Fast facts
- Known for the annual spectacle of the Running of the Sheep
- Set in fertile tablelands north of Canberra
- 321 km south-west of Sydney, population 2,450
Why go there
Boorowa is a peaceful country town scattered with buildings of historical interest. Its colourful Irish heritage is celebrated during the town's flagship event – the Irish Woolfest.
History
The largest Aboriginal language group in New South Wales, the Wiradjuri, originally inhabited the local area. The name Boorowa is said to be an Aboriginal word for a native bird, possibly a bush turkey. The first wave of settlers in the area were "squatters" and Irish ex-convicts. The Irish population grew during the 1840s and 1850s, during the Potato Famine, when many Irish fled their own country.
Wool and wheat were the foundation stones of the town's economy and remain so today.
Things to do
- Follow the Shamrock Trail map and discover Boorowa’s history and heritage buildings.
- Take a leisurely drive around the countryside towards Young and discover interesting villages, orchards and boutique wineries.
- Stay a while and enjoy a pub lunch. Extend your visit and bed down at a local hotel or B&B.
Events
- The Irish Woolfest in October celebrates the town's heritage. The big drawcard is the Running of the Sheep (Boorowa's answer to Spain's Running of the Bulls). There's also a street parade, Irish singers and dancers, pipe bands and hot air ballooning.
Don’t miss
- The stained glass windows at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church.
- Viewing endangered native bird species at the local aviary.
- A picnic on the shores of nearby Wyangala Dam.
- Wandering around the arts and crafts stores and local galleries.
- A weekend visit to the Boorowa Historical Museum.
