Living in the Macleay

Overview

Welcome to the thriving and dynamic community of the Macleay Valley.

Our location mid-way between Sydney and Brisbane, combined with close and convenient access to the Pacific Highway, is a major attraction for business and industry seeking commercial competitive advantage.

The Macleay Valley experiences steady economic growth that is not characterised by boom and bust periods. Many opportunities exist for new and existing businesses, employees and their families.

With a choice of town, rural or coastal living, quality health and education services and little to no work commute, you’ll have the kind of lifestyle everyone is looking for.

Education

A range of schools, preschools and childcare centres operate across the Macleay, including four high schools and 16 primary schools.

The Kempsey campus of TAFE NSW offers a wide range of courses to the local community. 

The Country Universities Centre (CUC) Macleay Valley is a regional study hub open to anyone studying an Australian university course.

Health and medical services

Kempsey District Hospital recently received an $80 million upgrade. Patients can expect the highest level of care and benefit from brand-new facilities, including an expanded emergency department and medical unit, and the establishment of an integrated community care unit.

The Mid North Coast Local Health District provides an extensive range of community health services in the Macleay Valley.  

The region also has a number of modern medical and dental practices, as well as allied health and complementary health providers. The Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Service also offers a variety of health care services. 

Community services and facilities

The Macleay Valley has excellent community and sporting facilities, including libraries, parks, playgrounds, cycleways, swimming pools, sporting ovals for all codes, netball courts, tennis and squash courts, golf courses and much more. Our natural environment offers the best surfing beaches, our national parks have excellent walking trails and our magnificent river offers many opportunities for water- based activities.

The Kempsey Community Directory is an online directory of community groups, services and facilities available across the region.

Arts, culture and entertainment

The Macleay Valley is home to an exciting array of arts and cultural activities, as well as delicious fresh food and a range of dining experiences

Hey Hey Macleay showcases the Macleay Valley’s many popular community events, including concerts, festivals, markets and sporting competitions. 

Transport

Kempsey Shire is ideally situated, with easy access to the Pacific Highway and the North Coast railway line. This makes Kempsey a perfect location for businesses servicing regional and capital city markets or for those looking to expand into other regional markets.

It is an easy 35-minute drive from Kempsey to Port Macquarie and an 80-minute drive from Kempsey to Coffs Harbour. Port Macquarie Airport has commercial flights to Sydney, Brisbane and Canberra.

Two local bus services operate throughout the Macleay Valley, connecting towns and villages with the railway station, shopping districts, business centres and schools.

Kempsey Airport is used for private and charter flights.