In 1860 gold was discovered and the population soared to 20,000. 2,000 of these men were Chinese. The white miners resented the Chinese and in 1861, through a series of riots , drove the Chinese out. As a result of the riots the Immigration Restriction Act was passed by Parliament in 1861. This was the forerunner of the White Australia Policy passed in 1901.
Many historic sites contain mining remains including Chinese pugmills, water races and dams.
Industry One of the biggest producers of table cherries in the Southern Hemisphere. Industries include fruit, gold diggings, wineries, jam factory, glassblowing, and an alpaca stud. Young boasts the greatest agricultural diversity in NSW with cherries and prunes being its major products. Grapes are also grown. Background Climate Annual rainfall 660mm, ranging from 550mm - 750mm in the fruit growing area.