Steeped in history and unique in appeal, Carrathool Shire takes in the towns of Hillston and the surrounding villages of Goolgowi, Merriwagga, Rankin Springs and Carrathool.
Nature and the environment play a major role in the Shire. Boasting two rivers, two national parks and a booming agricultural industry, there is an abundance of beautiful outdoor spaces, and native flora and fauna for visitors to explore and enjoy.
See the kangaroos, emus, birds and echidnas in our outdoor spaces…
Wander down Hillstons palm-lined main street…
Have a picnic in one of our National Parks…
Enjoy a day at Pinker’s Beach…
See the kangaroos, emus, birds and echidnas in our outdoor spaces…
Wander down Hillstons palm-lined main street…
Have a picnic in one of our National Parks…
Enjoy a day at Pinker’s Beach…

Tourist Attractions in Carrathool Shire
Black Stump Hotel, Merriwagga
Visit the Black Stump Hotel with its tallest bar in Australia.
The Red Dust and Paddy Melons Gallery, Hillston
Located in the Main Street, the Gallery showcases the talents of local artists and their subjects, with local art and craft available for purchase.
Willandra National Park
The Willandra National Park is 64km north of Hillston and covers an area of 19,386 hectares. The park offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history of the wool industry and station life. Highlights include the homestead area, shearers' quarters and the five interpretive walks. The Park is home to temporary wetlands, grassland, wildflowers, kangaroos and emus, waterbirds, reptiles and frogs. The park also provides opportunities for camping, bushwalking, picnicking, bicycling, fishing, canoeing, nature study and photography.
Birds of the Bush, Rankin Springs
Home to a large number of Australian bird species, including the Glossy Black Cockatoo, Superb Parrot, Major Mitchell Cockatoo, Gilbert;s Whistler, Chestnut Quail Thrush, Shy Hylacola, Painted Honeyeater and Mallee Fowl, the Rankin Springs area is great for the keen birdwatcher. There are seven designated and strategically located birdwatching sites with hides situated at two of them.
Located in the Main Street, the Gallery showcases the talents of local artists and their subjects, with local art and craft available for purchase.
Willandra National Park
The Willandra National Park is 64km north of Hillston and covers an area of 19,386 hectares. The park offers visitors a fascinating insight into the history of the wool industry and station life. Highlights include the homestead area, shearers' quarters and the five interpretive walks. The Park is home to temporary wetlands, grassland, wildflowers, kangaroos and emus, waterbirds, reptiles and frogs. The park also provides opportunities for camping, bushwalking, picnicking, bicycling, fishing, canoeing, nature study and photography.
Birds of the Bush, Rankin Springs
Home to a large number of Australian bird species, including the Glossy Black Cockatoo, Superb Parrot, Major Mitchell Cockatoo, Gilbert;s Whistler, Chestnut Quail Thrush, Shy Hylacola, Painted Honeyeater and Mallee Fowl, the Rankin Springs area is great for the keen birdwatcher. There are seven designated and strategically located birdwatching sites with hides situated at two of them.