Sydney, Blue Mountains and Central West iMag - April 2015 by iMag Publications Pty Ltd

Sydney, Blue Mountains and Central West

April 2015

Wedding Venues

Celebrate Iron fest 2015!

inside!

best we t of t h e s o m wine. e Make th er in food and ff o have to

Inside • • •

Regional Maps Where to eat, stay and What to do Win award winning zoo passes • Free Sydney Royal Easter Showlink tickets

www.monthlyimag.com.au

Enjoy adventu

re events!

Taste the Blue Mountains

‘We believe everyone has the right to access good, clean and fair food’ Slow Food is an international non-profit 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 small-scale 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

Carrington Cellars and Deli have different offerings each week with seasonal features tastings and demonstrations including recipes. They are part of the local social scene. We look forward to sharing their regular seasonal news with you in the magazine and online.

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.

2 www.monthlyimag.com.au

ON ONPARKE PARKESTREET STREET (AT (AT REAR OF OF THE CARRINGTON HOTEL) HOTEL) The Hotel15-47 15-47katoomba KatoombaSt,St, Katoomba 2780 The Carrington Carrington Hotel Katoomba 2780 www.thecarrington.com.au T +61 2 4782 1111 www.thecarrington.com.au T +61 2 4782 0999

Looking for… ... something to do… … someplace to eat… … somewhere to stay…

eat

play stay

ains t n u o M e lu B e … in th Explore the galleries Visit the studios Meet the Artists & Artisans Check the website for venues & details

Happy

Easter

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

Country Organic Coffee, Lithgow

Visit Mamre House for your next event - Or drop in for a Tour of our Farm and enjoy Devonshire scones. Enjoy a relaxing Barista made Wood Roasted Coffee with Country style home cooked MEALS & Great Pies in spacious and comfortable surroundings while travelling. Monday - Friday 7:00AM - 6:00PM Saturday 7:30AM - 7:00PM Sunday 8:00AM - 7:00PM

1038 Great Western Highway, Lithgow (Beside KFC) Phone: 6351 3933 countryorganiccoffee.com.au

(bookings essential numbers over 10 people) Call or check our website for more details.

For tours, educational programs and events please see our website

www.mamre.com.au

Mamre Cafe is no longer open to passing trade so we can better accomodate our events Open every day except Monday. 181 MAMRE RD ORCHARD HILLS Tel: 02 9670 6178 www.mamre.com.au

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Lake Lyell © Margaret Edwards

From the Editor April Explore with us these Autumn holidays! Happy Easter and enjoy the Anzac commemorations. A great time to enjoy in our wonderful regions! Our cover photo by Ian Ritchie is from last year’s Ironfest – a festival that has been copied but the original is still the best! More details are on the back page. We feature more outstanding wedding venues for you from a riverside at Wisemans Ferry, superb indulgence at Yester Grange, garden weddings and Red Oak in the vineyards, all with their own flavour of accommodation options. Many wedding options give you the best choice! Check them all out in this magazine and online. Our sports have been doing so well; don’t miss the international Polo – details page 12 and photo front cover. Relax and unwind at award winning inspirational venues with those you love. We have food for your soul and all your senses - the Art and music are amazing, including workshops, activities to stimulate, inform or soothe. Orange region’s FOOD week offers a range of events over 10 days while Bathurst is celebrating all year. Rain followed by sunshine has led to spectacular gardens – come and enJoy! The Zoo is offering family passes and the chance to check out the new ZooFari setup at Dubbo. I also have 10 tickets to give away to Australia’s largest event, Sydney

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Contents

Royal Easter Show. Like Blue Mountains iMag Facebook page and tell us why you should win. Enjoy from the Mountains to the sea, along our waterways, above and below the ground. We have markets, really fresh produce, and many roads less travelled… Explore by car, on foot, on horseback or by public transport, sample our different restaurants and stay in different areas… really have a great time! Enjoy our improved and newly opened roads! As daylight hours shorten, take your pick of adventures. You are in this ancient land with its world heritage listed areas and unique ecosystems… look around you and drink it in… stay a while with us… consider what is most precious to you and plan to enjoy it. 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!

Hills & Hawkesbury

Parramatta/Penrith

Lower Blue Mountains

Wentworth Falls

Leura Village

Main Map

Katoomba

Blackheath to Mt Victoria

Hartley & surrounds

Lithgow

Wallerawang/Portland

Oberon/Bathurt

Mount Tomah

Molong

Orange & Districts

Kevin 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

4 www.monthlyimag.com.au

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 copies printed monthly, distributed and recirculated 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 Compiled by Nicole Collis, Tang Print Media Production Subscription to magazine $30 per year.

Taste sensations

FREE Information Guide

Download

the latest from our new website

www.monthlyimag.com.au

EASTER School Holidays Take a trip to the Blue Mountains this Easter School Holidays from Friday 2nd April to Sunday 19th April. Take your taste buds on a tour with delectable delights from the Blue Mountains and surrounding regions. Jamison’s Restaurant 5pm to 9.30pm Good Friday Buffet Dinner $54 PER ADULT I

$34 PER CHILD (12 - 16 YEARS) I $15 (1 - 11 YEARS)

Saturday Seafood Buffet Dinner $79 PER ADULT I $39 PER CHILD (12 - 16 YEARS) I $15 (1 - 11 YEARS)

Easter Sunday Buffet Dinner $49 PER ADULT I $29 PER CHILD (12 - 16 YEARS) I $15 (1 - 11 YEARS) JAMISON’S FAMILY DINING Dinner Sunday to Friday 5pm to 7pm THE TERRACE Dinner Sunday to Friday 6pm to 9.30pm EUCALYPT RESTAURANT Dinner Thursday to Saturday 6pm to 9.30pm EMBERS DINING Daily 12pm to late SUBLIME LOUNGE Daily 9.30am to late

1 Sublime Point Road Leura NSW 2780 I Ph: 02 4785 0000 I Email: reservations@fairmontresort.com.au I www.fairmontresort.com.au

Jenolan Caves

TROLLEY TOURS

Experience one of the World’s ﬁnest cave systems with underground rivers and spectacular limestone formations. Coach tour departs Katoomba 10.35am. Daily (return to Katoomba daily by 3.30pm). Coach tour includes informative commentary. (Coach does not operate Christmas Day).

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

Concession $50

Child $38

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + ADMISSION CHIFLEY CAVE OR LUCAS CAVE Concession $73

Child $65

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + ADMISSION TO ORIENT CAVE Concession $77

Child $69

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + ADMISSION TO CHIFLEY & LUCAS CAVES Concession $92

Child $85

RETURN COACH TRAVEL + PLUG HOLE ADVENTURE CAVING Concession $137

55 84 90 109 142 $

E AT BOOK ONLIN OM.AU LEYTOURS.C WWW.TROL

2 DAY

Per Adult

Bookings are essential e at and can be made onlinm.au .co rs ou www.trolleyt

144

ULTIMATE $ DISCOVERY PACKAGE

All Day Trolley Tours Ride plus unlimited Adult rides on Scenic Railway / Cableway and Skyway at Scenic World. (Valid 1 day only). Concession $128 / Plus Coach Tour to Jenolan Caves and Guided Tour of Chiﬂey Cave.

Child $94

Per Adult

H TRAVEL ONE WAY COAC ADULT CONCESSION 0 $4 / ULT AD 5 $4 ilable dation also ava (overnight accommo ) s.com.au for details see www.trolleytour

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)

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

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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.

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 DURAL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE The Pines and Roughley House 656a Old Northern Road, Dural Phone (02) 9651 4411 www.hhart.com.au info@hhart.com.au

...will take you there!

Your Experience At Tobruk

Congratulations Top resort with a country feel toquality The Retreat at Wisemans, So many different great things to do! recognized as one of leading Perfect for all your Special our Occasions bridal venues at the 18th NSW Annual Bridal Industry Awards held in December.

What a great place to propose! 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

6 www.monthlyimag.com.au

• Australian owned and family operated property • Real life on an outback station • Aussie damper and traditional billy tea from the fire • Feed the animals • Working sheep dogs • Sheep mustering • Live sheep shearing • Stockwhips • Boomerangs • Aussie BBQ • Amazing duck show • Tractor ride (optional) • Farm stay available

Also open Mothers Day! 5050 Old Northern Road, Maroota NSW 2756 Ph: 02 4566 8223

A celebration of fleeting life On show at Hawkesbury Regional Gallery in Windsor 10 April to 24 May is work by Laura Jones, who grew up in Kurrajong, in a house her father designed. In a recent interview, Laura told Lucy Feagins of The Design Files: ‘My mother is a character in Kurrajong, and famous for her cooking and entertaining. Their front door is still always wide open for anyone who feels like a chat or meal. I have a lot of memories of her maxing out the phone bill when we were growing up. Both parents encouraged my brother and I to do what we love and to be engaged with and contribute to the world. We met a lot of people growing up, and were always taught to value a beautiful life… family, friends, food, (flowers, we always had flowers!) and so on. I was always making things as a kid, and encouraged by everyone around me to make art. I absolutely loved it. We spent a lot of time outside.’ Flowers have always been part of Laura Jones’ life, so it is no surprise that she is making a name for herself as the creator of exquisite, vibrant still lifes. She describes her work as ‘Explosions of paint and colour made joyfully and sometimes with difficulty, always with love! Artistically and technically speaking, I’m trying to freeze time with paint by capturing fleeting life, as artists have done for centuries. But I’m also trying to celebrate life through paint, and use paint to learn this lesson over and over again.’

Also on show, David Lawrey & Jaki Middleton, who create sculptural artworks that incorporate motion, optical phenomena and repetition. Appropriating iconic snippets of film, photography and history, the artists restage these fragments within sculptural installations in order to observe, break down and reconfigure familiar narratives. The artists have exhibited their work in Sydney, London and New York, and recently returned from a residency at the Cité Internationale des Arts, Paris. Lawrey & Middleton’s works have been collected by private collectors in Australia and

overseas as well as the MCA, Sydney and the Wollongong City Gallery. Please note that the gallery will be closed for painting in the first week of April. Hawkesbury Regional Museum in Windsor has a new display commemorating The Great War. Titled Hawkesbury Heroes, it honours the 600 men and women who saw active service, and includes uniforms, medals, letters and equipment. Many objects, kindly loaned from private collections and family members of WWI soldiers, have never before been on public display.

David Lawrey & Jaki Middleton, The Bear that wasn’t, 2013, sculpture. Courtesy the artists and Gallery 9, Sydney.

Laura Jones, Durian and flannel flower still life, 2014

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Banksia Yarns Located in the Magnolia Mall arcade in Richmond, Banksia Yarns offers an array of fine knitting yarns from lace-weight to chunky in a kaleidoscope of colours. From commercially produced to hand spun / hand dyed yarns, there is enough here to tantalise the tastebuds of any knitter / crocheter.

• Lots of gift ideas. • Tours & groups welcome (by appointment). Hours: Mon- Wed 9.30 - 5.00 Thurs-Fri 9.30 - 6.00 Sat 9.30 - 2.00 Follow us on Facebook for news, specials, holiday closing times and details of new winter stock coming in store.

In store, we have: • Australian & imported: wools / mohair / alpaca / cotton yarns. • Knitting & crochet: hooks / needles / patterns etc. • Knitting & crocheting classes & workshops (contact us for details & bookings). • Gift vouchers.

gift ideas & gift cards

Autumn/Winter trading hours

Mon- Wed 9.30 - 5.00 Thurs-Fri 9.30 - 6.00 Sat 9.30 - 2.00 Check out our bargain tables for great specials!

e Hawkesbury h t g n i t i s ? Vi

Our helpful and knowledgeable staff can assist you to put together an itinerary from our range of maps and brochures to make the most of your travel covering local, regional and interstate destinations

Come and see us at the Hawkesbury Visitor Information Centre and get the most out of your visit. Open Everyday (excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday)

Ham Common, Hawkesbury Valley Way, Clarendon (Opposite Richmond RAAF Base) Phone 1300 362 874 Email: hawkesburytourism@pacific.net.au

8 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Getting about… We’re fortunate to have a variety of choices of transportation as well as destinations close to Sydney. Just 15 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, Manly sits on a beautiful peninsula surrounded on three sides by sparkling Pacific Ocean and spectacular Sydney Harbour. For your added pleasure, the attraction of 18 pristine beaches including one of Australia’s most famous and most beautiful, hidden coves and inlets, breathtaking National Parks, Aboriginal sites and historic landmarks make up the Northern Beaches up to Palm Beach, where the TV Show Home and Away is filmed, better known to audiences the world over as Summer Bay. Catch a ferry to many destinations including Taronga Zoo or to Parramatta. There are many bus and coach tours, helicopter flights… but I am partial to the ferries as a great way to explore from a Sydney or Parramatta base, enjoying the scenery on the way and avoiding traffic jams. We also have an excellent rail network including light rail and Country Link. Why not plan a trip from Taronga Zoo at Mosman, exploring what interests you along the way, to Taronga Western Plains Zoo? Ask a Visitor Information Centre to assist you with your plans. The Blue Mountains and Sydney have always tended to swap destinations with each area able to provide contrast to the other. Sydney with its beaches is warmer than the Mountains where relief is provided with the cool nights. The character of our National Parks varies in the regions, with our Botanic Gardens providing different adventures. Sydney loves to enjoy the snow in our mountains and parts of our Central west with Festivals and open fires at night. As our cities become more populated, they are offering world class Festivals and entertainment but it’s so good to unwind in our ancient landscapes… you are welcome!

Be cool by the Pool Orchids OUT WEST Dreamwood Estate Bed and Breakfast is only about an hour's drive west of Sydney in the beautiful Hawkesbury Valley. As our B&B Guest you can stretch out and relax by the 12m solar heated Mineral Pool, enjoying the country air and tranquil views. If you're feeling more active you can easily take a day trip to the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley, or explore the many historical treasures of the local area. Dreamwood Estate Bed and Breakfast provides you with delightfully appointed fully air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi (limits), home baked afternoon tea on arrival and a self-serve breakfast so you can rise and shine at your leisure. Our Border Collie family is always happy to greet new B&B friends with lots of fun and excitement, while our inquisitive alpacas will say hello and pose for a photo with Guests who join us on our evening alpaca walk. Find Dreamwood Estate on Facebook and download the Hawkesbury Harvest Farm Gate Trail App for more details.

Orchids Out West comprises beautiful displays put on by the local orchid societies such as Blacktown City Orchid Society, Blue Mountains and Penrith District Orchid Society, Hawkesbury District Orchid Society. There are also lots of orchids for sale from vendors from around Australia. Orchids Out West is a fair with a great selection of plants to be purchased to enhance your orchid collection, and always something new to oh and ah over. Every year the displays improve in quality and are always very colourful thanks to the wonderful collection of orchids of all genera, such as cattleyas, paphiopedilums and cymbidiums.

Friday 15th May ‐ Sunday 17th May 9.00 am ‐ 4.00 pm Friday and Saturday 9.00 am ‐ 3.00 pm Sunday Hawkesbury Racecourse Racecourse Rd, Clarendon

2015

(Opposite Richmond RAAF Base)

Vendors

Royale Orchids Sim's Orchids Dark Star Orchids Orchid Displays — Plants for Sale Dendi Orchids Free growing advice — Plenty of free parking Rosella Orchids Sausage sizzle and light refreshments available Orchids on Newbold Burbank Orchids Cedarvale Orchids Enquiries 0408 264 040

Adults: $5.00 — Buses: $4.00 Children under 15 yrs: Free

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

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Parramatta - Penrith

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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.

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!

Now Parramatta is a city within Sydney’s metropolitan area. It lies along the 15-mile or 24-km Parramatta River, which enters

Parramatta has many historic buildings, including Elizabeth Farm (Built in 1793, it is the nation’s oldest surviving European

How to discover the PRICELESS HERITAGE where you live, work and play Enjoyable LUNCHTIME TALK every Thursday at Hambledon Cottage Coach House, Gregory Place, Parramatta,12-30pm Bring along your favourite sandwich, FREE tea and coffee from Parramatta & District Historical Society - gold coin donation. Thursday April 16 - “Know what happened during the riot at the Female Factory" Guest speaker: Gay HENDRIKSEN, Friends of Female Factory Parramatta.

What to See & Do Sunday 20 Walk

Thursday April 23 - "The meaning of the Spirit of Anzac through letters and diaries of men who were there" Guest speaker: Ian HAWTHORN, Lancer Barracks. Thursday April 30 - "How did Lady Mary FitzRoy die? Lifetime and troubles of Governor FitzRoy" Guest speaker: David HOFFMAN, manager Old Government House. How to take a healthy WALK on Sunday - Morning tea in the Hambledon Cottage Coach House at 10am followed by a guided WALK of discovery. Easy grade - wear hat and comfortable shoes. Donation of $5 to Parramatta & District Historical Society. Sunday April 12 - "Where are Clay Cliff Creek and that lonely grave?" Leaders: Enid and Ian TURBIT Sunday April 19 - "What did they make at the Female Factory?" Leader: Anne MATHEWS a car pool project. Sunday April 26 - "Why the Lancers traded their 100 horses for 640 horsepower" Leader: Trevor PATRICK

Parramatta & District Historical Society Inc.

63 Hassall Street, corner Gregory Place, Parramatta. Parking in the grounds, an easy-grade walk from Parramatta River Ferry Wharf, railway station, Metrobus M92 stops at main gate. Telephone (02) 9635-6924 (Hambledon Cottage OPEN Thursday to Sunday 11am to 4pm. Adults $6, Children $2, Concession $5 Group tours every day of the week by appointment) BRISLINGTON New Exhibition Parramatta Nurses who served in World War I Open Thursdays

www.parramattahistorical.org.au email: parramattahist@tpg.com.au

10 www.monthlyimag.com.au

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 extra accommodation for family and friends. 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

Try the ferry. A beautiful way to get around a lot of places. 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!

Hurry! Last Days - Exhibition 'Life and Times of our first governor Arthur Phillip' closing soon!

Penrith - The adventure capital Penrith is the ideal place to have your next adventure; there is so much to see, explore and discover and its proximity to Sydney means visitors can come for the day or stay for a couple of days to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Thrill-seekers can visit iFly Downunder, Australia’s only indoor skydiving facility and the southern hemisphere’s best white-water facility, Penrith Whitewater Stadium. There is also Jetpack Adventures at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, Luddenham Raceway, Cables Wake Park and a 737 JetFlight Simulator.

Visitors wanting to keep their feet on the ground can take in one of the world-class concerts and performances at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, see an exhibition at the Penrith Regional Gallery, go on a tour at the Go-Shu Sake Factory or learn about the history of firefighting at the Museum of Fire. Surrounded by mountains, sweeping valleys and lakes, and with the stunning Blue Mountains in the backdrop, there really is no better place to explore the great outdoors. Relax on a cruise along

the Nepean River or step things up with a bushwalk to ‘The Rock’ lookout. Visit www.visitpenrith.com.au for more information or call 1300 736 836 (weekdays only).

What to See & Do FOR AN ACTION PACKED ADVENTURE:

737 JET FLIGHT SIMULATOR EXPERIENCE Unit 1 /9-11 Abel Street, Penrith Ph: 4722 5747 CABLES WAKE PARK Behind Panthers Complex, Mulgoa Road, Penrith Ph: 4722 2537 IFLY DOWNUNDER 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith Ph: 1300 366 364 JETPACK ADVENTURES Jetpack Lake, Gate D, Old Castlereagh Road, Cranebrook Ph: 0474 538 722 LUDDENHAM RACEWAY 821 - 849 Luddenham Road, Luddenham Ph: 9834 2366 PENRITH WHITEWATER STADIUM McCarthy’s Lane, Cranebrook Ph: 4730 4333 FOR A LAID BACK ADVENTURE:

MUSEUM OF FIRE 1 Museum Drive, Penrith Ph: 4731 3000 JOAN SUTHERLAND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE 597 High Street, Penrith Ph: 4723 7600 PENRITH REGIONAL GALLERY & LEWERS BEQUEST 86 River Road, Emu Plains Ph: 4735 1100 SUN MASAMUNE SAKE BREWERY 29 Cassola Place, Penrith Ph: 4732 2833 THE UNION RESTAURANT Union Lane, Penrith Ph: 4721 4501

ONLINE TAKEAWAY NOW AVAILABLE AT outbacksteakhouse.com.au

VISITOR INFORMATION Tourism Information for Penrith is now available at: www.penrithishere.com.au Telephone: 1300 736 836 (Monday to Friday 9am – 4.30pm) The information wall at Penrith Civic Centre is available Monday to Friday 8.30am – 4pm. The information wall at Penrith City Library is available Monday to Friday 9am – 8pm, Saturday 9am – 5pm and Sunday 10am – 5pm.

...will take you there! www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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 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,

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Woodford of the Woodford Academy and the Bulls Camp, now a pleasant picnic spot and leash free area, then we then reach Lawson, named after explorer William Lawson (1774-1850).

What to See & Do

Start at the Glenbrook Visitor Centre The walking track from John Whitton Memorial Place leads you to the Knapsack Viaduct. (Lapstone) Bluff Lookout overlooks the Glenbrook Gorge and Glenbrook Creek. Adjacent to Warrimoo Station is Ardill Park, a great resting place. Spend some time at the Norman Lindsay Gallery Museum garden and café for food for the soul and body. VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Great Western Hwy, Glenbrook Open Mon-Sat 8.30am to 4pm and 8.30am - 3.00pm Sun. closed Christmas Day Ph: 1300 653 408 www.bluemountainscitytourism.com.au

...will take you there!

Care The Norman Lindsay Quilters Caring Hearts Community Gallery & Museum The Quilters excelled themselves last 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

National Trust

Closed Christmas Day 14 Norman Lindsay Cres. Faulconbridge

www.normanlindsay.com.au 12 www.monthlyimag.com.au

month having been able to distribute patchwork quilts to Nepean, Hawkesbury Springwood and Blue Mountains hospitals for their palliative care wards, these colourful quilts bring care and support for people nearing the end of their lives, not only the physical symptoms such as pain, but also the emotional, spiritual and social needs of the patients and their carers. These senior ladies that make this group of dedicated patchworkers have been stitching their special kind of magic into quilts now for almost 12 years with the knowledge that they are

Polo International The Polo International is the most prestigious event on the Australian polo calendar attracting teams & players from all over the world. This year it’s Australia taking on the mighty Kiwis in a trans-Tasman test match! · Leave your suits & fascinators at home and join us in the beautiful grounds of Windsor Polo Club. · Don’t miss your chance to witness the spectacular sport of polo at the highest level. The event is perfect for client entertainment, social groups, work functions, hens parties, sporting clubs... or just getting-together with friends and heading out of town for an enjoyable day in the Hawkesbury · Marquees, picnic sites and reserved fieldside car parks of all sizes available…or just kick back beside the polo field with a picnic hamper! · Groups of 2 - 400 catered for, choose from all-inclusive or BYO... there are hospitality and ticket options to suit everyone. Tickets are available at www.thepolointernational.com.au

truly doing something they love to do, whilst bringing joy and comfort to those that receive them. As the demand of their quilts grow they are hoping that other quilters might be interested in many the occasional quilt for them. Donations of fabric and UFO’s are always welcomed. They are having their annual fundraising event on April 11-12th at The Arms of Australia Museum, GW Highway, Emu Plains 10am - 12pm with the cost of $5 to see the quilts. There will be a Trading table with handmade goods for sale, Book Stall, Devonshire Teas, Sausage Sizzle, Quilt Raffle and Live Music during the day. Info: Margaret 47352058

Wentworth Falls 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. When travelling from Bullaburra to Wentworth Falls you ascend Boddington Hill. At the top of the hill, turn left into Tableland Road then turn left into Queen Elizabeth Drive. Take the left hand fork at the end for a 10 km drive to one of the most remote and beautiful picnic grounds in the Blue Mountains, Ingar Picnic Ground. 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! Back on Tableland Road, a further quarter hour drive takes you to Sunset Lookout or McMahon’s Lookout providing views of Lake Burragorang. Along the Great Western Highway at the first set of traffic lights travelling west towards Katoomba, on the left hand side you will see the historic Grandview Hotel. Here you can turn right at the lights into the main street of Wentworth Falls. Along Station Street you will find many fine coffee

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

shops and a thriving community atmosphere. Continue over the railway bridge into Blaxland Road and turn left into Sinclair Crescent which will lead you through a corridor of trees to the beautiful, ‘must see’ Wentworth Falls Lake. The lake offers something for everyone including picnic and BBQ facilities, safe swimming, shelter and a children’s playground. Further North along Blaxland Road the golf enthusiast will find the 18 hole golf course of Wentworth Falls Country Club where you can experience a round of golf in the fresh clean air of Wentworth Falls. Further west along the Great Western Highway you will reach the next set of traffic lights. On the north side of the highway 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. The School of Arts is a popular venue for stalls and markets.

Yester Grange Estate Yester grange is the Blue Mountains premier venue for couples seeking a truly unique wedding reception. Nestled in 10 acres of totally private parkland and garden at the top of Wentworth Falls waterfall. The rolling expanse of green lawn reaches from the magnificent Victorian mansion, to touch the thousands of hectares of World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains Wilderness that lies beyond. The views are breathtaking and the atmosphere will leave your guests spellbound! Yester Grange is a truly unique property and no amount of words or photographs can ever do it justice. It is a venue which simply must be inspected to be believed. Inspections strictly by appointment only. Please phone to arrange a convenient time for us to show you around the property and to discuss menu selection and arrangements for your very special day. Ph: 4757 1110 events@yestergrange.com.au www.yestergrange.com.au

What to See & Do Enjoy the fabulous sunsets from the Conservation Hut. 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. Explore the delightful Village of Wentworth Falls with its shops and the Lake the other side of the Highway. 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. The natural wonders of Leura can be discovered via the many walks. A great place to start is Sublime Point Road. Here you will find one of the world’s most spectacular golf courses as well as the popular Fairmont Resort. Many events are held here. Trolley Tours can tell you about the walks. 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. You must not miss a visit to the multiaward-winning Josophan’s Chocolates – see if you are able to organise a tasting. They also have a shop down in Sydney. 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!

14 www.monthlyimag.com.au

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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. Leura Cascades along Cliff Drive is a

New Bygone Beautys tearooms Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms are delighted to announce that the new tearooms are now open to visitors. This marks the completion of the first stage of the major renovations. The next stage will involve the construction of the museum, a function room and a retail area specialising in tea, tea wares and a multitude of accessories, gifts and souvenirs. For prosperity and safety, many of the teapots have been packed away as they are worthy of protecting. A few

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. 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.

hundred teapots have already made their return. The new look Bygone Beautys is expected to be completed in the first half of 2015. Take advantage of 20% off all stock, including packaged tea and infusions, tea wares, crystal and glassware, tableware, collectables, jewellery, lamps, vases, clothing, gifts and more. As well as their house speciality of Devonshire Tea, Bygone Beautys also offer an indulgent Traditional High Tea. Visitors are welcome to visit the new tearooms and see the many transformations taking place.

HAY

AV ACACIA AV K AV MYALL

HERBE

Blue Mountains National Park

RD ST GEO RGES

ST AND REW

CHAMBER S ST

Leura Golf Course

NT MO IR FA

Peppers Fairmont Resort

Blue Mountains National Park

Leura Golf Course

GLADS TO NE

JAMIESO

WATKI NS

HESTER RD

Bowling Club

RO AD

CLIFF VIE W

Golf Links Lookout

CLI

Gordon Falls Lookout

RUSSE LL

ROAD

WOODFOR

CONISTO N RD

ADES

EVERGL

LONE PI NE AV

AL BALMOR

PDE

International Hotel Management School

WENTW ORTH A V

THE LIN KS

VALE ST

HESTER PL

FITZROY

BLAXLAND

HOLME S ST

Everglades Gardens

Gordon Falls

LEURA

NORTHC OTE

A Cliff Wal k

Gordon Falls Reserve

POPLAR

KURRAW ANG

EASTE

MORVE N

CRAIGEN

KENSETT

BENJAMIN

VICTORIA

LACHL

ALBERT

SPENC ER

ST BLACKHEAT H

RD ry

OL YM PIA

SALSBUR Y AV

MOU ESP

LAMBERT P L

HARTLE AV

TENNYSON

L MAL

GROSE

UR A

WASCOE

ABBEY

ISABEL PACKER ST

??? School

TT S CO

COOK

COUSINS L A

LEUR

CLIFF

JERSEY

n nce H e Pri

PD E

MALL

MURRAY ST JERSEY

BEATTIE ST

E AV

A ILW Y RA

HIGH WAY

Fbr.

AT AV

R PA NT H A Y RD WILLO W

Leura Railway Stn

WAY RAIL

E GR

HIGHWAY

Bridal Veil View Lookout

Email: books@megalongbooks.com.au Web: www.megalongbooks.com.au FF

Leura Public School

ERN ST WE

C L I FF

GORDO

183 The Mall, Leura (02) 4784 1302

M OU

CRAIGE ND

MALVERN

Leura CH House BRIT AIN

QUEENS AV

MEGALO NG

MURRAY S T

PD E

WEST ERN

RA IL WA Y

WINSTON ST

LEURA M A LL UR CH I VICTORY

ST L IN K R D

THE MALL

LOCAL

GROSE

EAS

T VI E

GR EA T

HIGHLA ND

ST WENTWOR TH ST

MOUNT

KIN

E PD

Blue Mountains Trolley Tours operates an hourly hop on and hop off service 7 days a week that takes you to 29 GREAT ATTRACTIONS located in KATOOMBA and LEURA, allowing you to experience the best of what this fabulous world heritage area has to offer in a fun and informative way. You can purchase your $25 Hop On and Hop Off All Day Pass from the Trolley Shoppe located at 76 Main Street, Katoomba, Opposite the Pedestrian Crossing at Katoomba Railway Station, or directly from the Trolley Driver at any stop. You can book a Day Tour from Sydney, save when you book your tickets online, book bushwalks through us, even like us on Facebook at Trolley Tours, Katoomba.

Blue Mountains Trolley Tours

TON

GALS

HO EC

General and Children’s Bookshop Blue Mountains History, Maps and Guidebooks

WEST ST

DVDs and Classical Music CDs

P OINT

CLIFF

INT PO

WILLOU G HB Y RD

ME BLI

Orders Taken Open 7 days

The best books in the mountains!

Thank you from Leura Gardens

Save the date October 3 - 11, 2015

If you are enjoying your winter stay, make sure you come back and “Experience the Magic of Spring in the Mountains”

leuragardensfestival.com.au

The Leura Gardens Festival would like to thank all those who came to the festival last year, our 50th anniversary, and helped raise a record amount for our local hospital. This year’s festival will take place from Saturday, October 3 to Sunday, October 11. Ten beautiful gardens will be on show, including two new to the festival and two coming back after a break, with associated events including our Music Festival, Art Show, and the usual wonderful bargains at our plant sales centre. For further information, please visit www.leuragardensfestival.com.au or phone 0431 095 279. www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

16 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Gosford

Treat her to a 3 course luncheon including a welcome glass of sparkling on arrival, flower and chocolates. Accompanied by the melodies of resident pianist Alan Johnson. All served with magnificent views of the Jamison Valley.

Call us to make bookings for Mothers Day Ask about our gift vouchers

To book a table call 02 4782 2155 www.mountainheritage.com.au Corner of Apex & Lovel Streets Katoomba

♦ Spectacular valley views ♦ Central yet secluded location just five minutes stroll to town centre ♦ Award winning 4½ Star accommodation ♦ Guest rooms with choice of bath & shower or spa bath, remote control full air conditioning & windows which open for fresh mountain air. Many rooms with views, many with real flame fireplaces ♦ Spectacular valley views ♦ Central yet secluded location just five ♦ Licensed a la carte restaurant and cocktail bar minutes stroll to town centre ♦ Award winning 4½ Star accommodation ♦ Guest lounge areas with open fireplaces ♦ Exercise room ♦ Guest rooms with choice of bath & shower or spa bath, remote ♦ Billiards ♦ Garden terraces ♦ Day spa and beauty treatment centre control full air conditioning & windows which open for fresh mountain air. Many rooms with views, many with real flame fireplaces ♦ Licensed a la carte restaurant and cocktail bar ♦ Guest lounge areas with open fireplaces ♦ Exercise room

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

♦ Billiards ♦ Garden terraces ♦ Day spa and beauty treatment centre

Katoomba

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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. 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

Journeys

Drawing from the Blue Mountains

John Caldwell 4 April – 24 May 2015 This exhibition traces the journeys of highly renowned Australian artist John Caldwell through the Australian landscape, featuring works from the last 25 years of Caldwell’s career. Caldwell’s experiences, and memories of places he has visited and drawn inspiration from, have left marks in his many works, which have been painted in the studio after sketching in the landscape. A Blue Mountains Cultural Centre Exhibition. John Caldwell will be hosting a 2 Day Painting Workshop on Saturday 16 May and Saturday 23 May 2015. For more information about the workshop contact BMCC

DAVID MIDDLEBROOK The Valley of the Grose [detail] 2015, ink on paper, 150 x 560 cm

18 www.monthlyimag.com.au

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, 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

David Middlebrook 28 March – 10 May 2015 This Exposé exhibit features large scale multiple panel works with images that were drawn from The Blue Mountains National Park, Lake Lyell and The Gardens of Stone. Middlebrook, who is known for his Australian desert landscape paintings, in this exhibition draws the landscape that he lives in. Within this body of work he is trying to decipher the Blue Mountains landscape, seeing it anew, and relating it to his obsession with the unobtainable horizon. Middlebrook is a landscape painter and drawer that through his creative practice explores the concepts of isolation, alienation and the artist as explorer. A Blue Mountains Cultural Centre Exposé Program Exhibition. Join David Middlebrook's 6 Week Drawing Course. For dates and information on how to book contact BMCC

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. Visit the renovated Scenic World VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Echo Point Rd, Katoomba Open 9am - 5pm daily (Closed Christmas day) Phone: 1300 653 408 www.bluemountainscitytourism.com.au

...will take you there!

Lost Bear Gallery A fearsome predator or simply lost… A larger-than-life sized polar bear is the proud guardian at the appropriately named Lost Bear Gallery. Is he searching for a colder climate? Has global warming taken its toll? What inspired acclaimed artist Ian Swift to create this arresting sculpture? Regardless, waiting inside is a gallery experience where the inherent beauty of the building’s architecture is matched only by the high calibre of works on display. This gallery oozes with the charm of a bygone era. Polished kauri floorboards, art nouveau leadlight windows, ten foot ceilings, wide architraves and old fireplaces are just some of the

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

ng the Great Divide: Picturing the Great Divide: The Blue BLUE Into MOUNTAINS MOUNTAINS Joint ticket admission for entryInto to ADMISSION The from Australia’s CITY ART GALLERY WORLD HERITAGE UE MOUNTAINS BLUE MOUNTAINS VisionsBLUE from Australia’s ADMISSION both the Blue Mountains World INTERPRETIVE CENTRE BLUE MOUNTAINS TYBLUE ART MOUNTAINS GALLERY WORLD HERITAGE ADMISSION In 2000 the Greater Blue Mountains Entry to the Cultural Centre Shop, In 2000 the Gr Heritage Interpretive Centre and Picturing the Great Divide: BLUE MOUNTAINS BLUE MOUNTAINS ountains CITY ART GALLERY WORLD HERITAGE ADMISSION Blue Mountains INTERPRETIVE CENTRE BLUE MOUNTAINS Entry toand the Culturalplatform Centre Shop, Café, viewing is FREE. area was added to the UNESCO World area Into The Blue CITY ART GALLERY WORLD HERITAGE Blue Mountains City Art Gallery is:was added INTERPRETIVE CENTRE Andrew Merry Valley of the Grose 2011, archival pigment print, 56 x 84 cm. Andrew Merry Valley of the Grose 2011, archival pigment print, 56 x 84 cm. Andrew Merry Valley of the Grose 2011, archival pigment print, 56 x 84 cm.

Entry to the CulturalAndrew Centre S Mer Café, and viewing platform is

CITY ART GALLERY ticket admission for ent BLUE MOUNTAINS BLUE MOUNTAINS Entry to the Cultural CentreJoint cturing thethe Great Divide: Visions from Café, and viewing platform isShop, FREE. Heritage ListWo in Heritage ListAustralia’s in recognition ofCENTRE the INTERPRETIVE both the Blue Mountains 17ART November 2012 •– 3 February 2013 erPicturing 2012 – 3 February 2013 Divide: CITY GALLERY WORLD HERITAGE Great Adults – $5 platform Café, andMountains viewing is FREE. Into The Blue In 2000 the Greater Blue Heritage Interpretive Centre Joint ticket admission for entry to Picturing the Great Divide: exceptional dive INTERPRETIVE CENT Picturing the Great Divide: Blue exceptional Mountains diversity and integrity of area its was added•Joint Into The Blue sions from Australia’s Concession – $3 for to theticket UNESCO World admission entry to Blue Mountains City Art Gal Picturing the Great Divide: both the Blue Mountains World Visions Australia’s Picturing the Great eucalypt forest The inaugural exhibition theDivide: Blue Mountains City Into The Blue Into the eucalypt forest Heritage Listfor in•Joint recognition ofadmission the ticket for entry toInto xhibition for thefrom Blue Mountains City 17 November – the 3communities. February both the Blue Mountains World •Free Adults – $5The Blue Visions from Australia’s Children under 16 – In2012 2000 Greater 2013 Blue Mountains Visions from Australia’s Visions from Australia’s Into The Blue Heritage Interpretive Centre and Blue takes audi exceptional diversity and integrity of its Art Gallery surveys the powerful impact the Blue ue Mountains In 2000 the Greater Blue Mountains both the Blue Mountains World • Concession – $3 audiences anUNESCO interactive Blue takes Heritage Interpretive Centre and Visions from Australia’s eys the powerful impact the Blue Blue Mountains area was added toon the World eucalypt forest Blue communities. Into the City Art Gallery is: BlueMountains Mountains

Andrew M

BLUE MOUNTAINS CITY ART GALLERY

BLUE MOUNTAINS WORLD HERITAGE INTERPRETIVE CEN

Blue Mountains area was added toMountains the UNESCO World • Children 16 – Free region has had Heritage on the cultural life ofArt theGallery Interpretive Centre andHeritage Blue Mountains City is: under journey exploring the natural, cultural and ListBlue in recognition of th on has had on2012 the cultural life of the2013 In 2000 Mounta 17 November February 2013 the Greater Heritage List inBlue of takes audiences on an2012 Blue Art Gallery surveys the powerful impact thethe Blue November – 3–February area was added to UNESCO World • Adults Adults –interactive $5– 3City Mountains Heritage List inrecognition recognition of the the historical landsc exceptional diversity and integrit nation from early settlement to the present day. The Blue Mountains Art Gallery is: 17 November 2012 3 February 2013 • – $5 area was added to the UNESCO W 17 November 2012 – 3 February 2013 journey exploring the natural, cultural and Mountains regionexceptional has had on the cultural life of the eucalypt forest communities. Int historical landscapes of this unique area The inaugural exhibition for the Blue Mountains City diversity and integrity of its ly 17 settlement to the present day. The Heritage Listdiversity in recognition of the of its100 works Concession $3 exceptional and integrity November 2012 – 3 Februarynation 2013 to discover the • • Gallery Adults – the $5 exhibition features byofsurveys 60 of Australia’s takes audiences on inter Blue Art powerful impact the Blue Concession –– $3 historical landscapes this unique area Heritage List in recognition ofan the from early eucalypt settlementforest to the 17 present day. The November 2012 – 3 February 2013 communities. Into the journey exploring the natural, cu Mountains region has under had on the cultural of the to discover the by richness and wonders of inaugural exhibition Blue Mountains CityCity exceptional diversity and integrity of its res 100 works by for 60 the of eucalypt Into to the •The Children 16 –lifeday. Free The inaugural exhibition forAustralia’s the Blue Mountains •richness Concession – Martens, $3 the landscapes Blue Mount discover the and wonders Children under – Free most celebrated artists including Conrad inaugural exhibition for the Mountains City exhibition features 100 works forest 60 ofcommunities. Australia’s exceptional diversity and integrity historical of this uniq nation from early settlement to16 theof present The Blue Blue takes audiences on an interactive Into the theBlue Mountains eucalypt forest communities. Gallery surveys the powerful impact the Blue discover the richness and wo The inaugural exhibition for the Blue Mountains City exhibition featuresHeritage 100 works by 60 of Australia’s takes audiences on an interactive Blue the Blue Mountains World Heritage area. World area. Art Gallery surveys the powerful impact the Blue d artists including Conrad Martens, • Children under 16 – Free most celebrated artists including Conrad Martens, Art Gallery surveys the powerful impact the Blue Into eucalypt forestto communities. The inaugural exhibition for and the Blue Mountains City Margaret Preston Brett the Blue Mountains World Herit mostWhiteley. celebrated artists including Conrad Martens, Blue takes audiences onsurveys an interactive exploring cultural and impact Art Gallery surveys theon powerful ntains region has had the lifethe of the Margaret and Brett Whiteley. journey exploring thenatural, natural, cultural and Mountains region has had on cultural theimpact cultural lifeBlue of thePrestonjourney Margaret Brett Whiteley. Mountains region hasBlue had takes on theaudiences cultural life onofanthe intera Art the Gallery the powerful thePreston Blueand ton and Brett Whiteley.

In 2000 the Greater Blue Moun area was added to the UNESCO

The inaugural exhibition for thethe BlueGreater Mountains CityMountains In 2000 Blue

journey explorin

CLIFF

Blue Mountains

journey exploring theof natural, cultural andthe cultural has had the cultural lifeday. of the historical landscapes this area historical landscapes ofregion this unique unique area nation early settlement the present day. Thecultu onMountains from early settlement toon the present day. The journey to exploring the natural, nation fromregion early settlement to the present The Mountains has had on lifefrom of the Open 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm Sat & Sun historical landscapes of and this area exhibition features works by 60 of Australia’s nation from early tobythe present day.10am The – to historical landscapes uniqu to discover the richness and wonders of discover the richness wonders of& from early settlement to Sun the present day. The • 30100 exhibition features 100 works 60Australia’s of Australia’s bition features 100settlement works by 60 of Open 10am 5pm Monday –holidays Friday, 10am 4pm Satof this & Sun Open 5pm Monday –nation Friday, 10am –unique 4pm–Sat Closed public Parke Street, – Katoomba most celebrated artists including Conrad Martens, to discover the richness and wonders of by 60 of to discover the richness and wond exhibition features 100 works Australia’s exhibition features 100 works by 60 ofMartens, Australia’s the Blue Mountains World Heritage area. most artists including Conrad Martens, the Blue World Heritage area. artists including Conrad Closed public holidays • Mountains 30 Parke Street, Katoomba bmculturalcentre.com –t celebrated 5pmcelebrated Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm Sat & Sun Closed public holidays • 30 Parke Street, Katoomba Margaret Preston andthe Brett BlueWhiteley. Mountains World Heritag most celebrated artists including Martens, the Blue Mountains World Heritage area. Conrad most celebrated including Conrad Martens, Margaret Preston and Brett Whiteley. garet Preston andartists Brett Whiteley.

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

bmculturalcentre.com.au

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)

architectural features you’ll discover. Twelve unique exhibition spaces, together with an outdoor sculpture garden are home to an extensive art collection. But perhaps of most surprise is the way an eclectic mix of quality modern and decorative fine art has been seamlessly curated within this elegantly refurbished property. Pictured here is a superb new oil painting by Warwick Fuller. Come and discover Lost Bear Gallery, a leading destination for contemporary art in the Blue Mountains. Open daily from 10-5 at 98 Lurline Street, Katoomba. The gallery can be contacted on 4782 1220 or visit lostbeargallery.com.au

Lakeside Light, Angler's Reach 100cm x 120cm oil on canvas by Warwick Fuller

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Blackheath/Mt Victoria Recent developments in these areas establish this as a centre with attractions to rival those that have made Leura to Katoomba so renowned. Reopening of the Hydro Majestic in November 2014 following upgrades, redevelopment of Redleaf Resort, the opening of Parklands and many other accommodation improvements in the area are attracting new visitors. Combined with more places to eat, galleries and a wide variety of new businesses, we now have a newly evolving centre, drawing locals and visitors into a thriving new cosmopolitan area to spend time; to return to, seeking new experiences.

Blackheath 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.

20 www.monthlyimag.com.au

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Mt Victoria 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

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

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

The Victory Theatre, a site of great importance. The Victory Theatre Antique Centre is not only a haven of great food and hidden treasure but a site of historic and cultural significance. Located in Blackheath, west of Sydney, the centre was built by architects Hassel and Stockham in 1915. Its original use was as a cinema for local residents, acting as a source of recreation and entertainment for 45 years. In the 1900’s cinemas were erected in any space that could fit numerous amounts of chairs and people. As

Jenny Kee in the 90’s. It is one of three original historic buildings in the town, built alongside the Gardner’s Inn and the Ivanhoe Hotel. When entering the building, two large doors open to the front cafe. Past the cafe lays the fabulous antique centre which houses 51 dealers who source a great assortment of antique furniture, fine jewellery, porcelain and china, Australiana, silver and vintage clothing. The Victory Theatre is commended as a place of “Aesthetic, historic and social value for past, present and future

movie projectors and screens were transportable, cinemas began to pop up throughout numerous country towns. During this period in Australia, the majority of cinemas were built in a highly decorative manner. Classic examples of this can be seen in the exteriors of Melbourne cinemas with their elaborate facades, such as the Britannia and Majestic of Melbourne. Sydney cinemas in country regions were very simplistic and built only for their purpose, as is evident in the shedlike appearance of the Victory Theatre. In the 1960’s The Victory Theatre closed down due to declining attendance. In 1977 it was leased out as a junk yard, later transforming into the Victory Theatre Antique Centre, which still operates successfully today. The Victory Theatre stands out from its neighboring shops due to its sheer size as well as the exterior mural, which was painted by renowned local artist

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

Victory Theatre Antique Centre 17-19 Govetts Leap Road Blackheath Ph: (02) 4787 6002 Email: victorytheatre@bigpond.com

generations”. When travelling up to the Blue Mountains, stop by to have a coffee or lunch, browse through the amazing space and visit the Victory’s eclectic mix of dealers and a large assortment of goods. You must put it on your list of things to see when next travelling through the Blue Mountains. Jana Byrne The Burra Charter: The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of Cultural Significance 1999. As it is changing a new Exhibition Space has opened upstairs for local artists to sell their art. Do come and enjoy our new exhibitions! Who knows what new talent or treasure you may discover or fall in love with?

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Hartley & Surrounds 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. Hartley is found situated at the bottom of Victoria Pass, on the Great Western Highway in the valley between Mount Victoria and Lithgow. Hartley areas disperse widely on both sides of the Highway.

Walking on the Wild Side IMAG Zoo COMPE TITION WINNERs! Congratulations !!!

Family pass to Ta ronga Western Plains Zoo has be en won by C Alderson, Cam bridge Park NSW .

Under 4 years is free. 4 – 15 years is a child and above that are adults.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo is located in Dubbo in Central New South Wales. The Zoo is open every day from 9 - 4 For more information visit www.taronga.org.au or contact 6881 1400.

22 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Midas Touch High Tea is a magical pleasure where you experience the elegance and decadence of the splendour of tea. Baby Showers offer the new mum a restful afternoon enjoying the views and tastes of the Midas Touch. Lot 13, Carrol Drive. Hartley 2790 Ph (02) 6355 2352

Hartley Saddlery Be sure to call in to Hartley Saddlery for wine tastings, to order your wines and to have a chat. They have a range of interesting gift ideas for people and animals in store and online and are always happy to order for you too. Check out details on Facebook.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

What to See & Do Visit the area’s renowned Buildings such as the Comet Inn (now a Guest House, B & B with restaurant) and Collit's Inn in Hartley Vale, Rosedale in Little Hartley (now Hartley Valley Holiday Farm) and the old Harp of Erin, Williams Store and Little Hartley Post Office, classified in the National Trust Register and on the National Heritage Commission data base. Many wonderful walks including Lockyers Road Walking Track, one of the most historic walking tracks in the Blue Mountains. The track is one of the original 'roads' used to descend into Hartley Vale. Hand built by convicts.

Win tickets to the Sydney Royal Easter Show! The Sydney Royal Easter Show held at Olympic Park is Australia’s largest annual event, attracting close to 900,000 people each year. It is a celebration of Australian culture, from our rural traditions to our modern day lifestyles, providing unique experiences for everyone. This year I have 10 adult Showlink tickets to give away to The Show. To win one or two adult tickets, go to Blue Mountains iMag page on Facebook, like the page and tell me why you should win one or two tickets to The Show. Each year the country and city join together to enjoy agricultural competitions, animal experiences, entertainment, carnival fun, shopping, wine, food, fashion and much more. The Show was first held in 1823 and is run by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS), a not-for-profit organisation that promotes and rewards agricultural excellence. Revenue generated through the Show allows the RAS to invest in

agricultural programs, competitions, education, youth and rural NSW. Each year the RAS invests nearly $7 million in activities designed to promote agricultural excellence and keep our rural communities strong. To read more about how the Show supports agricultural development and rural communities visit the Giving Back page on the RAS website. Showgoers can head to www. eastershow.com.au to access more information. The Show runs from 26 March to 8 April 2015.

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 april 2015.indd 1

Lithgow Tourism 4/03/15 3:01 PM

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Lithgow Lithgow is renowned as a learning City offering two Universities; a glorious valley set amidst mountain splendour. Lithgow is also rich in tradition and culture with diverse ecosystems. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal tradition, step back in time to an era where steam dominated transport

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au and when industry was our backbone Discover Lithgow’s accessible wilderness. With tranquil vistas and serene landscapes, the environment is 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 walks and bike tracks galore. 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, 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.

Historic Governor Macquarie Event Sunday 26 April 2015 The Hartley District Progress Association, in conjunction with the Macquarie Society, will commemorate Governor Macquarie’s visit and his holding of the first Christian service performed west of the Blue Mountains. The event will be held in Butler’s paddock, overlooking Cox’s Road on which the Macquaries made their way to Bathurst, the valley campsite where this first service was held and Mt Blaxland, the end point of Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth’s 1813 crossing. Bookings essential! Call Lithgow Visitors Information Centre Events Booking Service to book your attendance 1300 760 276 From 11.00am, entry by Gold coin donation. Butler’s Paddock, Liddleton Station, Jenolan Caves Road, Hartley Contact: 1300 760 276

24 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Wallerawang/Portland 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 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

Award Winning Fine Wool Country

* Located 35km to Bathurst CBD * 245 Acres - 99 Hectares * Semi-permanent Oakey Creek * 3 paddocks * Improved and native pastures * Power to boundary of the property * Telephone running through the property * Dwelling entitlement with excellent building sites * Main road frontage (sealed road) * Good stands of shelter timber and Kurrajong trees * Fencing is in good condition * Ideal lifestyle property or hobby farm.

The Residential, Rural and Livestock Specialists Servicing the Central West Ph: 02 6355 5125 3 Wolgan Street (PO BOX 37) Portland NSW 2847 Email: sales@bandl.com.au www.bandl.com.au

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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.

What to see & Do 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

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

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

The signs of Yesteryear Portland a small town 2.5 hours drive from Sydney offers a step back in time with its original shop fronts still displaying working businesses including Gift shops, Cafes, Clubs Pubs and even an old fashioned theatre! In 2001 a group of sign writers known as the Letterheads met in Portland to recreate vintage advertising signs from 1895 to 1945 on the walls of local buildings throughout Portland. This has become a popular attraction to locals and visitors. In 2011 to celebrate 10 years the sign writers returned to add to the collection. This has now become an annual event. On the last weekend in October you will find Signs of Yesteryear being painted on Shop walls and buildings around Portland. The advertising signs can be seen from the street and are visible every day of the year. This is a great opportunity for photographers to capture the art work of sign writers and muralists reproducing advertising art works.

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.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Oberon - Bathurst 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. 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

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, including parts of Mayfield 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 pick only edible varieties – the Oberon Visitor Information Centre has brochures on these' Go horse riding through the magically beautiful landscape

SWIMMING POOL

INdOOr TENNIS COUrT

SCOTIA AVENUE

CUNYNGHAME STREET

DART

STREET ST

pi n e h cu

p or

STREET

SYDNEY

RALEIGH

NATIONAL BANK

ROSS

FLEMMING

GOULBURN

OBERON

LOWES MT RD

CARRINGTON AVENUE

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

JENOLAN CARAVAN PARK

...will take you there!

BATHURST

ill

m.au

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

26 www.monthlyimag.com.au

www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au Photo: Red Moon Creative

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au Explore the wild places by 4WD Evans Crown Nature Reserve and Kanangra Walls offer both relaxing and challenging walks 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!

Bathurst, Celebrating its Bicentenary in 2015 When Governor Lachlan Macquarie raised the Union Jack on the banks of the Macquarie River in 1815 and proclaimed the town site of Bathurst, it also marked the opening up of inland Australia. 200 years ago, the explorers crossed the rugged sandstone curtain of the Blue Mountains and saw what was to become the gateway to inland Australia. The spectacular beauty of the Bathurst Plains is now the backdrop for a vibrant, sophisticated regional city. This is a journey that many travellers follow today, but do it with many more creature comforts, great food, wine and cultural experiences. The bicentenary is a European milestone and in 2015, Bathurst is re-telling this shared history with the Wiradjuri people – who watched on from afar in 1815. A possum skin cloak healing workshop was run by Bathurst Regional Art Gallery in October 2014 in conjunction with the Wiradjuri Elders and is symbolic of the new history that will be created from 2015. An extensive calendar of events and activities throughout the year will provide a great opportunity for new visitors to have a Bathurst experience and for those who think they know what Bathurst has to offer to take a fresh look at one of Australia’s fastest growing regional cities. Accommodating more than 30,000 campers every year for the great race at Mount Panorama, Bathurst is a town that welcomes travellers and knows how to look after them. The region enjoys four distinct and beautiful seasons but autumn is the real highlight when the tree lined streets take on a colourful glow. March heralds the beginning of the annual celebration of history, heritage and culture that is Autumn Colours. This year will take on an extra special feel for the bicentenary year with Heritage Week taking place from 2-10 May featuring outdoor community art installations, historical re-enactments, colonial fair and a stunning building illumination and street festival. Details of all the events and activities can be found in Autumn Colours 2015 available from Bathurst Visitor Information Centre. Call 1800 68 1000 for a free copy or view online at vistibathurst.com.au There’s so much happening in Bathurst in 2015 making it a great time to plan a trip. An ever growing calendar of events for the whole year can be found at bathurst200. com.au so take a look and see how you can explore and discover our wonderful region.

Bathurst Region – Full of life and opposite that the magnificent War Memorial Carillon is flanked by the Evans Memorial and the Boer War Memorial.

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 selfdriving 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

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. Bathurst District Historical Museum and the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery are full of treasures.

...will take you there!

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Celebrate Autumn in your Garden at TomahROMA Autumn Food and Wine Fair Our biggest autumn event is the TomahROMA autumn food and wine fair, this year featuring the International Back to Back Wool Challenge and Bilpin Apple Pie Bake-Off. On Saturday 2 May the Garden will be transformed as lovers of local food, wine and crafts enjoy regional produce, spectacular views and vivid autumn colours at TomahROMA autumn food and wine fair. This year’s fair will also stage the International Back To Back Wool Challenge and the Apple Pie Bake-Off: Watch the team shear a sheep, spin the wool and knit a jumper in under eight hours whilst you enjoy an incredible selection of locally made apple pies entered into the hotly contested bake-off! Donations to cancer research.

Autumn flowers 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 lingers, whilst the marvelous orange through to deep maroon coloring of the Japanese Maples is truly spectacular. Deep into May, the autumn colour of deciduous trees can still be found as many of the evergreen conifers shift colour in response to the lowering temperatures. Botanists Way Discovery Centre Be sure to visit the newly opened Botanists Way Discovery Centre to find out about the history of the northern Blue Mountains and why this area was given World Heritage status. Walk in the shoes of the botanists that searched for a route west (now the Bells Line of Road) 200 years ago as they searched for rare plants and a route to the west and experience the majesty of the Blue Mountains canyons. Free entry. Other autumn events: The Blue Mountains: Grandeur & Intimacy an exhibition by Ian Brown 7 Mar to 27 Apr 2015 Ian Brown has spent decades

Dawn pagoda country Ian Brown

photographing the beauty of the Blue Mountains - from the tourist tracks and lookouts to the most remote wilderness. This exhibition reveals a selection of his work showing dramatic dawns and evening light over the vast valleys, misty forests, characterful trees, streams and stones. The collection is a powerful affirmation of the magnificence and value of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Date: Saturday 7 March - Monday 27 April 2015 Time: 9.30am - 5pm daily Cost: Free Where: Visitor Centre, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah Enquiries: 4567 3000 All works available to purchase Kid’s Story Time 10 Apr 2015 A delightful live reading of popular children’s books for kids. Featuring live action, audience participation and sound effects, this is excellent holiday entertainment fun for all the family. Presented by Entertainment Blue Mountains Date: Friday 10 April 2015 Time: 10am-11.30am OR 1pm-2.30pm Cost: $25.00 Where: Waratah Education Centre, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Bookings essential: 9231 8182 or by email Each session includes a 30-40 minute interactive story ‘performance’ by Entertainment Blue Mountains followed by the self-guided Garden adventure quest. Bring a picnic and make a day of it!

THE JUNGLE LODGE

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN award winning cool climate Garden • beautiful flowering plants in all seasons • inspiring tours • plant themed festivals • gorgeous weddings • Tomah Gardens Restaurant (one hat) Garden Open Mon to Fri 9 am – 5.30 pm Weekends & public holidays 9.30 am – 5.30 pm Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah. T: 4567 3000 FREE ENTRY

28 www.monthlyimag.com.au

the perfect setting for your mountain escape • panoramic views • peaceful • sleeps 10

www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/tomah

Molong

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

100 Mile Dinner in Molong 13 April 2014 The F.O.O.D Week committee and the people of Molong welcome guests for the third year to the iconic 100 mile dinner, under the stars on the Village Green in Molong. Our regular towns, Orange, Bathurst, Molong, Mudgee and Cowra will showcase the food and wine from their region. Dancing on the Green encouraged! Bus Depart Orange Civic Theatre Time: 6pm-6.30pm Price $105 pp (bus $20 extra) Enquiries Kerry Connolly 0427 668 800 The 100 Mile Diet came into being approximately 9 years ago when an environmentally friendly Canadian couple decided that for one year, they would only eat and drink food (and beverage) from what they could source “locally” – literally from within 100 Miles of where they lived. The book was called “The 100 Mile Diet” and was a huge success, and their idea has grown into an internationally recognised concept – with 100 Mile Diet activities all over the world. The Canadian couple were concerned with “food miles” – the environmental cost of growing and transporting food from thousands of miles away. The concept has resonated with many leading chefs, and it could be said that the “kitchen garden” movement that many high profile chefs are championing has stemmed from the 100 Mile Diet ideals. For the Canadian couple it meant foregoing coffee for a year – a very hard thing to do without for many people!!

However the 100 Mile Diet dovetails very nicely with FOOD Week’s ideals – promoting and sourcing local produce. FOOD Week’s charter area is the 3 LGA’s of Blayney, Cabonne & Orange – the 100 Mile area centered at Orange, expands in a 160km (or 100 Miles) radius including Mudgee, Lithgow, Dubbo [just], Cowra, Forbes and Parkes, Young and all small towns in between. This large area is in fact some of the best farming land in NSW – and produces such a wide range of food that if we were to follow the 100 Mile Diet strictly, our diet would be very varied – and would probably please most dieticians. The area also includes some of the best wine produced in NSW – how lucky for us!!

So for one night during FOOD Week, we break with our charter area and gather together like minded chefs from within our 100 Mile circle to celebrate the wonderful produce – and people. This year the towns represented are Orange, Bathurst, Cowra, Mudgee and Molong. The historic town of Molong nestled in the hills of the Macquarie Ranges is home to around 2000 people. The progressive village is located on the Molong Creek, centred in a rich farming district that produces wheat, fruit, wine, sheep, wool and cattle. The wide main street is National Trust-classified with many buildings dating back to the early 1800s. Travellers love to stopover to view the historic buildings, meander the wide streets, visit the museums, art gallery, cafes and experience the relaxed lifestyle. Molong offers a variety of accommodation styles, comfortable B&Bs, a renovated motel, a caravan park where you can stay to explore the tempting food and wine of Cabonne Country. Visit the many boutique cellar doors to enjoy award winning wines, some local produce, vineyard views and the natural country side. VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Molong Visitor Information Centre at the Yarn Market Bank Street Molong Phone: 6366 8260

...will take you there!

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Orange

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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. Orange is surrounded by areas rich in diversity including Blayney and Molong in Cabonne country on the way to Dubbo. There is so much to explore and enjoy in these regions!

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.

What to See & Do 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… Orange Visitor Information Centre 9 - 5 everyday except Christmas Day Corner Byng St & Lords Pl Orange NSW Art Gallery space Phone: 02 6393 8226 - 1800 069 466 E: tourism@orange.nsw.gov.au www.visitorange.com.au

...will take you there!

Hot new styles in store! New Seasons Vigorella, RTM, Threads & Clarity and plenty of other gorgeous brands. Lots of natural fibres! Handbags, Jewellery, shoes, and gifts from around the globe, plus so much more. We also run Workshops and Events – Ask in store, Call 63655437 or Like us on Facebook to find out more! www.2fatladies.com.au Mitchell Highway, Lucknow 2800 Ph: 6365 5437 30 www.monthlyimag.com.au

What’s on at 2 Fat Ladies April 2015 Bookings essential call on 63655437 Mineral Makeup Masterclass: Sat 11th April 1.30pm - $25* Discover the tricks of flawless makeup using 100% Natural Mineral Makeup. Learn the secret to perfect skin and how to highlight your best features with our complete beauty routine that is quick and easy and will have you looking amazing every day as well as for those special events. Bookings essential *Price includes 2 Natural Makeup Brushes for you to keep. Travel Packing Workshop: Sat 18th April 1.30pm - $12 Discover the tricks of packing light! Can you imagine going overseas with only take on luggage?? This workshop will teach you how you can not only think about this….but achieve it!! Bookings essential. 2 Fat Ladies Relaunch Weekend: Sat 18th & Sun 19th April Come along to the official grand relaunch of 2 Fat Ladies. Introducing: 2 Fat Ladies Fashion – The famous shop you know and love only bigger and better. We have fabulous new autumn and winter fashion and accessories in store and now stock a gorgeous range of baby and toddler items.

Molly’s Lollies @ Lucknow – Stocking unique and old fashioned lollies 2 Fat Ladies Café – Awesome Fish River Roasters coffee! Exciting new menu and fantastic new takeaway bar.

Busy but Fun at Bissys With our Zero Mile Diet well and truly into full growth, baking, stewing and pickling are now become a familiar weekly event. What’s better than that is that you get to eat the food directly from our gardens. The interior of our café has now been painted with a very different style but not giving away too much because we don’t want to spoil the surprise. Our International connections are growing after a visit to Tiger Hill Permaculture in Tasmania. Wow this place is amazing and we felt privileged to be invited. They are providing permaculture course in the very near future and the growth will continue. Our property at Cargo is also undergoing changes with the renovations on the old red rattler well underway. Watch this space because it will be available for visitors soon. Stay tuned more information coming your way soon! Follow the journey on Facebook. Red Oak offer superb weddings and functions amongst the cool climate vineyard. Visit the Café for coffee, drinks and great local food

Cafe

Throw your Business card in our glass jar to go into the draw for a $20 platter!

https://www.facebook.com/Bissys

www.facebook.com/Gymbarooorange

AFFORDABLE ELEGANCE WITH COUNTRY STYLE Panoramic views Country setting Licensed bar Attention to detail Personalised packages Seats 20 - 400 guests Locally sourced menu Accommodation on site www.theredoak.com.au info@theredoak.com.au 0499 150 065

Find us on facebook

www.facebook.com/FipasWorld

88 Warrendine St Orange www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

'Gypsy Dreadnought' This year’s Lithgow District Ironfest will be held at the Lithgow Showground over the Anzac long weekend of April 18 – 19 and will be one of this nation’s biggest ever dress-up parties. Titled ‘Gypsy Dreadnought’, the 16th annual Ironfest is focussed on the 20th Century. Well known as the ‘festival with a metal edge" Ironfest involves over 1000 participants from around the country and even overseas. It attracts more than 16,000 people to Lithgow and is recognised as an event of state significance supported by Lithgow City Council, Energy Australia, the NSW Govt, Lithgow Tourism, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism, as well as a host of smaller supporters. Ironfest celebrates excellence in craft of all kinds, whether it is in metal working, costume making, jousting, jewellery making or original music making. It brings together artists, designer-makers, blacksmiths, performers of all kinds, musicians, historical re-enactors, machine enthusiasts and hobbyists from around the world, as well as people who love to dress up. This year, numerous Cosplayers are once again set to descend, in elaborate costumes, on the Lithgow Showground acting out scenes from their favourite movies, TV shows & comics. Festival Director, Macgregor Ross: “In addition to dress-up, visitors to Ironfest 2015 can expect the usual events: real Jousting on horseback, the Napoleonic era large-scale battle titled ‘The Battle of Lithgow’, an expanded Medieval Village featuring non-stop sword combat, as well as the Full-flight Birds of Prey animal display; an expanded WW2 era historical re-enactment, pro-wrestling, a new gypsy camp, over 150 quality stalls, blacksmiths, musicians, dancers, sci-fi & even more steampunkers and lots more.”

Tickets: Base/gate single day $35 adults, $30 concession, $25 children, $95 families; two-day weekend $50 adults, $40 concession, $30 children, $135 families. Details and ticket purchases: www.ironfest.net Program: Fb: www.facebook.com/ironfest & www.ironfest.net