Dubbo, NSW

As a hub of the Central-West of NSW, Dubbo has a lot going for it. We all know the zoo of course, but this region has so much more to offer than meerkats. Carly from Country to Coast EA and I spent a week working from The Exchange and exploring Dubbo in lunch breaks and after work. We discovered some inspiring regional businesses, met some wonderful people, and are already planning our next annual trip back to the western plains!

THE EXCHANGE

Where co-working meets community. The Exchange in Dubbo is the brain-child and passion project of the indefatigable Jillian Kilby. Located in the historic, but oh-so-stylishly renovated Old Clock Tower, The Exchange is an innovation hub for small and start-up businesses in regional NSW. This beautiful place is so much more than a co-working office space. It provides a support network, mentoring and a home for solopreneurs, side-hustles and small businesses.

“Where co-working meets community… The Exchange is an innovation hub for small and start-up businesses.”

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As two small regionally-focussed businesses, we were made to feel right at home. We had a stunning private office to ourselves, but ventured out for the energy and atmosphere that is so carefully fostered in The Exchange. There are so many elements of ‘an office’ that you lose when you work for yourself; some are happily missed, others not so. Learning from others, gaining fresh perspectives, meeting inspiring other businesses, brainstorming and collaborating – this is where the magic is. And what The Exchange prides itself is providing in spades.

If you need a hit of creativity, community and collaboration – book yourself in and absorb all the good vibes.

THE REPOSE

A long-time member of my ‘to-stay’ list, The Repose has to be one of the most charming and beautiful short-term rentals out there. This perfectly curated, but effortlessly cosy cottage is the perfect base to explore Dubbo and the surrounds.

Styled by creative queen Jemima Aldridge from Saddler & Co, there is not a single detail too small or seemingly too minor to have been overlooked. It was honestly more breath-taking in person, and that’s no small feat given how beautiful it looks online. This has to be one of the best Airbnb’s I’ve ever stayed at – I cannot recommend this place more.

Highlights

Stay

The Repose

Shop

Saddler & Co, Frank and Enid

Eat

Tanoshi, Alchemy

Coffee

Jimmy Barnett Espresso, Press