Uralla, New South Wales
| Uralla New South Wales | |||||||||
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| Population | 2,304[1] | ||||||||
| Postcode(s) | 2358 | ||||||||
| Elevation | 1,012 m (3,320 ft) | ||||||||
| Location | |||||||||
| LGA(s) | Uralla Shire Council | ||||||||
| State electorate(s) | Northern Tablelands | ||||||||
| Federal division(s) | New England | ||||||||
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Uralla is a small town and a Local Government Area (Uralla Shire ) in the New England region of New South Wales, Australia. With a population of 2,304 at the 2001 census, Uralla is located at the intersection of the New England Highway and Thunderbolts Way about 465 kilometres north of Sydney and about 20 kilometres south west of the city of Armidale.[1][2].
At more than 1000 metres above sea level, Uralla's high altitude makes for cold winters and mild summers. Uralla reached town status in 1855, spurred on by a gold rush in the area, swelling the town's size to over 5,000. It is still possible to pan for gold in the rivers around the town, including the Rocky River. Today, the area is used for raising sheep and is renowned for its super-fine and ultra-fine wool for use in the fashion industry. A number of vineyards have also been established and produce a variety of cool-climate wines. It is also a good area for growing apples and other fruit which require colder weather.
Three foundries account for a large amount of employment in the town, as do other metal manufacturing businesses. As Uralla is situated about halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, tourism contributes significantly to its economy, with a thriving village atmosphere and 20 National Parks within a two hour drive. Due to Uralla's proximity to Armidale, larger shopping chains have avoided the small town and independent retailers remain. Examples include an antiquarian book store, numerous galleries, antique stores and cafes. The town also provides a venue for village style weddings held in historical surrounds, incorporating locally available authentic London taxis and custom designed woollen wedding gowns.[citation needed]
A wireless broadband trial in town using a tower on Mount Mutton has encouraged independent IT professionals to relocate to the area and form into a co-operative working arrangement named Granite Globe Incorporated[3].
The infamous bushranger Captain Thunderbolt (Frederick Ward) is buried in Uralla. There are many references to Thunderbolt throughout the town, and the locals are quite fond of the legend. In addition to an initially controversial statue in the main street, Uralla is host to a pub, motel, rock (from where Thunderbolt ambushed passing travellers) and roads, all bearing his name. On May 25, 1870, Thunderbolt was shot and killed near Uralla by Constable Alexander Walker during a highway robbery. However, a few Uralla locals claimed that it was his brother, William (Harry) Ward, who was killed at this time and not Fred Ward. The legend of Thunderbolt is exhibited at McCrossin's Mill Museum in Uralla and includes the series of 9 paintings by Phillip Pomroy of the events that led to Fred Ward's death.
Uralla is also host to a thriving community of artists and potters, stimulated by proximity to the University of New England in nearby Armidale.
There are a number of environmental problems in the area, mainly caused by poor land management. Soil erosion, due to extensive logging and intensive farm practices is a major issue. Local government and community environmental bodies are now working to halt the problem.[citation needed]
It is served by the daily Countrylink Xplorer service between Armidale and Sydney[4].
References
- ^ a b Australian Bureau of Statistics (9 March 2006). "Uralla (Urban Centre/Locality)". 2001 Census QuickStats. Retrieved 2007-06-30.
- ^ Geographical Names Board of New South Wales
- ^ Granite Globe website
- ^ CountryLink timetable from Armidale to Sydney
External links
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