Crookwell, New South Wales

Crookwell is a small town with a population of about 2000 located in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia, in the Upper Lachlan Shire. The town is at a relatively high altitude in Australian terms and there are occasional snowfalls during the winter months. The nearest major centre is the city of Goulburn which is about a half hour drive to the south of the town. Crookwell is easily accessible to the state capital of Sydney and also the Federal capital of Canberra.

Most occupations are based on rural industries, there being a very strong agriculturally based economy. The district is renowned for potato farming, or 'spud digging', hence people who reside in Crookwell are often referred to as 'spud diggers'. The towns of Boorowa and Yass are in the district.

Crookwell is also home to NSW's first wind farm. The wind farm consisting of 8 poles is located 8 minutes out of Crookwell on the Goulburn road. The "windmill" operates automatically when there is 15km/h wind and shuts off when wind speed reaches 72km/h. There is controversy about its aesthetic appeal amongst Crookwell and surrounding residents, and forms a curious tourist attraction amidst the general decline of sheep farming and the continued drought in the area.

External Links:
Crookwell Railway Station