The report of a major project trying to boost tourism in Gilgandra, Coonamble, and the Warrumbungles said that agri-tourism, sky observation, and promoting local stories may be the future.

Coonamble, Gilgandra, and Warrumbungle Shire Councils (the Councils) are working together to enhance the visitor experience associated with the rich natural landscapes of the Real Country region with funding support received through the NSW Government's Business Case and Strategy Development Fund.

Their conclusion after engagement sessions with local communities said there was a need to "diversify" tourist attractions in these shires.

It found that for all three there needs to be a greater "emphasis on cultural and historic experiences, unique events and seasonal and nature-based activities".

For Coonamble, stakeholders told the project they want to make the town a destination rather than a "pit stop". Stakeholders said the future development of the Town Beach precinct could provide the revitalisation needed in the area.

Other Ideas included highlighting Coonamble's "wheat story", sculptures in the sand and "creepy tours" that feature old haunted pubs and graveyards as well as increased parking and upgrading the visitor information centre.

Sunset over the wheat bunkers in Coonamble in 2022. Image: Kiana Cross (Graincorp)

Gilgandra, the report noted, "has always been a meeting place where different Aboriginal communities came for sharing."

Stakeholders said they thought the strength of the town's tourism attraction lay in "beautiful trees", birdwatching and arts and culture".  

"This included integrating infrastructure with art, promoting the "dark sky" and emus in the sky story, and creating sensory experiences for children in naturalised playgrounds."

The report said stakeholders suggested creating a nature-based agricultural playground and to integrate the history and natural landscape through an interpretive walk."

For Warrumbungle shire, the vision is to "Emphasise the importance of First Nations stories and identity. Promote the celebration of art to bring vibrancy to the river frontage" and, of course, "acknowledge the uniqueness of the dark sky, visible from town and park".

The Castlereagh River at Gilgandra. IMAGE: Explore Gilgandra

Stakeholders suggested a "Riverfront development that respects and preserves the river's health and ecology" and looked at exploring opportunities for hosting cultural events like OzOpera and creating family-friendly playgrounds.

One of the more colorful suggestions - so to speak - was that the town uses the colors of autumn as a theme.

"Creating a distinct point of difference through window decorations, creative lighting, and visual displays," the report said. "Establishing open-air night theatre events during the summer months to attract visitors".

The need for improved accessibility and connectivity was also a key theme across engagement sessions, particularly regarding town connection and river accessibility.

The report has been tabled across the three councils and will be used to consider how the funding will be used across the shires to assist them with attracting more tourists