Nundle, New South Wales

Nundle New South Wales
Nundle valley from the Hanging Rock lookout
Nundle
Coordinates	31°28′S 151°08′E / 31.467°S 151.133°E / -31.467; 151.133Coordinates: 31°28′S 151°08′E / 31.467°S 151.133°E / -31.467; 151.133
Population	289 (2006 census)
Established	1885
Postcode(s)	2340
Elevation	609 m (1,998 ft)
LGA(s)	Tamworth Regional Council
County	Parry
State electorate(s)	Tamworth,
Federal Division(s)	New England

Nundle is a village in the New England region of New South Wales, Australia. It was formerly the centre of Nundle Shire local government area, but most of this area, including the village of Nundle, was absorbed into Tamworth Regional Council in 2004. The village is 400 km north of Sydney and about 56 km south east of Tamworth past Chaffey Dam via a good sealed road. In the 2006 census Nundle had a population of 289. Nundle is located at the southern end of Fossickers Way.

Nundle was established at the foot of the Great Dividing Range when gold was discovered at "The Hanging Rock" and nearby Swamp Creek in 1852. By June 1852 there were 300 diggers on the fields at Oakenville Creek. Prospectors from California, Europe and China were also digging along the Peel River and up the mountain slopes. By 1865 the population was around 500 with about 50 businesses in operation. A public school was completed during December, 1871 and lessons commenced there in 1872. Nundle was declared a town in 1885. In 1924 the Peel River Bridge was constructed and in 1941 electricity was connected to the town. During 1966 the swimming pool was opened by the Rt Hon. Ian Sinclair. The population of Nundle Shire was 1350 in 1969. In 1979 Premier Neville Wran opened the newly completed Chaffey Dam. Sheep, cattle and timber are the economic mainstays of this village nowadays.

This is a scenic village, with historic buildings, the Nundle Woollen Mill, old Court House, Peel Inn and Primitive Methodist Church which are a few examples of existing 19th century architecture there. Nundle Courthouse (former) and Police Station have been placed on the Register of the National Estate. Nundle is noted as one of the best areas in the State for crystals. Some gold and other precious stones to be found include zircons, green jasper, sapphires and serpentine minerals. Nundle is a popular tourist destination for both casual travellers and motorcycle enthusiasts. Nearby is the interesting Hanging Rock mining village with good views of the Nundle valley.