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This basalt-capped plateau at the south end of the Mount Royal Range forms part of the catchment area for two river systems draining to the Pacific coast: the Hunter River to the south and the Manning River to the north. It is an area which has been greatly dissected by river valleys and hence contains much rugged terrain, with spectacular waterfalls and attractive scenery. Many parts of the plateau are clad in forests of eucalypts and dense semi-tropical vegetation.

Native animals and birds are abundant—kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, lyrebirds, brush turkeys and eagles can be seen in their natural habitat in the remoter parts of the plateau. It is a popular bushwalking region, and offers trout fishing for stream anglers. The highest parts of the plateau reach 1,586m above sea level, with a number of minor peaks over 1,500m.

The Barrington Tops National Park covers an area of 16,325ha on the northern escarpment of the Hunter Valley. Access to the area is usually via Dungog, then by road up the Williams River valley to Barring-ton House; from there on, the visitor must use rough tracks, either on foot or by four-wheel-drive vehicle. There is an alternative access route from Gloucester to the eastern section of the plateau, called Gloucester Tops.

Heavy rain and snowfalls on the plateau are not uncommon, and sudden weather changes can occur. Because of these unpredictable conditions, bushwalkers are requested to notify the ranger in charge of the park about their journey plans. During periods of heavy rain, roads may be cut at fords, or made impassable by falling trees.

Lavender is any of a group of plants and shrubs that yield a fragrant oil. Lavenders are native chiefly to the Mediterranean region, but some of them are cultivated in other parts of the world, such as Australia.

The most widely raised species is the common lavender (Lavandula officinalis), which grows from 1 to 3 feet tall. Its narrow leaves have rolled edges, and in younger plants they are covered with downy white hair. The small flowers, usually blue or deep purple, are borne in dense clusters. The petals of the common lavender are the major source of oil of lavender, used to make perfumes, soaps, and medicines.

Lavenders are propagated by cuttings and they grow best in light, fairly dry soil. They require large amounts of sunlight and are easily injured by frost. Lavenders are classified as the genus Lavandula of the family Labiatae. They are actually a part of the mint family.

Lavender Tops is a lavender farm situated at Wards River where the old school still stands. The lavender is harvested and sold at various outlets, such as the Crafty Friends Co-Op in Stroud in the form of oils, soaps, fragrances and other products. You can find out more about Lavender Tops here.