Tenterfield Area, New South Wales

Known as The Birthplace of Our Nation – Sir Henry Parkes’ vision of a united Australia was presented in his famous Federation Speech at the Tenterfield School of Arts on 24th October 1889. This led to the federation of all Australian states into the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901.

Tenterfield retains its place as one of the country’s most historically significant settlements, through preservation of many landmark buildings and sites, such as the Railway Station, Police Station and Gaol, The Tenterfield Saddlery, Deloraine, Stannum House, Stretford House, St Stephens Church (Banjo Patterson married here in 1903) and Major JF Thomas’ grave (local solicitor who defended “The Breaker” Morant)

Impressive colonial architecture combined with magnificent natural features (including Bald Rock and Boonoo Boonoo Falls National Parks) panoramic landscapes, four definite seasons - autumn being the most striking in New England - all create a backdrop for the living history book that is Tenterfield.

Add the mystique of Aboriginal lore, bushrangers, New England vineyards and cuisine, historic villages and the picture takes on a depth that will have you wanting to return.