Mogo

A charming village, Mogo will intrigue you with its colonial goldmining history and internationally respected Mogo Zoo, which operates a successful breeding program for endangered exotic species. In the beautiful Eurobodalla region, Mogo is also known for arts and craft and mountain biking through the Mogo State Forest.

Gold fever struck Mogo in 1857 when the precious metal was discovered at Cabbage Tree Creek, sparking a rush of fossickers to the area. You can experience what it was like during the colonial gold rush at the award-winning Original Gold Rush Colony, which recreates the 19th century goldmining village of Mogo.

Try your luck panning for gold and explore a gold mine at this fascinating museum and theme park, a short drive southwest of Batemans Bay and north of Moruya on the NSW South Coast. You’ll see goldmining equipment such as a working stamp battery and rock crusher. There are guided tours, a gift shop and accommodation.

Nearby is Mogo Zoo, home to more than 240 animals, including Rothschild’s giraffe, Sumatran tigers, snow leopards, white lions and Western lowland gorillas. Check out the feeding times and keeper talks. You can also get up close and personal to rhinoceros, meerkats, red pandas, monkeys and lions on private animal encounters.

A thriving arts and crafts scene is a big drawcard, too. You’ll find galleries filled with local artworks and shops selling handmade goods, jewellery, pottery, antiques and homewares. Amanda’s of Mogos sells art supplies. Make an appointment and visit the Ken Taber Art Studio and Open Garden.