Wollondilly Local History
The Wollondilly region is situated in the south-west of New South Wales, Australia and is known for its picturesque natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. The region is bordered by the Blue Mountains to the east and the Southern Highlands to the north, and is home to a range of diverse environmental features such as the Wollondilly River, the Thirlmere Lakes and the Dharawal National Park.
The history of the Wollondilly region is deeply rooted in the stories and experiences of the Indigenous people who have lived here for tens of thousands of years. The traditional owners of the land are the Dharawal people, who have a strong cultural connection to the area. The Dharawal people were skilled hunters and gatherers, living off the natural resources of the land. They also had a rich cultural tradition that included storytelling, dance, art and music.
The arrival of Europeans in the late 1700s brought significant changes to the region. The first white settler in the Wollondilly area was George Bass, who explored the area in 1796. Bass was followed by other European explorers, including John Macarthur, who established a large grazing property in the area in the early 1800s. Other early European settlers included the family of explorer, Hamilton Hume, who established a property at Berrima.
The influx of European settlers led to significant changes in the landscape of the Wollondilly region, with large areas of farmland and grazing land established in the area. The region became a hub for the wool industry and was also known for its timber production. Many of the historic buildings and structures in the area date back to this time, including the historic railway line and station at Thirlmere and the Picton Post Office, which was built in the early 1800s.
The Wollondilly region has also played a significant role in the development of the Australian railway network. The area was home to the first railway line in New South Wales, which ran between Sydney and Parramatta before being extended to Goulburn and other areas. The railway line at Thirlmere was also an important part of the railway network, serving as a hub for the transportation of goods and people throughout the region.
The Wollondilly region has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is reflected in its many historic buildings, landscapes and stories. The area is home to a range of festivals and events that celebrate the unique history and culture of the region, including the annual Wollondilly Heritage Festival and the Thirlmere Festival of Steam.
Today, the Wollondilly region is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with a range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. From exploring the stunning natural scenery of the Dharawal National Park and the Thirlmere Lakes, to experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the area through its museums, galleries and historic sites, there is something to suit all tastes and interests in this beautiful part of New South Wales.