Last night there were interesting cloud formations around Tamworth, and this morning it was very humid, which is unusual as Tamworth is known for having dry heat. We completed our packing and drove out of Tamworth. Our first stop was Uralla for coffees.
There was little traffic along the New England Hwy, and we were not held up at any of the active roadworks. Our only traffic issue was a slow-moving car doing 60 kph in a 100 kph zone. This is dangerous so we were pleased to finally be able to overtake.
We set up in the Stanthorpe caravan park, and then I drove down town to walk along Quart Pot Creek and to view heritage buildings. Anita opted to keep the critters company in the van. A lot of water is flowing in the creek.
Stanthorpe has some interesting murals. A laneway has a timber arbour covered with grape vines, with murals covering the walls of buildings on each side of the lane.
This clever Gone with the Wind artwork is outside the public toilets. Unfortunately there is graffiti on the portrait of Clark Gable on the Gents toilets.
My favourite is the Italian village mural at the piazza. This is a very detailed mural completed in 2019 by three artists in collaboration with the owners of the building.
There are several heritage listed buildings in Stanthorpe. Many date from the early 1900s, such as the decorative Central Hotel.
The Commercial Hotel is no longer trading and is for sale at $2.5 million. Part of the building is currently being used as a cafe.
Across the road is the impressive 1911 post office with a clock tower
Almost every shop along the main street in Stanthorpe is occupied. The Stanthorpe Plaza is occupied by Woolworths and a liquor store, but the other shops are vacant. There is an Aldi and a large IGA behind the main street, and plenty of parking. Tourism is a growing industry in this attractive town.
Back at camp I walked Tilly and Bluey. Each one visited the gay men on the next site who are enjoying their brand new motorhome.
Committed Travellers 