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Guide to Southern Highlands

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  • Getting to the Southern Highlands
  • When to visit

With heritage towns amid rolling hills and unspoilt bush, the Southern Highlands is one of Sydney's favourite weekend getaways.

The Southern Highlands make for the perfect country escape where you can browse through antique shops, enjoy a long lunch at a local winery or curl up with a book by a log fire. There are several townships to explore, each with its own unique offering. And you can get there in under two hours from Sydney, making it an easy destination for those wanting to enjoy a bit of the country life.

The Southern Highlands, a region located south-west of Sydney, is home to several cute townships and villages. Though a train is available from Sydney’s Central Station, the easiest way to reach the highlands is by hiring a car.

Bowral, a main hub of the Southern Highlands, is located just under a two-hour drive from both Sydney and Canberra. Generally, you can expect to drive about 30 minutes between highland towns.

Car hire is available at Sydney and Canberra airports as well as within each city.

The Southern Highlands experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters and warm summers. Spring is the perfect time to visit; the weather is mild and the region hosts a range of culinary and community events.

  • High season: Summer (December to February)
  • Low season: Autumn (September to November)

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visit nsw southern highlands

The Ultimate Guide To Southern Highlands In NSW (Incl. Map)

Thinking about going to Southern Highlands in NSW, but unsure where to start with planning your Sydney getaway? Known as one of the best day trips from Sydney, or even day trips from Canberra, the NSW Southern Highlands is often regarded as one of the best places to visit near Sydney.

I used to think the whole Southern Highlands area was called Kangaroo Valley. Truth is, it’s one of the towns which makes up the Southern Highlands. There are loads of gorgeous towns to visit in Southern Highlands, but which one’s should you go to? If you’re heading down on a day trip from Sydney, there’s only so much you’ll be able to do.

We recommend going for a weekend getaway from Sydney, if not longer (if you can). If you’re wondering why you should visit the Southern Highlands, it’s home to a beautiful English looking countryside. And, if you’re a British expat in Australia, you might find it comforting, if you’re missing home.

Southern Highlands is renowned for wineries, excellent cafes and restaurants, vintage shops, some of the best waterfalls in Sydney and of course some epic hikes and lookouts you need to check out. Need we say anymore?

So, we’re going to break down the towns you need to visit, including where to eat, stay and the best things to do. We have already written a few detailed guides on some of the Southern Highlands towns already, which we’ll link in this article as well so you can read more about them if they peak your interest.

Table of Contents

When To Visit Southern Highlands?

kangaroo-valley-waterfalls

You could visit Southern Highlands all year round. It’s going to look spectacular during Spring and Autumn though! A perfect time to visit would be to co-inside a visit with Tulip Time Festival in Spring. We visited at the end of Summer, a perfect time to enjoy the wild swimming spots, so it just depends on what you’re interested in doing.

Southern Highlands Map

Here is our Southern Highlands map so you can visually see where every place we mention in this guide is located.

Where To Stop On the Way To Southern Highlands

sydney-to-bowral-map

If you’re into wild swimming in Sydney, drive to Southern Highlands via Campbelltown and stop off at some of the epic waterfalls nearby. Or if you’re going via the coast, there’s some fantastic places you should stop off to visit as well.

Personally, we recommend driving via Campbelltown because it’s quicker to get to and start in Bowral. Then finish in Kangaroo Valley, and make a beeline to Berry on the way home via the coastal route. This means you’ll be able to tick off some fantastic places along the way.

Here’s some of the places you should keep in mind to visit on the way down to Southern Highlands.

Inland Route To Bowral

If you’re going to Southern Highlands for a weekend from Sydney, stop off at the following swimming spots if you’re visiting in Summer. I would allow a good two hours to visit one of these swimming holes in Sydney.

Stop off in Dharawal National Park and swim in Minerva Pool. Please keep in mind that Minerva Pool is a sacred Aboriginal pool, and only women and children are allowed to swim in it.

mermaid-pools-waterfalls-in-sydney

Or hike 30 minutes to the incredible Mermaid Pool in Tahmoor. The only problem is you’ll need to jump into the pool and it’s not exactly safe – there have been many casualties. It’s best to go and check out the pool, but turn around and head slightly back up the creek and swim in the beautiful See Through Pools instead.

BEST-WATERFALLS-IN-SYDNEY(1)

19 Best Waterfalls In Sydney 2024 Guide (Plus Swimming Holes!)

Via coastal route to kangaroo valley.

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Stop off at Stanwell Tops and check out the incredible views looking out to Sea Cliff Bridge. If you’re fit enough (and not with kids), find the secret Sea Cliff Bridge lookout and head over to The Scarborough Hotel for lunch. It’s got a brilliant cliff top beer garden out the back.

sri-venkateswara-temple-helensburgh

If you’re looking to do some cultural activities, stop off at the beautiful Sri Venkateswara Temple  in Helensborough and Nan Tien Temple which is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere.

Let’s not forget about visiting the largest blow hole in the world in Kiama and the beautiful Bomobo Rocks in Kiama as well. If you head this way, detour to Berry before starting the Southern Highlands trip in Kangaroo Valley. Berry is an absolutely gorgeous town you should spend the weekend in as well. Although it’s famous for a doughnut van, the town is beautiful, filled with beautiful shops, pubs and restaurants.

Which Towns To Visit in Southern Highlands

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If you’re unsure which towns to visit in Southern Highlands, we’re going to help you out by talking about our favourite places to visit.

If you’re spending the day in Southern Highlands, we recommend either heading straight for Bowral or Kangaroo Valley. Then work your way up or down the Highlands stopping off at a couple of places along the way.

Bowral is a great place for those looking for an easy going day trip from Sydney. With a direct train line from Sydney, simply jump on the train and explore the shops, cafes and restaurants to choose from. It’s basically a foodies dream in the largest town in the area.

Kangaroo Valley is much smaller (literally like one street) and has a cracking pub and a couple of great cafes to visit. It’s also perfect for those looking to go kayaking, hiking or swimming or waterfall chasing. So bring your car for this one and go on some beautiful drives and soak up the country air.

So, let’s get into it and share the best towns to visit in Southern Highlands.

Southern Highlands Most Popular Town: Bowral

harrys-on-green-lane-bowral

Bowral in Southern Highlands is the perfect day trip from Sydney on the train. It’s the main town in Southern Highlands and it’s a beautiful small town which has attracted many Sydneysiders to relocate to since Covid.

With direct trains, you can literally hop off and enjoy walking around the shops, whilst exploring some of the best places to eat in Southern Highlands. With loads to do, it’s the place to visit for foodies and anyone who is interested in having a walk around the shops, without really venturing too far. If you come down on the train, you won’t be able to visit the waterfalls in the area.

Here are some of our favourite places to explore in Bowral.

Where To Stay In Bowral

Budget: Bowral Boutique Motel has clean rooms and is located in the centre of town.

Mid Range: Berida Hotel has massive beds, indoor swimming pool, spa, tennis court and day spa.

Another Mid Range Option: Peppers Craigieburn Resort  is a stunning resort in the heart of Bowral, with a 9 hole golf course and beautiful landscaped gardens.

Luxury: Milton Park Country House boasts 2 tennis courts, a day spa and an indoor swimming pool, free breakfast, Wi-Fi and lovely garden views.

Bowral Restaurants

When looking for breakfast in Bowral, we recommend checking out The Press Shop or Plantation Cafe and Gumnut Patisserie for croissants. The beautiful restaurant called Harry’s On Green Lane is not to be missed for lunch or dinner. The restaurant itself is absolutely beautiful and reminds me something you would see back home in England.

The Mill is fantastic for cheap street food. Go to the Veggie Nook at The Mill for fantastic gnocchi and incredible fried green tomatoes. Bear in mind, The Mill is only open during the week. Don’t forget to discover Dirty Janes cafe at the back of the shop for a quirky Devonshire Tea.

Things To Do In Bowral

the-orangery-bowral

You can’t come to Bowral without going on a wine tour with a local . Make sure you visit the gorgeous Retford Park Gardens, Bowral Lookout, Dirty Janes antique shop & The Orangery both at Green Lane. Green Lane kinda reminds me of The Grounds Of Alexandria, but with plant shops, cafes and an antique shop. It’s beautiful there and makes for some nice images too!

Around the corner is Lancelot Hill, an amazing antique shop with Tudor style buildings built inside it. It’s a sight to be seen! If you’re looking for Bowral walks, tackle the Box Vale walking track.

Find out more about the best things to do in Bowral in our detailed guide below!

harrys-on-green-lane-bowral

28 Best Things To Do In Bowral NSW 2024 Guide

You can’t miss the beautiful berrima.

berrima-southern-highlands

Berrima is an absolutely beautiful town in Southern Highlands. I think it’s one of my favourites! As an historic town, there’s shops and gorgeous little cafes to check out. The main thing for me is that it had this really comforting feeling like I was back in the English countryside here, and I just loved it.

If I had to choose between my favourite places in Southern Highlands, I would choose Berrima, Bowral and Kangaroo Valley.

Where To Stay In Berrima

There’s only one place you want to stay at in Berrima, and that’s the beautiful Bendooley Estate, just a few steps away from the gorgeous Book Barn.

Berrima Restaurants

The General Surveyor Inn is the longest continuously licensed pub in Australia! Head here for dinner and drinks and almost feel like you’re in a proper English pub.

Visit the unique Berkelouw Book Barn cafe for breakfast or lunch and of course, you must visit Eschalot for dinner as it’s one of the best places to eat in Southern Highlands!

Things To Do In Berrima

Berkelouw-book-barn-berrima

Head to Harpers Mansion Maze, and have fun at one of the biggest hedge mazes in Australia! It’s only open on weekends FYI! Make sure you check out the historical buildings in the village, even the old courthouse and Australia’s longest serving gaol. If you’re brave enough, go on a ghost tour!

Be Enchanted By Moss Vale Gardens

red-cow-farm-moss-vale-sydney

We didn’t love Moss Vale to be honest as it didn’t have the charm of the other towns in Southern Highlands for us. But, what we did find is there is an amazing garden you totally need to check out just on the outskirts in Sutton Forest, which we mention below.

Where To Stay In Moss Vale

Hotel: Stay at Dormie House Hotel which is situated on a golf course, complete with a spa and gardens.

Apartment: Little Chelsea is a gorgeous one bed apartment you’ll have all to yourself.

Moss Vale Restaurants

The Post Office Cafe is the place to go for breakfast or lunch in Moss Vale. Then head to Birch Restaurant for dinner.

Things To Do In Moss Vale

red-cow-farm-moss-vale-sydney

Red Cow Farm certainly feels like a hidden gem (pictured above). With a British style cottage out the front, you’ll find beautiful gardens behind it, complete with a turquoise pond in the middle. We loved it here, it’s got to be one of our favourite finds in the whole of Southern Highlands!

Other places to check out include Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve which is a bird watchers paradise with over 90 species, and Leighton Gardens.

Find Peace In Bundanoon

visit nsw southern highlands

Bundanoon in Southern Highlands is another gorgeous town to visit on your day trip from Sydney. Whilst it might not be as popular as other towns in the area, there are some fantastic hidden gems you need to know about.

Where To Stay In Bundanoon

Budget: Bundanoon Country Inn Motel is a fantastic choice for budget friendly, with a swimming pool and tennis courts.

Mid Range: The Bundanoon Guesthouse has fantastic reviews, complete with a spa bath and kitchenette for a country escape.

Bundanoon Restaurants

Check out DeliLicious in Bundanoon for breakfast and lunch and Bottega Ristorante for an Italian dinner.

Things To Do In Bundanoon

MEDITATION-RETREAT-IN-SYDNEY-SUNNATARAM-FOREST-MONASTERY

We absolutely love Sunnatarum Forest Monastery in Bundanoon. Having been three times now, it’s a magical meditation retreat in the heart of the Southern Highlands. As a donation based retreat, you’ll spend a weekend practicing walking meditation, sitting meditation, Thai Chi overlooking Jervis Bay in the distance, as well as teachings throughout the day (check out our review below). If you’re not up for committing to a whole weekend, you can drop by for a morning teaching and lunch on a Sunday. Check their site first before attending.

You can also check out the famous Fairy Bower Falls walk in Bundanoon as well. It takes about an hour return to do this hike. There are actually loads of lookout points in the area, as well as the Erith Coal Mine Track too.

MEDITATION-RETREAT-IN-SYDNEY-SUNNATARAM-FOREST-MONASTERY

Best Weekend Meditation Retreat In Sydney At Sunnataram Forest Monastery

Visit the epic waterfalls in kangaroo valley.

weekend-getaways-from-sydney-kangaroo-valley

Kangaroo Valley is one of the most famous towns to visit in Southern Highlands. Famed for the Kangaroo River and a quaint town that’s so beautiful, you could easily spend a week or two relaxing from city life!

Where To Stay In Kangaroo Valley

Couples Tiny Home: Stay in a super popular tiny home in Kangaroo Valley and tick it off your bucket list! Suitable for couples, it can hold up to 4 people so might suit a family too.

Groups or Families: Discover this amazing rainforest retreat we stumbled across in the heart of the Kangaroo Valley.

Luxury: Stay at The Laurels B&B , a luxury Kangaroo Valley accommodation option which has exceptional reviews.

Kangaroo Valley Restaurants

Head to The General Cafe for breakfast or lunch, or Hampden Deli for a pastry or quick bite to eat. The Friendly Inn is an amazing pub, and one of the oldest in the region with a fab beer garden out the back, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Things to do in Kangaroo Valley

kangaroo-valley-australian-bank-cafe

With so many things to do in Kangaroo Valley, you certainly won’t be be lost for wondering how to fill your time. Start with kayaking down the Kangaroo River, explore the amazing waterfalls in Kangaroo Valley such as Fitzroy Falls, Belmore Falls, Gerringong Falls, and the amazing Flat Rock Waterhole. With the latter, the drive itself up through the Upper Kangaroo Valley is amazing and worth it alone.

Also drive down from Fitzroy Falls to Kangaroo Valley on the Moss Vale Road and if you’re lucky like we were, you might be driving above and into the clouds.

READ OUR KANGAROO VALLEY GUIDES

13 Best Waterfalls In Kangaroo Valley

42 Best Things To Do In Kangaroo Valley

More Waterfalls & Pies In Robertson

best-things-to-do-in-robertson

Robertson is another gorgeous town in Southern Highlands to visit. We love the drive from Kangaroo Valley up to Belmore Falls, just outside of Robertson. The drive really reminds me of the English countryside which is something I miss a lot in Australia. Known as the arts hub of Southern Highlands, you’ll find loads to keep you busy here for your day trip from Sydney or weekend getaway.

Where To Stay In Robertson

Mid Range: Stay at Greengate Bed & Breakfast for free breakfast with mountain views

Mid Range: The iconic Robertson Hotel has a beautiful outdoor pool and on site bar.

Robertson Restaurants

Many tourists come to Robertson simply to visit the Robertson pie shop. While it’s a tourist attraction, we have eaten better pies before. That said, it’s one of those places, you need to try for yourself.

Head to the gorgeous Robertson Public House for a pub lunch or dinner. It’s a beautiful pub you could spend the whole day at sat in the sunshine in the middle of town.

Things To Do In Robertson

carrington-falls-southern-highlands

For us, Robertson is all about checking out some of the best waterfalls in Sydney. Make sure you visit Belmore Falls, Carrington Falls and the swimming holes next door including Blue Pool and Nellie’s Glen. There’s a campground next door to Blue Pool, a perfect spot for summertime wild swimming. Head a little out of Robertson and discover the amazing Jump Rock at Macquarie Pass. It’s a 30 minute hike to get there but totally worth it.

best-things-to-do-in-robertson

15 Best Things To Do In Robertson NSW

Adventure in jamberoo.

Minnamurra-Falls

Jamberoo is a fantastic place to visit on your way into Southern Highlands or on the way home. Keep in mind there are quite a few excellent activities to do here, so save enough time.

Where To Stay In Jamberoo

Make sure you check out the Ananda Wellness Retreat which has an outdoor pool, hot tub, room service and an excellent restaurant.

Jamberoo Restaurants

Head over to Ananda Green Kitchen for breakfast, Kings Patisserie for lunch and the Jamberoo pub for dinner.

Things To Do In Jamberoo

jamberoo-lookout-southern-highlands

The most obvious place to visit is Jamberoo Action Park! It’s an awesome waterpark in the heart of the Southern Highlands. We visited years ago and loved it, enough if six year olds were hurrying me along to jump of the diving board because I was scared of heights!

Make sure you also stop off at Jamberoo Lookout. It’s literally just off the main road and doesn’t give you a huge amount of warning, but it’s pretty special as you can see right out to Wollongong.

Make sure you also do the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk too. It’s kinda mad to think there’s a rainforest near Sydney… but there you go! Next door is the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, a magnificent walk amongst the trees. I’ve not done it yet, but heard it’s excellent.

Don’t Forget To Stop Off At Berry

berry-doughnut-van

There’s so many reasons to stop off in Berry on your Southern Highlands day trip from Sydney! Actually, we would personally spend the whole weekend in this stunningly beautiful town near Sydney.

Whilst many of the Southern Highlands towns we’ve mentioned in this article are absolutely beautiful, there’s something which feels extra special about Berry. The main street is lined with gorgeous shops and restaurants, and it’s the type of place we would probably move to if we had some money behind us!

Where To Stay In Berry

Mid-Range: We would personally stay at the gorgeous The Berry Inn . The crisp white sheets and light filled rooms had us taken straight away!

Whole Apartment: Little Gem is located in the heart of Berry and has fantastic reviews for this one bed apartment.

Whole Apartment: Red Waratah is another apartment with fantastic reviews, perfect for couples looking to do a bit of cooking.

Luxury: Mt Hay Retreat is worth splashing out for a special occasion.

Berry Restaurants

With so many Berry restaurants to choose from, the food scene doesn’t disappoint. Head to The Hungry Monkey for breakfast, The Garden for lunch and South On Albany for dinner. This is just a small selection of the many incredible places to eat in Berry.

Things To Do In Berry

drawing-room-rocks-berry

Obviously, the most famous thing to do in Berry is to go to the Berry doughnut van. It makes a fun stop over on the way home and I must admit, they are pretty good (trust me, we were sceptical too!).

Visit Silos Estate Winery as it’s the most famous winery in the region. And, if you’re looking for hikes in Southern Highlands, make sure you check out the 4km Drawing Room Rocks hike! It’s an amazing hike to a stunning lookout with rocks which look like they could be table and chairs!

If you’re looking for more places to visit on your Southern Highlands trip, head down to the jaw dropping beaches at Jervis Bay, visit the famous Kiama blowhole which also happens to be the world’s largest blow hole and of course check out Wollongong.

We’re going to help you make some decisions if you’re unsure which towns to visit on your trip to Southern Highlands! Here’s our best of for you!

  • Town For Accommodation: Kangaroo Valley / Bowral
  • Town By Public Transport: Bowral
  • Best Small Town : Kangaroo Valley / Berry / Berrima
  • Waterfalls : Kangaroo Valley / Robertson
  • Hiking: Robertson / Jamberoo / Berry
  • Adventure : Kangaroo Valley / Jamberoo
  • Foodies : Berry / Bowral
  • Meditation: Bundanoon
  • Best Place For Country Drives: Moss Vale Road From Bowral to Kangaroo Valley / Upper Kangaroo Valley / Kangaroo Valley to Robertson

We hope our Southern Highlands series has inspired you to visit more often! Check out more of our Southern Highlands guide below!

Don’t Forget To Watch Our Southern Highlands Video!

The ultimate guide for southern highlands.

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Sydney Expert

NSW Southern Highlands – a Beginner’s Guide

You have decided it is time to explore the NSW Southern Highlands, but other than that, the Highlands include a bunch of cute towns and waterfalls; you don’t really know much about them. Never fear, we have done the groundwork and today present a quick guide for anyone who wants to find the best experiences to include on your next day trip or getaway from Sydney.

Why Visit the NSW Southern Highlands

Top 6 reasons to visit the highlands, burrawang village, kangaroo valley, sutton forrest, how cold does it really get, driving routes to the southern highlands, southern highlands train services.

This post contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure policy  is here.

Think of this introduction to the major towns as a good starting point for learning more about this fascinating region just south of Sydney. For each town, we have included the highlights and the basics of getting there.

The Southern Highlands of New South Wales has both natural beauty and historic significance by the bucket load. Rolling hills in shades of lush green and English-style villages with their quirky shops, pretty gardens and grand homesteads are big draw cards.

The highlands sit on the Great Dividing Range, the fifth-longest mountain range in the world. It stretches from Cape York to the Grampians in Victoria.

Added to that are seven stunning but less explored National parks, including Morton, Budderoo and Macquarie Pass, dozens of vineyards and a vibrant food scene, and you have more than enough reasons this collection of towns and villages, just 90 minutes south of Sydney should be on the radar for your next city escape.

But first, some history…

This is Gundungarra and  Tharawal  (or  Dharawal ) land; it extends from Camden to Goulburn; at one time, the Gundungarra people were referred to as the Bong Bong tribe, so if you have ever wondered how Bong Bong Street in Bowral came to be now, you know!

Wingecarribee, Burradoo, Mittagong, Bong Bong, Bowral, Bundanoon and Nattai are all Indigenous Australians words

By the time the first settlers arrived, records suggest less than 100 indigenous people had lived in the region. Some worked with the colonials as guides and translators, while others moved further south.

In 1802, when the explorer Francis Barrallier met the Gundungara people, he noted in his journal that the Gundungara “themselves build huts for the strangers they wish to receive as friends.” 

It was not until the 1880s the highlands became a popular place for city dwellers to escape the summer temps. With a landscape reminiscent of England, elegant retreats appeared shortly after that railway line opened. Inns and public houses appeared in number, and like Katoomba, it sprung to life with Sydney’s elite coming to stay.

visit nsw southern highlands

  • Chasing waterfalls – along with the trinity of Carrington, Belmore, and Fitzroy Falls, there are several less known, spectacular waterfalls waiting to be discovered.
  • Hiking – An enormous variety of bush walks with tracks ranging from short family-friendly walks to challenging day walks to hone your navigation skills.
  • Wine tasting – (and of course shopping) – organic, vegan, handpicked, family-operated are popular words used to describe the award-winning wineries that produce a vast range of cool-climate wines.
  • Wildlife spotting – Koalas, platypus and kangaroos are in good numbers in the highlands. In fact, the area has the largest koala population in Southern NSW.
  • Garden visits – The annual Tulip Time festival in spring and the changing autumn tones draw Sydneysiders to these towns every year.
  • Antique and homeware shopping – Dozens of fabulous antique shops, op shops and stylish boutique homeware shopping.

The Main Towns in the Southern Highlands of NSW

If you drive down the freeway from Sydney, Mittagong is the first town you come to is surrounded by walking trails, lookouts, and home to the beautiful Lake Alexandra. Mount Gibraltar, the highest point in the highlands, is just a short drive away, and there are some lovely walks in the area.

What to See and Do in Mittagong

  • Climb or drive to the top of 863m high Mount Gibraltar and check out the views from its three lookouts, Bowral Lookout, Mittagong Lookout and Mount Jellore Lookout
  • Picnic at Lake Alexandra – feed the ducks and take a walk around the lake after lunch. Excellent facilities and lots of space.
  • Take a tour of a working farm for only $20 at The Pines Pastoral.

Where to Shop

  • Mittagong Antiques Centre
  • Twisting Vintage – vintage fashion emporium. 

Where to Eat

  • The Shaggy Cow – great coffee and quality local treats
  • Gumnut Patisserie – the prettiest cakes and pastries in town
  • Paste Australia – Thai Cuisine Restaurant

Paste Thailand

Where to Stay Near Mittagong

  • Mittagong Caravan Park is a brilliant spot if you are road tripping or camping
  • Apple Tree Cottage – a historic 1870s sandstone cottage
  • Old Bank Boutique Hotel – in town and walking distance to the train station.

Wine tasting near Mittagong

  • Artemis Wines – This dog-friendly, family-run winery was the first to plant Pinot Noir in the region.

Location: Google map link Transport : Train from Central to Macarthur then change for the Moss Vale train – average travel time 2hrs 20 minutes.

The largest of the Southern Highlands towns, Bowral is an excellent base if you want resort-style hotels and fine dining on your doorstep. It’s also a top choice for visitors without a car. The town is home to many well known Australians, with those from the arts best represented.

visit nsw southern highlands

International Cricket Hall of Fame (aka the Bradman Museum) – Where a life-sized statue of Sir Donald Bradman greets you on arrival, and plenty of fascinating cricket memorabilia await inspection in the attached museum.

Bowral (originally Bowrall) is said to come from the Aboriginal word that means “high and large”

Things You Should See in Bowral

  • Corbett Gardens – the centre of the action in late September for the Tulip Time Festival
  • Mansfield Reserve – a great place to spot koalas and stretch your legs
  • Retford Park – A stunning Italianate mansion managed by the National Trust
  • The Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame – get the map and do the Bradman town walk too!

visit nsw southern highlands

Where to Eat 

  • Bare Bites and Brews  – vegan plant-based eatery
  • Eden Brewery – Craft beer and great burgers
  • Tractorless Wine and Bowral Brewing @ The Mill Bowral – The Mill complex is a must.

Where to Shop in Bowral

  • Dirty Janes Antique Shop – a well-known spot for fossicking for interesting pieces – they also serve high tea.
  • The Plantation – a cafe that sells some fabulous local food and household products

The Plantation

Where to Stay 

  • Berida Hotel  – luxury rooms with spa and indoor pool
  • Sebel Bowral Heritage Park – studios, 1 and 2-bedroom apartments
  • Peppers Bowral  – 5 minutes from town on a 9 hole golf course
  • Gibraltar Hotel  – high-end rooms on a stunning 18 hole golf course

Wineries in or Near Bowral 

  • Centennial Vineyards – a Haliday’s 5 star rated vineyard and one of the oldest in the region. Hosting the Borealis in the Vineyards this winter!

Location: Google map link Transport : Train from Central to Macarthur then change for the Moss Vale train – average travel time 2hrs 25 minutes.

This historic village is perfect for visitors looking for a day trip from Sydney that includes poking around the shops. Its name is said to mean southward” or “black swan”.

Berrima Gaol NSW

This pretty Georgian Village is jam-packed with historic buildings that have barely changed since the railway bypassed the town in the 1860s.  The town is full of historical significance, including the oldest continuously licensed inn in Australia. Convict labour was employed to build the Surveyor General Inn (1834) was built with convict labour.  

Visit in spring and you can see Canola fields along the way into town.

It’s home to Australia’s oldest surviving gaol, and its impressive courthouse is the site of the colony’s first jury trial in 1841.

  • Take the Berrima River Walk and see if you can spot a platypus
  • Find your way out of the Hedge maze at Harper’s Mansion 
  • See the latest works at Whitewall Art Projects
  • Visit the Berrima Courthouse

Whitewall Art Berrima NSW

Where to Eat in Berrima

  • Berrima General Store  – book or arrive early on weekends
  • The Magpie Cafe – a great spot for a long lunch
  • Gumnut Patisserie – the region’s most popular place for cakes

Where to Shop 

  • Berrima Village Pottery 
  • Sticky Beak’s Emporium
  • Hand Stirred Jam Company
  • Berkelouw Book Barn – books and dining just out of town

visit nsw southern highlands

Wineries In or Nearby

  • Peppergreen’s Tasting Room is right in town
  • Bendooley Estate  is on the road north to Sydney

Location: Google map link Transport : Train to Moss Vale and then 812 bus (30 mins_

One of the biggest towns in the highlands, Moss Vale, was the first Southern highlands settlement site. Once the railway arrived, so did settlers, and it became the hub of the region. The town is still very much a service centre for the highlands. Well known for its English trees and gardens, Moss Vale is now developing a reputation for fantastic food and dining. There is plenty here to keep the food lover happy; you cannot fit it all into one weekend.

visit nsw southern highlands

Must-See Sites in Moss Vale

  • Throsby House – First permanent colonial resident to Moss Vale, Jemmy Moss, a herdsman was employed by the owner and worked at Throsby House.
  • The wetlands at Cecil Hopkins Nature Reserve will delight bird lovers

Where to Eat in Moss Vale  

  • Post Office Cafe  – a great restoration right by the train station.
  • Southern Highlands Brewing & Taphouse  – try to arrive for “Tappy Hour” 3pm – 6pm Fridays
  • Birch Restaurant – degustation and fine dining

Shop in Moss Vale

  • Mossy Store  – homewares and handmade furniture
  • Bowerbird on Argyle – Design store with a fab range of homewares, gifts and fashion items.
  • Reviva at the Resource Recovery Centre – Reuse, recycle and upcycle at the social enterprise run centre. If you love to rummage around in charity shops, don’t miss this one.

Where to Stay in Moss Vale

  • Argyle Hotel   – Budget digs in the centre of town.
  • The Old Nunnery is a lovely BnB in a 120-year-old property.
  • Peppers Manor House – On the outskirts of town, this property offers rooms and suites on magnificent grounds.

Wineries near Moss Vale

  • Mount Ashby Estate – one of the most photogenic wineries we have visited in the region

Location: Google map link Transport : Train from Central Station 2 hours and 30 minutes (Change at Macarthur Station)

A small, quiet town that links the Illawarra coast to the highlands, Robertson is a dairy town famous for its cheese. It is also the largest potato growing area in NSW.

visit nsw southern highlands

Many lookouts in the area offer green rolling hills and distant sandy beaches. This town, which feels much like a small English village, is a fabulous base for visiting the many waterfalls or hiking in Budderoo National Park.  

Many early settlers in the area came from Ireland, among them John Hanrahan, who planted the first potato crops in 1867.

Robertson makes a great base for exploring the national parks and waterfalls. There is plenty of food for the appetite you build after a day of hiking. It’s also a wonderful spot to relax and take in the views!

Natural Highlights Near Robertson

  • Belmore Falls – named after the Governor of NSW and Earl of Belmore 
  • Carrington Falls and nearby Nellies Glen
  • Fitzroy Falls – also named for a NSW governor 
  • Remnant Native Australian Rainforest – take a walk, thought the 600m loop – great for kids 
  • Illawarra Fly – just 10 minutes from Robertson, take the treetops walk for fabulous rainforest views.

Roberson Public House

Where to Eat in Robertson

  • Moonacres Kitchen – Well known for their sourdough, which we rate too!
  • Lucinda’s Pantry – we missed it this time, but locals were really adamant we try it next time.
  • Southern Rise Bakery / Robertson Pie Shop – Do a pie taste test and pick your favourite – Southern Rise won us.
  • Robertson Public House (1887) – the local pub and one of the oldest timber buildings in NSW
  • Robertson Cheese Factory   – way more than just cheese with antiques, fudge, and fantastic gelato.
  • The SHAC – Southern Highlands Artist’s Collective – an eclectic collection worth a look across the road from the pub.
  • The Cool Room – A Country Emporium – In the same building as the Cheese Factory

Where to Stay

  • Robertson Hotel   – Grand old hotel – with friendly service, and unpretentious style is home of the TV Series The Traitors that premiered in 2022.
  • Robertson Public House – pop up to bed after they call last drinks! Lovely rooms but share bathrooms may not appeal to all.

Location: Google map link Transport : Train to Wollongong and then board the Moss Vale bus, which stops in Robertson. The full journey takes about 3hrs and 15 mins.

Famous for its avenue of English trees and rolling mists in April/May, Bundanoon is home to the annual Brigadoon Festival , which sees the population swell to celebrate all things tartan.

The next Brigadoon Festival is on 1 April 2023

There is also a very popular walk to the Glow Worm Glen, where you can see glow worms shine after dark. Sadly, it was damaged in the 2020 bushfires and is currently closed.

Aerial overlooking the town of Bundanoon in the Southern Highlands

Finally, stop in at Sunnatarum Forest Monastery for something completely different, currently only open on Sundays. You can take part in a meditation session and join the monks for lunch. You can also help in the garden in the afternoon.

Location: Google map link Transport : The train to Canberra makes a stop at Bundanoon. Limited services from the Southern Highlands line also make the journey.

Smaller Southern Highlands Towns We Love

Just a short drive from Robertson and a good place to stop off after viewing nearby Belmore Falls. The Burrawang General Store and the Burrawang Pub are the two key places to search out a meal.

visit nsw southern highlands

The southernmost town of the area, Kangaroo Valley, is a very popular town for a weekend away. Paddle the Kangaroo River, or take a swim under the historic Hamden Plenty of great accommodation and a very good caravan park make this a popular weekend getaway spot.

Country retreat for wealthy Sydneysiders in the 1880s and some pretty famous names today. A little over 5km from Moss Vale Sutton Forest once hosted NSW governors at Hillview Estate for their summer vacations. Make time, visit Red Cow Farm and its beautiful gardens. One look at their Instagram feed will convince you that you need to stop here.

Exeter General Store  is the place to head for breakfast if you find yourself down this way at the right time of day. They named the town after an English town in Devon.

A must for history lovers, Joadja is home to an abandoned mining village and a distillery that produces various spirits, including single malt whiskey, gin, brandy and more. Book a distillery tour or visit the old town.

When is the best time to visit the Southern Highlands?

With four distinct seasons, there is no bad time to visit, as each offers unique experiences. Visitor numbers swell in spring and autumn for the floral displays and, in winter when visitors flock to enjoy roaring fireplaces and fine food. June is actually the busiest time of year, and accommodation prices are at their peak. Summer is a close second. Autumn is great hiking weather, and prices are most affordable then too.

The average Sydneysider will need to pack a jacket year-round for a visit to the highlands – we are not used to cool overnight temps, so you will probably reach for it come sundown.

visit nsw southern highlands

  • Summer – day time highs of 23-26 degrees celsius and 12-18 degrees overnight
  • Autumn – 12-18 degrees in the daytime to between 11-2 overnight
  • Winter – 11-13 day time highs and 1-3 degrees overnight
  • Spring- 16-23 and 4-10 overnight

May, July and August see the least rain, and there is only occasional snow in the region. The wettest months are February, June and November.

How to Get to the Southern Highlands

From Sydney, you can approach the highlands via the M5 Motorway and Hume Highway or the M1 along the coast and then the Macquarie Pass to Robertson.

  • The Hume Highway is the best choice if you are planning to visit Mittagong, Bowral or Berrima.
  • To visit The Southern Highlands’s waterfalls and towns of Roberton or Kangaroo Valley, take the M1 and Macquarie Pass or Jamberoo Mountain Road.

The area is well suited to a loop trip, so return the opposite way if you plan to visit most towns during your stay.

If you don’t have a car, you can still enjoy a break here. Trains travel from Sydney to Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale. Choose one of these towns as a base, and there is enough to keep you busy exploring for a couple of days.

Southern Highlands Train Station

3 thoughts on “NSW Southern Highlands – a Beginner’s Guide”

Hiking, wine tasting, and waterfalls? Sign me up! It seems like an amazing part of the country to explore. Hopefully I’ll be able to tour around it soon!

Such a beautiful part of NSW and Im grateful that I have visited a few of these places. However looks like there is much more to see. It has been a few years now since. I was living in Toowoomba Qld and we drove down to Melbourne via Sydney and the Southern Highlands. Thank you for a great post.

It’s evident that your passion for travel and storytelling has transformed this guide into a captivating adventure for your readers. Your love for the NSW Southern Highlands is contagious, and you’ve left us eager to immerse ourselves in its beauty. Here’s to more wanderings in this enchanting haven!

Leave a comment

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Southern Highlands

Things to do in southern highlands, explore popular experiences, popular cities in southern highlands.

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Ways to tour Southern Highlands

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Wild Wombat and Kangaroo Day Tour from Sydney

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  • Personalised wine tour experience in the beautiful NSW Southern Highlands

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Southern Highlands & South Coast Private Tour From Sydney

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South Coast Private Charter

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  • Private Wildlife Waterfalls and Wine Day Tour from Sydney

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  • Wine Tours Sydney - Southern Highlands Day Escape, Full Day Wine Tasting Tour

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Private Sustainable Wine Tour in Berrima

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Private Sydney Rail Tours - See Best Sights by Train

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2 Days Private Adventure Tour From Sydney to South Coast

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Private Full-Day Tour in Sydney

Top attractions in southern highlands.

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Nature and Wildlife Tours

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Wine Tastings

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Private Sightseeing Tours

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Ports of Call Tours

Tours & sightseeing, what travellers are saying.

Tommo

  • Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame
  • Dirty Janes Bowral
  • Artemis Wines
  • Joadja Vineyard
  • The Corbett Gardens
  • Lake Alexandra Reserve
  • Belmore Falls
  • Carrington Falls
  • Fairy Bower Falls
  • Wild Wombat and Kangaroo Day Tour
  • Southern Highlands & South Coast Private Tour From Sydney
  • Red Cow Farm - Open Garden
  • Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre
  • Lolly Swagman

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  • Accommodation
  • Travel Inspiration

Couple enjoying a romantic getaway in Bowral, Southern Highlands

A guide to exploring the Southern Highlands by bike

The southern highlands is famed for lush country scenery, exceptional regional dining and its historic towns. this regional guide takes you on a leisurely bike journey, with casual and luxury options at all stops..

Destination NSW

Destination NSW

Travelling by bike means going slowly – taking in the surroundings, ending up in places you’d never usually go to and working up an appetite for the next great meal. This Southern Highlands circuit is a great bike trip to cycle slowly. The entry-level ride is only two to three hours of riding per day (almost all of it on quiet backroads) and takes you to waterfalls, famous pie shops, beautiful forests and historic towns. Then, depending on your style, you can pick a campsite or luxury accommodation for each night’s rest.

Note :  while this is a three-day tour, it can be easily done in two or four days.

Getting to Mittagong

Public trains leave roughly every hour from Central Station, Sydney, with the journey taking 2.5 hours. It’s free to take your bike, as long as there’s space for the both of you on the carriage. CountryLink is around 40 minutes quicker, but ticket s  are usually around $15 – $30 (plus an extra $12 for your bike). If you have a car big or well-equipped enough to carry a bike, it’s an hour - and - a-half  drive.

Mount Gibraltar in Mittagong, Southern Highlands

Mount Gibraltar  in Mittagong, Southern Highlands - Credit: Destination Southern Highlands

Mittagong to Robertson

Cruise through farmyards, tiny towns and Southern Highlands forests. The ride is 28-30km with a few moderate hills. If you want a challenging hill climb with a fun descent, take the southern, slightly longer route.

> See map

Consider getting into Mittagong early so you can take a quick detour to Nattai Gorge Lookout (15km round trip by bike plus a short walking track) and/or have lunch at Paste Australia , a fine-dining Thai restaurant run by a Michelin-starred chef.  

Watermelon and ground salmon salad at Paste in Mittagong, Southern Highlands

Watermelon and ground salmon salad at  Paste restaurant , Mittagong

At the other end of the ride in Robertson , refuel with an iconic Australian meat pie at the Robertson Pie Shop (it’s been serving the same pies since 1961!) before one more ride to see the local waterfalls. Less than an hour’s ride from town takes you to the epic Belmore Falls to the south or Carrington Falls  and its beautiful swimming hole to the southeast (note the ride here has a section on a main road).

The scenic Belmore Falls waterfall in Morton National Park, Country NSW

Belmore Falls , Morton National Park  - Credit: Above Down Under by Kramer Photography

Campers should continue 11km southeast from Robertson to reach the Carrington Falls campground , a beautiful site with a swimming hole, picnic tables, toilets and the opportunity to fall asleep to sound of the nearby cascade. Luxury-seekers, book in at the Robertson Hotel , a century-old manor with manicured gardens, a fireplace-warmed lounge and a pool on the edge of a forest.

Guests enjoying a high tea experience at The Robertson Hotel, Robertson

The Robertson Hotel in Robertson, Southern Highlands

Robertson to Bundanoon

The route via Fitzroy Falls  is the nicest option. It’s 45km in total and winds through historic towns, countryside and national parklands and past the Fitzroy Falls Reservoir. There are a few hills, including one to start to the day , but nothing gruelling.

>See map

Start your day at one of the best regional cafes in the state, Moonacres Kitchen . The cafe-bakery is the outpost for Moonacres Farm, which is known for serving exceptional produce to Firedoor and other great Sydney restaurants.

Moonacres Kitchen in Robertson , Southern Highlands

Moonacres Kitchen , Robertson

Your ride takes you to Fitzroy Falls, a famous Southern Highlands destination. The huge waterfall lookout is a short walk from the road, as are the starts of many popular walks, which (in the right season) show off incredible wildflower blooms. You’ll also go through Exeter , a tiny town famous for its colossal country manors and a stone church built in the late 19th century.

The scenic Fitzroy Falls at Morton National Park in Fitzroy Falls, Southern Highlands

Fitzroy Falls , Morton National Park  - Credit: Kramer Photography/www.kramer.photography

Once you reach Bundanoon , you have two choices (or both, if you have time). Option one is to take a short ride south (less than 8km there and back) to explore the Fairy Bower Falls and Grand Canyon of Morton National Park . The other is to pamper yourself with a spa treatment and/or a luxurious meal at Osborn House , a five-star hotel operating out of an 1890s-built manor.

Aerial overlooking the town of Bundanoon in the Southern Highlands

Aerial overlooking the town of Bundanoon in the Southern Highlands

The extravagant option is the aforementioned Osborn House. Adding to the grand historic building are interiors designed by SOHO House design director Linda Boronkay; each room is steeped in old-world country luxury. Campers should check out Gambells Rest , a well-equipped campground that connects to the bike trails heading into Morton National Park .

Dining room at Osborn House, Bundanoon

Dinah’s restaurant at Osborn House , Bundanoon - Credit: Osborn House

Bundanoon to Berrima

Take the 25km eastern route for quieter roads and a tasty pit stop in the town of Moss Vale .

Your first break is at Moss Vale, a charming town with a long colonial history and architecture to show it. If you're ready for lunch, the Southern Highlands Taphouse serves burgers, 300g NY-cut sirloin steaks and portobello pappardelle alongside their award-winning craft beers. For a quick snack, drop into Bernie’s Diner for a Reuben sandwich; it’s been around since the ‘ 20s.

Stylish Craft Beer Taphouse at Southern Highlands Brewing Taphouse in Moss Vale, Southern Highlands

Southern Highlands Brewing Taphouse , Moss Vale

In Berrima , reward yourself with a pastry at the famous Gumnut Patisserie , taste test a dazzling array of sweets at Lolly Swagman or book a table at one of the best restaurants in the region, Eschalot . Post-lunch, stroll through town and take in the historic architecture.

Elegant dish made from the freshest and highest quality ingredients at Eschalot restaurant in Berrima, Southern Highlands in the Country NSW

Eschalot , Berrima

An extra 3km ride gets you to Bendooley Estate . The striking estate is home to more than just a cellar door – explore a fancy bistro; a larder selling picnic hampers, cakes and cheese and family pies; and Berkelouw Book Barn, a cafe and bookshop which sells rare, vintage second-hand books.

A table of food inside the charming Bendooley Estate, Berrima

Bendooley Estate , Berrima

If you’re not staying at a Bendooley Estate cottage, Berrima River Reserve Campground is an exceptionally well-equipped yet quiet site to pitch your tent. Alongside river views, enjoy flushing toilets, barbecues, picnic tables and fishing spots all a short ride from Berrima.

Farmhouse and scenic grounds at Bendooley Estate, Berrima

Berrima to Bowral

Bowral is only a 10km ride from Berrima but includes a short but tough hill climb and a fun descent on the other side.

As the central hub of the Southern Highlands, Bowral is packed with things to do. Keen riders can attempt the climb to Mt Gibraltar (the views will be the reward), pick up a (potentially heavy) souvenir at Dirty Janes Antique Market or explore the history of one of the greatest athletes to ever live at the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame .

Home to over 75 independent dealers, decorators and general upcyclers at Dirty Janes antique market, Bowral

Dirty Janes , Bowral

Top quality snacks and take-home goods can be collected at Cheese Etc . Alternatively, plan your final Southern Highlands meal at Italian institution Onesta Cucina , or in the beautiful dining room at Harry’s on Green Lane .

Interior of dining area with fireplace at Harry’s on Green Lane, Bowral

Harry’s on Green Lane , Bowral - Credit: Harry’s on Green Lane

Getting home

Getting you and your bike home is the same route as getting here, with just an extra stop on the train. If you’re going on CountryLink, book early as seats can book out.

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Southern Highlands Visitor Information Centre

The Southern Highlands is a unique area. In fact it is hard to find a region similar anywhere else in Australia.

Southern Highlands

About this location

62 - 70 Main Street, Mittagong NSW 2575

  • Welcomes people with access needs
  • Booking/Tour Desk
  • Coach Parking
  • Electric Vehicle Charging Point
  • Picnic Area
  • Public Toilet
  • Shop / Gift Shop

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Southern Highlands

Southern Highlands

Southern Highlands

Visitor Information Centre

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Southern Highlands and Goulburn students celebrate completion of Health Care Traineeship

April 30, 2024

Partnership with Harbison Care and Warrigal addresses local skill shortages in sector

Ten UOW College students will celebrate their final day of study in a new Health Care Traineeship Program today (Tuesday 30 April) at the University of Wollongong (UOW) Southern Highlands .

The students from the Southern Highlands and Goulburn are the first to complete the program.

Commencing last year, in partnership with aged care providers Harbison Care and Warrigal , the program is designed to address skill shortages in the local health care sector.

The traineeship is a one-year program, with students attending the UOW Southern Highlands campus one day a week studying CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support delivered by UOW College, while being employed by Harbison Care or Warrigal for a minimum of 21 hours per week.  The students are employed at Harbison Care’s centres in Moss Vale and Burradoo, and Warrigal facilities in Goulburn and Bundanoon.

Manager of Vocational Education at UOW College, Ms Liz Thomas said that the traineeship program was a collaboration with local industry designed with their needs in mind – most particularly attracting and retaining skilled workers in aged care. 

“It’s an ideal way to bring new workers into health care. Traineeships are fee-free under NSW Government Smart and Skilled subsidised training and students are able to work and earn while gaining their qualifications” Ms Thomas said.

Partnership Manager at Harbison Care, Mr Zac Hulm, said that the collaboration had been a great success and “offered a fantastic opportunity to fill much-needed jobs in the region”.

Following on from the program’s success, a second cohort of students commenced the program earlier this year, with plans underway to expand the program by working with additional local health care providers.

UOW Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice-President (Strategy and Assurance) Professor Sean Brawley congratulated the students on their achievements, and all involved in the program’s success.

“UOW is anchored in the communities we serve. Initiatives like the Health Care Traineeship Program highlight the importance of our regional campuses in strengthening local partnerships to produce industry-ready professionals who can address local skills gaps.”

The students will celebrate their final day of study with an afternoon tea at the UOW Southern Highlands campus with representatives from Harbison Care, Warrigal, UOW and UOW College in attendance to congratulate the students.

For further information, contact: UOW College Manager of Vocational Education, Liz Thomas ( [email protected] ), UOW Southern Highlands Campus Manager, Stephen Lowe ( [email protected]) or Harbison Care Partnership Manager, Zac Hulm ( [email protected] ).

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