Letter from a local soldier
written during the assault on Turkey, World War I. Deniliquin Historical Society Museum.
A collection of Red Cross items
on display at the Deniliquin and District Historical Society Museum
A collection of technology
including typewriter and film projector on display at the Deniliquin Historical Society Museum.
Known locally as ‘Deni’, Deniliquin sits on the edge of the Edward River and a small branch of the Murray River in south western NSW. Framed by majestic river gums, the town is one of the most picturesque in NSW and testament to the transformative power of water in an otherwise dry land.
Springing up in the spot where drovers forded the river with their stock, the town abounds with things to see and do. The river meanders through the town centre flanked by well-tended parkland and fringed with rose gardens. Much has been done to show the town and its heritage to advantage.
Best approach to uncovering Deniliquin’s heritage is to head to the Visitor Centre. Here you can find ‘what’s on’ and take a look at the Peppin Heritage Centre which presents the history of the merino and a well-articulated agricultural perspective on the region. They have a good mix of local exhibitions and contemporary shows like the Bald Archies and Art Express.
Back this up with a visit to the Deniliquin and District Historical Society Museum. They’re custodians of the some of the stories of the Long Paddock stock route and spending an hour there gives you a nice snapshot of the past. Located in the former Police Inspectors residence, the museum is right on the river’s edge and features displays on the life of local residents; the annual picnic races, the role of the Red Cross and stories from the early days of settlement. They also have a rose garden to delight.
They’re custodians of the some of the stories of the Long Paddock stock route and spending an hour there gives you a nice snapshot of the past.
Deniliquin borders the Murray River National Park and the Barmah Wetlands, an area rich in bird and wildlife featuring some of the world’s largest red gum forests. It’s not hard to see why the Aboriginal people prospered there – the region being home to three major groups of the area; the Barapa Barapa, Wampa Wampa and the Yorta Yorta peoples. The name Deniliquin being derived from Denilakoon, a local Aboriginal chief noted for his size, strength and his wrestling ability.
Deniliquin is a perfect stop on a long trip as well as a destination in its own right. You’ll be close to the paddle steamer at Echuca on the winding waterway of the mighty Murray, within easy reach of Jerilderie and bushranger country and merely a hop, skip and a jump to Victoria.
See the Paddock Trail: Deniliquin to Hay
