Bellingen Local History
Bellingen is a historic town located in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales, Australia. The town is situated on the banks of Bellinger River, surrounded by picturesque forests and valleys. The town has a rich local history that dates back to the early 19th century.
The region of Bellingen was originally inhabited by the Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people who had a deep connection with the land and the rivers. The Gumbaynggirr people used the Bellinger River for fishing and hunting and relied on the rich biodiversity of the forests for their livelihoods.
The first non-indigenous settlement in the region was established in the 1840s when Europeans began to explore the hinterland and establish pastoral runs. The first European town in the region was Raleigh, which was founded in the 1860s. The town was supported by shipbuilding as well as sugar cane and timber industries.
The town of Bellingen was established in the late 1800s, and the railroad arrived in 1915, which enabled the town to grow and flourish. The town saw significant population growth in the 1920s and 1930s, which saw the establishment of a number of local businesses and services.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Bellingen became a hub for alternative culture, attracting artists, writers, and musicians from around Australia. The town also became well-known for its organic agriculture, with many local farmers adopting sustainable and organic farming practices.
Today, Bellingen is a thriving town with a vibrant community and a strong local economy. The town has a number of historic buildings, including the Hammond and Wheatley Building, which was built in the early 1900s and is now home to a community gallery.
Bellingen is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around Australia and the world. Visitors can explore the local forests and waterways, go bushwalking, birdwatching, or take part in kayaking or canoeing trips. The town is also home to a number of cultural events and festivals, including the Bellingen Jazz Festival and the Bellingen Readers and Writers Festival.
Overall, the local history of the region of Bellingen is a rich and fascinating story that reflects the diversity and resilience of the local community. From the deep connection of the Gumbaynggirr people to the arrival of Europeans, the growth of the town in the early 20th century, and the alternative culture and organic agriculture of more recent times, the history of Bellingen is a testament to the enduring spirit of this beautiful region of Australia.