Ben Hall Creek Camp Near Grenfell – Hipcamp

Ben Hall Creek Camp Near Grenfell – Hipcamp

Ben Hall Creek Camp Near Grenfell – Hipcamp

Camping at Ben Hall Creek Camp – Hipcamp Near the Weddin Mountains. We were back at Wentworth Station for the 2025 Easter long weekend, where the same bushland that once hid bushranger Ben Hall now welcomes campers seeking starry skies and campfire stories.

This historic 1840s property – part of the Hipcamp network a platform for unique camping experiences on private land. The Ben Hall Creek Camp at wentworth Station near Grenfell remains a top pick for its pet friendly freedom, rugged trails and close proximity to the Weddin Mountains. Located roughly an hour’s drive from Young, Forbes, West Wyalong and Cowra and just 1 hour 15 minutes from Cootamundra. It’s ideal for explorers seeking outback charm with modern conveniences close by.

Ben Hall Creek Camp Near Grenfell Hipcamp

Ben Hall Creek Camp Near Grenfell Hipcamp

Why Camp At The Ben Hall Creek Hipcamp Near The Weddin Mountains?

  1. Bushranger history: Trace Ben Hall’s hideouts along the same creeks he used.
  2. Hipcamp perks: Book directly through the platform, with options for campfires and pet-friendly stays.
  3. Nature access: Explore Weddin Mountains National Park’s trails or Bimbi State Forest’s towering gums.

Top 10 Things To Do In And Around Grenfell

Here are the top 10 things to do in and around Grenfell, NSW:

  1. Explore Weddin Mountains National Park, including scenic drives, bushwalks, and wildlife spotting such as wedge-tailed eagles and peregrine falcons.
  2. Walk the Ben Hall’s Cave Walking Track, a historic bushranger hideout with rugged scenery and panoramic views.
  3. Visit the Grenfell Commodities Silos, featuring large-scale artwork by Heesco Khosnaran, a striking cultural landmark in town.
  4. Discover the Big Gold Pick and Pan, one of Australia’s iconic “big things” celebrating Grenfell’s gold mining heritage.
  5. Go geocaching, there are many geocaches spread throughout the Grenfell area.
  6. Take a self guided walking tour of Grenfell’s historic streetscape, including notable buildings like the former Union Bank and Band Hall.
  7. Visit Iandra Castle (Mt Oriel Homestead), an impressive early 20th-century mansion with open days for tours.
  8. Enjoy the Wallangreen Sculpture Garden, home to over 100 steel sculptures made from recycled farm machinery.
  9. Explore the Mount Grenfell Historic Site, featuring ancient Ngiyampaa Aboriginal rock art and walking trails with cultural significance.
  10. Attend local events such as the Henry Lawson Festival, Grenfell Gold Fest, and the Grenfell Picnic Races, which celebrate the town’s heritage and community spirit.

These activities offer a rich mix of natural beauty, history, culture, and community events that highlight Grenfell’s unique character in central New South Wales.

St Margarets Glenelg Church Near Grenfell Selfie

St Margarets Glenelg Church Near Grenfell Selfie

Getting To Ben Hall Creek Hipcamp

From Sydney, take the M4 and Great Western Highway (A32) through the Blue Mountains, Bathurst, and Cowra. Turn onto the Olympic Highway (B41) to Bimbi—allow 4.5 hours (380 km). Check real-time traffic via Live Traffic NSW.

Travel From Distance Time
Sydney 380 km 4.5 hrs
Adelaide 981 km 10.5 hrs
Canberra 211 km 2.5 hrs
Melbourne 606 km 6.5 hrs
Wagga 156 km 1.75 hrs

Pro Tips

  • Book early: Hipcamp sites like Wentworth Station fill fast for Easter.
  • Pack smart: April nights dip below 10°C – bring layers and marshmallows.
  • Local secret: Ask hosts about the hidden waterfall near Bimbi State Forest for a sunrise hike.

Why Ben Hall Creek Hipcamp At Wentworth Station Is Still a Winner

If you’re looking for somewhere to camp over easter that isn’t too far from Sydney give it a go. It’s only about 4.5 hours easy drive from Sydney. And being a Hipcamp site you are guaranteed to get a spot when you arrive. As a Hipcamp listed site Ben Hall Creek Hipamp at Wentworth Station balances basic bush camping with easy booking and and a confirmed site – important at busy periods such as Easter. Whether swapping tales by the fire or day tripping to Grenfell’s gold rush sites Ben Hall Creek Camp Hipcamp offers outback magic without sacrificing practicality. Just don’t forget the bug spray – and maybe keep an ear out for Ben Hall’s ghost!

Ben Hall Camped Here A Few Times

Ben Hall Camped Here A Few Times

Ben Hall Creek Hipcamp At Wentworth Station Photo Gallery

Geocaching Near Grenfell NSW & St Margarets Church Glenelg

Geocaching Near Grenfell NSW & St Margarets Church Glenelg

Geocaching Near Grenfell NSW & St Margarets Church Glenelg

Another day out geocaching near Grenfell. We spent the Easter long weekend camped at Ben Hall camp near Bimbi NSW again. We figured it would be rude to not get out and grab some nearby geocaches that we didn’t collect last time we stayed here.

All up we found 5 geocaches and didn’t have any DNFs. The one at St Margarets Church located at Glenelg about 15 minutes north of Grenfell was our favourite. It was such a nice old church that even had a bell in the churchyard that of course had to be rung!

Geocaching Around Glenelg Near Grenfell

Geocaching Around Glenelg Near Grenfell

What Did We Find Geocaching Around Grenfell NSW

  1. Found Eualdrie Views | GC4PKN4
    What a great Cache. TFTC
  2. Found Back Straight | GC4TQFD
    TFTC not quite where the coordinates say but found nevertheless
  3. Found Ooma goodness, stop nagging! | GC4WR90
    TFTC. Log was missing so replaced with a sheet of paper. Container lid is non existent but we didn’t have one to replace we did however put everything in a new sealed bag
  4. Found Sins of the past | GCQDAP
    What a beautiful little church. TFTC
  5. Found Holy Camp, Batman! | GC843YT
    Oh but yes this too me Batman. TFTC

A Bit Of History About St Margaret’s Anglican Church In Glenelg, New South Wales

St Margaret’s Anglican Church in Glenelg, New South Wales, has been a cornerstone of the local community since its establishment. Situated along Henry Lawson Way the church is part of the Anglican Diocese of Bathurst and is also known as the Parish of Grenfell and Saint Margaret’s.

The Glenelg area itself is rich in history, with deep roots extending well before European settlement. Originally inhabited by Aboriginal people who made use of the local environment for shelter, hunting and gathering. With European colonisation came change. By the early 1840s, Glenelg had evolved from a small cluster of houses into a more established village.

The St Margaret’s Anglican Church, Glenelg is part of the Parish of Grenfell and the Diocese of Bathurst. The church building was a gift from Mr Bert Priddle who purchased it from the village of Wyangala before the construction of the dam. It was a Roman Catholic Church building and Mr Priddle had the building moved in two parts and re-erected at the present site. It was licensed for public worship on 17th November 1935 and consecrated by Bishop Wylde on 19th August 1953.

Ringing The Church Bell At St Margarets Glenelg Church Near Grenfell

Ringing The Church Bell At St Margarets Glenelg Church Near Grenfell

St Margaret’s Milestones

The church has celebrated several significant milestones. The church was officially licensed for public worship on 17 November 1935, marking its formal role as a spiritual centre for the rural community. It was later consecrated by Bishop Wylde on 19 August 1953, further cementing its place within the Anglican Diocese of Bathurst.

St Margaret’s continues to serve as a hub for regular worship and community gatherings. Services are held on the fourth Sunday of each month as well as during major Christian festivals. Attracting members from various denominations in the area. The church also hosts ecumenical services in collaboration with other Christian groups in Weddin Shire, especially when there is a fifth Sunday in a month, fostering interdenominational unity. Support is ongoing with community events such as the annual Carols in the Park and participates in broader parish activities.

Holy Camp Eualdrie Walking Track

Holy Camp Eualdrie Walking Track

A Slightly Less Important Bit Of St Margaret’s History!

A more recent highlight in the church’s story occurred over the 2025 Easter long weekend, when Dave and Amanda discovered a geocache hidden on the church grounds. Having a geocache located here adds a modern twist to the site’s ongoing history, drawing new visitors and connecting the present day community to this historic landmark in a unique and memorable way.

Geocaching Near Grenfell Photo Gallery

Coward Springs Oodnadatta Track: We’ve Camped There Twice

Coward Springs Oodnadatta Track: We’ve Camped There Twice

Coward Springs Oodnadatta Track: We’ve Camped There Twice

Our two stays at Coward Springs Campground: Oodnadatta Track advice, donkey boiler showers and the springs – caravanning in SA’s outback.

Coward Springs campgrounds is a desert stop on the Oodnadatta Track that is full of history. Located along the famous Oodnadatta Track in South Australia’s outback, Coward Springs mixes history, nature and adventure. We first camped here in September 2019 with our Supreme Getaway off-road caravan and returned in August 2022 while on another trip. Both trips showed us what makes this spot special – and what challenges to expect.

Camping At Coward Springs Campground

Camping At Coward Springs Campground

Coward Springs Campground

Address: Oodnadatta Track, Stuarts Creek, South Australia 5733
GPS: -29.401325°, 136.813945°
Pet Friendly: Yes
Email: contact@cowardsprings.com.au
Website: http://www.cowardsprings.com.au
Phone: +61 8 8675 8336
Cost: (2025) $18 per adult & Children (3–15 years) half price
Adults: $15 per night
Bookings: https://cowardsprings.com.au/booking/

Amanda Checking In At Coward Springs

Amanda Checking In At Coward Springs

The Story Of Coward Springs

Coward Springs started as a stop for the Old Ghan Railway in the late 1800s, using water from the Great Artesian Basin to power steam trains. When the railway closed, the site nearly vanished until locals restored it in the 1990s. Today, you can explore the old railway workers’ huts, a small museum and the natural springs that keep this place alive.

Our 2019 vs. 2022 Experience

We’ve compared our two visits to help you plan better. We loved both stays!

Aspect September 2019 August 2022
Crowds Busy by 4 PM; all 20 campsites full. Quieter, with half the sites empty midweek.
Weather Warm days (25-30°C), chilly nights (5°C). Cooler days (18–22°C), freezing nights (0-3°C) – bring something warm to sleep in!
Natural Spring Waited 20 minutes for a soak. Walked straight in – no queues.
Road Conditions Dry, smooth gravel roads from William Creek. Recent rain caused minor rutting and corrugations; 4WD recommended.
Facilities Donkey boiler showers worked well. New compost toilets added.

10 Activities Near Coward Springs

  1. Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs
    Visited twice – the bright blue water of Blanche Cup never gets old!
  2. William Creek Pub
    Ate their famous pie in 2019; tried lamb shanks in 2022. Both meals hit the spot.
  3. Lake Eyre (Kati Thanda)
    Flew over in 2019 (water present), drove to Lake Eyre South in 2022 (bone-dry).
  4. Strangways Springs Ruins
    More signage added by 2022 – easier to understand the history.
  5. Algebuckina Bridge
    Have camped there three times. Great for sunset photos. See if you can find the graves.
  6. Coward Springs Walk
    The 1.5 km loop felt quicker in 2022 with cooler weather.
  7. Mutonia Sculpture Park
    New plane wreck art added near Lake Eyre since 2019. we’ve called in here every time we’ve travelled the Oodnadatta Track.
  8. Stargazing
    Clearer skies in August 2022 – saw the Southern Cross and Orion.
  9. Oodnadatta Track Drive
    Noticed more roadside rest areas by 2022.
  10. Chat with Travellers
    Met more international visitors in 2022 post-COVID border reopenings.

What We Learned Across Both Trips

  1. Best Time to Visit
    1. September: Warmer days but crowded. Book early.
    2. August: Quieter but pack warm clothes and bedding for freezing nights.
  2. Packing Tips
    1. 2019 Misses: Forgot to bring firewood with us. We ran out the night before.
    2. 2022 Wins: New caravan had a gas heater installed.
  3. Campground Changes (2019 vs. 2022)
    1. Improved: New compost toilets, better signage for walks.
    2. Same: No drinking water, power, or phone reception.

How To Drive To Coward Springs, South Australia

Reaching Coward Springs requires careful planning due to its remote location on the Oodnadatta Track, a historic outback route in northern South Australia. The track is largely unsealed, with gravel, corrugations, and occasional rutting after rain. A 4WD vehicle is recommended although 2WDs can manage in dry conditions if driven cautiously. From Adelaide, most travellers take the Princess Highway to Port Augusta, then head north via Leigh Creek to Marree—the official start of the Oodnadatta Track. From Marree, it’s a 160 km drive north to Coward Springs. Fuel, water, and spare tires are essential, as services are limited beyond Marree and William Creek. Always check the [SA Outback Roads Report](https://www.dpti.sa.gov.au/OutbackRoads) before departing.

Donkey Boiler

Donkey Boiler

Driving Distances And Times

From Capital Cities

Starting Point Distance to Coward Springs Estimated Driving Time Key Route Notes
Adelaide, SA 845 km 9–10 hours Via Port Augusta, Leigh Creek, and Marree. Mix of sealed and unsealed roads.
Melbourne, VIC 1,200 km 13–14 hours Follow Mallee Highway to Adelaide route, then north via Port Augusta.
Sydney, NSW 1,500 km 16–17 hours Via Broken Hill and Port Augusta. Mostly sealed until Marree.
Brisbane, QLD 2,000 km 22+ hours Through Bourke, Broken Hill, and Port Augusta. Long stretches of sealed highways.
Perth, WA 2,700 km 30+ hours Cross Nullarbor to Ceduna, then Port Augusta. Requires multiple overnight stops.
Darwin, NT 2,300 km 25+ hours Stuart Highway to Alice Springs, then south via Kulgera. Mostly sealed.

Along The Oodnadatta Track

Starting Point Distance to Coward Springs Estimated Driving Time Road Conditions
Marree, SA 160 km 2 hours Unsealed, corrugated. 2WD possible in dry weather.
William Creek, SA 90 km 1.5 hours Gravel with occasional washouts. 4WD advised after rain.
Oodnadatta, SA 280 km 3.5 hours Rough, sandy sections. 4WD essential.
Coober Pedy, SA 236 km 3 hours Unsealed via William Creek. Carry extra fuel.
Lake Eyre South (Halligan Bay) 110 km 2 hours Requires detour from William Creek. Check access permits.

Key Tips For Driving

  1. Fuel Up: Last reliable fuel stops are in Marree (south) or Oodnadatta (north).
  2. Water & Supplies: Carry 10L water/person/day. No shops between Marree and William Creek.
  3. Tyres: Reduce tire pressure to 28–32 PSI for corrugations.
  4. Weather: Avoid travel after rain – roads close quickly.
  5. Permits: Some detours (e.g., Lake Eyre) require National Parks permits.

By planning ahead and respecting the outback’s challenges, your drive to Coward Springs will be an unforgettable adventure.

Conclusion: Why Coward Springs Deserves A Spot On Your Outback Itinerary

Coward Springs, South Australia, is more than a campground – it’s a portal to the raw beauty and layered history of the outback. From its bubbling artesian spa to the echoes of the Old Ghan Railway, this remote oasis rewards travellers willing to embrace its rugged simplicity. Our two visits – in September 2019 and August 2022 – taught us that timing is key: spring brings warmth and crowds, while winter offers solitude (and chilly nights). The journey here, whether from Adelaide or Darwin, is part of the adventure. The Oodnadatta Track’s corrugations and dust test your preparation, but the payoff – soaking in 29°C mineral waters under a desert sky – is unmatched. While facilities remain basic (donkey boilers and compost toilets included), the camaraderie among campers and the haunting beauty of nearby sites like Wabma Kadarbu Springs elevate the experience.

For caravanners, Coward Springs is a rite of passage. It demands self sufficiency, extra water, firewood and patience – but delivers an authenticity that glossy resorts can’t replicate. Whether you’re tracing Aboriginal trade routes, photographing wedge-tailed eagles or swapping stories at William Creek Pub this corner of South Australia etches itself into your memory.

Final Tip: Plan meticulously, pack your sense of humour and let the outback work its magic. As we’ve learned twice now, Coward Springs isn’t just a destination – it’s a story waiting to unfold.

The Bubbler Moundspring On The Oodnadatta Track

The Bubbler Moundspring On The Oodnadatta Track

Final Thoughts

  • 2019 vs. 2022: Both trips had pros. September’s warmth suited swimming, while August’s quiet let us enjoy the springs alone.
  • Would We Return? Yes – but in late autumn (April/May) to avoid extremes.
  • Biggest Surprise: The museum expanded by 2022 with railway artifacts dug up locally.
  • Essential Tip: Bring 20% more water than you think you’ll need. Both times we ran low.

Helpful Links:

Coward Springs Campground Photos

Geocaching Near Canberra

Geocaching Near Canberra

Geocaching Near Canberra

Another day out geocaching near Canberra. This time there was no pub but there were meatballs at IKEA! We found a total of 15 geocaches with no DNF’s. If we’d had time we could have found a thousand more. There a lots of geocaches in and around Canberra.

Some of the locations we found geocaches include around Canberra Airport and Duntroon Military College. We drove through the Duntroon Military College on our way up the hill to a geocache located at Mount Pleasant Lookout.

Geocaching Up A Tree

Geocaching Up A Tree

What Did We Find Geocaching Around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park And Dirnaseer NSW

  1. Found Eden Rd | GC6N1M9
    Another find on our way home to Coota
  2. Found bus shelter | GC9Z95V
    Found on our way home to Coota
  3. Found Outgoing #8 | GC814T9
    TFTC found on our way home after a weekend away in Canberra.
  4. Found Van Friendly 5 | GCQG26
    Nice find on our way home to Coota
  5. Found Cleared for Caching #4 | GCAWMG2
    TFTC
  6. Found Not So Pleasant | GC2DRE8
    Wow that was a doozy for a couple of old fat people but we did it. We never say never we’ll not often. TFTC
  7. Found Canberra Cannons | GC3BKAP
    What a great hide and an awesome lookout. TFTC
  8. Found Beautiful Plane #3 | GC7TJNP
    Great hide. Was great seeing a few planes take off too
  9. Found Beautiful Plane #2 | GC7TJNM
    Needs attention very wet inside
  10. Found Beautiful Plane #1 | GC7TJNJ
    Found the cache and got to see the cows being feed. Win win with this one
  11. Found Beautiful Plane… | GC7TJNE
    TFTC
  12. Found Redwood Park | GC2PQ7F
    Another great hide TFTC
  13. Found Eleven Pipers Piping | GC37XX5
    Great hide TFTC
  14. Found Queanbeyan Parks – Barracks Flat Park | GC63F69
    Great hide. Cache is very wet and not in a bag. Will need attention
  15. Found Australian War Memorial – Virtual | GC892P0
    On a weekend break in Canberra from Cootamundra to visit the War memorial and do a bit of Cacheing

No Pub Lunch But We Visited IKEA Meatball Heaven

Amanda made me take her to IKEA while we were in Canberra. I’m not a fan of shopping – to be honest my dislike of shopping goes deep! Few things can salvage a IKEA shopping trip quite like the Swedish meatballs in their cafeteria. These perfectly succulent, tender pork and beef köttbullar (supposedly that’s their real name) smothered in creamy gravy and paired with tart lingonberry jam – are a triumph of simplicity. Made with onion, breadcrumbs and a hint of allspice for that unmistakably warm, flavour. What makes them truly irresistible? A clever balance of saltiness that enhances the meat’s richness plus the psychological boost of stumbling upon them in the middle of your shopping marathon when hunger (and existential despair over flat pack hell) peaks.

The Canberra location takes pride in its meatball legacy having sold 24 tonnes in its first year alone.. Served with buttery mashed potatoes or as a quick bite at the cafe they’re not just food – they’re a ritual. Each bite of those juicy, gravy drenched spheres feel like a mini Swedish holiday.

As an added bonus I bought a kilo bag of the little buggers complete with their gravy and mashed potato plus a jar of the jam. They sell them frozen and I love to take them camping as they’re a quick easy meal. As an an added bonus on top of the added bonus we found a geocache right next to the IKEA carpark!

Kaboom! Amanda With A Geocache In A Cannon Up Above Canberra

Kaboom! Amanda With A Geocache In A Cannon Up Above Canberra

Geocaching In And Around Canberra Photo Gallery

The Australian War Memorial Museum – Great Way To Spend Day

The Australian War Memorial Museum – Great Way To Spend Day

The Australian War Memorial Museum – Great Way To Spend Day

Honouring Australia’s military history the Australian War Memorial Museum showcases powerful WW1/WW2 exhibits, Victoria Cross displays and moving tributes to national sacrifice in Canberra.

Canberra’s weather often shifts without warning and on the weekend Amanda and I visited the Australian War Memorial Museum, the skies opened up with steady rain. Yet, the sombre drizzle felt fitting for a place dedicated to remembrance. Nestled at the base of Mount Ainslie, the Memorial stands as both a museum and a shrine – a place where history, sacrifice and national identity converge.

For travellers exploring Australia by caravan or motorhome Canberra is a key stop and the Australian War Memorial Museum is an essential visit. Even if military history isn’t your primary interest, the depth of storytelling here makes it compelling.

Spitfire Mk11a Australian War Memorial

Spitfire Mk11a Australian War Memorial

Exploring The WW1 And WW2 Galleries

We began our visit in the First World War gallery, recently redeveloped to offer an even more immersive experience. Life-sized dioramas, personal letters and recovered artifacts – like a bullet riddled trench sign from Gallipoli brought the past into sharp focus. The exhibit doesn’t just recount battles; it humanises the soldiers, showing their daily struggles and moments of camaraderie.

Moving into the Second World War gallery the atmosphere shifted. Interactive displays, including the Bomber Command experience used sound and light to recreate the intensity of aerial combat. One section detailed the Kokoda Track campaign, where Australian troops fought in brutal jungle conditions. The realism of these exhibits made history tangible, bridging the decades between then and now.

Chevrolet AIFL 10822

Chevrolet AIFL 10822

Hall Of Valour At The Australian War Memorial Museum: Stories Of Extraordinary Courage

A short walk led us to the Hall of Valour, home to the largest collection of Victoria Crosses (VC) and George Crosses (GC) in the country. Each medal represents an act of astonishing bravery – some awarded posthumously.

One display told the story of Captain Alfred Shout VC, who died at Lone Pine during Gallipoli after rescuing wounded men under heavy fire. Another highlighted Nancy Wake GC, a resistance fighter in Nazi occupied France. Seeing these medals up close, knowing the sacrifices behind them, was deeply humbling.

Notable VC/GC Recipients Conflict Act of Bravery
Alfred Shout VC WW1 (Gallipoli) Held off Turkish forces while rescuing wounded
Nancy Wake GC WW2 (France) Led raids, saved Allied airmen from capture
Mark Donaldson VC Afghanistan Rescued wounded under Taliban fire

A Reflective Break At Poppy’s Café

By midday we needed a break. Poppy’s Café, located within the Memorial grounds, offered a warm respite. The large windows framed a misty view of Anzac Parade, with Parliament House visible in the distance.

The menu featured hearty, comforting food. Amanda had a chicken burger while I had the pulled pork burger. Both were excellent and the coffee hit the spot. For those planning a visit, the café also caters to dietary preferences, with gluten free and vegetarian options available.

Why The Australian War Memorial Museum Resonates Beyond History Buffs

You don’t need a military background to appreciate this museum. The Australian War Memorial Museum excels in storytelling, making complex history accessible. Interactive exhibits, personal accounts and carefully curated artifacts ensure visitors leave with more than just facts – they take away emotional connections.

For caravanning and camping travellers, the Memorial is also practical. Ample parking (including for larger vehicles) and well maintained facilities make it an easy addition to any Canberra itinerary.

Contact Details and Visitor Information For the Australian War Memorial Museum In Canberra

Here are the key details for visiting the Australian War Memorial Museum in Canberra:

Address

  • Street Address: Treloar Crescent, Campbell ACT 2612, Australia
  • Postal Address: GPO Box 345, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
  • Location: At the northern terminus of Anzac Parade, near Mount Ainslie.

Contact Details

General Enquiries

Research Centre

Opening Hours

  • Galleries: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily (Closed Christmas Day).
  • Last Post Ceremony: 4:30 PM daily (a moving tribute to fallen service members).
  • Memorial Grounds: Accessible outside gallery hours, including ANZAC Parade and the sculpture garden.

Additional Notes

  • Entry Fees: Entry is free, and no tickets are required.
  • Facilities: Café, carpark, wheelchair access, and guided tours available.
  • For updates, check the official website.

Final Thoughts On The Australian War Memorial Museum

Rain or shine, the Australian War Memorial Museum is a must visit. It’s more than a museum – it’s a place of reflection, honouring those who shaped Australia’s story. Whether you spend two hours or a full day, the experience stays with you.

If you’re passing through Canberra, make time for this landmark. And if the weather turns, as it did for us, let the rain add to the poignancy of your visit.

Liferaft Display WW2

Liferaft Display WW2

Australian War Memorial Museum Photo Gallery

Geocaching Around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park And Dirnaseer

Geocaching Around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park And Dirnaseer

Geocaching Around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park And Dirnaseer

Another day out geocaching around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park and Dirnaseer. Called in for a beer at the Ariah Park Hotel. We headed out from home at Cootamundra at about 9.30am and got home early at 3.30pm as it was too hot to keep going. It was without a doubt the hottest day we’ve spent geocaching. All up we covered around 240kms.

Out and about today doing some more geocaching around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park and Dirnaseer. Found 10 of them and had just the one DNF. We even managed to get one on an island out at the Ariah Park Arboretum that you normally have to paddle out to. It’s been a bit dry around here lately so the lake was empty and it was just an easy walk instead of a big paddle.

Today the temperature got up to around 38 degrees with a wind roaring out of the northwest making it feel even hotter than it was. There was a lot of dust being blown around particularly out around Dirnaseer. Near Dirnaseer the dust was so thick it was like driving in a heavy fog. All up it probably wasn’t the best day to be out geocaching but we still had a great time. Being out geocaching no matter the weather makes for a better day than sitting at home doing nothing!

A Very Windy Day Selfie At Dirnaseer Hall

A Very Windy Day Selfie At Dirnaseer Hall

What Did We Find Geocaching Around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park And Dirnaseer NSW

  1. You Found Hello there, Coota! | GC911A4
    Great hide TFTC
  2. You Found Dirnaseer Memorial Hall | GCAYM2D
    Our last find for the day TFTC
  3. You Found Dirnaseer Community Church | GCAYM31
    What a beautiful little church TFTC
  4. You Found NAR – Hidden Away | GC7WH89
    Another great hide found on the way home from Ariah park
  5. You Found The Island | GCAWDNM
    No need to swim to the island today as it is very dry. After nice walk we found the cache right where it should be
  6. You Found Lake Arbortree | GC9627Y
    Took us a while but after a bit of persistence we finally found it. TFTC
  7. You Found Ariah Park Cemetery | GC9627A
    Great hide. Plastic bag had seen better days so we have replaced it
  8. You Found Grenelle School | GCA85F5
    What a great piece of history TFTC
  9. You Didn’t Find Trungley Hall Multi | GCA85CB
    DNF
  10. You Found Trungley Hall | GC6YWB0
    Great hide TFTC
  11. You Found Temora Station | GCA85BV
    TFTC our first for the day

A Beer At The Ariah Park Hotel

The Ariah Park Hotel is another pub to add to our list of those that we’ve had a beer in. It’s a beautiful old pub and it has managed to maintain a lot of its original internal fixtures from the old days. It’s listed as having been built in 1903 so it’s a grand old lady. It was so bloody hot outside that we stayed inside the hotel long enough for a couple of beers. I had a couple of schooners of Reschs (my new favourite) and Amanda had a couple of Brookvale Union ginger beers. The ginger beers were served in some funky looking Brookvale Union schooner glasses, will have to look up to find out if you can buy them.

Ariah park Hotel

Ariah Park Hotel

The Grave Of Little Laurance McKenzie In The Ariah Park Cemetery

We visited the Ariah Park Cemetery a few years ago and when we were there we saw a little grave all on it’s own off to one side of the cemetery. It looked to be pretty lonely and a bit strange that it was off on its own. When we decided to call in there again Amanda bought some flowers and a little doll thing the day before and she placed them around his grave. The poor little fella only lived 8 months and it was really sad to see his grave away from the others. This time we noticed that someone else had placed some flowers on his grave as well so it’s great to see that people are thinking of him.

Grave Of Laurance Mckenzie In Aria Park Cemetery

Grave Of Laurance Mckenzie In Aria Park Cemetery

A Brief History Of Trungley Hall NSW

Trungley Hall is a small locality in New South Wales. It has a rich history tied to its early settlement and community life. The town’s origins can be traced back to the 19th century when it became a hub for German migrants who were attracted to the Riverina region due to free selection policies. By 1876 the area was officially known as Germantown reflecting its strong German heritage.

Trungley Hall Cemetery

The Trungley Hall Cemetery also known as Narraburra Cemetery is a significant historical site in the area. Located on Trungley Road, it contains 126 memorial records and serves as a resting place for early settlers and their descendants. The cemetery reflects the community’s multicultural roots particularly its German influence. It’s a testament to the region’s agricultural and commercial development.

While specific notable individuals buried at Trungley Hall Cemetery are not extensively documented, the cemetery is part of a broader narrative of German migration and settlement in the Riverina. August Menneke, a legendary bell-maker and blacksmith who migrated from Germany in the 1850s is one of the notable figures associated with the region. Though his burial site is not confirmed to be at Trungley Hall, his legacy is intertwined with the area’s history.

Trungley Hall’s history is also linked to local commerce, agriculture, and community activities, such as the Wilna Wattle Debating Society, which highlights the vibrant social life of early settlers. The cemetery and the town itself remain important markers of the Riverina’s cultural and historical heritage.

Going For A Look At Trungley Hall Church

Going For A Look At Trungley Hall Church

Geocaching Around Trungley Hall, Ariah Park And Dirnaseer NSW