Inverell Vibrant and inviting FRESH, vibrant and inviting is the bustling regional centre of Inverell, drawing thousands of visitors each year for its diversity of natural, historical and cultural attractions.With an elevation of 590m, Inverell has a fantastic climate – warmer than some higher New England settlements, but still experiencing distinct seasons and crisp winters where a wood fire creates a cosy ambience. With a burgeoning commercial and service sector, Inverell is fast becoming a leader in both regional industry and retail, creating a bright future for a town which balances the modern and the traditional with delicate precision. Inverell’s population of 12,000 incorporates a productive rural element with beef cattle, sheep and horticulture thriving on rich soils and a plentiful water supply. HISTORY Inverell is the main centre in an area opened up by Scottish-born Alexander Campbell, who ventured into the New England in 1835 and established both Byron and Inverell stations. His homestead site was at the junction of the Macintyre River and the Swan Brook, named because of the swans he had seen in the vicinity. Taking a lead from his father’s estate, Inverawe in Scotland, he named his station Inverell – ‘Inver’ meaning a meeting place and ‘ell’ meaning swan.The town of Inverell had its beginning when Colin and Rosanna Ross arrived in August 1853 to start a store for the settlers who had moved into the district. The Inverell Pioneer Village is a folk museum, realistically displaying local history.The village’s buildings are authentic and have been moved to the site from around the district and restored. Exhibits demonstrate the period portrayed from 1840- 1936 – the years that pioneered the nation. Run by a team of volunteers, exhibits include working engines and artefacts and the attraction caters for individuals as well as tour and school groups by appointment. Motor buffs may also enjoy a visit to the National Transport Museum with its growing display of more than 200 transport vehicles. It’s the largest voluntary display in Australia with some rare and unusual exhibits. Another tribute to the past is Inverell’s Scottish Memorial Cairn, located in Sinclair Park.The Cairn pays tribute to the district’s pioneers and latter generations. Also in Sinclair park, the Inverell and District Bicentennial Memorial exemplifies the community spirit of the individuals and organisations who freely gave their time, technical skills, labour and much of the material to create a permanent memorial to the historical development of the Inverell district before 1988. Special lighting allows the memorial to be viewed at night. It features three courtyards each relating to a different period. No.1 – The Tertiary Period and Aboriginal Tribal Culture, No.2 – 1788- 1888, and No.3 – 1888-1988 and Beyond. The area’s indigenous past can also be experienced with a visit to the Goonoowigall State Conservation Area, just a few kilometres south of Inverell. Once home to many indigenous families, the area features striking granite formations and an established walking trail with information plaques in a natural bush setting.