Yass Court House, Yass
australian
Heritage RICH WITH ABORIGINAL AND EUROPEAN HERITAGE, YASS VALLEY’S RURAL TOWNS AND VILLAGES ARE HOME TO MANY HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND LANDMARKS THAT CHARACTERISE OUR REGION AND PROVIDE A MAGNET FOR ARTISANS, CREATORS AND COLLECTORS. Traditional Owners The Yass Valley has traditionally been inhabited by the Aboriginal Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Tribes. The Ngunnawal tribe covered the area which is present day Canberra, extending out into the majority of the Yass Valley region. Wiradjuri covered a large portion of NSW, including an area within the western edge of the present-day Yass Valley. Yass Valley Council acknowledges the traditional owners of the land - the Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri. A two-hour Yass Highlights tour, delivered by Dhawura Tours, provides an introduction into Aboriginal interpretation and the cultural significance of the Yass River and bush foods found in the area.
European Settlement European settlement of the Yass Valley began as early as the 1820’s, following expeditions by Hume and Hovell, and Throsby and Wild. Land throughout the Yass Valley was settled relatively early, due to its location on the road to Port Phillip (Melbourne) and the quality of the surrounding land.
Rags to Riches Early fortunes within the region were influenced by the success of agriculture, notably the Fine Wool Industry, and the proximity to the Main Southern Railway Line and the Hume Highway. Yass & District Historical Society and the Gundaroo & District Historical Society preserve a treasure trove of information on history of the Yass Valley.
A Creatives Playground A love of fine things spread throughout the region, transforming Yass Valley into an artisan’s wonderland. Creative seeds planted by the likes of Banjo Paterson and more recently Kim Nelson, live on through locals, who gather in eclectic groups such as Yass Arts, Yass Repertory Society and A Brush with Poetry. Artists and makers proudly share their creations with visitors through retail outlets, galleries and studios throughout the region. Spend a day discovering inspiring artists at play at Peter Minson Glass Art, Tootsie Gallery Café, Creators Nest, Hillgrove Pottery Studio and Gallery and Old Saint Luke’s Studio.
An Inspiring Blend of Old and New.
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Australian Heritage | yassvalley.com.au
