Culcairn is one of those truly great country towns, featuring picturesque parks and tree-lined streets. Culcairn has a rich history – in fact half the buildings in the main shopping area are classified by the National Trust Culcairn once known as the oasis of the Riverina because of its unlimited underground water supply, was established because of the 1880 extension of the railway from Wagga Wagga to Albury. The authentically restored Stationmasters residence and the Culcairn Hotel reflect the railway expansion in NSW at that time. The Culcairn Hotel was built in 1891, and for many years was the largest hotel between Melbourne and Sydney. At one stage, the hotel had over 70 rooms. Trains travelling between Melbourne and Sydney stopped at Culcairn, and passengers would enjoy a good night’s sleep at the Hotel before hopping back on the train the next morning. These days, the Culcairn Hotel is a magnificent old-style building, offering modern facilities as well as home-style accommodation. The gardens at the back of the building are very pleasant – be sure to take a look. Enjoy family fun and education at a commercial Yabby Farm with an air-conditioned Visitors Centre, displays, aquariums and a shop area. Yabby products and souvenirs are available, as well as refreshments. A covered courtyard, lawns and BBQ provide excellent picnic facilities. Guided Pond Walks can be arranged. Turn off Olympic Way 1.5km South of Culcairn for a 4km drive along Walla Road to Premier Yabbies. And here’s an interesting piece of trivia: Culcairn is the home town of equestrian Andrew Hoy who has represented Australia at 5 Olympic Games winning gold medals in the Equestrian Three Day Teams Event at Barcelona, Atlanta and Sydney as well as a silver medal in the individual Three Day Event in Sydney. Andrew was also honoured by being chosen as flag bearer at the opening ceremony of the Atlanta Olympics.
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