Partridge VC Rest Area, Hume Highway

The Partridge VC Rest Area is a major, modern, and well-equipped rest stop located on the southbound side of the Hume Highway (M31) at Menangle, on the south-western outskirts of the Sydney metropolitan area. As one of the primary rest facilities for drivers heading south from Sydney towards Canberra, Melbourne, and the Southern Highlands, it is a crucial point for managing driver fatigue. The site is named in honour of Private Frank John Partridge, the last and youngest Australian to be awarded the Victoria Cross in the Second World War. [Image of the Victoria Cross medal] This dedication adds a layer of historical significance to this functional and busy highway facility.

This is a large, sealed, and professionally designed rest area suitable for all types of vehicles, from cars to the largest B-Double trucks. It features a drive-through layout with separate, clearly marked parking areas for light and heavy vehicles, ensuring safety and ease of access for everyone. Unlike remote bush camps, the Partridge VC Rest Area is a day-use facility focused on short-term rest and recuperation rather than overnight camping. It is equipped with excellent amenities, including a clean toilet block, numerous covered picnic tables, and rubbish bins. The presence of these facilities makes it a very popular stop for families and long-distance truck drivers alike. Being on the fringe of Sydney, it has excellent mobile phone reception and is conveniently close to the extensive services of nearby Campbelltown and Camden, making it an ideal place to take a break and plan the next leg of a journey.

Partridge VC Rest Area – NSW Location Map

Name: Partridge VC Rest Area
Address: Hume Highway, Menangle NSW 2568, Australia
GPS Coordinates: -34.15666, 150.7386

Site Information

Location: Southbound on the Hume Highway (M31), south of Campbelltown, near the Menangle Park exit.
Site Suitable For: All vehicles, including cars, caravans, motorhomes, and big rigs.
Road Access: Sealed motorway access.
Site Surface: Sealed (asphalt).
Camping Permitted: No, this is a day-use rest area. Maximum stay limits may apply (e.g., 24 hours for heavy vehicles).
Maximum Overnight Stays: Not intended for overnight recreational camping.
Picnic Tables: Yes, numerous covered tables are available.
Potable Water: Yes, drinking water is typically available from taps at the amenities block.
Mobile Phone Coverage: Excellent coverage for all major carriers.
TV Reception: Good terrestrial TV reception.
Onsite Public Toilets: Yes, a well-maintained toilet block is available.
Ullage / Dump Point: Not available onsite.
Drive Through: Yes, with separate lanes and parking for heavy and light vehicles.
Rubbish Bins: Yes, numerous bins are provided.
Open Fires: Strictly prohibited.
Generator Use: Not appropriate for this busy day-use area.
Number of Sites Available: Many marked parking bays for all vehicle sizes.
Essentials to Bring: Not applicable for a short rest stop.
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are permitted on a leash and there is a designated pet exercise area.
Fishing: Not applicable.
Short Walks: Paved pathways around the rest area.

Local Amenities (in Campbelltown/Camden, approx. 10-15km north)

Pubs & Eateries

The George Hotel, Picton: Approx. 15km south-west. A historic pub with a classic feel.
Camden Valley Inn: Approx. 15km north-west. A large, popular inn with extensive dining options.
Rydges Campbelltown: Features the OTIS Bar and Grill for a more upmarket dining experience.
Campbelltown offers a vast array of restaurants, cafes, fast-food outlets, and major supermarkets.

Local Attractions

Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan: Approx. 10km north. A world-class botanic garden with extensive grounds.
Camden Park House and Garden: A historic colonial estate offering tours (check for opening times).
Campbelltown Arts Centre: A major regional gallery and cultural venue.

Caravanning & Camping Supplies

Nearest Caravan Parks: Poplar Tourist Park (Camden), various parks in the Southern Highlands.
Next Free Camps: Other highway rest areas further south, such as the Kingsbury VC or Chowne VC rest areas. Free camping is not available in the suburban area.
Nearest Dump Points: Check with local caravan parks (a fee may apply) or the Camden Council website.
Nearest Petrol Station: Major service centres are located a short distance north and south on the Hume Highway.
Drinking Water Resupply: Available onsite.
Nearest Public Toilets: Available onsite.

Seasonal Weather Forecast

The Menangle area experiences a temperate climate typical of the Sydney basin. Summers are warm to hot and can be quite humid, with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are mild and cool, with chilly nights but generally pleasant, sunny days. Autumn and spring offer the most comfortable weather for travelling, with warm days and mild nights. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year.