TUMBARUMBA & TOOMA
Scroll beyond the links below for town information
Tumbarumba is situated about 140kms, by road, north east of Albury-Wodonga and about 220kms south west of Canberra, on the western slopes of the Snowy Mountains at an altitude of 645 metres. Tooma is about 34kms south of Tumbarumba and is a gorgeous, undulating valley with a country pub and accommodation options. The history of Tumbarumba goes back to the 1850’s when gold was first discovered throughout the region and has a population of around 1500. Nowadays one of the main industries is timber with pine plantations found across the district. ‘Tumba’, as it is affectionately known, has several accommodation options and a good range of retail stores, services and a couple of country pubs. One of the popular annual events is Tumbafest which combines music, local markets, food, wine and entertainment for all ages.
Tooma is a rural community of open spaces and fertile farmland below the Snowy Mountains and is within easy access to Kosciuszko National Park and the landscapes are as dramatic as they are unique. The fishing haven of the mighty Murray River is also only a 10-15 minute drive away from Tooma. Paddys River Falls is about 15kms south of the Tumbarumba, along Tooma Rd and has 2 lookouts close to the parking area and also a track down to the base of the falls. Access to the parking area is via a well maintained gravel road that is suitable for most vehicles. This waterfall runs most of the time, but is more spectacular after rain.
Between Paddys River Falls and Tumbarumba, 9kms south of the town, is the free Henry Angel Campground that offers ample space and shade for campervans, caravans and tents, with toilets and BBQ facilities. The campground is located on the 400km Hume and Hovell Walking Track, which is a track that follows the route of the explorers from their 1824-25 expedition. This is a good base to walk part of the track and learn some of the gold mining history along Burra Creek.
A unique and interesting museum to visit, just 8kms west of Tumbarumba on Wagga Rd, is the Pioneer Women’s Hut. The theme of the museum is to reflect the ingenuity of women in finding solutions to looking after a family in early rural Australia. The museum is open most days from 10-4 and although entry is free, it is run by volunteers who appreciate any donations to assist with maintaining this important link to our past. Contact the Tumbarumba Visitor Information Centre for further details on 02 6948 3333.
