Port Macquarie (pop. 33,700) is situated on the Hastings River and is 398km north of Sydney. Port Macquarie is the third oldest European settlement on mainland Australia and along with Port Arthur and Norfolk Island was one of five penal settlements and an important factor in Australia's history. It was established in 1821 as a place of secondary punishment to receive convicts who had transgressed the law for a second time after transportation to New South Wales. It still retains vestiges of the early penal settlement, including St Thomas' Church, the former hospital dispensary, several wells and archaeological remains.

Port Macquarie is a joy to visit. The town is located on the Pacific Ocean and Hastings River. It offers a rare combination of old and new and the locals are very friendly. Bookings can be made at the Sundowner Breakwall Tourist Park by phoning 02 6583-2755.