In the Bellingen region of New South Wales, visitors can explore three fascinating museums that showcase the area's rich and diverse heritage. These museums are the Bellingen Museum, Dorrigo Museum, and Urunga Museum. Each of these institutions is dedicated to preserving and displaying the Aboriginal and European history of their respective regions, as well as chronicling the unique settlement and life stories of their local communities.
The Bellingen Museum, part of the Bellinger Valley Historical Society, is home to a vast collection of objects, photos, paintings, and models that depict the early settlement and life in the Bellingen and Urunga areas. This museum also highlights the maritime history of Urunga, formerly known as Bellinger Heads. The Society's collection includes documents, family history, articles, newspapers, photographs, maps, paintings, books, and artifacts, some of which date back to pre-European settlement. The Bellingen Museum is a great source of records and information for those interested in the history of the area and is staffed by dedicated volunteers.
The Dorrigo and Guy Fawkes Historical Museum features a collection that displays historical and contemporary aspects of the region. This museum, like the others in the region, is focused on preserving the history and heritage of its community. The Urunga Museum, also part of the Bellinger Valley Historical Society, shares a similar mission to the Bellingen Museum, showcasing the Aboriginal and European history of the Bellinger Valley. Both museums offer visitors a chance to learn about the region's past and appreciate the efforts of the local communities to keep their history alive. In addition to their exhibits, these museums often host special events and programs, providing visitors with an immersive experience that brings the region's history to life.