Braunstone, New South Wales facts for kids

Braunstone is a small place located just south of Grafton in northern New South Wales, Australia. It sits along the Orara Way, which is a road connecting different towns.

History of Braunstone

Early Days and the Native Police

In the 1850s, Braunstone was an important spot for a group called the Native Police. They had a special camp, known as barracks, located at a place called Police Flat, close to the Orara River. This police force was made up of Aboriginal troopers led by European officers.

Role of the Native Police

The Native Police were set up to help the government keep order as more European settlers moved into the area. Their job was to enforce colonial laws and manage the interactions between settlers and local Aboriginal communities. Important officers like Edric Norfolk Vaux Morisset and John O'Connell Bligh worked at the Braunstone barracks during this time. Their presence shows that Braunstone played a role in the early history of European settlement in the region.

Geography and Transport

Location and Roads

Braunstone is positioned in a scenic part of New South Wales. Its location south of Grafton makes it part of the wider Clarence Valley region. The Orara Way is the main road that passes through Braunstone, connecting it to other nearby towns and areas.

The Railway Line

The North Coast railway line also runs through Braunstone. This railway was very important for connecting towns along the coast of New South Wales. A railway station was built in Braunstone in 1915, allowing people and goods to travel easily. Although the station is now closed, the railway line continues to be a key part of the region's transport network.