Berry

Berry, a captivating village in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, offers a blend of rural tranquility and refined charm. Approximately 143 km south of Sydney, it serves as a popular escape for those seeking a slower pace of life. The town is framed by rolling green hills, fertile farmlands, and the distant Tasman Sea, creating a scenic backdrop for its well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

Known as the 'Town of Trees' due to the many oak and elm trees planted by early settlers, Berry's streets are lined with inviting boutiques, engaging art galleries, and welcoming cafes. The town's appeal lies in its ability to offer a relaxed country lifestyle while providing access to gourmet dining, local produce, and a thriving arts scene. Berry has consistently been recognized as a top small tourism town, drawing visitors year-round for its unique atmosphere and diverse offerings.

From Boon-ga-ree to Broughton Creek

Before European colonization, the Berry area was known as Boon-ga-ree and was home to the Wodi Wodi people, a subgroup of the Dharawal nation. In the 1810s, government surveyor George William Evans noted the district's potential for settlement and its valuable red cedar stands, which attracted itinerant timber cutters.

European settlement began in 1822 when Alexander Berry and his business partner Edward Wollstonecraft received land grants in the Shoalhaven region. From 1825, the locality was a private town called Broughton Creek, part of Berry and Wollstonecraft's Coolangatta Estate. The name Broughton Creek honored an Indigenous man who assisted Alexander Berry. Early industries included timber cutting, a tannery, and a sawmill.

The Berry Family's Influence and Town Development

By 1866, Broughton Creek had grown significantly, with a post office, school, tannery, store, and an inn. In 1873, Alexander Berry died, and his brother David Berry inherited the estate. David Berry actively encouraged the town's growth, establishing an Agricultural Showground and donating land for four religious denominations to build churches. The town's name officially changed from Broughton Creek to Berry in 1889 to honor the Berry family after David's death. The David Berry Hospital, now a rehabilitation and palliative care facility, was also a bequest from the Berry family.

A Shifting Economy and Modern Appeal

Berry was connected to Sydney by rail in 1893 with the opening of the Kiama to Bomaderry line. The Berry Central Creamery, described as the largest and most complete butter factory in the colony, was built in 1895 and was the first in NSW to adopt pasteurization technology. An experimental farm was established in 1899, known for developing the Illawarra Shorthorn cattle breed. While timber cutting and dairy farming were central to Berry's early economy, these industries have diminished since the 1980s. Today, tourism is a significant economic driver, with many businesses catering to visitors seeking boutique shopping, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. Major highway upgrades have bypassed the village, reducing through traffic and enhancing its pedestrian-friendly main street.

Berry offers a range of attractions, blending its historical roots with contemporary appeal. Stroll along Queen Street, the main hub, to explore boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. The Berry Historic Museum provides insights into the town's past, or you can embark on a self-guided historical walk to discover heritage buildings like the Berry Courthouse. The Courthouse, designed by Colonial Architect James Barnet, is a notable example of Greek Revival architecture.

For those with a sweet tooth, the Berry Donut Van is a local institution, serving freshly made donuts on Queen Street. The Treat Factory offers a chance to see fudge being made, participate in chocolate workshops, and purchase gourmet jams and relishes. The Berry Markets, held on the first Sunday of every month (except February) at the Berry Showground, feature over 100 stalls with handmade goods, local produce, and crafts. The Berry Farmers' Market, held every Thursday afternoon at the Showground, focuses on seasonal and local produce.

Beyond the town center, the surrounding countryside is home to several wineries, including Two Figs Winery, Silos Estate, and Mountain Ridge Wines, offering tastings and scenic views. For outdoor enthusiasts, Seven Mile Beach National Park is a short drive away, providing opportunities for walks, swimming, and relaxing on the sand. Hiking to Drawing Room Rocks offers expansive views of the ocean, farmland, and escarpment.

Berry is a captivating destination year-round. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and inviting scenery, with blossoms in spring and golden foliage in autumn. Summer brings warm temperatures, ideal for enjoying nearby beaches and longer evenings. Winter is perfect for cozy escapes, with cooler air inviting visitors to enjoy fireside dining and indoor experiences. The best time for warm-weather activities is generally from early December to late March.

Berry is approximately a two-hour drive south of Sydney via the Princes Highway. For those traveling from Canberra, the drive is about two and a half hours via the Federal and Hume Highways, followed by the Illawarra Highway. The town is also accessible by train, with regular services connecting Sydney to Berry Station. Driving in Berry is generally straightforward, with well-maintained streets, though caution is advised for wildlife, particularly in early mornings and late afternoons.

Berry offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique motels to guesthouses. It's recommended to book dining reservations in advance, especially on weekends, as many popular restaurants can be busy and some may close early in the week. The town has ATMs available. For local information and community news, the monthly 'Town Crier' newspaper is a good resource.