Sydney & Blue Mountains - May 2013 by iMag Publications Pty Ltd

May 2013

Sydney, Blue Mountains and Central West Inside:

National Alpaca Week Pages 27 & 46

Many ideas for Mothers Day inside

Blue Mountains Crossing www.monthlyimag.com.au

Stay with us for a unique experience! - Page 17

Welcome to the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Cultural Launch

Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon Tourism launched its Greater Blue Mountains Aboriginal Cultural Experience Guide in October. Embracing cultural information from the six Aboriginal language groups of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, this draft document brings together the Darkinjung, Darug, Dharawal, Gundungurra, Wiradjuri and Wonnarua language groups to explore opportunities to share their authentic experiences with locals and visitors. Share a Unique Experience of the Culture and History of Gundungurra People with Muggudah Aborignal Tours

Our Way, Our Story and Your Journey with Muggadah Tours Origin of Muggadah: Gedumbah is the name of the valley at Echo Point. Also known as Kedumba, Godoomba and Katoomba. The basin bounded by Echo Point and Sublime Point east of the Sisters is Gundungurra women’s country. Further east from Kings Tablelands to Nepean River is called Muggadah. Who we are: Muggadah Indigenous Tours is Aboriginal owned and operated by Gundungurra people. Our strong traditional knowledge coupled with a remarkable understanding of contemporary Aboriginal issues; place us in a unique position to provide the ultimate Aboriginal cultural experience that highlights the true authenticity of our culture, heritage, spirituality and connection to country. Our culturally significant walks are conducted at an enjoyable pace and you will have the opportunity to view Gundungurra cultural sites along the way. Our ancient Country is an identification of our physical and

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spiritual relationship with the land. This landscape reflects the spirit of Gundungurra. Gundungurra traditional lands are made up of a number of clan groups and kinship lines and our lands are a part of the World Heritage Blue Mountains National Park. During the holidays we will be offering Camps, sharing our Cultural and Educational experiences. It is necessary to book for all Muggadah Tours, Camps, Cultural and Educational experiences. See details next page. Tours: We visit the world famous “Three Sisters” known to Gundungurra women as the “Seven Sisters” – Gunar. Leura cascades through the eyes of the Traditional caretakers of the Gundungurra lands. How Nadgyung – water was used and what its purpose

was. Gunyanlung – our dreaming and creation. You will have the time of your life with fantastic views of our lands and the opportunity to experience at first hand the uniqueness and the real deal of Gundungurra people by participating in our guided walks.

Bookings

Monday – Sunday Cost: $30.00 per adult $40 per adult on weekend $15.00 child/student/concession bookings are essential on Muggadah Tours – 0448 786 010 email: trevor@muggadahtours.com.au Website: www.muggadahtours.com.au Gundungurra Tribal Council Tourism Coordinator Sharon Brown sharonbrown@gundungurra.org.au 00411 146 063

The Culture Experience: Muggadah Tours provides a cultural program that highlights the significance of Aboriginal culture, awareness and understanding by combining both our traditional heritage and culture and contemporary methodology, allowing for the best possible hands-on experience for participants.

Leura Cascade is one of our prominent walks. Starting at Mt Solitary Kiosk, (Mt Solitary known as Korowal), discover the culture and history of Gundungurra traditional lands and people through being welcomed to country and participating in smoking ceremony upon arrival. Our culture, heritage, spirituality and connection to land provide an explanation for the world as experienced by the Gundungurra people. The foundation of traditional beliefs was the Gunyanlung or (The) Dreaming - the land was created through the movement and creation of spiritual beings and the creatures of nature. Be amazed by the stories about Nadgyung – Water; Wuggara – White Crested Cockatoo; Dyirrawity – Black Snake and Mugadang – Blue Tongued Lizard from Gundungurra people about Our Gunyanlung – (our dreaming) to the remarkable waterfalls and landscapes throughout the guided tour. As you participate in the walk with our trained guides, you will experience at first hand the traditional uses of bush tucker and medicinal purpose plants to Gundungurra people. Learn more about the origins of Muggadah, the importance of kinship and the changes in seasons. We complete the guided tour at the world famous “Three Sisters” known to Gundungurra women as the “Seven Sisters” Gunar. Hear the legend from our people…

The Camps are held on our traditional lands, which are a part of the World Heritage Area of the Blue Mountains, combined with Gundungurra people who provide their individual skills; knowledge and craftsmanship enabling us to offer a broad range of cultural activities to benefit participants who attend. The skills and knowledge that each participant will develop can only be enhanced and create a platform to share and broaden their knowledge with family, friends and the wider community. Muggadah Camps aim to provide participants with an opportunity to experience Aboriginal culture in an authentic setting, with our own trained and experienced staff.

Education Program Let our traditional lands be an open door to the ultimate Aboriginal education experience sharing our way; our story and your learning. • The ultimate Aboriginal cultural experience of Gundungurra culture, heritage, spirituality and connection to country. • Learn different aspects of traditional life of Gundungurra people, language and the importance of our clan groups and kinship. • Gain a greater sense of the importance of plants/animals and environment to Gundungurra people. • Develop an appreciation and greater knowledge and skills base of our cultural walks, artwork, weapon making and artefact making of ours and surrounding area, storytelling, dance, bush tucker and medicinal purpose plants. • Raise a stronger awareness and appreciation of Gundungurra people and our traditional lands through cultural awareness. The program is designed to achieve outcomes resulting in having a fun and culturally appropriate experience through interactive and educational activities. Achieve newly developed skills and an appreciation for Gundungurra people. All excursion tours are tailored to meet your schools specific needs and if you cannot visit with us then we can bring Gundungurra Education Program to you at your venue.

This is an authentic Aboriginal experience that will stay with you long after you return home. www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Lake Lyell © Margaret Edwards

From the Editor April Welcome to the end of Autumn and the Bicentenary of the Crossing of our Blue Mountains. Our front cover shows the first time I was with a group of ancestors of Blaxland Wentworth and Lawson discussing how they would re-enact the Crossing. You can see some discussion going on…This month I have various articles to help you follow the many events that will unfold to help you celebrate with us to suit yourself in many locations. They are all through the magazine and still developing as we go to print. I thank Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon Tourism and Hartley Progress Association for the information they have sent me. Please follow up their links for the latest information. Enjoy Mothers Day with us too! There is a variety of art, music, food, accommodation and gardens for you to explore and, with so many different options, perhaps you may like to try camping in some of our areas in the mild weather… One way or another, surely there are so many truly wonderful things to see and do you will linger, take your time and stay with us? Make the most of all the options open to you at the moment and recharge.

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Contents

It is not often that we have so many events that are linking us closely from areas in Sydney right out to the Central West… It is so lovely to see that this will be happening over the next three years and that we will be embracing our indigenous peoples more closely too as we learn more about them. Check out details in the magazine, online and in our social media… We even have National Alpaca Week! Check up on details in What’s on, online and in our social media. How are you planning on celebrating the Crossing of the Blue Mountains Bicentenary? Join us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and check out our web for more information. Drive safely, take care, live and love well! Always make every day count…and good luck in finding your answers – whatever the questions!

Independently owned franchise Published by Imag Publications Editor: Margaret Edwards Phone/Fax: (02) 6359 3399 Mobile: 0411 858 140 Administration: Kevin Edwards Email: salesbmimag@bigpond.com PO Box 602, Lithgow NSW 2790

PLEASE NOTE: Deadline for Copy/Changes - 1st of the month prior to month of publication

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MONTHLY

Material in this publication is copyright and may not be published or reproduced in any form without the express permission of the publishers. Circulation, an average of 10,000 - 15,000 copies distributed monthly throughout the Region as well as major tourism information centres in Sydney, Canberra and country NSW. Information supplied by others for this magazine is published in good faith. Whilst every endeavour has been made to ensure absolute accuracy of this information, the Publishers cannot be held responsible for any consequences resulting from omissions or inadvertent errors contained herein. Printed by Spotpress, 24-26 Lilian Fowler Place, Marrickville, NSW © Imag Publications Pty Ltd 2012 Subscription to magazine $30 per year.

Kevin

Greater Blue Mountains WH Hills & Hawkesbury Parramatta Penrith Valley Lower Blue Mountains Farm Trails Wentworth Falls Leura Village Katoomba Mount Tomah Main Map Blackheath to Mt Victoria Wallerawang & Portland Hartley & Surrou nds Lithgow Taste the Blue Mountains Coffee Oberon Bathurst to Mudgee Orange Molong What’s on Markets

FREE Information Guide

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the latest from our new website

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Celebrate this Mother’s day at the Fairmont Resort! Mothers Day Lunch Sunday 12th May 2013 - 12:30pm to 3pm Jamisons Restaurant International gourmet buffet with seafood Mothers receives a glass of Sparkling Wine $79 per adult & $35 per child (5 to 12yrs) Note: Only a 10% discount will be applicable for Accor Advantage card holders. Bookings essential - Please phone +61 2 4785 0000

Mothers Day High Tea Sunday 12th May 2013 - 12pm to 2pm

Sublime Lounge & Mistys ERIENCE SUBLIME HIGH NEW A glass of Sparkling Wine included DEVONSHIRE TEA $55per person AT FAIRMONT RESORT’S $5 goes to Women's Health and Resource Centre Katoomba $12 per person Note: No Advantage & Plus discounts applicable. LIME LOUNGE BAR… Bookings essential - Please phone +61 2 4785 0000 Mon-Fri 10-5pm.

EXPERIENCE SUBLIME HIGH TEA AT FAIRMONT RESORT’S SUBLIME LOUNGE & BAR…

2 DIVINE freshly baked scones accomp with strawberry jam & cream. Includes coffee and tea. Fairmont NEW

DEVONSHIRE TEA SUBLIME HIGH $12 per person $45 per person, Mon-Fri 10-5pm.

TEA

or $50 per person w sparkling wine. 2 glass DIVINE of freshly baked scones accompanied with strawberry jam & cream. Sat-Sun, 12-3pm Includes coffee and tea.

A refined petite cake and sandwich sele SUBLIME HIGHorTEA includes coffee tea.

$45 per person, or $50 per person with a glass of sparkling wine. Bookings are essential for high tea service, Sat-Sun, 12-3pm contact Fairmont Reservations on 4785 000 Ato refined petite cake and sandwich selection, make your booking. includes coffee or tea.

Bookings are essential for high tea service, 1 Sublime Point Road, on Leura contact Fairmont Reservations 4785NSW 0000 2780 toCall make4785 your booking. 0000 for more information

reservations@fairmontresort.com.au 1 Sublime Point Road, Leura NSW 2780 Call 4785 0000 for more information reservations@fairmontresort.com.au

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Howe House, Hawkesbury Regional Museum, Windsor © Tourism NSW

Hills & Hawkesbury In March 1788, Governor Arthur Phillip set off to find more suitable land for agriculture and travelled up the Hawkesbury River as far as Dangar Island. He returned the following year and navigated the river to a point

upstream of Windsor. Governor Phillip and his party reached this area by boat on 6th July 1789 and named it Green Hills. He was impressed with its farming potential and quickly arranged for food production to begin in order to relieve the shortages in Port Jackson. Governor Macquarie named the settlement Windsor in 1810. This was the start of the Hawkesbury Hills District, still a rich production area for food and a wonderful playground. Visit the Information Centres throughout the Hills Hawkesbury area for more information. Surrounded by 10 National parks an hour’s drive from Sydney, the area provides a wide range of recreational pursuits. Encircled by noteworthy national parks - Dharug to the north and east, Yengo to the north-west, Cattai to the west, and Marramarra to the south Wisemans Ferry is a rustic village on one of the country's most famous waterways.

Explore the Hawkesbury

Sunday Lunchtime Jazz

$49 pp for 3 hrs of jazz and lunch! Top quality resort with a country feel So many different Maygreat 26 things to do! Perfect for all your Special Occasions

Paul Furniss Quartet - Jazz Old Style June 16 New Young Northside Big Band July 21 Geoff Power - Christmas in July Jazz Style

There is so much to see and do in the Hawkesbury – beautiful scenery, national parks, majestic rivers, quiet secret places, historic townships and heritage buildings. It is an easy drive one hour north-west of Sydney, making it an ideal Sydney day trip or weekend getaway. As a longer stay destination, make sure you take time to relax and experience what the Hawkesbury has to offer, including opportunities to visit galleries and artist studios or enjoy the rural atmosphere and buy seasonal produce direct from the grower. To help you explore the Hawkesbury at your leisure we can offer you directions for self drive tours which highlight what the area has to offer. Your journey begins at Windsor or Clarendon. Phone or email us for a free information pack:

Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre

Ham Common, Hawkesbury Valley Way, Clarendon (opposite RAAF base) Ph: 02 4578 0233 or 1300 362 874 Email: hawkesburytourism@pacific.net.au Web: www.hawkesburytourism.com.au Spatial Images Photography 2010 ©

Bookings essential For a great range of deals visit www.wisemans.com.au or call (02) 45 66 44 22 Rate valid for bookings from June - August 2011, subject to availability. * Conditions apply

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What to See & Do Macquarie Arms Hotel 1815 Windsor Court House 1821 The Toll House built in 1835 St Monicas Church opened in 1859 Richmond Court House 1877 Macquarie Schoolhouse 1819 Ebenezer Church built – Australia’s oldest church 1809 Check out Berowra Waters Go horse riding close to home Stay in a romantic B&B and get away from it all Walk the Great North Road, built by convicts in chain gangs Check out the local art scene Fish in the Hawkesbury River Ride across the river on the Webbs Creek Ferry Visit Wisemans Ferry Anglican Church Self guided tour of Wisemans Ferry, history and sites Bushwalk through Dharug National Park – remember comfy shoes! Drive across the Wisemans Ferry

Walk along the Wisemans jetty and spot the fish Visit the award-winning regional museum and Visit Hawkesbury Regional Gallery VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Historic Mungerie House Bellcast Road, Rouse Hill (off Windsor Rd) Phone 8814 6909 www.hhart.com.au info@hhart.com.au

...will take you there!

Hawkesbury History and Landscape Museum turns five It doesn’t seem like five years ago since the opening of Hawkesbury Regional Museum in Windsor, but it is, and in that short space of time the museum has notched up quite a few successes. It has won six major awards, including Best Cultural and Heritage Tourism Attraction in Greater Sydney, a NSW Government Volunteer Heritage Award, and a Local Government award for best Cultural Infrastructure. It has also received a Highly Commended award for Collection Management. Small wonder that visitors have been flocking to the museum in their thousands, and filling the visitors’ book with compliments. The museum will celebrate with an open weekend of talks, entertainment and a sausage sizzle on 25-26 May from 10am to 4pm. All welcome. Enquiries: (02) 4560 4655 or museum@hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au

printmaking generally. One of this country’s most accomplished woodcut artists has again managed to create an ambitious and all embracing body of work that marks an important development in his own art, as well as bring us another vision of that great,

enduring theme of Australian art – the Australian landscape.’ You can meet the artist and enjoy drinks on the gallery terrace afterwards at 3pm on Saturday 4 May. This is a free event but bookings are essential. Phone (02) 4560 4441.

Cox in the Hawkesbury Hawkesbury Historical Society will be offering those who would like to know more about William Cox the opportunity of joining a guided tour through the Hawkesbury, where the man known as ‘Cox the builder’ has left his stamp on some of the district’s finest buildings. The tour will take in the magnificent Windsor Court House and St Matthews Rectory, as well as his patriarchal home, Fairfield. The tour will be held on Sunday 26 May. For more information phone (02) 4577 3842 or email reservations@hawkesburyhistory.net.au

Salvatore Zofrea, Banksia

Salvatore Zofrea: Days of Summer An exhibition that has been 20 years in the making continues at Hawkesbury Regional Gallery in Windsor till 19 May. ‘Days of Summer’ by Salvatore Zofrea has been described by Anne Ryan, Curator of Australian Prints at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, as ‘a masterful achievement in Salvatore Zofrea’s oeuvre, and Australian www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Be Relieved

19th International “Back to Back” Wool Challenge & Apple Pie Bake-Off At Farm Panaroma, Sunday, 2nd June, 2013 After 8 very happy & successful years at The Turpentine Tree, Kurrajong Handspun Crafts Inc. will be hosting the “Back to Back” at the new venue – Farm Panaroma, 2570 Bells Line of Road, Bilpin, (next to Bilpin Hall) – the 50 acre farm, owned by Sean & Manoo, providing organic produce for their restaurant, Sean’s Panaroma in Bondi. Most of the activities will be “same of usual” – including the Apple Pie Bake-Off, judged by Sean and the winning pies auctioned, craft & local produce stalls, kids activities with wool, “Tai Chi in the Wolllemi” demonstrations, live music, lots of farm animals & more. Parking will be in the grounds of the Hall with a walkway to all the action. Shearing starts at 8am, winning pies

announced around 11am, followed by the auction. Food includes Mt. Tomah BBQ bonanza, Sean’s wood fired roast, Bilpin School goodies & more. The “Back to Back” Challenge is for a team of eight (blade shearer & seven spinners & knitters) to shear a sheep, spin the wool and complete a sweater (identical adult size pattern worldwide) in 8 hours. Hopefully we can meet the challenge! Entry: Gold Coin donation – all money raised for Cancer Council NSW (Prostate Cancer Research). Last year we raised over $11,000 - let’s do even better this year! “Back to Back” enquires: Ring Dawne: 4567 1215 Email: grenrose@bigpond.net.au Apple Pie Bake-Off enquires: Ring Carole: 4567 1317

Balanced Essentials is an Australianowned aromatherapy company devoted to health and wellbeing, using the highest quality therapeutic essential oils in its extensive range of natural products for the face and body. Results of our ground-breaking research on our pain-relief products, BE Relieved and BE Sport, were featured on Channel 9's A Current Affair. BE Relieved is a topical application that is applied to the area where pain is located to help treat pain and inflammation. It is beneficial at night when you need a good night's sleep to help with recovery as it contains active ingredients that are sedative in nature. $59.50 inc. GST

Hey - May is Mother's Day Month! Mothers are too special to spoil for only a day, so take advantage of the 'No Kittens - Free Mittens' special offer. When you stay for two consecutive nights during May, 'Mother' will receive a complimentary pair of Australian Alpaca fingerless gloves (doesn't really rhyme with kittens does it). These are genuine 'Hand made in Australia' gloves that will keep her warm all winter and remind her every day of how much you love her. Delight her taste buds with a delicious Devonshire Tea on your arrival or plunge them into a brew of locally roasted and

freshly ground coffee. Cuddle up with the adorable Dreamwood Border Collies who will be so happy to meet you, then explore the Estate's five acres on the evening alpaca walk. You can come during the week or on the weekend, the price doesn't change and it's really not so far from home. Peter and Donna hope you make this May memorable for Mum at our farm call them on (02) 4576 5711. 21 Griffins Road Tennyson. www.facebook.com/dreamwoodestate

BE RELIEVED - Natural Pain Relief - Arthritis - Back Pain/Sciatica - Headaches/Migraine - Cuts & Abrasions - Insect Bites & Stings As Seen On A Current Affair 3050 Old Northern Road, Glenorie www.aroma.com.au - be@aroma.com.au

Phone 9652 0555

Dreamwood Estate Bed and Breakfast

Simple things made special...

21 Griffins Road, Tennyson 02 4576 5711

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bookings.dreamwoodinternational.com

New Koala Joeys arrive at Featherdale Not all babies are spring babies, with Featherdale Wildlife Park recently welcoming the birth of five Koala Joeys. The joeys are part of Featherdale’s managed captive breeding program which has successfully bred more than 200 Koalas over the last 41 years. The Park houses over 40 Koalas and provides daily free encounters where visitors are invited to get right up close and interact with these beautiful animals. These days, it is often unusual to see a Koala in the wild which makes these encounters a truly memorable experience. Featherdale’s latest arrivals are just 4 months old, however it will still be a month before they pop their heads out of the pouch and begin to explore their surroundings. The Koala breeding season takes place between August and

February and gestation occurs for 35 days before the Koala Joey is born. The tiny baby which is roughly 2 centimetres long and weighs less than 1 gram, looks rather like a pink jellybean as it is totally hairless, blind and has no ears. It must make its own way to the comfort and protection of its Mother’s pouch using smell and touch. Once in the pouch, the Joey will rely on its Mother’s milk for 6 months. From about 30 weeks, it begins to feed upon a substance called “pap” which the mother produces in addition to milk. Pap is a form of droppings, which forms an important part of the Joey’s diet, allowing it to make the transition from milk to eucalyptus leaves. Featherdale has a number of Eucalypt plantations on properties in Western Sydney and staff must go out daily to pick fresh tips which are the only leaves the Koalas will eat. As threats to wild Koala populations increase, it is vitally important that Wildlife institutions such as Featherdale play a conservation role in highlighting the plight of the species. Road fatalities and introduced species such as dogs have decimated Koala numbers. However, it is the destruction of habitats through land clearing, bushfires and diseases of the eucalypts, such as ‘dieback’, which have caused the greatest threat to the species. Did you know: Koalas are mostly nocturnal and can sleep between 18-20 hours per day. Koalas do not sleep all day because they

become drunk or stoned on Eucalyptus leaves. Most of their time is spent sleeping because it requires a lot of energy to digest their toxic, fibrous diet and sleeping is the best way to conserve energy. Koalas are not bears but are MARSUPIALS, which means that their young are born immature & they develop further in the safety of a pouch. As Spring approaches, Featherdale will also welcome a variety of bird babies, Reptiles and Kangaroo and Wallaby Joeys to its family. Featherdale is located at 217 Kildare Road Doonside and is open 9am to 5pm daily. Visit www.featherdale.com.au or call 02 9622 1644 for more information. Find us on Facebook! Photographs by Sam Donkin

a wildlife encounter like no other

for Cuddle up to a Koaladay FREE at anytime of encounter Enjoy a face to face bats, om with Crocodiles, W Tasmanian Devils... Open daily 9am-5pm (closed Christmas Day) een tw be ay idw m d te ca Lo ountains 217 Kildare Road, Doonside, Sydney NSW 2767 Sydney & the Blue M www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Parramatta Parramatta was founded in 1788 by Governor Arthur Phillip as a western outlying farm colony of Sydney. Initially it was called Rose Hill and was renamed Parramatta, an Aboriginal word meaning “head of waters,” or “the place where eels lie down”, the year after it was proclaimed a town in 1790. It was incorporated as a municipality in 1861, became a city in 1938 and was expanded in 1948, 1959, and 1972 by the inclusion of surrounding centres. Now Parramatta is a city within Sydney’s metropolitan area. It lies along the 15-mile or 24-km Parramatta River,

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au which enters Port Jackson harbour. The Parramatta River Cat ferry takes passengers from Parramatta to Sydney along the River. The River Cat is a scenic and relaxing way to explore the waterways . Ferries are cheap and certainly a fast and pleasant way to travel all over Sydney. There are many pleasant places to eat, shop and even go to the theatre along the Parramatta River, not to mention stroll, fish or simply relax. Parramatta is famous for a wide variety of retail and dining options! Parramatta has many historic buildings, including Elizabeth Farm (Built in 1793, it

NATURAL HISTORY in Parramatta James Bond was an American Ornithologist (someone who studies birds) who wrote the classic field identification book “The Birds of the West Indies”. When Ian Fleming wrote ‘Casino Royale’ in 1952 at his home in Jamaica he needed a name for his fictitious spy and, seeing Bond’s book in his library, decided to ‘borrow’ the author’s name. Andrew Patrick from Cumberland Bird Observers Club will give the illustrated talk ‘How the Rosella got its name’, at the Thursday lunchtime talk, May 9, in Hambledon Coach House at 12.30pm. Bring your lunch and Parramatta & District Historical Society will give you a cup of tea or coffee whilst you listen to the story and view the dozens of beautiful parrots and birds of the Australian bush pictured by Andrew. Andrew conducts individuals and group tours through his company ‘zestforbirds’ to selected sites around Parramatta and Sydney to view native and visiting birds from as far away as Siberia. The Bunya Pine tree and the native Plum Pine in Hambledon Cottage Reserve, Gregory Place, are producing their fruits and the birds are flocking to feed. Come to the reserve and you will see King Parrots, Crimson Rosellas, and Corellas. [as pictured] The guided tour of Hambledon Cottage conducted by volunteers from Parramatta & District Historical Society on Thursday to Sunday, 11am to 4pm, always includes a visit to the garden and is only $6 per adult and $2 per child. Group tours always welcome. Telephone 9654-2224, 98714155 or 9635-6924.

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is the nation’s oldest surviving European building). Old Government House (Built in 1799, it is the oldest public building in Australia). Experiment Farm Cottage (Built in 1834 it is the site of the first land grant). Hambledon Cottage (Built in 1824 by John and Elizabeth Macarthur for Penelope Lucas, governess to the Macarthur children.The Kings School (1832). As Parramatta is once again becoming a more important city centre and larger business buildings are being built, fascinating pieces of Parramatta’s past are being literally unearthed. In the foyer of some of the new buildings you will see glass around what was discovered and in the Justice Precinct you will find the remains of the earliest convict hospitals on display. The Parramatta Visitor Information Centre can tell you more about where to find these or for more information visit www. parracity.nsw.gov.au

What to See & Do

Try the ferry. A beautiful way to get around a lot of places. Take a walk in Parramatta park with its historic gatehouse, ponds and Old Government House, the oldest surviving government building in the country, finely furnished. Check out Riverside theatres and restaurant. Take a walk along the river while you’re there. Visit Experiment Farm and Elizabeth Farm. Olympic Park is an experience in itself, close to Parramatta, on the ferry. Parramatta Farmers’ Markets, produce, arts, crafts and more. VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE 346A Church St, Parramatta Ph: (02) 8839 3311 Fax: (02) 8839 3301 Email: discoverparramatta@ parracity.nsw.gov.au

...will take you there!

Penrith Valley It’s always a pleasure to welcome visitors to Penrith Valley. It’s the harmony of urban and rural lifestyles, our rivers, mountains and lakes, great shopping, educational facilities, entertainment and diverse housing choices that make Penrith Valley a great place to live, work, visit and invest. Located 55 kilometres west of Sydney, Penrith Valley is the place where two of Greater Sydney’s most spectacular features converge. One is the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains; the other is the Nepean River, one of eastern Australia’s great rivers. These natural features give Penrith Valley a relaxed, rural feeling, with the benefit of city standard facilities available in the City of Penrith. Penrith Valley has a full range of activities and events to make your stay, enjoyable, relaxing and exciting. Try whitewater rafting, cycling, boating or have a picnic by the water. For some retail therapy explore the many markets, pick up a bargain at a factory outlet or visit one of our major retail shopping centres. For a cultural experience, take in a show or spend the afternoon at our art gallery. In the evening, check out the local nightclubs, the various live entertainment venues, a woolshed dance or the cinema complex. There is something on offer to suit all ages and tastes.

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Financial counselling service to support local Aborignal community Aboriginal communities in Western Sydney will soon be supported by a team of qualified Aboriginal Financial Counsellors, thanks to funding from the NSW Fair Trading Financial Counselling Services Program. “This funding will enable us to expand our services in Penrith and launch the program in Blacktown and Campbelltown, supporting a wide range of people in areas of great need”, said Muru Mittigar Community Finance Hub Manager, Graham Smith. Situated on Old Castlereagh Road, Penrith, the Muru Mittigar Community Finance Hub forms part of the Indigenous Money Mentor Network, a national program supported by the NAB Bank, providing financial counselling and the Aboriginal specific ‘No Interest Loans Scheme’ (NILS®). Muru Mittigar Aboriginal Cultural and Education Centre is a not-for-profit organisation which provides financial counselling, training and employment and a meeting place for sharing cultures. For further information contact (02) 4729 2377 or visit www.murumittigar.com.

...will take you there!

Visit the award winning Muru Mittigar Aboriginal Cultural Centre for a range of authentic experiences Visit the excellent Penrith City Library Enjoy a Family Astronomy Night at the local observatory Penrith’s riverside parks provide wonderful places for a family picnic Attend a performance at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre Penrith RSL have an amazing range of performers Check out Model Park Open Day for model trains, planes, boats & cars in action Cruise on the Nepean River aboard either the Nepean Belle or Penrith Platypus Visit the Sydney International Regatta Centre 2000 Sydney Olympics’ venue Follow either the Farmgate or the Heritage Trails around Penrith Valley Enjoy one of the many cafes and restaurants in Penrith Valley Sport of all kinds may be enjoyed in Penrith in all seasons Muru Mittigar means ‘Pathway to Friends’ in the Darug language (the Traditional Aboriginal custodians of our area). Muru Mittigar enables you to participate and interact with members of the local Aboriginal community through a range of exciting educational and enriching cultural activities on offer, including boomerang throwing, bush tucker walks, traditional art and cultural talks. Prices start at $26 per adult and $15 per child.

Check with Penrith Council for details of their celebrations of the Bicentenary of the Crossing of the Blue Mountains

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Panthers Carpark, Mulgoa Road, Penrith Open 7 days 9am – 4.30pm Email: pentour@penrithcity.nsw.gov.au www.penrithvalley.com.au Ph: 1300 736 836

What to See & Do

Muru Mittigar Aboriginal Cultural and Education Centre Gate 1, 89-151 Old Castlereagh Rd, Penrith

www.murumittigar.com.au

TO MAKE A BOOKING For further information on Muru Mittigar’s Aboriginal Cultural Education Workshops, or to make a booking, please call us on (02) 4729 2377 or email bookings@murumittigar.com.au

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Lower Blue Mountains Across the Nepean River through Emu Plains, Leonay and Lapstone, travel west along the Great Western Highway to Glenbrook to reach the Blue Mountains Tourist Information Centre on the left of the highway. The start of the Blue Mountains includes the lovely villages of Lapstone, Glenbrook, Blaxland, Springwood and Lawson. This area features impressive waterfalls, swimming holes, national park walks and art & craft galleries. Blaxland, named after explorer Gregory Blaxland (1771-1852) provides the opportunity to examine Lennox Bridge. Built in 1883, it formed part of the Great Western Highway until 1926. Springwood follows Warrimoo and Valley Heights and was the first town

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named in the Blue Mountains, second only in size to Katoomba. Faulconbridge follows, famous home of Norman Lindsay and the burial site of Sir Henry Parkes, the “Father of Federation”. Continuing higher are Linden, the smallest mountain community, Woodford of the Woodford Academy and the Bulls Camp, now a pleasant picnic spot and leash free area, then Hazelbrook home to Selwood Science. We then reach Lawson, named after explorer William Lawson (1774-1850).

SPRINGWOOD

Winner of the

2009

CLUB and

ENTERTAINMENT

VENUE OF THE YEAR

age Volt how h g Hi , gS tnin child-$5 , Ligh 8 25 lts-$ Adu amily-$ f

Selwood Science Membership: 1 year $10 5 years $40 Featuring

*Indoor and Alfresco Dining Areas *Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials *Superb Function Rooms *FREE Live Entertainment Fri and Sat *Poker, Trivia, Raffles and Bingo *Gaming Lounge *2 Bowling Greens *Courtesy Bus 83 Macquarie Road, Springwood NSW 2777 Tel:( 02) 4751 1298 Fax (02) 4751 2295 Email: admin@springwoodsports.com.au www.springwoodsports.com.au

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& Puzzles

Hands on Fun for all the Family OPEN 10am - 4pm Thurs - Sun.

OPEN Every Day in School Holidays except Christmas, Boxing, New Years Day, Good Friday & Anzac Day

Ph 4758 6235

www.selwoodscience.com.au 41 Railway Pde, Hazelbrook

What to See & Do

Start at the Glenbrook Visitor Centre Do you know that the giant bolts in the rocks as you begin to climb the Mountains are there to stabilise the Lapstone Monocline ? The walking track from John Whitton Memorial Place leads you to the Knapsack Viaduct. (Lapstone) Bluff Lookout (on the boundary of Glenbrook and Lapstone) overlooks the Glenbrook Gorge and Glenbrook Creek. Adjacent to Warrimoo Station is Ardill Park, which has been recently relandscaped and is a great resting place for the family. Don’t miss the Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum, Ride the Valley Heights Tram. Selwood Science is a must visit for all ages for fun fascination and information. Spend some time at the Norman Lindsay Gallery Museum garden and café for food for the soul and body.

The Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum A magnificent collection of paintings, sculpture and ship models displayed in the artist’s former home. • Landscaped Grounds • Cafe • Specialist Print and Book Shop • Home of ‘The Magic Pudding’

Open Daily 10am to 4pm (02) 4751 1067

(turn under the railway bridge at the traffic lights at Hazelbrook then left to 41 Railway Parade)

free general admission to the hands-on museum, displays & shop

Puzzles · Science Kits · Books · Displays

National Trust

14 Norman Lindsay Cres. Faulconbridge

Gateway to the Blue Mountains

As you enter into the beautiful Blue Mountains, take the opportunity to call into the Glenbrook Visitor Information Centre to gather the information you will need to make the most out of your visit to the area. Friendly knowledgeable staff will help you with everything from bushwalking & adventure to dining & accommodation.

Glenbrook Visitor Information Centre

• Friendly personalised service • Free booking service for tours & accommodation • Great range of souvenirs & gift items • Coach parking, toilets & undercover picnic tables • Accessible toilet and baby change table • Large park with playground and BBQ facilities • Personal locator beacons (PLB) available to borrow. • Coffee and hot chocolate available • Wi-Fi access available Short walk to local boutiques and shops Great Western Highway, Glenbrook Centre Open 8.30am to 4pm Mon to Sat & 8.30am to 3pm Sun (Closed Christmas day) Phone: 1300 653 408 Email: glenbrook@bmcc.nsw.gov.au Website: www.bluemountainscitytourism.com.au

w w w. h a a t . c o m . a u

Farm Trails... Cafe trading hours

• • • • •

Tuesday to Friday 10am - 2.30pm Harvest Festival April 28 9.30am - 3.30pm A fun day out for the whole family! Mothers Day May 12 Penrith City Council Historical Festival May 19 To celebrate the Bicentenary of the crossing of the Blue Mountains Mamre Magic- activities for people of all abilities May 30 Farm Tours and Conservation walks by appointment 02 96705321 See our Website for more information

Open every day except Monday. 181 MAMRE RD ORCHARD HILLS Tel: 02 9670 6178 www.mamre.com.au

Unique 170 year old abattoir on-site and working. Both local and NSW beef, Lamb, Pork and Goat with occasional Seasonal prawns and a great variety of sausages. M&A Butchery 62 King Road, Wilberforce Unbeatable prices. Mon-Fri 7.00-6.00 Sat 7.00-2.00

02 4575 1233

Set in 8 ha of manicured, landscaped gardens, a perfect environment for business or pleasure, the romantic weekend escape, conference venue or special event. An array of facilities and services including the renowned Villa Thalgo Day Spa, Harvest Restaurant for a la carte dining or the Gazebo Restaurant for a light snack. "We also offer an excellent High Tea!" 61 Hawkesbury Valley Way, Windsor, NSW 2756 Phone 02 4577 4222

www.sebelhawkesbury.com.au www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Wentworth Falls

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Wentworth Falls, one of the most beautiful Blue Mountains towns, offers possibly the most spectacular bushwalks and views. Originally called ‘Weatherboard’ after the ‘Weatherboard Hut’ built in 1814, a year later the town was named ‘Jamison’s Valley’ by Governor Macquarie. In July 1867 the historic first railway journey in the Blue Mountains left Penrith station and travelled through to Weatherboard Station where the train terminated. It wasn’t until 1879 that the name was changed to Wentworth Falls in honour of William Charles Wentworth. The area known as ‘Kings Tableland’ offers

almost haunting views. Care must be taken within this area to preserve the ancient Aboriginal site, Kings Table. It has been calculated via carbon dating that the land was occupied some 22,000 years ago! Further west along the Great Western Highway on the north side is Pitt Park and the Wentworth Falls School of Arts. ‘The Bathurst Traveller’, later renamed ‘Weatherboard Inn’ was an inn Built in 1826 at Pitt Park. Charles Darwin, the renowned scientist was reported to have stayed here around 1836.

What to See & Do

Must Visit Bygone Beautys

(closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, New Year's Day); open 10.00 am - 5.30 pm; last orders 5.00 pm, 4.30 pm for Traditional High Teas. Please book for Traditional High Teas. I adore their High Teas which are really something special and not just at weekends either. Bygone Beautys also serves great coffee, light lunches or snacks. Located in the picturesque Blue Mountains at 20–22 Grose Street in the village of Leura, the original c.1917 building presents beautifully, especially the extensively landscaped grounds facing the street.

Visitors can purchase the estate jewellery (gold, silver and diamonds), antiques, collectables and contemporary quality gifts scattered throughout the emporium. The proprietor of Bygone Beautys is Mr Maurice Cooper OAM, often referred to as "The Teapot Man", easily identified by his bowtie. The teapot collection was begun in 1974 and ninety percent of all items in the collection were acquired within Australia. The collection has now grown to more than 4,000 teapots, with 3,000 on display – and still growing!

You must visit Bygone Beautys. If you are driving up, turn left off the Great Western Highway just after Wentworth Falls at the big leafy sign to Leura for a bit of a scenic wander. So great is the appeal of Bygone Beautys that both major local tourist bus operators have made Bygone Beautys an official stop for all their passengers. Don’t forget your camera! This place such a wonderful experience you won’t want to miss recording your enjoyment. Bygone Beautys is open 7 days a week

With the numerous spectacular walks and views within Wentworth Falls, visitors should allow at least a day to enjoy the area at leisure. From Falls Road start the Charles Darwin Walk. The Darwin walk is well sign posted leading from the Great Western Highway, and along Falls Road. It’s a superb full day walk from Whispering Pines to what the Gundungurra people call The Seven Sisters at Echo Point.

Come and visit...

Bygone Beautys

Antiques & Tearoom and see the amazing

Treasured Teapot Collection “World’s largest Private Collection”

20 - 22 Grose St, Leura Ph: 4784 3117 Fax: 4784 3078 Open 7 Days 10am - 5.30pm

www.bygonebeautys.com.au

Come in & enjoy our famous Devonshire Tea

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Established in the Blue Mountains in 1989, Falls Gallery continues to provide a constantly changing exhibition of works on paper and ceramics by emerging and wellestablished artists. The directors of the Gallery are Ian Smith, a potter and Anne Smith, a painter and printmaker. The Gallery is situated in a beautifully restored early 1900’s weatherboard cottage. It is surrounded by a wonderfully peaceful haven of almost an acre of mountain gardens. The couple were drawn to the area over twenty years ago after seeing the vista of Wentworth Falls from the lookout nearby Falls Gallery. Anne Smith has been a finalist in the National Print Awards, Tweed River Gallery, Mulwillumbah and in the World Art mini print Exhibition in Bulgaria. The National Gallery, Canberra has some of her etchings in their permanent collection, as part of the Sydney Printmakers Portfolio of etchings. Her paintings have been hung in the Blake Exhibition and The Portia Geach Memorial Exhibition. Anne Smith has had numerous solo exhibitions in Australia, England and Japan. As well as producing her own

work Anne Smith has collaborated with Wendy Sharpe, Garry Shead, Bernard Ollis and the late Alan Peascod on editions of their etchings. Ian Smith began making studio ceramics in London in the late 1960’s. Among his early influences were the work of Lucie Rie, Dan Arbied, Bernard Leach and Hamada. He designed and built his gas fired brick kiln in the Blue Mountains in the late 80’s and has been making ceramics and running Falls Gallery since that time. Ian and Anne Smith were awarded the Port Hacking Potters Group (Cesco Award) in 2000 for a platter made by Ian Smith and decorated by Anne Smith. Ian Smith has been collaborating with Wendy Sharpe and Bernard Ollis over recent years. Ian has been wheel throwing large vessels and platters which they paint using underglaze colours, these are subsequently glazed and fired in the pottery studio at Falls Gallery. Among the works on display in the Gallery are etchings by Garry Shead, Wendy Sharpe, Arthur Boyd, Max Miller, Anne Smith, Charles Blackman, John Olsen and Bernard Ollis, together with ceramics by Ian Smith and Andrew Halford.

161 falls rd, wentworth falls, nsw 2782 phone / fax: 02 4757 1139 hours: 10am –5pm Wednesday to Sunday www.fallsgallery.com.au www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Leura Village You’ve reached what is now referred to as the Upper Blue Mountains, where cool climate plants are the focus of many a garden. Rivalling Katoomba as the most visited location in the Blue Mountains, Leura offers The Mall, a shoppers paradise alive with coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, galleries. Bygone Beautys has something for everyone from refreshments to die for to the most amazing range of antiques and collectables that this place is a whole experience in itself. A range of exquisite yet affordable delights await you here. Renomee is the delightful cottage in the Leura carpark also accessible from 152 Megalong Street. They sell quality

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au new and recycled unique clothing, specialising in contemporary recycle and one-off. Pauline also stocks a superb range of Japanese kimonos and haoris. There are designer shoes and accessories as well. With new stock arriving regularly, the shop is simply a delight and inspiration. I have found stunning new designer outfits here as well as some old favourites at very affordable prices. Megalong Books has the most amazing range of the most amazing books on so many subjects I keep wondering how they do it! The staff are also so knowledgeable and helpful. Come to Leura just for fun or for some really serious bargains… but come you must… it is so special!

Leura Country Casuals Leura Country Casuals are receiving their winter stock in their new shop, a combination of fine knits, vests and shirts. By Easter they will have some amazing new things. Clients coming to the new shop can’t believe how

183 The Mall, Leura (02) 4784 1302

Email: books@megalongbooks.com.au Web: www.megalongbooks.com.au General and Children’s Bookshop Blue Mountains History, Maps and Guidebooks DVDs and Classical Music CDs Orders Taken Open 7 days

The best books in the mountains!

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nice it is and what a fresh look they have in the spacious area. Somehow the extra space has given the friendly staff a whole new lease on life! They look forward to warmly welcoming you soon.

What to See & Do

Toy and Railway Museum, located within Leuralla mansion. The museum features Australia’s largest collection of toys, dolls, teddy bears and model railways, located on the corner of Olympian Parade and Balmoral Road. Opposite the Toy and Railway Museum is Olympian Park featuring a natural amphitheatre with spectacular views. Gardens, Shopping, Food and Art! Awesome views from Sublime Point Leura Cascades along Cliff Drive is a peaceful setting for a family picnic or BBQ From the Cascades you can leisurely walk to several waterfalls including Leura, Linda, Lila and Bridal Veil Falls. You can also walk to Copelands Lookout and Flying Fox Lookout. Mount Hay Road takes you to the beautiful untouched Mount Hay region Along Cliff Drive, bush walks can lead you to the Pool of Siloam and Lyrebird Dell while the famous Prince Henry Cliff Walk will take you to the spectacular Katoomba Falls.

THE SHIRT LADY Leura Country Casuals We have moved across the road to a larger premises! You must visit us soon! Aspect Arcade, Shop 2-3/166, The Mall, Leura Ph/fax: (02) 4784 1389 Email: shirtladyshop@bigpond.com

'The Shirt Lady'. Exclusive Australian and imported shirts and knitwear for men and women. Assorted knitwear (alpaca, possum and merino, lambswool, angora, cashmere, fine merino cotton) as well as scarves, gloves, coats, jackets and vests. Long sleeve, short sleeve and three quarter sleeve shirts. Widely considered to be the best shirt shop in Australia. Worth a visit! You will not be disappointed.

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House BRIT Before Leura Village was born, Leura AIN GR LOCAL L IN K R D EA ST T House the grand old lady of Leura was WEST ERN RA I LW built as the first and finest home in the AY area. An expansive Victorian Italianate PD WAY E RAIL mansion at the top of Leura Mall she stands on Leura’s highest point with QUEENS AV MEGALO NG views as far as Sydney. From the heyday of a fashionable CRAIGE ND gentleman’s residence, to a prayerful convent and the miraculous sole survivor of the Leura fires, stories of this BEATTIE residence weave their web of intrigue ST ISABEL on the intrepid traveller. For the past 20 MALVERN PACKER ST RD years Leura House has offered visitors deluxe guesthouse accommodation with her 12 guestrooms, restaurant, conference centre, lounge bar, Priest’s D GORDO N cottage and wedding gardens. Gordon Falls RD Reserve Bridal Veil View O Through the decades of Leura’s Lookout LY MP IAN development Leura House has become a hidden gem and a must see for those Gordon r y Cliff Wa PDE lk Falls not yet acquainted with her imposing grace. Gordon Falls

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Romantic Historic Retreat Circa 1880

AUTUMN SPECIALS

Spacious rooms, private en-suites, balconies, baths, verandas and views. Built on Leura’s highest point and surrounded by English gardens, Leura House is located at the top of Leura Village close to all the famous tourist attractions. A 3 bedroom cottage is also available.

Weddings, Parties, Conferences.

Ph: (02) 4784 2035 7 Britain Street, Leura

w w w. l e u r a h o u s e . c o m www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Katoomba Katoomba has something for everyone: entertainment, art galleries, restaurants, trendy cafes, shopping, antiques and collectables, walks and activities, not to mention its being surrounded by ancient natural beauty. The Seven Sisters Of the Gundungurra people commonly referred to as The Three Sisters may be viewed from Echo Point. Many bushwalks start from this point, including the Three Sisters Walk and Giant Stairway.

News Flash! An exciting new venture has been unveiled in the heart of Leura. Lost Bear Gallery Shop is a retail space similar to those in public galleries and museums. It complements Katoomba’s Lost Bear Gallery, stocking a range of fine art prints, cards and small sculptures, ceramics and glass works from a selection of artists. Pictured here is an iconic David Beschi artwork, titled in These Shoes, which is available as a fine

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au In town, you’ll find an array of boutiques and all seasons clothing, as well as cosy dining experiences to suit all budgets and tastes.

What to See & Do Visit Echo Point Visitor Information Centre for information and views. Make time to absorb the wonders of the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre with its City Art Gallery, amazing interactive World Heritage Exhibition, art print, as well as a cheeky greeting card. Books, DVDs and catalogues of Lost Bear Gallery’s represented artists are also available. Located in the beautiful old Leura Post Office building, Lost Bear Gallery Shop is open daily and can be contacted on 4784 1440. www.lostbeargallery.com.au

Katoomba Library and the ever changing vistas from the viewing platform. An amazing range of programs, exhibitions and events as well as the Cultural Centre Shop and Café. Stay with us to enjoy our award winning area Visit Trolley Tours to book a great tour of your choice maybe including Jenolan Caves or even a horse ride.. Enjoy the art and culture walk. Eat in fine-dining restaurants or have coffee and cake in Art Deco cafés. Take a guided bushwalk, a 4WD drive, or learn to abseil – all in the splendour of this majestic wilderness area. Explore the thriving local art scene. Explore The Carrington Hotel, built in 1882, an elegant reminder of a bygone era, with its many events, one of only two superb Heritage Dining experiences in Australia (see pages 36 and 37). Visit The Scenic World Skyway.

Katoomba, Blue Mountains Echo Point Visitor Information Centre • Located at The Three Sisters • Friendly personalised service Destination for contemporary art in the Blue Mountains

• Free booking service for tours & accommodation • Coach parking, toilets & picnic tables close by • MLAK Accessible toilet • Great range of souvenirs & gift items • Personal locator beacons (PLB) available to borrow • Wi-Fi access available Echo Point Rd, Katoomba Open 9am - 5pm daily (Closed Christmas day) Phone: 1300 653 408 Email: glenbrook@bmcc.nsw.gov.au Website: www.bluemountainscitytourism.com.au

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BLUE MOUNTAINS CULTURAL CENTRE Located in the heart of Katoomba, Blue Mountains Cultural Centre encompasses the Blue Mountains City Art Gallery, World Heritage Exhibition and a viewing platform that takes in the stunning vistas of cm. Andrew Merry Valley of the Grose 2011, archivalpanoramic pigment print, 56 x 84 Katoomba and the Jamison Valley.

UNTAINS GALLERY

BLUE MOUNTAINS ADMISSION BLUE MOUNTAINS BLUE MO WORLD HERITAGE Entry to the Cultural Centre Shop, CITY ART GALLERY WORLD H INTERPRETIVE CENTRE Andrew Merry Valleyplatform of the Grose 2011, archival pigment print, 56 Café, and viewing is FREE. INTERPRE

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holidays • 30 and Parke Margaret Preston Brett Street, Whiteley. Katoomba

Margaret Preston and Brett Whiteley.

Open 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday, 10am –

10am – 5pm Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm Sat&&Sun Sun nOpen 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm Sat Open 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday, 4pm Sat• &30Sun Closed10am public–holidays Parke Street, Kato Open 10am –holidays 5pm Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm Sat & Sun Closed public • 30 Parke Street, Katoomba bmculturalcentre.com.au PublicKatoomba Holidays – 10am-2pm Closed public holidays • 30 Parke Street, sed public holidays • 30 Parke Street, Katoomba bmculturalcentre.com.au Closed public holidays • 30 Parke Street, Katoomba bmculturalcentre.com.au (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day)

CAVES DOWN UNDER TOURS

Jenolan Caves

TROLLEY TOURS

Experience one of the World’s ﬁnest cave systems with underground rivers and spectacular limestone formations. Coach tour departs Katoomba 9.45am. Daily (return to Katoomba daily by 5.00pm). Coach tour includes informative commentary. (Coach does not operate Christmas Day).

RETURN COACH TRAVEL TO JENOLAN CAVES (Does not include caves tour)

Concession $48

Child $36

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + ADMISSION TO LUCAS CAVE Concession $71

Child $63

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + ADMISSION TO ORIENT CAVE Concession $75

Child $67

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + ADMISSION TO LUCAS & ORIENT CAVES Concession $98

Child $90

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + PLUG HOLE ADVENTURE CAVING Concession $135

53 82 88 119 140 $

AT BOOK ONLINE COM.AU LEYTOURS. WWW.TROL

2 DAY

Per Adult

Adult All Day Trolley Tours Ride plus unlimited rides on Scenic Railway / Cableway and Skyway at Scenic World. (Valid 1 day only). Concession $126 /

Per Adult

ONE WAY COACH TRAVEL TO CAVES

Child $92

$35 CONCESSION / $25 CHILD

Per Adult

(overnight accommodation also available see www.trolleytours.com.au for details)

Bookings are essentialat and can be made online au www.trolleytours.com.

OPEN 7 DAYS

76 MAIN STREET KATOOMBA

(Opposite Pedestrian Crossing at Katoomba Railway Station)

PH: 02 4782 7999 info@trolleytours.com.au

Per Adult

OTHER CAVE INSPECTION OPTIONS AVAILABLE. (Pre-booking required. Tour cancellation conditions are applicable)

Plus Coach Tour to Jenolan Caves and Guided Tour of Lucas Cave.

Cost is $40 ADULT

Per Adult

142

ULTIMATE $ DISCOVERY PACKAGE

Book Online: www.trolleytours.com.au Cost effective 1st April

LICENSED WITH NPWS – LICENCE: 13/4 TRANSPORT NSW ACCREDITATION No: 9215

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History replays on mountain stage

From Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon Tourism

life. Her mother was well known drama `Àll the world is a stage’’, according to director Audrey Blaxland, who founded Shakespeare, and for playwright Wendy the Marian Street Theatre in Killara in Blaxland the bard’s famous line is true. 1974. Wendy has a long association with The latest play for the descendant the Marian Street Theatre for Young of Gregory Blaxland, Crossing, the People which arose from its ashes in play celebrates the momentous 2002. achievement which saved the colony However, she has stepped back from from starvation – the first recognised her work at the theatre to work full-time European crossing of the Blue on the play, even recruiting actors for Mountains, as well as many other the roles. characters from the era. `Ìt has been the most extraordinary An excerpt of it premiered at the official journey,’’ she said. launch of the Blue Mountains Crossings Bicentenary 2013-2015 at Echo Point on `Ìt’s very humbling. I feel like the Saturday, February 23. mountains community is letting us help them celebrate this significant moment Crossing, the play is a lively, interactive in our nation’s history.’’ exploration of crossings from the Aboriginals who have crossed for 40,000 `Ìt’s not just about Blaxland, Wentworth ountainsyears Accommodation and Tourism Association through to explorers such as and Lawson. It starts with the sement for iMAG Visitor Guide Blaxland, William Charles Wentworth Aboriginals and the early explorers and and William Lawson, surveyor Evans, then goes through to the Evans and Cox e 115 x 80 mm landscape road builder Cox, women pioneers era because I wanted to get different Elizabeth Hawkins and Louisa Meredith, perspectives. convicts and even the dogs, horses ``We are not saying: `Look at these and bullocks who made the journeys famous people’. We want people to feel possible. we all belong and that we are all equal The great-great-great-greatliving and working together. I want to granddaughter of Gregory Blaxland said inspire people and have them recognise had been preparing for the moment for that their story is of worth.’’ 16 years, since she created an interactive Crossing, the play will be performed story session for the classmates of her throughout the Blue Mountains, daughter Jessica Blaxland Ashby, then 8. Lithgow, Bathurst and Sydney in schools The author of more than 100 books, and public family performances during Wendy has worked in theatre all her

Looking for something to do … someplace to eat … somewhere to stay… in the Blue Mountains ? Scan this QR Code with your smartphone

s you … e k ta it re e h w See

20 www.monthlyimag.com.au

getinnow

.com.au

2013. Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism chairman Randall Walker said: ``We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm with which the descendants of the original explorers have embraced this significant historical moment. ``Members of the Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson families have taken part with gusto, and in their own way have creatively ensured they too will make their mark on the historical landscape of this nation.’’ Along with an historic flyover of up to 200 aircraft over the Blue Mountains, the Blue Mountains Crossings Bicentenary 2013-2015 will include a three-year program of events to commemorate and celebrate: the first recognised European crossing of the Blue Mountains in 1813 by explorers Gregory Blaxland, William Lawson and William Charles Wentworth; the building of the Cox’s Road and finally celebrating Governor Lachlan Macquarie visiting Bathurst, Australia’s first inland settlement. contact: Wendy Blaxland wendyblaxland@optusnet.com.au

Jayes Gallery & Café

Molong

Representing regional artists of note

Artworks

Homewares

Jewellery

Framing

Café

Looking for something to do, somewhere to eat and somewhere to stay in the Blue Mountains? A new tourism smart phone app will guide your way. A Blue Mountains Accommodation and Eclectica Collectica Tourism Association (BMATA) initiative, the Get in Now QR code symbol can be scanned into any smart phone so visitors and locals can see what products and services are open and available – right now. The QR code symbol will be placed around the region on buses, in accommodation houses, tourism businesses, visitor information centres, pedestrian pylons and generally out and about. Robert Malherbe Jonathan Delafield Luke Sciberras Conversely, the appCook connects businesses which are open and actively A collaborative exhibition from Olsen Irwin Gallery and Jayes Gallery featuring artists: looking for customers with visitors Jonathan Delafield Cook, Sam Fullbrook, Francisco Goya, Guy Maestri, Robertto Malherbe, searching for ``something do, Luke Sciberras, Fred Williams, and Joy Engelman, Tim Winters, Jagger-Manners, somewhere toJosephine eat or someplace to stay Julie Williams, Michael Carroll, Jaq Davies, Glenn Hoyle,now’’ Ken Hutchinson and Hui Selwood. – right . A physical link to the getinnow.com.au the app is easy to31-33 use. Simply Open: Wed–Sun 10am–4pm Email: website, gallery@jayes.com.au Gidley Street, scan the Get in Now symbol into your Phone: 02 6366 9093 Web: www.jayes.com.au Molong NSW 2866 smart phone to be offered a choice of

April 28 – May 10

Exhibition

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Retracing explorers’ path Information from Blue Moutains Lithgow and Oberon Tourism History will repeat when the Blue Mountains Blue Wave authentic costumed re-enactment of the first recognised European crossing of the Blue Mountains is held in May. Dubbed "21 days on the mountain’’, the re-enactment will retrace as closely as possible the path picked through the bush by the original explorers Gregory Blaxland, William Lawson and William Charles Wentworth in 1813. Along with an historic flyover of up to 200 aircraft over the Blue Mountains, the bicentenary will include a three-year program of events to commemorate and celebrate: the first recognised European crossing of the Blue Mountains in 1813 by explorers Gregory Blaxland, William Lawson and William Charles Wentworth; the building of the Cox’s Road and finally celebrating Governor Lachlan Macquarie visiting Bathurst, Australia’s first inland settlement The bicentenary was officially launched by NSW Governor Professor Marie Bashir at Echo Point, Katoomba, on Saturday, February 23. Blue Mountains Blue Wave instigator John O’Sullivan said he was excited to help celebrate and commemorate one of the most momentous events in Australia’s history. The re-enactment, indeed the whole bicentenary program, would be an opportunity to honour Blaxland,

Lawson and Wentworth and their party, he said. "We have a gift and we only have it because of them. We live in a place unparalleled anywhere else in the world and I want to acknowledge Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth and their whole party because I don’t think they were properly rewarded or honoured in their day. "We have the opportunity to be the soul of the nation for 21 days. It’s really important to us as a people. This is our opportunity to showcase who we are at this present time.’’ The costumed re-enactment of the crossing will be held from St Marys in western Sydney to Hartley just west of the mountains from May 11 to 31. Each day the party will consist of three "explorers’’ drawn from descendents of the original 1813 explorers, three "convicts’’, one "kangaroo hunter’’, four horses and five dogs. Mosman real estate agent Andrew Blaxland is one such descendant. He and his children Oscar, 20, Priscilla, 18, and Wilbur, 7, will join the last leg of the journey. The great-great-great-grandson of Gregory Blaxland said the crossing event was a proud moment to this day for the Blaxland family at large: ``It was a significant event in the development of the colony: they were running out of pastoral land and the crossing was the

opening up of the western plains. "It was a crazy adventure. It took them six months to get to Australia by ship; they built their houses by hand; dug pits and milled their own timber. It was a very different world and you’ve got to take your hat off to them.’’ The historical account of the crossing should be highlighted in the school curriculum, Mr Blaxland, well known as an Elvis impersonator and Mosman community cause supporter, said. "I hope the education of our kids will involve more of our early history and all the early pioneers who helped found the country. Newcomers to Australia need to know how this country was founded too otherwise we’re going to lose our culture and our history.’’ Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism chairman Randall Walker said: "Every great project begins with an idea from a visionary, and I congratulate John O’Sullivan as being that visionary for the Blue Mountains Crossings Bicentenary 2013-2015. "The crossing is such a significant milestone in our nation’s history that to have the complete and enthusiastic support of so many descendants of the original explorers makes this moment even more authentic and memorable.’’ Andrew Blaxland – 0416 060 126 or andrew@rwm.com.au Trevor Lloyd – (02) 4739 2090 or info@ lloydspropertyvaluations.com.au

22 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Autumn in Your Gardens at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah sits on a basalt peak 1,000 metres above sea level in the World Heritage listed Greater Blue Mountains. The Garden is home to thousands of species of cool climate and southern hemisphere plants and is the highest botanic garden in Australia. The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah also offers The Jungle Lodge for a secluded stay, weddings, community workshops for adults and school holiday fun for the kids. Autumn is a superb time of year to visit as breathtaking arrays of oranges, yellows, reds and browns transform the Garden. Expect to see viburnum, berberis, cotoneaster, holly and rowan ripe with cheerful fruits, while the russet tones of turning leaves combine

to provide spectacular colour. Swathes of windflowers follow with the silvery-white protea blooms heralding the grand ‘protea performance’ which builds towards winter. Perfume from the last of the summer roses seal this reverie while the marvelous orange

What’s looking good at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden

through to deep maroon coloring of the Japanese Maples entrances before the ‘fall’. Deep into May, the autumn colour of deciduous trees can still be found with many of the evergreen conifers shifting colour in response to lower temperatures.

Acer palmatum cv. Linearilobum rubrum - Japanese Maple

Autumn in your Garden May program

Celebrate autumn’s attraction at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden! Either side of the entrance to the Residence Garden as you walk from the Visitor Centre are two radiant shrubs with very appealing leaves and a third specimen adorns garden bed EW118 at the top of the Plant Explorers’ Walk. Of the 120 or so species of the Acer genus, commonly known as maples, Acer palmatum, from Japan, has provided an outstanding number of cultivars. A little more than 50 of these are displayed throughout the Garden. Most of these belong to the ‘Dissectum Group’, their lobed leaves obviously toothed and often further dissected. Examples weep from above the path midway through the Residence Garden. A refreshing enticement is provided by the long, deeply lobed and finely toothed foliage of the Acer palmatum, which belongs to the Linearilobum Group that lacks further leaf dissection. Planted in 1984, three years before the Garden was opened to the public, and thriving in the moist fertile soil and cool-climate, these specimens have attained a most handsome maturity. Some mystery surrounds the origin of the ‘Linearilobum rubrum’ cultivar name these specimens bear, as it does not appear in the literature. J. D. Vertrees in his ‘Japanese Maples’ explains the meaning of ‘Aka no hichi gosan’ as ‘red leaves with 7, 5 and 3 lobes’. This is one of the names applied to this small, distinctive group of cultivars in which he considers that several are identical though they have been assigned different names.

Saturday 16 March – Sunday 19 May 2013 Afternoon Tea at the Garden by Barbi Lock Lee Visit this delightful new exhibition of Barbi Lock Lee’s celebrated ceramics, featuring native birds and delicate designs. Themed around ‘Afternoon tea at the Garden’ Barbi’s works will feature cake stands, milk jugs and traditional tea ware for the discerning Devonshire tea enthusiast. 9.30 am – 5.00pm. Free entry. Entry to the garden is free. For information and online bookings visit: www.yourgardens.com.au/ or www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/tomah Call: 02 4567 3000 / Restaurant Tomah 02 4567 2060 Email: tomah@rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au Find us on Facebook!

Highly Commended: Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon Tourism Awards 2012 - Tourist Attraction

coME iNTo ThE Garden ThE BLuE MounTAinS BoTAnic GArdEn, MounT ToMAh Enjoy beautiful autumn colours • exhibition centre • inspiring art • guided tours • Adventure Quests • Jungle Lodge accommodation • wedding venues • restaurant with views • Garden Shop www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

Your Garden Mon – Fri 9 am – 5.30 pm. Weekends & public holidays 9.30 am – 5.30 pm. Bells Line of Rd, Mount Tomah. T: 4567 3000 FREE ENTRY

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

24 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Friday 17th May - Sunday 19th May 9.00 am - 4.00 pm Friday and Saturday 9.00 am - 3.00 pm Sunday Hawkesbury Racecourse Racecourse Rd, Clarendon (Opposite Richmond RAAF Base)

2013

Vendors

Adults: $5.00 — Buses: $4.00 Children under 15 yrs: Free Orchid Displays — Plants for Sale Free growing advice — Plenty of free parking Sausage sizzle and light refreshments available Enquiries 9671 6609

Royale Orchids Sim's Orchids Dark Star Orchids Dendi Orchids Rosella Orchids Orchids on Newbold Burbank Orchids Cedarvale Orchids Kiwi Orchid Bark

Nicky Zurcher Orchids Orchid Species Plus The Orchid Tray Company Tinonee Orchid Nursery Fong Ping Orchids Woolf Orchid Culture Orchid Obsessions Johnston's Orchids

Proudly presented by

The Orchid Society of New South Wales | Blacktown City Orchid Society Blue Mountains & Penrith District Orchid Society Inc. | Hawkesbury District Orchid Society Inc

Gosford

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Blackheath/Mt Victoria Blackheath at 1065m abve sea level is 114 km from Sydney and most famous for its November Rhododendron Festival. The Blackheath Rhododendron Gardens are in Baccante Street. The town’s shopping centre has a delightfully relaxed village atmosphere. Blackheath is filled with natural beauty and there are many breathtaking views and bush walks to experience. Blackheath is full of colonial history. The first building in Blackheath was "The Scotch Thistle Inn" erected by Andrew Gardner in 1831. The Inn was visited by the renowned scientist Charles Darwin in 1836. The site for "The Scotch Thistle Inn" was located slightly south of the present Gardners Inn Hotel. On the outside of the famous Victory Theatre antique centre is one of the town’s proudest displays, a colourful mural designed by local artist Jenny Kee and painted in 1985 by members of the local community on behalf of the Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre. It has been recently refurbished by this proud community.

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Mt Victoria Fast Facts Mount Victoria is the most westerly Blue Mountains township - 120 kilometres from Sydney and 1043 metres above sea-level. It is a small very charming historic village originally named 'One Tree Hill' on a map from 1834 - the name changed in 1876 when the first Post Office was built. There is a large number of historic buildings, including the Imperial Hotel -1878, St Peter's Church of England -1874, Closeburn House-1885, The Manor House, built by John Fairfax in 1876 and the Toll Keepers Cottage -1849. In Mount Victoria and close by you have Victoria Falls, Victoria Pass, Mt York, Bede's, Sunset Rock & Mitchell's Ridge Look-outs, beautiful Bushwalks and the Mount Victoria Historical Museum. Some of the Historic buildings are now beautiful 1st class accommodation facilities and combined with their

fine food and other restaurants, make staying in Mount Victoria another must for your 'Top of the Mountains Adventure’

What to See & Do

The Kanimbla Valley Walking Tracks, which take in Pulpit Rock, Bede’s Lookout, Reinitz Pass and Ross Cave. The array of buildings and boutique shops selling antiques, craft and brica-brac The walking track that will take you to Victoria Falls. Mount Victoria Historical Museum located in the old refreshment rooms at the Railway Station. First release films at Mount Vic Flicks. Visit the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre, at the end of Govetts leap Road, Blackheath. There is an interactive display of how the mountains were made, a theatrette and gallery. Open everydayexcept Christmas Day, from 9.00am to 4.30pm.

Mt Victoria Museum

Blue Mountains Heritage Centre

At the end of Govetts leap Road, Blackheath Open everyday except Christmas Day 9.00am to 4.30pm.

Phone: 4787 8877

Huge Collection of unusual Museum Pieces, well worth a visit!

Open weekends school holidays and public holidays

(except Good Friday and Christmas Day)

from 12noon to 3pm

Contact Jean Winston 02 4782 7866 26 www.monthlyimag.com.au

~Largest Antique store west of Sydney with the greatest variety in the Blue Mountains~ Open 7 Days 10am - 5pm

Cox’s Road Mount York National Alpaca Week Trevor Patrick, President of the Parramatta Historical Society, recently walked the original Cox's Road down the cliff face at Mount York. He said : “What a fabulous engineering feat; muscle and gunpowder and sweat! and rocks were trimmed and moved to make that 12 foot wide track. It was exciting to me as I figured I was walking on the same path as Elizabeth and Lachlan Macquarie walked in 1815...

Ngullaminya Alpacas Open Days 4-5 May open from 10am to 4pm Phone earlier if any enquiries Follow the signs from the junction of Great Western Highway and Cox’s River Road Little Hartley Phone 0414902039 - 6355 2393 www.ngullaminyaalpacas.com

Here are a couple of the road images. The sheer drop of about 600 feet on one side of the road makes you want to hug the rock wall on the other side.

‘dare to be different’ • Skincare products • Locally made and imported jewellery and clothing • Games, puzzles and cards • Handbags, shawls and drapes • Candles • Exclusive gift lines

Phone (02) 4787 5573 22A Govetts Leap Rd, BLACKHEATH

There is no safety rail. Mrs Elizabeth Macquarie must have looked wonderful in her long gown stepping off and down this track in 1815. OH FOR A TIME MACHINE! ”

The Imperial Hotel Located in Mount Victoria at the top of the Blue Mountains, the hotel features spacious lounges, bar, pool room, open fireplaces, elegant dining and excellent brasserie meals. Winner "One Schooner Award" Happy Hours: Mon - Thur 5-7pm $4 schooner. Live in Sydney Morning music every Friday, Saturday night & Sunday afternoon Herald Good Pub Rooms vary from traditional style and heritage ensuites to Food Guide Awards the romantic Imperial Suite for that special occasion. 2012 Long term or short stays, weekend and mid week packages are available to suit all budgets. Enquire about functions at the Imperial Hotel

1 Station Street, Mount Victoria. Ph: 02 4787 1878 w w w. ho tel imp er i a l . c om . au

Offering a range of specialised shoes to help problem feet feel comfortable Stocking: NAOT - Ecco Florsheim Hogl - Merrell Rohde - Gabor Josef Seibel - PindiereSandler - Rieker - Beautifeel open seven days 4 govetts leap rd blackheath (02) 4787 8263

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Wallerawang/Portland

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What to see & Do In 1863 Thomas Murray selected land that would later become the site of Portland and he established the first lime kiln on the corner of Lime and Villiers Streets. Both Portland and Wallerawang are blessed with two

Pretty as a Picture

$169,500.00

This two bedroom property has been tastefully renovated, including the big ticket items such as plumbing, new roof, gutters and downpipes, weathertex exterior walls, new kitchen with electric stove, bathroom with large, glassed shower, and laundry. Beautifully restored mantle piece in lounge room plus gas heating. There is new carpet and other floor coverings throughout the home, and the inside has been freshly painted. Two toilets, large linen cupboard and light and airy sun room. Cement slab at back of house ready for new owners to add a covered verandah. 2,200 litre water tank. Property is fully fenced, has a single garage and open fronted storage shed. Land area is 669 sqm (approx), and is a corner block with sealed rear lane. An inspection won’t disappoint.

historic public houses, schools, fascinating historic buildings, lakes and fishing streams, delightful little stores and friendly people. Portland is famous as the Town that built Sydney due to its Cement works and Wallerawang is famous for its Black Gold (coal) associations with Delta electricity. Portland’s Crystal Theatre hosts cinema as well as art shows and is famous for its street fairs. Portland’s big swimming pool has celebrated 50 years and Wallerawang’s historic old station’s heritage redevelopment has led to a florist, lolly shop, café and art gallery. With the art, lakes, history, fine dining and comfortable accommodation, it’s worth taking your time to explore these two villages. Visit Chris Woolcock at The Village Toymakers to watch him at work or arrange to join one of his classes.

The Visitor Information Centres have heaps of information on the range of local activities and accommodation - you may want to stay or come back again! Enjoy refreshments or a meal while you are here – plenty to choose from Visit Portland’s Bottle Kilns Marvel at the size of the old Cement Works of Portland Picnic by Lake Wallace which submerged where Darwin stayed Go sailing or rowing on Lake Wallace where no power boats are allowed Go bird watching at Lake Wallace and around Portland Investigate the Lake Wallace wildlife The Portland area is now well known to riders wanting to experience numerous exciting trails in State Forest areas within close proximity to Portland. Explore Wallerawang’s historic old church and school Collect antiques, art or local produce

Portland Real Estate

The Local Agents With Local Knowledge

Offering many years experience in local

real estate and extensive knowledge of this beautiful village not far from the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains. Ph: 02 6355 5125 Email: sales@portlandre.com.au www.portlandre.com.au

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Specialising in hand made wooden toys from Dolls Houses to Zoos and of course Rocking Horses! 8 Wolgan Street Portland - Phone 63555160 - krisp1@live.com.au

w w w. r o c k i n g h o r s e s . c o m . a u

Wallerawang Wallerawang was first surveyed 1823. In 1824 James Walker was granted a large tract of land that was called "Wallerowang" by the local aboriginal people. Charles Darwin stayed at "Wallerowang House" (later to become Barton Park) in 1836, and in the book "Voyage of the Beagle" he describes the area at the time and the wildlife that included a number of platypus. There was a huge increase in population in 1851 after gold was discovered in the area. The National School opened 1860. Shale oil mining began in 1867 and the railway arrived in 1870 with coal hot on its heels in 1873. St John the Evangelist Church opened in 1881 as a memorial to the Walker/Barton family.

Les Love Art at the Station Les is a Sydney-born artist who has lived in the Blue Mountains since 1983. He studied painting and printmaking at the National Art School. National Art School. Les specialises in etching and linocut printmaking, usually of Australian flora and fauna. His prints are in numerous collections both in Australia and overseas.

Les has been a professional firefighter with the NSW Fire Brigade since 1980, and was stationed at Katoomba in the Blue Mountains for the past 16 years - retiring early this year. Now lives in Clarence near Lithgow. we are pleased to announce that Coffee at the Station will be reopening the third week in May with delicious treats and home made cakes and Vittoria coffee to be had on the verandah as well as around the cafĂŠ itself and the gallery.

Now OPen - 7 Days a week

All your lolly fantasies will come true with British and traditional sweets, plus handmade chocolates, nougats, fudges and more... something for ALL the kids young & old.

The Old Wallerawang Station

A fully qualified and specialist wedding florist. Plus a gorgeous selection of Settler Bears, imported and handmade jewellery and her very own designer silk arrangements... you never know what you might find. Ph: 63551836

An eclectic mix of ceramic, sculpture, traditional art and amazing crafts, all produced by local artists... looking for that unique gift, then this is the place for you.

In the beautifully restoredWallerawang Railway Station, Main St,Wallerawang www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Hartley & Surrounds

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A Moment in Time The Hartley area provides a great insight into NSW settlement and early Australian History with some wonderful fully restored and operational historic buildings – in addition to the beautifully preserved buildings in Hartley historic village. Some of the historic buildings have been turned into elegant accommodation and licensed restaurant facilities and there are other new hide-away rural retreats. Old stores have become new stores and more new stores have been built offering a range of services from rural supplies and local produce to cafes, wine bars, restaurants and take-aways, B&B’s, lolly shops, real estate agents who come and go, as well as some art and craft galleries and antique stores Hartley is situated at the bottom of Victoria Pass, on the Great Western Highway in the valley between Mount Victoria and Lithgow.

We have everything you require in and out of the Saddle and whether you ride or not!

Mon - Thurs 10 - 5 Friday 10 - 6 Sat - Sun 10 - 3 2264 Great Western Hwy, Hartley NSW 2790

6355 2165

www.thehartleysaddlery.com.au

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Hartley’s Contribution to the Bicentenary of the Crossing of the Blue Mountains Opening mid May will be an exhibition ‘A Moment in Time,’ that examines the celebrated crossing of the Blue Mountains by Europeans in 1813, and the consequences of that crossing. Duncan Wass, Chairman of the Hartley District Progress Association 1813 Sub Committee said “ in settling on the name ‘A Moment in Time’ we have tried to capture the essence of the crossing. It was but a moment in time, and this is an exhibition that considers what existed before and what came after’. Curated by retired Professional Historian Joan Kent, now a resident in the Hartley Valley, ‘A Moment in Time' examines much more than the crossing by Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth and their party. It begins with a consideration of the rich and ancient geology of the landscape into which the explorers intruded, where ancient sedimentary rocks lie juxtaposed with igneous granite. This section features a Late Devonian rock that has never before been on public display, in which nestles a large removable fossilised brachiopod, or mollusc. Whilst geology is the opening theme, the exhibition explores many aspects of the story, from the Indigenous Peoples whose country was being traversed, through the explorers and the development of the Bathurst Road, to the first European visitors to Bathurst. It closes with a consideration of the life and achievements of some of the earliest settlers in the Hartley Valley, such as John and Jane Grant and Pierce and Mary Collitt who settled here in the early 1820s. In the words of Lynn Collins, Museums Adviser to the Blue Mountains and Lithgow City Councils "This significant exhibition is a comprehensive,

sophisticated, accessible and absorbing presentation of that exciting yet poignant moment when the Europeans vigorously fanned out westwards it's a must-see amongst Crossings commemorations". The exhibition will be open to the public from 18th May to the 16th June, on weekends from 10 to 3, and by appointment midweek. Party viewing can be arranged at any time by contacting Barbara Johnson on 6355 2017. The historic Hartley School and Hall is located just off the Great Western Highway in Mid Hartley Road, Hartley. Saturday 1st June will be the official opening of the A Moment in Time exhibition, which will occur immediately after the official opening of a walking track in the Hartley Historic Site. The track will provide access to the granite tors above the village, as a place to contemplate the consequences of the first crossing of the Blue Mountains by Europeans. Her Excellancy Professor Marie Bashir, AC CVO will formally open the Images Exhibition, 'A Moment in Time', at 1pm on Saturday 1st June, at the Old Hartley School and Hall. The public are warmly invited to witness this event. ' A Moment in Time 'is just one element of the commemoration activities the Hartley community is undertaking. Under the logo 'Hartley Rocks', other activities include guided walks and rides along the line of Cox’s 1814 road through the Hartley Valley, much of which is located on privately owned land and is not normally accessible to the public. For information on Hartley events, go to www.hartleyvalley.org.au/ hartleyrocks. Duncan Wass, Chairman, Hartley District Progress Association Phone 6355 2043 or 0414506643 Email: hartleyprogress@gmail.com

HARTLEY VALLEY HOLIDAY FARM Your Holiday Home in the Country Just 90 mins drive from Sydney Own a share in 370 acres of prime land in picturesque Little Hartley

There’s nothing quite like Little Hartley Farm anywhere in Australia – in fact owners will tell you it’s the best kept secret on earth!

Buying a share in Little Hartley Farm gives you shared ownership of the property and its facilities as well as unlimited free access to the Farm’s activities including horse and trail bike riding. Meet new friends and give your family the chance to experience farm life whenever you like. Your share in the farm entitles you and your immediate family to year round access to Little Hartley Farm and its facilities including: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Accommodation for 6 in your own self contained cabin (incl. kitchen and bathroom) Weekly riding lessons catering to all levels on the farm’s vibrant herd of horses and ponies Supervised trail rides through the farm’s beautiful bushland and open paddocks Friendly shetland ponies for riders under 7 years Day facilities for privately owned horses Enclosed riding arenas, round yard and jumps Regular gymkhanas, riding and horsemanship clinics with visiting instructors 26 acre competition standard dirt bike track • Regular dirt bike competitions 2 x cement tennis courts with ﬂoodlights • 20 metre swimming pool Camping area for tents and caravans • Recreation room with pool table and table tennis • BMX bike track BBQs and outdoor open ﬁres • Communal kitchen/ dining room for events and functions Some private horse agistment available Enjoy accommodation in one of 30 comfortable, self contained cabins located in

• blocks of 5 on ridges around the farm. Each block enjoys stunning views across Hartley Valley to the Mt York escarpment - the perfect setting to unwind in • Little front of an open fire at the end of another happy day at the farm. • in life at the farm, or use it as a base from which to explore the Blue • Indulge Mountains and other local attractions such as the Zig Zag Railway, the Jenolan • Caves and the restaurants and wineries of the Mountains and Central West. • Hartley Valley Holiday Farm was established in 1977 as an Owner’s Co-operative, • and ownership is strictly limited. This is not a time share, you can use the farm as • often as you like. It is an affordable way for families to enjoy farm life in a safe and relaxing environment. The farm’s on-site Manager and his team look after • the day to day running of the farm so Owners and their families are free to relax • and enjoy their time at the farm. • Owners are more than welcome to bring guests to the farm who may then • utilise the horse and bike facilities for a modest daily fee. • For more information or to arrange an inspection of Little Hartley Farm, • contact the office or log onto the farm’s website.

Hartley Valley Owners’ Company Ltd. “Rosedale” 2187 Great Western Hwy Little Hartley NSW 2790 Phone: 02 6355 2244 Fax: 02 6355 2131 Web: http://www.hartleyfarm.com.au/

Escape the pressures of city life at your own country getaway

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Lithgow

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Lithgow is an area rather than a town set amidst mountain splendour, Lithgow is rich in culture. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal tradition, step back in time to an era

where steam dominated transport and when industry was our backbone Discover Lithgow’s accessible wilderness. With tranquil vistas and serene landscapes, the environment is

Small Arms Factory Museum Our archives form a collection of national significance, being the almost complete record of the Lithgow SAF from its inception. The collections and archives give a unique insight into both Australia’s industrial history, and the factory’s glorious past as a first class manufacturing facility. Contact Details: PO Box 564, Lithgow NSW 2790 Ph: 6351 4452 lithgowsafmuseum@ozemail.com. au Location: At the front of the old Factory complex, Methven Street, Lithgow

Open: Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 9:30am to 2pm Weekends, public and school holidays 10am to 4pm Cost of Admission: Adults $8 Concession $6 Children $3 Family $18

Werriberri Trail Rides • Horses to suit all ages and abilities • Hourly, day & overnight rides • Pubstays & campouts

"Come and check out our backyard!"

Ph 0448 879 171 www.australianbluehorserides.com.au 32 www.monthlyimag.com.au

abundant in wildlife and picturesque mountain panoramas. Great for camping! The Lithgow region is nature’s playground. Canyoning and rock climbing, in areas ten times older than the Grand Canyon, are experiences never to be forgotten. There are also magnificent 4WD tracks to explore. The choice of adventure is up to you.

What to See & Do

Camp on the shores of Lake Lyell for wildlife encounters and speed boating. Visit the nationally significant Small Arms Factory Museum. Go bird watching, preferably with a guide. Visit the award winning wetlands to see how many different plants and animals you can identify. Take a helicopter view of this surprising area. Go on a tour with the people who have lived here for thousands of years.

Werriberri on Mt York Werriberri Trail Rides is offering new Trail Rides from historic Mt York designed to suit all riding abilities. Kathy Tucker and her team have a range of wonderful reliable horses suitable for all levels of riding experience and the riding groups are accompanied by experienced guides. The Trail Rides features heritage track, farmland, escarpment views and some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery. They also lead to many rarely visited places, giving riders an insight into the background to the history around the historical time of the Crossing of the Blue Mountains, as well as many of the little known historic places of this area.

Hartley Heritage Trail Rides

Walk the Journey

Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 May 2013 Bring your horse and join us on trail rides through the beautiful and historic Hartley Valley, commemorating the bicentenary of the Blue Mountains crossing and arrival in the Hartley Valley of the explorers Blaxland Lawson and Wentworth. Intermediate riders ONLY. Minimum age 12. Each rider under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult rider. Includes hilly terrain, a river crossing and a highway crossing pending approval. Time: From 7am ready to ride at 8.45 Finish around 4.30pm Cost: $60 includes lunch at historic Liddleton Woolshed Location: 156 Fields Rd Hartley Vale Contact: Hartley Saddlery 02 6355 2165

Sunday 26 and Thursday 30 May 2013 Guided Walks along the original Coxs Road from Mt York to Glenroy. The walk is divided into 2 sections, and can be taken separately or together. Full Day includes the descent of Mt York, and Lunch, and is graded strenuous, Half Day is intermediate. Time: Full Day 9.30am for 10pm Half Day 1.00pm for 1.30pm Cost: All Day Walk $45 (Includes bus to start, guides, Pocket Pal route guide, refreshments, lunch) Half Day $25 (Includes guides, Pocket Pal route guide, refreshments, bus return) Location: Walkers: Meet at Hartley Historic School, Mid Hartley Road, Hartley NSW 2790 to be taken by bus to the starting point. Full Day: Top of

Mt York to Hartley, Half Day: Meet at Hartley Historic School, Mid Hartley Road Contact: Duncan Wass 0414 506 643 hartleyprogress@gmail.com info@thehartleysaddlery.com.au www.hartleyvalley.org.au/hartleyrocks

The Great Outdoors

R&K Gas Supplies Camping Gear - Kayaks Gas Refills 63651 3174

Chifley Road Lithgow

Lithgow regional area has so many ways to enjoy the great outdoors, especially with the aid of the appropriate camping gearâ&#x20AC;Śwe have award winning Visitor Information Centres to provide advice on activities and places to suit and challenge your abilities budgets and tastes while R&K Gas Supplies in Lithgow have a great range of products, complete with friendly qualified staff, to provide what you may need to complete the experience. They have clothing, a comprehensive range of safety and camping gear, can refill your gas bottles and have so many options for having fun that you really should check them out. They often have specials too. At the moment the weather is so pleasant for a range of activities. In this area we are surrounded by lakes, forests, walking tracks, wildlifeâ&#x20AC;Ś you may even observe the area where our platypus inspired Charles Darwin at Wallerawang and go kayaking on the beautiful lake there to observe the plentiful birds. What are you waiting for? www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Lithgow Free-range Meats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Your Local Farmers Market About Us Australia produces the best beef in the world, thanks to the hard work of local producers committed to raising the highest quality breeds. From this we are able to source the best quality and specification of beef as well as a wide selection of high quality pasture fed and hormone-free beef products. We also pride ourselves on growing our own range of Kanimbla Valley's best Wagyu and Wagyu cross under the Shogun Wagyu trademark. Through Lithgow Free Range Meats' long standing involvement with the local beef industry, we are able to discern the subtle differences between farming regions and beef breeds. To reach its maximum eating quality Lithgow Free Range Meats uses the wet ageing process on our beef to enhance the flavour.

a feed lot accredited under the national feedlot accreditation scheme. Due to the uniformity of the feed there is a consistency in the product. Grain fed cattle will yield a more consistent meat colour and can have high levels of marbling. Grain finishing or feedlotting, changes the omega 6 and 3 ratio from an ideal 3:1 to an unhealthy range of 24:1. Grass Fed Beef Are animals raised and fattened on grass. Grass fed beef tends to be favoured by Australians as it is healthy and low in fat. Cattle grazed on pasture absorbs carotene (a pigment in the grass) which can result in a yellow coloured fat. Feedlot cattle can grow

up to 2kg per day and sometimes more. 200-220kg steers take only 100 days to reach 450kg. Our grass fed cattle by comparison will take a steer at least 9 months to reach that same weight; our fullblood Wagyu cattle take a lot longer than that.

Our Breeds On our farm we use Straight Bred Angus sourced from local producers and raised by us, and our Japanese Wagyu Herd have been bred on farm from Tajima and Kedaka bloodlines. We use our Wagyu bull over our Angus cattle to get our first cross or F1. For more details refer to our website or Facebook

Our Beef

Grass Fed v Grass Fed Beef Grain Fed Beef Grain fed cattle must be sourced from

Lit gow

Free-range Meats

Our beef and lamb are 100% pasture fed, We use prime Wagyu over our Angus cattle. Our full-blood Wagyu bulls are based on the three main Japanese bloodlines of Tajima, Fujiyoshi and Kedaka. All our full-blood Wagyu are registered with the Australian Wagyu Association.

O pe n:

Mo nday - F r id ay 7 a m -5 . 3 0 p m Sa t u rday 7 a m -1 . 3 0 p m

Shop 1/147 Mor t Street, Lithgow, 2790. Phone (02) 6351 4008 Fax (02) 6351 4009

www.l i thgowfree ran geme at s. c om 34 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Lithgow

Surprisingly diverse

For a free copy of the

Lithgow Visitor Guide

Lithgow Visitor Information Centre Great Western Highway, (PO Box 19 Lithgow NSW 2790) T: 1300 760 276 or (02) 6350 3230, F: (02) 6350 3239 E: tourism@lithgow.com

www.tourism.lithgow.com may 2013.indd 1

4/04/13 2:56 PM

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Pan fried Cajun Pork with spicy ‘Slaw using ‘Rajin’ Cajun® SpiceDeluxe seasoning.

Taste the Blue Mountains

‘We believe everyone has the right to access good, clean and fair food’

Slow Food is an international nonprofit association formed in 1989 as a response to the standardising effects of fast food and the ‘fast life’. There are now thousands of members in over 100 countries, divided into local focus groups called convivia, of which Slow Food Blue Mountains is just one. Three interconnecting principles define Slow Food: GOOD - A fresh and flavoursome seasonal diet that satisfies the senses and is part of our local culture. CLEAN - Produced in harmony with the environment and human health. FAIR - Accessible prices for consumers and fair conditions and pay for smallscale producers. To join, tap into local events or find out more about Slow Food Blue Mountains, visit www.slowfoodbluemountains.com.au or email sfbm@slowfoodaustralia.com.au

Serves 4 Ingredients: Pork: 4 Pork loin steaks (400g - 600g) 2 tbsp Rajin’ Cajun SpiceDeluxe seasoning 2 tbsp olive oil 2 limes (cheeks reserved) Coleslaw: ¼ Red cabbage - finely diced 2 sticks celery - diced (small cubes) 1 large carrot - diced (small cubes) 2 spring onions - sliced (small rounds) 2 tbsp coriander – finely chopped (leaves only) 2 tbsp parsley – finely chopped (leaves only) ‘Slaw dressing: 3 tbsp mayonnaise (good quality) Juice of 1 lime ½ tsp Tabasco Salt & Pepper – good pinch of each Method: Remove the pork from the fridge then dry coat with Rajin’ Cajun seasoning. Place on a serving plate on the bench, cover with cling wrap and allow the pork to return to room temperature. For the coleslaw place all ingredients in a large stainless mixing bowl, gently toss together. For the dressing, mix all ingredients together and serve in a side dish with the coleslaw. Cook the pork loins in a pre heated pan for 3 minutes each side and then rest (covered with foil) in a warm place for 3 minutes. Slice pork into large pieces before serving. Arrange pork slices on a serving plate, spoon juice over the pork. Serve alongside coleslaw on each plate with spicy ‘slaw dressing and serve immediately. Recipe Inspiration: Louisiana, USA.

Carrington Cellars wine match: Red: 2012 early pick Shiraz Rose, from Mongrel Wines, Mudgee White: 2009 ‘Off Dry’ Riesling from Mongrel Wines, Mudgee

REGIONAL WINE SPECIALIST Purveyors of Fine Food & Wine Located in the old Katoomba power station (just off Parke Street), our cellar specialises in Regional Wines, Boutique Beers and an International Deli. Many heritage features of the power station have been incorporated into the design. The cellar is available for private tastings.

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ON PARKE STREET (AT REAR OF THE CARRINGTON HOTEL) The Carrington Hotel 15-47 Katoomba St, Katoomba 2780 www.thecarrington.com.au T +61 2 4782 1111

Mamre House Café

Hawkesbury Café at the Visitor Info Centre

Open Mon-Sat 9-4 Sun 8.30 -4 Fri till 10pm

Hawkesbury Valley Way, Clarendon We serve Morgans Handcrafted Coffee and a range of Tease Teas Breakfast is served until 11.30 and lunch from 11.30 – 2.30. Enjoy our Devonshire tea and famous Mamre scones at anytime Bookings Recommended phone 9670 6178 Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 2.30 pm Saturday and Sunday 9 am - 4.00 pm Closed Mondays and Public Holidays Mitchell Highway Mamre House Lucknow. 181 Mamre Rd Orchard Hills Phone: 9670 6178 Phone: 6365 5001

It’s your Club Relax & connect with family, friends & business associates over a fresh made breakfast and a at the Coffeshop. Open from 9am, 7 days 114 Rankin street, Bathurst phone: 63332999 www.bathurstrsl.com.au

(opposite RAAF base)

Phone: 02 4588 6917 - 0422 894 472

Country Organic Coffee, Lithgow

Enjoy a relaxing Barista made Wood Roasted Coffee with Country style home cooked MEALS & Great Pies in spacious and comfortable surroundings while travelling. Open 7 days 7am to 7pm

1038 Great Western Highway, Lithgow (Beside KFC) Phone: 6351 3933

Bush Bites Take Away Café Specialising in Fine Food. Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner • Morning & Afternoon Teas • Coffee & Cakes • Daily Homemade Specials - Featuring Rosie's Chicken Warm, friendly service

Coffee from the Central West Blue Mountains to The Hawksbury

Eat in or take away All day big breakfast $10 Children’s meals $5.50 Mixed grill $12 Regular specials

Phone Orders: 4566 4766 Shop 9, Old Northern Road Wiseman's Ferry

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37 37

Oberon

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What to See & Do

Be sure to call in to the Visitor Info Centre for information on all the wonderful things to see and do now e.g. weather, accommodation, activities, etc. The VIC has the extensive list of splendid gardens open during all seasons The VIC has 4 Cycling maps of the area with more being prepared, also info on Cycling Events Go trout fishing in Lake Oberon all year round. See the VIC for info on Fishing Season and licenses Try your luck sapphire fossicking Try mushroom picking, taking care to eat only edible varieties – the VIC has advice on these Go horse riding through the magically beautiful landscape Explore the wild places by 4WD Evans Crown Nature Reserve and Kanangra Walls offer both relaxing and challenging walks BATHURST

SWIMMING POOL

INdOOr TENNIS COUrT

fishing antiques firearms hunting

STREET ST

pi n e h cu STREET

SYDNEY

RALEIGH

NATIONAL BANK

ROSS

FLEMMING

LOWES MT RD

GOULBURN

OBERON

ill

www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au

camping

DART

CARRINGTON AVENUE

p or

The Green Fox

SCOTIA AVENUE

CUNYNGHAME STREET

JENOLAN CAVES

Resident managers: Bob & Sally Parrington Telephone 02 6336 0344 jenolancaravanpark@bigpond.com www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au 7 Cunynghame St • PO Box 97 • Oberon NSW 2787

Jenolan Cabins

Horizon Park Management Pty Ltd trading as Jenolan Caravan Park • ABN 23 155 413 700

vintage jewellery

Open

Days

furniture clothing toys more...

come and browse

(02) 6336 0202

Oberon, Cnr Ross & Oberon Sts. 38 www.monthlyimag.com.au

You MUST make time for multiaward winning Jenolan Caves, the most spectacular limestone caves in Australia, maybe stay there - the beauty above and below ground is inspirational. Get the app!

Autumn Fairyland Autumn in Oberon is for the Fairies for sure! Come and join them for a truly great range of magical experiences to suit any taste. There is accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes in the area and surrounds. There are activities from the most thorough unwinding and romantic to extreme challenge, with award winning visitor centre staff to assist you with your choices. The gardens and fresh produce are at their best, the fish are biting, mushrooms and gems are waiting to be found… This Autumn is Fairyland at its best so come on up!

JENOLAN CARAVAN PARK

At 1,113m, Oberon is the highest town in the Blue Mountains region. It is the perfect hub from which to explore a multitude of unique attractions, towns & villages, including Jenolan Caves and Kanangra Boyd National Park. With four distinct, idyllic seasons and the most beautiful scenery in rural NSW, a visit to the region will reward & delight. Oberon is surrounded by interesting villages and National Parks. Jenolan Caves, Kanangra Boyd National Park, Blue Mountains National Park and Abercrombie River National Park are in the shire and contain spectacular scenery. Oberon can be used as a base from which to undertake day trips to the various villages and attractions within the region. Oberon is best known as a character in Shakespeare’s play, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and you’d be forgiven for thinking, as you drive into the town of Oberon at the moment, that you were entering that play.

42 Edith Rd, Jenolan Caves

Multi AwArd winning PArk

Bob and Sally Parrington Modern Airconditioned Ensuite Cabins, 7 Cunynghame Street and PO Box 97 Oberon nSw 2787 Large Powered Unpowered Sites, Telephone 02 6336 0344 Modernjenolancaravanpark@bigpond.com Amenities and Laundry, BBQ/ Camp Kitchen Facilities, Swimming Pool www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au adjacent, Indoor Tennis Court Hire, Jenolan Caves Tour Bookings, Children’s Playground at the entrance to the Park

7 Cunynghame Street PO Box 97 Oberon NSW 2787

Ph: 02 6335 6239 M: 0418 619 709

Telephone 02 6336 0344

E: relax@jenolancabins.com.au

jenolancaravanpark@bigpond.com

www.jenolancabins.com.au

www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au

Oberon in May The beautiful open garden in town called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gairlochâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gairloch Garden Sat 04 - Sun 05 May 2013 10.00am - 5.00pm Cost:$5.00 Come and view a beautiful local garden OPEN for three weekends in Autumn.... Gairloch Garden has been a work in progress for some 25 years with features such as terracing and hedging. Every turn brings a new dimension with the parterre garden, croquet lawn, garden chess, an abundance of water features, metal artwork and an array of timber and masonry structures. Gairloch Garden - Living with nature - birdlife and poultry bring life to the garden. 27 Blenheim Avenue, Oberon Contact: The Low Family on 0263 360291 WASTE 2 ART 2013 Wed 08 - Sat 11 May 2013 Oberon Waste 2 Art 2013 Community Art Competition celebrating the reuse and recycling of waste across the NetWaste region through arts and crafts. Turn your waste into art..... Entry forms can be obtained from Oberon Library or Oberon Council and all entries should be in by April 20 2013. Deliver all ARTWORKS by May 6 Waste To Art Exhibition will be held on Wednesday 8 - Saturday 11 May 2013 at the Robert Hooper Community Centre, Oberon and awards night will be Fri May 10 commencing at 5.30pm Waste To Art Workshops available with artist Harrie Fasher .... Robert Hooper Community Centre, Oberon Contact: Kathy Sajowitz or Celia Ravesi on 6336 0742 or 6359 3109

Thomas Brown working on the Wall telling a Dreamtime Creation Story of the Jenolan Caves and the surrounding landscape of the Blue Mountains from the local indigenous people

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Bathurst & Surrounds Bathurst Region – Full of life A great city to visit, a perfect place to stay. Whether you’re in Bathurst for a day or a week you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. See our What’s on for Events. Start at the Visitor Information Centre where you’ll find a meticulously restored Cobb & Co coach from the 1860s beside a 1909 Brush car, one of the first motor vehicles to cross the Blue Mountains. The Centre stocks a wide range of information, from self-driving or walking tours to picnic spots and outdoor activities. Wander through the streets, parks and gardens soaking up the history of the oldest inland settlement in Australia. Right in the heart of the city Machattie Park provides a tranquil spot to rest and relax. Just next door is the magnificent Bathurst Court House and opposite that the magnificent War Memorial Carillon is flanked by the Evans Memorial and the Boer War Memorial. Drive to the famous Mount Panorama motor racing circuit where, outside race times, you can drive a lap of the

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circuit at a sedate 60kms per hour. Visit the National Motor Racing Museum to catch up on the history of motor racing in Bathurst. Peter Brock’s statue at the front of the museum commemorates his contribution to motor racing and his 9 wins on this circuit. Past winners of all endurance races are recorded on plaques outside the Bathurst Regional Council building in Russell Street. History buffs will love the Scottish baronial style mansion, Abercrombie House, the National Trust property Miss Traill’s House and Garden and the cottage where former Prime Minister Ben Chifley and his wife Elizabeth lived. These properties are all strikingly different in style and size but each is impressive in its own way. Of special interest to many visitors is the fantastic Somerville Collection housed in the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum in Howick Street. The collection includes thousands of fossils and minerals and the only full T.rex skeleton in Australia – a must see for everyone.

These are just a few of the many wonderful things to see and do in Bathurst – a great city to visit, a perfect place to stay.

What to See & Do

Visit the T Rex in Fossil & Mineral Museum. Visit one of the beautiful villages in this region such as Peel and Wattle Flat on the way to Sofala, the oldest surviving gold town in Australia. Visit historic Perthville and maybe have a wagon ride. The Bathurst District Historical Museum and the Bathurst Art Gallery are full of treasures. VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Bathurst Visitor Information Centre 1 Kendall Avenue, Bathurst Phone: 1800 68 1000 E: visitors@bathurst.nsw.gov.au www.visitbathurst.com.au

...will take you there!

Bathurst Cultural Tours Tour of Award Winners of Bathurst

Week days Thursday 30th & Friday 31st May 2013. Weekend Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd June 2013. Day 1 - Arrive by car or on the X P T at 10.40 Thursday & Saturday. Introducing Sustainability, artists in their studios, Architecture, History and a garden. Day 2 - Hotel pick-up at 08.30. Friday & Sunday. A day visiting artisans, Architecture, History & Wine and honey tasting. Returning to the X P T for a 17.05 departure. Tour Cost - $260.00 which includes lunches, travel & entries. Places are limited, we recommend booking well in advance Contact: Mary or John Cuppaidge Phone: 6332 3356 - Mobile: 0427 32 3356 Email: mary.cuppaidge@bathurstculturaltours.com

www.bathurstculturaltours.com The surplus from our tours goes to headspace.

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Accommodation

a special arrangem ent has been mad e if you book direc with Rydges Mou nt Panorama Ho tel on ph 6338 18 t 88. dinner, bed & brea kfast bed & br Twin eakfast $260.00 Single $180.00 $205.00 $175.00

Two Pianos Simon Tedeschi, the internationally renowned concert pianist and Kevin Hunt, the highly acclaimed award winning jazz pianist are coming together to create an exciting and magical event. Tedeschi and Hunt serve up an exciting mix of audience favourites, with music from Bach to Duke Ellington and other classical and jazz greats such as Shostakovich, Debussy, Fats Waller, Brubeck and Oscar Peterson. Gershwin’s much-lauded masterpiece, Rhapsody in Blue receives a new pianistic polish from the two maestros. Particularly exciting for the duo will be their performance of Duke Ellington’s historic Black, from Black Brown and Beige. Premiering at New York’s Carnegie Hall in 1943 it portrayed the history of African Americans. “Simon has always loved jazz and has recently been soaking up the American Jazz feeling. Equally I have always loved

classical music for its detail of sound production and composition” says Kevin. “The music we play together constantly weaves between jazz and classical forms, and now after years of playing together our improvising has become an exciting focus of the performance.” When Simon and Kevin connect they weave music that is exhilarating, joyous, playful and heartfelt. A spectacular evening of music to fill the soul! Friday 24 May - 7.30pm All Saints Cathedral Church Street Bathurst Saturday 25 May 7.30pm Orange Regional Conservatorium Orange

Music that is exhilarating, joyous, playful and heartfelt. A spectacular evening of music to fill the soul! Friday 24 May - 7.30pm All Saints Cathedral Church Street Bathurst Saturday 25 May - 7.30pm Orange Regional Conservatorium For booking and information go to www.mitchellconservatorium.edu.au or call 6331 6622.

TICKETS: Adults $20, Seniors and Concession $15 & school age children free.

For all bookings and further details go to www.mitchellconservatorium.edu.au or call 6331 6622.

Descendants part of aerial crossing Descendants of the first recognised European explorers to cross the Blue Mountains will have an eagle’s eye view of the route when they take part in the Blue Mountains Bicentenary Flyover on May 25. Dozens of aircraft will follow the path trodden by Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth in 1813 during the first ever flyover of the mountains. In what is intended to be the largest civilian flyover in Australia, more than 35 civilian pilots have so far registered their interest in taking part in the event, flying the same route travelled by the original explorers, from Emu Plains through the Blue Mountains to Mount York. The aircraft will then fly via O’Connell near Oberon and on to Bathurst where Bathurst Aero Club will host a barbecue for flyover participants. Several descendants will take part in participating aircraft, alongside the

Two Pianos

renowned RAAF aerobatic team the Roulettes and German aviation legend Matthias Dolderer. Among the 12 other recommended live viewing sites along the route will be Melrose Park, Katoomba, where tethered hot air balloons and parachutists will entertain the gathered crowd. This will be a great spectacle for the people that view the aircraft flying overhead from Melrose Park or anywhere else along the route that can be found at www.visitbyroad.com.au. Flyover co-ordinator Matt Hall said he was honoured that some descendents had joined the flyover and encourages other pilots and aircraft owners to register for the historic event. Go to www.mathallracing.com for more details and to download a registration pack. Hall is currently working with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to allow pilots to brief for the flyover via video rather than in person so that pilots will be able to just meet up in the air at the right place and time en route. Aviation insurer QBE has also offered all participants, regardless of whether they are QBE clients, top up cover to $10 million for their liability insurance. Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon

Free Show

For Lucy, music has always been a meaningful experience, whether it’ll be listening to her mother singing The Beatles as a kid before she went to sleep, or how people relate to a particular song at a particular moment. From this, Lucy has always sought to create more experiences, and share her curiosities on love, life and people. With her own take on Pop fused with Jazz, Funk and Melodic Rock, she believes she can give back to audiences what music has given her – a transient, emotional adventure through reflective and observational lyrics and melodies. Lucy released her debut album Botany Street in 2010. Featuring singles such as “Dr Phil” , “Sing Me a Song” and “In The Middle”, Botany Street was shortlisted for 3 Aria nominations in the same year for Best Female Artist, Best Independent Release and Best Contemporary Artist.

Tourism chairman Randall Walker congratulated Mr Hammon onIt’s your Club instigating the flyover: ``This event promises to be one of the most Bathurst RSL Club LTD | 114 Rankin street | Phone (02) 63332999 | www.bathurstrsl.com.au spectacular ever to have occurred in the Blue Mountains. ``To celebrate a crossing by foot 200 years ago with a crossing by air, with historic aircraft will be an unforgettable experience. To celebrate one milestone in the nation’s history by creating another is a wonderful masterstroke of visionary Philip Hammon.’’ The flyover will be part of the Blue Mountains Crossings Bicentenary 20132015 program of events to mark the first recognised European crossing of the mountains by Gregory Blaxland, William Lawson and William Charles Wentworth. Visit www.bluemountainscrossings.com. au for information about the bicentenary or visit the Flyover Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/BlueMountai nsBicentenaryFlyover. Information from Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism Sponsored by

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Orange

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What to See & Do Orange, known as Australia’s Colour City with its four distinct seasons is located in Central NSW, 3 ½ hours from Sydney and within easy reach of the Blue Mountains. You will discover a welcoming city full of life, fruitful landscapes, historical buildings, diverse shopping, art and culture to surprise you and some of the best food and wine in Australia. Continuing to build its reputation for cool climate wines renowned for the regions flavour and quality and now

supports more than 30 cellar doors. It is Australia’s cool climate wine region where the topography ranges from Mt Canobolas at 1,395 metres down to around 600 metres. The combination of distinct seasons, rich soils, climate, sloping ground and glorious sunlight cause a slow maturation and ripening allowing a great intensity of fruit. Begin your journey into another country: Orange, the highest altitude wine region in Australia.

More to meet the eye at Lucknow Lucknow 8 klm east of Orange is a 60 klm speed zone and a great place to stop and explore off the beaten track. It is full of history and you never know what treasure you may find at 2 Fat Ladies, especially now they are so much larger! Local art is on display and for sale in the café and coffee shop area.

n Now Eve Larger!

Take a vignerons tour around the 30+ cellar doors. Ascend majestic Mt. Canobolas, walk to the spectacular Federal Falls then try out your canoe at Lake Canobolas below. Pleasure your palate with the wonderful fresh food and produce that abounds in Orange and its districts. Take a trip into the eerie limestone world of Tunnel Cave at Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve – take a torch. Visit the Orange Regional Gallery for an collection of unique art, photography and culture. Shopping choices abound in the City and surrounding shires to suit all tastes and budgets in fashion, antiques, homewares, arts, tools, jewellery, books, gardening and agriculture… the list is endless… VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Orange Visitor Information Centre 8.15am to 5pm Mon to Fri Corner Byng St & Lords Pl Orange NSW Phone: 02 6393 8000 - 1800 069 466 E: council@orange.nsw.gov.au www.visitorange.com.au

...will take you there!

Beading workshops regularly Enjoy the café and lolly shop Fab New Clothes for real women! Exciting new stock arriving daily! Great new handbags! New international gift lines, quality children’s lines and new season’s wear. www.2fatladies.com.au

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The Orange Apple Festival Celebrate all things Apples - our region, its history, as an orchard area and the fruit itself.

Program of event FRIDAY 11th MAY School Activities Schools have a variety of activities they are involving children in including: Art Competition, Planting Apple Trees, Educational programs (history of apple orchards and apple varieties grown in the area), Apple Pie drive, Dress up days, Mother’s Day Card making with apple focus. SATURDAY 12th MAY Orchard Walk & Morning Tea – 10.30am with Reg Kidd and enjoy morning tea with The Friends of the Botanic Gardens. $5pp. Bookings 0425 259 350 Orange Region Farmers Market - 8.30am – 1pm * We’ll have Apple Bobbing – on the half hour Starting at 9am – finishing with the 12 noon ‘bob’. Limited to 10 spots * Apple Cider tasting – join a Master Class with James Kendall from Small Acres Cyder at 10am 11am and 12 noon $10 pp (Places limited to 10) Bookings: 6365 2286 or sales@ smallacrescyder.com.au * Whitey’s (Apple) Pies at The Chef’s Table from 9.30-10.30 * Produce Bags will be for sale with Willa Arantz’s Apple design. * Live Music from the Orange Regional

Conservatorium SUNDAY 13th MAY Orange Apple Festival Fun Run – meet at Kinross Forest at 9.30am for a 2km, 4.8km or 9 km fun run. Enquiries: Frank Ostini, Orange Runners Club. Visit www.runnersclub.com.au Mother’s Day Morning Orchard Tour - Visit local apple orchardists, walk through the apple orchards; see a packing shed in action; taste apples straight off the tree. Bus charter departs Cook Park (Kite Street) 10.00am & returns 11.30am to Cook Park. Cost: donation to the growers - $5 per family - to book your seat call 0408 675 611 Heritage Apple Walk - 11am. Meet at Borrodell on the Mountain Cost: $10 Includes Bag of Apples Enquiries & Bookings Borry Gartrell 6365 3425 or 0418 865 217 Mother Days lunches at our local restaurants and cafes are serving up apple inspired dishes. See website for restaurants involved www.orangeapples.com.au OTHERS CELEBRATING THE APPLE Lunch at TAFE: Mon 7th & Tues 8th - In the Restaurant $30pp (3 course meal) Dinner AT TAFE Wed 9th - In the Bistro $10pp (2 course meal) Bookings Essential to Naomi 6391 5657 Lesley Russell cooks up an apple storm

- Local Chef Lesley Russell from Orange Regional Cooking School will conduct cooking classes with apple inspired dishes www.learntocook.com.au CWA NSW goes apples - The Country Women’s Association across NSW will incorporate apples into their dishes for the month of MAY Orange Art Society are hosting an Apple Art Exhibition 5, 8 - 13 May - The gallery can be found in the Car Park, near Harris Farm Enquiries Neil Skinner 6362 5729 Weekends10 - 4 Weekdays 10 - 2 Harris Farm Markets Orange shows support for the Orange Apple Festival - Orange Apples are available for Purchase at Harris Farm. Apple on the Green - Duntryleague Golf will hold a competition where golfers will be challenged to hit golf balls closest to the apple on the green Tuesday 8 May Apple on your pillow - People who stay in Orange at selected accommodation places will have an apple on their pillow to celebrate the weekend! See website for details www.orangeapples.com.au

Café & Lolly Shop lollies f o e g n a r g Amazin , all over K U , A S U m o fr well as s a ld r o w e th urites, o v a f n a li a tr Aus choice! unbeatable

Take away, views, parking, disabled access, great range of lollies, Fish River Roasters coffee, range of teas, chai lattes, offer homemade cakes, gluten free available, hours 9am-5pm 7 days, breakfast light meals and snacks. Art for sale.

Mitchell Highway Lucknow - Phone: 6365 5001 www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Molong The Molong RSL Club welcomes visitors. Come and browse their unique collection of commemorative artworks. The Servicemen and Servicewomen Portrait Gallery by Anne Marie Ingham depicts local identities in a tribute to their contribution in times of conflict. Stay for a fabulous meal on Thursday Friday or Saturday evening or get a pizza Thursday to Sunday. You will find local artwork for sale on the restaurant walls. Wander through our local shops including The Cane Shop, Country Clothes and the Sweet Shop, which is opposite a great Chinese Restaurant. Further up the road you will find our

Molong RSL Club 2 course Mothers Day lunch at noon Trading hours Mon-Tues; 3.00-9.00 pm Fri 2.00 – 11.00 pm Wed 11.30 am – 9.00 pm Sat 11.00 am – 10.00 pm Thurs 2.00 pm- Midnight Sun 11.00 am – 9.00 pm

Restaurant open Thur Fri Sat and Pizzas Thurs to Sunday eat in or take away parties catered for. Special diet with a phone call

Visitors welcome 22 –24 Riddell St Molong Ph 63668105

www.molongrsl.com 44 www.monthlyimag.com.au

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au Yarn Market where you can see lots of crafts and souvenirs. Talk to the friendly staff about the Cobb & Co Coach Houses and the beautiful Molong BiCentennial Embroidered Screen. Wander over the road to Jayes Gallery. Fairbridge Farm opened in 1937 as an agricultural school to assist children affected by poverty and neglect, closing in 1973. Today it is private property however as a tribute to former ‘Fairbridgians’ you will pass through the Fairbridge Remembrance Drive on the eastern entrance to town. Yuranigh’s Grave is a unique landmark located off the Mitchell Highway 2km east of Molong. A short drive down Yuranigh Road leads you to the burial site of Yuranigh, an aboriginal guide who accompanied Sir Thomas Mitchell on his 1846 expedition into Central Australia. The grave is marked by both a western a headstone and indigenous carved trees. The headstone pays tribute to Yuranigh’s courage and fidelity. The site is now a National Park.

What to See & Do

Check out the Yarn Market & Coach House Play a round of golf and experience our unique sand greens. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque walkway beside Molong Creek where you may even see a Platypus Check out the action at the skate park Visit Local galleries like Jayes Visit Yuranigh’s Aboriginal grave Browse for antiques and collectables and items of interest at local business houses View the Portrait Gallery at the RSL Stay 2 nights at the caravan park and the 3rd night is free! Try some local wines Take a drive through Cumnock & Yeoval and spot the “Animals on Bikes” paddock sculptures VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Molong Visitor Information Centre Bank Street Molong Phone: 6366 8260

...will take you there!

6 Wellington St, Molong This 3 bedroom clad home sits back off Wellington Street with views over Molong. $299,000 A modern lounge area awaits you inside, stepping into a study area with storage space and wood fire. 3 well appointed rooms Refurbished Modern bathroom with toilet Open country Kitchen with ample storage overlooking dining area with A/C. Laundry and Separate toilet Single garage with easy access from back lane Carport that can be utilised also from the back or the front of the property This home is situated on one half of the 1821m2 large block with the potential of further development on this large residential block.

Phone: Kim Ramsey 0428648826

To view this property and more visit www.williamsmachin.com.au

The Molong Museum & Fairbridge Farm Molong Historical Museum – May 26th, Open Day 12noon to 3pm The Museum can be open by request during the week and is beginning to open on a Sunday afternoon. The museum is housed in what was the Golden Fleece Hotel and tells the stories of Molong and district, its pioneers and industry. The museum features the Fairbridge Farm School exhibition which will illustrates aspects of life at the Fairbridge Farm over many years. The farm school was located 10km from Molong on the Orange Road and the signage is still there today as a reminder of an era that made a significant mark on Molong and Australia’s social history. A lot of the food was grown on the farm and meat slaughtered there, they also had their own dairy They baked their own bread every day. The kids went to scouts, guides, swimming and other sports. some say they had more opportunity there a better life than

they would have had in England at that time. Lots of different stories are at the museum. The exhibition has been made possible by funding from the Heritage Migration Office and the Sustainable Collections Program. Extended research has been undertaken in order to present a well documented and sensitive display that should appeal to all visitors. The exhibition recognises the contribution that these children, now adults, and some now deceased, have made to the community and also to Australia, becoming part of our national character and, most importantly, Molong’s history. Fairbridge Farm opened in 1937 as an agricultural school to assist children affected by poverty and neglect. From 28 boys in 1938, the school community grew to include its own Boy Scouts, Girl Guides and educated 1200 pupils before closing in 1973. The farm site is now private property located on Amaroo Road. There is a Fairbridge Remembrance Drive planted on the way into Molong. So many of the pupils who attended Fairbridge have positive memories from their experiences. However, as in many institutions of this type at this time, there were some instances that were very sad indeed. These have now been acknowledged with apologies and restitution is being addressed.

The NSW Migration Heritage Centre supported the Fairbridge Heritage Association Inc.’s heritage project to record the experiences of former British child migrants at the Fairbridge Farm School, Molong, which documents a chapter of Australian migration and settlement history. The Fairbridge organisation operated child migration schemes for underprivileged British children in Canada, Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) and Australia from 1912 until 1980. Parents were persuaded to sign over legal guardianship of their children, on the promise of a better life in these Commonwealth countries. Many of those children, now aged in their 60s and 70s, are now talking for the first time about their experiences. Loneliness was rife. Food was often inedible. The standard of education was limited. Disturbingly, more than half of the 39 oral histories recorded by the Fairbridge Heritage Association Inc. document physical and sexual abuse. All the oral histories have been lodged with State Library of NSW and are accessible for research purposes. The oral histories were subsequently incorporated in David Hill’s book The Forgotten Children and some of the accounts also appear in a documentary entitled The Long Journey Home screened on ABC Television on 17 November 2009.

Prime Development Opportunity - $199,000 What a rare opportunity to obtain such a great size block in the heart of Molong Prior DA approval for 8 stand alone villa’s. Prime location just minutes walk from the main CBD, schools, clubs and galleries Develop an investment portfolio or build your dream home with the privacy of an 3280sqm (approx.)in the heart of town! Owners have priced this land for a quick sale, so don’t miss your opportunity!

For further details:

Call Kerry Connelly on 0427 668 800

42 Bank Street, Molong 2866 - www.mccarrons.com.au www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

What's On May

Historical Festival Mamre Homestead

Orchids Out West

National Alpaca Week

Crossing

Blue Mountains Bicentenary Flyover

The Big Ride 4 Parkinson's 4-5 May Bikers will travel from Sydney to Parkes and back Ph 8875 8915 www.thebigride4parkinsons. gofundraise.com.au The Penrith Regional Gallery Until 19 May Birds. Showcases the work of 6 Australian artists. Ph 4735 1100. 86 River Rd, Emu Plains Penrith Commemorations of the 1813 Blue Mtns Crossing 11 May. Breakfast Function at South Creek farm. 11 May. Family Camp Out - Nepean River banks. 19 May. Historical Festival at Mamre Homestead. 25-26 May. "Back to Emu Plains Weekend". For more details, Ph Penrith Council 4732 7645 Bowen Mountain Community Arts Festival 4-5 May Ph 4572 1510 www.bowenmountain.org.au Bowen Mountain Park, Bowen Mountain Bridge to Bridge Power Boat Race 5 May On the picturesque Hawkesbury River. Ph 4575 1489 www.uhpbc.net Orchids Out West 17-19 May Orchid displays and sales. Ph 9671 6609 Hawkesbury Race Course, Clarendon National Alpaca Week - Hawkesbury Open Days 6-12 May www.hbmalpaca.com.au National Alpaca Week Open Days 4-5 May Ngullaminya Alpacas 6355 2393 Follow the signs from Coxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s River Road Little Hartley www.ngullaminyaalpacas.com Macquarie Towns Arts Society 24-26 May Annual autumn exhibition of arts and crafts. School of Arts, Richmond 21 Days on the Mountain 11-31 May To commemorate the first crossing, several Blue Mtns communities will be organising events. www.bluemountainscrossings.com.au Crossing 11 May - 8th June A play by Wendy Blaxland on the Blue Mtns crossing. Various venues - see website www.blaxlandanddaughter.com Blue Mountains Bicentenary Flyover 25 May Up to 300 aircraft following the first crossing route. Ph 4757 2000 www.bluemountainscrossings.com.au Various viewing areas - see website Blaxland Explorers Day 11 May Celebrates the crossing of the Blue Mtns in 1813. Ph 8859 0777 Station St Hall, Hope Street, Blaxland

46 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Winmalee Autumn Artfest 3-5 May One of the biggest art exhibitions in the Blue Mtns. Ph 4754 2822 Winmalee High School, High School Drive Ukulele Sundays at Springwood Sports Club 19 May 1-3pm The Blue MUGS will be saying "aloha" with their feel-good music and their enthusiasm for the ukulele. Ph 4751 1298. Macquarie Road, Springwood Blue Mountains Musical Society 24 May Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street Ph 1300 241 019 Civic Centre, Macquarie Road, Springwood St Thomas Autum Fair 4 May A great day out for families. Ph 4754 2554 www. staspringwood.catholic.edu.au 168 Hawkesbury Road, Springwood Australian Violin Ensemble (Musical Mozaika)Blue Mountains Concert Society 18 May Bookings required. www.bmconcerts.com Springwood High School Hall, Grose Rd, Faulconbridge Lawson Celebrates Lawson 21 May Celebrating 200 years of the Mtns crossing. Ph 4759 2123 www.bluemountainscrossings.com.au Bellevue Park, Lawson Wentworth Falls Bicentenary Crossings Celebration 25 May Celebrating the explorers arrival at Wentworth Falls. www.visitbluemountains.com.au Wentworth Falls Lake Blue Mountains Million Paws Walk 19 May Help raise funds for the RSPCA. Ph 4758 6173 www.nsw.millionpawswalk.com.au Melrose Park, 1 Albion Street, Katoomba Sydney Writers Festival in the Blue Mountains 13-16 May Ph 4782 5761 www.varuna.com.au The Carrington Hotel, Katoomba Sculpture at Scenic World Until 19 May Ph 4780 0200 www.scenicworld.com.au Cliff Drive, Katoomba WildEndurance 100K Team Challenge 4-5 May A fundraising run/hike through Megalong/ Jamieson Valleys. Ph 9282 9553 www.wildendurance.org.au The North Face 100 18-19 May A run through the Blue Mtns National Park. Ph 6230 5332 www.thenorthface.com.au/100

Blackheath Day Picnic 18 May 11am-2pm Picnic, markets, music, entertainment and games. Ph 4787 7770. Memorial Gardens, Cnr Gardiner Cres & GWH Blackheath. Blue Mountains Radio Players 25 & 26 May 'The Lost Special' at Mount Vic Flicks on the 25th; at Mountain Heritage on the 26th Colonial Dinner Dance 27 May Dinner at the Manor House, dancing at Mt Vic Flicks. Ph 4787 1369 www.bluemountainscrossings.com.au Montgomery Street, Mount Victoria Mount Tomah Botanic Garden All autumn. Adventure Quest - follow the clues. Daily. Attack of the carnivores. Until 19 May. Exhibition of Barbi Lock Lee's ceramics. Ph 4567 3000 www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au

Mt Wilson Autumn Gardens To 31 May A number of gardens are open to the public. Via Bells Line of Road Hartley Heritage Trail Rides 18 May Bring your horse and ride thru historic Hartley Valley. Ph 6355 2165 www.thehartleysaddlery.com.au 156 Fields Road, Hartley Vale Jenolan Caves 18 May 4pm. Cello concert with Georg Mertens. 25 May 4pm. Gypsy music with the Paginin Duo. Ph 1300 76 33 11 www.jenolancaves.org.au Bathurst Arts Trail 4-5 May Maps with artists' information and locations are available from Bathurst Visitor Information Centre. Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Exhibitions To 12 May Incl Goya's Los Caprichos etchings. Ph 6333 6555 70-78 Keppel St

Misty Rainforest - Mt Tomah

Markets

Monthly Markets Guide ROUSE HILL Organic Food and Farmers Market Rouse Hill Town Centre every Saturday 8am Â- 2pm in Market Square. HILLS HAWKESBURY Hawkesbury Harvest Farmers & Fine Food Market Castle Hill Showground. 2nd & 4th Saturdays 8am - 12pm Bilpin Markets District Hall, Bells Line of Road. Every Saturday 10am-12am Windsor Mall Craft Markets Between Baker and Fitzgerald Sts. Every Sunday 8.30am - 4.00pm PENRITH Showground Markets Station Street. Every Wed 8.30am-1.30pm Hawkesbury Harvest Farmers and Fine Food Penrith - adj to Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, High St. 1st Saturday 8am-1pm Luddenham Country Fair Markets Hubertus Country Club, 205 Adams Rd. Last Sunday 8.30am-2pm Vicaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vineyard Craft Markets Northern Road, Luddenham. 2nd Sunday 9.30am-4pm Ropes Crossing Rotary Market Forrester Rd, St Marys. Last Sunday 9am-2pm Kingswood Food & Craft Market Kingswood High School, Bringelly Rd. 2nd Sunday 9am-2pm BLUE MOUNTAINS Glenbrook Rotary Markets Glenbrook Infants School, Ross St. 3rd Saturday 9am-2pm Springwood Community Ivy Markets Civic Centre, Macquarie Road. 2nd Saturday 9am-1pm

Faulconbridge Blue Gum Rotary Markets Public School, Great Western Hwy. 4th Saturday 9am-2pm Lawson Magpie Markets Lawson Public School, Great Western Hwy. 3rd Sunday 9am-2pm Bullaburra Craft Markets Progress Hall, Noble St and Great Western Hwy. 1st Saturday 9am-3pm Leura Markets Leura Public School, Great Western Hwy. 1st Sunday 9am-2pm Leura Blue Mountains Market CWA Hall Megalong Street Leura Every Friday & 1st & 3rd Saturdays 9am - 4.30pm Also Thursdays during school holidays Bluebird Market Alexandra Hotel, Leura. 1st Saturday Katoomba Craft Market St Canice's Hall, 158 Katoomba Street. 2nd Sunday 9am-2pm Blackheath Craft Markets Community Hall, Great Western Hwy. 3rd Sunday 9am-2pm Blackheath Community Market Blackheath Public School Hall. 1st Sunday 9am-1pm LITHGOW New Village Market Civic Ballroom at the Showground. 4th Sunday 9am till 1pm Capertee Markets Castlereagh Hwy. 3rd Sunday Portland Community Markets Portland Golf Club. 3rd Saturday 9am-2pm Portland Tidy Town Markets Williewa St. 1st Sunday 9am-2pm

Bowenfels Station Markets Old Bowenfels Station Markets 3rd Saturday OBERON Tablelands Way Farmers Markets St Barnabas Park, Oberon Street. 1st Saturday 8am-1pm BATHURST Farmers Markets Showground. 4th Saturday 8am-12am Family Markets Showground. 2nd Sunday 8am-4pm Macquarie Lions Flea Markets Berry Park. 1st Saturday 8.30am-1.30pm ORANGE Milthorpe Markets Redmond Oval, Park St 1st Sunday 8.30am-4pm Orange Region Farmers Market North Court, Peisley St. 2nd Saturday 8.30am-12.30pm Rotary Sunday Markets Orange Central, Byng St. Sunday 8am-12am MUDGEE Church Markets St Johns Anglican Church, Church and Market Streets. 1st Saturday 9am-1pm Community Markets Lawson Park, cnr Church & Short Sts 2nd Saturday Farmers Markets St Marys Catholic Church, Market and Church Streets. 3rd Saturday 8.30am-12.30pm Gulgong Markets Coronation Park. 4th Sat from 8.30am Artisan & Produce Markets Memorial Hall, Louee St Rylstone 2nd Saturday 9am -1.30 pm

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Gulls

Herons, Egrets & Bitterns Australian Little Bittern R Nankeen Night Heron R Cattle Egret R White-necked Heron U Great Egret R Intermediate Egret R

Stilts, Plovers, Waders, etc. Black-winged Stilt R Banded Lapwing R Masked Lapwing C Red-kneed Dotterel R Black-fronted Dotterel C Australian Painted Snipe R Latham’s Snipe R Common Greenshank R Sharp-tailed Sandpiper R

Frogmouths & Nightjars Tawny Frogmouth U White-throated Nightjar U Owls Sooty Owl R Australian Masked Owl R Eastern Barn Owl U Powerful Owl R Barking Owl U Southern Boobook C

Pardalotes Honeyeaters Yellow-faced Honeyeater C Singing Honeyeater R White-eared Honeyeater U Yellow-tufted Honeyeater C Fuscous Honeyeater C White-plumed Honeyeater C Lewin’s Honeyeater R Bell Miner U Noisy Miner C Blue-faced Honeyeater R Black-chinned Honeyeater U Brown-headed Honeyeater U White-naped Honeyeater C Little Friarbird R Noisy Friarbird C Striped Honeyeater U Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater U Red Wattlebird C Regent Honeyeater U Painted Honeyeater U Crescent Honeyeater R New Holland Honeyeater U White-cheeked Honeyeater R Eastern Spinebill U Black Honeyeater R Scarlet Honeyeater U Crimson Chat R

Sparrows & Finches House Sparrow U I Beautiful Firetail R Diamond Firetail C Red-browed Finch C Plum-headed Finch U Zebra Finch C

Fantails & Monarchs Willie Wagtail C Orioles Olive-backed Oriole C Whistlers & allies Crested Shrike-tit U Gilbert’s Whistler R Golden Whistler U Rufous Whistler C Grey Shrike-thrush C

Capertee Valley

Grebes Australasian Grebe C Hoary-headed Grebe R

Rails, Crakes & Water-hens Buff-banded Rail U Baillon’s Crake R Spotless Crake R Purple Swamphen U Dusky Moorhen C Black-tailed Native-hen R Eurasian Coot U

Ducks, Geese & Swans Black Swan R Australian Shelduck R Pink-eared Duck R Australian Wood Duck C Pacific Black Duck C Australasian Shoveler R Grey Teal U Chestnut Teal R Hardhead U Blue-billed Duck R Musk Duck R

Falcons Nankeen Kestrel C Australian Hobby U Brown Falcon C Black Falcon R Peregrine Falcon U

Quails Stubble Quail U Brown Quail C

Kites, Hawks & Eagles Square-tailed Kite R Black-shouldered Kite C Black Kite R Whistling Kite R White-bellied Sea-Eagle R Swamp Harrier R Spotted Harrier U Grey Goshawk R Brown Goshawk U Collared Sparrowhawk U Wedge-tailed Eagle C Little Eagle U

KEY: C = common in the valley; U = uncommon; R = rare in the valley; I = introduced

Cuckoos Eastern Koel U Channel-billed Cuckoo U Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo C Black-eared Cuckoo R Shining Bronze-Cuckoo C Pallid Cuckoo C Fan-tailed Cuckoo C Brush Cuckoo U Parrots & Lorikeets Rainbow Lorikeet R Musk Lorikeet U Little Lorikeet C Crimson Rosella U Eastern Rosella C Red-rumped Parrot C Turquoise Parrot U Swift Parrot R Budgerigar R Australian King-Parrot U Red-winged Parrot R

Cockatoos Glossy Black-Cockatoo U Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo U Gang-gang Cockatoo U Galah C Long-billed Corella R I Little Corella C Sulphur-crested Cockatoo C

Birds you may see in the Capertee Valley

Great Cormorant U Australasian Darter R

Crested Pigeon C Wonga Pigeon U Diamond Dove R Peaceful Dove C Bar-shouldered Dove U

Treecreepers White-throated Treecreeper U Red-browed Treecreeper R Brown Treecreeper C Bowerbirds Satin Bowerbird U Lyrebirds Superb Lyrebird U Sacred Kingfisher U Red-backed Kingfisher R Azure Kingfisher U Rainbow Bee-eater C

Acknowledgments and information Bird site: www.caperteebirder.com

Approximately 242 bird species have been recorded in the Capertee Valley. Many of the birds on this list are nomadic or migratory; they may be in the valley for only a few months each year.

Fairy-wrens Variegated Fairy-wren U Superb Fairy-wren C

Reporting bird sightings Regent Honeyeater hotline: phone 1800 621 056 Swift Parrot hotline: phone 1800 665 766

Sittellas Varied Sittella U

Cuckoo-shrikes & Trillers Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike C White-bellied Cuckoo-shrike U Cicadabird U White-winged Triller U

Woodswallows White-breasted Woodswallow R Masked Woodswallow U White-browed Woodswallow C Dusky Woodswallow C Butcherbirds & allies Grey Butcherbird U Pied Butcherbird U Australian Magpie C Pied Currawong U Grey Currawong R Babblers, Whipbirds, etc. Grey-crowned Babbler U White-browed Babbler C Eastern Whipbird U Spotted Quail-thrush U Weebill C Brown Gerygone R Western Gerygone U White-throated Gerygone C Brown Thornbill U Buff-rumped Thornbill U Yellow-rumped Thornbill C Yellow Thornbill C Striated Thornbill U Southern Whiteface U

Starlings & Mynas Common Myna R I Common Starling C I

Swallows & Martins White-backed Swallow U Welcome Swallow C Fairy Martin C Tree Martin C White-eyes Silvereye C Larks, Cisticolas, Reed-Warblers, etc. Horsfield’s Bushlark U Golden-headed Cisticola U Australian Reed-Warbler U Tawny Grassbird R Little Grassbird R Rufous Songlark C Brown Songlark U Australian Robins Eastern Yellow Robin C Hooded Robin U Jacky Winter C Rose Robin U Flame Robin U Scarlet Robin U Red-capped Robin U Australian Mudnesters White-winged Chough C Ravens & Crows Little Raven U Australian Raven C

Capertee Valley is wider and longer than the USA’s Grand Canyon. The valley is Bird tours and information: www.bmbirding.com.au recognised internationally as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and one of the 50 top Birdlife Australia: www.birdlife.org.au/projects/ woodland-birds-for-biodiversity birdwatching places in the world. Bicentennial National Trail: www.nationaltrail.com.au This scenic valley encompasses the hamlets of Glen Davis, This scenic valley encompasses of GlenCapertee Davis, Glen Alice, Bogee and is Glen Alice and Bogee and is surrounded the by thehamlets Wollemi, Valley information: www.caperteevalleyway.com.au Capertee and Gardens of Stone national parks and the surrounded by the Wollemi, Capertee and Gardens of Stone national parks and the Mugii Murum-ban State Conservation Area. A diversity Download a PDF of this brochure: of habitats has resulted in a proliferation of bird species caperteevalleyalliance.blogspot.com.au Mugii Murum-ban State Conservation Area. A diversity of habitats has resulted in a finding refuge here. Surrounded on all sides by spectacular Capertee Valley photos: sandstone of cliffs, the valley is in a transition zone where the caperteevalleyphotos.blogspot.com.au proliferation bird species finding refuge here. Surrounded on all sides by spectacular forests of the Blue Mountains give way to the woodlands Fiona Lumsden wildlife artist: www.fionalumsden.com sandstone cliffs, theslopes. valley is in varies a transition of the NSW western Vegetation from semi- zone where the forests of the Blue Mountains Cover images: Dean Ingwersen & Chris Tzaros rainforest to open forest, grassy woodlands and farmland give way to theNotwoodlands the other NSW vegetation varies from semiAccommodation grasslands. as heavily clearedof as many ruralWestern slopes, www.caperteevalleyway.com.au areas, the valley retains large areas of the critically rainforest to open forest grassy woodlands and farmland grasslands. Not as heavily www.rylstone.com endangered White Box–Yellow Box–Blakely’s Red Gum www.tourism.lithgow.com Woodland and Derived Native Grassland. Many clearedGrassy as many other rural area, the valley retains large areas of the critically endangered woodland bird species, whose populations have fallen Contact us with suggestions Whitealarmingly Box-Yellow Box Blakely’ Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native elsewhere, remain relativelyscommon and Any suggestions or information that might improve this brochure would be appreciated. Please email easily seen here. Grassland. Many woodland bird species, whose populations have fallen alarmingly caperteevalleyallinc@ipstarmail.com.au Regent Honeyeater tree planting elsewhere, remain relatively common and easily seen here. In recent years a prime conservation You have more chance of seeing a Regent been extending the habitat Beforefocus youhasset off... Part of the Valley’ s incharm is its comparative isolation. There are no Honeyeater the of the highly endangered Regent Capertee Valley than Honeyeater. Working with landholders cafes, no petrol stations, and depending on your service provider and service location, anywhere else in the and volunteers, the Capertee Valley world. Illustration: there may no mobile Regentbe Honeyeater Recovery phone Program coverage. Fiona Lumsden. has planted over 100,000 trees in the valley, on private property. A 2008 survey on the Bird Trail map are easily accessible. A small All 19 bird-watching sites shown found 86 species of birds in these planted sectionareas, of the route isbeing unsealed with six of these rare and/ but suitable for 2WD vehicle to visit Site 8. or endangered. Tree-planting weekends are held each spring and autumn and new volunteer tree-planters are always welcome; no experience necessary. For more information about volunteer tree-plantings in the Capertee Valley contact Birdlife Australia (Sydney office) on 02 9647 1033.

Button-quails Painted Button-quail C Red-chested Button-quail R Little Button-quail R

Flowerpeckers Mistletoebird C

Thrushes Bassian Thrush R Common Blackbird R I

Welcome to the Capertee Valley A nature based destination like no other Capertee Valley is within the traditional country of the Wiradjuri people. Located on the western edge of the Blue Mountains and only three hours travel from Sydney, it is the widest enclosed valley in the world – wider and longer than the USA’s Grand Canyon. The valley is recognised internationally as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and one of the 50 top birdwatching places in the world.

Ibises & Spoonbills Australian White Ibis U Straw-necked Ibis U Glossy Ibis R Royal Spoonbill U Yellow-billed Spoonbill U

Map & Guide to Birdwatching To Hunter Valley & Newcastle via Bylong

To Mudgee

Rylstone Kandos To Bathurst Bogee

Ilford

Glen Alice

Capertee Valley

Glen Davis

Capertee

Castlereagh Highway

Lithgow To Canberra via Oberon

Bells Line of Road

To Sydney Katoomba

Great Western Highway

To find out more about your national parks visit the Blue Mountains Heritage Centre,

of Govetts Leap Road, Blackheath, 2780. Open 7 days (except Christmas day) See the link end 9.00am to 4.30pm; T (02) 4787 8877; www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/4974639/caperteebirds-webnov2012-pdf-963k?da=y for the bird brochure, ((c) Capertee Valley Alliance.) CAPERTEE VALLEY

capertee valley

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Information & Bookings Ph: 02 6359 0157 A 48 www.monthlyimag.com.au

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THE CUBBY HOUSE

FARMSTAY

For a peaceful and relaxing visit. experience farm life. Phone (02) 6358 8288 “Eagles View” 394 Vulcan Rd, Running Stream www.TheCubbyHouseFarmstay.com.au

where to stay