Travelling along the M7 Motorway, striking art installations emerge from the landscape. Large, distinguished sculptures, a towering artwork soaring skywards, and an infantry of bronze horses that are impossible to miss. What you discover are First Nations artworks sharing deeply embedded stories, inviting you to learn, reflect and connect with local Dharug culture.

For years, the Southern Highlands village of Burradoo has flown mostly under the radar. Known for its towering tree-lined streets and grand estates established by wealthy pioneers, it has become more widely known thanks to the immensely popular Burradoo Park Farm. On the land of the Gundungurra and Dharawal people, Burradoo has become a go-to destination.

What better day out, than one combining good food, culture, the great outdoors and a healthy dose of exercise. For a different kind of adventure, join WEST as we put pedal to the metal and explore the ‘Emu Trail’, the 16km M12 shared user path. Integrating local Dharug First Nations culture and storytelling into the surrounding landscape, this is a day of discovery that will have your curiosity levels heightened with all there is to take in.

Surrounded by scenic beauty in the cool-climate region of the Southern Highlands, lies the historic village of Sutton Forest. Located on Gundungurra and Dharawal land, it is one of the earliest colonial settlements outside of Sydney. Located on Gundungurra and Dharawal land, it is one of the earliest colonial settlements outside of Sydney. It is also home to Hillview Estate, the former country residence of NSW Governors from 1882 to 1958, now acquired by The King’s Foundation

If ever there was a suburb known as a foodie haven, then Earlwood would be right up there. Known for its melting pot of cuisines, riverside nature trails and long-standing Greek community, Earlwood, on Dharug land, is a day made for a foodie adventure.

For a day out that feels a world away, one immersed in nature, curious discoveries and local life, Oakdale and the Burragorang State Conservation Area are the ideal destinations. Within the Wollondilly Shire and on the traditional lands of the Dharawal and Gundungurra people, the Burragorang Lookout is found here, one of the most spectacular lookout spots in New South Wales.

Turning off the Camden Bypass and following the curves of Burragorang Road, you’ll soon arrive in the cosy village of The Oaks. Coined by English botanist George Caley for the she-oaks in the area, it is one of the oldest settled areas in the Macarthur region, established in the 1820s. Located on the traditional lands of the Dharawal and Gundungurra people, The Oaks is a suburb where you will find heritage and country charm in abundance.

Mount Pritchard, on the traditional lands of the Cabrogal of the Darug Nation, is a leafy suburb where community is king. Local businesses, parks and great food bring people together, alongside Mounties, a much-loved local institution.

There are moments of magnitude that mark the beginning of something new. Not simply a launch, but the gathering of people, ideas, stories and communities, connected by a shared belief in discovery and connection. On Tuesday 26th May, inside the historic surroundings of NSW Parliament, The WEST Journal proudly launched The WEST Journal App - a global discovery platform built with purpose, designed to transform the way people explore the world around them.

At its core, The WEST Journal App makes discovery easier, more human, and more deeply connected to Country and to place. Rather than searching across multiple platforms, WEST centralises everything into a single, intuitive space. It’s where you can find, save, plan and share everything you see and love - turning inspiration into real-life plans.

Carlingford is a suburb full of delight and surprises, from a park with roaring animal sculptures, to bushland walking trails and a wide variety of international cuisine.

Rosehill is best known for the iconic Rosehill Gardens Racecourse, a cornerstone of Australian horse racing since 1885. Home to the world-famous Golden Slipper, Phar Lap’s first win in 1929, and even NSW’s first powered flights by Harry Houdini in 1910, the suburb is steeped in history. Beyond the track, on the traditional lands of the Dharug people, Rosehill also features Elizabeth Farm, Australia’s oldest surviving European homestead, offering a rich glimpse into the nation

Founder of The Modern Desi Co, Bhavna Kalra Shivalkar, knows a thing or two about Indian cuisine – including very good butter chicken. A Mumbai-born, Sydney-based food entrepreneur with a passion for cultural immersion, she set out in The Hills Shire, on Dharug land, to uncover three of her favourite butter chicken dishes and share her insider picks with you.

Standing proudly at the interchange of the newly opened Warami Drive / M12 Motorway, is a striking piece of architecture, and a powerful Welcome to Country, The Great Emu in the Sky. Soaring 30 metres high, it is a sculpture sharing the Dharug story of the Great Emu constellation, of how Mariong, the Emu and Mother Spirit, became the Milky Way.

Mount Victoria is one of those magic places you stumble upon, full of quaint historic buildings and loaded with quintessential charm. Associated with heavyweight names such as John F.Kennedy and John Fairfax, Mount Victoria, resting on the traditional lands of the Dharug and Gundungurra peoples, is a gem ready to be discovered.

The Lunar New Year, celebrated by millions around the world, is a special time of the year, embracing cultural traditions, family reunions, and hopes for good fortune in the coming year. The Lunar New Year in 2026 farewells the introspective and intuitive Year of the Snake, and welcomes in the dynamic and energetic Year of the Horse. In many cultures, the Year of the Horse brings with it vibrant and fiery energy, symbolizing adventure, vitality, and momentum.

For a suburb considered mid-size, there is a surprising amount of fun packed in to experience in Glenwood. From bargain shopping to historical sightseeing, outdoor exploration and food, glorious food. Residing on Dharug land, a day out in makes for a feel-good outing for your next local adventure.

Tucked into the agricultural countryside near the township of Camden lies Belgenny Farm, home to Australia’s oldest collection of colonial farm buildings. Located on the traditional lands of the Dharawal people, this State Heritage Listed site is recognised as the birthplace of the Australian wool, dairy, wine, and horticulture industries, providing a remarkable window into Australia’s Colonial agricultural past.

Within the evergreen The Hills Shire, you will find The Gables, a community neighbourhood designed with families and green spaces in mind. From imaginative playgrounds to quality sports grounds and amenities, it’s an inviting place to spend a day outdoors. Located on Dharug land, join WEST as we take you on a day of exploring.

Bordering the Parramatta River, Rydalmere is a suburb known for its industrial precinct and relaxed, riverside lifestyle. The Burramattagal Clan of the Dharug people are the original custodians of this land, relying on the river for food such as eels and fish. Today, Rydalmere’s peaceful river walk, ferry connections and residential feel make it a lovely place to visit.