Conargo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids ConargoNew South Wales |
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The "famed" Conargo Pub praised by the Ute Muster sub-culture
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 Conargo
Location in New South Wales
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| Population | 117 (2006 census) |
| Postcode(s) | 2710 |
| Elevation | 95 m (312 ft) |
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| LGA(s) | Edward River Council |
| County | Townsend |
| State electorate(s) | Murray |
| Federal Division(s) | Farrer |
Conargo is a small town in the Riverina region of New South Wales, Australia. This area is known for its wide-open spaces and farming. Conargo is part of the Edward River Council local government area.
The town is located on Billabong Creek, which is a smaller stream that flows into the Edward River. The nearest towns are Jerilderie and Deniliquin. In 2006, about 117 people lived in Conargo.
The Aboriginal name for the Conargo area was 'Gooriara'. This name means "hopping" or "kangaroo ground." It's a fitting name, as kangaroos are often seen in this region.
Conargo itself is quite small. It has a local gathering place (a pub), a small shop that sells fuel, and a few houses. There are also five nearby villages: Blighty, Mayrung, Pretty Pine, Wanganella and Booroorban.
The land around Conargo is mostly made up of large sheep farms, called stations. Some of these farms specialize in raising Merino sheep, which are famous for their soft wool. These special farms are known as studs.
Conargo's Past
Early Days
Conargo has a long history. In 1859, a man named William McKenzie opened the Conargo Inn. This inn was named after a nearby large farm, also called "Conargo."
A town plan for Conargo was officially drawn up in 1860 by a surveyor named McCulloch. By 1865, another hotel, the Riverine Hotel, was built in the village. The Conargo Post Office opened on September 1, 1864, helping people send and receive mail.
Growing Village
In 1866, Conargo was home to about thirty people. It had a post office, a store, and two hotels. Another hotel, the Billabong Hotel, was added in 1867. In 1869, the Baker brothers built another store in the town. By 1872, Conargo was described as a small village with a store and three hotels.
The Conargo Public School opened its doors in 1879. This provided education for the children living in and around Conargo.
The Conargo Pub Today
The famous Conargo Pub was sadly destroyed by a fire on November 11, 2014. However, the community worked hard to rebuild it. The pub officially reopened in October 2022, continuing its role as a popular meeting spot in the area.
