Rothbury, New South Wales facts for kids

Rothbury is a small town located in the beautiful Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia. It is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the city of Cessnock. In 2011, a count of people living there, called a census, showed that 452 people called Rothbury home. A nearby settlement, North Rothbury, is just a short drive to the northeast. The town is also close to the famous vineyards of Pokolbin, which are popular for visitors.

Discovering Rothbury

Rothbury is a peaceful place in the heart of the Hunter Region. This region is well-known for its stunning landscapes and many vineyards. The town offers a quiet lifestyle, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area.

Where is Rothbury?

Rothbury is located in the eastern part of Australia, within the state of New South Wales. It sits in the City of Cessnock local government area. Its closeness to Cessnock means residents can easily access bigger shops and services. The area is also part of a larger network of towns and communities.

A Look at History: The Rothbury Incident

Rothbury has an important place in Australia's history, especially regarding workers' rights. The town became known for a serious event called the Rothbury Riot. This happened on December 16, 1929, at a local coal mine.

What Happened at the Mine?

In 1929, there was a big disagreement between the coal mine owners and the miners. The owners had "locked out" the miners. This meant the miners were not allowed to work or earn money. They were trying to get better pay and working conditions.

The Day of the Incident

On that day, many miners gathered near the mine. They were protesting the lockout. Police were also there. Sadly, during the protest, a serious clash occurred. Police fired into the crowd. One miner, named Norman Brown, was killed, and many others were hurt.

Remembering Norman Brown

This event was a very sad moment in Australian history. It showed the struggles workers faced to get fair treatment. Today, there is a special monument in North Rothbury. It honors Norman Brown and reminds everyone of the Rothbury Incident. This monument helps us remember the importance of workers' rights and peaceful ways to solve problems.