Pambula between wetlands and local history

If you are considering Pambula as a destination for a stay, two perspectives stand out: the wetlands of Panboola Wetlands and the local history reflected in its buildings, a guided walking tour and a memorial site. The wetlands lie in the heart of the historic village and cover 77 hectares of managed and protected landscape. When choosing a destination for your stay, you can consider whether you are most interested in wetland landscapes or historic places.

Panboola Wetlands and their landscape

Panboola Wetlands include freshwater billabongs, salt marshes and grasslands, and are also rich in birdlife. Their diversity comes from the combination of different wetland landscapes and defines the character of the 77-hectare conservation area. The site also includes Pambula’s former racetrack. Along its southwestern boundary, the wetlands border Beowa National Park. The former racetrack adds a layer of past use to the nature-focused experience; at the southwestern edge, Beowa National Park directly adjoins the wetlands.

The Ephemeral Festival in Panboola Wetlands is a biennial celebration of art, creativity and nature. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the festival dates and program in advance.

Pambula’s historic places

The Pambula Village History Trail is a guided walking tour through Pambula that highlights historic sites. This presents local history across several historic sites rather than focusing on a single building. Pambula Courthouse is the town’s oldest surviving public building. It houses a historical exhibition on police and judicial history, as well as other special exhibitions. Exhibition content may change; if you are planning a visit, check the current content and access arrangements in advance. While the festival’s biennial dates are relevant to planning, the Pambula Village History Trail is a guided walking tour of historic sites in Pambula.

Other buildings also offer distinct historical perspectives. J.D.'s Building was built in 1914 for the Australian Bank of Commerce. Covington’s Residence in Pambula is recognised for its outstanding heritage significance. Christ Anglican Church in Pambula is one of the oldest Anglican church centres in the Diocese of Goulburn. These landmarks have different areas of significance: architectural history, heritage value and church history.

Pambula War Memorial adds a memorial site to these perspectives. It records the names of 170 local people who served in conflicts, including the First and Second World Wars, as well as Korea, Malaya and Vietnam. Alongside the buildings, the memorial focuses attention on the named role of local people in several conflicts.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Kiah, Cobargo, Pambula Beach, Brogo, Merimbula, Mirador, Bermagui, Tanja.

For the broader travel overview: Bega Valley Shire Council.