The Australia Telescope Compact Array is one of the best detours in the district: six huge white dishes, each 22 metres across, set on rails in open farmland west of town. It is working science, not a theme park, which is part of the appeal.
The public viewing area explains what the array does and lets you see the dishes in their flat, quiet setting. It pairs well with Yarrie Lake or a longer drive through the Pilliga.