Gravesend
With wide open spaces and endless night skies, Gravesend is the western gateway to the Great Dividing Range and makes a safe and peaceful base for exploring the region.
Originally a pastoral run in the 1850s, Gravesend grew from a fettler’s camp established in 1901 when the Moree to Inverell railway was built. In the 1930s, Gravesend was home to a prickly pear research station, and an early site for the release of cactoblastis that transformed NSW agriculture.
Gravesend has the distinction of being home to two important bridges. The 1900 railway bridge, with two 55 metre spans, had to be imported from England, and is described as one of the oldest and largest steel truss bridges in Australia, manufactured by the firm of Handyside and Co, who are best known as makers of the famous British pillar-box. The 1930 road bridge is an important example of a concrete truss bridge over a major inland river.
With excellent access to the Gwydir River, and plenty of free camping, Gravesend is a friendly base for anyone exploring not only the Gwydir Shire but also our neighboring Moree district, Waa Gorge, Berrigal Creek Aboriginal Area and Bullala National Park, and for fishing and birdwatching.
Accommodation and Services
The Shop Gravesend
49 Railway Parade 0422 444 487
“The Shop” in Gravesend is more than a shop, it is a meeting place and a hub for the local Gravesend community.
Selling a great range of meal options, grocery items, gifts, great coffee, ice cream and much more it is worth a visit to Gravesend just to visit The Shop!
Gravesend Hotel
16 Railway Parade (02) 6729 7005
Counter meals and bar. Free van parking and showers at the rear of the building if you support the pub.
Ezzy’s Crossing Campsite
Off Gwydir Highway – approx 5km east turn left after the road bridge.
A popular site with anglers and bird watchers Ezzy’s Crossing is a self-contained free camping site with bins and picnic shelter located downstream from the road.
Gravesend Recreation Ground
Warialda Street next to Gravesend Public School.
Open, free camping area with plenty of grassy sites, bins, toilets and shelter. All weather access.
Events
Mason Daley Memorial Cod Classic
Held annually on the third weekend in March on the Gwydir River, this memorial fishing competition draws in the anglers from all walks of life. More information can be found on the Gravesend Fishing Club Facebook page.
ANZAC Day Service
Held annually. The parade starts at 8.45am from the Old RSL Club marching down Railway Parade for a 9am service at ANZAC Park. Indulge in morning tea back at the Old RSL Club after the service.
Gravesend 100 Mile Long Lunch
Held biennially in April this event is a major fundraiser for the Gravesend Public School. Held at the Gravesend Recreation Ground, the schools P&C Committee showcases local produce through a three-course meal. Sit back and enjoy the lunch whilst listening to some great entertainment and try your luck in the raffles and maybe even purchase an auction item or two. More information can be found on the Gravesend 100 Mile Long Lunch Facebook page.
Gravesend Campdraft
Held annually in August at the Gravesend Recreation Ground, this event brings competitors from near and far. More information can be found on the Gravesend Rodeo & Campdraft Association Facebook page.
Gravesend Pony Club
Mini Camp is held annually during the winter school holidays and Pony Camp is held annually during the spring school holidays. Both events are held at “Dunrobyn” Gravesend. More information can be found on the Gravesend Pony Club Facebook page.
