Kempsey

Kempsey is a town situated along the Macleay River in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, approximately 16 kilometres inland from the Pacific Ocean. It serves as the administrative center for Kempsey Shire and provides regional services to surrounding communities.

The town was founded in 1836 when Enoch William Rudder purchased land along the river and developed private building blocks. This establishment marked the beginning of European settlement in a region previously inhabited by the Djangadi people.

The Djangadi people maintained a strong presence in this region for over 4,000 years before European settlement began in the nineteenth century.

Visitors can reach the town easily via the Pacific Highway and North Coast railway line, both running through its center. The town has shops, restaurants, and accommodation options mainly concentrated along the main commercial areas and near the river.

The Macleay River runs through the center of Kempsey, intersecting with both the Pacific Highway and the North Coast railway line.

Location: New South Wales

Location: Kempsey Shire

Location: Yarravel

Elevation above the sea: 12 m

Shares border with: West Kempsey, East Kempsey, Hampden Hall, Pola Creek, South Kempsey, Frederickton, Austral Eden

GPS coordinates: -31.08194,152.83500

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:20