During the Great Depression and in gold rush times, people travelling country roads in search of work, food or just a place to sleep the night, used a secret code of symbols to communicate the 'lie…
During the Great Depression and in gold rush times, people travelling country roads in search of work, food or just a place to sleep the night, used a secret code of symbols to communicate the 'lie of the land' to fellow travellers. This secret language was used internationally - by the tramps and gypsies of Europe to the hobos of America and the swaggies of Australia.
Chester Nealie, a local identity and well known Gulgong potter came up with a creative concept for decorative paving in Gulgong when approached by the council. The symbols, of which Chester chose 16 from a possible 50 or so, were deemed appropriate for Gulgong's gold rush and 'battler' past.
The Gulgong Symbol Trail comprises around 70 tiles, placed in a random 'swaggering' pattern throughout Mayne Street and Coronation Park. See if you can find the tiles as you wander the streets of Gulgong.
Pure joy as you wake to the sunrise. Awe as you make it to the snowy peak. A sense of adventure as you motor across red plains. The relief of rejuvenation as you wade into an alpine stream. Connection as you taste native, fragrant leaves. A sense of belonging as you return to your favourite holiday house. Freedom as you dash into the waves. Discover the endless feelings a visit to NSW can inspire.
