Condobolin NSW

After leaving Nyngan, Unshackled Adventures decided to take the road less travelled in search of the Geographical Centre of New South Wales.

The centre point is marked by a stone cairn located roughly 33–42 km west-north-west of Tottenham in the Bogan Shire. Built from local mine slag, the simple but symbolic monument marks the calculated centre of the state and stands quietly among the vast open plains. Reaching it requires travelling along rugged, dusty backroads — but the journey is all part of the adventure and well worth the effort.

From this remote centre point, we continued our dusty drive onward to Condobolin, ready for the next chapter of the journey.

Condobolin is a vibrant country town in Central West NSW, situated on the banks of the Lachlan River and often considered a gateway to the outback. Established in the 19th century as a river-crossing settlement, the town has grown into a welcoming rural hub known for its strong agricultural roots, rich Aboriginal heritage, and a few uniquely Australian attractions.

One of the highlights of visiting Condobolin is Gum Bend Lake, where we chose to set up camp. For a donation-based campground, this spot truly has it all — spacious grassy sites, toilets and hot showers, rubbish facilities, and the lake right on your doorstep. During our stay we enjoyed spectacular sunsets over the water, refreshing swims, peaceful walks, and bike rides around the lake’s scenic foreshore.

Fun fact: Gum Bend Lake is actually a man-made lake. It officially opened on 22 October 1988 as part of Australia’s Bicentenary celebrations. Funded by the NSW Bicentennial Council and Lachlan Shire Council, the lake was designed as both a recreational waterway and a major tourism asset for the region — and today it remains one of Condobolin’s most popular outdoor spaces for water skiing, fishing, birdwatching and relaxing by the water.

The township of Condobolin blends agricultural heritage with outback charm. The surrounding farmland is dominated by dryland cropping and livestock operations typical of low-rainfall regions. Key production includes wheat, barley, canola, pulses, wool, sheep and cattle, with emerging industries such as goat meat production.

One of Condobolin’s most famous attractions is “Utes in the Paddock.” Located near the Visitor Information Centre, this quirky art installation features a collection of Holden utes standing proudly in a paddock — each one transformed into a colourful artwork by renowned Australian artists.

The idea for the installation began after local residents Graham and Jana Pickles visited the famous Cadillac Ranch along Route 66 in Texas. Inspired by the popularity of that roadside attraction, they imagined an Australian version celebrating rural life. The concept quickly gained momentum and in August 2007 the project began. Many of the utes were donated by locals who caught the “utes bug,” while some of Australia’s most talented outback artists generously contributed their time and creativity to paint them.

The Lachlan River flows directly through Condobolin, and just west of town sits a small weir that marks the end point of the Forbes-to-Condobolin section of the river. The river is popular with locals and visitors alike for fishing, kayaking, camping and water skiing.

While staying at Gum Bend, we took advantage of the fantastic bike trail that runs from the lake directly into town. Exploring Condobolin by bike was a great way to take in the laid-back atmosphere and see more of the surrounding landscape. One morning we set out on a bike ride beginning with a lap of Gum Bend Lake before following the trail into town. After crossing the Lachlan River bridge, we continued along a riverside path all the way to the Visitor Information Centre and the “Utes in the Paddock” display. And of course, as with any good bike ride, we made sure to stop at a local café for a well-earned latte before riding back to camp.

Another unexpected highlight of our stay was Mount Tilga. This lesser-known attraction involves a short but steep climb, but the effort is rewarded with incredible 360-degree views over Condobolin and the surrounding plains — a fantastic vantage point to appreciate just how vast this landscape really is.

Condobolin itself began as a drovers’ crossing and grew rapidly following land subdivision in the 1880s. By 1898 it had become an important railway hub supporting the region’s expanding agricultural industry. Today the town still proudly reflects its pioneer heritage, with several historic buildings lining the streets. One notable example is the Royal Hotel. After being sold to Tooheys Brewery in 1938, the original hotel was demolished and rebuilt in 1939, resulting in the distinctive Art Deco building that still stands today.

Condobolin also sits on the traditional lands of the Wiradjuri people, and the area maintains strong cultural connections to its Indigenous heritage. The town is home to the Wiradjuri Study Centre, established to promote understanding and appreciation of Wiradjuri culture. The centre provides a hub for training, cultural awareness, heritage preservation, and community connection, and can be visited by appointment.

Unshackled Adventures thoroughly enjoyed our time in “Condo,” as the locals affectionately call it. It’s a relaxed and authentic country town with welcoming people, beautiful open landscapes, and plenty to explore — a place that deserves a spot on any Central West NSW travel itinerary.

** Tip: For the best viewing experience, click the YouTube link in the bottom left corner of the video to watch in higher clarity.