Narrandera is a charming town located in the Riverina region of New South Wales, Australia, with a rich history and plenty to offer visitors who are looking to experience rural Australia. It is situated on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, approximately 550 km southwest of Sydney and 420 km northeast of Melbourne.
The town has a population of around 4,500 people and is known for its agricultural industries, particularly the production of rice, wheat, and wool. It is also a popular spot for fishing and camping, with the Murrumbidgee River providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities.
Narrandera has a rich history, with evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back thousands of years. European settlement began in the early 1800s, with the town officially founded in 1862. The town has a number of heritage-listed buildings, including the Court House and the Railway Station.
In terms of tourism, Narrandera offers a range of attractions, including the Lake Talbot Water Park, the Narranderra Wetlands, and the Narrandera Craft and Produce Market. There are also a number of walking and cycling trails in the area, as well as a golf course and several sporting facilities.
History of Narrandera
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| Customers line up for a photo at Foley’s Railway Hotel (Lost Narrandera) |
The area now known as Narrandera has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The Wiradjuri people were the traditional owners of the land, and evidence of their occupation can be found in the form of rock art and other archaeological sites. In fact, the town takes its name from the Narrungdera clan, part of the great Wiradjuri Nation.
European settlement began in the early 1800s, with the first permanent settlement established in 1839. The town was officially founded in 1863, and it quickly became an important centre for the surrounding agricultural region.
The town played an important role in the development of the Riverina region, particularly with the introduction of irrigation systems in the late 1800s. The Murrumbidgee River, which flows through the town, was harnessed to provide water for irrigation, and this led to a significant increase in agricultural production in the area.
During World War II, Narrandera was home to the No. 7 Service Flying Training School, which trained Australian and Allied pilots. The airfield was used for training until 1945, and today it is the site of the Tiger Moth Memorial, which honours the pilots who trained there.
Narrandera has also been affected by floods throughout its history, with major floods occurring in 1886, 1952, and 2012. The most devastating flood occurred in 1952 when the Murrumbidgee River reached a record height of 10.73 metres and caused widespread damage to the town.
Today, Narrandera is a thriving town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. It is a popular tourist destination, particularly for those interested in exploring the natural beauty of the Riverina region.
Attractions in Narrandera
Narrandera has a lot to offer visitors in terms of attractions and activities. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Narrandera:
- Narrandera Wetlands - The wetlands are a must-visit attraction in Narrandera, as they offer a unique and tranquil environment for visitors to explore. The area is home to a wide variety of birdlife, and there are walking and cycling trails that allow you to get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna.
- Lake Talbot Water Park - The water park is a popular spot for families, with a range of water-based activities on offer. There are water slides, a wave pool, and a children's play area, as well as barbecue facilities and picnic areas.
- Tiger Moth Memorial - a tribute to the brave pilots who trained at the No. 7 Service Flying Training School during World War II. The memorial is located on Cadell St, adjacent to the Narrandera Visitor Information Centre in Marie Bashir Park.
- Narrandera Fisheries Centre - The Fisheries Centre is a fascinating place to visit, particularly for fishing enthusiasts. There are a range of displays and exhibits that provide insight into the local fish species, as well as the history of fishing in the area.
- Narrandera Arts and Community Centre - The Arts and Community Centre hosts a range of events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, theatre performances, and musical concerts. It is also home to a gallery that displays works by local artists.
- Koala Reserve - The Koala Reserve is a conservation area that is home to a number of koalas, as well as other native wildlife such as kangaroos and wallabies. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve and learn more about these amazing animals and their habitat.
These are just a few of the many attractions that can be found in Narrandera, and there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful town.
STAY:
Motel. Bishop's Lodge. Familiar motel-style rooms and facilities.
Basic Budget. Historic Star Lodge. The old Star Hotel ceased trading in the 1970s and has since been converted into comfortable budget lodging. Book via booking.com
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