Grafton

Postcode: 2460

Grafton is the commercial hub of the Clarence River Valley which has a population approaching 50,000. Established in 1855 Grafton features many fine historic buildings and beautiful tree lined streets. Located approx 630 klms north of Sydney and 340 klms south of Brisbane, Grafton and the Clarence Valley is easily reached by Road, Rail or Air.

In 1851, Governor FitzRoy officially named the town "Grafton", after his grandfather, the Duke of Grafton, a former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Grafton was proclaimed a city in 1885. Local industries include, logging, beef cattle, fishing/prawning, sugar, manufacturing and tourism is a growing part of the local economy.

The town is perhaps also known for its double-decker road/railway bridge, opened in 1932, completing the standard gauge rail connection between Sydney and Brisbane. This bridge is a one of a kind and is a major feature on the Clarence River in Grafton.

Grafton is also known as the Jacaranda City, in reference to its tree-lined streets and annual Jacaranda Festival, held in October/November.

Grafton is also well known for the Grafton Cup horserace, held on the second thursday in July. A half day holiday is observed in Grafton for the Cup day.

A vision of Grafton with its numerous brilliantly-flowered trees in bloom, is immortalised in Australian music culture in Cold Chisel's song Flame Trees.

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