Located in northern New South Wales, Alstonville is located along the Bruxner Highway, which connects the towns of Lismore and Ballina. About four kilometers west of the town is the village of Wollongbar. For more information about things to do in Alstonville NSW, read on.
History of Alstonville
The Town of Alstonville NSW was originally known as Duck Creek Mountain. This impenetrable rainforest was situated between the Richmond River and the Nightcap Range. The town was named for the abundant wild duck that inhabited the area. In 1873, John Perry proposed a name change to Alstonville, derived from the name of Annie Alston. This name stuck. Today, this picturesque town is home to a rich history of local people, including a rich coffee culture.
The town celebrated the arrival of settlers in 1865. The town’s first school was opened. In recognition of their contribution, Mr. Bruce Duncan, Member for Lismore at the time, unveiled a plaque commemorating the first settlers. The town’s museum features artifacts from the town’s past. In addition, there is a museum and memorial dedicated to local heritage.
Early settlers in the area were drawn by the promise of wealth. In the 1840s, sugar cane was first cultivated in nearby towns. In 1890, the district became dominated by dairy farming. Early dairying in the area was carried out on small farms, which produced cream for butter making. The practice of processing whole milk became widespread in the region as early as 1972. Despite the early stages of development, the town remains an important service centre.
Victoria Park Nature Reserve
If you love the natural beauty of the southern hemisphere, you’ll be interested to visit the Victoria Park Nature Reserve. This protected nature reserve is located in the northern rivers region of New South Wales, eastern Australia. It lies on an undulating, high rainfall plain near the town of Alstonville. For more information, see the map below. Here are a few facts about the Victoria Park Nature Reserve:
The Victoria Park Nature Reserve is located seven kilometres south of Alstonville, on Wardell Road. From Ballina and Lismore, it’s a great day trip. The park is the last remnant of the once vast rainforest known as the Big Scrub. It was once estimated to cover 73,000 hectares. A short boardwalk winds through the rainforest, and there are accessible picnic areas. The reserve is open all year, but does close if there is a risk of bushfire.
In addition to bushy trees, the park is also home to some unique plant species. The Reserve is home to two species of baloghia, a shrub with macadamia-like fruits that are only found in the Mount Warning volcanic shield. In addition to this, the park is home to a regeneration program by the Richmond River Naturalists’ Club and NPWS. You’ll be able to see and hear rainforest pigeons, land mullets, and countless other species.
Amaze ‘n’ Place
If you’re looking for an adventure park in Alstonville, NSW, you’ll want to check out Amaze ‘n’ Place. This amusement park is home to the world’s largest maze – a 9,000 tree-lined maze. The attraction is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers.
Crawford House Museum
The Crawford House Museum in Alstonville, NSW is the first farm house museum in the Northern NSW region. This small museum houses household items from 1900 to 1960. Entry tickets cost $15, and you can visit the museum on Fridays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm. To book an appointment, call Lois on 0427 457 879 or email her at [email protected].
The town was established in January 1873 and its post office was originally a store in a local settlement. The town’s fertile volcanic soils were ideal for farming, with sugar cane, arrowroot, and peanuts the most important crops in the early days. Later, tropical fruits were planted, and most farmers maintained a dairy herd. The town is also famous for its macadamia plantations. Today, the town is home to Summerland Farm, a macadamia plantation that employs more than 100 locals.
St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church
St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church is located at 6 The Avenue. You can contact the church using the information provided above. If you need to contact the church by phone, you can use the address or phone number below. To visit the church in person, head to 6 The Avenue.
Located in Prospect, the former Anglican church was built between 1838 and 1840. The structure was designed by Henry Robertson and built by James Atkinson. It was later added to the State Heritage Register, demonstrating its importance in demonstrating the creative achievements and cultural history of New South Wales. Visit St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church and Cemetery to learn more about the architecture and history of the area.
Summerland Farm – Aruma
Aruma has engaged Woollam Constructions to undertake a construction-only contract for renovations at Summerland Farm, a macadamia and avocado farm in Alstonville, NSW. The farm is committed to providing employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Located in Alstonville, Summerland Farm offers a range of activities for the whole family, fresh produce, and breathtaking views of the Ballina-Byron Hinterland. The team successfully completed the project within budget and on time.
The farm is set on the site of a former volcano, which later formed a caldera. The ash from the crater has a rich volcanic soil and is home to a variety of amazing plant species. The area was also the birthplace of the Macadamia nut, which is another popular produce grown at Summerland Farm. It is run by retired farm labourer Benny Muldoon, who is a Marist Brother.
Guests can visit the farm to see how macadamias are produced. The farm has been raising funds since 1985 and is located just 3 minutes’ drive from Alstonville. While the farm itself is not a tourist attraction, it has plenty to offer. Visitors can enjoy the adventure playground and water park and can even have an animal encounter. A wristband is required to gain entry.
Best Restaurants in Alstonville
You can dine at the Wollongbar Tavern, which offers a relaxed and modern environment, and excellent meals and drinks. The menu at Federal Hotel features is pub fare. No matter what your taste is, you’re sure to find something delicious here.
10 Interesting facts about Alstonville
- Alstonville is a small town in New South Wales, Australia, located in the Northern Rivers region.
- The town is located in the Tweed Shire and has a population of about 5,000.
- Alstonville is known for its rich cultural history, with Indigenous Australian and European influences.
- The town is located near the World Heritage-listed Wollumbin National Park, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including many endangered species.
- Alstonville is home to the Alstonville Plateau Country Club, which has a 18-hole golf course and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar.
- The town is also home to the Alstonville Cultural Centre, which is a venue for events, exhibitions, and workshops.
- Alstonville is known for its agricultural industry, with many local farmers growing avocados, macadamia nuts, and other crops.
- The town is home to the Alstonville Show, an annual event that celebrates the local community and features livestock competitions, carnival rides, and other attractions.
- Alstonville is located near the Ballina–Byron Gateway Airport, which serves the Northern Rivers region and is a popular destination for domestic and international travelers.
- The town is also located near the Richmond River, which is popular for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.