Jerilderie

Jerilderie, a small town in the Riverina region of New South Wales, is steeped in Australian folklore as the site of the Jerilderie Letter, a famous document dictated by bushranger Ned Kelly. This quiet agricultural hub offers a glimpse into the nation's colonial past, with a charming main street and a strong sense of community. For travellers exploring the Hume Highway or the Murrumbidgee River region, Jerilderie makes for a worthwhile stop to soak up history and country hospitality.

Highlights & What to See

• Jerilderie Letter Memorial – A striking bronze statue and interpretive panels in the town centre commemorate Ned Kelly's 1879 visit and the famous letter he dictated here.
• Jerilderie Court House Museum – Housed in the original 1880s courthouse, this small museum displays local history, including the Kelly story and pioneer artefacts.
• Heritage Walk – Follow the self-guided walk past historic buildings like the Royal Hotel (where Kelly stayed) and the post office, all with informative plaques.
• Lake Jerilderie – A peaceful spot for a picnic or a stroll along the shore; birdlife is abundant, especially waterfowl.
• Jerilderie Railway Station – A classic country station building from the late 19th century, now a private residence but worth a photo from the street.

Suggested Time to Spend

Jerilderie is a quick stop – allow 1–2 hours to see the main sights. Start at the Jerilderie Letter Memorial, then wander the heritage walk and pop into the museum if it's open. If you have more time, a picnic at Lake Jerilderie is a pleasant way to stretch your legs. The town is best visited as a lunch break or overnight pause on a longer drive between Melbourne and Sydney.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Deniliquin – 45 minutes west, this larger town offers the Deniliquin Ute Muster (October) and the Peppin Heritage Centre.
• Finley – 30 minutes north, with a lovely main street and the Finley Pioneer Museum.
• Berrigan – 25 minutes south, a quaint village on the Murray River with good fishing and camping spots.
• Tocumwal – 45 minutes south-west, known for its historic railway bridge and the Big Murray Cod statue.
• Corowa – 1 hour south-east, famous for its federation history and wineries in the Rutherglen region.

Please check official sources for current details.