There are several things to see and do in Yass NSW. We’ve included Tootsie, Cooma Cottage, and the Railway Museum. These attractions provide an interesting overview of the town’s history. But if you really want to make a lasting impression, visit the History of Yass. And if you love railways, you might also like the Yass Railway Museum. Listed below are some of the most popular things to see and do in Yass NSW.
History of Yass
The history of Yass is as interesting. From famous bushrangers to beautiful streetscapes and colonial buildings, the town’s history is as intriguing as its heritage. Read on to discover more about Yass’s rich past. Here are a few facts about the area’s past. Also, don’t miss out on some great attractions. Here are a few fun facts about the town’s history.
The area surrounding Yass was home to a large Aboriginal population, the Ngunnawal people. This group spoke the Wiradjuri language. The first Europeans to settle in Yass were Hamilton Hume and William Hovell in 1821. In the late 1820s, settlers began bringing flocks of sheep to the area and developing the wool industry. By 1825, the region was connected to Goulburn by a bush track.
The first building was built by A.B. “Banjo” Paterson, who moved to the district from the city of Sydney as a child. He later purchased property in Yass and eventually settled there himself. Another prominent early resident was Patrick Hartigan, a priest and poet who spent part of his childhood in a nearby village. His book of poems, ‘The Old Man and the Sea’, was published in 1858 and has been read by many.
Tootsie
When you’re on a road trip in the state of New South Wales, you may want to stop in at Tootsie for some local art. This charming art gallery is located in the small town of Yass, and is a great place to browse local artwork. There are also many unique local events and attractions to check out, like the annual Kim Volley memorial sculpture fundraiser. Fundraising efforts are used to purchase art pieces that will be installed at Cooma Cottage, as well as providing cash awards to promising young artists from Yas High School.
One place that isn’t to be missed is the Tootsie Gallery and Cafe, a bright, colorful space that is also a cozy cafe. The Tootsie Gallery and Cafe is owned and operated by mosaic artist Cayla Pothan. The cafe and gallery promote sustainability and an eco-friendly lifestyle. In fact, Tootsie doesn’t even serve sandwiches or other pre-made items. Instead, they prepare a small number of fresh cakes each day.
Cooma Cottage
In the 1820s, a man named Hamilton Hume discovered the area where Cooma Cottage is located and fell in love with it. He purchased it and 100 acres in 1839 for L600 and renovated the cottage, adding Palladian style wings and a Greek Revival portico. He lived in the house until his death, at which time the house became a National Trust property. He also built the cottage itself.
In addition to hosting many events, Cooma Cottage is home to a traveling exhibition that features the works of students in NSW from year five to nine. This exhibition is filled with 19 original works of art that highlight the varying perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in Australia. The location also serves as a popular stop for the Yass Winter Fair, which brings together a variety of local stalls and a Clydesdale.
The gardens at Cooma Cottage are expansive and perfect for events. There are a range of activities and events that can be held in the garden, and it is possible to hire the property for such events. A volunteer committee works hard to keep the property open, from serving in the gift shop to providing guided tours. And they also maintain the gardens and grounds. And you can join them and see the real Cooma Cottage in Yass!
Yass Railway Museum
The history of the railway is reflected in the railway museum, which was built in 1891. The museum displays a variety of railway memorabilia, including a 19th century steam locomotive, the shortest platform in NSW, and the station master’s residence. You can also explore the museum’s model railway and black 1307 Steam locomotive, which was a mainstay of the state’s railway system for 95 years. The museum is run by volunteers and is open to the public.
The town of Yass was first surveyed in 1834. Throughout its history, there have been several notable residents, including Hamilton Hume and Banjo Patterson. You can also visit the Yass & District Historical Museum and Yass Railway Heritage Centre. There’s also a popular outdoor market, which offers delicious treats made with local ingredients. Yass is a popular destination for family outings and weekend getaways. Visitors can mix country life with city living by exploring the many historical sites and museums in the area. The Yass Railway Museum is a popular family attraction.
Yass Soldiers’ Memorial Hall
If you haven’t yet visited Yass Soldiers’ Memorial Hall, you should. The hall was built in 1923, less than two years after the town was established. The hall includes rooms for the Returned Servicemen’s club, the municipal library, projection room for movies and council offices. It has long been the centre of community life. In fact, the hall was constructed for just PS10,000, so you can’t go wrong.
The town’s historical past goes back to the 19th century, when Hamilton Hume first discovered it. European settlers began arriving in the early 1830s, and it was considered a possible National Capital. This charming town is home to many quaint Victorian-era buildings, including a verandah post pub. Tourists from the Canberra area and the Hume Highway visit the town for the Yass Arts-and-Crafts Festival, as well as other events throughout the year.
If you’re a wine lover, Yass might be the town for you. The area is rich in vineyards, and many hobby farms have sprung up, as people commuted from Canberra. Today, Yass remains a popular country town. In 1837, a building known as the Yass Court House was built on a site where the town was settled.
Banjo Paterson Park
The scenic, beautiful town of Yass is a popular stopover between Sydney and Melbourne, just a three-hour drive from the city. A former centre of sheep related industry, Yass has a charming main street flanked by elegant buildings and a clock tower. You can dine at local favourites such as Trader & Co. or grab a coffee from local social enterprise, Six8 Coffee Roasters.
If you’re staying in the town, be sure to visit Banjo Patterson Park, the town’s only park. This small park is named after the famous Australian poet Banjo Paterson and is shaded and close to the town’s amenities. You can enjoy picnicking, horseback riding, and a number of other outdoor activities while visiting Banjo Paterson Park. There are also plenty of other activities to keep you busy in Yass.
You can go platypus-spotting in nearby Robertson, where you can see the 500kg BIG Platypus ‘Queany’ monument. You can also browse the largest nursery in the Central Coast of NSW, the Big Flower, which has a giant ‘Big Flower’ sign to attract visitors. The nursery sells plants, pots, and gifts. It is the ideal place to spend a day with your family.
Yass Courthouse
Just a short drive south-west of Sydney, Yass is situated in the Southern Tablelands. Once a thriving hub for sheep-related industry, the town still retains the charm of a bygone era. Its charming buildings and clock tower reflect this prosperous past and flank the main street. While you’re here, be sure to grab a bite to eat at Trader & Co. Or try a cup of java at Six8 Coffee Roasters.
Old Linton was a thriving community when the railway bridge was built in 1862. The town was originally occupied by settlers. During the late 1700s, a bark hut served as the town’s courthouse and gaol. Major Thomas Mitchell passed through the town in 1836 and saw the first brick courthouse. A year later, in 1837, Yass’ population grew to 5,000. Around 1830, the first town survey and allotment sale were held.
If you want to explore the history of the town, visit Yass Courthouse. It’s a historic building which dates back to the colonial era. The courthouse’s exterior was refurbished in the early 1900s after a fire destroyed the old building. Its interior is furnished with period furnishings and antiques. Its location is centrally-located, and visitors can easily navigate the town’s winding streets without too much difficulty.
Riverbank Park
There are many recreational activities that can be enjoyed at Riverbank Park in Yass. The park is well-located near the town centre and features riverside walks, bbq facilities, multiple shelters, walking trails, and a drinking fountain. It is also home to the Yass Valley Information Centre, which is the perfect resting spot after a busy day of exploring the area. One of the most notable features of the park is the Liberty Swing, which provides the thrill of swinging to those with disabilities. The Liberty Swing was made possible by a community grant of $25,000 from Southern Phone and installed by Variety NSW, Valmar Support Services, and Mr Keith Rosario. The Yass Valley Council is also very proud of the park’s inclusion of the Liberty Swing.
Another interesting feature of this park is the Aboriginal murals and early bridge arches. This is an excellent place to visit if you have a family, as there is a peaceful atmosphere and picnic tables. Besides, there are exercise stations, BBQs, and picnic tables. You can also walk or cycle around the river and see many local wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful picnic spot or an adrenaline rush, Riverbank Park has something for everyone.
Best Places to eat in Yass
If you are planning a weekend getaway to the Yass region, you may want to consider checking out one of the best restaurants in the area. Luckily, there are some great options for you. Here, we’ve listed a few top picks. We also highlight the best places to grab a bite and explore the town. Read on for more information on these great places to dine in Yass. After reading our list, you’ll know where to eat in the region.
Located on the Southern Tablelands, the Yass Valley offers an enticing getaway from the hustle and bustle of Sydney. Once famous for quality merino wool, this region is now a leading winery and food destination. It’s also home to a socially conscious coffee roaster and homewares boutiques. You can find delicious meals in these establishments, as well as award-winning wines and fresh produce.
While staying in a charming country town, make sure to sample some of the area’s fine dining. The Yass Valley is known for its exceptional Australian wines, and a few quaint country towns have histories linked to bush poets and bushrangers. Binalong, for example, is the birthplace of Banjo Paterson, and the town has a rich history of bushrangers. There’s a mural in Pioneer Park that tells the story of the death of infamous bushranger, Flash Johnny Gilbert. Several other great restaurants are found throughout the area, including the Yass Valley Winery.
10 interesting facts about Yass NSW
- Yass is a town located in the Southern Tablelands region of New South Wales, Australia.
- The town is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with several historic buildings and landmarks located throughout the town.
- Yass is home to several museums, including the Yass and District Museum and the Yass Old Courthouse Museum.
- The town is located in the heart of the Yass Valley, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and rolling hills.
- The area around Yass is known for its diverse agriculture, with a range of crops and livestock being raised in the region.
- The town is located on the banks of the Yass River, which flows into the Murrumbidgee River.
- Yass is home to a number of wineries and vineyards, which produce a range of high-quality wines.
- The town is home to a number of sporting clubs and facilities, including the Yass Golf Club and the Yass Swim Centre.
- Yass is located near several national parks and reserves, including the Namadgi National Park and the Murrumbidgee Valley National Park.
- The town is located about an hour’s drive from the Australian capital city of Canberra, and is a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways.