Towns and Villages
Fingal Head
As you cruise south of Tweed Heads, you’ll find the coastal town of Fingal Head. This town oozes in natural beauty and wonder and is worth a visit. The headland is covered in tropical palm trees, native paper daisies and overlooks cook island making it a great location to watch the sunrise or sunset. The headland is made from basalt rock formations that were formed by ancient lava flow which creates a dramatic causeway which is a truly spectacular sight! Perched on top the headland is the Fingal Head lighthouse which is the oldest public building in the Tweed.
Also located at Fingal Head is Sheoak Shack, a gallery cafe with river views, live music, art and great food and coffee.
There is a boat ramp located at Fingal Head that provides BBQs, playground, picnic tables and a public toilet.
Chinderah
Chinderah is approximately a 1.5 hr cruise from Tweed Heads and is just past Fingal Head, as you venture upriver. Chinderah is a great place to stop off and pick up some bait and supplies. If you aren’t having too much luck with the fishing, pop on over to Tweed River Seafoods and pick yourself up some fresh, local seafood or stop in at Chinderah Tavern for a pub lunch. A floating jetty has been installed for easy access for boaties.
Whilst you are in town don’t forget to check out Chinderah Bay Antiques and Museum and Cubby Bakehouse – a must for your early morning coffee or sweet treat!
Tumbulgum
Tumbulgum, a small peaceful village situated on the banks of the Tweed River and was one of the first settlements in the valley. The village name is an aboriginal word meaning “meeting of the waters” as the Rous River joins the Tweed River here.
Tumbulgum has been a busy commercial and maritime centre from the middle of the last century, however is now a tranquil riverside village.
Tumbulgum was originally a cedar loggers settlement and many of the early buildings were constructed of red cedar and have been gazetted by the National Trust.
These days, activity at Tumbulgum centres on the river. A public wharf is conveniently located near the shops, and bait and tackle can be had by those who fancy a lazy day’s fishing.
The village has a small art gallery, café and general store, catering for most needs. The area’s popular watering hole is the historic Tumbulgum Tavern where the food is excellent and the views spectacular!
For the lovers of fine spirits, why not take a short stroll to Husk Distillery and enjoy an afternoon on the lawn sipping gin and experiencing the hidden beauty of the Tweed Valley.
Rous River
The Rous River is a small, quiet inlet with beautiful scenic views of the Tweed Valley. If you are up for a short bush walk, the Pioneers Cemetery is well worth a look and is easily accessible using your tender.
Condong
Condong, a small town located further upriver from Tumbulgum, can be reached after approximately a 4-hour cruise. It serves as the furthest point of travel along the river.
Along the riverbanks, you will find the Condong Sugar Mill, which has been operational since its establishment in 1880 and continues to operate to this day. Condong offers serene waters, making it an ideal location for skiing and wakeboarding, while also providing picturesque views of the Tweed Valley. If you have the opportunity, we recommend visiting the Stamp and Grind, a charming cafe and post office situated on McLeod Street, conveniently within walking distance from the river.
Due to the low set bridge at Cane Road, houseboats are not permitted to pass this point.
