Smithtown

Life in sister-city, Smithtown (formerly West Gladstone) flows just as leisurely with the tide. Fishers launch a boat, throw in a line and watch sunlight turn the Macleay River's reflective surface into millions of glistening diamonds. It is a favourite spot for canoeists too.

Clinging to a droplet of land jutting into a V-shaped bend of the Macleay River and framed by emerald green dairy farms, Smithtown's wide, quiet streets speak of a prosperous past. A pleasant stroll through town passes 20 historic buildings or sites, including the Smithtown School of Arts built in 1900.

A small shopping centre tempts visitors to browse, dine at the local hotel or enjoy takeaway down on the wharf.