Fast facts
- Small community in western NSW with authentic bush pub
- Semi-arid, dead-flat terrain with red dirt highlights
- 130 km north of Wilcannia, population 9
Why go there
It’s a stop along the way on the road that follows the Darling River between Bourke and Wentworth. The highlight is a visit to the century-old Royal Hotel. For a small donation to the Royal Flying Doctor Service, visitors are able to scrawl a message on the inside walls, like thousands of other tourists before them.
History
In times of drought, the Darling River is at best a memory. In 1956 it was another story entirely. The Darling River was in flood, spanning 80 km at its widest point, and Tilpa was cut off from the rest of the world for five months.
Things to do
- Down a thirst-quenching drink at the Royal Hotel.
- Fish for Murray Cod in the Darling River.
- See Harry “Breaker” Morant’s name on the War Memorial, the only place in Australia he is so commemorated.
Events
- Louth Races, held in August, with all the colour and excitement of a true outback horse-race meeting.
Don’t miss
- Purchasing a fishing licence at the Royal Hotel.
- Bird-watching during the migratory season.
- A peaceful picnic by a quiet waterhole.
- Kallara Station for a unique outback sheep station experience.
- The Aboriginal cave paintings at Mount Grenfell Historic Site to the south-east.
