Bowna on Lake Hume

Bowna is a destination whose history is closely linked to Lake Hume. The story of the town unfolds through several themes: the flooding in 1934, visible remains when water levels are very low, and activities at Lake Hume Holiday Park and on the Hume and Hovell Track. When planning a stay, these distinctions can help you decide how to balance an interest in history, activities on the water, and hiking.

Bowna's history on Lake Hume

The historic village of Bowna grew up along the main road between Sydney and Melbourne, serving the rural population and travellers. In 1934, Bowna was flooded by the Hume Weir, now known as Lake Hume. The town’s story therefore reflects both its former role on an important transport route and a profound transformation of its landscape.

When Lake Hume’s water level is very low, the mud-covered remains of the old Bowna’s houses and bridges become visible. Water levels are crucial: the remains cannot be seen at all times. If you want to include them in your plans, take this condition into account. The town’s history also includes a horse race held annually on Easter Monday in historic Bowna.

Activities and getting your bearings

Lake Hume Holiday Park is in Bowna, along a two-kilometre stretch of private Lake Hume shoreline. Activities offered at the park include swimming, fishing, and boating. As details about activities and facilities can change, check the operator’s current information if any of these offerings are important to your plans.

For hikers, the specific route details of the Hume and Hovell Track are useful: the section from Lankey's Creek to Bowna passes through Woomargama National Park. By contrast, Old Bowna Cemetery is on private property. Respect this access restriction and do not plan to visit it as a freely accessible destination.

Explore the broader destination of Greater Hume Shire Council

Beyond Bowna, the broader destination of Greater Hume Shire Council offers further nature and culture themes. Woomargama National Park is the largest protected forest area west of the Great Dividing Range. Birdwatchers in the park may spot, among others, the Regent Honeyeater, Superb Parrot, and Powerful Owl. The Hume and Hovell Track stretches for 426 kilometres in total between Yass and Albury; the route from Lankey's Creek to Bowna is one specifically named section of this trail.

Another scenic highlight in the broader destination is Norths Lookout: this natural granite platform sits at an elevation of about 1,000 metres and offers a 180-degree view of the Upper Murray Valley, the western side of the Snowy Mountains, the Riverina District, and Holbrook. These views offer a different perspective on the region from Bowna’s history by the lake.

Greater Hume Shire Council also has plenty to offer visitors interested in culture. The Walla Walla Heritage Walk offers insights into German influence, and heritage trails can also be found in Burrumbuttock, Culcairn, Henty, Jindera, and Woomargama. The Jindera Pioneer Museum comprises more than 25 rooms and galleries. Particularly notable is its shop building, with original shop fittings and furnishings considered outstanding in New South Wales. In Holbrook, the Submarine Precinct houses the decommissioned Australian submarine HMAS OTWAY and serves as a stopover on the Hume Highway.

For the broader travel guide: Greater Hume Shire Council.