TATHRA Tathra is a small coastal town just north of Merimbula, and a little south of Bega. This is a pretty coastal spot that requires care when driving the descent  into town from the south. Tathra is also a popular holiday destination that has a great surf beach. Tathra may mean "beautiful country" or "place of wild cats" in a local aboriginal dialect.  The Tathra area was first settled by Europeans in the 1820s and 1830s, although it was outside the limits of legal settlement. Nearby points of interest are the Old Tathra Wharf and the Mimosa Rocks National Park that begins at the northern end of Tathra Beach and runs north for about 16km. It has five access roads from the Tathra-Bermagui main road. Bournda National Park starts at Kianinny Bay, at the southern end of Tathra, and runs south for about 13km. There is a good walking track, near the coast, along most of its length. In Tathra's seaside Memorial Gardens, a plaque commemorates the bicentenary of a tragic trek by survivors of a shipwreck. The Maritime Museum at the wharf is a good visit. Try and time the visit with the opening hours. The Wharf itself is impressive and the War Memorial is located on the southern entry to the town. Tathra is serviced with the Catholic and United denominations. The Tathra Hotel has a great position overlooking both the sea and the township. When travelling the coastal route be sure to visit this nice, but small town and refreshment at the pub will be easy. Heritage diary