Goulburn is a good vacation spot when staying in the Southern Highlands of Australia
Goulburn is Australia’s oldest inland city and was the first to be settled. This city is bursting with history which is waiting to be seen. As one of the largest cities with a population of 24,000 it also serves as the rural gateway for the areas agriculture. The city is host to many that wish to tour the Southern Highlands.
Many travellers will utilize the Hume Highway which connects Sydney with Canberra and Melbourne. To drive to Goulburn from Sydney it will take approximately two and half hours. If you are coming from Canberra it is approximately one hour.
The railway which has been in operation since 1869 is still a vital part of Goulburn history. At one time this stop was the southern most destination for the railway system and that status was held for about six years. Now you will find Countrylink system which provides daily service to Goulburn from Sydney. If you wish to travel on the Countrylink system advance reservations are recommended.
The local climate is not like that of other cities in the area. This city sits at the bottom of a valley which makes the weather a little more varied than in other parts of Australia. The summer temperature is anywhere from 10-40C (50-104F) and -5 – 18C (23-64F) in the winter. Because it sits in the valley it can get very windy and cold so dressing in layers is advised.
When visiting Goulburn one must visit the most famous tourist attraction know as the Big Merino. This concrete attraction measures 15m (49ft) tall and represents the towns significance to the local farming industry. Australia’s most common sheep breed is the Merino which is the reason for the representation in this obvious display of sheep farming. The building is host to not only a lookout point but also houses a gift shop. The lookout is currently closed for safety reasons.
The local parks include Victoria Park and Belmore Park. Home to a beautiful rose garden in the centre of the park, Victoria Park also houses a recreational children’s area. Many of Goulburn’s community events including the county fair are held at Belmore park. Belmore park is located on the North side of main street, Auburn street.
When visiting there are a few other attractions that may be of interest. The Goulburn War Memorial which was built on Rocky Hill in 1924 is set to honor the memory of those that lost their lives in World War 1. Even if you find the museum is closed it is worth the trip over there as you have a spectacular view of the city from that location. Outside the information centre you will find a host of sculptures set to pay tribute the many of the Australian Blues Musicians. Some of the other sites to visit may be St. Saviour’s Cathedral, Goulburn Court House, antique ships and the historic Waterworks Museum.
In mid February you can be entertained at the Australian Blues Music Festival which is one of the town highlights. In early October allow yourself to stroll the streets during the Lilac Festival. There you will find markets, floral displays and parades.
If you are on the search for some nice walking trails away from town head to Morton National Park. As you find your way through park you will discover in the upper area of the park Shoalhaven River as it makes its way to Nowra. Also worth the visit is Wombeyan Caves. These caves are accessed through the nearby town of Taralga. You can tour Wombeyan Caves via two wheel drive however, the roads are of poor quality. You are certainly to be please however, if you choose to make the trek there.
Looking for a taste of the local beer, meander your way to the Goulburn Brewery. Your choice of eateries will vary from a steakhouse to a variety of fast food chains. Let your appetite be your guide. Don’t be afraid to try new things. After all this region is a getaway filled with adventure.
As you enter town from the highway out of Sydney there is an array of Goulburn motel accommodations. Where you stay can vary from a motor inn to a bunkhouse on a local sheep farm. The latter of these stays will often include an opportunity to do some sheep shearing. Cost for accommodations will vary as much as the location.
There is something for everyone here. Whether you are planning a trip for the outdoors enthusiast or the antique shopper, even the beer critic you are bound to find something pleasing to all travel appetites. With the beautiful countryside adventures, abounding blues music and local historic attractions, this will be a vacation that will surely inspire others to visit Goulburn.
