The Kempsey region in New South Wales is home to several museums that showcase the rich history and heritage of the area. A must-visit museum in the area is the Kempsey Museum, located in South Kempsey and housed in the unique Glenn Murcutt Building alongside the Visitor Information Centre. Run by the Macleay River Historical Society, this museum traces the history of the Macleay Valley from the time of the Aborigines to the present day.
The Kempsey Museum features collections and displays of historic artifacts related to the Macleay district, covering topics such as Aboriginal history, boot making, timber industry, military history, and natural history. It also houses a Research Department with an extensive collection of local history and family files, serving as a valuable resource for research on local families, locations, and topics. Additionally, the museum boasts a Photographic Section with over 40,000 images and photographs that offer a visual journey through the history of the Macleay Valley.
In addition to the Kempsey Museum, visitors to the Kempsey region can explore the Slim Dusty Centre, dedicated to the life and career of the iconic Australian singer-songwriter, Slim Dusty. The Dunghutti-Ngaku Aboriginal Art Gallery showcases the art and culture of the local Aboriginal community, while the Bowraville Folk Museum provides a glimpse into the region's colonial and rural history. These museums and cultural institutions collectively offer a diverse and immersive experience for visitors, allowing them to delve into the captivating history and heritage of the Kempsey region.