Bicentenary of the Hume and Hovell EXPEDITION 

Do you know the connection between the Gunning and the infamous Hume and Hovell expedition? 

Hume and Hovell officially set off from Hume’s station on Lerida Creek on 17 October 1824. (nearby the current “Collingwood” homestead). Their sixteen-week expedition resulted in many important discoveries, including the Murray River and valuable agricultural and grazing lands between Gunning and Corio Bay in Victoria. Many towns and cities dotted along the Hume Highway owe their heritage to the journey. Hume and Hovell arrived back in Gunning on 18 January 1825. The Hume Highway solemnises large sections of the original route.

There are three memorials in and around Gunning dedicated to the expedition. The original memorial is a column on the Old Hume Highway opposite Walmsley’s Lane, which marks the exact spot where the expedition began. It was unveiled in 1924 on the 100th anniversary of the expedition to great local and state fanfare. There is a second and third memorial in Barbour Park, one of which celebrates the 150th anniversary. Other memorials are displayed in towns along the original track. Though Gunning was the start and finish of the expedition, the Gunning celebrations are understandably the most poignant historical reminder of the epic journey. 

This expedition was a defining moment in Australian history, shaping the understanding of the continent’s geography and laying the foundation for future discoveries and development. It is a testament to the bravery and perseverance of these explorers, and the bicentennial provides a unique opportunity to reflect on their achievements.

There is lots happening to commemorate this important historical milestone. More details to be provided shortly! 

 GUNNING 200 BICENTENARY CELEBRATION

Gunning has turned 200! We celebrated a fabulous weekend on 5-6 March 2022, filled with an array of exciting events. The whole village turned out to help celebrate this important milestone. Click to view the Gunning 200 Celebration Booklet produced to commemorate the event.