Temora’s main street. Photo: Denisbin.
When many people think of Temora, the first thing that comes into mind is the town’s popular air show. But there’s plenty more to the Riverina town in the heart of the NSW agricultural belt that sprung up during the Gold Rush and eventually became a rail centre in a prosperous sheep and wheat district. While its aviation museum is internationally acclaimed, Temora offers museums, a bustling CBD and all the natural beauty you could want, along with a fabulous dose of excellent country hospitality.
Why you’ll love it
If flying is your thing, Temora is the place to go. Don’t miss the Temora Aviation Museum, dedicated to the aircraft and pilots who defended Australia. You’ll find an extensive collection of war aircraft, including Spitfires and the oldest flying Tiger Moth in the country. As well as exhibition buildings and display spaces, there’s a playground for kids and a spot to have a picnic.
The museum’s air shows are legendary and happen several times a year. The aircraft from the museum put on a thrilling show with entertainment that will appeal to just about everyone.
The Temora Rural Museum is an interesting way to while away some time taking in historical Australian treasures, and the exhibitions change regularly. Plus the museum is home to gems like NSW’s only Ambulance Museum, and cricket legend Don Bradman’s first home.
You’ll find beautifully maintained streetscapes and parks to explore, with some fine examples of Edwardian and Federation architecture. The Visitor Information Centre has a brochure to guide you if you’d like to take a stroll through the streets.
If you’re into churches, De Boos Street has one of the most impressive concentrations of churches to be found anywhere in rural Australia, including St Paul’s Anglican Church built in 1906 and the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church which has beautiful ornate stained glass windows. Many of the houses on the elegant, tree-lined street go back to the late 19th century.
Lake Centenary is a popular venue for water skiing, swimming, sailing, paddle-boating and fishing. The grassy banks and free gas barbecues provide the ideal spot for a family picnic or to watch the V8 jet boats in action. You can walk or cycle from town along the picturesque pathway.
If trains are more your thing than planes, head to the Temora Railway Museum. The buildings date back to 1892, and there is a Railyard Walk which has some interesting exhibits including uniforms, photos and a state to Boofhead the fox terrier who was renowned for riding trains far and wide around the region.
If you have some time to spare, take a drive to Barmedman Mineral Pool. It’s on a four-hectare reserve and is said to have healing properties because of the pool’s high mineral content. It’s less than half an hour from Temora.
Getting there
Travel via the Barton Highway and Hume Highway past Yass, then not far out of Yass turn right into Burley Griffin Way, which will take you all the way to Temora.
When to go
Check out the Events listings and time your visit to coincide with your interests. There are plenty to choose from.
Key details
- Duration: 2 ½ hours
- Distance from Canberra: 200 km
- Recommended for: anyone with an interest in flying, historic Australian treasures, museums, architecture and exploring beautifully maintained parks and pathways by bike or on foot.
- More information: Temora Tourism
Have you been to Temora? What’s your favourite thing to enjoy there?
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