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Coolumbooka Bridge — Image credit: Bombala Visitors Centre

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Crankies Plains Bridge over Coolumbooka River

Crankies Plain Bridge over Coolumbooka River is of state significance. The bridge was completed in 1892, and is one of the seven McDonald timber truss road bridges remaining in New South Wales. Timber truss road bridges were extensively used in New South Wales because of the high quality of local hardwoods and the shortage of steel during the early decades of settlement of the state. Spare a few minutes to admire Crankies Plain Bridge when out and about in the Bombala area. You may even spot a platypus or two.

Bombala NSW

0.2 km away

Bombala Railway Station — Image credit: Allen Simpson

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bombala Historic Railway

Bombala Historic Railway opened in 1921. It is a precast concrete building with a tin goods shed. The goods shed houses a small museum and lavender distilling plant. It also has a turntable and weighbridge. The precinct is 900 metres long. The line is known as the Goulburn Bombala line with Bombala the end of the line. The station and information structure is almost complete. A well maintained precinct ground with easy access to all parts of the station . Set in a regional setting on the southern end of the Southern Tablelands NSW in the Monaro Region.

Bombala NSW

0.3 km away

Lavender House

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Lavender House in Railway Park

Once the convent for the sisters of St. Joseph, this historic red brick building at Railway Park now houses a beautiful array of locally produced lavender products and local historical information. Essential lavender oil distillations and talks can be arranged with prior notice. A visit to Lavender House allows you the chance to soak up the history of the area and experience the delights of lavender. The Bombala Visitors Centre is located next door, and the staff can assist you with all local accommodation options and attraction information.

Bombala NSW

3.2 km away

Platypus Reserve — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Natural Attractions

Bombala Platypus Reserve

Due to the high numbers of platypus found in their pristine rivers and streams, the Bombala region is known as Platypus Country. The Platypus Reserve is located 4.2 kilometres from Bombala on the Delegate Road and is ideal for seeing a platypus. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to see them. Look for a V shape in the water. The raised platform makes viewing easy for all age groups. Platypus can stay underwater for up to 14 minutes, but more commonly, they will only remain under for between 60 to 90 seconds, so be patient and quiet when viewing this national treasure. The on-site information boards provide you with comprehensive details about the platypus, and the newly installed walkways will make your exploring more enjoyable. The reserve is a great spot to sit and enjoy lunch or simply soak up the peace and quiet. Picnic tables are provided, and there are two bird hides to allow you to really experience the birdlife.

Bombala NSW

3.5 km away

Pheasants Peak Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Pheasants Peak Walking Track

Go walking through tall eucalypts and alongside huge granite boulders. Stop to take in the view as you look across the Monaro Plains towards the Snowy Mountains. Ascend through lush old growth forest, passing by stands of White Ash forest and Brown Barrel before approaching the summit where you’ll find a remarkable scattering of giant, granite tors. It’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy picnicking with a view, especially at sunset. On a clear day the views are spectacular. Yet it is equally striking and timeless on days when onshore winds blow in orographic mists and the landscape is shrouded in a thick cloud.

Paddys Flat NSW

19 km away

Myanba Gorge walking track

Natural Attractions

Myanba Gorge walking track

Myanba Gorge walking track is a short walk that offers young and old the opportunity to experience this unique natural setting. The wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the first viewing platform enables disabled and mobility impaired visitors to enjoy the views. And for those of you who want to venture further on foot, continue the track through the gorge. There is plenty of wildlife to see. Look out for echidnas, swamp wallabies, red-neck wallabies as well as the many forest birds you’ll find. Pay special attention for the diamond pythons sometimes seen at the Gorge viewing platform. Why not make a day of it, pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the many stops along this remarkable car-touring route. The round-trip from Bombala takes you to Myanba Gorge and Pheasants Peak via the towering canopies of old-growth forest trees.

Coolangubra NSW

19 km away

Myanba Gorge lookout

Natural Attractions

Myanba Gorge lookout

Set in mighty old-growth forest and comprising three lookouts, a picnic area, a boardwalk and walking track, this part of the park is a must for nature-lovers. Start with lunch at the well-equipped picnic area before taking the easy and accessible boardwalk stroll. At the first lookout you’re treated to picture-perfect views of fast-flowing Myanba Creek. Here, it surges over the escarpment across a huge granite slab, so visit after rain, if you can, to see a stronger, more spectacular flow. Follow the creek if you choose to keep on walking – it’s a moderate walk that's well worth the effort. See the numerous torrents burble through the rocks or snake off into rivulets and stunning cascades. Take a quick dip if you like, and look for streaked rock orchids and the gorgeous purple-spotted flowers of the Victorian Christmas Bush. The third lookout rewards your efforts with views of the remarkable geology of Myanba Gorge and Bega’s pretty Towamba Valley. Return to the picnic area the way you came, listening out for distinctive ‘creaky gate’ calls of gang gang cockatoos.

Coolangubra NSW

19 km away

South East Forest National Park

National Parks and Reserves

South East Forest National Park

South East Forest National Park is a place that protects soaring old-growth forests, rugged granite formations and picturesque valleys and gorges. There are more than 100km of spectacular coastal escarpment, tableland edge and hinterland country for you to explore. This beautiful, untamed park is also home to several threatened and endangered species. See historic sites, hike to lofty peaks, peer from lookouts, and roam through wet fern forest. There are also plenty of opportunities for horse riding and cycling along park trails and picnicking at one of many scenic spots. The park isn't far from Bega, Merimbula or Bombala so it makes a great daytrip on the weekend, and if you're travelling from further afield or feel like a night in the bush, there are a number of quiet campgrounds to choose from and they're all free. Enjoy the blissful evening of solitude before getting up to explore more of this special place.

Coolangubra NSW

22 km away

South East Forests National Park — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

South East Forests National Park

Fancy a spot of birdwatching, horseriding, camping or bushwalking? At South East Forests National Park, near Bega on NSW’s far south coast, you can do all this and more. South East Forests National Park is a place that protects soaring old-growth forests, rugged granite formations and picturesque valleys and gorges. There are more than 100 kilometres of spectacular coastal escarpment, tableland edge and hinterland country for you to explore. This beautiful, untamed park is also home to several threatened and endangered species. See historic sites, hike to lofty peaks, peer from lookouts, and roam through wet fern forest. There are also plenty of opportunities for horse riding and cycling along park trails and picnicking at one of many scenic spots. The park isn’t far from Bega, Merimbula or Bombala so it makes a great daytrip on the weekend, and if you’re travelling from further afield or feel like a night in the bush, there are a number of quiet campgrounds to choose from and they’re all free.

Coolangubra NSW

24 km away

White Rock River picnic area

Natural Attractions

White Rock River picnic area

The waterfalls, forest giants and ancient granite tors car touring route will take you right past White Rock River picnic area. Located in the south western side of the park, this great picnic spot features picnic tables and wood barbecues set beneath a towering canopy of ribbon gums; it’s a great place to stop to stretch your legs. As well as being easy on the eyes, this part of the park is especially important. It provides the habitat for the endangered long-footed potoroo. While you’re unlikely to see one of these nocturnal marsupials yourself, you may well spot their tiny tracks, newly-dug holes or even some of their favourite snack; fungi.

Rockton NSW

27 km away

Inside the Shed

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bombala Historic Engine and Machinery Shed

The Historic Engine and Machinery Society has restored a vast number of engines and farming implements from around the district. The Shed is a must for those with an interest in the history of the area and engines in particular. Every two years the Society conducts a large Engine Rally with all the equipment on display.

Bombala NSW

30 km away

Early Settlers Hut — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Early Settlers Hut

The Early Settlers Hut, situated one-kilometre southwest of the township of Delegate on the Bonang Highway, is not only of unique local significance but has associations going back to the earliest establishment of European settlement in the colony. The building is of the type erected by squatters in the mid-1840s when they were first given some form of permanent occupancy, and this hut undoubtedly dates from this period. Historical information points to the hut being originally used as a manager's residence (the first manager being Mr Donald Ross). When first constructed, the hut was not as large as it is today. The hut was restored using timbers obtained locally and worked with tools such as adzes and broad axes by local craftsmen practising a bygone era.

Delegate NSW

30 km away

Pipers lookout

Natural Attractions

Pipers lookout

Take a break from your journey over Brown Mountain at Pipers lookout. This series of lookouts offers spellbinding views over the Bemboka escarpment and Bega Valley. After checking out the main lookout near the picnic area, follow the 500m boardwalk to a further two lookouts. While this isn't quite a canopy walk, the descending slope beneath the boardwalk gives you the feeling of floating amongst the eucalypts and lush ferns. You can use the stairs to make a loop of the three lookouts. Whatever you do, be sure to bring your camera the surrounding old-growth forest and rainforest create excellent photo opportunities.

Bemboka NSW

39 km away

Myrtle Mountain lookout

Natural Attractions

Myrtle Mountain lookout

You may think driving through the park’s lush wet-fern forest is as stunning as it gets, but then you arrive at Myrtle Mountain lookout. Located on Myrtle Mountain Road, this hidden gem offers a sweeping northern vista across Bega Valley farmland. You’re also treated to eastern views of scenic Candelo and Wolumla, as well as the fringing escarpment and rolling hills surrounding the valley. The ideal place to stretch your legs, take a tea break and soak up some views while driving from Eden or Bega, this lookout is popular with travellers and locals alike. Relax at a picnic table and feel the crisp NSW south coastal breeze. Listen out and scan the undergrowth for lyrebirds or, if you’re stopping by at night, look out for possums and gliders in the area.

Myrtle Mountain NSW

41 km away

Goodenia Rainforest Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Yurasek

Natural Attractions

Goodenia Rainforest Walking Track

Set out on the Goodenia Rainforest walk and discover a magnificent stand of cool temperate rainforest that is unique in this part of NSW. An excellent track for walking with children, the 1.2 kilometre nature walk leads down into a lush gully of ferns and understorey species. Enjoy the shade provided by the dense lilly pilly canopy and keep an eye out for moss-covered rocks, vines and quirky-looking beetles as you explore. As you walk, listen out for the wonderful stream of mimicked calls performed by the superb lyrebird or the whip-crack song of the eastern whipbird. The walk starts at Goodenia Rainforest picnic area, so if you have time before or after the walk you could stop for a picnic or barbecue lunch.

South Wolumla NSW

42 km away

Goodenia Rainforest picnic area

Natural Attractions

Goodenia Rainforest picnic area

Grab a picnic table and cook up a tasty lunch on the barbecue at Goodenia Rainforest picnic area. Sheltered by mighty old-growth eucalypts in a patch of cool temperate rainforest, this picnic spot is the gateway to the exquisite Goodenia Rainforest walking track, an easy walk through a lush understorey of lilly pilly. The picnic area is a great spot to stop and relax before or after completing the 40-minute return walk. If you're lucky, you'll spy some of the numerous birds living in the area, including lyrebirds and satin bowerbirds. See if you can spot the marvellous striped tail of the fan-tailed cuckoo.

South Wolumla NSW

43 km away

Candelo village — Image credit: David Rogers Photography

Landmarks and Buildings

Candelo

Travelling inland along the valley of the Bega River, the road ambles through rich dairy and beef country before arriving at the historical village of Candelo. The town remains a meeting place and through fare for travellers, musicians and artists. Set on the banks of the Candelo River and with a population of just 300, you'll be surprised by the local fare and busy events calendar. On the first Sunday of each month, the town hosts one of the region's oldest markets and there are regular music festivals, open recordings and performances at the historical town hall and St Peter's Church. The famed Candelo Village Festival occurs every two years and is a celebration of music, arts, crafts and village life. Although bullock teams no longer pass through town and there is little need for blacksmith's shops, a walk along these streets conjures up images of a past way of life. Candelo today still retains many of its nineteenth-century old buildings, offering a warm and open reception to travellers. Candelo is surrounded by beautiful old forests and clear waterways. In South East Forests National Park you can take bushwalks through old-growth forest, go boulder hopping through the network of waterways, picnic by a creek or take exploratory drives along the forest trails.

Candelo NSW

44 km away

Coopracambra National Park — Image credit: Park Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Coopracambra National Park

Coopracambra National Park is in one of the most remote sections of Victoria and remains largely undisturbed. The red sandstone gorge of the Genoa River and the surrounding granite peaks form some outstanding scenery. The park is of high conservation value with its undisturbed ecosystems, a heritage river, rare flora and fauna and diverse landscape. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Chandlers Creek VIC

45 km away

Waalimma picnic area

Natural Attractions

Waalimma picnic area

The beautifully secluded Waalimma picnic area is a fantastic place to pause before or after completing a walk into the Genoa wilderness. Located near the Waalimma campground, fringed by red box eucalyptus, this great picnic spot is equipped with fire rings, picnic tables and an education and visitor centre. This remote part of South East Forest National Park, characterised by impressive Devonian geology with sheer cliffs, large waterholes and sandy beaches, is beloved by experienced, self-reliant bushwalkers. Venture down here with some goodies to munch and be immersed in the beauty and tranquillity of your surroundings. As well as picnicking and beginning a hike from this serene vantage point, you can head out for a river swim, go exploring or rock-hopping, or indulge in a spot of birdwatching. Listen at night to the conversation of nocturnal birds, including sooty owls and southern boobooks, known as mopokes', and keep an eye out for more emblematic Aussie wildlife. Wallabies, dingoes, emus and wombats are part of this bush neighbourhood, along with lizards, snakes and possums.

Nungatta NSW

45 km away

Old Flour Mill — Image credit: Vickie Pollard

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Nimmitabel Heritage Walk

Discover the rich history of the village of Nimmitabel by taking the Heritage Walk, which explores the township and can be completed in an hour or can be broken into shorter walks. The walk encompasses Geldmacher House - circa 1863, the Town Well, the Old Mill - circa 1872, the beautiful St Andrews Church, Cenotaph and many other interesting features and buildings that make up the history of this lovely little village. There are also some lovely little shops and cafes to pop into along the way. Information is available from the Cooma Visitors Centre, located on the corner of Centennial Park, Cooma, or the Nimmitabel Post Office.

Nimmitabel NSW

45 km away

Mount Imlay National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Mount Imlay National Park

Mount Imlay National Park is a peaceful pocket of remote bushland, narrow rocky ridges and deep gullies, just 30km south of Eden on NSW's far south coast. It's a perfect place for those who want to get back to nature and bask in the peace and quiet of the bush. The park is part of a system of national parks and reserves that protect the coastline and ranges between Moruya and the East Gippsland region of Victoria, along with nearby parks like South East Forests National Park and Nadgee Nature Reserve. As a symbol of this, its skyline is dominated by Mount Imlay, or Balawan', as it's known to local Aboriginal people Take a scenic drive through the bush and spend the afternoon picnicking under the trees. If you're a fit walker and up for a challenge, why not venture off and walk to the summit of Mount Imlay? You'll enjoy birdwatching along the way and incredible filtered coastal views from the top.

Towamba NSW

52 km away

Koala encounter

Amusement and Theme Parks

Potoroo Palace - Native Wildlife Park

Potoroo Palace Native Wildlife Park is located 10 minutes north of Merimbula on Princess Highway. They are passionate about conservation, education and community. Visit the park to see koalas, wombats, echidnas and long nosed potoroos. Wander among the kangaroos, touch a snake, stroll through the walk-through aviary with the gang gang cockatoos and have a great coffee at the cafe. And you might find a something precious and fun in our very popular shop. You can get up close to kangaroos, emus, ducks and native geese who roam the park freely and hand feed them with an Animal Feed Bag that is available at the entrance. And take a train ride on the popular train!

Yellow Pinch NSW

53 km away

Mount Imlay Summit Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Mount Imlay Summit Walking Track

Starting at Burrawang picnic area, this challenging walk takes you through dry eucalypt forests and grassy woodlands to the summit of Mount Imlay. The track climbs steeply, rising 600 metres, but there’s plenty to distract you from the effort along the way. In spring, stop to admire the delicate beauty and bright colours of wildflowers like mountain speedwell. Once you reach the summit, enjoy a rest and take in the views to the coast while you enjoy your picnic lunch. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mallacoota in Victoria, and Narooma to the north. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching. Watch for yellow-tailed black cockatoos flying overhead and listen closely for lyrebirds as you’re walking up the mountain.

Narrabarba NSW

55 km away

Site of the Bega Valley Genealogy Society Inc 42 Toallo St, Pambula.

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Bega Valley Genealogy Society

Everybody has Ancestors - if you trace yours to the Bega Valley, contact or visit the Bega Valley Genealogy Society Inc to see what the archives reveal about your ancestor/s and remember your research and the research of social historians, can reveal so much about the Valley's social history of the days of long ago. Incorporated in 1988, the Bega Valley Genealogy Society Inc is a repository and research centre and custodian of an invaluable local history library and archival collections including old photos. The important archives and photo collections of Kameruka Estate and Ayredale where your ancestor might have lived and worked; old rate books, maps and so much more - assets for the benefit of future generations as the dedicated team of volunteers build on the work of the Society's founding forbears - collecting, preserving, archiving and maintain its many collections. It is all housed in an important heritage listed building - the Old Pambula Courthouse and Police Station c1862.

Pambula NSW

56 km away

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