A Brief History of Tallong
The first official European expedition to explore the area was led by James Meehan, Deputy Surveyor of Lands, in 1818. By the early 1820s the first land grants in the Tallong area were being promised.
When the Great Southern Railway was extended from Exeter to Goulburn in 1869, Barber’s Creek Tank was opened as a watering place for locomotives and Barber’s Creek station (now Tallong) was opened for passengers in 1878. By the end of the nineteenth century Tallong was a small but thriving community with a church, school, a general store and post office. The station on the main southern rail line meant employment for locals and transport options for local industries such as fruit growing, mining, timber getting and quarrying.
A major fruit growing industry developed in the area. Apples, pears and peaches were the most profitable fruits to grow but cherries, gooseberries, raspberries and currants also flourished. In 1917 the apple crop was estimated at 10,000 cases and the entries by the Tallong Fruit Growers’ Association regularly won first prize in the Apple Pyramid competition at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Tallong’s place as a major fruit growing area ended in 1965 when a bushfire burnt out most of the orchards, family homes and community amenities, causing many families to leave the district.
Since then there has been a steady rebuilding of the area, gaining momentum at the end of the twentieth century with the subdivision of the large properties and the development of the gated community called Tallong Park Estate leading to an influx of younger families as well as retirees and tree-changers.
Community and Lifestyle in Tallong
Today, Tallong is a small but vibrant village with a population of around 914 residents (including surrounding areas). It sits at an elevation of 620 metres, offering a mild climate and stunning views.
Local amenities include:
- Retail stores and home-based businesses
- Public primary school
- Sporting grounds and small parks
- Active Rural Fire Service (RFS) Brigade
- Community facilities and events
Tallong is best known for the Tallong Apple Festival, held each September, celebrating the village’s fruit-growing heritage with markets, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Transport is convenient, with regular train services, school bus routes, and easy access to the Hume Expressway, connecting residents to Goulburn, Bowral, and Sydney.
Real Estate in Tallong
The Tallong property market offers diverse options, ranging from village homes on small-to-medium blocks to larger lifestyle properties and working farms. A new land release to the south of the village centre is drawing interest, while Tallong Park Estate provides master-planned living with sealed roads, a golf course, and club facilities.
As of last month, Tallong had 3 properties available for rent and 4 properties for sale. The median house price over the past year was $939,500, reflecting Tallong’s growing appeal.
For investors, Tallong houses typically rent for $550 per week, with an annual rental yield of 3.5%.
Why Move to Tallong?
Tallong is a village that balances history, lifestyle, and opportunity. With strong community values, excellent transport links, and a diverse range of property options, it appeals to those seeking rural charm within easy reach of major centres.
You might be searching for your first family home, planning to invest in real estate, or dreaming of a tree-change escape. In every case, Tallong delivers a lifestyle steeped in history, supported by community, and surrounded by natural beauty.