Goolgowi

Situated at the crossroads of the Mid Western Highway and Kidman Way, the village of Goolgowi was settled in 1925, following the development of the railway line between Griffith and Hillston. Located in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, Goolgowi is essentially a wheat farming and grazing area; however in the past decade the industry has diversified to include olives, walnuts, grapes, lettuce and a prime cattle feedlot. Today the village is a popular stopping place for travellers, and includes two motels, a caravan park, Ex-Servicemen's Club, general store, hotel, service station, NRMA/mechanic, and primary school. Sport is an important part of the community and Goolgowi has a nine-hole golf course, a twenty five metre, solar heated swimming pool, and recreation ground including football oval, cricket oval and tennis courts. Goolgowi is home to the Carrathool Shire Council headquarters. The soft sculpture curtain, created by a number of local women in 1988, commemorates Goolgowi's pioneers and history, and depicts the various aspects of the settlement, and development of the district. The sculpture, located at the Goolgowi Hall, can be viewed by contacting the Carrathool Shire Council Office in Goolgowi. Follow the heritage trail around the village to discover the history of Goolgowi. Located outside the Carrathool Shire Council Office are five panels, installed to celebrate the Council's Centenary in 2006. Each of the panels is dedicated to one of the five towns and villages within the Carrathool Shire. Take time to admire the award winning gardens at the Goolgowi Public School, developed by the community over the past twenty years. The garden includes both natives and exotics, and has a low allergy section. The local community take pride in their village and this is reflected in the wonderful gardens of local residents. Take a break at Pioneers Park, with toilets, a free electric barbecue and children's playground to help break up your trip. Did You Know? Famous horse trainer Tommy 'TJ' Smith was raised in Goolgowi, where his parents owned the local butchers store. The shop still stands today but is unused.