Nowra Bomaderry Local History
Nowra Bomaderry is located in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, Australia, and is an amalgamation of two former towns, Nowra and Bomaderry. The region has a rich history, which dates back to the pre-colonial times when the area was home to various Indigenous communities.
The Shoalhaven region was first explored by Captain James Cook in 1770. However, it wasn't until the early 1800s that the region was settled by Europeans. The first European to arrive in the area was George Bass, who sailed up the Shoalhaven River in 1797. Bass named the river after the aboriginal word 'Shoals Haven', meaning 'place of big fish.' In the early 1800s, the region was primarily used for farming and timber logging.
The town of Nowra was founded in the 1850s when a post office was established in the area. The name 'Nowra' is an aboriginal word meaning 'black cockatoo.' The town grew quickly in the late 1800s and early 1900s, with the establishment of the railway line and the opening of the Nowra Bridge.
Bomaderry, on the other hand, was established in the 1860s, and was initially called 'Broughton Creek.' The name was later changed to 'Bomaderry,' an aboriginal word meaning 'place of many fighting kangaroos.' The town grew slowly until the opening of the railway station in the early 1900s, which brought a new wave of growth to the area.
During World War II, Nowra became an important military base, with the establishment of the Royal Australian Naval Air Station (RANAS) in 1942. The base played a crucial role in the war effort, providing air support for Allied forces in the Pacific. After the war, the base continued to operate, and played a key role in the development of naval aviation in Australia.
In the 1970s, the Shoalhaven region experienced a period of rapid growth, with the population of Nowra and Bomaderry increasing dramatically. The growth was driven by the expansion of the local economy, which saw the establishment of new industries and the creation of new jobs. The opening of the HMAS Albatross naval base in the 1970s also contributed to the growth of the region.
Today, Nowra Bomaderry is a thriving regional center, with a population of over 35,000 people. The region is known for its natural beauty, including its stunning beaches, rugged coastline, and picturesque countryside. The area is also home to a range of cultural and recreational activities, such as the Shoalhaven River Festival, the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, and the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre.
In conclusion, the history of Nowra Bomaderry is a fascinating tale of growth and development. Starting from humble beginnings as farming and timber logging settlements, the region has grown to become a thriving regional center with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community. Today, Nowra Bomaderry is a wonderful place to live, work, and visit, offering a wealth of opportunities and experiences for everyone.