glen innes

Business Directory and Tourist Guide

WELCOME TO GLEN INNES

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.

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MUST DO'S

  • Australian Standing Stones – the national Celtic monument including Crofters Cottage café.

  • Land of the Beardies History House Museum – collections from the pioneering days onwards.

  • Emmaville Mining Museum – extensive mineral collections, photographic displays and mining artefacts.

  • World Heritage National Parks – great bushwalking, waterfalls and camping.

  • The Saddler – handcrafted saddles, bridles and leathergoods.

  • Adventure – fossicking, fishing and horse riding.

  • Surrounding Villages – enjoy country hospitality and historical sites at Emmaville, Torrington, Deepwater and Ben Lomond.

  • Wineries – exquisite cool climate wines.

  • Heritage Buildings – recently restored to their original colour schemes, check out the heritage walk brochure.

  • Gem Shops and Displays – local sapphires and other gems.

  • Old Grafton Road and the convict carved tunnel.

  • Parklands – cool in summer, glorious in autumn.

major annual events

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.

Ph: 02 6730 2400
E: tourism@gisc.nsw.gov.au www.gleninnestourism.com

Glen innes Visitor Information Centre

New England Highway
Glen Innes NSW 2370