Bourke: Outback stories on the Darling River

Bourke brings together stories of the Australian Outback and the history of the Darling River. Cultural sites, art and a riverbank that tells of life in the former port give the town different facets. When planning a trip, you can choose your own focus, from historical themes and art to activities in Central Park.

Outback stories and local history

The Back O' Bourke Information and Exhibition Centre uses interactive installations and striking screen displays to draw visitors into stories about the Australian Outback. Topics include early expeditions, poets, local bushmen, pastoralism, Outback legends and conflicts. The centre is set in a native garden of river red gums on the banks of the Darling River, so the landscapes featured in the stories and the river are also part of the setting.

In the historic old section of Bourke Cemetery, the graves of Afghan cameleers lie beside a corrugated-iron mosque. It is considered one of Australia’s oldest places of Muslim worship. St Ignatius Catholic Church tells another chapter of the town’s history: it opened in 1874 and is the oldest documented building in Bourke. Both places reveal different aspects of history, from religious presence to Bourke’s older architecture.

Technology and sporting history have their own landmarks, too. The Crossley Engine in Bourke is an oil-fired stationary engine manufactured by Crossley Brothers in 1923. The Percy Hobson Mural on the Bourke water tank honours Percy Hobson, a Commonwealth Games gold medallist from Bourke. Bourke Historic Wharf, in turn, connects the town’s former port life with its present-day riverside setting: once the largest inland port on the Darling River, it is now a peaceful place to look out over the river.

Art, crafts and activities

The Bourke Aboriginal Art Gallery showcases works by local Aboriginal artists from Bourke. In their painting and carving, the artists combine traditional and modern techniques. The Bourke Men's Shed focuses on pens made from local wood, which are sold to visitors and locals. Together, the gallery and woodworking offer two different ways to experience local art and creativity. If specific exhibition or sales details matter for your plans, check in advance for the latest information.

Central Park offers two different ways to get active. Bourke Skate Park is a place for skaters using skateboards, bikes and scooters. The Little Kids Bike Track is designed for young cyclists and scooter riders, and has traffic signs and speed bumps. If these facilities are an important part of your plans, check that they are currently available before visiting.

Those who want to explore Bourke on foot or by car can visit historic buildings. The Maritime Trail can also be explored on foot or by car; information panels along the riverbank explain Bourke’s maritime history. This offers two different ways to explore the town’s past: a look at historic buildings and a maritime perspective centred on the river. Check current track conditions before setting out.

Getting to know Bourke as a destination

When looking for holiday accommodation in Bourke, you can start by deciding what you want to focus on during your trip: culture and local history, the Darling River or the leisure facilities in Central Park. Those who want to combine several of these themes will find in Bourke insights into the history of the Outback, as well as art, crafts and riverside perspectives.

Discover more destinations: Louth, Gumbalie.

Go to the main travel overview: Bourke Shire Council.