Tilpa – country NSW
Tilpa is a tiny town in outback New South Wales with a population of just 9. It’s far away from any major capital city, 10 hours from Sydney and Melbourne. The locals live on huge cattle stations that stretch for hundreds of kilometres. The people work hard with the dusty, dry earth their family have passed down through generations.
The Tilpa Pub, an original from days gone by, sits on the banks of the Darling River. The walls are covered in black marker; messages that mark the memories of many. It is the thoughts of strangers which lights up the Pub. For two dollars, thoughts become timeless, and the Royal Australian Flying Doctors Service is supported.
The pub sells most things, including fuel and a hearty meal. Although occasionally a shortage of fuel can leave visitors stranded for a few hours. It’s never a long wait, with a local volunteering to help out, or the fuel truck arriving ‘just a bit late’. Outside the pub, a tiny airstrip runs alongside the Community Centre. A monthly visit from the doctor caters to the health of the locals, young and old.
The area was once known for its cotton farming, where the riverboats would pass by the farms, taking cotton to the major towns. It’s hard to imagine, given now, years later, the river is drying up, leaving farmers desperate for water.
Tilpa held a fundraising concert in 2005 for the Royal Australian Flying Doctors Service. The town population swelled to 2000 for the night. The sounds of many music stars including well known country music legend Lee Kernagan could be heard many kilometres away.
Tilpa is a genuinely warm and inviting town. Many of the local properties offer boutique and unique accommodation. The locals are friendly and a bush cuppa will be made with a smile.
Article written by Carla Clark.
Tags: carla clark, country nsw, Tilpa, tilpa country nsw, tilpa nsw
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