Nestled in a picturesque valley between Goulburn and Bathurst, the village of Tuena is a product of the Goldrush era. Gold was discovered here in 1851 and the town was officially named in May 1859. By 1860 the first miners’ children were offered education.
The town boasts numerous historic buildings and other remnants of the goldrush and colonial period including Parsons General Store (1860), The Book-Keeper’s Cottage (1861), The Goldfields Inn (1866), St Marks Anglican Church (1886), the Public School (1889), St Margaret’s Presbyterian Church (1890), and the Police Station (1900). Convict-built culverts still support the road between Tuena and Abercrombie Caves, and there are thousands of small mine shafts sunk along Tuena Creek towards Crookwell.
The Tuena Goldrush Festival has been held every Easter Saturday for the past 30 years, drawing crowds of around 2000 to attend features such as the street parade, country music, billy cart derby, athletic and novelty events, gold panning, sheep dog trials and shearing competitions. Gold fossicking is encouraged along Tuena Creek within the village area. Gold is also found at Mt Costigan, Junction Point, Abercrombie River and Grove Creek.
Source: Tuena: Historic Gold Mining Village (tourism pamphlet, c.2000).
Have you been to the Tuena Goldrush Festival, or enjoyed the hospitality of Tuena's historic pub? Please share your memories.
Wednesday, 28 November 2007
Tuena
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Tuena is a great little town, with a fabulous sense of community. It would make a great place to set a novel and have wonderful adventures. The people are extremely kind and welcoming, with their country charm.
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