Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie is a coastal city situated in New South Wales on the Mid North coast. It is actually the fastest growing city in the state and in 2006 had a population of 68,429 which was 9.5% more than in 2001. Naturally the town has numerous splendid beaches including North Shore, Shelly Beach and Town Beach. Cruises can be taken up the Hastings River where whales and dolphins can often be spotted playing enthusiastically in the azure waters off the coast.

As one of the first settlements outside of Sydney, Port Macquarie is a very historical area with many heritage buildings that can be traced back to the convict days. It is also a very artistic city with nearly 100 various arts and culture groups operating in the region. Throughout the year, the city enjoys many performances, exhibitions and activities of a culturally and creatively diverse nature.