Coonabarabran is located in mid northern NSW at the eastern junction of the Newell and Oxley Highways. Situated on the Castlereagh River, the town is nestled in a pretty valley amongst the Warrumbungle Ranges. Settled in the early 1840's, the town grew slowly around the wool and wheat industries with timber eventually becoming prominent due to the close proximity of Pilliga Scrub to the north. While nowadays serving as a rural centre, Coonabarabran is also popular due to the nearby Warrumbungle Ranges and remains an important stop for motorists due to its key highway position. Of interest include the well kept CBD and parkland abutting the Castlereagh Highway, Siding Springs Observatory (25km west - a well known observatory which features Australia's largest telescope), Skywatch Day/Night Observatory (2km south) and Crystal Kingdom (in town).

Population: 3,500
State: New South Wales
Name Origin: Aboriginal origin - meaning currently unknown
Pronunciation: Coo-na-bar-a-bran
Postcode: 2357
Local Government: Warrumbungle Shire Council
Location: 504km north-west of Sydney
Main Roads: Newell Highway , Oxley Highway 
Main Watercourses: Castlereagh River
Radio Stations (Music): Triple G (97.5), Now FM (98.3), Triple J (99.9) 

Photos from Coonabarabran (Click on thumbnail for full sized image):
 

	Southern entrance to Coonabarabran on the Newell/Oxley Hwy (2002).
	Looking south along John St (Newell/Oxley Hwys), approaching the Dalgarno St roundabout (2003).
	Looking north along John St (Newell/Oxley Hwys) approaching Edwards St, Coonabarabran (2002).
	Chappell Ave (Newell/Oxley Hwys), looking south in Coonabarabran (2003).