Manning Valley Local History
The Manning Valley is a region located in the mid-north coast of New South Wales, Australia. The region is located about three and a half hours north of Sydney and several coastal towns dotting the coastline.
The area is known for its rich and unique history that has evolved over the years. The area was initially inhabited by the indigenous Biripi people who were hunter-gatherers. The Biripi people have a highly sophisticated culture that is historically and culturally significant to the Manning Valley.
European contact in the area began in the early 1800s. John Oxley, a surveyor, and explorer arrived in the region in 1818 and documented his exploration of the Manning River. As a result, the region became known as the Manning River district.
In the early 1830s, the first Europeans in the area began to settle, and the town of Wingham was established. The Manning River was the key means of transportation for goods and people into the district, and the construction of roads was severely delayed. Therefore, river transport became the primary means of moving people and goods into the area.
In 1865, the railway arrived in the area, and this brought about some dramatic social and economic changes. Farmers and producers were now able to transport their goods more quickly and cheaply, meaning they could sell more products and earn more money. However, the railway also brought about some negative impacts such as the decline of river transport and the associated industries.
During the early 1900s, the Manning River district was divided into several small local government areas, with Wingham and Taree being the two main towns. Wingham developed rapidly, while Taree saw slower growth due to its location on poor soil. Nonetheless, Taree remained the primary centre for business and government.
In the 20th century, the region began to grow as a popular holiday destination due to its stunning coastlines and pristine beaches. Surfing became a popular pastime, and the region became known for its excellent surf breaks. The area also had excellent fishing opportunities, and this drew in recreational fishers and commercial fishing boats.
Today, the Manning Valley is a thriving regional centre with a diverse population of approximately 50,000 people. Agriculture and tourism are the key industries in the area, with a focus on dairy, beef, and sugar cane farming. The region is also renowned for its natural beauty and scenic landscape.
In summary, the Manning Valley has a rich and unique history that has shaped the region into what it is today. From the early indigenous culture to the arrival of European explorers, the construction of railways, and the growth of agriculture and tourism, the region has a diverse and fascinating past that is still celebrated today.