National Parks and Reserves

A Southern Highlands wetland sounds unlikely, but it does exist. When Bong Bong weir was constructed in the 1920s to supply water to Moss Vale, a lagoon and swamp area formed at that part of Wingecarribee River. Only 12 years later it was declared a wildlife sanctuary. Now, over 90 species of birds, a third of which are waterbirds, have made it their temporary or permanent home.

Whether you’re keen on birdwatching or just looking for a peaceful place to enjoy walking and a quiet picnic, Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve awaits you.

The land was originally part of 1,000ac granted in 1819 to Charles Throsby in recognition of his exploration of a route from the Southern Highlands to the Bathurst district. This area is also where Bong Bong village, the first settlement in the Southern Highlands, once stood. Although the village no longer exists, you can view historic Throsby Park from the reserve, where colonial buildings remain intact.