WAUCHOPE Wauchope is a small town encounted when traveling the Port Macquarie to Armidale route. (The Oxley Hgy). Being so close to the ‘big centre’ Wauchope is nearly an outer suburb of Port Macquarie. But don’t tell the locals. Wauchope is definitely its own centre and even has its own hospital. Wauchope is an interesting town and a longish visit will be required to get the best out of the place. Wauchope is also the location of Timbertown, a popular heritage theme park based around the Logging Industry that formed the basis for Wauchope's early economy and prosperity. The town has a population of approximately 7,500 (as of 2006 - including King Creek & Redbank). The Museum is located adjacent to the theme park. By 1828 a number of land grants had been made along the Hastings River. It was not until 1836 that the village of Wauchope first came into existence. In that year Captain Robert Andrew Wauch (whose father dropped the 'ope' from the end of his name as a result of a family dispute) paid a deposit on 760 acres (3.1 km2) on King Creek. He bought more property and built Wauch House. Robert Wauch died in the area in 1866, and the Government Gazette published the deeds of his properties, specifying that they should be called Wauchope. Timbertown the best-known attraction, is a colonial-era themed village attraction, which is located on the outskirts of Wauchope. It features static displays and attractions such as a working steam train and working bullocks. Wauchope has a mix of old and new congregational churches. The Anglican an interesting design. The United and Presbyterian century old traditional building. The Star Hotel is a 100 year plus hotelier. The Hastings Hotel is likewise old, and there is a tavern on the western fringe. The Wauchope War Memorial has a great can’t be missed profile. Wauchope boasts one of the nicest tree lined shopping precincts. There are a small number of heritage type buildings that have survived progress, but the town is clearly heritage motivated. The town has so much to offer a stopover or daytrip will be essential.