Fast facts
- Headquarters of the railway system in southern NSW/li>
- Quaint rural town set between rolling hills and the Murrumbidgee River
- 480 km south-west of Sydney, population 5,000
Why go there
This pretty railway town is a feast for the eyes with its awnings, verandahs, wide streets and eccentric old-style architecture featuring stuccoed facades and decorative roof parapets.
History
The township developed on either side of the Sydney–Melbourne railway line, which reached the town in 1878.
During the 1880s, the line's rail repair premises were moved to Junee from Wagga Wagga, increasing local employment opportunities significantly.
In recent times, Junee has become the largest producer of canola in NSW. It is also a centre for wheat, barley and oats.
Things to do
- Wander around town and enjoy the unusual architecture, starting with the Renaissance-style railway station built in 1885.
- Explore the Historical Museum.
- Visit the Living Maze in Endeavour Park.
- Fish, swim or sail at Bethungra Dam, where there are picnic and camping facilities.
- Go birdwatching at the Junee wetlands.
- Round the bend on the Bethungra Rail spiral – a quirky engineering feat.
Don’t miss
- The exhibits of the huge Roundhouse Rail & Transport Museum. The Roundhouse, complete with 33-m turntable and 42 tracks, was the last steam train depot built in NSW.
- Sampling delights at the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory, housed in the historical Junee flour mill. Organic products are available.
- Checking the time with more than 800 clocks at the Illabo Clock Museum.
- Monte Cristo Homestead, the restored Victorian-era homestead, which is reputed to be Australia’s most haunted house.
