Lost in the Blue Mountains’ embrace lies Winmalee a town steeped in history. Winmalee wasn’t always Winmalee. Originally known as North Springwood its name changed in 1972. A 14-year-old won a competition to name this burgeoning suburb. They chose Winmalee a word possibly derived from Wimlah one of the Three Sisters rock formations. This is a fascinating detail isn’t it?
Winmalee’s story is entwined with the Dharug people. They inhabited this land for perhaps 50000 years. Nomadic and resourceful they left behind archaeological evidence. Open sites and shelters whisper tales of their lives. Sadly few Dharug descendants remain in the area. Many moved north merging with other tribes. Others were lost during European settlement a tragic chapter in Australia’s past.
The Geographical Names Board initially proposed White Cross as a name for Winmalee. But residents opposed it. The name Winmalee though not a true Dharug word for north won approval. Winmalee officially became a town on April 28 1972. This marked its independence from Springwood.
Winmalee thrived developing its own schools. St Columba’s High School a former Catholic seminary opened in 1979. Winmalee High followed in 1985 catering to the growing population. Winmalee Public School began in 1972. Its first students initially attended classes in Springwood.
The Winmalee Village Centre a hub of activity opened in the early 1980s. Renovated in 2005 it offers a Coles Supermarket and other shops. A small strip mall on Hawkesbury Road provides further amenities. Even the post office found a home in the Village Centre.
Sadly the 2013 bushfires devastated parts of Winmalee. Buena Vista Road alone lost 40 homes. The fires left a lasting scar. Yet the community spirit endured. Winmalee rebuilt showing resilience and strength.
Today Winmalee is a vibrant town. It boasts Summerhayes Park a recreation area with sports fields. Tennis and netball courts a skate park and an outdoor gym are located there. It’s a place where history nature and community converge. A testament to Winmalee’s enduring spirit. A beautiful part of the Blue Mountains’ charm.