Snowy River Region Local History
The Local History of Snowy River Region, New South Wales, Australia
The Snowy River Region in New South Wales, Australia, is a place steeped in history and tradition. Today, it is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, but its past is just as fascinating. From the indigenous Australians who lived here for thousands of years to the European settlers who arrived in the 1800s, Snowy River Region has a rich and varied history.
The Indigenous Australians
The land that is now Snowy River Region was inhabited by indigenous Australians for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. The local indigenous people were the Ngarigo and the Monaro tribes, who lived off the land and developed a deep knowledge of the area's flora and fauna. They would hunt, gather, and fish in the area, with the Snowy River providing a vital source of food and water.
The Ngarigo and the Monaro were skilled in the use of fire, which they used to manage the land and encourage the growth of edible plants and grasses. They also had their own spiritual and cultural traditions, which were passed down through the generations.
The Arrival of European Settlers
The first European settlers arrived in the Snowy River Region in the early 1800s, drawn by the promise of fertile land and abundant resources. They were mostly graziers and farmers, who brought with them European farming practices and livestock. They also established towns and settlements, such as Jindabyne and Berridale.
The Snowy River Region played an important role in the development of the Australian wool industry, with many of the early settlers raising sheep for wool. The region also became an important stopping point for travellers and drovers, who would rest and resupply in the towns along the way.
The Snowy Mountains Scheme
In the 1940s and 1950s, Snowy River Region played a major role in the construction of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, a massive hydroelectricity and irrigation project that transformed the region and the country. The scheme involved the construction of dams, tunnels, power stations, and aqueducts, and required the labour of thousands of workers from around the world. Many of these workers settled in the region, bringing with them their own cultures and traditions.
The Snowy Mountains Scheme had a profound impact on the Snowy River Region, both in terms of its landscape and its economy. The scheme created numerous jobs and brought prosperity to the region, but it also resulted in the displacement of many indigenous Australians and the loss of culturally significant sites.
Today
Today, Snowy River Region is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. The region's natural beauty, with its snow-capped mountains, pristine rivers, and lush forests, draws visitors from around the world. The region also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, fishing, and mountain biking.
Despite the changes that have taken place over the centuries, Snowy River Region has managed to maintain its unique character and sense of place. The region's history and traditions are celebrated through museums, festivals, and events. And while the region continues to evolve and change, its rich heritage will always be an important part of its identity.