Sydney and Blue Mountains iMag - November 2014 by iMag Publications Pty Ltd

Sydney, Blue Mountains and Central West

November 2014

The Best of Lithgow & Regions

What's your adventure choice?

Inside • • •

Regional Map Where to eat, stay and What to do Win award winning zoo passes

www.monthlyimag.com.au

d Try a new

ining expe

Stay with us fo unique experi r a ence!

Cover photo by Geoff White

rience

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

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 November Amazing Spring- full of surprises! In November Christmas is close. A huge snowfall in our mountains reminded us of the traditional Christmas look of it and the fickle Spring weather. We have some great gift ideas on the back cover and through the magazine - a calendar from one of our best photographers, wonderful books, antiques; how about a makeover for your house? Garden Festivals still continue, with Oberon’s on in November. I don’t know whether our Festivals and events breed in Spring but there are plenty of them… check out full details online or with Visitor Information Centres. We have food for your soul and all your senses, the Art is amazing, activities to stimulate or soothe, we’ve had wonderful rain followed by sunshine – come and enJoy! In keeping with the season there are new things opening now as well as the start of our holiday season. The Zoo is offering family passes and the chance to check out the new ZooFari setup at Dubbo.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Contents

and below the ground. We have markets, really fresh produce, and many roads less travelled… check out the details… 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!

Taste the Blue Mountain

Hills & Hawkesbury

As daylight hours lengthen, 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. Do have a wonderful time. 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!

Make the most of your chances to enjoy the superb areas from the Mountains to the sea, along our waterways, above

Penrith Valley

Lower Blue Mountains

Wentworth Falls

Leura Village

Main Map

Katoomba

Blackheath to Mt Victoria

Hartley

Lithgow

Wallerawang & Portland

Oberon & Bathurst

Orange

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.

Parramatta

FREE Information Guide

Download

the latest from our new website

www.monthlyimag.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

Howe House, Hawkesbury Regional Museum, Windsor © Tourism NSW

Hills & Hawkesbury In March 1788, Governor Arthur Phillip set off to find more suitable land for agriculture and travelled up the Hawkesbury River as far as Dangar Island. He returned the following year and navigated the river to a point upstream of Windsor. Governor Phillip and his party reached this area by boat on 6th July 1789 and named it Green Hills. He was impressed with its farming potential and quickly arranged for food production to begin in order to relieve the shortages in Port Jackson. Governor Macquarie named the settlement Windsor in 1810. This was the start of the Hawkesbury Hills

Be responsible for booking what will become office folklore and be known as Top quality withYEAR a country feel THE BEST resort END OF OFFICE So many different great things to do! BASH EVER!!! Perfect for all your Special Occasions

Do something a little different this year and make this year's End of Year Office function a FUN and MEMORABLE event at Retreat at Wisemans... BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL For a great range of deals visit www.wisemans.com.au or call (02) 45 66 44 22 Rate valid for bookings from June - August 2011, subject to availability. * Conditions apply

6 www.monthlyimag.com.au

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.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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

Walk along the Wisemans jetty and spot the fish Visit the award-winning regional museum and Visit Hawkesbury Regional Gallery 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!

Lola Greeno: Master of Australian Craft 17 October - 7 December. One of only a handful of Tasmanian Aboriginal women who still painstakingly harvest, process and thread tiny shells into long, intricately patterned necklaces, Lola Greeno has been responsible for ensuring the traditions and processes of this craft are passed from Elders to younger women in their communities, ensuring these skills and knowledge are maintained. Highly respected nationally by her peers in the arts, and a leading role model for her own community, Greeno’s achievement has now been honoured with the exhibition Lola Greeno: Cultural Jewels, the latest exhibition in the ongoing series, Living Treasures: Masters of Australian Craft, which celebrates the achievements of the most influential and iconic figures in the Australian crafts movement. The exhibition opens at Hawkesbury Regional Gallery in Windsor on Friday 17 October, and continues till 7 December. Greeno has developed a major body of work specifically for this exhibition, and has supplemented fragile strings of coastally harvested shells, local to her ‘country’, with works that use other traditional materials and techniques, including kelp, echidna quills, bones and found objects. The stories of the artist’s life, traditions and culture are a strong thread through the exhibition that ties the themes of history, traditions and customs together. The exhibition will present contemporary installations that reference the works to the body, while highlighting the Indigenous culture and history of northern Tasmania and the Bass Strait Islands Indigenous women. According to Gallery Director, Diana Robson, visitors can look forward to a ‘non-museum’ style of presentation of the works, and an ‘experiential view’ of Greeno’s collecting, preparing and making processes. There is also a beautifully-produced accompanying monograph, copies of which will be available to read in the gallery and to buy.

Lola Greeno, tunne necklace [detail] 2012 Mussel shells, gumnuts, ochre, wire

Lola Greeno, carner necklace [detail] 2012 Abalone shells, echidna quills, wire Photographer: John Leeming QVMAG

Also on show, the world-renowned photographic series Something More, by Tracey Moffatt. The series was commissioned by Albury Regional Art Gallery in 1989, and was produced in Albury, with local people as cast and crew. Moffatt went on to become one of Australia’s most successful international artists, known for her film, photography and video works. Drawing on cinema, television and the media, her art is as likely to be inspired by popular culture and recollections of images from her childhood and adolescence, as it is by art history. Shot in the Link Studios in Wodonga, this sequence of nine images is a loose narrative, shot like film stills, in which the artist references the possible meanings of the title and its hint of sadomasochism.

Tracy MOFFATT. Something More # 3, 1989. Cibachrome photograph. AlburyCity Collection. Commissioned by Albury Regional Gallery with funds from Visual Arts/Craft Board of the Australia Council, Aboriginal Arts Committee of the Australia Council, the Exhibitions Development Fund of the Regional Galleries Association of New South Wales and the New South Wales Ministry for the Arts.

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.

• Gift vouchers. • Xmas gift ideas. • Tours & groups welcome (by appointment). Hours: Mon – Fri: 9:30 – 5pm Sat: 9:30 – 1pm Follow us on Facebook for news and specials.

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).

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.

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

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 New Busby’s Café Dreamwood Estate Bed and Breakfast is Restaurant 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, with no deadlines. 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. The Dreamwood Estate Alpaca & Giftware Shop offers B&B Guests a lovely range of handmade Australian alpaca products and raw fleece for the discerning spinner. Find Dreamwood Estate on Facebook and download the Hawkesbury Harvest Farm Gate Trail App for more details.

Award-winning chef Jamie Busby at Wiseman Ferry’s new Busby’s Café Restaurant cooks up such a storm that this place is already becoming a really popular destination. With so much going for it, no wonder! The food is fresh seasonal produce, as local as possible with plenty of variety. The views are stunning, you may eat indoors or out, breakfast lunch dinner and snacks. Bookings are of course the way to go. There is even local art to enjoy. So do come on down!

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner as well as Morning & Afternoon Tea. Phone: (02) 4566 4787 Shop 12, 5557 Old Northern Road Wisemans Ferry, NSW 2775 info@busbyscaferestaurant.com

www.busbyscaferestaurant.com.au

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au 15-mile or 24-km Parramatta River, which enters Port Jackson harbour. The Parramatta River Cat ferry takes passengers from Parramatta to Sydney along the River. The River Cat is a scenic and relaxing way to explore the waterways . Ferries are cheap and certainly a fast and pleasant way to travel all over Sydney. There are many pleasant places to eat, shop and even go to the theatre along the Parramatta River, not to mention stroll, fish or simply relax. Parramatta is famous for a wide variety of retail and dining options!

WE REMEMBER THEM HMAS Parramatta II The Royal Australian Navy received the Grimsby Class Sloop following its launching in 1939. She took part in operations against Italian Eritrea, East Africa, in 1941, then transferred to the Mediterranean station, escorting vessels carrying desperately needed supplies to Tobruk in North Africa where Australian soldiers were under siege by HMAS Parramatta painted in camouflage, the German army led by Rommel. In moored in Mersa Matruh, Egypt 1942. one action, forty eight dive bombers attacked the ship and her surrounding vessels; yet she successfully defended her charges. On November 27, 1941 a single torpedo struck amidships tearing the ship apart. One hundred and thirty-eight men, including the Commanding Officer and all nine officers, lost their lives. Only twenty-four of the crew survived. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 30, 2014 at 11am in the Queens Wharf Reserve, George Street, Parramatta. Parramatta Memorial Sub-Section Naval Association of Australia, representatives of HMAS Parramatta IV, Royal Australian Navy and Parramatta & District Historical Society will attend. You are invited to join the Parramatta and District Historical Society Telephone (02) 9635- 6924 (Hambledon) (02) 9871- 4155 (Secretary) Hambledon Cottage House Museum, 63 Hassall Street, corner Gregory Place, Parramatta. www. parramattahistorical.org.au email: parramattahist@tpg.com.au

Parramatta has many historic buildings, including Elizabeth Farm (Built in 1793, it is the nation’s oldest surviving European building). Old Government House (Built in 1799, it is the oldest public building in Australia). Experiment Farm Cottage (Built in 1834 it is the site of the first land grant). Hambledon Cottage (Built in 1824 by John and Elizabeth Macarthur for 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

What to See & Do 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!

10 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Penrith Valley It’s always a pleasure to welcome visitors to Penrith Valley. It’s the harmony of urban and rural lifestyles, our rivers, mountains and lakes, great shopping, educational facilities, entertainment and diverse housing choices that make Penrith Valley a great place to live, work, visit and invest. Located 55 kilometres west of Sydney, Penrith Valley is the place where two of Greater Sydney’s most spectacular features converge. One is the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains; the other is the Nepean River, one of eastern Australia’s great rivers. These natural features give Penrith Valley a relaxed, rural feeling, with the benefit of city standard facilities available

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

in the City of Penrith. Penrith Valley has a full range of activities and events to make your stay, enjoyable, relaxing and exciting. Try whitewater rafting, cycling, boating or have a picnic by the water. For some retail therapy explore the many markets, pick up a bargain at a factory outlet or visit one of our major retail shopping centres. For a cultural experience, take in a show or spend the afternoon at our art gallery. In the evening, check out the local nightclubs, the various live entertainment venues, a woolshed dance or the cinema complex. There is something on offer to suit all ages and tastes.

Mamre House Educational Programs • In 2014 Mamre House is offering innovative educational youth programs and events throughout the year and during school holidays. Enthusiastic student archaeologists have been excitedly digging for historical artifacts at Mamre House, systematically recording treasures found in an archaeological dig on Mamre farm. The Mamre Archaeology Project, is a unique, hands-on educational program for high school students in years 7-11, involving the study of archaeological method and theory in conjunction with practical learning in a simulated excavation, with special emphasis on the history of Mamre Homestead in the 1800’s. • The Mamre Horse Whispering Program is also being offered this year. This innovative program will employ natural horsemanship as a means of teaching kids trust, respect, selfesteem, and positive communication. A combination of in-class activities,

videos, ground handling of horses, and basic riding, covering Pat Parelli’s “Seven Games” as well as Monty Robert’s “Join Up” are the highlights of the program. Students will be able to progress and continue their natural horsemanship training as this program can be tailored to cater for students growing capabilities. • For more information and for bookings, please email Eleni Argy, Education Programs Manager, eleni.argy@mamre.com.au

What to See & Do Visit the award winning Muru Mittigar Aboriginal Cultural Centre for a range of authentic experiences Visit the excellent Penrith City Library Enjoy a Family Astronomy Night at the local observatory Penrith’s riverside parks provide wonderful places for a family picnic Attend a performance at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre Penrith RSL have an amazing range of performers Check out Model Park Open Day for model trains, planes, boats & cars in action Cruise on the Nepean River aboard either the Nepean Belle or Penrith Platypus Visit the Sydney International Regatta Centre 2000 Sydney Olympics’ venue Follow either the Farmgate or the Heritage Trails around Penrith Valley Enjoy one of the many cafes and restaurants in Penrith Valley Sport of all kinds may be enjoyed in Penrith in all seasons

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

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

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

National Trust

14 Norman Lindsay Cres. Faulconbridge

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

smallest mountain community, 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-Fri 9.00am to 5pm and 8.30am - 4.30pm Weekends and Public Holidays Ph: 1300 653 408 www.bluemountainscitytourism.com.au

...will take you there!

Songs in the Garden Live music performed by Midnight Avenue in the Gallery Gardens. Sydney-based singers Meinir Ann Thomas, Keara Donohoe and Simon Masterton make up the close harmony vocal trio Midnight Avenue. For Songs in the Garden the group will perform a selection of songs spanning the different genres of jazz, cabaret, folk, easy listening and everything in between that celebrates some of the greatest vocal music of the 20th century. Saturday 22nd November 2014 from 6pm (gates open at 5pm) Tickets can be purchased from our online shop. Prices are: Adults $30, Under 18 yrs $15, For further information please contact the Gallery on 02 4751 1067.

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.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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 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.

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. Mountain High Pies offer the best range of Award winning pies and superb coffee in the Mountains, with parking at 293 Great Western Highway. They are on your right going up the mountains or on your left descending. www.mountainhighpies.com.au Like them on Facebook!

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. Visitors to Leura are guaranteed to experience the relaxed nature of the town. The Blue Mountains City Council has ensured that any developments within Leura fall into the strict guidelines of the town with heritage colours used throughout. 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 multi-

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

award-winning Josophan’s Chocolates – see if you are able to organise a tasting. They also have a shop down in Sydney. Bygone Beautys has something for everyone from refreshments to die for to the most amazing range of antiques and collectables that this place is a whole experience in itself. A range of exquisite yet affordable delights await you here. 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!

What to See & Do Toy and Railway Museum, located within Leuralla mansion. The museum features Australia’s largest collection of toys, dolls, teddy bears and model

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

Come and visit...

Bygone Beautys

Antiques & Tearoom and see the amazing

Treasured Teapot Collection “World’s largest Private Collection”

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

www.bygonebeautys.com.au

Come in & enjoy our famous Devonshire Tea Last Tearoom orders 5pm

14 www.monthlyimag.com.au

HAY

AV ACACIA AV K AV MYALL

JAMIESO

HERBE

RUSSE LL

ROAD

D ST

HESTER RD

Blue Mountains National Park

RD ST GEO RGES

CHAMBER S ST

ST AND REW

Leura Golf Course

NT MO IR FA

Peppers Fairmont Resort

Blue Mountains National Park

Leura Golf Course

WATKI NS

RO AD

CLIFF VIE W

Golf Links Lookout

CLI

Gordon Falls Lookout

Bowling Club

GLADS TO NE

LONE PI NE AV

AL BALMOR

WOODFOR

CONISTO N RD

ADES

EVERGL

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

LEUR Cliff Wal k

Gordon Falls Reserve

POPLAR

KURRAW ANG

EASTE

MORVE N

CRAIGEN

KENSETT

BENJAMIN

VICTORIA

LACHL

ALBERT

ST BLACKHEAT H

RD ry

OL YM PIA

SALSBUR Y AV

MOU ESP

LAMBERT P L

HARTLE AV

SPENC ER

ABBEY

ISABEL PACKER ST

??? School

TT S CO

COOK

COUSINS L A

TENNYSON

L MAL

GROSE

UR A

WASCOE

JERSEY

CLIFF

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! Our cover image captures Hartley-based artist Warwick Fuller and Digger, at home in front of one of many granite boulder formations on Warwick's property. The image below features an exhibition of Warwick's exquisite paintings inside the main exhibition space at Katoomba's Lost Bear Gallery. This superb 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 architectural features you¹ll discover. Twelve unique exhibition spaces, together with an outdoor sculpture garden are home to an extensive art collection by leading contemporary artists.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

16 www.monthlyimag.com.au

♦ 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 ♦ Licensed a la carte restaurant and cocktail bar ♦ Guest lounge areas with open fireplaces ♦ Exercise room ♦ Billiards ♦ Garden terraces ♦ Day spa and beauty treatment centre

Gosford

Congratulations to The Mountain Heritage Hotel & Spa Retreat

on your Gold Award for Deluxe Accommodation in BMLOT Tourism Awards. We wish you every success in NSW and National Awards.

HOTEL & SPA RETREAT BLUE MOUNTAINS NSW

Phone: 4782 2155 or visit us at www.mountainheritage.com.au View menus and package deals online or follow us on Facebook! www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

What to See & Do

Enjoy the art and culture walk.

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 Visit Trolley Tours to book a great tour of your choice maybe including Jenolan Caves or even a horse ride.

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!

Brett Whiteley West of the Divide 26 September – 30 November 2014 This exhibition focuses on the enduring connection Whiteley had with the region west of the Great Dividing Range. Featuring 37 works spanning three decades of the artist’s career. A Blue Mountains Cultural Centre exhibition in association with the Brett Whiteley Studio and The Art Gallery of NSW

02 4780 5410 I 30 Parke St Katoomba NSW 2780 Open 10am – 5pm Mon – Fri, 10am – 4pm Sat & Sun 10am – 2pm public holidays (closed Good Friday & Xmas Day)

www.bluemountainsculturalcentre.com.au BRETT WHITELEY Marulan bird with rocks, circa 1980, oil, gouache, collage, rocks on plywood, 96.5 x 77 cm. Brett Whiteley Studio. Photo: AGNSW. © Wendy Whiteley

18 www.monthlyimag.com.au

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)

Unique Australian Art Book on Warwick Fuller Warwick Fuller has painted the Australian landscape for over thirty-five years, during which time he has built a solid reputation, boasting career highlights such as serving as the Official Tour Artist during the Royal tour of Australia in 2012. Four of Fuller's resulting paintings were acquired by the Prince of Wales and now reside in his private collection. Wishing to showcase his work in a creative and lasting way, he conceived of a book in which each painting was interpreted in poetry. A chance mention of his idea to acclaimed ABC journalist Sean Murphy led to the shy disclosure of some of Murphy’s own, as yet unpublished, poetry. Impressions & Interpretations was underway. Murphy's poetry adds a second dimension

to the paintings, an added guidance with which to navigate that void between artwork and viewer. In some, he has restored what is no longer visible: the experience of painting. He illuminates the burdens, blessings and emotional cycles that are part of that particular creative act. More often though, Murphy focuses on the subject matter, weaving from the paint a story, sometimes personal, sometimes metaphoric, sometimes expanding upon the physical location and its myths and history. Both poem and painting can exist independently, yet together each enhances the other. Impressions & Interpretations is a work of art in itself, a celebration of human creativity in words and paint. It is the

perfect introduction to Fuller’s work, and for those already enamoured of his work, it is a new and unique insight into his passion and motivations. After such a unique creative undertaking, one can only anticipate with excitement what will come next for both Fuller and Murphy. Book review by arts writer - Caterina Leone

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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

Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges are the latest offering of the Escarpment group, opened at Blackheath – it will be interesting to see how they go… The sprawling Hydro Majestic project is still planning to open in stages Rhodo festival will be running throughout October and November, See the webite for all the great events www.rhodofestival.com.au

20 www.monthlyimag.com.au

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Neighbourhood Centre. It has been recently refurbished by this proud community.

What to See & Do The Kanimbla Valley Walking Tracks, which take in Pulpit Rock, Bede’s Lookout, Reinitz Pass and Ross Cave.

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.

The array of buildings and boutique shops selling antiques, craft and bric-a-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

Lots of Christmas ideas at Victory Theatre

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

Kee in the 90’s. It is one of three original historic buildings in the town, built alongside the Gardener’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 Jenny

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 situated at the bottom of Victoria Pass, on the Great Western Highway in the valley between Mount Victoria and Lithgow.

Midas Touch High Tea is a magical pleasure where you experience the elegance and decadence of the splendour of tea. Spend time with us and let us satisfy your

palate whilst you enjoy time amongst family and friends. Unwind in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy all that the Midas Touch has to offer Need a new idea for kitchen tea parties? Midas Touch is something different , bringing a touch of finesse to the occasion.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Hartley Saddlery Christmas promotions in store throughout November and December Come in for bargains, phone, check us out online or on Facebook.

Hens afternoons - what better way to start the hen in her way than afternoon delicacies before a night of fun! 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

Lot 13, Carrol Drive. Hartley 2790 Ph (02) 6355 2352

High Tea is a magical pleasure where you experience the elegance and decadence of the splendure tea. OPEN 7 of DAYS

H A RT L E Y S A D D L E R Y PH: 63552165

Spend timewww.thehartleysaddlery.com.au with us and let us satisfy your palate whilst you enjoy time amongst family and friends. CLOTHING • BOOTS • UGGS • WHIPS • HATS • RUGS • WINE

Unwind in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy all that 22 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Lithgow

Surprisingly diverse

For a free copy of the

Lithgow Visitor Guide

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

www.tourism.lithgow.com november 2014.indd 1

Lithgow Tourism 16/10/14 1:56 PM

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Lithgow

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

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 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.

November is packed with events in Lithgow with a couple of standout action events. Lithgow Flash® Carnival Saturday 29 November 2014 The Lithgow Flash Gift is a professional athletics carnival with athletes invited from all over Australia. Races are conducted under a handicap system “The Lithgow Flash Gift” is named for Mrs Marjorie Jackson-Nelson, The Lithgow Flash, who during her athletic career won two Olympic gold medals (Helsinki 1952) and seven Commonwealth Games gold medals. The feature race of the day is the Centennial Coal Women’s Lithgow Flash® Gift, one of the richest women’s

sprint races in Australia with $11,000 of prize money. This event attracts some of the fastest sprinters in Australia with Olympic and Commonwealth Games representatives competing in previous years. The Lithgow Flash® Carnival includes two great events for social and amateur runners, and you don’t need to be member of a club to enter. The Coal Services 5 kilometre Valley Challenge is open to teams and individual and has $2,000 of prize money on offer. The GHD Zig Zag Mile is for open and masters runners with $2,000 of prize money on offer. Enter the events by downloading the entry forms from the Lithgow Flash Gift website www. lithgow.com/flashgift/ Junior events will commence at 10.30 am and will be conducted by Lithgow Little Athletics Club. Tony Luchetti Showground, Lithgow Lithgow Tourism 1300 76 02 76 www.lithgow.com/flashgift/ 2014 Metropolitan Invitational Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 November Combined Districts Kart Club is proud

24 www.monthlyimag.com.au

What to See & Do

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

to host the inaugural Metropolitan Invitational, one of the biggest karting events in the county for 2014. Drivers from 5 Metro clubs in NSW will compete in team events to determine the best club in the region. Other clubs include Wollongong, Newcastle, Northshore and Sydney. There will be 13 classes of up to 300 drivers aged between 7 years and 60 years. Food and drinks are available in the club house with a view of all the action on the track. Cost: Free for spectators 60 Oakey Forest Road, Marrangaroo president@cdkc.com.au www.cdkc.com.au Saturday 29 November 12pm – 4pm Sunday 30 November 8am – 4pm

Clean-up After Snow Storm The clean-up of the Lithgow area started following the big snow storm mid October. "Last night the area received one of the biggest snow falls in recent history” said Lithgow City Council Mayor, Councillor Maree Statham “unfortunately this storm has caused a massive amount of damage across the area with many many trees being affected, fences being brought down and of course damage to our road network.” “Council staff were at work very early this morning assessing the damage and starting the repairs and are doing tremendous work in getting things back to normal” said Mayor Statham. “Completing the repairs is going to take some time but I do feel that residents will be understanding and patient. Priorities will have to go to those areas where there are trees or large tree limbs on the road or impacting on power lines along with those impacting on peoples’ safety such as trees threatening power lines.” “The clean-up is expected to take several weeks though.” “Staff will also be looking at the possibility of making a claim for assistance from the State Government for the damage.”

interesting place." "A new Aqua Fitness program is also being provided this season is Aqua Fitness. This includes a 45 minute water based class for all ages and fitness levels. The classes will be held from Saturday, 18th October 2014 and will be free for season ticket holders or $8.00 including pool entry for non season ticket holders. Participants are required to fill out a pre exercise health questionnaire before participating. Questionnaires can be obtained from the Aquatic Centre between 8.00am – 6.30pm or from Council’s Customer Service between 8.15am – 4.30pm." Classes will be held on: Saturday 8.30am – 9.15am Monday 10.00am – 10.45am Wednesday & Thursday 6.00pm – 6.45pm "Season tickets are valid for the season's end on 31st March 2015, but a discount is provided for those that purchase before the end of October."

water temperature of the main pool is sitting at a beautiful 26 to 27 degrees celsius." "I am looking forward to a very busy and absolutely wonderful season and especially looking forward to the completion of the construction of the new 25m indoor pool is currently underway and at this stage is expected to be completed by mid 2015" concluded Mrs McFadden. Working together to support, celebrate and expand the social and cultural diversity of our community whilst promoting healthy, active lifestyles in a safe environment and ensuring sustainable and planned growth through the provision of effective public and private transport options and suitable entertainment and recreational facilities to enhance the lifestyle choices of the community are is a part of Council’s strategy to Care for our Community in the Community Strategic Plan 2026.

"The operating hours of the Pool are 7.00am and 7.00pm weekdays, and 8.00am and 7.00pm weekends and public holidays. Council's Pool Supervisor, Mrs Treena McFadden, said "the pool is looking absolutely great at the moment and the

“To assist residents with the clean-up an extra green waste collection is being scheduled and further details of this will be publicised in the coming week.” “Unfortunately with the power outage from the snow storm the telephone lines to the Council administration building were also impacted, while a temporary arrangement was put in place some people may have been affected.” “It is rather remarkable that almost 12 months to the day that last year we were dealing with one of the worst bush fires in our history and now we have this. It does remind me of Dorethea Mackellar’s poem ‘MyCountry’” concluded Mayor Statham.

Lithgow Pool Open Swimming season for 2014-15 at the Lithgow pool is now underway. "We have had some absolutely beautiful weather for the start of the 2014-15 swimming season here at the Lithgow 50m pool which opened on the October Long Weekend" said Lithgow City Council Group Manager Operations, Mr Iain Stewart "while the overall facility continues to undergo a very significant upgrade, the current 50metre pool is now open for business." "In recent years we have added a new entry to the pool along with a Splash Park and jumping pillow making it a much more

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Wallerawang/Portland

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au arrange to join one of his classes.

In 1863 Thomas Murray selected land that would later become the site of Portland and he established the first

Old World Charm & Modern Conveniences

$259,000

22 Bell Street * 3 large bedrooms all boasting French doors opening to a private verandah. * Large versatile kitchen. * Separate dining, spacious north facing lounge room with large windows. * Large laundry /utility room. * Attached one bedroom flat comprising of ensuite, built-ins, kitchenette & lounge/dining room. * Located on a sunny 796 meters squared corner block. * Old single garage.

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

26 www.monthlyimag.com.au

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 Wallerawang is famous for its Black Gold (coal) associations with Delta electricity. Portland’s Crystal Theatre hosts cinema as well as art shows and is famous for its street fairs. Portland’s big swimming pool has celebrated 50 years and Wallerawang’s historic old station’s heritage redevelopment has led to a florist, lolly shop, café and art gallery. With the art, lakes, history, fine dining and comfortable accommodation, it’s worth taking your time to explore these two villages. Visit Chris Woolcock at The Village Toymakers to watch him at work or

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 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

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

heels in 1873. St John the Evangelist Church opened in 1881 as a memorial to the Walker/Barton family.

Blue Puya at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden The Garden looks stunning at this time of year with ‘pink snow’, in the form of cherry blossom petals often swirling past visitors as several flowering cherry, Prunus cultivars, bloom to the west of the Residence Garden and below the spring lawn. The newly leaved Japanese maple, Acer palmatum cultivars, dogwood, Cornus florida ‘Rubra’, Camellia japonica and many azalea cultivars and rhododendron species such as Rhododendron ‘Rose Queen’ are filling the Garden with colour and fragrance. Delicate wisteria flowers are opening in the Formal Garden and near the Brunet Pavilion, as well as the beautiful Banksian rose, Rosa banksiae 'Lutea', arbour cascading in cream. One of the Garden’s most spectacular plants to see in November is the blue puya: Puya berteroniana. The large flower stalks, called ‘inflorescences’, of this magical plant rise from the masses of curling, silvery foliage, displaying deep turquoise blue flowers and in the centre of the flowers, beaming out, are the highly contrasting orange anthers attracting birds, bees and other insects. The blue puya’s flower spikes stand two metres tall, dominating the Chilean section of the Rock Garden. The blue puya has incredible beauty, colour and form and appears to be from another world.

The seed of our puya was collected in 1985 by Royal Botanic Gardens staff. One of the collecting sites was in the Vilches Alto National Park near Santiago in central Chile, South America. These particular Puya berteroniana were growing at around 1,300 metres in altitude on exposed rock outcrops on a steep, forested mountain slopes. After three years in the nursery and five years in their present site, the flowers appeared for their first time in the late spring of 1993. The plants have continued to grow and multiply and are now one of our main attractions in the Garden each spring. With around 185 species, Puya is one of the largest genera in the pineapple family; Bromeliaceae. Most of its species are concentrated along the Andes mountain range of South America, some at altitudes up to nearly 5,000 metres. Very few Puya species have become popular in cultivation. Puya berteroniana, the blue puya, is one of the southernmost species of puya and consequently more frost-hardy than many of the other species. The silvery, rosette of leaves has hooked prickles running along the edges, which tend to tear rather than scratch. These are presumed to be a defence against browsing animals. Therefore, admire the floral spectacle but do not get too close to the spikes.

Around the Garden As well as visiting our beautiful plant displays, you can stay at the Garden in the secluded Jungle Lodge, which is set within pristine rainforest. We also have plantthemed events throughout the seasons and unique venues for hire around the Garden, outside and in. There are a variety of tours, guided and self-guided or just relax and enjoy the panoramic view from the deck. The menu at Tomah Gardens Restaurant (one hat) features local produce. Here you can enjoy high quality healthy food and the rustic environment which features locally made furniture and design elements.

November events Mystery of the Munchers Collect your kit from the Visitor Centre - $5 Every day through spring, 9.30am-5pm Explore the Garden to find the six mystery stops. It’s a wild world out there… and who is munching who? Enjoy fun handson activities and discover some amazing relationships between plants and animals. Make a waratah to display in the Visitor Centre. Butterflies, Bees and Jewel Beetles Waratah Education Centre - $95 Sunday 9 Nov 10 am – 3 pm Join wildlife artist Fiona Lumsden to explore the essential link between insects and flowers as bees, butterflies and other insects add life to botanical compositions. See the tiny marvels of engineering and bizarre beauty that are our insect cousins and team them with their flower partners. Refreshments are included. Participants to bring their own lunch.

coME iNTo ThE Garden The BLue MounTainS BoTanic Garden, MounT ToMah Beautiful flowering plants • exhibition centre • inspiring art • guided tours • kids’ activities • Jungle Lodge accommodation • wedding venues • restaurant with views • Garden Shop www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

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

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Oberon - Bathurst

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Bathurst Visitor Information Centre 1 Kendall Avenue, Bathurst Phone: 1800 68 1000 E: visitors@bathurst.nsw.gov.au www.visitbathurst.com.au

...will take you there!

Before you turn off the Highway towards Jenolan Caves I suggest you explore Hartley Historic Village.

28 www.monthlyimag.com.au

BATHURST

SWIMMING POOL

INdOOr TENNIS COUrT

CUNYNGHAME STREET

DART

STREET

SCOTIA AVENUE

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

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

pi n e h

ill

Travelling west on Great Western Highway as you descend Mount Victoria Pass, you see the view that rewarded the explorers when they crossed the Blue Mountains. Hartley is situated at the bottom of Victoria Pass, in the valley between Mount Victoria and Lithgow. The Hartley area provides a great insight into NSW settlement and early Australian History with some wonderful fully restored and operational historic buildings – in addition to the beautifully preserved buildings in Hartley Historic Village. Some of the historic buildings have been turned into elegant accommodation and licensed restaurant facilities and there are other new hideaway rural retreats. It’s a beautiful area.

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

award winning Jenolan Caves, the most spectacular limestone caves in Australia, maybe stay there - the beauty above and below ground is inspirational. Get the app!

JENOLAN CARAVAN PARK

www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au

What to See & Do

p or

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.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Jenolan Cabins

42 Edith Rd, Jenolan Caves Ph: 02 6335 6239 M: 0418 619 709 E: relax@jenolancabins.com.au

www.jenolancabins.com.au

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

Telephone 02 6336 0344 jenolancaravanpark@bigpond.com www.jenolancaravanpark.com.au

OBERON simple pleasures Showcasing the majestic Jenolan Caves and world heritage National Parks, enchanting forest and farming country and village life

Oberon Visitor Information Centre Cnr Ross Street and Edith Road Oberon NSW 2787

02 63298210 oberonaustralia.com

Whats on in Oberon Oberon and Villages Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November Open Gardens Oberon region Oberon Garden Club will have 6 large country gardens for viewing in town and in the Gingkin area. Tickets to all gardens $12 and are available for purchase at the Oberon Visitor Information Centre. Contact :Rosalie Pollock 6335 8257 Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November Mayfield Garden 530 Mayfield Road, Oberon Open from 9.00am – 4.30pm Mayfield Garden is breathtaking in its stunning design and detailed craftsmanship. The entire private garden is open twice a year for visitors to enjoy. Follies and features to experience include the 80 metre cascade, the rose garden, croquet court, creek gardens, birchgrove, walled kitchen garden, aviary, the sunken garden rooms, sunken parterre and sweeping lawns. Contact: Mayfield Garden 6336 3131. Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November Gairloch Garden 27 Blenheim Avenue, Oberon Open from 10.00am – 5.00pm Gairloch Garden is a cool climate garden

presented in a series of themed areas. Extensive hedging and timber and masonry trellises; water is featured in many parts of the garden. You can also see a crochet lawn, mirrors, walk-through fernery and metal garden art Contact: Gairloch Garden 6336 0291 Sunday 9 November Art in the Vines Renzaglia Wines, 38 Bosworth Falls Road, O’Connell An invitation to come to the vineyard to sketch, paint, take photos or sculpt. Bring a picnic and hopefully taste some wine too! Set up stalls and sell your art, craft and creations. Contact: Renzaglia Wines 0413 196036 Saturday 22 November A Midsummer Night’s Dream Oberon RSL Club Come along for a night of magic and mayhem in one of Shakespeare’s most loved comedies. Proving that the course of love never did run smoothly, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is an enchanting tale of fairies, royalty and star-crossed lovers, unfolding on a magical Midsummer’s night in the forest. Playing for one night only. From 8.00pm Contact: Barbara Coleman 6336 1839

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

What to See & Do

Visit the T Rex in Fossil & Mineral Museum. Visit one of the beautiful villages in this region such as Peel and Wattle Flat on the way to Sofala, the oldest surviving gold town in Australia. Visit historic Perthville and maybe have a wagon ride. The Bathurst District Historical Museum and the Bathurst Art Gallery are full of treasures.

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.

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… VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE IS MOVING Orange Visitor Information Centre 8.15am to 5pm Mon to Fri Corner Byng St & Lords Pl Orange NSW Phone: 02 6393 8000 - 1800 069 466 E: council@orange.nsw.gov.au www.visitorange.com.au

...will take you there!

Spring has sprung! New Seasons Vigorella, RTM, Threads & Clarity and plenty of other gorgeous brands. Lots of cotton and lots of colour! Handbags, Jewellery, shoes, and gifts from around the globe Quality children’s lines, 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 the 2 Fat Ladies November 2014 Bookings essential call on 63655437

Derby Day Sat 1st November Time TBA $20(all proceeds go to Breast Cancer charity) Considered by many to be the most prestigious day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, this is the day for classic elegance. So join us at 2 Fat Ladies for a fun day out and take this opportunity to dress up in your black and white, take part in our own fashions on the floor and watch the race while sipping bubbly and enjoying some canapés. November 14th 6.30pm Threadz Product Night New Seasons Threadz Fashion Parade plus styling advise with the lovely Michelle from Threadz. Champagne on arrival. Cost: Free. Bookings essential. My Colour My Style workshops: Sat 15th November 1.30-4.30pm $50 Identify your most flattering colours! Identify your Style! With our fabulous fashion styling and makeup workshop. Bookings essential, maximum numbers 8 people. Mineral Makeup Masterclass: Sat 22nd November 2-4pm $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 Like us on Facebook as 2 Fat Ladies

Bissys Café If you’ve read the book the “Secret Garden” then you would be well aware of the adventures and magical mystery found there. If you would like to step back in time and go to a place which is similar and family friendly then go no further than Bissys Café Orange. Nature based play, zero mile diet and now on Saturdays and Sundays there is the chance to sit back and enjoy the music from talented people like Sarah Harvey. Open till 4pm every Saturday and Sunday with a liquor licence now available from midday on you could make yourself right at home in the Alfresco café garden located through the Warrendine street entrance gates. Don’t be surprised if times gets away on you and you find yourself lost in time when enjoying this relaxing environment.

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

Café & Lolly Shop lollies f o e g n a r g Amazin all over , K U , A S U from well as s a ld r o w e th vourites, Australian fa hoice! c unbeatable

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

Hearty meals with fresh ingredients for travellers!

Mitchell Highway Lucknow - Phone: 6365 5001

www.facebook.com/FipasWorld

88 Warrendine St Orange www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

It’s beginning to look a lot like

Christmas!

wild blue mountains

CALENDAR

2015

15 fine nature photographs

Selected local shops and direct from Windy Cliff Press 4787 1420 SEE www.windycliff.com.au

At the same time we were fighting fires in Lithgow last year, we had one of the heaviest snow falls in years… but that’s Australia for you and especially this region! We have some wonderful art and books for you, a fabulous shop below and more inside the magazine… Bianca Villa offers all sorts of things - from a total house makeover to a tiny gift, that will just make someone’s Christmas

The new Newnes Book

64 pages of beautiful photography by Ian Brown and others with text on the history and background of Newnes. - $25 available from Ian Brown ph.:47871420 Email:ianbrown@lisp.com.au or at the Newnes Hotel Kiosk 63 551 247 - newnes@lisp.com.au

homewares, furniture, antiques and antiques gifts homewares, furniture, and gifts homewares, furniture, antiques and gifts

7 Main St Lithgow BIANCA ph: 02 6352 VILLA 3383 mon-fri 10am-5pm sat 10am-4pm sun10am-2pm

7 Main St Lithgow 7 Main St Lithgow ph: 02 6352 3383 ph: 02 6352 3383 mon-fri 10am-5pm sat 10am-4pm mon-fri 10am-5pm sun10am-2pm sat 10am-4pm sun10am-2pm