The serene Riverina region cradles the historic town of Temora, nicknamed the “Friendliest Town in New South Wales”. Cultural venues highlight its history in aviation and the gold-rush era, with fascinating museums, self-guided tours and a 1920s heritage village.

Things to do

Visit the Temora Aviation Museum for a fascinating look at flying vintage warplanes, including two Spitfires, a Gloster Meteor F8 and a Hudson Bomber. Check the schedule for actual flying displays on Saturdays at the Temora Aerodrome, located adjacent to the museum. If you’re the plan-ahead type, schedule a trip to coincide with the famous Warbirds Downunder air show.

Temora highlights its past with collections in the Temora Rural Museum, showcasing everything from pioneer life to the original home of cricket star Sir Donald Bradman. The 19th-century gold rush transformed the settlement and the museum features exhibits such as a replica of the famous 7.3-kilogram gold nugget known as “Mother Shipton”.

Roam through a 1920s-era heritage village at Ariah Park, a National Trust-classified treasure just 20 minutes from Temora. You’ll find old-fashioned shops, antique stores and classic architecture. Have a meal at the White Rose Café or picnic along Lake Arbortree.

Feel like getting some exercise? Start with a walking tour of Temora’s colonial and Art Deco buildings, then head out for some bushwalking and birdwatching in nearby Ingalba National Forest. You can also explore nature reserves, Mirrool Creek and Yarranjerry State Forest.

Getting there

Temora is about 450 kilometres from Sydney, where you can hire a rental car. If you arrive via Wagga Wagga, you can take a bus or rental car for the 60-minute drive to Temora.