Settlement of the area dates primarily from 1852 when the township was established. Nestled on the beautiful Shoalhaven River, Nowra has developed to be the business and administrative ‘capital’ of Shoalhaven City. With a suburb population of 9, 193 (Census 2016.) Nowra has an extensive array of shops, café’s and restaurants, which provides residents with easy access to all necessities and so much more. The wide river proves a popular spot for fishing, boating, kayaking and river cruises.
Nowra is an established residential area, with substantial commercial areas. Predominate industries include retail, government, education and tourism. Features of the area include Shoalhaven City Council Administrative Building, Nowra Central Business District, Stockland Nowra (shopping centre), Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital, Nowra Private Hospital, Meerogal (historic home), Arunta Close Reserve, Davis Park, Endeavour Park, Harry Sawkins Park, Liberty Park, Lyrebird Oval, Marriott Park, Mavromattes Reserve, McLean Street Reserve, Nowra Apex Park, Nowra Park Recreation Ground, Nowra Showground, Ratcliffe Park, Stimson Park, West Street Oval, Nowra Olympic Pool, Nowra Cemetery and numerous schools.