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Goulburn was founded in the early 1800′s and soon became Australia’s first settled city. Now with a population of 24,000 it is one of the largest cities also. Goulburn serves as the hub for the local agriculture.
Many travelers 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.
In operation since 1869 the railway line is still in use in. The railway offers travelers an opportunity to have a picturesque ride through the Southern Highlands. There runs a daily train service from Sydney to Goulburn on the way to Melbourne and Canberra. This service is provided by Countrylink and travel on this system should be reserved in advance.
When traveling to the city be sure to dress in layers. The Climate is unlike most of the nearby towns as it sits in the bottom of a valley. The temperature in the summer is 10-40 degrees C (50-104F) and -5-18 degrees C (23-64F) in the winter. It can get very windy and cold so be prepared for these conditions.
If well known tourist attractions are what you are looking for then don’t pass by the Big Merino. This 15m (49ft) tall concrete sheep represents the towns significance to the local farming industry. Merino is Australia’s most common sheep breed. This concrete structure houses a gift shop and a lookout point at the top. Currently the lookout is closed for safety reasons.
Two most utilized parks in town are Victoria Park and Belmore Park. With a beautiful rose garden located in the center of it, Victoria Park has something for the floral enthusiast as well as a recreational area for the children to play. You will find many of the town’s community events being hosted at Belmore Park. Belmore is the setting for the county fair and is located on the north side of main street, Auburn street. While staying in Goulburn there are plenty other Goulburn attractions to visit.
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.
A couple of the towns highlight events include the Australian Blues Music Festival and the Lilac Festival. The Australian Blues Music Festival is generally around the second week of February and the Lilac Festival in early October. The Lilac Festival is host to markets, floral displays and parades.
Step out away from town a little and head to Morton National Park. This park offers breathtaking walking trails and a chance to get away from the busy city streets. If you are feeling a little more adventurous make your way to Wombeyan Caves. Although these caves can be accessed with a two wheel drive, the trek will be a little more bumpy as the roads are not quality. Choosing to brave the roads will not disappoint you as the caves present amazing photographic opportunities.
Goulburn brewery will allow you to chance to purchase some of the local beer while you see some of Goulburns fascinating architecture. There are a variety of food and drink choices that one can make while here. Anything from the local steakhouse to fast food chains. Let your appetite be your guide.
If you are entering Goulburn from the highway out of Sydney you will find an array of Goulburn motels. Prices vary depending on location and time of year. You can get a room as low as $45 a person if you want to room in a bunkhouse. In some instances these accommodations on the local farms are accompanied with sheep shearing also.
Goulburn is sure to offer something to everyone. Visiting the Southern Highlands of Australia will likely leave you wanting more and scurrying to make arrangements to return for another stay. Australia is known for it’s picturesque countrysides and adventures, whether it be hiking, visiting the local tourist attractions or spending some time on a local farm you are sure to have a vacation that you will want to share with everyone.
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