Is Griffith worth visiting?

Yes, it is famous for its Italian heritage, food, and wine culture.

How long is the flight?

The flight from Sydney to Griffith is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Yes, but it involves multiple transfers and is significantly slower than driving.

What is the best route?

The Newell Highway is the standard and most reliable route for this journey.

Are there rental cars?

Yes, rental agencies are available at Griffith Airport.

Griffith

Flight Driving

Wollongbar to Griffith

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Wollongbar to Griffith spans roughly 1000 kilometers across the heart of New South Wales. You will traverse the Great Dividing Range before descending into the fertile plains of the Riverina region. Driving is the most common method, utilizing the Newell Highway as the primary artery. Alternatively, you can fly from Ballina to Sydney and connect to Griffith Airport. This route takes you through major agricultural hubs and historic country towns.

Total Distance: 1050 km driving distance, 820 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying via Sydney is the fastest, taking about 5 hours total travel time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for individuals and families.

Compare Wollongbar to Griffith Routes

	Flight Connecting via Sydney	Driving Direct
Duration	5 hours	12 hours
Avg Price	$500 - $900	$250 fuel
Operator	Regional Express (Rex)	Personal Vehicle
Route	Ballina (BNK) to Sydney (SYD) to Griffith (GFF).	B60 and A39 (Newell Highway).
Tip	Rex is the primary carrier for the Sydney to Griffith leg.	Stop in Parkes to see the famous radio telescope.

Travel Tips

Route Planning
Use the Newell Highway for the most direct route, but watch for heavy freight traffic.
Food Stops
Stop in Narrabri or Dubbo for a wide variety of dining options.
Accommodation
Griffith has excellent motel options, but book ahead during the Spring Festival.
Local Transport
A car is essential for exploring the surrounding vineyards and farms.
Weather
The Riverina experiences hot summers, so ensure your vehicle's air conditioning is serviced.

Safety Tips

Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain alertness.
Road Conditions
Be aware of road trains on the Newell Highway; keep a safe distance when overtaking.
Emergency
Keep a physical road atlas in your car as a backup to GPS.
Wildlife
Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk when kangaroos are most active near the roadside.