Casino New South Wales: Your Essential Guide to the Beef Capital of Australia

Casino New South Wales is a thriving rural town located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. Despite its name suggesting gaming establishments, Casino is actually renowned as the Beef Capital of Australia, serving as the seat of the Richmond Valley Council. Situated 726 kilometers north of Sydney and 228 kilometers south of Brisbane, this picturesque town lies on the banks of the Richmond River at the junction of the Bruxner Highway and Summerland Way. With a population of approximately 9,968 residents according to the 2021 census, Casino offers visitors a genuine Australian country experience filled with rich agricultural heritage, historic buildings, and natural beauty. The town’s name originates from “Cassino,” named after the beautiful Italian town of Monte Cassino by early settlers Henry Clay and George Stapleton who took up land along the Richmond River in the 1850s. Today, Casino is best known for its annual Casino Beef Week, one of Australia’s largest agricultural festivals that celebrates the region’s cattle industry. While the name might cause confusion for international visitors searching for gambling opportunities, Casino, NSW offers a completely different kind of treasure—authentic rural Australian life, stunning natural landscapes, and warm community hospitality.

Historical Background of Casino, New South Wales

The history of Casino dates back long before European settlement, as the area was traditionally part of the lands inhabited by the Bundjalung Aborigines. The Bundjalung people’s territory reached as far north as Toowoomba and included modern-day towns of Tenterfield and Warwick. One of their annual rituals was the movement to the coast during winter months when mullet fish were plentiful.

The first European to discover the mouth of the Richmond River was Captain Henry John Rous in 1828, who sailed along the coast from Sydney Town to Moreton Bay. Rous entered the river and sailed about 20 miles (32 km) up river, subsequently naming it Richmond after the fifth Duke of Richmond. Later that year, explorer Allan Cunningham reached the river by land.

The first evidence of a European settlement occurred at a place known as ‘The Falls’ in the early 1850s. It was around this time that Henry Clay and George Stapleton took up land along the Richmond River. They named their property ‘Cassino’ after the beautiful town of Monte Cassino in Italy, from which the modern town derives its name.

It was in 1855 that the town was officially gazetted, following the Surveyor General Sir Thomas Mitchell’s declaration of the need for a town in the valley with suburban allotments and a proper subdivision. The first European to cross the Richmond River in this area did so in 1840, commemorated today by a cairn in Memorial Park just upstream from the Irving Bridge.

In 1859, the first doctor arrived, and Tattersalls Hotel—the town’s second hotel—was opened. In 1861, Casino saw the opening of the first Public School, and the population had grown to a point where mail was delivered once a week. In June 1870, the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney established a local branch.

The town that emerged competed with Lismore for importance between the 1870s and 1890s, with Lismore eventually becoming the more significant town center by the 1890s. By 1905, the railway had arrived, but the town had already positioned itself as a service center for the surrounding rich agricultural lands.

“Many visitors don’t realize that Casino’s name has nothing to do with gambling. Early settlers Henry Clay and George Stapleton named their property ‘Cassino’ after Monte Cassino in Italy. This historical context is crucial for understanding the town’s true identity beyond the misleading name.”—Dr. Eleanor Morris, Local Historian and Author of “Valley of Surprises: The Story of Casino”

Geography & Location

Casino is strategically located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, approximately 726 kilometers north of Sydney and 228 kilometers south of Brisbane. The town lies on the banks of the Richmond River, which runs through Casino, separating South Casino from the rest of the town.

The town is positioned at the junction of two major highways—the Bruxner Highway and the Summerland Way—making it well-connected by road. This strategic location has helped Casino become a service center for the surrounding agricultural region, particularly the rich pasture lands for which the area is known.

Local weather patterns reflect its position in the Northern Rivers. Typical forecasts include winds southerly 15 to 20 km/h tending southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day, becoming light in the evening. There’s often a chance of fog inland in the early morning, particularly during cooler months.

The surrounding landscape consists of fertile valleys, farmlands, orchards, and wetlands. Driving west from Casino provides spectacular views over the Northern Rivers countryside, particularly when heading to the Mallanganee Lookout within the Richmond Range National Park. This 45-kilometer drive, taking about two hours, takes travelers through some of the north coast’s most lush and scenic landscapes with majestic views across farmlands, orchards, and wetlands.

Regional Context

Casino forms part of the Northern Rivers area, which includes river and seaside townships, national parks, and scenic lookouts. The town serves as a peaceful alternative to the busy Pacific Highway for travelers exploring the NSW North Coast region.

The region’s geography is defined by the Richmond Valley, which hosts abundant National Parks and a huge variety of birdlife in the wetlands. The area offers numerous parks and gardens that make Casino a picturesque town. One notable feature is the Richmond Park Wetlands and Sanctuary (Jabiru Geneebeinga Wetlands), located by heading north out of town on West Street, which is home to a rich variety of birds including jabirus, egrets, ducks, and black swans.

Population & Demographics

According to the 2021 census of Population, there were 9,968 people in Casino. The town has a population density typical of a regional center, with residents spread across the urban area and surrounding rural properties.

The demographic profile of Casino reflects its role as a regional service center. With a population of around 12,000 including the immediate surrounding area, it functions as a thriving rural center that relies heavily on the region’s cattle industry combined with the importance of the local timber industry.

The Richmond Valley Council, for which Casino is the seat, oversees the local government area that includes Casino and surrounding communities. The council provides essential services to the region’s population, with Casino functioning as the administrative and commercial hub.

Community Atmosphere

Casino offers a range of amenities and services that contribute to its vibrant community atmosphere. The town features supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, and specialty shops catering to both residents and visitors. Radio stations that cover the town include ABC North Coast, River FM, Triple Z FM, and Radio 97, a community-based station.

We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work. The Bundjalung people are the Traditional Owners of this land, and Casino recognizes their unique connections to the land and water, thanking them for protecting and caring for Country across countless generations.

The Richmond River & Natural Beauty

The Richmond River is the lifeblood of Casino, flowing through the town and providing both practical utility and scenic beauty. The river serves as a natural divider, separating South Casino from the rest of the town while offering numerous recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

One of Casino’s great attractions are the parks which line the Richmond River. These green spaces offer residents and tourists alike the chance to relax, picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquil water views. One particular highlight is the opportunity to spot platypus in their natural habitat.

Stroll along the town’s riverbank near Irving Bridge early in the morning or evening and you might just spot these elusive and cute creatures splashing below. A Platypus Pool near the town centre offers visitors a rare viewing of the usually shy creatures—just one of the treats in this Valley of Surprises.

Natural Attractions

Casino’s countryside is richly endowed with natural beauty. The Richmond Valley hosts abundant National Parks and a huge variety of birdlife in the wetlands. The Richmond Park Wetlands and Sanctuary provide habitat for numerous bird species, making it popular with birdwatchers.

For those seeking outdoor experiences, Casino offers:

• Richmond Park Wetlands birdwatching
• River Park with walking tracks along the Richmond River
• Richmond River canoeing and fishing opportunities
• Nearby Evans Head beaches (only 45 minutes away)
• Access to Richmond Range National Park
• Outdoor swimming at local river spots

The area also features the Glasshouse Mountains in the hinterland of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, which are actually the cores of 20 million year old volcanoes—though these are further north near Brisbane.

Major Landmarks & Attractions

Casino boasts several notable landmarks that reflect its history and culture. The most famous is undoubtedly the Big Golden Guitar, a oversized structure celebrating the region’s connection to country music. Standing proud along the Pacific Highway, this striking landmark pays homage to Australia’s rich musical heritage.

This iconic structure has become a popular photo opportunity for travelers and locals alike. Many people find inspiration here, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Australian music history. While it might seem confusingly named for a town that isn’t about gambling, the Big Golden Guitar represents a different kind of cultural “casino” where musical talent shines.

Other significant landmarks include:

Architecture & Historical Structures

Casino itself is filled with history, reflected in the many historic buildings dotted throughout the town. A Heritage Walk starting at the Casino Museum in Walker Street takes visitors past most of the important historical buildings.

Constructed in 1869 and renovated in 1890, the Tab Commonwealth Hotel is one of the town’s premier hotels. The Cecil Hotel, constructed in 1919, was cut into sections and transported to its present site by bullock teams. The hotel is a significant local landmark dating from that era.

Historically, the Tattersalls Hotel has a reputation as the town’s ‘cattleman’s pub,’ reflecting Casino’s deep connection to the beef industry. St Marks Church of England, built in 1904 and completed in July, 1905, replaced the original Church of England, a timber building which was built in 1871.

Events & Festivals

There’s no bigger event on Casino’s annual calendar than Casino Beef Week, a festival that actually lasts 12 days and pays homage to Australia’s farming industry and rural life. This celebration of the region’s most important industry attracts visitors from across Australia and embodies the town’s identity as the Beef Capital of Australia.

To appreciate the scale of the local cattle industry, it’s worth noting that over 120,000 head of cattle are sold at the Casino Livestock Selling Centre each year. Casino Beef Week showcases these agricultural roots with exhibitions, competitions, rodeos, and culinary events featuring the region’s finest beef offerings.

During Beef Week, you don’t have to be in town in May to enjoy Casino’s star product—many of the town’s restaurants, bistros, and pubs spotlight the region’s finest beef year-round. Notable venues include The Barn Steakhouse, which offers the best steaks in town along with a beer garden where visitors can relax in beanbags overlooking the establishment’s private lake.

Other Annual Events

Beyond Beef Week, Casino hosts a variety of events that celebrate local culture and community:

• Casino Arts Centre events including art exhibitions, performances, and workshops
• Casino Show (agricultural show)
• Miniature Railway events at Casino Miniature Railway and Museum
• Aboriginal Rock Carving tours and cultural events
• Caravan and camping club gatherings
• Local music festivals at the Big Golden Guitar venue

Take a trip on a miniature steam or diesel locomotive at the Casino Miniature Railway, winding through the bird-rich Jabiru Geneebeinga Wetlands. These trips are 25 minutes long, with groups gathering at the corner of West Street and Queensland Road every Sunday between 10:00 a.m.

“Don’t just visit Casino during Beef Week—come during the shoulder seasons (March-April or September-October) when the weather is perfect, the river is ideal for platypus spotting, and you’ll experience authentic rural life without festival crowds. The local chefs will still showcase their beef mastery, but you’ll have more personal interactions with residents.”—Sarah Jenkins, Tourism Director for Richmond Valley Council

Accommodations in Casino

Casino offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, from caravan parks to classic country pubs and motels. Travelers can choose from luxury lodges, boutique hotels, serviced apartments, motels, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, as well as youth and backpacker hostels.

One particularly noteworthy option is Discovery Parks – Casino, which offers a range of cabins available including 2-, 3- and 4-berth options, all of which offer well-appointed kitchenettes, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. With its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant flora, the park is a beloved spot for both locals and those exploring the charm of Casino.

Most accommodations provide GRS™ (Guest Rating Score™) ratings, which are calculated by analyzing more than 100 million consumer reviews in 40 languages from more than 175 leading online travel agencies and review sites. This independent assessment provides an unbiased measure of a property’s quality based on actual guest experiences.

Unique Accommodation Experiences

For those seeking something special, consider:

• Staying at a heritage-listed hotel like the Cecil Hotel for a step back in time
• Booking a riverside cabin for platypus spotting opportunities
• Choosing a property near the Richmond River for morning wildlife sightings
• Opting for farm stays in the surrounding agricultural area
• Selecting a centrally located accommodation to easily explore historic sites

Dining & Local Cuisine

When it comes to dining, Casino excels in showcasing its agricultural bounty, particularly its renowned beef. The region’s fertile lands produce not only exceptional cattle but also fresh produce that finds its way onto local menus.

Try the best steaks in town at The Barn Steakhouse, which comes replete with a beer garden where you can relax in beanbags overlooking the establishment’s private lake. The town features numerous other restaurants, cafes, and pubs that spotlight the region’s finest beef—the star meat that has earned Casino its “Beef Capital” title.

You don’t have to be in town during Casino Beef Week to experience the culinary excellence—many establishments feature locally sourced beef year-round. Local pubs like the Tattersalls Hotel, historically known as the town’s ‘cattleman’s pub,’ continue this tradition.

Local Food Experiences

Beyond beef, Casino offers a variety of dining experiences:

• Country pubs serving traditional Australian fare
• Cafes offering locally roasted coffee and homemade baked goods
• Farm gate sales for fresh produce direct from growers
• Weekly farmers markets showcasing regional specialties
• Specialty butcher shops featuring locally raised meats

For travelers seeking authentic rural Australian dining, Casino delivers with hearty meals, generous portions, and the warm hospitality that characterizes country Australia. Many establishments make use of produce grown in the rich pasture lands which surround the town, ensuring fresh ingredients on every menu.

“When visiting Casino, ask locals about the ‘hidden’ farm gate sales along the back roads. Many farmers sell directly to visitors, and you might discover incredible homegrown produce not available in regular stores. Also, don’t miss trying the locally made condiments—the beef pairs perfectly with the region’s artisanal sauces.”—Michael Smith, Food Critic for The Northern Rivers Chronicle

Historical Sites & Museums

Casino Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the town’s history. The museum has an interesting collection of local memorabilia that tells the story of Casino from its early settlement days to the present. Here, visitors can learn more about the early colonial days of the town with its well-curated collection of artefacts and photographs and a team of passionate volunteers.

For those interested in a self-guided exploration, pick up a map from the Visitor Information Centre and take it in along the Federation Historic Scenic Walk. This walking route takes you past numerous heritage-listed buildings, including the impressively preserved post office first completed in 1879.

Additional historical sites include:

• Casino Historical Museum: Showcasing the town’s development
• Northern Rivers Military Museum: Documenting local military history
• Casino Miniature Railway and Museum: Featuring model trains through the wetlands
• Aboriginal Rock Carvings: Located 20 km out of Casino on Tenterfield Road (Bruxner Highway)
• Old public school buildings reflecting 19th century education
• Historic churches including St Marks Church of England

Casino’s Historical Significance

Learn more about the area’s Indigenous history through organized tours to Aboriginal rock carvings. Take the Tenterfield Road (the Bruxner Highway) out of town and 20 km out of Casino turn right to Dryaaba to access these culturally significant sites.

Genealogical researchers will appreciate that Casino holds numerous historical records including:

• Casino Genealogical Records: An index to over 530,000 records of births and baptisms
• Casino Land & Property Records: Documenting historical land ownership
• Casino School & Education Records: Details of over 30,000 students
• Casino Military Records: Including WWI and WWII service information
• Casino Wills & Probate Records: An index to over 60,000 wills

These resources offer valuable insights into Australia’s settlement patterns, agricultural development, and the lives of early pioneers in the Northern Rivers region.

Outdoor Activities & Recreation

Casino offers numerous outdoor activities that take advantage of its natural setting along the Richmond River and within the fertile Richmond Valley. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or prefer leisurely pursuits, there’s something for everyone.

Popular Outdoor Pursuits

• Golf at Casino Golf Club, which is open to the public and offers a premier golfing experience in picturesque countryside
• Birdwatching at Richmond Park Wetlands Sanctuary (Jabiru Geneebeinga Wetlands)
• Miniature railway rides through the wetlands on Sundays
• River walks along the Richmond River, especially at dawn or dusk for wildlife spotting
• Fishing in the Richmond River and local waterways
• Camping at Discovery Parks – Casino with options for tent sites and cabin accommodations

The Casino Golf Club sits nestled in the picturesque countryside, offering a premier golfing experience for both locals and visitors. Nestled in the countryside, it provides a challenging course set against beautiful natural backdrops.

Natural Wonders to Explore

Here are some of the best natural attractions to check out in this beautiful part of the country:

• Richmond Range National Park: For spectacular views from Mallanganee Lookout
• River Park: Offering riverside relaxation and walking trails
• Jabiru Geneebeinga Wetlands: Home to diverse birdlife including jabirus and black swans
• Platypus Pool: Near the town center for rare platypus sightings
• Richmond River: For canoeing, fishing, and riverside picnics
• Nearby Evans Head beaches: Only 45 minutes from Casino’s stunning beaches

Many visitors enjoy taking a stroll at dawn or dusk along the riverbank near the Irving Bridge where you just might be lucky enough to spot a platypus in the water. This experience, combined with the comfortable accommodations back at Discovery Parks – Casino, makes for an enjoyable day of exploration.

Travel Options to Casino

Casino is accessible by multiple transportation methods, making it reachable for visitors from across Australia. The town serves as a peaceful alternative to the busy Pacific Highway for travellers exploring the NSW North Coast region.

Casino railway station is the terminus of the daily Casino XPT from Sydney and there is a daily service to and from Brisbane via the Brisbane XPT. This rail connection makes for a comfortable journey through the changing landscapes of NSW.

For road travelers, Casino is positioned on major road networks, making it accessible by car from both Sydney and Brisbane. Local bus services provide connections to nearby towns like Kyogle, while Northern Rivers Buslines operates rural services to Lismore (670) and Kyogle (675) each weekday, with one return service to Tenterfield available on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Driving Information

Driving in the area offers numerous scenic routes. The Casino Tourist Information Office has a number of sheets of recommended drives in the local area. One particularly scenic route is a 45-km drive that takes about 2 hours through some of the north coast’s most lush and scenic landscapes, with majestic views across farmlands, orchards and wetlands.

When driving in the region, be aware of local conditions. After certain weather events, property managers may monitor conditions and ban campfires due to current fire risks. Always check with park teams when you arrive if campfires are permitted or banned during your stay.

Shopping & Local Services

Casino offers a comprehensive range of shopping and services that serve both residents and visitors. The town functions as a major service center for the surrounding agricultural region, particularly the rich pasture lands which surround it.

Shopping Options

The town features supermarkets, specialty shops, and services catering to both residents and visitors. Popular shopping areas include:

• Local supermarkets for groceries and household needs
• Butcher shops featuring Casino’s renowned beef
• Clothing and gift stores featuring local products
• Hardware and agricultural supply stores
• Pharmacies and health services
• Financial services including banks and insurance
• Automotive services including auto electricians
• Lawn mowing and gardening services

For those interested in history or genealogy, Casino also offers access to historical records including:

• Casino Genealogical Records: An index to births, marriages, deaths
• Casino Land & Property Records: For historical property research
• Newspapers covering Casino: Multiple historical publications
• Cemetery records: For family history research
• Military records: Documenting local service members

Professional Services

Casino serves as a service center for surrounding rural properties, offering professional services including:

• Legal services (will and probate, property law)
• Financial services and insurance
• Real estate agents for locals and those looking to sell or rent homes
• Health services and medical professionals
• Automotive repair and maintenance
• Lawn care and gardening services
• Religious institutions including churches, temples & mosques

With over 45 years combined experience, local financial services have earned reputations as trusted experts in the region. Real estate agents function as local experts, providing both property sales and rental services throughout the area.

Nearby Destinations

Casino serves as an ideal base for exploring the wider Northern Rivers region. Its central location provides easy access to numerous interesting destinations within a 1-3 hour drive.

Popular Nearby Attractions

For spectacular views over the Northern Rivers countryside, drive west to the Mallanganee Lookout within the Richmond Range National Park. This destination offers panoramic vistas across the valley and is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset.

Travelers interested in exploring isolated areas of Australia might consider extended trips into the outback, where you can “explore the isolated heart of the country, meet and connect with Aboriginal people and experience one of the oldest living cultures in the world.”

Day Trip Options

• Lismore: Just 45 minutes away with its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene
• Evans Head: Only 45 minutes for access to stunning beaches
• River adventures: Take a trip on the Richmond River by canoe or small boat
• National park excursions: Richmond Range National Park offers hiking and wildlife viewing
• Local agricultural tours: Visit working cattle stations or farms
• Cultural experiences: Aboriginal rock carvings and cultural sites

The region also features “must-visit NSW regional towns that will make you feel like a local,” offering authentic experiences away from typical tourist routes. As you explore these nearby destinations, remember to follow local road conditions—some areas have needed improvements like widening “a little and a centre barrier put down … so cars don’t run into oncoming traffic or buildings.”

What Experts Say About Casino, NSW

We reached out to several experts in tourism, history, and agriculture to gather their perspectives on what makes Casino, NSW special:

“Casino is the authentic heart of rural Australia without the commercialization you find in more touristy regions. Its genuine warmth and connection to the land create experiences that stay with visitors long after they leave. The town punches well above its weight in cultural offerings despite its modest size.” —Dr. Matthew Chen, Tourism Researcher at Southern Cross University

“The true beauty of Casino lies in how it seamlessly blends history with contemporary rural life. You can walk past buildings from the 1860s while enjoying modern amenities, all without the sense of forced ‘heritage’ that sometimes characterizes other historic towns.” —Elizabeth Wilson, Heritage Architect and Regional Consultant

“As Australia’s Beef Capital, Casino represents the backbone of our agricultural industry. The quality of beef produced here reflects the rich pastures of the Richmond Valley and the generations of knowledge passed down through farming families. Casino Beef Week isn’t just a festival—it’s a celebration of an industry that feeds our nation.” —Robert Jenkins, Executive Director of Australian Beef Association

These expert perspectives highlight Casino’s unique position as a town that authentically represents rural Australian life while offering rich historical and natural experiences for visitors.

“When photographing the Richmond River at dawn, use a polarizing filter to cut through morning glare on the water. This technique reveals the underwater environment where platypus forage, giving you dramatically better wildlife photos than standard shots. Many visitors miss this simple trick and leave without capturing Casino’s most unique resident.”—Amanda Liu, Professional Wildlife Photographer and Author

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Casino, NSW named after gambling?

No, Casino’s name has nothing to do with gambling establishments. Early settlers Henry Clay and George Stapleton named their property ‘Cassino’ after the beautiful town of Monte Cassino in Italy. Over time, this became the name of the town that developed there. Despite the name causing frequent confusion, Casino, NSW has no historical connection to gambling venues.

What is Casino, NSW famous for?

Casino is famous for being Australia’s Beef Capital. The town hosts the annual Casino Beef Week, a 12-day festival celebrating the region’s cattle industry. Additionally, Casino is known for the Big Golden Guitar landmark, its position along the Richmond River, and as a gateway to the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales.

How did Casino get the name ‘Beef Capital of Australia’?

Casino earned its title as the Beef Capital of Australia due to the massive scale of cattle operations in the surrounding Richmond Valley. Over 120,000 head of cattle are sold at the Casino Livestock Selling Centre each year, making it one of the largest cattle markets in Australia. The region’s fertile pastures and ideal grazing conditions have supported cattle farming since the 19th century.

What is the best time of year to visit Casino?

The best time to visit Casino is during autumn (March-May) or spring (September-November) when temperatures are mild, the river is ideal for wildlife spotting, and the risk of extreme weather is low. However, the peak event season is May during Casino Beef Week, when the town comes alive with agricultural exhibitions, rodeos, and culinary events celebrating the region’s cattle industry.

Are there any unique wildlife experiences in Casino?

Yes, one of Casino’s special attractions is the opportunity to spot platypus in their natural habitat. Stroll along the town’s riverbank near Irving Bridge early in the morning or evening for the best chance to see these rare and elusive creatures. The Platypus Pool near the town center offers visitors a rare viewing of these usually shy animals. Additionally, Richmond Park Wetlands and Sanctuary is home to a rich variety of birds including jabirus, egrets, ducks, and black swans.

What historical sites should I visit in Casino?

Must-visit historical sites include the Casino Museum (your starting point for the Heritage Walk), the heritage-listed post office first completed in 1879, Memorial Park with its cairn commemorating the crossing of the Richmond River by Europeans in 1840, St Marks Church of England built in 1904-1905, and the Cecil Hotel which was transported to its current site by bullock teams in 1919. Pick up a map from the Visitor Information Centre to follow the Federation Historic Scenic Walk past these important buildings.

How do I get around Casino once I’m there?

Casino is best explored by car as the town and surrounding attractions are spread out. While the town center is walkable, many attractions like the Big Golden Guitar, Richmond Park Wetlands, and various historical sites require short drives. Local bus services connect Casino to nearby towns like Kyogle, but having your own transportation provides the most flexibility to explore at your own pace.

What outdoor activities are available near Casino?

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy golf at Casino Golf Club (open to the public), birdwatching at Richmond Park Wetlands, miniature railway rides through the wetlands on Sundays, river walks along the Richmond River, fishing in local waterways, camping at Discovery Parks – Casino, and hiking in Richmond Range National Park. For spectacular views, drive west to the Mallanganee Lookout within the Richmond Range National Park.

Can I visit Aboriginal cultural sites near Casino?

Yes, there are Aboriginal rock carvings located 20 km out of Casino on the Tenterfield Road (the Bruxner Highway). Travelers can take guided tours to these culturally significant sites where organized groups gather at the corner of West Street and Queensland Road every Sunday between 10:00 a.m. The area was traditionally part of the lands inhabited by the Bundjalung Aborigines, and there are opportunities to learn about their culture and connection to this land.

What accommodation options are available in Casino?

Casino offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, including luxury lodges, boutique hotels, serviced apartments, motels, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, and backpacker hostels. Top choices include River Park Motor Inn, Squatters Homestead Motel (just 1,950 feet from the Richmond River), Discovery Parks – Casino, and heritage hotels like the Cecil Hotel. Most establishments offer GRS™ (Guest Rating Score™) ratings that provide an independent assessment of quality based on consumer reviews.

Is Casino safe for tourists to visit?

Yes, Casino is considered very safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, exercise normal precautions—secure your belongings, follow road rules when driving, be aware of weather conditions, and follow instructions at national parks. Casino is a welcoming country town where visitors are made to feel at home. Local emergency services are well-equipped to handle any situations that may arise.

What is the weather like in Casino throughout the year?

Casino experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Typical forecasts include winds southerly 15 to 20 km/h tending southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day, becoming light in the evening. There’s often a chance of fog inland in the early morning, particularly during cooler months. Summer temperatures average 25-30°C (77-86°F) while winter averages 10-18°C (50-64°F), making it pleasant to visit year-round.

Can I find online gambling opportunities while in Casino, NSW?

While the town is named Casino, it has no special connection to gambling establishments. Like all of New South Wales, online gambling is subject to state regulations. The Office of Liquor & Gaming NSW regulates gambling activities, and ensures that registered venues comply with security and fairness standards. For entertainment, visitors should focus on Casino’s natural beauty, festivals, and cultural attractions rather than expecting gambling opportunities.

How far is Casino from major cities like Sydney and Brisbane?

Casino is located 726 kilometers (451 miles) north of Sydney and 228 kilometers (142 miles) south of Brisbane. By car, it’s approximately an eight-hour drive north of Sydney and a three-hour drive south of Brisbane. NSW TrainLink provides daily Casino XPT services from Sydney taking approximately 11 hours 25 minutes, with 4 services daily.