10 October 2023.
Yerranderie, a historic ghost town in NSW, was once a bustling mining hub. In the early 1900s, it was home to over 2,000 people and produced millions of ounces of silver and gold. However, the construction of the Warragamba Dam in the 1950s cut off its main access, leading to its decline. In 1947, the town was bought by Aubin Rene Lhuede, and his daughter Valerie Lheude took over its management. A remarkable woman, Valerie dedicated her life to preserving Yerranderie's heritage. In 2011, at the age of 89, she handed the town over to the NSW Minister for the Environment. Today, it's managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service in Oberon. Valerie's efforts have ensured that Yerranderie remains a testament to Australia's rich history, now serving as a regional park that combines remnants of the town with old mining sites and bushwalks. Her legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that one person can make a significant impact on a community's preservation. Thank you Valerie Lheude from all of the Wollondilly.