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Kiama

New South Wales

KIAMA.TOWN

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Kiama Local History

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Kiama is a coastal town located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Australia. Its name originated from the Aboriginal word 'kiaram' meaning 'place where the sea makes a noise' which aptly describes the town's natural beauty and surroundings.

The first documented European to visit the area was George Bass, a British explorer who came across the region while he was voyaging along the NSW South Coast in 1797. The discovery of coal in the Illawarra region and the establishment of the Cedar Getters camp at Jamberoo in 1815 marked the beginning of European settlement in the area.

The Kiama Lighthouse, which is now one of the top tourist attractions of the town, was constructed in 1887 and replaced the original lighthouse, constructed in 1860. The lighthouse was built to warn passing ships of the treacherous coastline and the hazards of the rocky outcrops.

Historical sites in Kiama include the Kiama Blowhole, a natural geologic formation where seawater is pushed upwards and released through a small hole in the rocks, generating loud whistling sounds that can be heard from several kilometers away. The Blowhole has been a popular destination for tourists since the 19th century.

Kiama is also renowned for its agricultural industry, particularly dairy farming and beef production. The Kiama Show, which takes place every year during January, celebrates the town's rural heritage and showcases local produce, livestock and crafts to visitors from around the region.

During World War II, there was a heightened presence of defense forces in Kiama, with the town serving as a strategic point for protecting the coastline. The old tower at Cathedral Rocks was used as a lookout post and control center for the anti-aircraft guns stationed in the area.

The Kiama District Historical Society was formed in 1966 and has since played a significant role in preserving and promoting the history of the town. The Society operates the Kiama Museum and conducts regular tours of the historic sites and places of interest in the area.

Today, Kiama is a thriving tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its beautiful beaches, picturesque countryside, and charming local culture. The town's history is an integral part of its identity, and its people take pride in preserving the traditions and stories that make Kiama such a unique place.


Is the above information accurate? Please help us. We welcome Local Historical Groups in Kiama to post your historical photos and list your organisation in Kiama Community Directory Historical Societies For Local Community Groups, Clubs, No Profit Community Associations, Basic Directory Listings here are Free, and that includes posting your promotional videos and content onto KIAMA.TOWN So what is the catch? None at all. Upgrading your account to "Community Leader" that then sends our visitors to your organisation and switches on heaps of promotional features is just $2 per month and you can list in multiple towns and cities and if that is still just too much to pay to support us and what our family has built here for you let us know we will make it FREE. How? Simply click LOGIN

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Kiama NSW (m) thanks to Martin Kraft