Taking its name from wool industry pioneers John and Elizabeth Macarthur, the Macarthur region includes parts of the Campbelltown, Camden and Wollondilly Shire LGAs and is steeped in history and culture. The area is on Dharawal People land and is surrounded by fertile agricultural lands. Since European settlement, the area has been used for cow pastures and sheep grazing.
You can start your journey at Macarthur station, which is the last stop along the East Hills line within the Sydney Metropolitan region. The station is situated adjacent to Macarthur Square which is the perfect place to grab a morning coffee. Kulture Kafé and Leaf Café & Co. are both great options.
Next, head to the Western Sydney University Campbelltown Campus on the other side of the train station. Located among the picturesque hills, this stunning campus is home to a Sculpture Walk that truly elevates the university environment. Make your way around eighteen different sculptures created by local artists. Open to the public for free, the walk twists around several ponds making it a perfect picnic location.
The next place you’ll need to visit is the iconic Macarthur Tavern. You’ll be seated among an array of vibrant plants in their spacious outdoor dining area. It’s the perfect place to settle in for a hearty lunch, with the Verandah Bar, Fillipo’s Restaurant, and The Burger Van to choose from. The dining area has been so thoughtfully designed that you’ll feel the vibrant atmosphere of a busy pub, while also having your own space.
The Macarthur region is bursting with history and culture. Campbelltown City Council has created a self-guided Heritage and Cultural Walk which explores the area’s historic buildings, making for a fascinating tour of some of Australia’s oldest streets.
Pick up your guide booklet at Quondong, originally built as St Patrick’s School - Australia’s first Catholic School. Restored by 1997, this quaint building is now home to the Campbelltown Visitor Information Centre and comprises of a visitor room and three display rooms including a replica school classroom. Here you’ll learn about the area’s history and understand the significance of Macarthur to Australia as we know it today.
Follow the walk and visit as many cultural sites as you wish, but make sure to visit the Campbelltown Arts Precinct and the site of The Billabong Parklands Project just across the road. Funded by all three levels of government under the Western Sydney Liveability Program, the Campbelltown Billabong Parklands will be a landmark recreation facility in Sydney.
Covering four hectares, the fully parkland will boast a 1600m2 swimming lagoon interconnected with a smaller children’s pool, cascades and streams and a zero-depth splash play area as well as, amenities, and plenty of open space. The landscape design features are based on the local Dharawal National Park and Georges River to reflect the importance of the region’s local environment and Aboriginal culture.
Exciting state-of-the-art projects like these are continuing to establish Western Sydney as a destination worth taking the time to explore.
This article was proudly sponsored by Campbelltown City Council