Bombala

Bombala River

Tucked in the southeast corner of NSW, this tiny historic town sits on the Bombala River and is renowned for its platypus population.

The platypus lookout at Bombala is the best way to spot these shy mammals

Make sure you plan a visit to platypus country!

Drop in to visit the historic Bombala Lavender House

Bombala's cafe's provide the perfect stop over if you're driving from the mountains to the coast

Welcome to platypus country! To catch a glimpse of these adorable Australian icons, head to the Bombala Platypus Reserve early morning or late afternoon. Pack a picnic and enjoy the quiet and pretty reserve which offers a viewing platform for platypus spotting, as well as bird hides to watch the abundant wildlife, and picnic facilities. Or take a leisurely stroll along the 2.2km River Walk whilst keeping an eye out for platypus.

Pick up a ‘Walk Back in Time in Bombala’ brochure from the Platypus Country Visitor Information Centre and explore Bombala’s fascinating heritage and historic buildings, including the 1930s Olympia Theatre, the Bombala Railway Station and Court House.

For a fantastic family day out, you can’t go past a traditional country show. The Bombala Show is held in March and highlights the region’s produce, sheep dog trials, show jumping, fun rides and more.

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Bombala

Located 80 kilometres south of Cooma between the mountains and the South Coast, Bombala was settled in the 1840s for its rich grazing pastures. It is now known for its fine wool, beef cattle, timber and lavender production. Bombala offers many outdoor activities and is a popular location for trout fly-fishing, mountain biking and bushwalking. Visit the Platypus Reserve and spot resident platypus in the streams, or explore the Bondi State Forest and its mountain bike trails. The South East Forest National Park is 20 kilometres from Bombala and provides access to scenic drives, great picnic areas, camping, lookouts, bushwalks and native flora and fauna. The area produces local lavender products, including loose leaf lavender, soaps and oils.

Bombala Visitors Centre

The Bombala Visitors Centre, located in Railway Park next to the Lavender House, offers information about the surrounding areas of Bombala and Delegate and local souvenirs and products for sale. The staff will be able to give you directions to wonderful lookouts, relaxing walks and the best spots for platypus sightings.

Bombala Caravan Park

The Bombala Caravan Park is located beside the beautiful Bombala River, and just a short distance from Bombala's main street making its location perfect as a base to explore the majestic South East Forests, the sparkling Sapphire Coast and the high country of Australia. Keep an eye out for the platypus that frequent the river. On site accommodation also available.

Bombala Historic Engine and Machinery Shed

The Historic Engine and Machinery Society has restored a vast number of engines and farming implements from around the district. The Shed is a must for those with an interest in the history of the area and engines in particular. Every two years the Society conducts a large Engine Rally with all the equipment on display.

Bombala Historic Railway

Bombala Historic Railway opened in 1921. It is a precast concrete building with a tin goods shed. The goods shed houses a small museum and lavender distilling plant. It also has a turntable and weighbridge. The precinct is 900 metres long. The line is known as the Goulburn Bombala line with Bombala the end of the line. The station and information structure is almost complete. A well maintained precinct ground with easy access to all parts of the station . Set in a regional setting on the southern end of the Southern Tablelands NSW in the Monaro Region.

Bombala Platypus Reserve

Due to the high numbers of platypus found in their pristine rivers and streams, the Bombala region is known as Platypus Country. The Platypus Reserve is located 4.2 kilometres from Bombala on the Delegate Road and is ideal for seeing a platypus. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to see them. Look for a V shape in the water. The raised platform makes viewing easy for all age groups. Platypus can stay underwater for up to 14 minutes, but more commonly, they will only remain under for between 60 to 90 seconds, so be patient and quiet when viewing this national treasure. The on-site information boards provide you with comprehensive details about the platypus, and the newly installed walkways will make your exploring more enjoyable. The reserve is a great spot to sit and enjoy lunch or simply soak up the peace and quiet. Picnic tables are provided, and there are two bird hides to allow you to really experience the birdlife.

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Bombala

Explore Bombala

Bombala

Bombala Visitors Centre

Bombala Caravan Park

Bombala Historic Engine and Machinery Shed

Bombala Historic Railway

Bombala Platypus Reserve

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