TRAILS
Our Hilltops Region offers a host of experiences to soothe after a busy working week, or stimulate the senses and the appetite. Explore this page to plan where you'll go and what to do as you explore our beautiful Hilltops Region.
With accommodation, food and wine to comfort, we're a convenient and welcoming destination for those wanting fresh local produce, to explore history, to exercise, to enjoy the natural world or just to unwind. Treat yourself to the Hilltops Wine Trail. Find a treasure on the Heritage trail. Stretch your legs and explore and enjoy the Panoramic Views and River Walks. on the Nature and Outdoors trail. As the seasons change so do the landscapes. All three trails take you through rolling agricultural scenery. During Spring time our region is framed by brilliant bright yellow canola and blossoming fruit trees landscapes. Whichever season you choose you'll be impressed by the beautiful scenery.
Tantalise your tastebuds through the food, wine and local produce offerings.
JUGIONG
Set on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, Jugiong is a popular rest stop for thousands of Sydney - Melbourne travelers; stock up on local wines at the Jugiong Wine Cellar, call into the recently restored, historic Sir George or visit the country style Long Track Pantry
EXPLORE JUGIONG
HARDEN - MURRUMBURRAH
The journey north from Jugiong towards Harden takes in rolling countryside. In historic Murrumburrah be sure to stop by the Light Horse Hotel for a beautiful meal or a deconstructed Gin board or visit the Irish Terracotta Restaurant.
EXPLORE HARDEN - MURRUMBURRAH
WOMBAT
The Wombat Grog Shed cellar door is open by appointment or visit the Wombat Pub for a wood-fired pizza to accompany a glass of local wine.
EXPLORE WOMBAT
YOUNG
With six cellar doors, Young is the heart of the Hilltops Wine Region, you can pick up a cellar door guide from the Young Region Visitor Information Centre located in the old railway station. For dinner visit one of our restaurants for delicious food and a glass of local wine. If you were after something a little more laid back, try a counter meal in one of Young’s local pubs and club. You will also find Chinese, Thai, Indian & Italian options.
EXPLORE YOUNG
BOOROWA
For a classic country, culinary experience you can’t go past the Boorowa Pubs, in winter sit by a wood fire with a hearty meal and a glass of local red.
EXPLORE BOOROWA
From country towns to small villages, history is built into the fabric of the Hilltops Region
RUGBY
Twenty minutes North-East of Boorowa, Rugby was built when the Walla Walla Mines operated. The community buildings give a fine display of brick work and the two churches sit perched along the slope on the opposite side of the road.
EXPLORE RUGBY
BOOROWA
Begin at the former Court House now the Boorowa Arts & Craft Visitor Information Centre and collect a copy of the Shamrock Trail, a sixty-minute walk that will take you to many of the heritage listed buildings in Boorowa, including St Patrick’s Church & the octagonal War Memorial.
Enjoy a stroll along the river on the newly constructed walking paths, a great starting point is located in the memorial park area below the war memorial in Mardsen Street.
EXPLORE BOOROWA
MURRINGO
The oldest village in the Hilltops Region, Murringo has several Georgian cottages. Fine stone buildings including the church & 1862 Schoolhouse line the main road. You will find Taubman & Webb Trading Post in the refurbished “Hancock’s Store”. Visit the Murringo Barracks Art Gallery.
Wander around the Murringo Memorial Hall, rest up on the chairs in the park land next to the hall.
EXPLORE MURRINGO
KOORAWATHA
Take the Murringo Gap Road through the range of hills to Koorawatha at the northern edge of the region. The village was the site of a notable 1860’s-gun battle between Ben Hall's gang of bushrangers and the police at the Bang Bang Hotel.
EXPLORE KOORAWATHA
IANDRA CASTLE
Iandra Castle built in the Elizabethan style with a tall tower and 57 rooms is a private homestead open to the public on select days throughout the year, although visitors are welcome to look from the road any time. The property also features a Barn, Caretakers Cottage and Church.
EXPLORE IANDRA CASTLE
MONTEAGLE
The Rustic Maze and Country Garden ( open by appointment, groups preferred) located along Jerrybang Lane. Home to a wide Federation style homestead or visit the refurbished Shearers Quarters café for lunch. Travel on through the township and view the historic local cemetery on Sads Lane.
Check the Whats On for Open Days for the Maze
EXPLORE MONTEAGLE
YOUNG
First stop is the Young & Region Visitor Information Centre the 1885 Railway Station, to collect a copy of the Rotary Sponsored Young Heritage Walk. Highlights of the walk include the Great Court House built in 1886 & the Old Young Public School in the Free Classical Style. The location of were gold was first found and more.
EXPLORE YOUNG
WOMBAT
South of Young on the Olympic Highway is the village of Wombat - have a meal at the local pub, NSW's oldest continually licensed premises.
Check out the possibility of finding a treasure at Wombat 2nds & Salvage.
Enjoy a coffee or light lunch at the Wombat Cottage, call into Made In Wombat for that locally made gift. And don't forget to picture of the little Wombat On The Rock.
EXPLORE WOMBAT
HARDEN MURRUMBURRAH
Follow the road through Wombat village and south towards the twin towns of Harden Murrumburrah. Distinctive church spires and towers give a dramatic silhouette to the twin towns. Visit the Harden Murrumburrah Visitor Information Centre for your copy of the Harden & Murrumburrah Trails. Built for the Railway both towns boast beautiful Brick Buildings including the Mechanics Institute in Harden’s main business district & The Murrumburrah School of Arts Building.
The township area of Murrumbuurah now boasts Silo Art by Heesco and a tribute to the Australian Light Horse, with a memorial park and several sculptures, including the famous war horse " Bill The Bastard" and Major-General James Alexander Kenneth Mackay, CB, OBE, VD.
EXPLORE HARDEN MURRUMBURRAH
JUGIONG
Visit the lovingly restored Sir George Pub located on your left as you come into Jugiong or drive up the Hill to the Catholic Church of St John Evangelist (1850s). The Roam Catholic Cemetery sits on its own at the eastern edge of the village – one particularly interesting gravestone, with three crowns on top, was wrought by the famous marble-mason Rusconi of Gundagai. The Sargent Parry Memorial.
EXPLORE JUGIONG
GALONG
Visit St Clement’s Monastery & Conference Centre in a historic monastery on a 300-hectre property. Galong also has a remarkable walled cemetery of historical significance. Bookings Required.
EXPLORE GALONG
Discover the History of Boorowa
COURT HOUSE 1884
Judge Forbes presided over the first case in the Court House in January 1886. No longer a courthouse, it has been the Visitor Information Centre and an Arts and Craft Shop and Tea Room since 1988. The Original Court Fittings remain. Open daily
EXPLORE COURT HOUSE 1884
ST PATRICK'S CHURCH
The church has outstanding stained glass windows and marble altars.
The south windows, above the main entrance, were imported from Ireland in 1881 and depict Daniel O’Connell, the Liberator of Ireland, with the saints Patrick, Bridget and Columbia. Open daily.
EXPLORE ST PATRICK'S CHURCH
THE DAIRY
This rare slab dwelling was the residence of one of the town’s first dairymen. The house was in two sections – living quarters at the front and amenities at the rear. These are still clearly visible though they were connected in later years with more living space. The slab shed at the rear was moved from the adjoining block. The house was named Dendavilleigh by the current owners. Private residence
EXPLORE THE DAIRY
POST OFFICE
The original Post Office (1874) adjoins this building and is now a private residence. It was originally known as the Burrowa Post Office but was changed to Boorowa in 1914 to conform with the other public buildings.
EXPLORE POST OFFICE
GUILD HALL 1909
Built for the Holy Catholic Guild, it was used for social functions and later the Empire Theatre. The Guild also conducted the St. Patrick’s Day Carnival. The building is basically unchanged
EXPLORE GUILD HALL 1909
CROWN INN 1853
The original hotel was a little further down Pudman Street. The inn changed its name to the Court House Hotel in 1866 as local court sittings were held there. The present building was constructed in 1908
EXPLORE CROWN INN 1853
BURROWA NEWS PRINTERY 1936
The Burrowa News was first printed in
1874. This building housed the paper from 1936 to the war years. The masthead was changed to the Boorowa News in 1951. The original name remains on the building façade.
EXPLORE BURROWA NEWS PRINTERY 1936
J.J. CUMMINS BUILDING 1919
Mr. Cummins was a builder, carpenter, and furniture manufacturer. Additions were made in 1922 and 1927 to accommodate his expanding business. In 1951 a fire destroyed the timber yards and residence.
EXPLORE J.J. CUMMINS BUILDING 1919
WAR MEMORIAL
Constructed of local bricks, Western Australian jarrah flooring, Queensland
maple windows and a doorstep of Hawkesbury sandstone this eye catching
monument serves as the focal point for Anzac remembrance and the RSL meeting room. Note the clock uses the ANZAC letters instead of numerals.
EXPLORE WAR MEMORIAL
UNION BANK 1930
The bank commenced business in Burrowa in 1885. This building, opened in 1930, features a central arch, which was the distinguishing feature of their branches. The merger with the Bank of Australasia in 1951 created the ANZ Bank. This branch closed in 1996.
EXPLORE UNION BANK 1930
SHAMROCK BASE 1989
This base marks one hundred years of local government in Boorowa and
commemorates Patrick Ryan the first Mayor (1889–1890 & 1904–1905) Behind is the current council building which was completed in 1956.
EXPLORE SHAMROCK BASE 1989
CENTRAL HOTEL 1912
The first hotel built on this site was the Harp of Erin in 1876. The slab and galvanised iron building was destroyed by fire in 1911. This double-storey building replaced it and was named the Central Hotel. The hotel closed in 1998.
EXPLORE CENTRAL HOTEL 1912
MURPHY BROTHERS 1919-28
The original slab and iron store (c 1880) was replaced in two stages by builder J.J. Cummins. Note the beautiful custom made counters and the unusual interior-lit lead light in the ceiling
EXPLORE MURPHY BROTHERS 1919-28
MODEL STORE 1918
Many of the town’s early businesses faced Market Street. The Learmont Family built this double-storey building to replace their store in Market Street. It has 17,000 square feet of retail space. Note the central staircase to the galleried upper level and the stained glass windows
EXPLORE MODEL STORE 1918
BANK OF NSW
The bank opened in Wentworth House in 1866. It later moved to Market Street and subsequently to a bungalow-style building facing Marsden Street. This building is still visible behind the extension to the street added in 1956. The bank was renamed Westpac in 1981. The branch closed in 2000.
EXPLORE BANK OF NSW
GEORGE PATTERSON STORE
One of the few buildings constructed of pise (rammed mud) known to still exist in a commercial precinct. The building has had many uses including that of an undertaker. The building opened as the Boorowa Museum in 1975. Open Saturday 10.00am – 12 noon, or by appointment.
EXPLORE GEORGE PATTERSON STORE
ROYAL STANDARD HOTEL 1880
The last hotel to be built in Boorowa. First a single-storey structure, the second floor was added in 1905. Note the different brickwork at the side and the original footpath flagging. The last additions were in 1924. The name was subsequently changed to Boorowa Hotel.
EXPLORE ROYAL STANDARD HOTEL 1880
STAR HOTEL 1867
The name was changed to Clonoulty in 1874 by the third licensee William Corcoran after his home village in Ireland. The hotel became a boarding house in 1895 and is now restored as a private residence
EXPLORE STAR HOTEL 1867
GLENARA 1866
This Victorian Georgian six bedroom residence was built for the owner of the Burrowa Union Flour Mill. The building retains most of its original features
EXPLORE GLENARA 1866
MILL MANAGER'S HOUSE
This picturesque little cottage was built for the Manager of the then adjoining Flour Mill. The cottage remains in its original form as a private residence
EXPLORE MILL MANAGER'S HOUSE
J.J KERSHAW STORE
Unique for it's time, this store had a pine planked footpath and stone guttering, later to be replaced by flagstones. The interior was remodeled extensively with timber in 1907 and remains in this condition today.
EXPLORE J.J KERSHAW STORE
ST. PATRICK'S CHURCH
The site of the first Catholic church which was built from stone rubble with a shingle roof. On good Friday 1865 a portion of the ceiling fell on worshippers. Though repaired it was decided that a new church was needed. The church has decayed with time.
EXPLORE ST. PATRICK'S CHURCH
ELLERSLIE
A notable owner of this house was Dr. Le Fevre, who practised in Boorowa for 40 years, retiring in 1947. He was related to the explorer Hume's family through marriage to Vera Hume in 1912. Their house is typical of a townsman who was "comfortably off". The detached kitchen is still nticeable though it has since been connected to the house. Private residence.
EXPLORE ELLERSLIE
WENTWORTH HOUSE
Anything and everything of the best quality could be purchased here. Once the most significant emporium in Burrowa, it was a grand renovation of a neglected hotel. The building was almost destroyed by fire in 1914. A reminder of its splendor can be seen in the two-storey section on the eastern side, with its wrought iron enclosed balcony. The single storey section was rebuilt in 1915.
EXPLORE WENTWORTH HOUSE
ROYAL HOTEL
This is the oldest hotel in Bo0orowa and retains its initial structure including the footpath of sandstone slabs. It was a single-storey building until `925 when a second floor was added. The hotel guest list boasted many prominent people of the time including John Dunmore Lang and Banjo Patterson. The hotel was renamed the Ram and Stallion in 1989.
EXPLORE ROYAL HOTEL
MECHANICS INSTITUTE
Established to 'educate and elevate the tone of the town' the institute boasted 2000 books by the year 1900. It was a popular venue for social functions and later the towns first picture show. In 1901, Banjo Patterson spoke at a political rally. The building was occupied by the Country Women's Association from 1937 to 2000. During World War II, the building housed a silk knit factory.
EXPLORE MECHANICS INSTITUTE
BOOROWA RAILWAY STATION
The residents of Burrowa first petitioned for a railway line in 1869. Their request took 45 years to be realised with a spur line being built from Galong. The passenger service was discontinued in 1983 and the station demolished. The railway continued to transport grain and wool until 1987. The twin silos built in 1929 are still used for grain storage.
EXPLORE BOOROWA RAILWAY STATION
ST. JAMES CHURCH
The Presbyterian Church opened in 1885 and the adjoining manse in 1890. The church was closed in 1982 and the property sold. Private residence.
EXPLORE ST. JAMES CHURCH
ST. JOHNS CHURCH
The church of England used 70,000 locally made bricks and 9,000 feet of timber. Some of the stained glass windows were donated by the Hume family. A resident clergyman was appointed in 1866 and the rectory built in 1875. The lych gate was added in 1928 as a First World War Memorial. Open daily from 10:00am - 5:00pm
EXPLORE ST. JOHNS CHURCH
BURROWA PUBLIC SCHOOL
The initial school, now a part of the residence, was a single classroom with an enrolment of 50 students. School fees were ninepence a week for a single student to one shilling for a family of four. A new public school of two classrooms was built in 1892 with additional rooms added in 1934. The name was changed to Boorowa Central School in 1958.
EXPLORE BURROWA PUBLIC SCHOOL
THE LAURELS
This house was built for the Stevenson family who were influential in the towns commercial life and also owned Wentworth house. This colonial-style house retains the original detached kitchen, servants quarters and stables. Private residence
EXPLORE THE LAURELS
WESLEYAN CHURCH
A tea meeting in 1867 raised 60 pounds towards the ultimate cost of 363 pounds. In 1902 it became a Methodist church and in 1977 a Uniting church. The church was restored in 1996. The adjoining parsonage, which is now a private residence, was built in 1917. Church inspection by appointment.
EXPLORE WESLEYAN CHURCH
SHAMROCK COTTAGE
The site of the first Queen Arms Hotel, and changed to Shamrock Hotel in 1877. The slab and pise hotel has been demolished but the licensee's cottage and a storage building at the rear have survived. The storeroom is the oldest building still standing in Boorowa. The hotel was the start and finish for the town racecourse. Private Residence.
EXPLORE SHAMROCK COTTAGE
MILL COTTAGE
This bluestone building was constructed beside one of Boorowa's two flour mills. First used as a residence it was later (1878) converted to a bakery. The remnants of the baking ovens can still be seen. Private residence.
EXPLORE MILL COTTAGE
WEBB & CREGO'S
Henry Webb and John Crego had a store constructed of local bricks on this site. The store had 16 rooms and an outbuilding to store dynamite, which is all that remains today. Their best known customer was bushranger Ben Hall, who outfitted himself at gun point in 1863. Private Property.
EXPLORE WEBB & CREGO'S
ORIENTAL BANK
The Oriental Bank operated here until its suspension in 1884. The building was then occupied by the Commercial Bank until 1893 when it too was suspended. The Union Bank purchased the property in 1898 and operated here until 1930. The Bank and outbuildings remain as constructed including the streetscape sign. Private Residence.
EXPLORE ORIENTAL BANK
CARPENTER'S ARMS HOTEL
Successive licensee's gave it a different name-Telegraph, Burrowa's, Farmer's Arms and Finally the Queen's Arms when it was purchased by the licensee of the first hotel bearing that name. The original building was demolished in 1914 to be replaced by a weatherboard structure. The hotel closed in 1925 and was then used as a boarding house and later as a general store. Private property.
EXPLORE CARPENTER'S ARMS HOTEL
COURT STREET
Original main street of Burrowa. This double-storey building was a produce store that was enlarged in 1927 to accommodate a farm machinery business. Next was the billiard hall (vacant block), then the White Rose Cafe. Further along was the barbershop, a haberdashery, the drapery store, which under previous occupiers had been a dentist and a gunsmith. On the opposite side the first Post and Telegraph Office can still be seen behind the Ram and Stallion Hotel.
EXPLORE COURT STREET
MUNICIPAL CHAMBERS
Boorowa was proclaimed a municipality in 1888. Six alderman were appointed the following year and met in the Mechanics Institute. A prize of five pounds was awarded to the designer of this building. Council first met here on the 10th January, 1910. The names of the first six mayors appear above the door. The Council moved to new facilities in 1956.
EXPLORE MUNICIPAL CHAMBERS
BOER WAR MEMORIAL
George Tom Cooper was a member of the NSW Bushman Contingent in the Boer War. He was killed in action on the 12th October 1900. This memorial was paid for by public subscription.
EXPLORE BOER WAR MEMORIAL
BOOROWA RECREATION GROUND
The survey of 1850 set aside 95 acres in the centre of the town for recreation. The reserve was divided by Ryan's Creek and dedicated in 1881. You are invited to rest a while - BBQ, child play facilities and public toilets are provided.
EXPLORE BOOROWA RECREATION GROUND
MARKET STREET
Stroll back up Market Street and let your imagination wander. In the early days of Boorowa this was the main street. There was a large two-storey general store and other shops, the Telegraph Office, the Bank of New South Wales, a builder and the Commercial Hotel. The remaining monument to those early entrepreneurs is a few sections of brick wall.
EXPLORE MARKET STREET
Discover the history and heritage of Young
YOUNG RAILWAY STATION
Trains arrived in Young 25 years after the Gold Rush began in 1860. Surveyors set the tracks on the longest level ground in the town : the Public School, Temperance and Masonic Halls and Congregational Church "in the road' were demolished. The station is a perfect example of the High Victorian era when the State was 'rolling in cash' from the mining boom : Italianate-Gothic of brick with (under the paint) sandstone dressings, high roofs and ornate cast-iron verandas. Daily, seven trains each way covered 30 kilometres to meet the main Sydney-Melbourne line at Harden; on Saturdays weddings were in the morning and bridal couples set off on their honeymoon on the 12:30pm train and the steam loco tooted "Cock-a-doodle-doo!" all the way up the hill. In 2008 the building was heritage listed after restoration and became Young's Visitor Information Centre. There have been moves to open the Harden to Blayney (via Cowra) line by private enterprise. To this day the branch line being the Demondrile to Blayney Line remains closed.
EXPLORE YOUNG RAILWAY STATION
BIG RED CHERRIES
Financed by several local businesses and orchardists to advertise the district as the leading cherry-producing centre in Australia. The soft-fruit industry began with Croatian immigrants arriving during the Gold Rush; they planted fruits they knew. Over the years cherry varieties have been selected to cope with the dry summer; the season lasts from November to mid January. Cherry Festival is late November/early December when the town attracts many tourists.
EXPLORE BIG RED CHERRIES
EMPIRE HOTEL
A fine example of the Australian style of country hotel, "The Empire" is the only one in town retaining its original character (1880's), ornate cast-iron veranda and gabled brick parapets. This Hotel is now closed ans does not operate as a hotel.
EXPLORE EMPIRE HOTEL
MAIN STREET (1)
This was the first street on the goldfield, starting at the Main Creek (now Burrangong Creek) where the first gold was found by Dennis Regan and Alexander the Yankee on the Lambing Flat in June 1860. The commercial district grew from the creek : tents or slab and bark huts - pubs, "shanties" (for drinking and gambling), Chinese opium dens and stores selling provisions, clothing and merchandise. From about 1870, Boorowa Street became the main business street, crossing Main Street at the next intersection. Although the importance of Main Street lessened, several Chinese traders continued here until the late 20th Century as green-grocers and general merchants. The lane to the right is called "Lightning Lane" because in 1889 the Borough Council of Young installed a steam power plant next to the Tow Hall to generate electricity (the first local government to provide lighting to streets and premises in the British Empire - ahead of Sydney, Melbourne or London). Power lines went along the lane as far as Mclerie Street.
On the right at he Boorowa Street intersection is the Commercial Hotel. Its red-brick arches and pan-tile roofs in the 1930's Art Deco 'Spanish' style. Across Boorowa Street in front of Raine & Home is a tablet commemorating the Centenary of Electric Power Supply - restored cast-iron street-lamps now stand at major intersections in the downtown area, their columns bedecked with twisty ribbons and tiny flowers.
The township walk along Boorowa Street displays Historical Markers describing early commercial buildings, banks, hotels and notably Millard's "The Big Store" and the Town Hall (1875 with 1922 War Memorial clock-tower).
EXPLORE MAIN STREET (1)
MAIN STREET (2)
The dog-leg alignment of this street is the last trace of the chaotic early settlement at Lambing Flat - 1861 Government surveyors laid out the street grid approximately in line with the compass points. The Heritage Walk proceeds on the eastern side of the street along the line of old shops (early 1900's). Their fronts are deeply panelled in timber; awnings are the original verandas suspended from steel rods when the posts were removed by Council by-law in 1955 (because they looked old-fashioned and "obstructed the pavement"). Directly over the road can be seen Federation Building - this was Billy Hayes' café, grocery and hardware business into the 1960's; Mr Hayes was one of the last Chinese traders in town. To the right are three old shop[s (with new fronts) which actually survive from the mining-boom era, the oldest buildings in town. For the first fifty years there were hotels on every corner hereabouts.
EXPLORE MAIN STREET (2)
SOUTHERN CROSS HALL (CINEMA)
Originally the Parish Hall for St Marys Roman Catholic Church - built by Dean Hennessy in 1924 a memorial to those who served in World War 1. It has the best dance floor in Young. By the 1990's redundant for Parish usage, it was acquired by Young Shire Council. Through hard work by local citizens and enabled by generous grants from local and state governments, it re-opened as a cinema and arts centre in 2004. The commodious building in the Federation style houses a foyer/mezzanine space, two studious and a 180-seat ranked auditorium, fully equipped with digital projection and surround-sound. Films are screened 6 days per week.
EXPLORE SOUTHERN CROSS HALL (CINEMA)
PATTERSON BROTHERS FUNERALS
Across the street is Young's oldest undertaking business. Patterson Brothers moved from Boorowa in 1906, having purchased the premise from Nielsen's one of the earliest undertakers. The façade dates from the Federation era, with it's distinctive gabled parapet; the little cottage next door (now a beauty parlour) is a remnant of the gold rush. Adjacent is the Temperance Hall built in 1884 to replace one demolished for the railway - made from local sandstone is a rustic classical style and now used by Local Land Services. Note the stone mounting block.
EXPLORE PATTERSON BROTHERS FUNERALS
HERITAGE WALK
Continue past Shell Service Station to cross Short Street via pedestrian refuge. Turn left and proceed to the alley and make a right turn; along this little passage is a rear view of some of the oldest premises in Young. #1 Tiny low-slung shops to the right were originally made of rough-hewn timber slabs and bark strips with bark or shingle roofs. They are over 150 years old, re-clad in modern materials. Contrast with the 1875 premises on the left of the alley and the looming three-storeyed brickwork of Millard's Department Store, built in 1917. Return to Short Street and continue to the pedestrian bridge over Burrangong Creek. This is the earliest site of the gold diggings, transformed into a park landscape by Service Club volunteers and local council. Ahead are the buildings of Hennessy Catholic Secondary College and the spire of St Marys Parish Church. Cross Dundas Street and proceed uphill along Campbell Street.
EXPLORE HERITAGE WALK
ST. MARY'S CHURCH & PARISH OFFICE
The former infants School facing Campbell Street is now the Parish Centre and office for St Marys Catholic Parish; brick arches and elegant style - built 1934. The noble church (1874) is of local grey granite with Welsh slate roof; architect Andrea Stombucco (Italian Immigrant) designed several churches for the Goulburn Diocese and later in Brisbane. The 1931 belfry and spire (designed by Hennessey, Sydney) raised the height to 108 feet (32 metres). The church has twice been extended, most recently in 1959. Inside is simple Gothic Revival with a handsome scissors-beam roof and gorgeous stained glass and recent liturgical arrangements. Beside the nave a Celtic cross marks the grave of Monsignor Jerome Hennessy, the great builder-priest of Young (Parish Priest 1889-1895 and 1903-dying in office 1941). His monument states "public benefactor of Young for 50 years".
EXPLORE ST. MARY'S CHURCH & PARISH OFFICE
PRESENTATION CONVENT & CHAPEL / ST PAT'S SCHOOL (RIPON STREET)
Built in 1891 for the sisters of the Presentation Order who ran Catholic education for girls in Young (boys were taught by Christian Brothers). This charming building has ornate cast-iron verandas. The nuns chapel is early 20th Century. Now Hennessy Catholic Secondary College Admin Block. Along the street is St Patricks School, the oldest remaining school building on the campus (1895) with unusual double hall structure.
EXPLORE PRESENTATION CONVENT & CHAPEL / ST PAT'S SCHOOL (RIPON STREET)
OLD GAOL GATE
Across Ripon Street and up through Carrington Park to the Old Gaol Gate (1876). Built to hold 90 prisoners, the gaol specialised in making 'cabbage tree hats' from the fronds of coastal palms; the milliners house still stands in Campbell Street. The gaol closed in 1923 and most was demolished; remaining buildings form part of Young Campus of TAFE NSW.
EXPLORE OLD GAOL GATE
MEMORIAL TO JOHN & JAMES WHITE
Erected 1928, this monument celebrates the first European settlers in the district; James White arrived about 1832 (dates uncertain) and settles where Coborn Jackey advised of reliable running water (opposite Quamby homestead on Grenfell Road). Whites niece Sarah Musgrave is also memorialised (author of The Wayback). See Jackey's name-plate in Lambing Flat Museum.
EXPLORE MEMORIAL TO JOHN & JAMES WHITE
CARRINGTON PARK & 1912 ROTUNDA
A memorial plaque to the towns first bandmaster Professor WF Roberts is at the side of the bandstand. The park was established on the former Police Paddock in 1888 and named after Lord Carrington (state Governor) who was in town to switch on the first electric power system. The roses and hedgerows are being restored to the original layout. The gates were erected in memory of Drum Major Arthur Lee and bandsman Frederick Dirou killed in World War 1 and have an Honour Roll for the Young District Band.
EXPLORE CARRINGTON PARK & 1912 ROTUNDA
GREAT COURT HOUSE 1886
The giant Ionic portico proclaims 1884 in Roman numerals, but it opened in 1886. This monster courthouse was built to demonstrate Law and Order on the site of the worst encounter between rioting miners and police (1861). There was always a small courthouse in Lynch Street used for Petty Sessions, so this one was thought to be an extravagance. One of the finest court buildings of NSW. It was designed by James Barnet, Government architect. Since 1925 it has served as the towns High School, the courtroom is now the hall, seating 350.
EXPLORE GREAT COURT HOUSE 1886
READING THE RIOT ACT - JULY 14, 1861
On the High School picket fence facing Campbell Street, this notice records the only public declaration of "The Riot Act" in NSW history. Miners carrying banners and notice against Chinese on the Goldfield surged up the hill to confront police at their camp. The response to the Riot Act was out-cry, so mounted troops with sabres charged while some fired overhead. Miners retreated in dissaray, many being injured.
View From Traffic Island - Near the Carrington Park gates in Campbell Street features the three principal towers of Young - St Marys spire, Town Hall clocktower and campanile belltower of the former Primary School. Also on view is Millards Emporium 1917 and tall gums of the Arboretum growing along Burrangong Creek. At noon can be heard the Angelus from St Marys answering the Town Halls chime. Notice also giant Bunya Pines (Araucaria bidwillii) across the road and Queensland Hoop Pines (Araucaria cunninghamii) at the front of the High School, about 130 years old.
EXPLORE READING THE RIOT ACT - JULY 14, 1861
YOUNG PUBLIC SCHOOL 1884
First school demolished for the railway, so this steeply-sloping site was selected and a new school built, designed by William Kemp (architect of many NSW Schools). The style is 'Free Classical', with airy classrooms; timber columns in the Doric Order support the veranda, at centre is the Bell tower with a distinctively Italian caste and over to the right the Baroque porch with clustered columns marking the entrance to the Girls School (later infants School). To the right is the two-storeyed Headmasters Residence. Since 1973, when the school moved to south Young, this has been the Community Arts Centre - here are Family History Centre, Camera Society, Theatre Company, Green Ivy Café (in courtyard) and Lambing Flat Folk Museum.
To reach Lambing Flat Folk Museum, walk down Campbell Street, crossing over Ripon Street to the pedestrian crossing, proceeding to the museum entrance. Part of the collection is displayed at street edge - Mile Posts from Young to Bribbaree Road. Open daily the museum houses a large collection with several unique items - including Coborn Jackey's nameplate (1831), "The Roll-Up Banner" carried by miners in the 1861 riots, bush ranger Frank Gardiners prayer book and a three legged chicken.
NB : suggested short heritage walk - numbers 9 to 17, starting (and finishing) at the carpark.
Proceed uphill along Campbell Street passing the original Mile Post Cowra (CA) to Cootamundra (CT) in its original location. Continue uphill and turn left into Gordon Street. *(James Gordon set up practice in Young in 1868, an early MP for Young and Mayor in 1898; the firm continues today as Gordon, Garling and Moffatt). Continue to the lookout on the left for about 20 metres.
EXPLORE YOUNG PUBLIC SCHOOL 1884
LUPTONS LOOKOUT
Precipitous landscape was the scene of digging for gold; first discoveries were made on the level below - the Lambing Flat Lookout has been named for William Lupton, the only person killed in the July 1861 assault on the Police Lock-up, shot through the neck by a stray bullet. Lupton was buried after a huge procession through the camp, led by brass band. Lakes along the creek were created from Bi-Centenary of European Settlement grant 1988.
EXPLORE LUPTONS LOOKOUT
HALLIDAYS BRIDGE
Proceed down Gordon Street and left into Yass Street - this was the beginning of the track to Yass, the nearest established centre of commerce and government services in 1860. Halliday opened the bridge in August 1862 as a business venture, charging a toll to all vehicles. In the gutter at the corner can be seen an early granite slab formation. Proceed along the path to the pedestrian bridge at Captain Cook Weir - in the creek bed, on left, is one timber pile remaining from 1870's Yass Street Bridge. Here is the site of the original gold discovery and the track that became Main Street. (Refer to points 4 & 5 above).
EXPLORE HALLIDAYS BRIDGE
ARBORETUM PARK
Native trees planted by High School students in 1979. Site of a memorial of those who fought and fell in Korea, Malaysia, Borneo and Vietnam and in appreciation of many years of voluntary work by the RSL, Women's Auxiliary.
(Sponsored by Young RSL Sub-branch, Young Shire Council and the Australian Day Committee).
EXPLORE ARBORETUM PARK
GOLD CENTENARY MONUMENT
Corner Main and Marina Streets, this sundial was unveiled by Alec Chisholm, President of the Royal Australian Historical Society in 1960 to mark discovery of gold and the birth of the town of Young in 1860. Captain Cook Park Lake is a popular recreation spot for families and for water birds! Marina Street is named for Carlo Marina, pioneer pastoralist, who settled at Moppity (east of Young), having married Eliza Tout at Yass in 1861. Carlo had fought in Garibaldi's army in Italy and arrived in Melbourne in 1856. At first a butcher, he became a grazier and planted orchards and vineyards as well.
EXPLORE GOLD CENTENARY MONUMENT
YOUNG HOTEL
Originally Oddfellow's Arms Hotel 1874, remains a popular watering hole. The Oddfellow's Hall was to the left of the hotel. In the 1940's there was a miniature golf course on the present ambulance station site.
EXPLORE YOUNG HOTEL
METHODIST CHURCH
Now the Uniting Church, was built in 1909 in the Arts & Crafts style - red brickwork and light stucco bands with Late Gothic detail. Inside is a 'hammer-beam' roof and sloping floor. (In 1865 the Methodist Church stood at the corner or Cloete and Lynch Streets). The site was adjacent to Cram's (first Mayor) sawmill, later converted to a flour mill.
The mill covered the corner block and what is now part of Marina Street, Cram's cottage stood on the site of the right of the church.
EXPLORE METHODIST CHURCH
CLOETE STREET
Named for the Police Commissioner on the goldfield, Peter Cloete; he rode to Yass in 1860 seeking Government help to control the riots - from there, telegraph messages were sent to Sydney and troops dispatched. Along the street are Young Police station and lock-up and a police cottage; the large timber house was a former medical practice, next to the original CWA rooms, now the Tester-Porter Accountants. At the corner is a fine 1920's bungalow.
EXPLORE CLOETE STREET
ANGLICAN CHURCH BUILDINGS
Across the street, St John the Evangelist Church built 1893 to the design of Arhtur Blackett (of the famous church building firm) in late 13th Century Gothic style. This is the second church on the site, the first being in memory of Police Captain John Wilkie who died in a fall from his horse in 1862 - his widow Margaret raised funds to start a parish and church here in 1865. St Johns church is built of grey slate from Bendick Murrell with sandstone details. The beautiful interior is worth a visit - fine woodwork, stained glass windows and organ gallery.
The Rectory was built in a Deco-Tudor style in 1937. At rear of the Parish hall is the former Church of England School, 1866, designed by William Kemp, the only school building remaining from gold-rush days. Return to Lynch Street.
EXPLORE ANGLICAN CHURCH BUILDINGS
COURTHOUSE & POST OFFICE
At the corner of Lynch Street stand the 1928 courthouse, built partially from funds from the Dept. of Education for transfer of Great Courthouse to use as the high school. Interior cedar fittings were moved into this new building from the larger one, creating a very handsome court room. Entrance portico has paired Tuscan Doric columns, a fine example of early 20th Century Classical design. Post Office net door (1878) replaced little timber cottage from 1862, the year the telegraph line reached town. Much altered over the years, but retains its clock.
EXPLORE COURTHOUSE & POST OFFICE
LYNCH STREET
Named after Sub-inspector Lynch who arrived here Tumbarumba in March 1861 to assist troops arriving from Sydney for riot control. Young's best street, with beautiful trees and several fine buildings. Opposite the Post Office is the ANU Country Medical Annex in "Toledo", Arts & Crafts style from the early 20th Century with battlemented parapet - completely burnt out in 1937, but refitted as before. The Indian restaurant 'Namaste' on Rosemary Lane occupies the little building where Solicitor James Gordo practised from 1881. Next door is the proud building (1912) built by Baldo Cunich, owner of worlds largest (for many years) cherry orchard.
EXPLORE LYNCH STREET
CORNER LYNCH & BOOROWA STREETS
Shops to the corner (now Amcal Max Pharmacy) were rebuilt by Tout and Kelly after the catastrophic fire in March 1937. Much of the commercial centre is of a consistent style, two storeys with a neat parapet - built after the fires in 1875 and 1877 had removed ramshackle shops and cottages of gold era. Handsome verandas that gave so much character to the town have been stripped from the facades. Crossing Boorowa Street reveals views of the heart of town, dominated by Millard's 'Big Store' and Town Hall clock.
EXPLORE CORNER LYNCH & BOOROWA STREETS
BANKS
Young's grand bank buildings reflect prosperity of the town. Three are at intersection with Boorowa Street. At right, former Rural Bank of NSW in a comfortable rustic Georgian style (now South-west Slopes Credit Union). Beyond, former Commonwealth Bank in Art Deco style- brand of that bank (now a gun shop). To the left, the grandest of all, the baroque splendour of City Bank 1890, later becoming Commercial Bank of Australia and now and auctioneers - worth a glance inside for ornate ceiling and cedar fittings. It resembles a small Roman Palazzo in the rear stands the old stone stables (late 1870's) with attic hayloft, now occupied by Young Hardware.
EXPLORE BANKS
LYNCH STREET (NORTH)
Corner of Lightning Lane is the library in the School of Arts 1904; on the pleasant brickwork is hidden under a coat of paint. Opposite is the fire station, mid 1930's; on the fence, the fire bell (1870s) which has been moved several times, originally standing in Main Street. Next door is the Presbyterian Church 1920, built of Bendick Murrell bluestone with steps and arches of local great granite and slate roof in early Gothic style to the design of WM Campbell, Melbourne (corner tower yet to be completed). Presbyterians opened their first church in 18721 next to Lynch Street bridge. (now site of a restaurant).
Across the street, former AMP Insurance building (1920s) in a fine rendition of English Palladian (Classical) style; above curved Doric Portico is AMP's signature stone statuary group. Eric Campbell solicitor (in late - 1920s founder pf the New Guard, an organisation of ex-servicemen dedicated to overthrow State Labour Government) had his office here. Captain de Groote who famously slashed the ribbon to open the Sydney Harbour Bridge was riding a horse from Young.
Radio Station 2LF also had its offices in this building.
EXPLORE LYNCH STREET (NORTH)
RETURN VIA ANDERSON PARK TO TOURIST CENTRE
The Park was named for Lt-Colonel Charles Anderson, a local grazier and soldier. Anderson was one of the few awarded with the Victoria Cross in WW2. Anderson later became Federal Member for Hume until the mid 1960s. Servicemen from WW2, Korean, Vietnam and later campaigns are commemorated in this park. The huge London Plane trees were planted at the opening of the Railway station in 1885.
EXPLORE RETURN VIA ANDERSON PARK TO TOURIST CENTRE
Discover the history and heritage or Harden-Murrumburrah
WHICHCRAFT AND COFFEE COTTAGE
Established by John Bourke in 1902, as his residence. John Bourke came to the district in the early 1860s as a butcher and later became a stock and station agent. He was one of Murrumburrah's leading citizens, as a JP, Trustee of the racecourse, Mayor and Alderman (1896-1901) of the Borough of Murrumburrah. He was also the first President of the Demondrille Shire and served as a Councillor for twelve years. The house was architecturally designed by John Barlow of Sydney and built using a bitumen damp course. It later became Dr Heggarton's home. A monument outside the house commemorates Dr Heggartons's two sons, killed in WW2.
EXPLORE WHICHCRAFT AND COFFEE COTTAGE
MURRUMBURRAH COURT HOUSE
Architecturally designed by James Barnett, this building was established in 1880 and opened as a court house in 1881. Courts of petty session in Murrumburrah began in 1865 with honorary magistrates on the bench (i.e. Justices of the peace) and in later years magistrates from Young. The Court house was closed in 1988, when all records were transferred to the Young Court House and local cases were heard in Cootamundra. The building is now used as the arts and crafts cultural centre by the Harden arts council.
EXPLORE MURRUMBURRAH COURT HOUSE
ROSEMORE
In 1881, John Dillon built Rosemore as the first brick house in Murrumburrah, as a six-bay cottage; now converted to a duplex. As was typical of this era, the kitchen was separate from the main part of the house and placed at the rear of the residence.
EXPLORE ROSEMORE
OLD POLICE STATION
Old Police Station, now the Council depot area, was the Murrumburrah Police Station, residence and lockup. These were later destroyed by fire.
EXPLORE OLD POLICE STATION
RAILWAY FOOTBRIDGE
This footbridge, erected in 1915, crossed the main Sydney/Melbourne rail line and is the only non-station footbridge south of Picton. It was built to allow worshippers to reach St Mary's Catholic Church safely without needing to walk across the level crossing in Vernon Street.
EXPLORE RAILWAY FOOTBRIDGE
ST MARYS CATHOLIC CHURCH, SCHOOL AND PRESBYTERY
The blocks for the church, school and presbytery were dedicated in 1863. The church was built in 1868 and extended in 1895 with the bell tower and presbytery added in 1910. The presbytery, to the east of the church was originally a single-storey building, used as a school in 1873, and then as a convent, before becoming the presbytery in 1901/2 and the second floor was added in 1911/12.
EXPLORE ST MARYS CATHOLIC CHURCH, SCHOOL AND PRESBYTERY
ST MARYS CONVENT
At the opening of the convent, it contained fourteen rooms including a servants room and bathroom, two splendid reception rooms and a very large community room. It is now a private residence, beautifully maintained in period décor.
EXPLORE ST MARYS CONVENT
RAILWAY ARCHED BRIDGE
This bridge was built in 1918, with bricks transported from Sydney. It is the longest (172 feet) arched brick bridge, south of Goulburn. This also provides and excellent view of Murrumburrah.
EXPLORE RAILWAY ARCHED BRIDGE
ALLSOPP RESIDENCE
This private residence used to be the mills owners (Allsopp) residence. Note the iron lattice work on the veranda, which was a feature of housing in the late 19th Century.
EXPLORE ALLSOPP RESIDENCE
POLICE RESIDENCE
The police residence is a fine example of federation-style housing, which snuggles into the side of the mill.
EXPLORE POLICE RESIDENCE
OLD FLOUR MILL
The Murrumburrah Flour Mill was built by Miles Murphy in 1863. Thomas Allsopp, an English miller, was brought from Boorowa as an employee of Murphy. In 1868, Allsopp became the sole proprietor of the Mill.
Wheat was ground then by the old stone process; a slow and costly method, but Allsopp installed a modern steel roller press in 1869. An efficient steam plant was erected to drive the mill machinery and the output was increased from 1200lbs (544.5Kg) per hour to 3200lbs (1451.5Kg) per hour. In 1938, the steam plant was superseded by electric power from the Burrinjuck hydro-electric scheme.
Unfortunately, this famous landmark was destroyed by fire in 1919, to be rebuilt by Allsopp immediately. During the rebuild, he formed Allsopp's Silver Spray Flour Mill Limited, which took over the mill on completion and erected a double storage silo with a capacity of 66,000 bushels (2,00 ton), at a total capital cost of £50,000 ($25,000).
EXPLORE OLD FLOUR MILL
FEDERATION STAR OBELISK
Former site of the Criterion Hotel, the second hotel to be built, in 1860. It contained eight bedrooms, three parlours, a taproom, large kitchen, cook's room and laundry. Outside, a stable containing eight stalls, loose boxes, a small enclosed paddock for travelling stock and a well of water in the yard. It was extended in 1870, requiring 60,000 bricks that were made in Murrumburrah.
The land is now known as Mill Park and houses the Federation Star Memorial. It was built by a local engineer, for free. The fourteen-point, double Federation Star top an obelisk 14 metres high. The star celebrates the spirit of Australia and is a symbol of harmony and optimism for the future. The granite base was made from stones from a local cottage. Coins have been embedded in the mortar as a gesture of good luck. Words and phrases etched into the faces, together with images referring to Aboriginal and European cultures.
EXPLORE FEDERATION STAR OBELISK
FIRST AUSTRALIAN HORSE AND AUSTRALIAN LIGHT HORSE MEMORIAL
In 1897, this site was the birth place of 'The First Australian Horse' later to become the Australian Light Horse Memorial. It's founder Lt Colonel James Kenneth Mackay raised the troops from local horsemen, to fight the Boer War in South Africa. The memorial was created for centenary celebrations in 1997 to honour all volunteers and horses that served Australia through all wars. The site is used to commemorate ANZAC and Remembrance Day and as a permanent site of reflection.
EXPLORE FIRST AUSTRALIAN HORSE AND AUSTRALIAN LIGHT HORSE MEMORIAL
SCHOOL OF ARTS BUILDING
This building was erected in 1912 on the site of the Old Shamrock Inn and was utilised as the School of Arts, which provided a library and reading rooms, billiards/projection room, a large dance hall and stage. In the basement was a supper room. The building now houses a large display of museum items.
EXPLORE SCHOOL OF ARTS BUILDING
OLD BANK BUILDING
This building was built in 1914 for the Bank of NSW by architect Alfred Allen and was used until 1961. It then became a doctors surgery and later as a private residence, until 1985, when it started as the Terracotta restaurant. The bank vault is still intact and was used as a bar. In 2011, the Terracotta restaurant moved across the road and the building remained a private residence.
EXPLORE OLD BANK BUILDING
LIGHT HORSE HOTEL (FORMERLY COMMERICAL)
In 1861, John Dillon opened the Commercial Hotel. It was extended in 1869 and in 1892 and the two-storey veranda structure seen today was complete in 1926. The bar part is part of the original 1861 hotel. It is the only one of six hotels on Murrumburrah still operating. In 2014, its name was changed to the Light Horse Hotel.
EXPLORE LIGHT HORSE HOTEL (FORMERLY COMMERICAL)
MUDDY DUCK (MURRUMBURRAH POST OFFICE)
The Murrumburrah Post Office and residence was erected in 1879 and is in its original state except for a new façade which was erected in recent years. The building was still used as a post office during the 1990s. In the 2000s it became Harden's House of Honey and is now the Muddy Duck café.
EXPLORE MUDDY DUCK (MURRUMBURRAH POST OFFICE)
BARNES STORE
This store operated from 1861. The building was enlarged several times until the 1890s. In about 1951 George Sewell & Sons took over the shop. However, by 1960, Murrumburrah was declining as the business centre and Sewell closed the shop and moved to Harden.
It became an antique and replica store for some time but it is now a private residence. The current owners run the Barnes store and Emporium and the Gold Trail Experience
EXPLORE BARNES STORE
MURRIMBOOLA CREEK - ROBERTS PARK
This park was donated by Mr. Roberts of Currawong. The park is the home of the Harden-Murrumburrah Rugby Union Club and Harden Soccer Club. Touch Football and other sports are played here regularly.
The park is watered directly from the Murrimboola Creek and is also used for passive recreation. It once had a dog track, some of which can still be seen today.
Between the walkway sign and toilet was the site of the first electricity power station. The station utilised the waters of the creek during generation. Mini golf was also played there.
EXPLORE MURRIMBOOLA CREEK - ROBERTS PARK
BICENTENNIAL WALKWAY
This was developed in 1988 and passes around Roberts park following the creek. The walkway was planted with native trees and shrubs and finishes at Iris street at the northern end. On this walk can be seen the footing of the first railway bridge, which was built on the single line and at the site of the railway bridge.
EXPLORE BICENTENNIAL WALKWAY
MURRIMBOOLA CREEK BRIDGE
The first bridge was built in the 1880s but was washed away in 1930 and had to be rebuilt. The existing bridge, which is the third bridge to be erected on this site, was built in the 1960s.
EXPLORE MURRIMBOOLA CREEK BRIDGE
CODDINGTON PARK
Coddington park was named George Coddington, who was a former Mayor of Murrumburrah. The park contains the site of the original Municipal Baths, which were built in 1926, close to the creek and were a welcome addition to the town, not only by the local residents, but also residents from neighbouring towns who did not possess such a luxury at this time. Water was drawn directly from Murrimboola Creek to fill the baths. The baths closed in 1960 and the playground area was established over the baths site.
EXPLORE CODDINGTON PARK
HARDEN - HARDEN RAILWAY STATION
Harden Railway Precinct is state significant as a representative example of a railway complex demonstrating the importance placed on railway development in country NSW during the late 19th Century. The station building reveals the evolution of the development of railway infrastructure in the area to accommodate increased traffic and change ti an island platform for duplication of the line.
Harden opened as Murrumburrah on 12 March 1877, changed to North Murrumburrah 5 September 1878 (once the line reached Murrumburrah proper) and changed to Harden 1 September 1880.
The original station building was removed and re-erected t Tallong, near Goulburn. The basis of the current station was built by contractors, Langley and Thompson (for 694 pounds) and opened on 28 May 1881. The platform was also lengthened at this time. The refreshment Rooms were built in 1884.
EXPLORE HARDEN - HARDEN RAILWAY STATION
RAILWAY INSTITUTE, SIGNAL BOX, CRANE
The signal boxes are significant for demonstrating two varying styles of construction for a standard railway structure and for demonstrating past railway safe-working and signalling operation in NSW.
The two boxes are similar in design and construction but not identical, the south box being slightly larger than the north box as it controlled access to the former locomotive facilities. The signal boxes have aesthetic significance as utilitarian structures with original detailing and fabric typical of standard railway design.
The 5-ton jib crane with pulley and hook on brick plinth in yard is also of significance.
EXPLORE RAILWAY INSTITUTE, SIGNAL BOX, CRANE
DENTISTS BUILDING - ART DECO
This was a vacant block of land used for an open-air picture show. In 1928 it was owned by Bradford - a butcher. In 1931 to 1937 it was owned by the Ross family, whose property was 'Adreisier' but shows no building on this land at that stage.
It was purchased by Geoff Kruger in 1938 and he built a dental chamber and residence.
EXPLORE DENTISTS BUILDING - ART DECO
CBC BANK BUILDING
The Commercial Banking Company of Sydney opened the CBC Harden branch on Tuesday 20th August 1907. The CBC bank is a single-storey Federation building erected c. 1905 of brown brick with an unusual slate-clad hipped and gabled roof featuring terracotta ridge-capping. There are stained-glass fanlights and sidelights, a detailed façade and entry porch with pediment. It changed to National Bank of Australia and closed on 2nd June 2017.
EXPLORE CBC BANK BUILDING
MECHANICS INSTITUTE
Established in 1874, for the moral improvement of the town, the Mechanics Institute, provided a library, reading room, educational lectures and later a billiard room. The current building was erected in 1909. During the first World War, the Institute was the focus pf several recruiting campaigns, including the historic march through this area of Southern NSW as part of the early recruitment drive to enlist men to fight in the Australian Imperial Force (AIP)
The purchase of adjoining shops occurred in 1951 along with other improvements to the facility. In 1959 a 'face lift' and further improvements occurred. The Federation style façade has 'horizontal branded cream and brick effect'.
According to Les Tod (1995) the building "was used for the screening of silent pictures, mainly by travelling show men, such as the Crustal Palace Company, which screened there regularly in 1912 on Saturday nights". "Regular film screening would have ceased around 1914 when Harden's open-air Lyceum Theatre was built".
EXPLORE MECHANICS INSTITUTE
OLD CHEMIST SHOP AND SOLICITOR'S OFFICE
The Solicitors building was originally the Commonwealth Bank & the Chemist shop was the residence for the bank building with a doorway from the Bank building into the residence.
During 1916 the bank erected a single storey office for the branch and an adjoining two-storey building for a Chemist shop on the ground floor, with a residence upstairs. So, it was always a Chemist shop at the front. The residence was used for the bank originally and later on by the chemist.
EXPLORE OLD CHEMIST SHOP AND SOLICITOR'S OFFICE
NEWSON PARK
In April 1928, Arthur James Newson, known as AJ, first suggested calling a town meeting to biild a park on a neglected piece of land in the centre of Harden. AJ offered to give £20 ($5000 today) if nine others would do the same to start the fund. On the 30th May 1928, work was underway, with the aim being to raise £7000.
In Marxh 1930, Mr Alfred Paterson was invited to come to Harden to design a park nd sportsground. At the August meeting, the Committee agreed to plant trees and shrubs and considered how the park would be named. As the project had been started by AJ Newson, who had given generously of his money and great enthusiasm for it, it was fitting that the park be named after him.
EXPLORE NEWSON PARK
DISTRICT HOSPITAL
The first move to establish a cottage hospital in the area was reported on 5th May 1894. After the pneumonic influenza pandemic of 1918/19, there was again agitation to build a public hospital, not just a cottage hospital. After much community fundraising, the hospital was finally opened on the 11th May 1927, by the Minister for Health the Hon George McCann, to great local rejoice.
The Maternity wing opened on the 9th August 1958 and a new administration block the following year. The big news of 1972 was that the operating theatre was yo be built. The big event of 1985 was the opening of the 20-bed nursing home on 22nd July. Due to new Government policies, the way the hospital had been managed for 69 years ended in 1994. Maternity services ended in 1990.
EXPLORE DISTRICT HOSPITAL
ROSS MEMORIAL CHURCH
The Ross Memorial Uniting Church is a dominant and handsome building. It was constructed in 1915 as a gift from Mr and Mrs William E Ross in memory of their parents.
EXPLORE ROSS MEMORIAL CHURCH
OLD METHODIST CHURCH
The Methodist Church in Albury Street (between Lucan and Stair Streets) was erected in 1890 with additions in 1900 and 1933. It became the local scout hall and was later converted into a book store.
EXPLORE OLD METHODIST CHURCH
ST ANTHONY'S CATHOLIC CHURCH
St Anthony's Catholic Church is part of Our Lady of Mercy Parish of Murrumburrah-Harden. It accommodated some 600 persons, exclusive of the gallery. The church was built out of Bowral brown bricks, in the Romanesque style. The roof is covered with Welsh slated and the semi-circular ceilings with fibrous plaster panels and enrichments. The church has a stair porch on the east side of the main entrance, lading to the choir gallery. The façade has a hundred-foot-high tower, in brickwork and finished with copper spire and cross.
The foundation stone was laid on 17th June 1934 by the Bishop of Goulburn, the Most Reverend John Barry D.D.
EXPLORE ST ANTHONY'S CATHOLIC CHURCH
TRINITY CENTRE
Catholic education in the area began in Murrumburrah in the 1880s, with the establishment of St Marys School, staffed entirely by the Sister of Mercy nuns. In 1917, they established a Catholic School in Harden, adjoining St Anthony's Church. It was called St Columba's. Both sites were primary and secondary until 1955 when St Columba's became a secondary school and St Marys catered for children from Kindergarten to year six. IN the 1960s, St Columba's became a secondary school and the Murrumburrah campus became a primary school. In 1984 the two schools changed their names and became Trinity Catholic School, a K-10 school. 1990 saw the closure of the secondary campus at Harden due to declining numbers.
EXPLORE TRINITY CENTRE
Take a scenic drive around the beautiful Hilltops Region
A FAMILY GUIDE TO THE HILLTOPS REGION
Your family will love an escape to the Hilltops region. With playgrounds, museums, open spaces where you can experience country living at its finest.
You will find a playground or two in each of the major town centres of Boorowa, Harden, Young and Jugiong, where the kids can play while mum and dad enjoy a takeaway coffee from one of our many fantastic cafes.
In Boorowa, your family can enjoy a stroll along the Riverside Walk, where if you are lucky, you can spot a platypus or one of the local superb parrots.
Set aside an hour or two for the Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Garden in Young. Stroll the gardens and admire the birdlife, and bring your sausages to make use of the barbeque facilities and picnic tables. The kids will be dazzled with the bright silo art in Harden-Murrumburrah, one to tick off the Silo Art trail. A wonderful story is represented by the life-sized statue of ‘Bill the Bastard’, the heroic horse and WWI hero, which will impress the entire family.
If everyone is on their best behaviour, a cute and quirky honey or bee themed gift from the Harden House of Honey will be a wonderful reward.
In each of the towns you will find a museum with artefacts of the early settlers and the gold rush. At the Lambing Flat Folk Museum in Young you can even hire gold panning equipment to try your luck at prospecting. Blackguard Gully is a public fossicking sight where you can try out the equipment. If you don’t find any gold, you will still be glad you witnessed the interesting landscape and learn the story of what took place in the area during the gold rush.
If visiting during cherry harvest, the kids will love picking their own cherries to take home. There are several orchards in the region where you can not only pick cherries, but you can also pick strawberries. You can take a tour around the orchard in a safari style bus and interact with the peacocks, goats, llamas and more!
EXPLORE A FAMILY GUIDE TO THE HILLTOPS REGION
TASTE THE HILLTOPS - FOOD AND WINE TRAIL
Discover the flavours of the Hilltops with a trail around the region, sampling the local delights, served with warm country hospitality. You would need a few days to try everything on offer in the region, but if you only have one day choose a trail to suit your palate.
EXPLORE TASTE THE HILLTOPS - FOOD AND WINE TRAIL
BOOROWA FOR BREAKFAST, YOUNG FOR LUNCH AND HARDEN FOR DINNER
Start your day with a café breakfast along Marsden Street in Boorowa, or if you prefer a Devonshire tea mid-morning from the Boorowa Court House Arts and Crafts. On your way through to Young, stop in at the Trandari Wine Cellar Door located within the Taubman and Web Trading Post in Murringo. Choose from one of the many delicious cafes in Young for a tasty lunch, or for a true country pub experience, head out to Hotel Koorowatha. Visit Poppa’s Fudge Factory to get yourself a sweet treat after lunch, or pick up one of their oils, jams or sauces. Next stop is Ballinaclash Fruit and Wine to taste their delicious award-winning wines, and pick up a homemade jam or sauce. Continue onto Harden for a delicious meal at the Light Horse Hotel.
EXPLORE BOOROWA FOR BREAKFAST, YOUNG FOR LUNCH AND HARDEN FOR DINNER
YOUNG FOR BREAKFAST, HARDEN FOR LUNCH AND BOOROWA FOR DINNER
It’s a tough choice between Wilders Bakery or Hussy Specialty Kitchen for breakfast and a great coffee. Stop in at the Young Visitor Information Centre and get yourself some Hilltops Honey. Drive through the rolling hills towards the small village of Prunevale, home to the boutique Freemans Vineyards, to sample the award winning Italian Inspired wines. From Prunevale it is a short trip to Harden-Murrumburrah for lunch at the Barnes Store Emporium and Café, The Muddy Duck , Terracotta Restaurant. Take a scenic drive onto Boorowa, for a delicious dinner at the Boorowa Ex Services and Citizens Club.
EXPLORE YOUNG FOR BREAKFAST, HARDEN FOR LUNCH AND BOOROWA FOR DINNER
HARDEN FOR BREAKFAST, BOOROWA FOR LUNCH AND YOUNG FOR DINNER
Muddy Duck for a barista made coffee to start your day, then wander down to the Harden House of Honey to get your honey fix! Make your way to Boorowa for lunch at one of the various cafes, bakery or the Boorowa Ex Services Club, before heading to Grove Estate Winery for sample the delicious wines. Or if it is spirits that you are after, don’t go past Bluestill Distillery (the honey bourbon is a must try!). Finish your day off with a relaxed meal at the Young Services Club.
EXPLORE HARDEN FOR BREAKFAST, BOOROWA FOR LUNCH AND YOUNG FOR DINNER
SCENIC DRIVE NORTH
Take the road less travelled and explore the northern Hilltops Region area. This drive starts in Young and takes you through the village of Monteagle where you will find the intriguing Rustic Maze and Country Garden (pre-booking required). Monteagle is also home to the Bulla Creek Brewing Co, a local independent brewery. Continuing on from Monteagle you will find one of the best views in the region – Tout's Lookout. The few kilometres of gravel road to reach it is well worth the effort, as the view will take your breath away.
Head back to the main road and join Iandra Road, which is just on the edge of the region. This will take you to the magnificent view of Iandra Castle, which is privately owned on a working farm. Check the Open Day schedule, or contact the owners to arrange an appointment to see this Elizabethan style homestead. From here you can take the Tyagong Hall Road back to the Henry Lawson Way, where you can either head back to Young or extend your trip and visit Grenfell.
Tip: Take a picnic or refreshments with you, just incase you are visiting outside the opening times of the only café on the route, Circa 1935 in Greenthorpe.
EXPLORE SCENIC DRIVE NORTH
APPROXIMATE DISTANCES:
Young to Touts Lookout: 20km Touts Lookout to Iandra Castle: 15km Iandra Castle to Young (via Henry Lawson Way): 41km Total roundtrip: 79km
Iandra Castle to Grenfell (via Henry Lawson Way): 34km Grenfell to Young: 53km Total roundtrip including Grenfell: 122km
EXPLORE APPROXIMATE DISTANCES:
A DAY OF INDULGENCE - A DAY IN JUGIONG
Spend a relaxing, indulgent day in beautiful Jugiong by the river. Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast from the ever-popular Long Track Pantry, before strolling through its delightful gift shop. A short stop down the road, visit the Quirky Crow to explore the beautiful art and wares on display, an even pre-book an art lesson with Brian, owner and resident artist.
Prepare yourself for the beautiful offerings at Woodstock Resources - antiques, accessories and stunning imported European oak furniture. It will be impossible to leave empty handed.
Satisfy your appetite with lunch at the Sir George either inside the incredibly restored building or outside in the divine garden. What better way to finish off your afternoon with a beauty treatment at Parlour J Health & Beauty. Don't forget to drop by the Jugiong Wine Cellar to take a taste of the Hilltops home with you.
Enjoy the scenic drive back to your accommodation, or stay the night in Jugiong.
Approximate driving distances :
Young to Jugiong : 70Km
Boorowa to Jugiong : 71 Km
Harden to Jugiong : 38Km
EXPLORE A DAY OF INDULGENCE - A DAY IN JUGIONG
NATURE - JUGIONG - HARDEN-MURRUMBURRAH - BOOROWA - WYANGALA DAM
Start your Hilltops nature experience just off the Hume Highway at Jugiong. Once an ancient trading crossroad, Jugiong today is a NSW Top Town finalist with breathtaking natural scenery and ample terrain for exercise and play. With the mighty Murrumbidgee a stone’s throw from the village centre, take a riverside walk or engage with a Murrumbidgee River canoe or kayak trail. It is recommended to research the Crown Land website as the river has steep sides at places. There’s Murray Cod, Golden Perch, Trout and Murray Crayfish for those with a NSW Recreational Fishing Licence. Check out requirements. Intermittent steep terrain offers a vantage point at Waterworks Lookout along Riverside Drive with panoramic views over the Jugiong region. Drive to Harden Murrumburrah through picturesque undulating countryside and set out for a stride along the recently redeveloped Murrimboola Creek where nearby the state’s most recent silo art pays homage in splendorous colour to the district’s golden grain and flour mill heritage. Across the road from the silo, travellers can admire a unique roof mural painted on the newly opened Harden Murrumburrah Visitor Information Centre. It’s an attraction in itself, and there’s plenty of information and directions within. Extend your walk with a stride around the Murrumburrah Trail, an informative and attractive outdoor experience while in the twin town of Harden exercise and history intersect on a walking trail starting at the historic railway station.
It’s a half hour jaunt to Boorowa, an area known as home to the Superb Parrot and what better location for a spot of bird watching. Don’t be surprised if you find apostle birds, kangaroos and wallabies as you immerse yourself in the rural landscape. The Boorowa River Walk is a must do and there’s plenty of natural habitats and wildlife to spy as you wander there. Stay overnight in Boorowa, or travel through hilly country to Wyangala Dam where stunning water views and tree lined plateaus offer the traveller many activities including walking tracks and mountain bike trails. There are also water sports like kayaking, fishing, swimming and water skiing. The Wyangala Waters Holiday Park has options for overnight or longer stays.
EXPLORE NATURE - JUGIONG - HARDEN-MURRUMBURRAH - BOOROWA - WYANGALA DAM
NATURE - BOOROWA - MURRINGO - KOORAWATHA - TOUTS LOOKOUT - YOUNG
There are some stunning outdoor activities to enjoy in the Hilltops Region of NSW and here are six encompassing villages of Murringo, Koorawatha, Monteagle and the towns of Boorowa and Young.
Bird Watching :
Members of Boorowa’s iconic Superb Parrot community can be found in wooded areas throughout the region and in nearby Murringo. The Superb Parrot is known for its distinctive size and colouring. It is a large, bright grass-green parrot with a long, narrow tail and sharply back-angled wings in flight. Males have yellow foreheads and throats and a red crescent that separates the throat from the green breast and belly. Females are slightly duller green with a light blue wash. Happy bird watching!
Riverside Walk :
Take a relaxed stroll along the riverside walking trail. Keep an eye out for the elusive duck-billed platypus. Extend the walk by wandering the main street, gathering locally produced goodies to enjoy throughout the day from a wide range of cafés and retail outlets.
Picnic at Murringo :
Next, enjoy a leisurely drive along the scenic Murringo’s Gap Road towards Koorawatha, stopping for morning tea at the picturesque picnic area located alongside Murringo Creek or in picnic areas near the Murringo Hall. Come weekends the Taubman and Webb Trading Post may be ready to welcome with memorabilia of the Australian stockman and other bush legends, products and books.
Koorawatha Reserve :
Make your way to the village of Koorawatha the gateway to the Koorawatha Nature Reserve. Enjoy a counter meal at the Koorawatha Hotel, then head off to explore the nature reserve. Depending on weather conditions the falls may be flowing, a spectacular sight. Check road conditions at the pub before leaving as four wheel drives are recommended and you may need to stop and walk some distance into the reserve area. Before you leave find the sign commemorating the battle between Bushranger Ben Hall and his accomplices and police at the site of the old Bang Bang Hotel.
Touts Lookout :
Take Scenic Road (gravel) via Touts Lookout to one of the area’s most stunning sites.
EXPLORE NATURE - BOOROWA - MURRINGO - KOORAWATHA - TOUTS LOOKOUT - YOUNG
This is Country Living Tempt your tastebuds on this five-day tour through the delicious Yass Valley, Hilltops region and NSW Southern Tablelands. A bounty of cool climate wineries, local producers, quality regional restaurants and farm stops create the perfect culinary country escape.
DAY 1: GUNDAROO
Your road trip begins in the pretty Yass Valley. First stop is the quaint village of Gundaroo, a National Trust-classified treasure. Walk the main street of Gundaroo and you’ll feel like you’re in an outdoor heritage museum, with old cottages and historic buildings lining the strip.
Spend a leisurely day ambling between Gundaroo’s local wineries and learn about the cool climate wines that make the Canberra District Wine Region an exciting find. Stop by Tallagandra Hill to try wine varieties like tempranillo, vermentino and cabernet sauvignon. Then linger over a relaxed courtyard lunch with lake views at Lerida Estate, or a fine dining experience at Lake George Winery, one of the oldest vineyards in the area
Book a table for dinner at Grazing and enjoy a multi-course feast that celebrates local seasonal produce and Canberra District wines. This culinary treat is set in the beautifully-restored Royal Hotel, built in 1865.
Drive:
25 min (30 km)
EXPLORE DAY 1: GUNDAROO
DAY 2: MURRUMBATEMAN
It’s a new day and more gourmet delights await in Murrumbateman, a 30min drive west through scenic countryside. The wine capital of the Canberra District Wine Region, this former gold mining village is home to cellar doors, vineyard restaurants and artisan producers.
Start your day of wine tasting at Clonakilla Wines, a relaxed cellar door fashioned from reclaimed timber. Next is Four Winds Vineyard Cellar Door, where you’ll enjoy boutique wines and stunning vineyard views.
Call into Robyn Rowe Chocolates and stock up on handcrafted chocolates, with flavours including French vanilla, cherry port and Frangelico. At lunchtime, enjoy a three-course meal or picnic hamper at artisan smokehouse Poachers Pantry. Before you leave, visit the farm shop for take-home smoked meats like kangaroo prosciutto and smoked duck breast.
Lastly, enjoy a glass of riesling or shiraz overlooking the vineyard at Shaw Wines, and stay for dinner at the winery restaurant Olleyville.
Drive:
1 hour (85 km)
EXPLORE DAY 2: MURRUMBATEMAN
DAY 3: JUGIONG
This morning you’re heading an hour northwest through the Yass Plains, en route to the charming village of Jugiong. Tucked just off the Hume Highway, between the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, Jugiong is a peaceful pocket and gourmet destination in its own right. It serves as a tasty introduction to the Hilltops region.
For breakfast, grab some delicious baked goods from the artisan bakery at The Sir George, a restaurant and bar found in a beautifully-restored pub built in 1852, and enjoy a casual picnic in Jugiong’s riverside reserve. Or sit down to free range eggs and house-smoke trout at the Long Track Pantry.
Continue your education in the region’s winemaking talents at Jugiong Wine Cellar. This regional wine cellar is a one-stop-shop, showcasing hard-to-find wines from 28 different wineries in the local wine regions of Riverina, Tumbarumba, Hilltops and Canberra District. Here you can also browse and buy regional art, and pick up a takeaway coffee ready for your next leg.
Drive:
35 min (40 km)
EXPLORE DAY 3: JUGIONG
DAY 3: HARDEN AND MURRUMBURRAH
Back in the car, drive further north into the Hilltops region, an area known for its country charm and epicurean delights. You’ll enjoy the changing vistas of the southwest slopes of the Great Dividing Range, before arriving 30min later in the twin towns of Harden and Murrumburrah – the perfect place to stop for lunch.
Feel like a schnitzel and chips or a burger? Grab a hearty feed at The Light Horse Hotel, a historic country pub, or pick up some sandwiches and baked goods at Jackson's Bakery and Cafe.
Dramatic church spires and towers give Harden and Murrumburrah a spectacular silhouette. A block back from Burley Griffin Way, you’ll find Harden’s charming landscaped main street, Neill Street. On the corner of Bathurst Street, look out for the life-sized bronze statue of Bill the Bastard, Australia's greatest war horse.
Drive:
30 min (35 km)
EXPLORE DAY 3: HARDEN AND MURRUMBURRAH
DAY 3: YOUNG
Enjoy the scenic 30min drive north to Young, past orchards, vineyards and olive groves. This historic gold rush town in the heart of the Hilltops region is now famous for its delicious cherries. Learn about the town’s eventful history at Lambing Flat Folk Museum.
Refuel one of the many cafes, where you’ll be greeted by the aroma of freshly-roasted coffee beans and an assortment of cakes and various delicious choices. More treats for the sweet-toothed await at Poppa's Fudge and Jam Factory. Stock up on fudges, jams and chutneys, all made using local produce.
Young’s cool climate is ideal for growing stone fruits and grapes. Try the local drop at Grove Estate Wines. If it’s the right time of year, pick your own cherries at Allambie Orchard and Cafe. Then head to Ballinaclash Orchard and Cellar Door for more cherry, apricot and plum-picking. If time permits, join a cherry pie making class.
Drive:
40 min (50 km)
EXPLORE DAY 3: YOUNG
DAY 4: BOOROWA
Wake up early and make tracks for Boorowa, a 40min drive through bushland and the historic village of Murringo. Boorowa is a beautiful rural town rich in Irish heritage, and home to a long tradition of pastoral activity, heritage walks and a famous wool festival.
Walk the wide open, marvelously manicured main street of Marsden Street, and you’ll appreciate the town’s heritage charm and beautifully-preserved architecture. Approaching the bridge over Boorowa River, you can’t miss the unique red-brick octagonal Boorowa War Memorial, built in 1933, with its terra cotta-tiled roof and four-faced clock turret.
Time for breakfast. Head to the Marsden Street in the heart of town for a delicious coffee, gourmet sourdough toasties and other delicious treats. Not just a cafe, this store also boasts specialty grocery goods and unique gifts and goodies, all housed in the beautifully restored former butcher's store. Alternatively, you can pop across the road to the Superb Bakery for an old fashion country pie, lamington and other baked goods and hot drinks.
Drive:
1 hour 5 min (90 km)
EXPLORE DAY 4: BOOROWA
DAY 4: CROOKWELL
Continue east through rolling farmland to the village of Crookwell. Perched high on the Great Dividing Range, this pretty country town is a delight to wander, with its tree-lined streets and beautiful heritage buildings.
Enjoy a unique rural experience on an alpaca farm tour, where you’ll learn about the alpaca industry and handfeed animals.
In the nearby village of Laggan, 10min from Crookwell, Laggan Pantry is a delicious stop. Surrounded by the picturesque gardens of the old police barracks (circa 1837), savour a lovely lunch made using seasonal produce. There’s also an on-site farm gate store and brewery tap room to discover.
Breathe in that fresh country air or enjoy a headier scent at Crystal Brook Gardens and Lavender Farm, home to gorgeous themed gardens, a cafe serving high tea and 60 varieties of lavender. It’s also on the way to your next destination.
Drive:
35 min (40 km)
EXPLORE DAY 4: CROOKWELL
DAY 4: TARALGA
One more stop for the day: the picturesque town of Taralga, a short drive northeast along a quiet country back road. You might even spot some wildlife along the way. Once in this peaceful town, you’ll notice a beautiful collection of stone buildings from the 1800s.
One of these buildings is the Taralga Hotel, built in 1876. Here, appreciate the country hospitality and a quality pub feed – there’s everything from pizza to fish and chips and burgers to choose from. You can also spend the night in the pub-stay accommodation.
Another dinner option is The Argyle Inn, awarded one chefs hat in the 2020 Good Food Guide. Enjoy a simple yet sophisticated menu that showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. If the weather permits, you can sit outside in the kitchen garden courtyard before retiring to your room. The luxury accommodation at this historic hotel, built in 1875, is beautifully-appointed with period features, perfect for some indulgence.
Drive:
35 min (45 km)
EXPLORE DAY 4: TARALGA
DAY 5: GOULBURN
Day five begins with a leisurely 30min drive through lush undulating hills and natural bushland to Goulburn, a historic town full of colonial grandeur, captivating galleries and a burgeoning food scene.
On the way, drop in to boutique winery Kingsdale Wines. Taste their popular Emma shiraz, award-winning sauvignon blanc and sweet orange liqueur wine, while enjoying scenic views over Lake Sooley.
Once that’s ticked off, head to Goulburn Regional Art Gallery and view its collection of contemporary art, before touring the largest heritage based operating roundhouse in NSW at the Goulburn Rail Heritage Centre. If you’ve got time, there’s a number of other museums, homesteads and galleries where you can soak up Goulburn’s history and cultural scene.
And finally, don't miss the chance to take your photo with the Big Merino, a 15m high celebration of Goulburn’s fine wool industry and one of Australia’s iconic ‘big things’.
Drive:
1 hour (85 km)
EXPLORE DAY 5: GOULBURN
DAY 5: BRAIDWOOD
Back on the road, head south for Braidwood, an enchanting village that’s a popular resting place for road trippers. Part of the place’s charm is that the entire town is State Heritage-listed for its Georgian Town Plan – one of the last remaining in Australia.
Explore the main thoroughfare of Wallace Street and the leafy Duncan Street, and you’ll find a treasure trove of preserved 19th century Georgian architecture, along with delightful antique stores, cafes and speciality shops.
Learn about the town’s fascinating history, including the gold rush of the 1850s, at the Braidwood Museum, found in a building that’s part of that story – the town’s first hotel, built in the 1840s.
Ready for lunch? Drop by the Bushranger Bistro at the Royal Motel Hotel Braidwood, and tuck into a classic pub meal. Try the surf ‘n’ turf – that’s steak topped with prawns and hollandaise sauce, served with chips and salad.
Drive:
35 min (50 km)
EXPLORE DAY 5: BRAIDWOOD
DAY 5: BUNGENDORE
Retrace your steps along Kings Highway before heading west in the direction of Canberra. Your final destination is the historic rural village of Bungendore, a befitting end to your gourmet getaway, full of wineries, restaurants and markets.
First, browse high-end Australian wood art, giftware, sculpture and contemporary furniture at Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, before spending the afternoon hopping between local cool climate wineries.
Start at Summerhill Road Vineyard, found high on the Lake George Escarpment (you'll need to call ahead and make an appointment). Taste elegant wines at Contentious Character – you might even spot a kangaroo bounding through the vines. Then sample biodynamic wines in the intimate stone-walled cellar door at Lark Hill Winery.
Conclude your epicurean adventure at The George Bar and Dining, enjoying a dinner of local produce and Canberra District wines. Alternatively, take part in a cooking class at Le Tres Bon Restaurant and Cooking School, followed by a feast of authentic French dishes.
EXPLORE DAY 5: BUNGENDORE