Explore A Day in the Macleay

Explore - A Day in the Macleay with Port Bus to the Macleay. Thursday 7th August 2025

Today, we take a guided tour of Trial Bay Gaol, soaking up the history and the amazing coastal views surrounding it in Arakoon National Park. The gaol opened in 1886, after 13 years of construction. It must have been a strange feeling building a prison in such a beautiful setting. The prison labourers were there to construct a breakwater to make Trial Bay a safe harbour between Sydney and Brisbane. Unfortunately, the scheme failed, however, you’ll still be able to see the remains of the breakwater from the guard tower lookout. During World War I, the gaol became an internment camp for people of German descent who were feared to be enemy sympathisers.

Come along on this 45-minute tour of Smoky Cape Lighthouse.

On meeting our ranger at the lighthouse door, we'll be given exclusive guided access to ascend this magnificent structure of NSW maritime history.

Inside the lighthouse, you'll navigate steep, narrow steps and a ladder to access the balcony and light room. Our ranger will share stories of the lighthouse, tailored to suit our group.

Please wear enclosed, flat and sturdy footwear.

Nestled on the banks of the Mackley River, Netherby House itself is often referred to as “the grandest house in Kempsey”.

It is a Heritage 1922 Bijoux style and is rated 4 stars by NRMA. Netherby House was featured in the Sydney Morning Herald’s Good Food Guide for 2009-2010. The historic house boasts four elegant bedrooms, all with queen-sized beds.

Highlights:

Trial Bay Gaol, Smokey Cape Lighthouse, The Pantry at Netherby House

Inclusions:

Return air-conditioned coach transport, H20, tours, entries, lunch (choice of fish or steak), sweets (Devonshire tea), plus tea and or coffee. (You won’t need dinner tonight!)

Itinerary:

Departing the Coach Terminal around 8:45, we start our day heading North. Straight through to the gaol. Morning tea will be within the grounds before heading over to the lighthouse around noon. Lunch today is at The Pantry within Netherby House! Back around 16:00 to the Port Coach Terminal.

$169.00 per person

For more information or to book;

Phone:                 02 6583 3330                                 

Email:                  admin@portbus.com.au

Website:              https://www.portbus.com.au

All tours require a minimum number to proceed

Times & Venues are subject to change without notice