Located on the banks of the Lachlan River, Hillston is the only town within the Carrathool Shire Local Government Area. Approx. 6 hrs north of Melbourne, 4 ½ hrs south of Bourke and just 1½ hours north of Griffith.
Located on the main street are banks, cafes, supermarket, newsagency, pharmacy, pubs, ex-servicemen’s club, speciality shops and a local art gallery incl. Visitor Information Centre. There is also a swinging bridge, walking trails, skate park, fitness area and swimming pool.
Electronic Vehicle Charging
Electronic Vehicle Chargers are now available in the Hillston Library Carpark at 175 High Street Hillston. The chargers were installed in October 2024 and were made possible by grant funding from the NSW Government under the EV Destination Charging Grants Scheme. To use the Hillston Library EV Chargers simply download the Exploren App and scan the QR code on the charger.
Visitors and Travellers can enjoy the majestic views of the Lachlan River which meanders its way through the middle of town, take a stroll over the newly refurbished Swing Bridge at the Hughie Cameron Park for a closer look and enjoy Councils newly constructed 1.2km riverside walking trail in Desatholon Park.
There are many reserves located along the Lachlan River which allow access for fishing and camping, please remember to take your rubbish with you so everyone can enjoy our natural environment.
Hillston Art Trail
Collect a brochure from the Red Dust & Paddy Melons Community Gallery to guide you around Hillston’s emerging Art Trail and don’t miss the opportunity to view our new water tower mural completed in 2024 by artist Krimsone located Cnr Aiden and High Street, a new sight to see on the Australian Silo Art Trail.
Along the Art Trail you can also view some of Hillston’s rich history, painted by members of the Hillston Creative Arts Council. A large sepia mural is located on the side wall of Rose’s IGA Supermarket, depicting the streetscape of Hillston in the late 1800s and the Hillston and District Map Shelter, painted by the late Mrs Beryl Robertson, stands on the lawns in front of the Ex-Servicemen’s Club. The hand painted map features the diverse agricultural enterprises of the Hillston district, sporting facilities and points of interest within Hillston.
‘Emu Antics’ is another popular photo opportunity, located at Hughie Cameron Park the emus form part of the Outdoor Riverina Art Trail. This project was completed by HCAC in 2019 and made possible by a major grant from the Country Arts Support Program (CASP) overseen by Regional Arts NSW and South West Arts.
Lake Woorabinda Precinct
The man-made Lake Woorabinda is an aquatic playground, when river conditions allow it to be filled, with water skiing during the summer and a walking track around the perimeter showcasing the abundance of birdlife including pelicans, swans, and cockatoos.
The Lake Woorabinda Precinct is also home to the Hillston Swimming Pool and John Fensom Lions Explorer Park.
The John Fensom Lions Explorer Park features a BBQ and seating area, toilets, children’s play equipment, a skate park and fitness park.
In 2022 the Hillston Lions Club made an application to plant a number of trees in the park under the Queen’s Jubilee Tree Planting Grant sponsored by the Commonwealth Government. The trees were planted in late June and on 5 December 2022 a dedication event was held at the site. In attendance were Helen Dalton MP, First Vice-District Governor 201N4 Lion Geoff Freudenstein, a number of Councillors from the Carrathool Shire and invited members of the community.
By planting these trees, Hillston Lions Club hope we will have a lasting tribute to Her Majesty in our community.
Hillston Cotton Gin
The Hillston Cotton Gin provides visitors with an insight into the cotton industry when operating. The Gin is located 15 kilometres from Hillston on the Roto Road. Operating on a seasonal basis the Gin processes on average 70 000 bales per year and services both the Lachlan and Murrumbidgee valleys.
Contact the Gin on (02) 6967 2951 for visiting hours.
Red Dust & Paddy Melons Gallery and Visitor Information Centre
The Red Dust & Paddy Melons Gallery and Visitors Centre located in the main street, showcases the paintings, sculptures and craft work of the Hillston Creative Arts Council (HCAC). Much of it has been inspired by the unique flora, fauna and scenery of the area. The Gallery is a level three accredited visitor’s centre, and provides information on Hillston and the surrounding district.
The Gallery is open daily from 9.30am, for more information call (02) 6967 1594 or email reddustgallery@yahoo.com.au.
Hillston Museum
Step back in time at the Hillston Museum, located on the Kidman Way. The Museum is run by the Hillston Historical Society, and houses a fascinating collection of machinery, household goods and historic displays. It also features a restored late 19th Century homestead.
The Hillston museum is open by appointment only to book please call 02 6967 2305 or 0402 169 730.
Willandra National Park and Historic Homestead
Willandra National Park is situated 64kms North West of Hillston. The Park features the historical Willandra Homestead, Woolshed and Ram Shed. Willandra National Park has been returned to its natural state and is a great place to view native flora and fauna. Dry weather access only, prior to visiting check current road conditions and weather reports.
Hillston Golf Course
Hillston has an 18 hole sandgreen golf course located alongside the Lachlan River which welcomes locals and visitors alike. Green fees apply and can be paid vis eftpos at the clubhouse. Find out more about the upcoming events at the Golf Club on the Hillston Golf Club Facebook Page.