Bingara
Bingara offers a perfect balance of peace and tranquility while boasting an energetic and vibrant community. There’s always something happening; how much you choose to do is up to you, take life by the reins and explore all this hidden gem has to offer, or sit back and just go with the flow.
Bingara, known as the “Gem on the Gwydir”, is a great place to visit and an even better place to live. Safe and friendly, Bingara has clean air, clear skies and a great climate.
Surrounded by rolling hills, the town rests in a natural amphitheatre. The spectacular Gwydir River is the life blood of the town, and its beauty is indeed priceless.
History
Bingara started life as a river crossing for teamsters travelling north, however it wasn’t until the 1880s when prospectors flocked to the area following the discovery of tin, then diamonds, that the town flourished, and rapid development followed.
Bingara became a municipality in 1890 and at its peak, the main street alone boasted five general stores, six hotels, and all the services required to maintain a largely self-sufficient town.
World economic recession and the end of mining saw the town contract, leaving a heritage of beautiful commercial and public architecture, and the now fully restored Roxy Theatre.
Top things to do
Bingara may be a small town by city standards, but there is no shortage of things to see and do, and it need not cost any money.
1. Fossicking
The Bingara district is a fossickers paradise.
Whichever road you take out of town you will find a spot to fossick for gold, gems and
crystals. It was the discovery of gold in 1852 that brought a flow of prospectors to the
district and it continues to this day.
2. ENTERTAINMENT
Living in a country town does not mean that
you have to live in a cultural void. On the
contrary, residents of the Bingara district are privileged to have the arts firmly embroiled in their everyday lives. Art shows, cultural events and live theatre are the norm for the children of Bingara.
3. BUSH ACTIVITIES
The picturesque river and mountains surrounding Bingara make it the ideal destination to discover the magic of the bush. You see it, you touch it, you live it. Whether you discover it by car or on foot all you need to do is look around and up, to experience the same as our ancestors.
4. Recreation
There is no excuse for inactivity in Bingara, because the town has something for everyone. Whether you like to take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the banks of the Gwydir River, throw in a fishing line, take a dip in the local swimming pool or prefer a more arduous climb up to Batterham Lookout, the choice is yours.
5. EXPLORING
Using Bingara as a base, there are many delightful half and full-day drives which will take you into the hills, valleys and beyond. Whether your interest lies in geographical wonders unique to this area, or historical steps back in time, or whether you simply want a relaxing day out, we have it right here on our doorstep.
