Day 22 – 9,395 KM. Town 36.
The rains continued to pour as I travelled from Narromine to Tullamore partly along unsealed track which always makes the journey more of an adventure.
Tullamore was initially settled as Bullock Creek in 1870 and then was called Gobondery before becoming known as Tullamore. The Tullamore name was adopted through Families from Tullamore in Ireland residing in the district and naming their property this which the town then took on board.
Unfortunately Tullamore did not have any obvious indoor activities I could pursue so I had a drive around to take in the town. On entry to the town, the showground is clearly signposted which is home to the annual Tullamore Irish Festival. With 70-80% of the community having family connections with Ireland, family names such as Carey, Crowley, McAneney, Corcoran and property names like Omagh, Tralee,Ormonde, Kinvara, Cadungle it is clear to see strong Irish connections. This is further evidenced with the shamrock on the towns signpost.
A small selection of shops line the main road through the town but this is dominated by the Tullamore Hotel which seems far too large for its surroundings.
Unfortunately, with the rain gaining pace the 680 locals were all indoors and I was unable to witness any of the hospitality that would have helped the town win “Community of the Year” in 2008. So, after taking a few photo’s it was back on to the road again.