Tilba

from Far South Coast iMag March/April 2020

23

Charming Tilba

Things to See & Do Go for a hike up Gulaga Mountain Explore the fascinating shops Take a tour with Tilba Talks Heritage Walks Drop in and explore Gulaga Gallery Try fishing at Mystery Bay

The villages of Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba lie on the slopes of Gulaga, a place of great spiritual significance to the local Yuin nation, particularly Yuin women. Gulaga is cloaked with an amazing rainforest around its peak and it's well worth hiking to the top for spectacular views (approx. 5 hours). Access the walking track from the rear of Pam's Store in Tilba Tilba. Named Mt. Dromedary by Captain Cook in 1770, the lower slopes of Gulaga became the site of much activity when gold was discovered in the 1860s. Many of Tilba’ s buildings were constructed in the late 1880s when the gold boom was at its peak. By the time mining ceased, the dairy industry was firmly established as the main source of income for the area.

34 The entire village of Central Tilba was classified by the National Trust in 1974 in recognition of its historical significance. Central Tilba has maintained its village atmosphere, and has become a centre for craftspeople and artisans, as well as oldfashioned stores like the general store, lolly shop and toy shop. Leatherwork, art studios, woodwork, unusual clothing, cafes, antiques and giftware, as well as a bakery and a pub are all located on Central Tilba’s main street. Gulaga Gallery has beautiful hemp and bamboo clothing, music, jewellery, crystals, books and much more. Lovers of leatherwork should make a beeline for Tilba Leather, with its range of gorgeous leather shoes, bags, belts, wallets and more. Reva at Tilba works with passionate designers from all over the world who create quintessentially beautiful, unique, handmade pieces of jewellery - don't walk past it. Passionfish make their beautiful soy candles by hand; their shop smells divine. Take a tour with Tilba Talks Heritage Walks to discover some of Tilba's secrets from days gone by, sample locally made cheeses from Tilba Real Dairy and finish off with a delicious Devonshire tea.

Gulaga Gallery & Bookstore (02) 4473 7233 A real highlight of the Easter weekend on the NSW South Coast is the Tilba Festival! Held on Easter Saturday on Bate Street, Central Tilba since the mid-1980s, the Festival is a celebration of the heritage, local produce, musical talent and community of this outstanding region. The Tilba District boasts a rich history and some of the most spectacular scenery in NSW. After the summer of turmoil and loss, come to Tilba and celebrate all that is great about the region. Join us for 6 hours of live music, an amazing array of food, traditional street games and great entertainment for the kids. All music, street games and most entertainment will be covered in the entry fee. Organised by a small group of enthusiastic volunteers, the Festival is a not-for-profit community event. Proceeds from the festival traditionally support various local groups, directly benefiting the community, heritage and environment of the Tilba District. For the latest news on the Festival, follow us on Facebook @tilba.festival Celebrate with community at the Tilba Festival