Gravesend, New South Wales facts for kids
Quick facts for kids GravesendNew South Wales |
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Gwydir Highway, Gravesend
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 Gravesend
Location in New South Wales
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| Population | 299 (2021 census) |
| Postcode(s) | 2401 |
| Elevation | 275 m (902 ft) |
| Location | |
| LGA(s) | Gwydir Shire |
| County | Burnett |
| State electorate(s) | Northern Tablelands |
| Federal Division(s) | Parkes |
Gravesend is a small village in the North West Slopes region of New South Wales, Australia. It's about 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) west of Warialda along the Gwydir Highway. The village is close to the Gwydir River and is part of the Gwydir Shire local government area.
Gravesend is located about 615 kilometres (382 miles) north of Sydney, which is the capital city of New South Wales. In 2021, Gravesend and the areas around it had a population of 299 people. The village sits at an elevation of about 275 metres (904 feet) above sea level.
Contents
History of Gravesend
How Gravesend Started
Gravesend began as a camp for railway workers, called "fettlers", around the year 1900. These workers helped build and maintain the railway tracks. The camp was set up on a large farming property known as Gravesend station. The village officially got its name, Gravesend, in 1909.
An interesting fact is that the old railway bridge over the Gwydir River was actually brought all the way from England! The Gravesend Post Office first opened its doors on February 1, 1900.
Fighting the Prickly Pear
In the 1930s, Gravesend played an important role in fighting a big problem: a plant called prickly pear. This plant was spreading very quickly and causing a lot of damage to farmland. A research station was set up in Gravesend to breed special moths called cactoblastis moths. These moths were then released to help get rid of the prickly pear.
Farming and Local Life
The land around Gravesend is mostly used for farming. Farmers raise sheep and cattle, and they also grow wheat. There's a large silo complex in the village where the wheat crops are stored.
Life in Gravesend Today
Today, Gravesend has several important services for its community. There's a public school with about 30 students, a post office, and a local hotel. The village also has a recreation ground, which is used for events like the annual rodeo.
You can find a community centre, a District Nurse (who helps with health care), a park with play equipment, and a general store. The nearby Gwydir River is a great spot for fishing, camping, picnics, and swimming.
The Gravesend Historical Society Museum officially opened on August 16, 2008. The village also has several clubs for people to join, including a fishing club, a sewing and quilting club, a garden club, a Pony Club, and a playgroup for young children.
