Cowra Visitor Guide 2022

WELCOME TO COUNTRY

Ngiyanhi

guwaymbanha ngindhugir Cowra-gu Wiradyurigu Ngurambang-gu.

Ngurambang Wiradyuri-gu Mayiny-gu Nginhadhuray guwaymbanha, ngiyanhi ngayarra nganha nginyalgir yindyamalgirri Wiradyuri Mayiny-bu Wiradyuri Ngurambang-bu.

Mandaang guwu

We welcome you to Cowra, Wiradjuri Country.

Home of the Wiradjuri People.

With this welcome, we ask that you all will respect Wiradjuri People and Wiradjuri Country.

Thank you.

WELCOME

Welcome to the Cowra Shire and our wonderful town and villages nestled in the heart of the beautiful Lachlan Valley of NSW.

Cowra

Shire has a proud Indigenous history and we acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or you’ve been before, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the many unique experiences and warm hospitality that Cowra has to offer during your stay.

Delve into our rich history with a visit to the Prisoner of War Camp Site, ring Australia’s World Peace Bell or enjoy a stroll through the renowned Cowra Japanese Garden. Sample goods from our celebrated local wine and food producers, including our award-winning Cowra lamb and delicious shiraz. Explore our stunning natural scenery, including the water, walks and views at Wyangala Dam.

Our central location also makes Cowra the perfect base to explore everything the beautiful region around us has to offer, with vibrant events, amazing produce and beautiful landscapes all within a comfortable distance.

welcome you to discover it all in the Cowra Shire.

Mayor Bill West

Enjoy four days in Cowra, Canowindra and Countryside. Learn about our history, take in our spectacular views and make your visit an unforgettable experience.

PLAN YOUR ESCAPE DAY 1

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN OUR HISTORY

 Start at the COWRA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE and watch the powerful hologram presentation about the Cowra Prisoner of War Breakout in 1944.

 Tour the stunning JAPANESE GARDEN AND CULTURAL CENTRE and enjoy a coffee or lunch at the Japanese Garden Cafe.

 Stroll or cycle along the Cowra Peace Precinct via the Garrison Walk. Interpretive signage will bring the history of the site to life amongst the beautiful scenic views.

 Visit the PRISONER OF WAR CAMPSITE and replica guard tower. Stop at the viewing platform and immerse yourself in the history of the site before heading down the pebbled walk to the five-panel commemorative sculpture.

 Pay your respects at the AUSTRALIAN, INDONESIAN AND JAPANESE WAR CEMETERIES.

 Ring AUSTRALIA’S WORLD PEACE BELL and listen to the audio presentation.

COWRA VOICES APP

Launched for the 75th anniversary of the Cowra Breakout, the Cowra Voices Storytelling app is a tour guide in your pocket. The app includes stories of Wiradjuri elders, personal histories of people buried at the Cowra Japanese War Cemetery, and local stories of grassroots peace-building by members of the Cowra community.

You can download the app on Google Play and the Apple App Store.

through the picturesque COWRA ROSE

the Cowra Visitor

stroll down the LACHLAN RIVER WALK

begins under the Cowra Bridge, home to the

INDIGENOUS ART MURALS.

3

DISCOVER CANOWINDRA

Take a 20 minute drive to CANOWINDRA and visit historic GASKILL STREET.

your Canowindra experience unforgettable by booking a BALLOON FLIGHT.

the variety of exhibitions on display

the COWRA REGIONAL ART GALLERY.

panoramic

up close and touch the amazing 360-million-year-old fish fossils at the AGE OF FISHES MUSEUM.

a delicious treat from one of the local cafes and

through the unique wares at the boutiques

explore the walking tracks through the BELLEVUE HILL NATURE RESERVE

BELLEVUE HILL LOOKOUT

behind the NATURE BASED ADVENTURE

PARK

MIGRANT AND MILITARY TRAINING

Cowra’s railway

VALLEY

RAILWAY

take in the local arts spaces in town.

DAY 4

VISIT THE VILLAGES

Take a scenic drive to WYANGALA DAM via DARBYS FALLS where you can enjoy a spot of fishing, have a swim, go boating and skiing or enjoy a relaxing picnic at ELLIOTT’S LOOKOUT.

Drive back to Cowra via the beautiful village of WOODSTOCK through the picturesque countryside. Go for a paddle or relax on the banks of the Lachlan River.

Explore historic CARCOAR, the town time forgot, from the impeccably preserved Carcoar Courthouse to the beautiful Carcoar Dam.

to CONIMBLA NATIONAL PARK and take a bush walk along the WALLABY TRAIL. Stop by the friendly village of GOOLOOGONG on your way back to Cowra.

Trek into the countryside and visit the amazing KOORAWATHA FALLS.

a Castle when you drive by IANDRA CASTLE AND MT ORIEL HOMESTEAD on the road to GREENTHORPE.

OUR WARTIME LEGACY

Cowra is steeped in rich history and heritage, from the solemn grounds of the Cowra POW Camp and War Cemeteries, to the uplifting significance of Australia’s World Peace Bell.

THE COWRA BREAKOUT

At 1:50am on the 5th of August 1944, over 1000 Japanese prisoners launched a mass escape from the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp. It was the largest prisoner of war breakout in modern military history. 234 Japanese prisoners and 5 Australian soldiers lost their lives. From this violent beginning, both a journey of reconciliation and a growing friendship have developed between the people of Cowra and the nation of Japan.

PRISONER OF WAR CAMPSITE

The ruins of the Prisoner of War Campsite are still visible to this day, well-placed interpretive signage will help you visualise what once stood in this picturesque part of Cowra. Stand under the replica Guard Tower where a detailed audio presentation will bring the scenery around you to life. Take a stroll down the paths throughout the site to the five panel commemorative sculpture. Walk or cycle through the Garrison Walk, taking you straight to the beautiful Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre.

WAR CEMETERIES

The Cowra Japanese War Cemetery contains the graves of the 234 Japanese soldiers who were killed in the Cowra Breakout as well as all the Japanese Nationals who died on Australian soil during World War II. This is the only Japanese War Cemetery outside of Japan. The Australian War Cemetery adjoins the Japanese War Cemetery and contains graves of the servicemen who died at the Cowra Military Training Camp, as well as the 5 Australian soldiers killed during the 1944 breakout.

INDONESIAN GRAVES

Whilst the story of the Cowra Breakout is relatively well known, it is a little known fact that 1,200 Indonesian internees were held at the Cowra POW Camp during World War II. Two groups were brought to the POW Camp, the first being merchant navy sailors and the second being Nationalists who had been exiled to what is now Irian Jaya (Dutch New Guinea) after they had been involved in the 1926 uprising.

The Dutch Government thought that the Nationalists would link up with the invading Japanese forces and were able to convince the Australian Government to ship the men, women and children to Australia (Cowra) for internment.

The Indonesian Memorial is made up of the graves of 13 Indonesian political detainees who died in the Cowra POW Camp while being held on behalf of the Dutch East Indies Government in the early years of WWII.

In 1997 the Indonesian Government erected a memorial to these people in the General Section of the Cowra Cemetery. It was through Jan Lingard from the School of Asian Studies at the University of Sydney that this hidden story was revealed.

AUSTRALIA’S WORLD PEACE BELL

Made from melted down coins donated by 106 member countries of the United Nations, Australia’s World Peace Bell is a testament to Cowra’s long-standing contribution to world peace and international understanding. Recognised by the World Peace Bell Association in 1992, the bell is proudly housed in Cowra’s Civic Square where visitors can read the interpretive signage, listen to the audio presentation and even ring the bell itself.

EUROPA PARK

From 1940–1945, the Cowra Military Training Camp trained some 80,000 military personnel. In 1949, the site became the Cowra Migrant Camp and was home to about 17,000 European migrants until 1955. Up to 4,000 immigrants could be housed at the camp at one time with as many as 27 nations represented among those who lived there. An estimated total of between 17,000 and 19,000 people passed through the gates of the camp throughout its time of operation.

The camp itself was run like a small town, boasting its own post office, school, canteen and chapel. Many of the men were sent away to work in neighbouring towns for projects such as the railway construction in Orange, constructing dams and working at the Edgell Cannery.

Interpretive signage and a memorial have been erected in honour of the migrant families of Cowra in Europa Park.

COWRA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

The Cowra Visitor Information Centre is an essential first stop for visitors to the Cowra region. Our Centre is your one stop shop for local & regional information, maps, local produce, craft and many varieties of local wine. Why not select a bottle of award-winning wine and some local produce to enjoy during your stay or better still, allow us to customise a hamper of local produce for you to enjoy. Chat to our friendly staff and allow us to help you make the most of your stay in our lovely region.

The Cowra Visitor Information Centre is open from 9am – 5pm / 7 days a week every day of the year (except Christmas Day).

POW HOLOGRAM THEATRE

Located at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre, this 9 minute presentation brings the tragic events of The Cowra Breakout to life through the eyes of Claire, a young Cowra local. The famous POW Hologram Theatre is the best place to start your historical journey through the Cowra region.

COWRA ROSE GARDEN

An initiative of the Cowra Shire Council, the Calleen Trust and Ben Swane in 1998 to celebrate Cowra’s Sesquicentenary, the Cowra Rose Garden was established to mark the 150th anniversary of the official gazetting of the town. The Cowra Rose Garden is at its best between late October and May, but also features beautiful annuals during the winter months. The Cowra Rose is located in the North West corner of the garden.

POW CAMP

Explore the Cowra Peace Precinct, home to the Prisoner of War Camp and stop at the signage dotted around the site. The detailed stories will help to bring the history of the site and its former occupants to life.

Visit the new murals situated on the water tanks and take a stroll down the Garrison Walk.

COWRA JAPANESE GARDEN AND CULTURAL CENTRE

The largest Japanese garden in the Southern Hemisphere, the Cowra Japanese Garden & Cultural Centre is a peaceful space to indulge the senses, unwind and enjoy natural beauty all year round.

DID YOU KNOW?

At the top of the hill in the Garden you will see two very large rocks. The pointed rock is named Shugoseki, or guardian deity. From the base of Shugoseki comes the stream which cascades to the lakes below, symbolising the gift of life, growth and prosperity to Cowra. The flat-topped rock is named Yogoseki, and symbolises the place where the spirits of Australian and Japanese soldiers come to find peace on earth.

Explore 12.5 acres of manicured garden, serene lakes and cascading streams, with intimate views of the surrounding countryside and hills. Designed by acclaimed Japanese landscape architect Ken Nakajima, the garden is in the style of an Edo-period Kaiyu-shiki (strolling) garden. Different areas of the garden represent the varied landscapes of Japan, while also incorporating shakkei (borrowed scenery).

Opened in 1979, the Garden is beautiful during all seasons. In Spring the blossoms come out in a riot of pink; apricot, pear, quince, plum and the everpopular sakura (cherry blossom) emerge one by one. Summer sees the plants in full leaf, a garden of lush greens under the big blue sky. In Autumn the leaves change to spectacular reds, yellows and oranges. Winter is the most serene time of year, when the mists roll in across the lakes and slender branches are showcased across the sky.

The Cultural Centre displays an extensive collection of Japanese artworks and artefacts, including ceramics, textiles, paintings, lacquerware, dolls and toys, screens and woodwork. The raked zen garden can be viewed from the Cultural Centre. The Garden also features a bonsai house, tatami room, bonsho bell, open air tea house, koi lake, lookout, cafe and gift shop. Furry friends on leads are welcome. Take the time to slow down and enjoy this special place of peace and reflection.

THE CENTRE OF JAPANESE CULTURAL HERITAGE IN AUSTRALIA

Open

WYANGALA

REFLECTIONS HOLIDAY PARKS

WYANGALA WATERS

An easy drive from Cowra, Reflections Holiday Parks Wyangala Waters is the ideal place to escape the pressures of the daily grind and ‘get away from it all’. Take the boat out for some water-skiing fun, or sit back and take advantage of Wyangala’s prime fishing spots. Let the kids go wild in the bush; building forts and having adventures or bring along bikes or scooters to ride on the pumptrack. Enjoy the multitude of bushwalking tracks whilst spotting local wildlife along the way. There are plenty of accommodation options too, simply pick your perfect spot on the park’s vast expanse of camping grounds or opt for one of the many cabins, cottages and bungalows available for a fun and comfortable stay. To top it off,

Reflections Holiday Parks Wyangala Waters is dog-friendly for camping and caravanning sites, so you can enjoy the bush experience with your furry friends.

WYANGALA

Wyangala is a small village just below the Wyangala Dam wall, with its claim to fame being the annual Wyangala Bonfire and Fireworks Spectacular, a visual spectacle that brings over 4,000 people to the village each and every year. Sit back and relax at the family friendly Wyangala Country Club, complete with a bistro, tennis court, golf course and bowling green. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, the Wyangala Danglers Fishing Club hosts a multitude of fishing competitions throughout the year, taking full advantage of the vast waters of Wyangala Dam.

Wyangala Country

OUR RAILWAY HERITAGE

LACHLAN VALLEY RAILWAY HERITAGE CENTRE

The Lachlan Valley Railway Heritage Centre is one of Cowra’s best kept secrets. Wander through an extraordinary collection of historic engines, carriages and wagons. You’re welcome to explore the exhibits and enter a number of the carriages on display. The sleeping cars, with their beautifully preserved cedar panelling and original fixtures and fittings, evoke memories of a past era of train travel. The centre is maintained by the Lachlan Valley Railway Society, a not-for-profit organisation tasked with the restoration and preservation of the Cowra roundhouse, historic buildings, gardens, locomotives and more. Guided tours of the centre can be arranged, helping to bring the site to life and highlighting the strong connection between the railway and the people of Cowra.

COWRA RAILWAY STATION

From the moment the first train arrived in 1886 to the last train that left in 2009, the Cowra Railway Station was a major contributor to the flow of passengers and freight accessing the Central West from Sydney and Melbourne. The Station is now heritage listed and is home to local community groups such as the Cowra Antique Vehicle Club who hold open days on the last Sunday of each month.

LVR LOUNGE CAR

Hop aboard the newly refurbished MBV 931 Lounge Car and be transported back in time! Lovingly restored to its original glory, the LVR Lounge Car is the latest addition to Cowra’s versatile function spaces and offers a variety of local wines and specialty beers.

A new and exciting experience for locals and visitors alike, the LVR Lounge Car is open for tea and coffee every third Sunday of the month at the Cowra Railway Station and is available for private bookings.

A unique railway museum featuring an authentic steam era locomotive depot and roundhouse dating om 1923.

A descriptive map and signage allows you to enjoy a self guided tour, or for groups and buses book a tour with one of our enthusiastic guides. This is a working rail depot so don’t hesitate to ask questions of our volunteers. They love talking about their trains. The train line to Holmwood is well under way and will be completed in August 2023.

On the last Sunday of the month Devonshire teas are served at the main Cowra Railway Station in our beautifully restored lounge car. This is also available for private functions, so check it out.

The heritage centre is open 10am to 4pm Thursday to Monday.

Adults $10 00 - Concessions $8 00

Children $6 00 - Family $30 00

Lachlan Valley Railway Heritage Centre

Campbell St. Cowra NSW

(02) 6342 4999 E inquiries@lvr.com.au www.lvr.com.au

COWRA FIELDS OF GOLD

Each year, locals and visitors alike look forward to Spring and the changing of the Cowra landscape as seas of yellow flowers atop of rolling fields bloom.

Take your canola experience to new heights with a hot air balloon flight or scenic flight over the picturesque countryside for the best birds-eye views of the fields of gold.

For your safety, please ensure you drive with care along our roads and highways. Be aware that canola fields are on private property, visitors

are not permitted to enter paddocks. Entering private property without permission is considered trespassing and unsafe.

To see all the amazing things to do in Cowra during canola season, and for tips on how you can enjoy Cowra’s canola safely, visit www.visitcowra.com.au

OF GOLD

ARTS

COWRA REGIONAL ART GALLERY

The Cowra Regional Art Gallery is a welcoming and vibrant public gallery in the heart of Cowra’s cultural and peace precinct together with the Gordon Andrews Fountain, Cowra Library, the Australian Chapter of the World Peace Bell and the Cowra Civic Centre. It offers a diverse and mixed annual program featuring outstanding exhibitions including original contemporary art and craft practices and varied public activities including artist talks and workshops.

The Gallery Shop stocks a range of greeting cards, artbooks and magazines as well as local history publications, and gifts including textiles, ceramics and jewellery.

Gallery admission is free and open hours are Tues to Sat 10am – 4pm, Sun 10am – 2pm. For more What’s On information visit www.cowraartgallery.com.au

COWRA SCULPTURE PARK

The Cowra Sculpture Park (incorporating the John Moon Memorial Rotary Arboretum) was officially opened in June 2021 including the launch of several works donated by Macquarie University. Located opposite the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre the Cowra Sculpture Park features sculptures from both nationally and internationally acclaimed artists, including Phillip King (UK), Jan Shaw (AUST), Geoffrey Ireland (AUST), James Rogers (AUST), Takehiro Terada (JAPAN), Kenichi Hiratsuka (JAPAN) and a collaborative sculpture by Japanese artist Katsuhiro Gotō and Cowra sculptor Ken Hutchinson. New sculptures are being added regularly.

COWRA REGIONAL ART GALLERY

The Cowra Regional Art Gallery presents a changing program of outstanding touring and curated exhibitions across a range of visual art forms and contemporary art and craft practices. Public events and educational activities including openings, artist talks, school visits and workshops are presented throughout the year in association with the exhibition program.

Cowra Regional Art Gallery 77 Darling Street Cowra NSW 2794 Open: Tues-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 10am-2pm Admission free. All welcome. www.cowraartgallery.com.au The Cowra Regional Art Gallery is a cultural facility of the Cowra Shire Council

COWRA CIVIC CENTRE

The Cowra Civic Centre regularly hosts live performances, cinema screenings, civic events, balls and seminars. The centre has two spaces – the main auditorium seating 335 people and the theatrette seating up to 80 people.

Located on Wiradjuri Country in Central West NSW, the Cowra Civic Centre was officially open December 5, 1969. The first performance took place on 18 March, 1970 – a production of Sweeney Todd, a play performed by the Cowra Musical & Dramatic Society as part of the Festival of Lachlan Valley (now known as the Festival of International Understanding).

Since then the venue has gone on to host live performances, civic events, film screenings, balls and even a wrestling match.

MURALS UNDER THE BRIDGE

Take a peek beneath the Lachlan River Bridge to view the impressive murals painted by Aboriginal artist, Kym Freeman and local children. They depict the history of the Wiradjuri people who are the Traditional Owners of this Land.

GLENN MORTON MURALS

Renowned artist Glenn Morton has murals scattered all around the township of Cowra but perhaps the most significant of them all is the mural depicted on the old Australian Corner building that features Cowra’s famous ‘Fields of Gold’.

OLIVE COTTON

Cowra is home to many fantastic artists but perhaps the most famous of them all is renowned Australian photographer Olive Cotton (1911-2003), known for her modernist photographic style. Cotton lived in the Cowra Shire with her second husband Ross McInerney and was a much beloved teacher at Cowra High School. Whilst in Cowra, Cotton took a hiatus from her work until she was able to open a darkroom in 1963 where she specialised in portraiture and local events. Some of Olive Cotton’s works are now held at the Cowra Regional Art Gallery.

DID YOU KNOW?

During October/November the Cowra Regional Art Gallery presents the renowned Calleen Art Award (initiated in 1977 by arts patron Mrs Patrica Fagan OAM), a national acquisitive art prize for painting worth $25,000. For more information and exhibition dates visit www.calleenartaward.com.au

Cowra Civic Centre

Discover an amazing new world Cowra Civic Centre – the local performing arts centre and cinema for the Cowra region.

We host live events including theatre, music, dance, kids shows and special events. We screen new release fi lms, documentaries, live performance on screen, school holidays fi lms, fi lm festivals and world cinema.

We are also home to the Cowra Eisteddfod, local dance schools and the Cowra Musical & Dramatic Society. We present a rolling program, meaning we are announcing new things all the time.

Visit the website, follow us on Facebook or Instagram, and sign up for our Enewsletter to keep up-to-date with what’s on.

We are also a venue for hire for live performances, conferences and special events.

2130 | civiccentre@cowra.nsw.gov.au

Street, Cowra

GREAT OUTDOORS

Relaxing as Cowra can be, sometimes the call for adventure is just too strong to ignore. Never fear, there are plenty of opportunities to walk, run, cycle, fish and camp your way through the region’s many parks, paths and waterways.

CAMPING AND CARAVANING

Cowra welcomes RV travellers and offers plenty of RV parking at major attractions as well as a range of affordable sites and amenities including the Cowra Van Park, Cowra Holiday Park, Cowra Showgrounds and Reflections Holiday Parks Wyangala Waters. There are even free campsites located across the region such as the Edgell Park Rest Area in Cowra and the Gooloogong Caravan Park (by donation). For more information on RV-Friendly Cowra give the Cowra Visitor Information Centre a call on 02 6342 4333 or visit www.visitcowra.com.au.

THE LACHLAN RIVER (BILA GALARI)

The Lachlan River runs from Wyangala Dam to Cowra, through the fertile Lachlan Valley, downstream to Forbes. This magnificent river is the perfect setting for canoeing, fishing, camping and more! For up-to-date information about the Lachlan River, including safe entry, parking and river levels visit www.waterwaysguide.org.au.

BUSHWALKING AND NATIONAL PARKS

A short drive from Cowra and Grenfell, Conimbla National Park is a quiet, tranquil nature reserve where you can enjoy easy, peaceful bushwalks amid rugged hills and farming country.

Conimbla National Park is part of the Lachlan Fold Belt. Discover the hidden treasures of this peaceful, beautiful place, an oasis in a region dominated by agriculture.

A great base for exploring is the Wallaby Picnic Area in the eastern section. There are picnic tables, campfire rings, a toilet and camping is permitted.

Info: sourced: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

Located just 20 minutes from Cowra, visit the Koorawatha Nature Reserve, home to the famous Koorawatha Falls and Weir. The weir was built across the Bang Bang Creek in 1913 to supply water to the railway.

Continue past the weir to find Koorawatha Falls, located about 7km from the highway. Please note that the Falls are only accessible with extreme care along an uneven dirt track and by 4WD vehicles only. The falls are at their best and most visible after rainfall.

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the rushing of water as you sit by the water’s edge or walk back to the 4WD area where there are BBQ and picnic tables you can sit at.

PLAY

With lots of outdoor experiences on offer, Cowra is the perfect family friendly destination. Cowra is spoilt for choice when it comes to play areas with options such as the Nature Based Adventure Playground, River Park, Broughman Park and Saburo Nagakura Park to choose from.

For those wanting to explore more, Europa Park has an excellent walking and bike track, the Cowra Skate Park is sure to please all thrill seekers, and for the furry friends of the family, Bill Robertson Park is an excellent enclosed haven for your pets to roam about.

WALKING AND CYCLING

Cowra offers some of the quietest, smoothest and most scenic roads in New South Wales.

The Cowra Peace Precinct hosts a network of interconnecting concrete paths where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Walk or cycle to the Bellevue Hill Lookout, the Japanese Garden and the historic Prisoner of War Campsite. Take a stroll back in time and discover the history behind Cowra’s most historic buildings with the Cowra Heritage Walk (brochure available at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre). If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, the incredible Wyangala Dam has some great mountain bike trails and natural rest spots, perfect for a picnic, photo opportunity or a well deserved breather. To view or download a copy of the Cowra Rides Guide, go to www.visitcowra.com.au/cycling. For more information about cycling in and around Canowindra, go to www.cyclingcanowindra.com.au.

Ideal Tours Cowra

TOURS

Travel in comfort with a guided tour of our beautiful region, taste the local wine, meet the producers, learn about our history, and experience the spectacular seasonal views that the region has to offer. No

what you’re looking for, there’s a tour for you.

COWRA CANOLA TOURS

Spring approaches, Cowra’s landscape

glowing bright with beautiful fields

year

popular Cowra Canola

spectacular views of Cowra’s Canola Region. Tours run throughout September and early October, subject to crop availability.

COWRA WINE & FORAGE TOURS

The Cowra Wine & Forage Tours offer visitors the chance to enjoy the delicious food and wine of the Cowra and Canowindra region whilst meeting the makers at the farm gates and cellar doors along the way.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information on guided tours in the Cowra Region contact the Cowra Visitor Information Centre on 02 6342 4333 or visit

Cowra Bus Service

DINING

Breakout Brasserie

Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant

Cowra Golf Club

Cowra Bowling Club

Cafe Ruze

■ Locally owned cafe situated at the rear of Logan Court Arcade with plenty of parking close by in Kendal Street or Coles carpark

■ Extensive menu – cakes, fresh sandwiches and wraps plus a great selection of burgers, salads and meals

■ Serving breakfast, lunch and morning/afternoon tea – dine-in or takeaway available

■ Gluten-free meals available

■ Pet-friendly outdoor seating area

■ Variety of cold drinks including soft drinks, frappes, milkshakes along with all your favourite hot drinks from great locally roasted coffee and fresh leaf teas to your creamy hot chocolates with marshmallows

■ FREE Wi-Fi available for customers

02 6341 2334 | caferuze@bigpond.com

www.facebook.com/caferuze

Shop 1, Logan Court, 91 Kendal Street, Cowra

The Quarry Restaurant and Cellar Door

Nestled amongst the gum trees and surrounded by vineyards is The Quarry Restaurant, a fi ne dining restaurant 5 minutes out of the Cowra CBD. Kate, owner and front of house, was recently recognised as a fi nalist in the NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards 2022 for the fabulous wine list showcasing some of the Cowra, Young and Orange Wine Regions’ best wines.

This is truly one of the best fi ne dining experiences in the Region. Head Chef Pat Johnson uses the best local and regional produce, freshly cooked with French and Asian influences to tantalise the palate. Come and enjoy a meal or a glass of wine with friends or purchase your favourite wine from our cellar door.

Opening Hours: Lunch Thursday – Sunday | Dinner Friday & Saturday

Imperial Hotel

Old world charm with country hospitality

Located in the main street of Cowra, The Imperial offers a complete package to the weary traveller.

Ample off street parking is provided. Accommodation is available, providing spacious and pleasant ensuite rooms as well as rooms with shared bathroom facilities that are affordably priced. We cater for both the individual traveller as well as families.

The Imperial’s reputation is based on providing an amazing dining experience. The restaurant is air conditioned with full table service and is positioned separately to be more intimate. The remainder of the ground fl oor provides relaxed bistro dining. A beer garden area is available at the rear of the building.

So whether you just pop in for a drink, grab some lunch, enjoy our dinner service or stay with us for a few days, we hope to see you at The Impy!

02 6341 2588 | theimperialhotelcowra@outlook.com www.facebook.com/impycowra 16-18 Kendal Street, Cowra

0425 189

|

Lachlan Valley Way, Cowra

Railway Hotel Cowra

The Railway Hotel Cowra is a historic family-friendly pub located on Cowra’s main street. The pub provides great beer and freshly prepared meals using as much local and regional produce as we can get! We are stocking some of the region’s best wines from Cowra, Young and Orange and if you forget to pick up the wine for dinner, call in and pick up a bottle or two.

The pub has a great outdoor space for functions and celebrations, and is free to hire.

Planning a wedding or a party and need a beautiful car? We have a 1966 Ford Galaxie convertible for hire with a driver so that you can get to your event in sophistication and style.

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 10am – 12am Bistro 7 days a week | Lunch 12 – 2pm & Dinner 6 – 8pm

02 6305 7434 | hotel@railwayhc.com

www.railwayhc.com

Kendal Street, Cowra

RETAIL

Shopping in Cowra is as it should be – relaxed and easy, with plenty of parking. Cowra boasts a variety of retail options to choose from, all with a unique country style and friendly service.

Bushmans Boots and All

Since 1991, we have focused on providing well-known and loved labels to our country clientele.

Catering to the whole family with brands such as R.M.Williams and Thomas Cook which has mens, womens and childrens sizes.

Bushmans Boots and All stock a wide variety from clothing to boots, handbags, jewellery, watches, scarves, wallets, Akubra hats, sunglasses, travel bags and more.

02 63 411 299 | sales@bushmansboots.com www.bushmansboots.com

52 Kendal Street, Cowra

Kendal Street Newsagency

local family owned newsagency

friendly service & quality products.

cards, stationery & NSW Lotteries along with a vast array of gifts, toys, puzzles & confectionery.

for everyone & every occasion.

02 6342 1341 | jd@kendalnews.com.au www.facebook.com/kendalstnewsagency 65 Kendal Street, Cowra

Superb Jewellery

owned business

Street, Cowra

Terran Grove Olives

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

from our family farm, located in the Bumbaldry Hills near Cowra NSW, our oil has a

flavour.

at

| terranoil@bigpond.com

West Rd, Bumbaldry NSW & Silverdale

and

Tony Mooney Collectables

Kous

Your one stop destination for everyday smart/casual fashion and accessories

Kous in Cowra stocks all of your favourite labels such as Elm, Eb & Ive, Haven Co, Isle of Mine, Jovie the Label, Stella & Gemma, PQ Collection, Freez, Bare Leather and accessories.

Every person deserves to enjoy looking stylish and feeling great.

0477 243 104 | kous@outlook.com.au www.kous.com.au Shop 7/103 Kendal Street, Cowra

WINE REGION

The Cowra Wine Region is home to some

the most exceptional wine tasting

and wineries in NSW.

Antonio’s Wines

Simply created for maximum pleasure The wines are authentic, varietal, well balanced and offer moreish mouth feel. I feel it important to continue to develop and evolve my wine styles

match those that enjoy my wines and the modern Australian taste.

the moment these are Australian wines that are fruit driven and soft with quality never comprised.

Our boutique wine region is renowned for producing awardwinning wines with a strong leaning towards organic practices.

warm days, cool nights, and dry, late Summers, our vignerons are able to grow superior grape varieties. Combine this with our producers’ passion for perfection and you have the recipe for some of the most outstanding wines in Australia.

The Cowra Visitor Information Centre stocks an extensive range of Cowra Region wines. Visitors can browse over 40 varieties of wines from across our region. Let our friendly team guide you through our range and help customise a cellar door trail where you can meet the wine makers whilst sampling our award-winning wines.

Kalari Wines

Boutique vineyard on the banks of the Lachlan River at Cowra Cowra’s Premium Kalari Wines are on offer for tasting and sales at the Cowra Tourist Information Centre and the Quarry Restaurant & Cellar Door.

vines were planted in 1995 and produce quality grapes with intense flavours, and accordingly, our wines were awarded Bronze, Silver and Gold medals at the recent Wine Shows.

Rosnay Organic

The Statham family planted the Rosnay vineyard, olives and fi gs over 20 years ago. Simply call in advance to book a wine tasting, a winery tour, a farm tour or a simple visit to the farm shop and cellar door.

The wines are all grown, made and bottled on site and the farm is Cowra’s oldest organic farm, winner of the NSW DPI’s Organic Pioneer’s Award in 2012.

The original part of the historic homestead is available for Farmstay accommodation and a secluded waterside area in the olive grove has been set up for exclusive glamping or for picnics.

Rosnay is located 32km from Cowra and 8km from Canowindra and has some lovely cycling roads.

A new tasting room and function centre is due to be opened in October 2022 and will open Friday to Sunday 10am to 4pm.

317 |

Rivers Road, Canowindra

Wallington Wines

Wallington Wines is an Organic and Biodynamic family farm producing grapes and olives just outside Canowindra. The unique Straw Bale winery is open by appointment for tours and wine tastings with the owner. Book ahead for grazing plates. It is also the perfect place to celebrate your special day with options for both your ceremony and reception.

a friend of Wallington by joining our Wine Wally Club to keep up to date with what’s going on and be the fi rst to know about our special deals.

■ Open by appointment

Wedding venue

Wine tours and tasting

Grazing plates

Function venue

936 054 | 02 6344 7153 | info@wallingtonwines.com.au

Lawrences Road, Nyrang Creek

AGRITOURISM

GLEN DONALD ESTATE

Boasting produce that is ethically farmed and treated with the utmost care, ‘Producers of Excellence’ Glen Donald Estate features a fantastic range of lovingly made oil, vinegar and honey.

The Glen Donald Olive Grove is located in the historic village of Bumbaldry in the Central West farming region of NSW. The unique ecosystem formed at the base of the Yambira Mountain Range creates the perfect environment for the olives to thrive.

Continuing to attract nationwide attention, Glen Donald Estate hosts open days on select long weekends for visitors to see firsthand how their produce starts from paddock to plate.

DCS MADRA COUNTRY ACCOMMODATION

Looking for an idyllic stay in Country NSW?

Located just 15 minutes outside of Cowra, DCs Madra Country Accommodation is situated on a small, working hobby farm that specialises in sheep and livestock management.

Visitors are welcome to experience life on a farm with regular demonstrations of working Border Collies and obedience training workshops.

Offering a comfortable and relaxing stay on site, experience all of the country charm this farmstay has to offer.

Glen Donald Estate

Glen Donald Estate is located in the historic village of Bumbaldry in the Central West farming region of NSW. The unique ecosystem formed at the base of the Yambira Mountain Range creates the perfect environment for our produce to thrive.

We choose to farm ethically. That means we make ethical choices to use as little chemicals as possible and maximise mother nature’s help and support. We want to do the right thing by our farm, our community and our customers.

Farm Experience

Available Friday, Saturday and Sundays (Weekday visits can be arranged with advanced notice)

Come experience our farm and enjoy our award winning olive oil, olives, vinegar, honey and seasonal produce. Meet our gorgeous farm animals, alpacas, cows, goats and more.

You may also like to try our delicious wood-fire pizzas or homemade scones.

The Glen Donald Team are excited and waiting to share our farm with you.

Contact us for a booking on 0418471066 or email natalie@glendonald.com.au. Entry fee may apply.

SHOWS/ FAIRS

COWRA SPRING SHOW

COWRA COMMUNITY MARKETS

MARKETS

THE PALMS MARKET

KOORAWATHA

Breakout Motel

four star accredited

first class country style

short

to

Street,

of

The motel consists of 16 rooms, six standard, ve deluxe, two executive king rooms, two 2-bedroom units; and one wheelchair friendly room. All rooms have whisper quiet Panasonic and Daiken reverse cycle air-conditioning, electric blankets, tea/ co ee making facilities, Foxtel with over 80 channels and 1000 movies on demand, refrigerator, microwave, complimentary wireless broadband and ironing equipment. All rooms are also non-smoking, however ashtrays have been provided in convenient locations outdoors. The deluxe units, set well back from the road, are elevated, very spacious and open onto a large balcony o ering picturesque rural views. The bedrooms have queen size beds and a king single bed, all with 42” plasma TVs, electric blankets, table, chairs and a sofa. The comfortable standard rooms have a queen size bed or a double and a king single bed, all with 26” digital LCD TVs and electric blankets.

of our sixteen rooms have undercover vehicle parking and is perfect for car and motorcycle club activities. Extra parking is also available for trailers and large vehicles.

Aalana Motor Inn

6341 1177 | info@aalanamotorinn.com.au

Kendal Street, Cowra

Cowra Crest Motel

Centrally located in Kendal Street

Crest is a quiet, comfortable

Family owned and operated

equipped

and

Supermarket,

(microwave/kettle/toaster/crockery/

Civic Motor Inn

Your one-stop destination for quality hotel accommodations in Cowra The Civic Motor Inn is set on four acres of landscaped gardens, located off the highway in a quiet location.

■ Newly refurbished rooms and grounds offering ensuite rooms overlooking the picturesque Cowra Golf Course

■ Standard, family and interconnecting suites for nightly or weekly reservations

■ Group bookings available with parking facilities for tour buses/coaches

■ Saltwater swimming pool and BBQ/outdoor area

■ Free Wi-Fi throughout the property

■ Long stay options available at a discounted rate

■ Stay NSW Vouchers accepted for direct bookings

■ Located 200 metres from McDonald’s and the Cowra Visitor Information Centre

02 6341 1753 | civicmotorinn@bigpond.com www.seranin.com.au/civic-motor-inn Olympic Highway (Young Road), Cowra

6342 2799 | thecrest@bigpond.net.au www.cowracrestmotel.com.au

Kendal Street, Cowra

Cowra Holiday Park

Located in a rural setting 5 minutes east of the Cowra town centre, Cowra Holiday Park is the perfect location for a weekend away, an overnight stop on your travels, or a family holiday.

The rustic, pet friendly park caters for caravans, motorhomes, buses and campers with large drive-through, powered and ensuite sites (all with sullage) as well as unpowered sites.

The park features an undercover heated pool, large clean amenities (including accessible bathroom) with plenty of hot showers, dump point, coin-operated laundry and our classic ‘Goods Shed’ free barbeque area (with fi replace in winter months), perfect for a chat with fellow guests at the end of the day.

For those seeking fully self-contained accommodation, the park offers a range of cabins (linen included – some can sleep 8) all with AC plus full kitchen and ensuite, and a bunkhouse too!

02 6342 2666 | info@cowraholidaypark.com.au www.cowraholidaypark.com.au 10256 Mid-Western H’way (Sydney Rd) (park entry off Elouera Road), Cowra

Cowra Motor Inn

Vineyard Motel

you have experienced a slice of country life why not make a move

buy a piece of it?

friendly team at Raine & Horne Cowra offer the best local rural and residential property sales

The Shearing Shed Cowra

Boutique Farmstay

of

CANOWINDRA

CANOWINDRA

Take a step back in time with Canowindra’s historic main street and its beautifully restored buildings, shops, guesthouses, cafes and country pubs. At the end of the main street you will find the intriguing Age of Fishes Museum, home to an incredible collection of 360-million-year-old fish fossils presented with brilliant and engaging hands-on exhibits.

For visitors who enjoy a flight of fancy, Canowindra is often referred to as the Ballooning

Capital of Australia. For years, hot air balloon enthusiasts have found the climate and typography, not to mention the scenery of Canowindra, perfect for ballooning. Every year over ten thousand visitors flock to Canowindra to witness the spectacle that is the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge. Dozens of pilots take to the skies, competing in a myriad of different tasks, culminating in the popular Balloon Glow and Night Market where balloons light up the night sky in a visual spectacle that has to be seen to be believed.

Balloon Joy Flights

Perennialle Plants

Situated in a beautifully restored heritage building on Canowindra’s historic main street, Perennialle Plants is a destination worth visiting. The building houses an extensive emporium offering a carefully curated selection of some of the fi nest products on the market, including garden tools, giftware, homewares and an enviable selection of local and regional produce.

Our cafe offers the fi nest coffee, perfectly complemented with delicious pastries and other treats.

The nursery stocks plants grown by us from our unique collection of rare, frost and dry tolerant plants. The plants are perfectly acclimatised to the local area and are suited to most climates. If you fi nd something you like, but can’t carry it home, we can easily post it to you with our experienced mail order service. We post orders received through our website a few times per week.

0427 077 798 | plants@perennialle.com.au www.perennialle.com.au 29 Gaskill Street, Canowindra

CANOWINDRA

COMERFORD

DISCLAIMER

Information

Every endeavour has been made to

of

in this

as of September

Cowra Tourism Corporation, their employees, contractors and agents cannot be held responsible for any consequences resulting from the use of the information and images or errors contained herein. All images are copyright of their respective owners and may not be used in any form without appropriate permission.

Above

- www.overandabovephotography.com

POW Hologram Theatre

Cowra Rose Garden

Lone Pine Park

Aboriginal Bridge Murals

Australia's World Peace Bell

Cowra Regional Art Gallery

Japanese Garden & Cultural Centre

Cowra Sculpture Park

Bellevue Hill Lookout

Garrison Gates

POW Campsite

Garrison Walk

STREET INDEX

Acacia Cct F3 Airport Rd A8 Allambie Pl F4 Amaroo Ave G4 Amie St H6 Argoon St F8 Back St D9 Banksia Cl G3 Baronga St F8 Bartlett Ave F7 Belmore St E5 Berowra St G5 Binni Creek Rd G3 Binni St H6

Bligh St F5 Boundary Rd A9 Bourke St D4 Bramall St D7 Brisbane Ave F9 Brisbane St F7

Brougham St F7 Bulkhead Rd C9 Burgundy St E3 Busby Pl F7

Calare St A8

Callistemon Cl F3 Campbell St G7 Canowindra Rd F2 Carleton St G6 Chapman St F9 Comerford St F4 Commelia Rd C6 Coota St E6 Cooyal St D4 Courallie St F8 Cowra Rd A6 Daly St E6

Darbys Falls Rd G8 Darling St F8 Darling St F8 Dawson Dr D10 Day St H6 Denman St G7 Doncaster Dr E1;F1 Dowell St F3

Duffey Ave E4 Dungaleer St F8 Dungowan St F9 Echuca Pl F4 Elizabeth Ave G3 Eucalypt Cl F3

Eulo St F9

Evans St F3

Farrer St E4

First St D9

Fishburn St C9

War Cemeteries

Cowra Services Club

Cowra Bowling Club

Cowra Golf Club

Cowra Aquatic Centre

Lachlan Valley Heritage Railway

Italian Friendship Monument

Europa Park

Cowra Railway Station

Cowra Van Park

24hr free camp & EV charge

POW Electrical Hut

Fitzroy Ave G9

Fitzroy St G8

Flint St F4

Front St D9

Glenlogan Rd C3

Gower Hardy Cct F2

Grenfell Road C7

Guards Pl G2

Haig St D7

Hanna St F5

Hartley St C8

Hassan St C7 Henderson St F6

Hermitage St E3 Hood St D4

Ina Dr G6

Jindalee Cct E4

Kanangra St G3

Karinya St G5

Kendal St F7

Keswick St E6

Kibbler St F5 Killara Rd A6 Kite St E5

Kollas Dr D8

Kooralla Walk F4

Lachlan Ave B5

Lachlan St F5,6

Lachlan Valley Way D10

Lee St E5

Legh St D8

Len Whiteley Dr G5

Lentara St G4

Liverpool St E6;G6

Logan St E4

London Dr G3

Lowan Pl E4

Lowe Ln C4

Lyall St B7

Lynch St G7

Macassar St E5

Macquarie St F7

Main St H6

Mary Rd C10

Mees St D8

Melaleuca Cct F3

Mid Western Hwy A7

Middle St D9

Mirage Dr C7 Morilla St E4

Mulyan St D4

Myall St E5

Nambucca Cct F4

Nangar St D4

Neila St F8

Nelson St F5

Newcombe St F5

North Logan Rd A2

North St H6

Olympic Hwy B10

Pack St H6

Paris Pl G3

Parkes St F8

Phillips St F6

Pinot St E3

Pitt St F5

Pridham St D3 Railway Ln F7 Railway St G7

Ranken St C8

Redfern St E5

Ribands Way C6 River Park Rd B6,8 River St E6

Saje Ct F6

Sakura Ave G5

Saleyard Rd B10

Scenic Dr G5

Scenic Dr F6

Seoul St G4

Service Rd B10

Sheahan St E5

Shelley St D7

Shepherd Ave F2

Shiraz St E3

Short St H6 Showground Ln D6 Side St D9

Sidlowe Pl E4

Silo Rd D9

Sloane St H6

Smith St E6

Stewart St D5

Taragala St F9

Taronga Dr F3

Thomas St F9

Tokyo Tce G4

Vaux St F7;G7

Victor St E5

Vineyard Dr E3

Wahroonga St F4

Walker St C7

Waratah St A8;D8

Watt St E5

Waugoola St E5

Wellington St E5

Whitby St F9

William St D8

Wollowra St E4

Yaldara Cr F4

Yarrabilly Dr G5

Young Rd C8