Australian Heritage

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.

Yass Valley Library Service

The Yass Library is located behind the Memorial Hall (off Comur Street). The Library has a large selection of books, magazines and DVD’s. There is free access to WiFi and public computers as well as printing and scanning services (fees associated). During school holidays there are a range of children’s activities to suit all ages and visitors to our region are welcome to join in.

Yass Library Opening Hours

Monday - 9.30am - 5.30pm Tuesday - 9.30am - 5.30pm Wednesday - 9.30am - 5.30pm Thursday - 9.30am - 7.00pm Friday - 9.30am - 5.30pm Saturday - 10.00am - 1.00pm Sunday - Closed

92 Comur St, Yass (02) 6226 1305 library@yass.nsw.gov.au yassvalley.nsw.gov.au/ our-services/libraries/

Yass & District Historical Society

Keeping our stories alive Museum – 247a Comur Street Groups by arrangement Archives – upstairs Soldiers Memorial Hall For current opening hours see our website

247A Comur St, Yass (02) 6226 2557 www.yasshistory.org.au

Yass Railway Heritage Centre

Model Railway display, Large static displays, Historic buildings and Railway Rolling Stock. Open Sunday 10am – 4pm. Extended days on Public Holidays & Long Weekends or by Appointment. Entry fees cash only.

Crago St, Yass 0432 073 091 / 0417 042 317 (after hours only) Find us on Facebook @Yassrailwaymuseum

Peter Minson Art Glass

With an open Studio, visitors can watch glass being blown, from small exquisite animals, functional glass teapots and wine glasses to original art glass all in a relaxed atmosphere. If driving through Binalong, make time to stop, refresh by trying a cuppa made with leaf tea in a glass teapot or espresso coffee and home cooked biscuits. While visiting the Gallery Cafe you could find that unique gift for someone special at Peter Minson Art Glass.

21 Queen St, Binalong (02) 6227 4312 peter@minsonartglass.com.au www.minsonartglass.com.au

St Columbus Church, Bookham

History & Heritage

Yass Valley Information Centre provides maps and guides with information on the rich history and heritage of the region. The material aims to pay tribute to the Traditional Owners of the land, providing information about Indigenous landmarks, as well as our European heritage, evident via the beautiful historic buildings that line our streets.