The Bourke Wharf is a replica of the original wharves in Bourke. The area was considered to have little prospects for commercial activity. In the late 1850s, the Darling River was opened up as a key transport route, and river communities like Bourke grew as important transport centres.
While the wharf is a replica, it has been constructed showing how the design of the wharf caters for the varying levels of water that occurs on the Darling River.
Bales of wool were towed down the river by paddle steamers, but eventually, river transport was replaced when other forms of transport became available, and the last commercial riverboat finished in 1931.
The Crossley Engine 
is at the same location as the wharf and can be seen together in the one stop.
To get there:
If coming into Bourke from the south along Kidman Way, entering town continue straight ahead for about 1.2km, and turn left into Mitchell St. After 230m, turn right into Sturt St at the brown sign for Wharf, and the parking area for the wharf is in about 50m.
If coming into Bourke from the south along Mitchell Hwy, entering town continue straight ahead for about 1.3km, and turn right into Richard St (continuation of Mitchell Hwy). Continue for 600m, and turn left into Mitchell St. After 230m, turn right into Sturt St at the brown sign for Wharf, and the parking area for the wharf is in about 50m.
If coming into Bourke from the north along Mitchell Hwy, continue passed the Back O’ Bourke Exhibition Centre for 1.1km. Turn right into Mitchell St, and follow for 950m, and turn right into Sturt St at the brown sign for Wharf, and the parking area for the wharf is in about 50m.
If coming into Bourke from the north along Kamilaroi Hwy, entering town continue straight ahead for about 1.5km, becoming Mitchell St. Turn right into Sturt St at the brown sign for Wharf, and the parking area for the wharf is in about 50m.
Cost: Free
Hours: Anytime
Toilets: Yes
Bins: Yes
Tables: Yes
Seating: Yes
Water: Yes, at toilets sink
Food: Yes, cafe near the wharf, next to Crossley Engine
Wheelchair accessible: Yes
Pets: Yes
BBQ: No
Playground: No