GOULBURN - NEW SOUTH WALES
Goulburn developed as a regional centre for one of the country's most productive wool growing areas. The railway from Sydney was completed in 1869 and the commercial aspect of the community burgeoned with its added ability to supply districts farther to the south. Today the city has a population of 24,500.
In the centre of the retail area is Belmore Park, a scenic area with spacious lawns and large shady trees that is ideal for picnicking. The Goulburn Visitors Centre and the impressive courthouse buildings (1887) are opposite the park.
The Rocky Hill War Memorial was built by public subscription in 1923 at a then cost of 16,000 dollars. The 20 metre high tower is in memory of district residents who gave their lives in the Great War and is floodlit at night. The base of the tower houses a military museum and eternal flame. It is open at weekends.
Gulson's Craft Village on the northern edge of the town is set in an historic family brickworks. The old kilns have now been adapted to house skilled artisans creating a varied and comprehensive range of wares. Many old machines can be viewed, and devonshire teas and light refreshments can be savoured in the tearooms.
One of the most impressive sights as you enter Goulburn from the south is the Giant Merino. Built and opened in 1985 to demonstrate Goulburn as the 'Fine Wool Capital of the World', it is 3 stories high with a souvenir and craft stor on the bottom level, a 'History of Wool' on the first floor, and a lookout over Goulburn on the top floor. it is open from 8.00am to 8.00pm. daily.
PLACES OF INTEREST:
  • Take a "Two Foot Tour" from the Goulburn Visitors Centre to explore the history and heritage of Goulburn. Brochure and map available
  • Rocky Hill War Memorial: Built in 1923 and offering views over Goulburn and surrounds
  • Old Goulburn Brewery: Built in 1836 it is Australia's oldest surviving brewery.
  • Goulburn Regional Art Gallery:
  • The Giant Merino: History and souvenirs inside a big sheep.
    Around Goulburn
  • Bungonia State Recreation Area: Lookouts, walks, picnic and BBQ areas.
  • Wombeyan Caves: Limestone caves with caving tours.
  • Canberra: Australia's Capital is less than an hour away.
  • Worri Bridge: Braidwood Rd.\ Toilets, BBQ and picnic area.

    Annual Festivals
  • Lilac Festival: In its 41st year, held in October. Ph: (02) 4821 1839
  • Lilac City Country Music Jamboree: October. Ph: (02) 4821 9087
    ACCOMMODATION & SERVICES:

    ACCOMMODATION
  • Goulburn Heritage Lodge
    LICENSED CLUBS & HOTELS
  • Tully Park Tavern
    • INFORMATION CENTRE:
    Goulburn Visitors Centre
    201 Sloane St. Goulburn. N.S.W. 2580
    Ph: (02) 4823 4492
    Fax: (02) 4822 2692
    Open Mon.-Fri. 9am to 5pm. Weekends 9.30am to 3.30pm.
    HOW TO GET THERE:
    By road from Melbourne or Sydney along the Hume Highway. | By coach using Murrays which operates daily services to Wollongong and Canberra: Fearnes: operates daily to Wagga Wagga and Sydney; Sid Foggs: frequent services to Newcastle and Canberra.
    Rail from Sydney or Melbourne. | Light planes. |
    • © Copyright Peter W. Wilkins 2006