BOMBALA Bombala has a coastal ring, but the town is inland on the Monaro highway that joins Cann River (Vic) and Canberra. Bombala may also be visited when doing the south coastal region of NSW. Bombala has had a rich Merino growing past, that sadly has passed, and the town being isolated has suffered and is still today doing it tough. There is really no reason to visit. The name derives from an Aboriginal word meaning "Meeting of the waters". The town lies on the banks of the Bombala River. Bombala was proposed in 1903 by King O'Malley as the site of the parliamentary seat of Australia. It was considered as a location because it was half way between the two cities of Sydney and Melbourne. The proposal was ultimately rejected in favour of Canberra. The railway reached Bombala in 1921 and closed in 1986 Principal industries of the area include grazing and timber. Tourism is also growing in importance to the local economy. There is also a small amount of specialty producers with meat rabbits, lavender and many herbs being grown in the district... The timber industry has slowly begun to overtake many of the historic properties surrounding Bombala, such as the over 150 year old property of Aston, 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) south-west of the township. The area is known for possibly the largest population of Platypus in New South Wales and is promoted as Platypus Country. Bombala is rich in heritage and a number of older buildings are classic for the age. The Bombala Picture theatre being a gem. And currently for sale. The Bombala churches are all surviving 100 year plus buildings. The Catholic being the biggest. Bombala had a number of pubs. The buildings all being over 100 years old. The Bombala War Memorial is located town central and can’t be missed. The Museum is located at the northern approaches to the town. Bombala is a nice small town, but is remote from mainstream travel. Be prepared for a multi hour diversion when visiting.