Minnamurra Rainforest and Minnamurra Falls

The Minnamurra Rainforest is an important ecological site because it has been relatively protected since the 1900s, and there are many rainforest plants and animals not found elsewhere. Most of the rainforest species endemic to southern NSW can be found in a pristine state in the upper reaches of the falls.

Minnamurra Falls has been a popular picnic spot since the 1870s, and received its official name in 1896 when the Hon. J Carruthers (Minister for Lands) visited and the area and approx 40 acres was set aside for recreation. In 1909 the falls were apparently renamed Hampdon Falls after the visit of a Governor, but this renaming proved unpopular and the current name remained in use.

Most of the land in the Minnamurra rainforest reserve was originally owned by Alexander and Edward Badans and Thomas Ward. Later, Ellen and Frederick Tieck donated nearby land, and approx 500 acres of surrounding Crown land was absorbed to act as a buffer zone for the reserve.

Toilets and shelter sheds were built by the Jamberoo Council in 1936, and further work was done in 1938 as part of a relief work program for men during the depression. The workmen camped on Cole’s Flat and created a path to the falls with permanent crossings over the streams.

Howard Judd, appointed in 1936 as a Kiama Council Ranger, worked tirelessly to champion the beauty and conservation of the area, in part by limiting the number of cars to the site and by developing education programs and promoting appreciation of the unique environment. In his more than thirty years as ranger, Judd saw the number of visitors to the reserve increase to 100,000 per year. He also oversaw the development of the museum (built by the Kiama Rotary Club in 1968), kiosk and other facilities, and decking to protect the most seriously damaged areas.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service took over the management of the Reserve in 1986 and have since created the boardwalks, suspension bridges, car parking and improved facilities. An important change has been the regeneration of an adjoining area that has experienced heavy logging, coal mining, floods, fires, cattle grazing and large numbers of visitors since the 1870s.

Minnamurra Creek at the bottom of the falls, date unknown (1920s/1930s?)

Ranger Howard Judd, pictured at Minnamurra Rainforest
From an article in 'Walkabout' magazine, Vol. 29, No. 8, 1 August 1963

Lower falls Minnamurra Falls, c.1900s. (Photographer Samuel Cocks)

Upper Minnamurra Falls, c.1900s (Photographer Samuel Cocks)

Lyn and Grant Leatheam standing below the falls c.1950s

Minnamurra Falls postcard c.1900s