COOTAMUNDRA Cootamundra is another of those towns that require a diversion for the North South traveler. The diversion is well worth the effort, and an overnight stay would be a minimum consideration for the visitor. Cootamundra is a very impressive and quite large town. The Donald Bradman Birthplace Museum is a catalyst for a visit, but there are other magnets that will keep one impressed. Although it is by passed by the Hume Highway, its railway station is on the Main Southern line, part of the Melbourne-to-Sydney line. Sir Donald Bradman AC, Australian cricketer universally regarded as the greatest batsman of all time was born in Cootamundra. The town pride in this fact is displayed in general signage and marketing material and the home where The Don was born is a fully restored visitor site open to the public 7 days per week. Cootamundra is the home of the Cootamundra Wattle (Acacia baileyana). Every year there is a large 'Wattle Time' Festival (which happens when the wattle starts to bloom) with an art show and festivities. Cootamundra was incorporated as a township on 9 August 1861, and the first settlers bought their lots in early 1862. Like many other towns in the Riverina, it was originally populated by those attracted by the gold rush of the 1860s, but became a quiet yet prosperous agricultural community after the local deposits were exhausted. The numbers of hotels bear testimony to that earlier era. The Roman Catholic Cathedral is an impressive design and building. Other denominations are represented at Cootamundra and the United Church is quite something. The Cootamundra impressive War Memorial is located near the Anglican Church. Quite an impressive town and is a great place to stay a while. Heritage diary