Historic Bowraville

 

BOWRAVILLE – (population 1500) is a heritage town in the centre of the Nambucca Valley Shire. Known as ‘the Verandah Post Town’, many of the shops in High Street have overhanging verandas. Originally called ‘Bowra’, the town’s name was changed to avoid confusion with Nowra and Bowral.

Bowraville is a town of contrast with a main street lined with verandah-shaded footpaths, museums, art galleries and a treasure trove of Aboriginal art and culture. It is beautifully situated within attractive farmland and mountain rainforests.

5 November 2011 Bowraville is the Winner of the Cultural Heritage Award and came third overall in the Tidy Towns Award! Congratulations to all the great people who make and keep our historic Bowraville look inviting and beautiful!

Keep Australia Beautiful - Tidy Towns Website: http://www.kabnsw.org.au/programs/TidyTowns.aspx

The Frank Partridge VC Military Museum is housed in the historic former council chambers. Its large and extensive collection of military memorabilia covers all conflicts that  Australian forces participated in. The museum is open Mon–Fri 10 am–3 pm, Sat 10 am–12 noon or by appointment. Ph. 6564 7056.

The Bowraville Folk Museum is recognised as one of the best of its type in NSW – a must visit! Hundreds of items used in the district in bygone days are on display. Ph. 6564 8200.

Nambucca Valley Phoenix – ‘The Bank’ Gallery, craft studios and tea rooms feature a unique range of quality pottery, art, craft, glass art and souvenirs. Enjoy a light meal, devonshire tea or some delightful light refreshments. Ph. 6564 7677.

The restored Bowraville Theatre is a unique attraction and community focal point for social activities. Ph.  6564 7808.

The Bowra Hotel is a magnificent hotel (built 1912) being restored to its former glory. It’s a great place to stop for a cool drink, enjoy a wonderful bistro meal, or stay overnight. Fabulous views of the surrounding countryside can be enjoyed from the 12-foot wide upstairs verandahs. Ph. 6564 7041.

Mad Hatters Tea Garden & Bowra Post & Collectables - Enjoy a scrumptious meal or an exquisite cup of coffee in this relaxing, quiet, leafy atmosphere. The adjoining shop has many beautiful souvenirs and collectables and you will sure take a pleasant memory home! Phone 6564 7631

Bowraville Races – The Nambucca River Jockey Club conducts regular race meetings at this picturesque racecourse – it’s a picnic day to remember with full betting facilities. The racecourse is at the northern end of the town on the Macksville/Nambucca Heads Road.

Dunggir National Park is 20 km southwest of Bowraville.

Horseshoe Drive is best tackled in a 4WD. This spectacular drive takes you through national parks and state forests of the Great Dividing Range. Don’t miss the superb views from Killiecrankie Lookout.