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.

History

On the banks of the Lachlan River, Hillston, settled in 1863, is a town with a colourful history, that has been given new life by an extensive irrigation system. Now a major fruit and vegetable producing region, its orchards and citrus groves stand in stark contrast to their parched surroundings. Here you can experience some of the beauty of the Outback, including wildflowers and majestic river red gums.

Visit

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.

• Lake Woorabinda

  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.

• Parks & Recreation

  Enjoy a relaxing break at the John Fensom Explorers Park precinct. This area includes the Lake Woorabinda Walking Track, the Hillston Swimming Pool Complex (a 25-metre pool with children’s water features), a covered play area, covered BBQ area, toilets, skate park and fitness equipment.

  Hillston has an 18 hole sandgreen golf course located alongside the Lachlan River which welcomes locals and visitors alike.

• John Fensom Explorers Park

In 2022 the Hillston Lions Club made an application to plant a number of trees in the John Fensom Lions Explorer Park under the Queen’s Jubilee Tree Planting Grant sponsored by the Commonwealth Government.

After careful consideration and consultation the Lions Club chose Acer feemannii (‘Autumn Blaze’ Maples) due to their stunning red foliage and less invasive nature than other options.

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.

Hillston Lions Club was greatly assisted by the Hillston Town Gardening staff with special mention made to Rowan Johnston, Tom Corry, Christian Wallace, Andrew Widdison and Matthew Bray who provided advice on the species of tree to be planted, helped to plant the trees and who will assist us in caring for the trees into the future.

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 and Paddy Melons Gallery and Visitor Information Centre

The Red Dust and 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.

• Town Art by the HCAC

Members of the Hillston Creative Arts Council have taken to painting Hillston’s rich history, which can be seen as you travel around the township.

A large sepia mural is located on the side wall of Rose’s IGA Supermarket, depicting the streetscape of Hillston in the late 1800s.
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’ located at Hughie Cameron Park is 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.

• 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.

Follow the heritage markers along High Street and learn of Hillston’s colourful and exciting history, including several heritage buildings and a war memorial, visit the history room in the WG Parker Memorial Library to research your family tree or book in to visit the Hillston Museum.