Is Grafton worth visiting?

Yes, it is famous for its Jacaranda festival and beautiful river setting.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes about 12 hours.

No direct train; you must use a combination of bus and rail.

Yes, the entire route is on sealed, well-maintained roads.

Yarrawonga

Grafton

Bus Driving

Yarrawonga to Grafton

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Yarrawonga to Grafton covers approximately 950 kilometers, primarily along the Newell Highway and the Gwydir Highway. Driving is the most practical option, taking about 12 hours through the heart of the New South Wales wheat belt and the Northern Tablelands. Grafton is famous for its annual Jacaranda Festival and its beautiful river setting. While public transport is limited, it is possible to reach Grafton via a combination of bus and train services. This route is long and requires careful planning.

Total Distance: 950 km driving distance; 700 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking approximately 12 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for groups.

Compare Yarrawonga to Grafton Routes

	Bus Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	16 hours	12 hours
Avg Price	180-300 AUD	170-230 AUD fuel cost
Operator	NSW TrainLink	Personal Vehicle
Route	Bus to Albury, then train/bus to Grafton.	Newell Highway (A39) to Moree, then Gwydir Highway to Grafton.
Tip	Book your journey through the NSW TrainLink website.	The Gwydir Highway is a scenic route through the mountains.

Travel Tips

Book Early
Accommodation fills up fast during the Jacaranda Festival; book well in advance.
Check Highway Alerts
Monitor Live Traffic NSW for any road closures or delays on the Newell Highway.
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
Fuel
Fill up in larger towns to ensure you have enough fuel.
Maps
Download offline maps as reception can be spotty in rural areas.

Safety Tips

Overtaking
Only overtake on the Newell Highway when it is safe and you have clear visibility.
Fatigue
Take regular breaks to stay alert on the long drive.
Wildlife
Be cautious of kangaroos, especially at dawn and dusk.
Emergency
Keep a first aid kit and water in your vehicle at all times.