Villages
Cootamundra is a town surrounded by smaller villages that make up the towns population and its beautiful scenery. Driving in-between each villages provides a glimpse into the lives of people in the country, the wildlife, farming culture and the harshness yet unique attributes of the land.
bethungra
Although Bethungra is within the Junee Shire Council Region, it is only a short 20 minute drive from Cootamundra along the Olympic Highway.
Just to the north of the town lies the Bethungra Spiral, a rail spiral built on the Main South railway line to ease the gradients when the line was duplicated between 1941 and 1946. A railway station was located in the town between 1878 and the 1980’s, and has now been demolished.
Bethungra also is home to a dam, which covers an area of 14.65 hectares and holds 600 mega-litres of water. It is on Crown Land and is managed by Junee Shire Council. Much of the land surrounding the dam is privately owned, while the remainder is leased for agricultural purposes and some free camping locations.
coolac
Coolac is a small village a shy 28 minute drive from Cootamundra. It is a ever evolving town with the local pub (The beehive), the General Store and a very scenic drive down the main street showcasing some old buildings such as the Old Hospital, The Windmill Cottage, The Coolac Railway Stop and train Tracks, Coolac School House, Church and some old trains. These beautiful buildings can only be seen from the road as they are on private property.
muttama
Muttama is located between Coolac and Cootamundra and is a very rural, country area within the Riverina. The village has a small, unique Church as well as a Town Hall. The name Muttama is derived from the local Aboriginal word meaning "like it" or "take it". Mining in the area began in the 1860’s and Muttama prospered with the discovery of gold at Muttama Reef in 1882.
stockinbingal
Cootamundra to Stockinbingal is a short 18 minute drive that offers beautiful views of the area. The sides of the road are skirted with Gum Trees and native flora and fauna, that will guide you along your way. The Town has its own bowling club, which offers great meals and a icy cold beer.
wallendbeen
If you’re looking for a nice leisurely drive out of the hustle and bustle of the towns centre, Wallendbeen is a must. With it only being a 20 minute drive from the centre, the community of Wallendbeen enjoys a quiet and peaceful lifestyle and is proud of its beautiful surrounds which are now attracting many new residents from other areas. The road is quiet straight and you will be guided by the trees and barbed wired fences to your destination. At the heart of the village is the historic Wallendbeen Hotel, standing tall greeting visitors, the view upstairs of the village is great and provides a very humble and relaxing atmosphere.