They’re everywhere, and they’re as charming as all get out. The frogs of Balranald. From the cheery chap sitting on a bench to greet you at the Discovery centre, to the amphibian leaping to catch the ball, clad in a Balranald Roos jumper at Greenham Park.There’s also a hardworking green creature holding a shovel at Balranald Shire Council, and so many more.When you call into the Discovery centre to say hi to the welcoming frog, pop your head in to see the awesome staff, and pick up some frog merchandise, everything frog like is there – you will be astounded.These cute frogs call attention to an endangered species of frog.The Endangered Southern Bell Frog, also known as the Growling Grass Frog because of its signature growl, generally takes residence in the semi-permanent wetlands in south eastern Australia and is also been spied in the Balranald Shire wetlands. The Distribution of the Growling Grass Frog in NSW is now restricted to a few areas along the Murrumbidgee River and lower Murrumbidgee Flood Plain around Balranald.The flood plain has large areas of high-quality River Red Gums and Black Box swamps which, when conditions are right, are regularly flooded.These areas are potentially good frog habitats.This has been reflected in the apparent high numbers of the Barking Frog and other species identified in the Balranald district of late.Being aware of local frog numbers that appear to counter trends elsewhere, local businesses and the Balranald Council are promoting this unique frog situation.They are being good advocates, promoting awareness of this amphibian which unfortunately now owns a listing on the NSW Endangered Species List.The frog is bright green in colour with splotches of gold, bronze and black along its back and bright turquoise on the back of its thighs and changes colour rapidly when subject to heat or bright lights often turning dark brown during the day.Sadly, the Southern Bell has vanished from more than half of its former range over the past 20 years. Scientists aren’t certain what caused the vanishing act, but disease, habitat loss, farm chemicals and the threat of exotic species are likely catalysts.

One essential experience to seek out when in the Balranald are is a tour with Outback Geo Adventures.German Ugarte and his wife Paulina decided to create Outback Geo Adventures in 2012.Their aim was to pioneer Geotours to Mungo and Yanga National Park from Balranald.The couple are immensely passionate about the country town, located on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River in New South Wales. Born in Perth from Chilean parents, when German was five years old, he and his family returned to Chile and I spent over 21 years there. “I did my degree in Tourism Planning at SEK University,” German said.“In 2001 with Paulina, came to Australia with the intention to spend four months backpacking and enjoying the most popular Aussie icons.” However their plans drastically changed.Shortly after their arrival, the couple realised that their future was here and the pair have been here since. German completed a postgraduate in business at Edith Cowan University, and tourism and community development was always his main driving force. “I have been involved in tourism for about 20 years, I’ve worked with indigenous communities in remote areas in the south of Chile, and I’ve spent many years working in Local Governments in Australia,” he said. “I had the opportunity to meet truly great people, proud of their place and heritage, and so keen to share their stories to visitors. “I have great memories of Narembeen and Esperance in WA and the work we did together making reality some of their dreams and aspirations.” Outback Geo Adventures is the result of years of working with local communities and the desire to reconnect with simple things in life They conduct their tours with great respect towards the environment, the local community, and with a great deal of enthusiasm. What are the walls of China you may ask? A viewing platform you can walk along, to see dramatic formations sculpted by wind and erosion. It’s not just the scenic desert views that will take your breath away; these lunettes harbour vital clues to the evolution of life on earth.Imbedded deep within the ancient lakebeds, historic relics of early Aboriginal culture have been discovered, believed to be over 36 000 years old. Close your eyes and imagine a fertile land fed by vast lakes, where wombats the size of buffalos grazed during the last ice age.Rave reviews on Trip Advisor attest to the worthwhile experience.“Perfect family-friendly tour that met a range of adult and kid interests,” one tour on trip advisor read.“We had a wonderful day trip with German, stopping to see the birds, animals and plants of the Mulga country,” another review read.“The food was excellent and plentiful. Lake Mungo visitors centre was really interesting, and the authorised walk out on to the Walls of China with German as our guide was amazing. “We had the benefit of German's great knowledge of the place and saw unforgettable sites, nature and fossils.”

As a visitor to the town, it is hard to describe how interesting and informative the signs that adorn the streets of Balranald are.To see the rich and varied history of the town, from its war history, and much more, is fascinating.In 2023, a milestone was achieved for the area and its signs. A sign celebrating the Port of Balranald that operated between 1860 and 1930 marked the one hundredth sign.Historian David Eastburn created every sign, interpreting the natural and cultural heritage of the town and district produced to date.David collaborated with Balranald graphic artist Zoe Griffiths to produce the sign along with eleven others in the Balranald, and district cultural heritage series. Balranald was a major river port at the height of the Murray-Murrumbidgee-Darling rivers trade. Transport of wool by river steamer began in the Balranald district. On 28 September 1853, the PS Lady Augusta and barge Eureka collected the first load of wool (220 bales) from ‘Poon Boon’ Station, on the Wakool River near Kyalite, south of Balranald. Balranald storekeepers John Cramsie and John Bowden also owned and operated a fleet of river steamers and barges at the height of the river trade. Balranald and Echuca were also the last commercial river ports on the Murray-Darling system. In addition, a plaque for WWI soldier Gunner Jack Butler (later the proprietor of the Shamrock Hotel) was unveiled next to his former workplace on Anzac Day. His became sign number 47 researched and produced by David. The Balranald Military Heritage Walk honours individual local service man or woman.Over the past 15 years, David has contributed and volunteered more than 4000 hours of research time into the history of the western Riverina. He has also sorted and catalogued more than 100 boxes of records from ‘Clare’ and ‘Manfred’ stations for the Butlin Archives at the Australian National University in Canberra.He has also produced major documents on ‘Paika’ and ‘Clare’ stations, and ‘The flooded country below Hay’ (Low Bidgee and Great Cumbung Swamp). David has compiled a database of more than 2000 employees, contractors, goods and service providers, selectors and others associated with ‘Clare’ Station. A comprehensive list, it includes the type of work that each carried out, the time period, and selected brief biographies.

Mungo National Park isn't your typical postcard paradise. Its beauty lies in its stark, ancient landscapes that whisper tales of a time long gone. Located in outback NSW, roughly 875 kilometers west of Sydney, Mungo paints a picture of ochre dunes and dusty plains, a dramatic backdrop to an even more remarkable story – that of Australia's Aboriginal people.Mungo's claim to fame rests on its UNESCO World Heritage status, recognising its cultural and natural significance. Here, the land itself becomes a museum, with evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back over 50,000 years. The centrepiece of this story is the discovery of Mungo Man and Mungo Woman, perfectly preserved remains of some of the world's oldest cremations, estimated to be 42,000 years old. These finds, along with fossilised footprints, offer a glimpse into the rituals and lives of these early Australians.A visit to Mungo National Park is a journey through time. The Mungo Visitor Centre, your first stop, serves as a great introduction. Explore interactive exhibits that delve into the park's geological history, Aboriginal culture, and the fascinating archaeological discoveries. Here, you can pick up the park's digital guidebook, a handy companion that will enrich your explorations even in remote areas with limited reception.Beyond the visitor centre, the park unfolds in a tapestry of diverse landscapes. Take a walk along the Walls of China, a dramatic formation of ancient lakebed sediments sculpted by wind and time. Climb atop the Mungo Lunette, a crescent-shaped dune offering panoramic views across the vastness of the park. Let your imagination wander as you gaze upon the stark beauty of Lake Mungo, a reminder of a wetter past when the region teemed with life.Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to discover in Mungo. The park is a haven for a variety of outback wildlife. Keep an eye out for majestic wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead, the ever-curious emus, and the agile red kangaroos hopping across the plains. Look closely, and you might spot a shy goanna basking in the sun or a flock of colourful galahs flitting between trees.For the truly adventurous, camping under the vast outback sky offers an unforgettable experience. Designated campsites are available, each with basic amenities. Remember, Mungo is a remote location, so ensure you're well-prepared with plenty of water, food, and essential supplies before venturing out.Respecting the park's delicate ecosystem is paramount. Indigenous Australians have a deep spiritual connection to this land. Always be mindful and adhere to designated walking tracks to avoid disturbing any cultural sites or fragile plant life.Mungo National Park is more than just a scenic getaway; it's a portal to Australia's ancient past. It's a place where the wind whispers stories of resilience, where the land itself bears the marks of cultures long gone. So, pack your sense of adventure, a healthy dose of respect for the environment, and get ready to embark on a journey unlike any other.