Parkes Shire Local History
Located in the heart of New South Wales, Parkes Shire is a region steeped in rich local history, boasting a diverse cultural heritage that has helped shape the area into what it is today.
The traditional owners of the land are the Wiradjuri people who inhabited the region for over 40,000 years before the arrival of Europeans in the 1800s. They were known for their strong agricultural knowledge, engineering skills and powerful language.
European settlement in the Parkes Shire region can be traced back to the early 1800s, when explorer George Evans crossed the area during his journey across the Blue Mountains. The first official property in the area was established in 1838 by Thomas Icely, a wealthy British settler who named his property 'Coobang'.
In the years following European settlement, a number of small towns emerged in the region, each with its own unique history and culture. Some of the most notable include:
- Parkes: Established as a railway town in the late 1800s, Parkes is now known for its strong agricultural industry and iconic landmarks such as the Parkes Radio Telescope and the Henry Parkes Centre.
- Tullamore: Originally known as 'Byng', Tullamore was renamed in 1893 after a town in County Offaly, Ireland. It is now a popular destination for hunting and fishing enthusiasts.
- Bogan Gate: This small town was once a bustling railway hub, but now serves as a quiet rural outpost surrounded by beautiful bushland and farmland.
Aside from their own unique stories, these towns share a common heritage derived from the hard work and dedication of their early settlers. Many of these pioneers were farmers and graziers who struggled with harsh weather conditions, economic hardship and isolation in order to make a living.
The region has also played a significant role in the development of transportation infrastructure in New South Wales. The Parkes-to-Forbes rail line, which was constructed in the late 1800s, played a major role in supporting the growth of local agriculture and helped connect the region to other parts of the state.
In addition to agriculture and transportation, Parkes Shire has also been home to a number of significant cultural and sporting events over the years. Perhaps the most famous of these is the annual Parkes Elvis Festival, which draws tens of thousands of visitors from around the world to celebrate the life and music of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
Overall, the history of Parkes Shire is one of resilience, hard work and constant adaptation to changing times. From its traditional owners to its early European settlers, the region has been shaped by the dedication and creativity of generations of people who have made it their home. Today, it remains a vibrant and diverse region, with a rich cultural heritage that can be seen in every corner of the shire.