Glen Innes is the perfect destination for an exciting adventure or that relaxing getaway.
Population:
Glen Innes Severn Council 10,000.
Location:
Strategically at the intersection of the New England and the Gwydir Highways, four hours from Brisbane, seven hours from Sydney.
Altitude:
1072m
Temperature:
Average – Summer minimum 12.5°C, maximum 26°C;
Winter minimum 1°C, maximum 13.5°C
Industries:
Wool, sheep, cattle, agriculture, viticulture, sapphires, tourism.
History:
Scot Archibald Boyd, from Selkirkshire, was the district’s first settler. He was guided by bearded Stockman William Chandler and John Duval, both celebrated in the Land of the Beardies Festival and Land of the Beardies History House. The town was gazetted in 1852.
January – Country Races
Glen Innes race day second Saturday in January, Deepwater third Saturday. A once a year country racing event in both locations. Feel the atmosphere of this prestigious event by watching the races from the historic grandstand, dress in racing attire and wander the horse stalls all whilst enjoying a glass of fine wine or cool beer.
February – Glen Innes Pastoral & Agricultural Show
Best show in the north since 1868 with a full ring program for three days and two nights, fireworks, demolition derby and grand parade. Over 35 different sections. Enjoy experiencing the country lifestyle. www.gleninnes.com/showsociety
March – Minerama
A must see event on the Gem and Jewellery events calendar. There’s something for everyone including four days of fossicking trips. Inside/outside traders from across Australia; lapidary supplies, jewellery and fossicking field trips.
www.minerama.com.au
March – Emmaville Sheep Races
Enjoy a fun day out at the Emmaville Sheep Races. A great event becoming more popular each year.
May – Australian CELTIC Festival (First weekend)
Clans, national groups, pipe bands, artists and spectators come from all over the world to celebrate this highland festival. Highlights include Saturday street parade, Celtic dancers, concerts, choirs, storytellers, yard dog trials, Kirking of the Tartan clan ceremonies, living village, food and market traders as well as the popular Celtic Sheep Dog Trials.
www.australiancelticfestival.com
June – Winter Solstice Event
Dawn service at the Australian Standing Stones on sunrise is an inspiring experience. The Sun rising to the unmistakable sounds of Scottish war pipes reveals the significance of the Winter Solstice. The magic of Harry Potter and the mystery surrounding King Arthur is part of the Winter Solstice Celebration.
August – Hereford and Poll Hereford Show and Sale
Second largest multi-vendor sale in Australia.
October – The
New England Wine Show
The New England Wine show highlights the best wines the New England and surrounding areas have to offer. Incorporating public wine tastings.
November – Land of the Beardies Festival (first two weeks)
Delightful family festival; entertainment and activities that celebrate the community spirit of our town. Free entertainment, beard competition, colourful street parade, food and market stalls in King Edward parklands, show and shine, cut flower show, Tug-O-War, campdrafting, billy cart derby, drag races, New England Heritage in Verse and fireworks.
www.beardiesfestival.com
November – Deepwater Scarecrow and Wool Festival
Held over two days the Deepwater Scarecrow and Wool Festival is enjoying a growing attendance.
Community Markets are on the Second Sunday of the month.
Call into the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre located on the New England Highway
and allow
our friendly staff to assist you with accommodation and attraction information,
touring trails, district maps and group itineraries.