Go Wild in Wedderburn
With Dharawal National Park right on its doorstep, Wedderburn is a suburb surrounded by an impressive landscape of rugged bushland, sandstone formations and pristine waterways, as well as being home to a significant population of koalas. On the traditional lands of the Dharawal People, a day exploring offers an unexpected cultural gem and walking tracks leading to hidden rock pools, all the makings of an adventurous day out.
Wedderburn 
Minerva Pool walking track, Dharawal National Park 
Wat Buddhalavarn, Wedderburn
On your way to Wedderburn, start at St Helens Park Bakery & Cafe for your morning coffee, a family-owned local institution. Order a Macchina Coffee Roasters coffee and check out the cabinets full of handmade pies, cakes and tarts, including classic favourites such as neenish tarts and hedgehog slice. Grab some for your day out.
Minerva Pool walking track, Dharawal National Park 
St Helens Park Bakery & Cafe 
Wedderburn
From the bakery, take Wedderburn Road and let the adventure begin. The winding road takes you into and through a scenic gorge, crossing a tributary of the Georges River then up into the Wedderburn Plain. Once known for its peach orchards, the road still winds past pockets of farmland, including Matador Truffles. During truffle season, keep an eye out for their truffle hunting experiences, a uniquely fun local activity.
Nestled within this landscape is Wat Buddhalavarn, a Buddhist monastery and meditation centre. As you approach the SIMMA building, its traditional Laotian design is striking, with golden motifs, Naga sculptures and intricate details. Take some time to explore the grounds and chat with the friendly volunteers on site. With vibrant festivals held throughout the year, it’s worth planning your visit around one of these celebrations.
Wat Buddhalavarn, Wedderburn 
Wat Buddhalavarn, Wedderburn 
Wat Buddhalavarn, Wedderburn
Next, it’s time to head into the Australian bush. Wedderburn provides one of three entrances into the ruggedly beautiful Dharawal National Park. Spanning over 6,500 hectares, it’s a place of waterfalls, woodlands and rockpools, with an incredible diversity of wildlife and ancient Aboriginal sites. Before setting off, be sure to make all the necessary preparations, including letting someone know where you are headed. If in doubt check on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website to ensure you make the most of your day.
Minerva Pool walking track, Dharawal National Park 
Minerva Pool walking track, Dharawal National Park 
Minerva Pool, Dharawal National Park
At the car park on Victoria Road, you’ll find walking options to suit different abilities, from the easier O’Hares Creek lookout track to the medium-grade Minerva Pool track and more challenging Jingga track. There’s also the option to bike on the 10B cycling trail.
WEST opted for the Minerva Pool track, winding through bushland filled with wildflowers in bloom. This is something of a local hidden gem that has become increasingly popular. There are trees that look like they’ve wandered straight out of a Big Friendly Giant book, while constant birdsong fills the air. Arriving at the lookout over Minerva Pool, the view feels magical, with a small waterfall cascading into the pristine waterhole below. Follow the track down to the water’s edge and you’ll find a serene place to pause and listen to the sounds of nature. Minerva Pool is a sacred Dharawal women’s place, with women and children invited into the waters. As you walk back to your car, take it slow and enjoy seeing your surroundings from a different perspective.
Minerva Pool, Dharawal National Park 
Minerva Pool, Dharawal National Park 
Minerva Pool, Dharawal National Park
For lunch, visit St Helen’s Park Fish & Chips for a dose of old-school hospitality. They serve chunky burgers, fish and chips, seafood salads and more, along with a helping of friendly banter. And don’t leave without trying the banana or pineapple fritters - it’s a hit of nostalgia worth ordering. Nature, culture, warm hospitality and a little adventure - Wedderburn certainly knows how to fill a day. All that’s left to do is pick a date, hit the road and see where it takes you.
Wedderburn 
St Helen's Park Fish & Chips 
Wat Buddhalavarn, Wedderburn
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