The sturdy Meccano-style construction of the Wardell Lift span Bridge across the Richmond River marks this little township in many driver’s minds. Back in the 1850’s, Wardell was a cedar-getter’s settlement known as Blackwall, and it boomed on the fabulous timbers which were the gold of this region.
Sailing vessels unloaded stone ballast along the riverside and loaded up with logs, and two sawmills flourished for the next two decades. A steamboat service from Ballina to Lismore traded for many more years, but today the closest commercial centres are Alstonville or Ballina, although there is still a pub, general store, service station and Post Office.
INFORMATION
- Population – 500
- Transport Services – Bus
- Council – Ballina Council
MAJOR EVENTS
- The Richmond River Cane Festival – May
- Far North Coast Wardell Half Marathon and 10km run/walk – September