Nambucca Valley

The Nambucca Valley is a region located in the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Australia. The region is named after the Nambucca River which flows through it and into the Pacific Ocean. The area has a rich history spanning back thousands of years, with the traditional owners being the Gumbaynggirr people.

Gumbaynggirr People

The Gumbaynggirr people have lived in the Nambucca Valley for over 10,000 years, with archeological records indicating their presence in the region. They were known for their sustainable land management practices, where they would carefully use fire to manage the land and promote new growth.

The Gumbaynggirr people also had a complex social structure, with a clan-based system and a strict initiation process for young boys. Their spirituality was deeply connected to the natural world, with the landscape and its features holding spiritual significance.

European Settlement

The first Europeans to explore the Nambucca Valley were John Oxley and his team in 1818. However, it was not until the 1830s that European settlement began to take hold. The region was primarily used for timber getting and farming, with cedar being a valuable resource.

The town of Macksville was established in the 1860s and became the major town in the region. By the late 1800s, the Nambucca Valley had become an important dairy farming area. This industry flourished until the 1970s, but has since declined.

The Nambucca Valley Railway

In the early 1900s, the Nambucca Valley Railway was built, connecting the town of Macksville to the main north coast railway line. The railway was vital for transporting timber, dairy products, and passengers between the Nambucca Valley and other areas. The railway was closed in 1974 due to a decline in its use.

Nambucca Heads Tragedy

One of the most significant events in the history of the Nambucca Valley was the Nambucca Heads Tragedy in 1959. A small coastal trading vessel called the The Ly-ee-Moon was lost during a cyclone, with only three of the 49 passengers and crew surviving. The event had a profound impact on the community and the families of those who lost their lives.

Modern Nambucca Valley

Today, the Nambucca Valley is a popular tourist destination, known for its beaches, national parks, and the Nambucca River. The region has a vibrant arts community, and hosts the biannual Nambucca Valley Festival of Arts.

Despite the decline in dairy farming, the region continues to be an important agricultural area, with crops such as macadamias, avocados, and blueberries being grown. The region is also home to a number of small businesses and industries such as tourism, construction, and retail.

History of in Nambucca Valley

The Nambucca Valley has a rich history, from the traditional owners, the Gumbaynggirr people, to the European settlers and the modern-day community. The region's natural beauty and resources have shaped its history and continue to shape its future.