Tumbarumba

The town of Tumbarumba was established in the1850's and gold discoveries here and at Kiandra led to an influx of population which in the mid 1860's made Tumbarumba a town of considerable importance. Many people stayed to select land which was available and suitable for agriculture. Gold mining assisted the beginning of the timber industry. As the gold became more difficult to obtain it was necessary to use fluming to bring water for sluicing. Timber was also used for pit props in the deep-lead tunnels that developed around the turn of the century.

Tumbarumba had a thriving commercial centre by 1900 with around eight licensed premises and a number of general stores. A brewery and a flour mill were in operation and by 1906 a newspaper was established. The importance of the town declined after World War 1, which saw the death of the cream of a generation of young men.

The advent of the Wagga -Tumbarumba railway line in 1921 did much to service the timber industry had the effect of encouraging greater commerce with Wagga.

In 1927 a prison farm was established at Mannus, and softwood planting had commenced by the early 1930's.

The construction of the Snowy Mountains Scheme led to a dramatic increase in the population of the town in the 1960's. It was at this time that a High School was established and a major expansion occurred at Tumbarumba Hospital. Paradoxically, it was at the conclusion of this stage that the commerce of the town reached its lowest ebb. Improved facilities in Corryong and Tumut, a rural recession, the availability of the motor car and improved roads led to the closure of many shops and facilities in Tumbarumba.

This trend has been dramatically reversed in the 1970's with the commencement of production of pine sawn timber, a new rural resurgence, and a growing recognition of the aesthetic appeal of Tumbarumba as a place to live.

The town offers arrange of accommodation, attractions and places to eat.

Don't miss:

Artists on Parade Gallery

Nest Cinema Café

4 Bears Café

Elms Restaurant

The Tumbarumba Museum

The hotels and clubs

The Creekscape walk and the Bicenntenial gardens.