Driving
Stuarts Point to Dubbo
Updated: 31 May 2026
The journey from Stuarts Point to Dubbo is a significant inland trek of approximately 550 kilometers. You will head west from the coast, traversing the Great Dividing Range via the Oxley Highway. This route takes you through scenic towns like Walcha, Tamworth, and Gunnedah. Expect a driving time of roughly 7 hours, excluding stops. It is a diverse route that transitions from coastal forests to the expansive plains of the Central West.
Total Distance: 550 km driving distance; 430 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the Oxley and Newell Highways takes 7 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most practical and cost-effective method for this long-distance journey.
Compare Stuarts Point to Dubbo Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
7 hours
Avg Price
120-150 AUD in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
Oxley Highway (B56) and Newell Highway (A39).
The Oxley Highway is winding through the mountains; drive during daylight hours.
Travel Tips
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Mountain DrivingThe Oxley Highway has steep, winding sections; ensure your brakes are in good condition.
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StopoversTamworth is an ideal halfway point for a meal and a break from driving.
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FuelFill up in larger towns like Tamworth or Gunnedah to avoid higher prices in remote areas.
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Mobile ReceptionExpect limited mobile coverage in the mountain passes between the coast and the tablelands.
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PlanningStart your journey early in the morning to arrive in Dubbo before sunset.
Safety Tips
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WildlifeBe extremely vigilant for kangaroos and emus on the road, especially near dusk.
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FatiguePlan for at least two major breaks to manage the long driving time.
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WeatherCheck for snow or ice warnings in the high country during winter months.
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EmergencyCarry extra water and non-perishable food in case of vehicle breakdown.
People Also Ask
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How long is the drive to Dubbo?It takes approximately 7 hours via the Oxley Highway.
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Is the road winding?Yes, the section through the Great Dividing Range is quite winding.
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Are there trains to Dubbo?You can take a train from Sydney, but there is no direct rail from Stuarts Point.
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What is the best route?The Oxley Highway is the most direct and scenic route.
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Is it safe to drive at night?It is not recommended due to high wildlife activity on inland roads.
Quick Info
- From Stuarts Point, New South Wales, Australia
- To Dubbo, New South Wales, Australia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Autumn or spring to avoid the extreme heat of summer in the inland plains.
Things to Do in Dubbo
1
Taronga Western Plains Zoo
A world-class open-range zoo where you can cycle or drive through animal enclosures.
2
Old Dubbo Gaol
Explore this historic 19th-century prison with guided tours and night-time ghost tours.
3
Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden
A beautiful space featuring a Japanese garden and diverse native plant collections.
4
Shoyoen Japanese Garden
A peaceful retreat within the botanic gardens, perfect for a quiet afternoon walk.
Tags
Stuarts Point to Dubbo
driving to Dubbo
inland NSW travel
Oxley Highway route
Stuarts Point road trip
Dubbo travel guide
NSW cross-state travel
driving across NSW
Dubbo zoo travel
long distance driving
