Enjoyed a wonderful experience, visiting the historic town of Grenfell.

 

 

Grenfell’s history is so evident as you stroll down the main street and visit some of its old buildings and spend time talking to local character’s, some who have spent a lifetime living in Grenfell. The town came into being as a result of gold being found back in 1866. A highlight was to visit O’Briens Hill and take a walk through the old gold diggings and shaft where so much gold was found and view the remnant mining machinery.

We camped at the local Grenfell caravan park which we found to be very clean and conveniently located within walking distance into town and to numerous points of interest viz. the magnificent aquatic centre, Company Dam, the Silos, Historic Railway station, the Chrysler Car Museum, Visitor Information centre and so much more. Found Clare at the Visitors centre to be extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

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The legends of historic Grenfell include the notorious Bush ranger Ben Hall, writer and poet Henry Lawson, cricketing great Stan McCabe and tennis champion Jan Lehane. Their photos are well positioned in the heart of town.

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One can only imagine the work that was required to paint the mural / silo art work that would be reflective of this farming community across the Weddin Shire that includes some of its native bird life, all from original photos taken in the area. Mongolian born, Melbourne street artist Heesco took 5 weeks during 2019 to complete this magnificent work of Silo art. 

Reportedly, the artwork used 180 litres of bulk paint and 800 spray cans.                               (Click on images to enlarge)

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A sad reminder of this once rich town is the closure of many of the buildings. Above are just a couple of pics of two hotels closed. Fortunately the Exchange still gets a bit of minor use from special events but no longer operates as a hotel as it did in the past.

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One Hotel still operating in the main street is the Grenfell Royal Hotel. Here are some pics of Jack, its resident caretaker out back in his garden setting, reflective of Grenfell’s past and another pic of his pet ‘Blue Tongue’ lizard.

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Another ‘Must see’ is Bell Hall’s cave in the Weddin National Park. There are some beautiful walks throughout this area with majestic panorama views. Camping and free BBQ’s are available in the Weddin National Park.

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Discovering the Grenfell bird life in their natural habitat

Thanks to Charles Dove for his assistance in correctly naming the various bird life that I was able to photograph on the various Grenfell Bird Trails in particular around the ‘Company Dam’.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Below: The Trip Home from Grenfell to Mollymook

 

Following  a wonderful stay in Grenfell, driving in a 100 km speed zone heading toward Bungendore and the springs on the Cub camper trailer snap on the left hand side. With traffic approaching and following all at 100 km / hour on this bend in the road with unbroken lines it was a frightening experience. A couple who witnessed the accident immediately came to my aid and began signalling the traffic on either side to slow down / stop. The police officer arrived approx 1/2 hour later and took over the traffic control with the assistance of a local SES volunteer whilst we waited another 1/2 hour for a tow truck to arrive.

There were no deaths nor injuries, so much to be thankful for.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Ken B., Mollymook Beach Waterfront: Editor for Mollymook News and Destination Mollymook Milton Ulladulla