Back of Bourke

'Back O' Bourke' The Gateway to the Real Outback

The Back of Bourke is more than a geographic location, it's part of the Australian language, part of its folklore
That may be what provoked author Henry Lawson to write after his visit in 1892
"If you know Bourke, you know Australia"

This new world class centre showcases the history of western NSW & Bourke.
It focuses on the people & landscape that have not only contributed to the life of Bourke but also the history of Australia.

The centre describes itself as "a billobong 500 years long",
 because it tells the story of the Darling river

 

 

Darling river at the old port wharf

 

 

 

Underneath the old wharf

 

 

Testing the water!!!! 

 

 

Stairs down to the river under wharf

 

Crossley  engine (1923) used to pumped water & power
They fire it up Mon- Friday @ 12 noon

Located on the wharf area is a fully restored 1923 vintage Crossley oil fuelled stationary engine

Old London bank 1888 (now a B & B )

Main drag

Heritage bridge