EDEN Eden is the first NSW town (or last) encounted when heading north to Sydney (Melbourne). Crossing the Vic/NSW border is an anti-climax, so making for Eden is the objective. Eden is a very pretty coast harbour, and although Eden is not large, and is in truth a long way from a capitol city, has much going for it. From a yachting perspective Eden is seen as a safe harbour.The eastern coastline has rugged cliffs at the southern end and a wide, sandy surf beach, Aslings Beach, north of the cliffs. Eden was named after George Eden, 1st Earl of Auckland, the British Secretary for the Colonies, Baron Auckland, whose family name was Eden. After the town plan was finalised the first blocks were auctioned on the 9th March, 1843. Although the urban settlement of Eden commenced in 1843 the settlement was not officially proclaimed as a township until 20 March 1885. The town’s main industries include fishing, forestry, and tourism. The first whaling station, for shore whaling, was established in the area by John Raine in 1828. Whaling declined in the 1920s and ended in 1930. The Whaling Museum is a must visit. Lots to learn here. What is not generally known because Eden is equidistant between Sydney, Melbourne and Tasmania, the port town was considered as a location for the Australian capital following Australian Federation in 1901. However, the ‘Limestone Plains’ in Southern New South Wales were chosen instead as the location of the new city of Canberra. Knowing Canberra and knowing Eden in hindsight a mistake. Eden has early history, but not many buildings have survived. But that said lookouts and other monuments retain interest. The Catholic Church is modern, but the Anglican and United 100 plus. Be sure to visit the Mary Mackillop museum. There are only the two remaining hotels; one of which is currently in hibernation. The Eden War Memorial overlooks Asling's Beach. Eden is great little port town with much to do and see so an overnight or longer is essential