Evans Head

Local History of Evans Head, New South Wales

Evans Head is a coastal town located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. The town is situated on the banks of the Evans River and is surrounded by national parks and marine reserves. The town has a rich history, which dates back to the traditional owners of the land, the Bundjalung people.

Indigenous History

The Bundjalung people have lived in the area for thousands of years, and their culture and traditions are still visible around Evans Head today. The traditional owners of the land have used the area for fishing, hunting and gathering for generations, and they have a deep connection to the land and the sea.

The Bundjalung people believe that the area around Evans Head is sacred, and that it was created by the Rainbow Serpent. Their stories and traditions are an integral part of the town's history, and they are still passed down from generation to generation today.

European Settlement

The first Europeans to visit Evans Head were Captain Cook and his crew, who sailed past the town in 1770. However, it wasn't until the 1840s that Europeans began to settle in the area.

The first European to live in Evans Head was a man named George Evans. He arrived in the town in 1862 and established a farm along the banks of the Evans River. Other pioneers followed, and by the late 1800s, there was a small community of farmers and fishermen living in the area.

The town grew slowly over the next few decades, and by the 1920s, it had become a popular holiday destination. The town's stunning beaches and natural beauty attracted tourists from all over Australia, and a number of guesthouses and hotels were built in the area.

World War II

During World War II, Evans Head played an important role in Australia's defence strategy. The town was home to a large airbase, which was used to train pilots for the Royal Australian Air Force. Thousands of young men trained at the base, and many of them went on to fight in the war.

The airbase was also used to test new aircraft, and a number of experimental planes were flown from Evans Head during the war. Today, the airbase is a museum, and visitors can learn about the town's military history and the role it played in Australia's defence.

Modern Evans Head

Today, Evans Head is a thriving coastal town, which is home to around 3,000 people. The town's economy is driven by tourism, and visitors come from all over Australia to enjoy the area's stunning beaches, national parks and wildlife.

The town's rich history is still visible today, and visitors can explore the local museums and historical sites to learn more about the area's Indigenous and European heritage.

Evans Head is a unique and beautiful town, which has a rich history that is still celebrated by its residents and visitors today.