Hillgrove was an innovative town back in the day. It was the first place in the state to benefit from Hydro Electricity. Here is an article from 1894, recording the original contract to supply power.
Source: The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA), Saturday 10 February 1894
A BIG UNDERTAKING.
Sydney, February 9.
The Hillgrove and Armidale Water-power, and Electric Company having secured extensive water rights in the vicinity of Hillgrove to-day accepted the tender of the Crompton Electric Supply Company for carrying out an extensive electric plant, the motive power of which will be supplied from the Guyra River falls. The company will supply the Baker’s Creek and Eleanora gold mines, Hillgrove, with electricity for working the batteries, pumps, and concentrators, as well as supply the town of Hillgrove with electric lighting. The hydraulic plant will be supplied and erected by Mr. W. H. Palmer, of Melbourne. The electric plant will be one of the largest not only in the colonies, but also in the old country. The first cost will be £20,000.
The evidence for the hydro scheme still exists as relics around the Gara River, closer to Armidale. As you travel around Hillgrove finding caches you'll learn a lot more of Hillgrove's history.