First People, Pioneers & Locals
Pioneers and First Australians
The Alectown area has been home to the Wiradjuri people for tens of thousands of years, long before European settlement.
The region holds deep cultural significance as part of Wiradjuri Country. Early explorer Major Thomas Mitchell and his guides, including Wiradjuri man Bultje, are documented as having met with local Wiradjuri people during their expeditions through the region.elaxing picnic, a scenic bushwalk or an off-road adventure, Goobang National Park provides an unforgettable Australian bush experience.
Bultje — Guide and Pioneer
Bultje, a Wiradjuri man from the region, guided Major Mitchell during his 1836 expedition along the Darling River and later assisted him in his exploration of the Bogan River.
Bultje joined Mitchell and his men near Peak Hill, close to Alectown, and remained with the expedition until they reached the Bogan River.
He was paid a tomahawk, a pipe and two ounces of tobacco for his assistance.
Mitchell recorded his meeting with local Aboriginal people in his expedition journal.
The Westcott Family
In 1865, Joseph Westcott moved from Victoria to the Alectown district and established a residence at Bridgewater.
He became the first farmer to settle in the district, establishing a family name that would become closely associated with the region.
Today, the Westcott family continues to have strong connections to Alectown, with six generations represented in the district.
The family operates approximately 6,000 acres of land throughout the Alectown area.
From Alectown to the Olympics
The legacy of Alectown’s pioneers continues through its people.
Scott Westcott, a member of the Westcott family, became one of only a small number of former Parkes Shire residents to represent Australia at the Olympic Games.
Westcott competed in the Olympic marathon, finishing in 2:22:19 and placing 81st among 155 competitors.
His achievement is a source of great pride for the people of Alectown and the Parkes Shire, reflecting the tenacity, determination and strength associated with the region’s pioneers and First Australians.
