Industries Institute also gives the area a distinctive theme. In 1894, the institute became New South Wales’ second government agricultural college and experimental farm. This historic role links Wollongbar with agriculture and research. Today, the institute offers a range of events, visits and opportunities for producers and the wider public to get involved. These include community open days, where you can learn more about the institute’s activities and its contribution to the local region. If you’re planning a visit or an event, check the specific dates in advance.

A farmhouse with a culinary history

Built in 1900, the Killarney farmhouse was one of Wollongbar’s original homesteads. The renovated building is now known as Bellowing Bull; for many years, it was a steakhouse. The history of the house adds another dimension to the area’s art and agricultural themes: its longstanding connection with Wollongbar’s food culture.

Choose accommodation to suit your interests

The parkland art and memories of the former drive-in cinema offer a focus on culture and local history; the Link Path combines walking and cycling, while the institute’s activities connect with agriculture and regional outreach. Consider which of these aspects matters most to your stay, and use your priorities to find hotels in Wollongbar.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Springrange, Woodburn, Lake Cathie, Rawdon Vale, Jagumba, Kareela, Sanctuary Point, Joadja.

For the broader travel overview: New South Wales.