Abandoned Farmhouse on Coonamble Rd

Walgett NSW 2832 (Pop 2 100)

Pic: by Jim Fisher 

Walgett is located in NW NSW 696 km n-w of Sydney and is known as the 'Gateway to the Opal Fields' being on the road to Lightning Ridge (76 km north). Walgett means ‘the meeting of two waters’ and is situated at the junction of the Barwon and Namoi rivers. Original inhabitants were the Kamilaroi Aborigines and there are still quite a large number of indigenous people in the area. White squatter settlement began in 1839 and the railway arrived in 1908. Today Walgett is essentially a railhead and important service town surrounded by rich agricultural lands. Main industries are wool, cattle, lambs and wheat. Fishing is also excellent here. Walgett Rodeo (Aug), Wool Festival (Oct).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
Hot Artesian Springs, Montekeila St relaxing and therapeutic baths. Norman ‘Tracker’ Walford Track, Warrena St 1.5 km scenic walk which includes the first settler’s grave on the Namoi River.

Nearby:
Opal Fields (70 km n-w) comprise the Grawin, Glengarry and Sheepyard Opal Fields. Good fossicking here but take sufficient water supplies. Narran Lake (96 km west) one of Australia’s largest inland lakes with an abundance of animal and birdlife. As this is private property, contact Walgett Shire Council Tel. (02) 6828-1399 to arrange access. Come-by-Chance (65 km s-e) scenic riverside town with an interesting history, bushwalks and prolific wildlife.  

Accommodation:
Walgett has 3 motels, 2 hotels, a B&B and a caravan park. Visitor Information Centre: 88 Fox St. Tel (02) 6828 6139.

Other Emergency Services:
Police Tel (02) 6828 6899.

Airport:
Walgett Aerodrome (WGE) just off Walgett Pilliga Rd (1.3 km s-e of CBD).

Hospital:

Walgett Health Service, 141 Fox St. Tel (02) 6828 1066 or (02) 6828 6000.