Gilgai, New South Wales facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Gilgai New South Wales
Thunderbolts Way
Gilgai Location in New South Wales
Population	289 (2006 census)
Postcode(s)	2360
Location	10 km (6 mi) S of Inverell
LGA(s)	Inverell Shire
State electorate(s)	Northern Tablelands
Federal Division(s)	New England

Gilgai is a small town located in the beautiful Northern Tablelands region of New South Wales, Australia. You can find it about 10 kilometers (that's about 6 miles) south of the larger town of Inverell. Gilgai is situated right on Thunderbolts Way, a well-known road. It's also part of the Inverell Shire, which is a local government area. Back in 2006, the town had a population of 289 people. The name "Gilgai" comes from an Aboriginal word that means 'waterhole'.

Discover Gilgai: A Small Town with Big History

Gilgai might be a small town, but it has some interesting stories, especially about its past. The area is known for its unique mining history and its strong connection to farming.

Mining for Treasures

The land around Gilgai is special because of its old mine shafts. These shafts are quite unique in Australia. They are called 'concertina shafts' because the valuable tin ore was found in a zigzag pattern deep underground. Miners had to follow this pattern as they dug, making the shafts look a bit like a concertina (an instrument that folds and unfolds).

Besides tin, miners also found precious stones here. These include beautiful sapphires, sparkling rubies, and even some rare diamonds! Imagine finding a diamond in your backyard!

Farming and Local Life

Farming is a very important part of life in Gilgai. One of the main industries here is raising beef cattle. This means many farms in the area are dedicated to cows that provide meat.

Another important product from Gilgai is wine. Wine grapes were first planted here way back in 1849 by a person named Charles Wyndham. After a break, grape growing was started again in 1968. Today, the wine industry continues to be a key part of the local economy.

What You'll Find in Gilgai

Even though it's a small town, Gilgai has several important places for its community. The local public school was built a long time ago, in 1878. The bricks for the school were actually made right there on the site!

The town also has a general store where you can buy everyday items. There's a rural supplies store too, which sells things needed for farming. For spiritual life, there is an Anglican Church and a Salvation Army Church. The community also has a hall for gatherings and events, and a tennis complex for sports and fun. The Gilgai Post Office first opened its doors on November 16, 1879.