Tooraweenah is aboriginal for “Home of the Brown Snake”
The traditional custodians of our ancient land describe it as a meeting place for the Wiradjuri, Kamilaroi & Wailwan nations.
Tooraweenah is not just a location to visit but a community to experience. A place where you can truly connect with the past and country Australias present.
Between the fires and the launch of covid, our family put a pin on the map of Australia, roughly halfway between where everyone lived. Travelling from Victoria, South Australia, NSW, And Queensland landed us in Tooraweenah. A spec of a town. But on our night walk, it had transformed into an abandoned movie set, a visual attractiveness I had not expected. An emotive scene: The stillness and street lighting created the most fantastic feeling of vastness, isolation, and presence at the same time. I fell in love with this little town that I had never heard of in the middle of nowhere.
CREATIVE INSPIRATION
Numerous character-filled old buildings and quiet streets for En Plein Air possibilities or photographs to take home. Above are just a few examples
PHOTOGRAPHY
Numerous character-filled old buildings and quiet streets for photographs. Above are just a few examples. Great views of Warrumbungle from the Viewing Platform just South of town - 299 John Renshaw Pkwy
PUBLIC ART
Brett Garling’s RETURNED SOLDIER SCULPTURE depicts a returned soldier stripping off his army uniform while reaching for a plough. Renouncing war, he looks toward his new life on the land. A pretty walk to do at sunrise or sunset! (900m south of town along John Renshaw Pkwy)
GALLERY
THE GALLERY BUTCHER - Old Butcher shop on the Cnr Murray St & Denman st, Tooraweenah NSW 2831 - content unknown(message me if you have a chance to visit) THE CARAVAN PARK - displays some colourful artworks of emus and quirky caravans by Scott & Janelle
WALKS
You can take the Tooraweenah Walkway from town (starts cnr Bridge st and Murray st) to the GK Rohr Warrumbungle Viewing Platform(900m) to see Brett Garling’s Returned Soldier Sculpture and take in the stunning view. Or View Tooraweenah Historical Walk (3km) by clicking on icon
*FREE
Hickeys Falls Parking Area 15min from town. 5627 Wells St, Gowang NSW 2357. DOG . FIRE . TABLES . CREEK . LRG RIG . RECEPTION . SHADE
***BUDGET
Tooraweenah Caravan Park. Bridge st, between Aimee st & Newton St, Tooraweenah NSW 2831 POWER . TENT . DOG . CABIN . POOL . (Tap icon to visit website)
****UNIQUE
Camp Blackman in the Warrumbungles National Park - 40min from Tooraweenah POWER . CARAVAN . TENT . SHOWERS . TOILETS . PHONE . WALKS . KANGAROOS . (Tap icon to visit website)
****OMG
Dark Sky Eco Resort at The Emu Hive. 51min from Tooraweenah. Everything about this place says WOW Coonabarabran NSW. Carmichaels Lane, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 (Tap icon to visit website)
Unearthing Creative Treasures:
Exploring the Inspirational Wealth of Small Country Towns
In the frenetic pace of modern life, the tranquility and untold stories hidden within the idyllic landscapes of small country towns often serve as treasure troves for creative souls seeking inspiration. Far from the bustling city lights and cacophony, these hidden gems offer an immersive experience rich in culture, tradition, and raw, unfiltered beauty. Whether you’re an artist, a writer, a photographer, or simply a curious traveller, the unassuming charm of these small towns can ignite a spark of creativity like no other.
Diving in
Each street, quaint cottage, or rustling tree in these towns harbours a tale waiting to be told. The heartwarming stories whispered by locals passed down through generations unravel the town’s history, customs, and legends. From the elderly couple managing the antique store on Main Street to the jovial café owner, everyone has a story, painting a vivid canvas of the town’s character.
Aesthetic Marvels in Every Corner
The architecture of small towns stands as a testament to history and tradition. The elegant Victorian houses, weathered barns, and centuries-old churches echo stories of a bygone era. Every weathered wooden beam and carefully crafted window frame whispers its own unique narrative, a tapestry of the town’s heritage waiting to be explored and appreciated.
Nature’s Silent Elixir
Nature, in its unadulterated form, generously graces these towns. Rolling hills, meandering rivers, and dense forests offer a sanctuary for the wandering creative soul. The symphony of bird calls, rustling leaves, and the gentle flow of streams compose a melodic rhythm that inspires artists, poets, and musicians alike.
Hidden Artistic Gems
Galleries, artisan workshops, and impromptu displays in a shop window showcase the talent and craftsmanship of local artisans. Their creations, be they handmade crafts or stunning paintings, reflect the town’s essence and can serve as a wellspring of inspiration for those seeking a new perspective or artistic direction.
The Quest for Creativity
In the labyrinth of these charming towns, creativity knows no bounds. The authentic connections made with locals, the stirring beauty of nature, the tales of yesteryears, and the flavors of tradition form an enigmatic ecosystem that invites all wanderers to tap into their imagination and unleash their artistic potential.
Whether you seek to paint a canvas, pen down a story, or capture nature’s beauty through a lens, small country towns harbor an unparalleled richness waiting to be uncovered. Their charm and simplicity serve as a beacon, guiding creative spirits to immerse themselves in an environment where inspiration flows as freely as the rivers and stories linger in the whispering winds.
So, the next time you embark on a journey, consider the hidden treasures waiting in these towns. Pack your curiosity, your creative tools, and an open heart—prepare to be astounded by the boundless inspiration that awaits in the unassuming corners of these delightful havens.