Visitor Guidelines
Access
- Access is via a locked gate. On confirmation of registration details & payment, we will touch base by phone, on the night before your arrival to go through new gate code access, road & weather conditions & estimated time of arrival, etc. Access through the locked gate is after 12 noon, and is 1.5 hours from Armidale. If you can time it for then, it allows campers leaving the Retreat to be out of the campsites by 11.00am & up the steep cutting & out the locked gate by 12 noon. Please be advised that the property is accessible by 4WD only.
- For recreational visitors with non-vehicular access (i.e. canoeists, hikers) please register your trip itinerary, emergency evacuation procedures and next-of-kin details, along with payment of camping fees (if applicable) before entering "West Kunderang".
- Visitors will also be given instructions on the use of the satellite phone in case of an emergency.
- Admittance to “West Kunderang" is at the owner’s discretion.
Driving
- Please adhere to road signs (eg. steep descent) and speed signs.
- The maximum vehicular speed on “West Kunderang” is 20kph.
- The last 6 kms of road on the property is steep, with deep, purpose built drains to minimise water damage. Approach these water drains slowly to avoid damage to your vehicle.
- Alternate wheel tracks to reduce the funnelling effect, decreasing the risk of water damage.
- To further minimise road damage drive according to current conditions:
- Wet Conditions: DO NOT CONTINUE unless authorised to do so.
- Dry Conditions: 4WD Automatic - Low Range 1st or 2nd gear, 4WD Manual - High Range 1st gear to minimise use of brakes.
If Towing: 4WD- Low Range 1st gear to minimise use of brakes. - Rest point 1.5 km from locked gate.
- GATES should be left as you found them.
- Cattle, horses and all wildlife have RIGHT OF WAY
- Drive on DESIGNATED TRACKS only.
- Do not attempt RIVER CROSSINGS without prior permission.
- MOTORBIKES are not to be ridden on this property.
- Do not drive unlicenced on the Property including teaching non-licenced learner drivers.
- Do not allow people to ride unrestrained on vehicles on the property.
Use of Campsites
- CAMP in designated campsites only with toilet provided. No bush camping.
- Light OPEN FIRES only in designated fire-pits. Don't circle your fire with stones as they are likely to shatter. BBQ’s and firewood are provided at each designated campsite for your use.
- Please use only the wood provided, & if using an axe or chopping equipment do so in an appropriate and safe manner ensuring that no children are left unattended with such equipment.
- Do not use or bring any chainsaws onto the Property.
- Please keep rubbish out of the firepits (i.e. tins, bottles & foil - particularly stubby twist tops).
- Don’t burn anything plastic or that contains foil.
- By law you must observe all fire bans.
- We recommend you have an alternate cooking facility in the event of a fire ban.
- Never leave a fire unattended. The potential for environmental damage and economic loss due to bushfires is enormous. When you leave your campsite douse the fire with water until is it completely out.
- Recycle your RUBBISH as you need to take it out with you. This includes all twist tops, cigarette butts, bread ties, plastic bottle top rings and food scraps.
- Do not feed native or domestic animals with leftovers as it encourages them to scavenge and disrupt your campsite.
- NO GENERATORS allowed (except for medical reasons).
- DETERGENTS don’t belong in the river so please wash up in the sinks provided at each campsite and spread the washing water at least 50 metres from a water course. We suggest you provide your own solar shower.
- Clear, running water is no longer a guarantee that it it is safe to drink so we recommend boiling all DRINKING WATER for at least 5 (preferably 10) minutes.
- A SATELLITE PHONE is accessible to all visitors and is located under the covered way between the bedroom and bathroom of the Cabin. The phone is blocked for any outgoing calls, except for emergency numbers & to contact Cindy. It is wise to familiarise yourself with the phone on arrival, in case of emergency.
Fishing
- FISHING is allowed, however NSW Fisheries legal sizes, bag and possession limits must be observed. A NSW recreational fishing licence is required when fishing in all waters.
- Fishing Licences are available from Service NSW. Please ensure you have a valid fishing licence before entering West Kunderang.
- The use of illegal fishing methods will NOT be tolerated on "West Kunderang". We advocate the use of barbless hooks and the practise of ‘Catch and Release’
- A bass fishing pamphlet is also available if you require further information about fishing at “West Kunderang"
Horse Riding / Shooting
- HORSE RIDING on "West Kunderang" is restricted to cattle mustering activities only. No private horse-riding allowed.
- NO SHOOTING is allowed on “West Kunderang".
Pets
- PLEASE ASK if you wish to bring your pet.
- As "West Kunderang" is primarily a working cattle station, pets may not be allowed at certain times of the year as their presence conflicts with station management practises. At other times they are welcome but must be leashed/ caged and supervised especially at feeding times.
- Pet droppings must be removed with your general rubbish.
River Safety
- Be aware that the river heights can change dramatically and rapidly.
- Lifejackets must be worn in all water craft.
- Ensure that all water craft are removed from the water after use to well above high water mark.
- Before swimming, check water depth, current and temperature. Never dive or jump in as there may be hidden rocks or logs.
- Children must be supervised in the water at all times.
Bushwalking
- Please be aware we are enjoying the great outdoors with our native plants & animals, with at times unpredictable weather.
- Always be aware of the potential dangers of snakes, spiders, insects, bull routs and stinging plants.
- Know where your First Aid Kit is located with a snake bite bandage.
- Always wear appropriate clothing and footwear when bushwalking & near or in the river.
- Plan your outings being mindful of heat exhaustion and sunburn; taking adequate hydration and food supplies with you when you are out & about.
- Always tell someone where you plan to go & your time of return.
Thankyou
Thank you for adhering to these guidelines and regulations.
These management practices have been implemented as a priority for YOUR SAFETY.
Enjoy your stay!!!
View more details in our Terms & Conditions

West Kunderang Access Sign on Kempsey Road

Access along Raspberry Road

4WD & Caravan towing on access road

Access on West Kunderang Cutting

Designated Fireplace at Campsite

Catch and Release

Catch and Release

Dogs on leash & pooper-scoop

Water safety - lifejackets

Be aware of Stinging Trees