Overview
Wanganella's claim to fame is for the introduction to the world of the famous Australian Peppin merino, developed on neighbouring land by the Peppin family in the 19th century.
Situated on the banks of Billabong Creek, said to be the longest "creek" in Australia, the village of Wanganella once boasted two hotels, two blacksmiths, two stores, a school, a church, a bootmaker, a resident police officer and a small lock-up. A number of houses, mostly the homes of workers on Wanganella and other local stations, lined the streets. Sports were catered for with tennis courts and a cricket ground.
The last surviving licensed hotel was destroyed by fire in 1957and today the village consists of a general store, a community hall with adjoining playground, and a few houses and other buildings. It remains however, an interesting reminder of a bygone era.
History
George Hall Peppin and his two sons were experienced English sheep breeders who bought part of Wanganella Run (now Wanganella Station) in 1858. Dissatisfied with the yield and quality of wool from the sheep then available, they channelled their efforts into breeding a strain that was better adapted to Australian conditions, larger of frame and able to yield a greatly improved quality and quantity of wool. Their successes constitute the foundation of Australia's reputation as a quality wool exporter. The Peppin strain of merino sheep now predominates in Australian wool producing flocks and has been exported to other parts of the world.
In recognition of the contribution made by the Peppin merino to Australia, a bronze statue of a merino ram has been mounted on a stone base near the entrance to Wanganella Station, just south of the village.
In 1878 the Peppin lands and stock were bought by the Falkiner family under the company name of F.S. Falkiner & Sons. This famous firm continued to acquire land and became one of the major landholders in the Riverina. With its base at "Boonoke," on the Deniliquin-Conargo road, the collective group of properties is now owned by the Bell Group of companies.
The concrete bridge over the Billabong Creek at the edge of the village was constructed in 1970, replacing a timber structure situated a short distance upstream.
Attractions
The Wanganella General Store welcomes visitors to the area and provides an ideal location for a break. Rest for a while in the playground beside the Memorial Hall and check out the information on the adjacent board and Long Paddock interpretive panel.
Visitor Information
- Conargo Shire Council
- 122 End Street
- Deniliquin NSW 2710
- Ph: (03) 5880 1200
- Fax: (03) 5881 2568
- www.conargo.nsw.gov.au