Ulmarra

A visit to Ulmarra is like stepping back in time as the village remains one of the finest examples of a 19th Century river port in Australia. The entire village is classified by the National Trust. The lattice work and colonial style of the Commercial Hotel attracts considerable comment as it nestles on the banks of the Clarence River. The hotel and village were used as the location for the T.V mini-series 'Fields of Fire' - a story based on life in a 1929 Queensland sugar cane town. Scenes for the film 'The Picture Show Man' were also shot here. Little wonder that this community is keen to develop the village as a town of living history with 'crafty' businesses occupying the lovely old commercial centre and with the hotel, a great coffee lounge, beautifully renovated apartments and three delightful and cosy bed and breakfasts Ulmarra is a great place to visit or stay. Ulmarra is a haven for lovers of arts and crafts and antiques with many excellent shops with a wide variety to choose from. The locals have no shortage of artistic talent and this is on display in the many art and craft shops. The Coldstream Gallery has a different exhibition on every month showcasing the artistic skills and vision of some of the Valley's and the regions artisans. Ulmarra has the greatest concentration of antique shops in the entire Clarence Valley and is an absolute must for those interested in picking up a slice of history for themselves. In the nearby village of Tucabia is a private museum that is a real historical attraction with vintage tractors and farm machinery, old style buildings and a fascinating range of rural memorabilia. The Ulmarra ferry If you would like an unique experience (at least these days) then hop in your car and take a ride on the Ulmarra to Southgate Ferry. At one time 19 vehicular ferries crossed various sections of the Clarence River to link local communities. One of the area's two remaining ferries links Ulmarra to Southgate. This wide river crossing is a pleasant experience, just 1 kilometre out of town north along the Highway. It is not recommended for cars with caravans. Operating Times: 6.00am - 7.45am; 8.30am - 11.45am; 12.30pm - 5.45pm; 6.30pm - 11.00pm. The ferry stops for maintenance each Sunday 6.00am - 8.00am plus the first Wednesday of each month 9.30am - 11.30am.