Prior to white settlement in 1834, the Gunn-e-darr people of the Kamilaroi trie inhabited the Gunnedah area. One of the first identities to live in teh area was the "Red Chief", the legendary Aboriginal warrior whose life story has been told by Ion Idriess in his book entitled "The Red Chief". The township of Gunnedah began as a tiny settlement known as "The Woolshed", nestled amidst the fertile black soil plains of the Upper Namoi Valley overlooking the Namoi and Mooki rivers. Since this time, Gunnedah has developed into a bustling and progressive country town. Local industries and the natural attractions of the area have encouraged the establishment of a strong, close-knit community supporitng a full range of retail outlets and a wide spectrum of business and service industries.
Water Tower Museum
An excellent historical museum is located near the Visitor Information Centre in Anzac Park. Memorabilla is housed in the old water tower, which was built in 1908 as Gunnedah's first reservoir. The museum features a mural painting which captures the very early Aboriginal and European history of the district.
The Museum is set out on three levels with a viewing platform on the top section. Opening hourse are Saturday 2pm - 5pm, or appointments can be made by contacting the Visitors information centre on 67402230.