Lake Cargelligo NSW
Lake Cargelligo NSW
Lake Cargelligo in NSW is an unexpected oasis for first time visitors. The awesome lake at the end of the main street is picture perfect. It is an ever changing canvas, reflecting the timelessness of an ancient Dreamtime past, alongside a resilient, modern, farming community. Picturesque parks and modern amenities, a small but well serviced town, friendly locals and Mother Nature at her best all around you, what’s not to love?
Whether it be water and Jet skiing or wake boarding; some laid back sailing and kayaking; or simply taking a dip in the cool calm water, Lake Cargelligo will float your boat! The nearby Lachlan River and Lake Cargelligo Lakes and Wetlands, with renowned fishing spots for Cod, Yellow Belly, Silver Perch and Redfin, are a mecca for fishing enthusiasts.
Lake Cargelligo name is derived from the Wiradjury word “Cudjallagong” meaning “large lake” or “water container”.
The History of Lake Cargelligo NSW
Lake Cargelligo’s history is interwoven with Indigenous culture, Explorers, European squatters and settlers, miners with a wanderlust for Gold, and the coming of the railways and closer settlement. The local historical society maintains a wonderful collection of local history at the Museum, and host regular open days.
This town has an interesting and thriving indigenous culture, with a mix of Wiradjurii, Nymmpaa and Barkantji people. The Explorer’s Oxley, Evans and Cunningham passed through the district in 1817, naming the Lake, “Regent’s Lake”. Nineteen years later, Major Mitchell referred to it by the Indigenous word, “Cudgallagong”, and despite a few changes to the spelling, the towns’ name still bears witness to its original inhabitants.
Early History
The explorers, John Oxley and George Evans, followed the Lachlan River down to Lake Cargelligo in 1817. Lake Cargelligo was known as Cudgelligo (or sometimes Cudgellico) in the 1800s and was officially changed when the railway arrived in 1917.
Later Growth
The railway from Cootamundra to Wyalong was extended to Lake Cargelligo in 1917. The railway station opened as ‘Cargelligo’ in 1917 and was renamed ‘Lake Cargelligo’ in 1919. Rail-motor passenger services operated to the town until 1983. Since then the railway link has been used for cargo transport, especially for bulk grain which the surrounding farms cultivate. It also has a strong World War I background and ANZAC heritage.
Bird Watching
Pelicans at Lake Cargelligo – Photo by Rebecca Van Dyk
Bird Watching draws “Twitchers” from far and wide. With part of the Lake now a Bird Sanctuary, two accessible Bird Hides, and the close proximity to the Round Hill and Nombinne Nature Reserves, there are ample opportunities to catch a glimpse and snap a pic of a variety of rare and threatened species. Binoculars and Bird guides can be hired from The Lake Cargelligo Tourist Information Centre.
Get Directions
Lake Cargelligo New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
TodayClosed Now!09:00 - 17:00- Saturday09:00 - 17:00
- Sunday09:00 - 17:00
- Monday09:00 - 17:00
- Tuesday09:00 - 17:00
- Wednesday09:00 - 17:00
- Thursday09:00 - 17:00
- Friday09:00 - 17:00
Contact with business owner
Your request has been submitted successfully.