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At the top of the Moonbi ranges, where the
Oxley Highway from Port Macquarie meets the New England Highway,
nestled on the banks of the McDonald River, sits the village of
Bendemeer.
First settled around the 1830’s it was
known then as the “Gateway to New England” there being no other
way of reaching the Tablelands. Some of the original buildings
are in still in use and a historic walk map can be obtained from
the Bowery Inn. Today, many travellers stop in the park by the
river for a picnic or to try a spot of trout fishing. At
sunrise and sunset you may glimpse the platypus under the old
bridge.
The active Community Development
Association recently cleared a pathway and picnic areas along
the bank of the river for people to enjoy the tranquillity and
birdlife.
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At one time there were many inns and hotels
in our village. The only hotel now operating is the
Bendemeer
Pub, a favourite destination for a weekend break. Other
accommodation around Bendemeer is Farm Cottage B&B, Arlemont
farmstay and the Riverside Caravan Park, The Bowery Inn now
houses the Bendemeer Craft Co-operative and along with the
craft, provides morning and afternoon teas and light lunches.
Each year in Bendemeer the ABCRA rodeo, the
garden show and art show are held. Every three years the Grey
Fergie Tractor Muster is celebrated. This year the Glen Innes
Pipe Band led the parade of Fergie Tractors down the main
street, a spectacular sight!
Twelve minutes north of Bendemeer is
Banalasta Visitor Centre, with a cellar door, lavender and
eucalyptus products.
You can join up to the Fossickers Way by
taking the Halls Creek Road to Manilla. Interesting geological
strata can be seen in the many cuttings along the way.
Bendemeer is a picturesque and interesting little
community.
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