Lake Macquarie is Awabakal Country. The Awabakal people cared for and nurtured this land for thousands of years. It is in their footsteps that we travel these lands and waters. 

As you explore Lake Macquarie please acknowledge Elders past, present and future and take care of Awabakal Country.

With a rich history and strong cultural community, Lake Macquarie offers many ways to explore the past, uncover local culture, and discover the nature and build environments from heritage trails, first nations cultural sites, museums and public art. Here are twenty art, history and natural experiences to explore:

1. Creative Lake Trail: Discover more than 20 sculptures by local, national and international artists nestled around the lake on this 8km shared track along the shore of Lake Macquarie, from Eleebana to the Museum of Art and Culture, yapang. Not to be missed is climb and play sculpture, Lady by the Lady by renowned artist Sanne Mestrom at the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima.

2. Museum of Art and Culture, yapang: Situated in a breathtaking waterside location, MAC yapang hosts contemporary exhibitions as well as workshops and gallery tours as well as an outdoor Sculpture Park and onsite cafe.

3. Rathmines Park: Experience the history of the Rathmines RAAF Base, which was the largest flying boat base in Australia during WWII with the Rathmines Heritage Trail, a 1.1km sign-posted heritage walk. Visit the Rathmines Heritage Centre, inside the Rathmines Theatre, which explores the history of Rathmines RAAF Base through a visual display by photographer Max Duplain who photographed RAAF Rathmines and the Australian experience of the second world war while serving as a camouflage officer. 

4. Sugar Valley Library Museum, kirantakamyari: Showcasing the rich cultural heritage of West Wallsend through Westy: we built this history exhibitions and immersive experiences, including a Play Musuem and virtual reality underground coal mine. While there make sure you grab a copy of the self-guided walking tour of nearby West Wallsend.

5. Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track: The FAST, as it is known, takes visitors on a 27km shared pathway linking Adamstown to Murrays Beach and follows an old railway line. Explore former train stations, relics of mining heritage, public art and Aboriginal interpretation signage as well as Belmont Lagoon.

6. Maritime History Trail: Explore the fascinating maritime history of Lake Macquarie. Visit each of the eight sites, with interpretation panels telling the story of the maritime heritage and role the area played in the WWII. Starting at Warners Bay with VIRTUAL AWABA, weave your way around the lake and find out about boatbuilding, Catalinas, ferries, sailing and industry.

7. Wangi Wangi: Home to the state heritage-listed Dobell House, a museum and Blue Plaque location that was once home to multiple Archibald Prize winning artist, Sir William Dobell. Look out for the Lake Macquarie Dobell Festival, held every June. Wangi Wangi is also home to larger-than-life Owl sculptures, WWII gun emplacements and the Wangi Circuit Walking Track, which provides stunning views to Pulbah Island with even the occasional sea turtle spotted.

8. Catherine Hill Bay Cultural Precinct: This unique coastal mining village is one of only two towns in NSW that are entirely heritage-listed. Explore the Heritage Walking Trail discovering the industrial heritage including the iconic former coal-loading jetty and stop in at the Catho Pub, previously the Wallarah Hotel, and which has existed on the site since 1874.

9. Pirrita Island Boardwalk: Protecting the characteristic landscape and cultural heritage of Swansea foreshore, this accessible boardwalk showcases the unique plants and animals that call this area home.

10. Pulbah Island: Associated with Aboriginal stories as a meeting place and ceremonial site, Pulbah Island is co-managed by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Awabakal people. Please be respectful that this is a significant cultural site and view from the water only.
    

11. Glenrock Early Coal Mining Sites: Explore the walking trails in Glenrock State Conservation area, home to more than 145 recorded historic sites. The park has an extensive mining history, with coal mined in the area from 1800s to the 1970s. 
    
    

12. Warners Bay Heritage Trail: Explore what Warners Bay and Lake Macquarie were like 250 years ago in this digital Heritage Trail. Learn about the people that called this place home.
    
    

13. West Wallsend Heritage Walk: This self-guided walking tour of West Wallsend explores the e area and highlights the buildings and sites significant to the development of the area. 
    
    

14. Toronto: In the 1890’s Toronto was promoted as the ‘Riviera of Australia, following the opening of Toronto Hotel. You can also explore the rail trail along the Toronto Foreshore including the heritage Railway Station or take a dip in the almost 100 year-old Toronto Baths. 
    
    

15. Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima: Resting on the lakeside shores in Speers Point Park, this innovative space for digital art and performance is surrounded by public artworks. Inside you will find a 360 projection and a range of immersive exhibitions. Outside is the stunning Lady of Lake sculpture by Sanne Mestrom and an Acknowledgement of Country in Morse code built into the brickwork of the North Wall.
    
    

16. Rathmines Theatre, nawayiba: This hertiage theatre is home to a range of performances and productions, including live music, theatre, dance and community events.
    
    

17. Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba: Regularly showing dance, theatre, orchestral and live music performance, this theatre is in the heart of the Warners Bay dining and shopping precinct.  
    
    

18. Lake Cinema: Offering a nostalgic cinema experience, this 1974 cinema 1974, screens new and old films, offers complimentary tea and biscuit, all for just a $10 ticket.  
    
    

19. Richmond Vale Rail Museum: Formed in 1979 with the aim of preserving Railway and Mining Heritage, the museum includes historic displays, train riders and historic film screenings. 
    

20. Sunnyside Heritage Cottage: Formerly home to Ellen G White, Sunnyside Heritage Cottage now explores the historical significance of White and her journey to become a co-founder of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
    
    

Click here to discover more about local history and the people who shaped Macquarie.