Wallabadah, New South Wales facts for kids
Quick facts for kids WallabadahNew South Wales |
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Wallabadah church
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 Wallabadah
Location in New South Wales
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| Population | 746 (2006 census) |
| Postcode(s) | 2343 |
| Elevation | 478 m (1,568 ft) |
| Time zone | AEST (UTC+10) |
| • Summer (DST) | AEDT (UTC+11) |
| LGA(s) | Liverpool Plains Shire |
| County | Buckland |
| State electorate(s) | Upper Hunter |
| Federal Division(s) | New England |
Wallabadah is a small town in the New England area of New South Wales, Australia. It is located about 55 kilometres south of Tamworth. You can find it along the New England Highway. Wallabadah is part of the Liverpool Plains Shire. In 2021, about 382 people lived there.
Contents
A Look Back in Time: Wallabadah's History
The land around Wallabadah was first known as "Thalababuri." This was the name given to it by the Kamilaroi Aboriginal people. The name Wallabadah comes from an Aboriginal word meaning "stone."
Early European Settlement
Around 1830, the first European settlers arrived in the area. They set up a large farm called Wallabadah Station in 1835. This farm covered a huge area of land. By the 1850s, a small town began to grow. It was located where two important mail coach routes met. These routes came from the north and northwest. Wallabadah Post Office opened its doors on October 1, 1856.
Famous Bushranger Connection
A well-known Australian bushranger, Captain Thunderbolt, had a connection to Wallabadah. His third daughter, Mary Ann, was born here in August 1866. Captain Thunderbolt was active in the area. He even worked on a property west of Wallabadah for a time.
Wallabadah's Racing History
Wallabadah is home to Australia's very first country racing club. This club was started way back in 1852. The Wallabadah Cup horse race is still a big event today. It happens every year on New Year's Day. The current racecourse was built in 1898.
Growth and Buildings
The Marshall MacMahon Hotel was built around 1867. Part of this historic building is still used today. In 1877, Wallabadah was actually bigger than Quirindi, a town 15 kilometres away. However, a new train line to Quirindi slowed Wallabadah's growth.
A public school opened in Wallabadah in 1867. The school's main building dates from 1898. The Anglican Church of the Ascension was built in 1896. It had additions made in 1912. The Catholic Church was built in 1910 on the New England Highway.
Life in Wallabadah Today
Farming is the main industry in the Wallabadah area. Farmers mostly raise livestock, like beef cattle and some sheep. Today, Wallabadah has a primary school, a local pub, and one shop.
Places to Explore in Wallabadah
Wallabadah offers some interesting places to visit. These attractions share local history and nature.
The First Fleet Garden
In 2005, the First Fleet Garden was created. This special garden is a memorial to the people who came to Australia on the First Fleet ships in 1788. It is located by the banks of Quirindi Creek. A stonemason named Ray Collins carved 1,520 names onto stone tablets. These names belong to everyone who arrived on the eleven ships in 1788.
As you walk through the garden, you can read stories about these early arrivals. You can learn about their lives and their first experiences in Australia. The area around the garden has barbecue facilities, tables, and restrooms. It's a great spot for a family outing.
Whitebox Woodlands
Near the old Wallabadah Cemetery, you can find a special forest. This is one of the largest untouched whitebox woodlands left in Australia. Whitebox woodlands are unique because they have specific native trees and grasses. It's a great place to see local plants and enjoy nature.
