I love West Wyalong

This page is a forum to promote West Wyalong and the surrounding area. We encourage you to share your events, photos, memories and information about West Wyalong. A little about our past and present courtesy of Bland Shire Web page The past The original occupants of the district were the Wiradjuri people. Explorer John Oxley was the first European to investigate the area in 1817, prophesysing that "From want of timber, grass and water, it would never be inhabited by civilised man". Despite this statement squatters began to settle the district in 1833 recognising the area's agricultural potential. Vast sheep and cattle runs were introduced and the area became known as "The Blands" after a Sydney doctor. It was not until Joseph Neeld discovered gold in 1893 that a centralised settlement developed. The town of Wyalong was laid out in 1894 to service the new population of up to 10,000. However a settlement to the west at the 'Main Camp' had already developed which also boasted the 'White Tank', the only established water supply. Hence in 1895 West Wyalong was officially laid out. West Wyalong's crooked Main Street reflects these early days as it follows the original bullock track that curved around trees and gold diggings. The Wyalong fields were reported as one of the most productive gold fields in the NSW until the 1920s. The Present Today, West Wyalong is located on the junction of the Newell and Mid-Western Highways. The Shire is recognised for outstanding country hospitality in welcoming new residents and visitors. Many travellers choose the Bland Shire as their preferred destination and resting point. The Bland Shire is a vibrant and progressive community located on the northern fringes of the Riverina region of New South Wales. The Shire offers a safe and family friendly country lifestyle. The Shire’s major centre of West Wyalong is located on the junction of the Newell and Mid Western Highways and within a 160 kilometre radius of Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Forbes, Parkes and Cowra and within 300 kilometres of Canberra – providing an authentic rural lifestyle with the conveniences of the city well within reach. The Shire offers outstanding parks and gardens, sporting and community facilities, terrific schools, key medical and business facilities and boasts a terrific community spirit. Communities located within the Bland Shire include Barmedman, Tallimba, Ungarie, Weethalle, Wyalong, Kikoira, Naradhan and Mirrool. The community is proud of its facilities and services but our greatest asset is our people and new residents are embraced and valued.