Wingecarribee Local History
Wingecarribee is a local government area located in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia. The name 'Wingecarribee' is derived from an Aboriginal term meaning 'place where wild ducks fly'. The region has a rich local history dating back to the earliest inhabitants of the land.
Aboriginal History
The Southern Highlands region has a long history of Indigenous occupation. The Gundungurra and Tharawal peoples are the traditional owners of the land that makes up the Wingecarribee area. They lived in the area for thousands of years and were skilled hunter-gatherers, living off the natural resources of the land.
The Gundungurra people had a deep connection with the land, with many cultural sites still visible in the region today. These include rock art, burial sites, ceremonial sites, and stone arrangements. These sites are protected by law and are respected by the local community.
European Settlement
European settlement in the Wingecarribee region began in the early 19th century. The first settlers arrived in the area in the 1820s, drawn to the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The main industries in the region were farming, timber production, and mining.
The town of Bowral was established in 1861, and the local area grew steadily over the following decades. The arrival of the railway in the late 19th century further facilitated growth, making it easier to transport goods between the region and other areas of New South Wales.
War Years
The Wingecarribee region played an important role in both World War I and World War II. Many local men and women enlisted to serve in the armed forces, and the region was also used as a training ground for soldiers and pilots.
The Bowral Memorial Hospital was built in the aftermath of World War I, to honour the local men who had given their lives in the conflict. The hospital was opened in 1923 and has been an important part of the community ever since.
Recent History
The Wingecarribee region has continued to grow and develop over the past century. Today, the area is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, historic buildings, and cultural attractions. The region is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with many local artists and performers showcasing their work.
The Wingecarribee Shire Council was established in 1981, to govern the local area and provide services to the community. Today, the council works to promote the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of the region, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.
History of in Wingecarribee
The local history of Wingecarribee is a rich and diverse one, spanning thousands of years of Indigenous occupation and centuries of European settlement. Today, the region is a thriving community, with a strong sense of heritage and a bright future ahead.