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ALBURY-WODONGA
Introduction
Albury– Wodonga was
once touted as a possible federal capital and the ambience imbued by the
city’s architecture is a reflection of these grand plans.
For thousands of years, the Murray River has been a vital source of
nourishment for the land that surrounds it and has played a significant
part in the history of Australia’s people.
Today the rural city and the towns of the Murray River offer much to
entice the traveller with many points of historical and cultural interest
as well as a host of water-related activities.
It was along this section of the Murray that the first recorded crossings
of the river by Europeans took place — Hume and Hovell at Albury in 1824
and Major Mitchell at Howlong in 1836.
Attractions
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Near the
Hovell Tree are the berthing facilities for the paddlesteamer, PS
Cumberoona. Come see the magnificent replica of the original
vessel.
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At Hovell
Tree Park in Albury you can visit the still living tree where
William Hovell carved his name in 1824
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In 1893
Corowa, now known as the ‘Birthplace of Federation’,
saw the conference that lead to the people’s movement for the
Federation of the States. You can trace the full history of the
federation movement at Corowa’s Federation Museum.
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The Albury
Railway Station, which was completed in 1882 and remains one
of the most significant country stations in Australia. A faithful
restoration in 1992-95 means that visitors will find it easy to
believe that they have been transported back in time by a hundred
years or so.
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You can
also relive the pioneering past at Jindera by calling at Wagner’s
Store, the centrepiece of the award-winning Jindera
Pioneer Museum. The store was in continuous operation from
1874 until 1958 — it saw little change in all those years of trading
and has been left virtually untouched since its closure as a store.
The museum also exhibits some Aboriginal artefacts.
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A
significant part of Australia’s migrant history is preserved at the Albury
Regional Museum in the Bonegilla Collection. The Bonegilla
Migrant Reception Centre near Wodonga operated from 1947 to 1971 and
saw over 320,000 people make a new start in this country.
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Art lovers
should make a point of visiting the Albury Regional Art
Gallery, which houses a significant permanent collection of
works by Sir Russell Drysdale. For a more lasting reminder of your
stay, there are many commercial galleries where you can buy original
fine art and craft wares.
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See the Railway
Bridge which was built in England. This magnificent old bridge was
built in Stoke on Trent, England and shipped to Australia at a cast of
28,000 pounds. When erected the 600 foot iron lattice structure, was
supported by 6 iron cylinders filled with concrete, and tested by two,
four then six steam engines standing still and then at speed. It was
used for the first time on Tuesday October 14, 1884 by a train from
Melbourne.
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One of
Wodonga's first residences Stonleigh Cottage. This quaint
little cottage is one of Wodonga's first residences, built in the
early 1800's, was originally a cobbler's shop. An interesting point is
that the walls of this building are some 18 inches thick. Stonleigh is
presently a fresh & dried flower outlet and you are most welcome
to come and browse through the shop
Activities
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In spring through to autumn you can board the
magnificent replica of the paddlesteamer, Cumberoona.
And take a cruise down the mighty Murray River as you learn of the
days when the river was a major trading route.
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Walk
Wodonga's well maintained Parks & Gardens
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The Sport
& Leisure Centre activities for all ages.
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