Business categories in Bourke, NSW
Welcome to Bourke, NSW
Bourke is a rural centre on the Darling River. It’s home to 2,047 people including a large number of Indigenous Australians.
History
Charles Sturt explored the area of Bourke in 1828.
Settlement began in the mid-1800s. Tensions erupted with local indigenous groups. Surveyor Thomas Mitchell built a small stockade to protect his men. Fort Bourke formed the foundation for the town. It became a centre for rural trade.
By the end of the century, Bourke had a bus terminus, a bridge crossing and a rail link. It became a trade hub, reliant on camels for transport.
Famous writer Henry Lawson spent six months in Bourke. The harsh outback life inspired much of his work.
LIfestyle and Entertainment
Bourke remains a rural centre. It is the last stop for tourists heading into the outback.
