Nowra, South Coast NSW — New South Wales

Nowra is a city located in the South Coast region of New South Wales, on the southern banks of the Shoalhaven River. The place-name was derived from an Aboriginal word that translates either as ‘black cockatoo’ or ‘camping place.’ The city is located across the town of Bomaderry.

Cruises up and down the river are available and depart from the city wharf three times a week, allowing visitors glimpses of beautiful riverside scenery.

There are several destinations within and around the city that are suitable for the whole family, including the children. One of these is the Nowra Wildlife Park, where visitors get to handle the koalas and reptiles kept in the park. The park is also ideal for picnics and barbecues.

The Harry Sawkins Park, along Princes Highway, features a playground for children and the Orchid House.

There are a few structures within Nowra that should be appreciated for their historic importance. One is 'Meroogal,’ a Gothic house located on the corner of Worrigee and West Streets. Visitors are welcome to have a tour of its interiors, including furnishings collected from the time of its construction in 1885.

The Shoalhaven Historical Museum, on Plunkett Street, is housed within an old school building that was built in 1900. The museum showcases everything related to the history of the Nowra District, including household items commonly used in the last two centuries.

A related establishment is the Shoalhaven City Arts Centre on Berry Street, where artworks of local and national artists are exhibited. The center focuses on the culture and artistry not just of the city but of the whole Shoalhaven area.

For those interested in purchasing several items to take home, strolling along Graham Street will take them to Parkside Galleries where numerous arts and crafts products are sold.

Local handicraft products can also be bought at the Werninck Craft Cottage, on Plunkettt Street. Sales of these items are also donated to local charities and foundations. The structure itself is of interest, being constructed in 1900 as a settler’s cottage.

Nowra also boasts of its own historic homestead, once owned by artist Arthur Boyd. Known as ‘Bundanon,’ the homestead was constructed in 1866 and was donated by Boyd to the government in 1993. For a fee, guided tours around the property are offered during Sundays.

The city is located a short drive to the coast and there are tour companies that offer fishing and diving trips to interested individuals.

And while in the coast, the Comerong Island is another interesting place to visit. The island was created when convicts were made to dig a canal during the late 19th century. In present times, the island has been declared a wildlife reserve and is ideal for bird watching.

Along Moss Vale Road, in Bomaderry, is Tandem Skydive, which offers skydiving lessons to those with more adventurous dispositions.

South-west of Nowra is the HMAS Albatross naval airbase that also features The Australian Naval Aviation Museum. The museum showcases items related to the history of naval aviation and houses collections of vintage aircrafts, engines, weapons, and aviation equipment.

On Mopoke Close is the Mopoke Ridge Wines, a picturesque vineyard situated along the Shoalhaven River, which provides a scenic backdrop for wine tasting sessions.