The history of Gunbower is closely tied to tobacco. Gunbower tobacco seeds were in high demand, with growers earning three shillings per ounce and two shillings and three pence per pound for tobacco leaves.
During the boom years, there were 2,000 acres of land under cultivation, with 36 registered growers in the district, along with many unregistered growers. Consequently, the market became flooded with tobacco, leading to poor sales and causing the industry to experience financial distress for many years.
It seems like tobacco has been swapped out for canola oil! As we drove through the area, we saw so many beautiful canola oil paddocks in full bloom. It was such a lovely sight!
