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Home to outlaws Fred Ward and Ned Kelly
(1860's), Armidale (population 19,485) is located in northern New South
Wales. Long before its western settlers,
the Aniwan people were the traditional inhabitants of the area encompassing the
site of Armidale. It's first colonial
settlers came to the area in the 1830's, after the primary exploration of the
land by John Oxley. It's name comes from
the town of Armadale in the Isle of Skye, Scotland. After reccomendations by the explorer John
Oxley, many settlers began using the land as grazing grounds and farms. Around 1848, a town was established to
provide a market for the local farm production.
Later, as with many Australian towns and cities, the gold rush ensued--
stretching the city rapidly in the 1850's.
Known as a place of many waterfalls, Armidale place to discover the natural
beauty of Australia. Follow the
Waterfall Way (State Highway 78), and relax upon this uniquely scenic route. Passing through New South Wales' most
beautiful countryside, it is ranked Australia's third most beautiful tourist
drive. About 1km south of Waterfall Way
are the famous Wollomombi Falls. The
third tallest waterfalls in all of Australia, Wollomombi Falls holds a few
hiking trails that wind down to the bottom of the falls. Make your way to Edgar's Lookout, which
provides an excellent view of the gorge.
If you get comfortable enough, camp and fireplace sites are available
for overnight stays. In Armidale, the
nature is overwhelmingly beautiful, and will provide a great experience for the
whole family to share!
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