Koorainghat: Forest, Water and Biripi Cultural Landscape

The area around Koorainghat brings together wetlands, forest and Aboriginal heritage with active pursuits on the water and along walking tracks.

Biripi Cultural Landscape and Traces Along the Track

Saltwater Beach and its surroundings form a cultural landscape of significance to the local Aboriginal Biripi people. The park contains several places associated with the Dreamtime; the area is designated as an Aboriginal Place. Those interested in Aboriginal heritage can also see traces along the Five Islands walking track: the route passes scar trees, shell middens and fish traps.

The Five Islands walking track begins at the Saltwater picnic area, crosses Saltwater Gully and continues into Khappinghat Nature Reserve. Saltwater Gully is part of a waterway system along the track that encompasses rainforest, mangroves, salt flats, sedges and wetlands. The combination of the route and its landscape makes this a way to take in both habitats and cultural traces.

Wetlands, Creek and Nature Experiences

Khappinghat Creek borders Saltwater National Park. Its watercourse forms the largest area of undeveloped wetlands and the only estuary system on the mid-north coast of New South Wales that opens and closes naturally. At the creek, you can kayak or canoe through wetlands, mangroves and rainforest in shallow water. The creek is also used for boating and fishing. Check current park notices and local conditions before paddling.

Kiwarrak State Forest also offers different ways to experience the area: the forest is known for its strong koala population. This is a feature of the landscape, but does not guarantee a sighting. For a more active outing, Kiwarrak Mountain Bike Park is located south of Taree in Kiwarrak State Forest. More than 70 kilometres of trails range from beginner level to very challenging routes; the park is suitable for riders of all abilities. This lets you choose a ride to suit your preferred level of challenge.

Nearby, the Headland walking track leads to a whale-watching lookout and has connections to Aboriginal history. Skirmish Downunder, a privately operated business that can be booked by the public, is also located in Kiwarrak State Forest. Check availability for your planned date.

Accommodation and Directions to Kiwarrak Country Retreat

Kiwarrak Country Retreat offers stylish self-contained accommodation on 10 acres. Landscaped gardens, tall Australian eucalyptus trees and lily-covered ponds characterise the property. If a location near the forest and national park is important to you, the retreat offers a specific starting point for your search for holiday accommodation in Koorainghat.

The retreat also offers guests a two-hour private bathhouse experience with a stone sauna, outdoor shower and Japanese-style wooden bathtub. Combining a stay at the accommodation with this private experience is different from an outing to the walking tracks or wetlands nearby. Check accommodation availability before booking.

Access is via the Pacific Highway and the Taree Service Centre exit onto Old Bar Road. After five kilometres, turn right onto the unsealed Half Chain Road, opposite Taree Kennels. Follow it for two kilometres; Kiwarrak is then on the left. Check road conditions and access before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Tallwoods Village, Hallidays Point, Harrington, Wingham, Manning Point, Rainbow Flat, Taree.

Back to the regional travel guide: Greater Taree City Council.