PLAN YOUR VISIT
GETTING THERE
If you are driving from Sydney, be aware that if you were to drive without breaks it would take you 7 hours. It's a good idea to stay overnight somewhere to break up the drive. Or, make sure you leave Friday morning to arrive by 5pm Friday evening, and remember that it can be a bit risky driving on country roads at dusk as there are kangaroos about. There is a carshare group on facebook if you are looking to find a ride or find company!
CAMPING
Many people attending Groundswell will be camping at The Showgrounds, which is across the road from The Living Classroom. The Showgrounds has hosted large groups of people camping before, it's a great, free venue with ample toilets and hot showers.
There will be three camping areas:
Tents
Campervans or other vehicles
RVs/motorhomes that are self-contained.
You will need to book a spot. To do so please contact:
Jen Mead (Gwydir Shire Council)
Tel: 02 6724 0066 or
Mob: 0400 826 551
Email: bingaratourism@gwydir.nsw.gov.au
When you arrive you will be directed to your spot. Please note there are no open fires permitted, though you can bring a fire pit or barrel, and of course use a gas stove.
WHAT ELSE TO SEE IN AND AROUND BINGARA
A really significant place to visit is the Myall Creek Memorial, which is 20 minutes out of town. The Myall Creek massacre took place in 1838, when 28 Wirrayaraay people who were camping at Myall Creek station were killed. It was the first and only time white men were convicted and hung for killing Aboriginal people during the frontier wars. The memorial site has been created through the leadership of Friends of Myall Creek, and is a significant symbol of Reconciliation in Australia. You can read a recent ABC article about it here [hyperlink to: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-06-10/myall-creek-massacre-memorial-a-symbol-of-reconciliation/9845158, and the National Museum of Australia's information here hyperlink to https://www.nma.gov.au/defining-moments/resources/myall-creek-massacre
GWYDIR RIVER
Bingara is Gamilaraay for 'Shallow river crossing', and the town straddles the Gwydir River. A lovely place to wander, and explore with the kids, especially as there are often ducks around and horses grazing peacefully on the banks. Take a look here [hyperlink to] http://www.bingara.com.au/things-to-do/recreation/gwydir-river/ . There's also a famous tree with amazing roots to discover.
