Grenfell Visitor Guide

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Birthplace of Henry Lawson Caragabal

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Greenethorpe

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The Grenfell Visitor Guide was produced by Interactivink (www.interactivink.com.au) in conjunction with Weddin Shire Council. Photography courtesy of Five Hours West.

Grenfell is a quintessential, Australian town offering the visitor an authentic, country experience.

Grenfell is a leisurely half day drive from Sydney or two and a half hours’ drive from Canberra.

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GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

Get away from it all in Grenfell

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renfell celebrates its important place in Australia’s gold mining history. The town was built on gold when the mineral was first discovered in 1866. Subsequent to this gold rush one of Australia’s best-known writers and poet, Henry Lawson, was born on the Grenfell gold fields in 1867.

This golden history is evident as you wander Grenfell’s sun-steeped heritage streetscapes and visit some of Australia’s most fitting tributes to Henry Lawson, but that’s only scratching the surface of what Grenfell offers with beautiful boutique shopping, a majestic Main Street, mystery of the Weddin Mountains and the charm of the surrounding villages.

Immersed with history, each building has a story to tell and Grenfell’s proud local characters willingly share what the town means to them and what makes Grenfell great.

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Nature

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njoy nature-based experiences on offer at Grenfell. Discover another world and step back in time as you view rich farm landscapes of flowering canola with sheep and cattle grazing in picture postcard settings. Immerse yourself in the history of each area and learn how the past shaped the town we see today.

Enliven your senses and take a stroll throughout Company Dam, demonstrating the unique flora that can be found within the shire.

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GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

THE WEDDIN MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK The Weddin Mountains are as much mystery as they are majestic. Sitting just 18km south-west of Grenfell and rising 400m above surrounding farm land with unparalleled views, watch the colours change and features gradually come into focus as you approach the Weddin Mountains. The word ‘Weddin’ is thought to be derived from the Aboriginal word meaning to stop or remain and the Weddin Mountains are the perfect place to pull up stumps at one

of a variety of camp grounds, take in the fresh air and crisp sounds, wide open spaces and starry night sky as the glow of a million or so candescent stars slowly emerge. For campers and day trippers alike, the park offers a range of activities, from bush walking, bird watching, camping or picnicking and more. Ensure you visit Ben Hall’s Cave and Seaton’s Farm; an iconic historical location depicting the lifestyle of the region’s pioneers.

OCHRE ARCH FARM TOURS Owner hosted customised tours of Ochre Arch farm, 20 minutes northwest of Grenfell.

3 hour tours run twice daily (7 days) at 9am and 2pm including delicious morning or afternoon teas.

Ring or email to book.

Features include sheep, cattle, wildlife and native bushland, sustainable land management, off-grid power supply, panoramic views, Aboriginal ochre quarry and artefacts, open space and relaxed atmosphere.

“Ochre Arch”, 761 Goodes Lane, Pinnacle P: 0425 760 596 E: info@ochrearch.com.au www.ochrearch.com.au | www.facebook.com/ochrearch 5

Henry Lawson

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enry Lawson, one of Australia’s best loved short story and verse writers, was born on the Grenfell gold fields in 1867. His name is recognised with pride by every local.

Henry Lawson is remembered in various ways: the local high school is named after him, several monuments share his likeness and our annual arts festival bares his moniker.

Lawson faced many hardships throughout his life.

He was born during a storm in a rough canvas

tent on his parent’s gold claim. In his early school days Henry was bullied and in his adult life he struggled with deafness. Through his passion for poetry and writing Henry persisted and eventually gained the recognition he has today. He moved around and lived in various towns but knew he was born in Grenfell. One of his poems Said Grenfell to My Spirit reflected on Grenfell as the town where he was born, but which he never visited as an adult.

To commemorate Henry Lawson’s birth and his contribution to the arts, Grenfell hosts the annual Henry Lawson Festival on the June long weekend. The festival promotes and recognises aspiring Australians in their artistic endeavours.

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GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

Heritage & Culture

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renfell is immersed in heritage and culture. There is an art gallery, with exhibitions revolving every six weeks, showcasing local and regional artists across a variety of media.

The Grenfell curtain is on permanent display in the Grenfell Art Gallery depicting the rich history and development of the town. The curtain is 14 feet tall and 28 feet wide and reveals intricate hand stitched details. Grenfell has a number of cultural

GRENFELL ART GALLERY Regular exhibitions changing every 6 weeks that feature local and regional artists with a large range of mediums.

Also home to the 14ft high Community Curtain.

Open: Mon to Fri 10am–4pm; Sat 10am– 3pm; Sun 10am–2pm.

88 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 2059 E: gallery@grenfell.org.au www.grenfell.org.au/artgallery

influences, from the public art in Forbes Street and Main Street to the Henry Lawson Festival bronze plaques embedded in Main Street footpaths. Listen to some Lawson poetry at the Main Street bust, or come to Grenfell on the June long weekend for the Henry Lawson Festival, for four days of cultural immersion.

George Street and Main Street offer some terrific examples of heritage architecture showing the evolution of the business district during times of boom and bust.

GRENFELL MUSEUM Historic Displays and Local Personalities.

Family research undertaken.

Open: ■ 2pm–4pm Sat & Sun ■ 9am–11am Mon

Camp Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 2059 for A/H appointments Voicemail: 02 6343 1930 E: grenfellmuseum@yahoo.com.au 7

T&T CAKES AND PASTRIES

Eating Out

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renfell offers a great selection of dining options which cater to a diverse range of tastes.

Whether you desire a hearty meal from a country pub, club or restaurant or a simple yet satisfying snack from one of our bakeries, cafes, takeaways or diners, you are sure to find something to suit. A full list of food and dining out options are available at www.grenfell.org.au/ dining-out.

Daily fresh food including: Sandwiches, Chicken/ Pork Rolls, Hot Pies, Cakes and Coffee.

Open 7 days – Try some of our Asian cuisines along with our breakfast menu!

■ Mon–Fri 6am–6pm | Sat 6am–4pm | Sun 6am–3pm

101 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1499

HILLTOPS REGION The Hilltops Region, to the south of Grenfell, yields some of Australia’s finest food and wine.

Through wide open country and intimate valleys, our towns and villages offer the visitor heritage buildings, a varied retail experience for shopping enthusiasts and award winning coffee. The thriving towns of Young, Boorowa and Harden, and our quaint villages, tell distinctive Australian histories. Orchards, vineyards, olive groves and mustard producers mean the Hilltops Region has culinary delights to tantalise every tastebud.

Young Visitor Information Centre, Young P: 02 6382 3394 www.visithilltopsregion.com.au | www.facebook.com/ HilltopsRegion

MAWHOOD’S IGA LIQUOR GRENFELL Open 7 days 7.30am – 7.30pm ■ Fresh Fruit & Veg ■ Meat & Deli ■ Liquor ■ Friendly Service ■ Large Range of Groceries ■ Hundreds of Weekly Specials

110 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1611 F: 02 6343 1816 E: igagrenfell@gmail.com 8

GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

Activities & Attractions

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en Hall’s Cave and Seaton’s Farm are located in the Weddin Mountains National Park, 30 minutes west of Grenfell.

Grenfell is unique in that a considerable proportion of the district is timbered, forestwoodland, an ideal location for bird watching on our 12 signposted Bird Trails.

The Chrysler Car Museum is worth a visit for any motoring enthusiast. Cars on display span the years from 1930 to the present day, including a Valiant Charger. Phone 0427 926 246.

Located near O’Brien’s Hill the Endemic Garden features plants native to the Grenfell area.

Bronze plaques honouring each official guest to ever open a Henry Lawson Festival are set in Main Street footpaths and comprise the Festival Walk of Fame.

The Grenfell Art Gallery has exhibitions by local and regional artists and permanently displays the community curtain.

The Grenfell Historic Museum holds extensive collections of local historical records, maps, photographs and household items. Your first port of call for family history research.

Phone 6343 1930.

The birth site of Australian poet Henry Lawson is a two minute drive from the town centre. Push the button on the Main Street bust and listen to some of Lawson’s most famous poems. An interactive statue of Lawson is on the corner of Main and Forbes Streets.

The restored Railway Station precinct is a site of state heritage significance.

Admire the historic buildings on Main Street and George Street.

Iandra Castle is a large heritage-listed homestead located just south of Greenethorpe with open days held throughout the year. Phone 0429 455 409.

O’Brien’s Hill is easily accessible with car parking, picnic facilities and toilets and remnant mining machinery including a horse works, stamper, air shafts and poppet head. Part of the Gold Trails.

If you have a few hours to spare and want to experience the countryside, a guided educational tour of Ochre Arch farm is a must.

Phone 0425 760 596.

Patina Gallery Grenfell is owned by artist Kathleen Scott McCue and exhibits artwork of native fauna and flora. Phone 0419 149 372.

The Big Gold Pick & Pan in West Street were constructed under the supervision of the Grenfell Men’s Shed, in recognition of Grenfell’s contribution to the Australian gold era.

Grenfell provides perfect dark skies suitable for spectacular night viewing. A new moon is the best time to watch stars and to see the spectacular Milky Way. Wallangreen Sculpture Garden features over 100 steel sculptures, both thought provoking and fun, made from recycled farm machinery.

Phone 0427 317 902.

For more information on activities and attractions in Grenfell visit www.grenfell.org.au/attractions.

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Accommodation

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renfell is the perfect place to base your adventures in Central NSW. If you are planning on staying in Grenfell for one of our local events such as the Henry Lawson Festival we recommend you plan ahead as accommodation often books out early for major events.

Grenfell and the surrounding villages offer a range of accommodation options including B&Bs and self-contained accommodation, motel, hotels, cabins, the caravan park and free

camping at selected sites throughout the shire.

For a complete list visit www.grenfell.org.au/ accommodation.

All of our accommodation providers offer something slightly different; whether it’s a home cooked breakfast, a large property to cater for a family group, pet friendly or a luxury experience with bubbles on arrival, Grenfell has something to suit your needs. Contact the Visitor Information Centre on 02 6343 2059 for help with your exact accommodation requirements.

THE CALICO DUCK B&B

Specialising in delicious home cooked breakfasts.

GRENFELL CARAVAN PARK

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62 East Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1402 or 0401 165 701 E: calicoduck@optusnet.com.au www.go.grenfell.org.au/thecalicoduck

Ensuite cabins, 22 van sites, shady grass areas, clean amenities and laundry Walking distance to Main Street Grenfell is an RV Friendly town and selected shops deliver to the caravan park

10 Grafton Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1194 E: caravanpark@grenfell.org.au www.grenfellcaravanpark.com.au

GRENFELL HALL Enjoy hosted accommodation in the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era in this Victorian Mansion, where a warm welcome and old fashion courtesy awaits you.

■ Walking distance to Grenfell’s Historic Main Street, restaurants, cafes, hotels and boutique shops ■ Features include: 4 Double rooms (Queen size beds) each with their own designated facilities

5–7 Weddin Street, Grenfell P: 0417 200 542 www.grenfell.org.au/accommodation | www.facebook.com/grenfell.hall 10

GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

GRENFELL MOTEL Located centrally in the Main Street of town with friendly hosts and great service.

Queen and double rooms featuring television and air conditioning. Your home away from home.

84 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1333 F: 02 6343 1889

JAMES COTTAGE

NUMBER EIGHT QUALITY ACCOMMODATION

James Cottage is a 3 bedroom self-contained cottage set amongst a cottage garden in walking distance to Grenfell’s Main Street.

Located in the heart of Grenfell’s CBD, Number Eight – Quality Accommodation offers self-contained apartment style accommodation with modern interiors, tastefully appointed rooms and all comforts for a relaxing stay.

18 Wood Street, Grenfell P: 02 6347 5244 or 0427 475 244 E: jenny.mcnickle@outlook.com

8 Forbes Street, Grenfell M: 0428 748 540 E: number8@grenfell.org.au www.grenfell.org.au/number8

STRAYLEAVES

THORNBURY FARM B&B

Strayleaves offers elegant self-contained accommodation: ■ 4 double bedrooms ■ 2 bathrooms ■ Indoor and outdoor living areas ■ Ideal for family groups

12 Weddin Street, Grenfell P: 0488 685 288 E: Pamlivingstone634@gmail.com

Self-contained tranquil B&B in historic homestead.

Queen bed, aircon, Wi-Fi, TV, pool, BBQ. Starry skies, native birds, kangaroos and friendly farm animals.

380 Gerrybang Road, Grenfell P: 02 6343 7196 or 0400 674 466 E: thornburyfarm@optusnet.com.au

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Villages

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renfell is more than a one stop destination.

Jump in your car and spend the day exploring the picturesque back roads.

Grenfell is surrounded by open grazing land and paddocks saturated in colour, providing the perfect backdrop for a country drive.

C AR AGABAL Caragabal is a charming rural village located about half way between Grenfell and West Wyalong on the Mid-Western Highway. If you’re passing through, there’s a free camping area with toilets and shade, and a friendly pub offering lunch and dinner 7 days a week. If you are after some quintessential country experiences, come along to the annual Caragabal Sheep Races held on the 2nd Saturday of September or the Camp-oven cook-off hosted on the Sunday of every June long weekend. Both events have free camping and are not to be missed.

GREENETHORPE Named for George Henry Greene, Greenethorpe was created in 1908 to house the workers from his nearby property Iandra, and is known as the birthplace of share farming in Australia. The village contains the Soldiers’ Memorial Hall, the hub of the community; a Primary School; the historic Shamrock Hotel; and a Post Office and Cafe. The Hall houses Honour Rolls for those from the district who served in World Wars I & II. The surrounding farms grow crops such as wheat and canola. In springtime, the gently rolling hills covered with canola flowers are a beautiful sight for visitors.

QUANDIALL A Quandialla is a small village situated close to the Weddin Mountains. It has rich farming and railway history and is distinguished by grain silos, the railway line and an historic main street. If the main street appears familiar, perhaps it is because parts of the Australian mini-series “1915” were filmed here. Stop for the night, a coffee, cold beer, meal or snack and spend time exploring this natural treasure. Visit soon and enjoy a road less travelled.

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GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

The shire features three village communities that each offer visitors a unique experience.

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SHOPPING AND GIF TS

BEAUTY SPOT GRENFELL

GRENFELL SHOES

Waxing Eyelash Extensions ■ Tinting ■ Spray Tans ■ Manicures & Pedicures ■ Shellac Nails ■ Facials & Massage Stocking Pelactiv Skincare, Pure Fiji, OPI, St Tropez, Xtreme Lashes, CND Shellac.

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99 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 2510

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Ladies, Mens and Children’s Shoes Casual to evening to sports range Handbags, luggage and wallets

148 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1210 FB: Facebook.com/grenfellshoes E: grenfellshoes@bigpond.com.au www.grenfellshoes.com.au

GRENFELL FURNITURE AND HOMEWARES Specialising in quality ■ Furniture ■ Bedding ■ Whitegoods ■ Electrical appliances ■ Homewares ■ Unique artwork & gifts

66 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 2857 E: kmholz@bigpond.com

LODGE 33 Anoint chakratherapy energy balancing oils, teas, candles and treatments.

■ Japanese textiles and artworks ■ Workshops and exhibitions ■ Open weekends and by appointment

Lodge 33, Burrangong Street, Grenfell P: 0409 902 816 E: info@anoint.com.au www.lodge33.com.au 14

GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

LOUISA’S LOCKER Ladies fashion boutique with affordable clothing and accessories for all occasions and ages.

■ 5% seniors discount offered ■ Open: Monday – Friday 9.30am–5.30pm; Saturday 9am–12pm

100 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1577 www.facebook.com/louisaslockergrenfell

MY WHITE WALLS Inspire your spaces ■ Unique Wall Art and Design ■ Stationery Cards and Lifestyle Pieces ■ Photography, Art and Interior Styling Workshops Flagship Retail Store open Thursday – Friday – Saturday Instagram with us @mywhitewallsau Subscribe to our news, events and shop online at www.mywhitewalls.com.au Previously D.A Yates Photography + Design

42 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 2227 www.mywhitewalls.com.au | @mywhitewallsau

RAFFIA & CO + LISA SCHAEFER MILLINERY Boutique shopping Accredited Milliner A truly beautiful gift shopping experience – jewellery, handbags, homewares, art and artisan pieces. Home of Lisa Schaefer Millinery.

Open Wednesday–Sunday.

Shop Online at facebook.com/RaffiaAndCo

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Place Logo Here

58 Main Street, Grenfell P: 0488 047 376 E: lisa@lsmillinery.com.au www.lsmillinery.com.au | www.facebook.com/RaffiaAndCo 15

SERVICES

ASTON & JOYCE PTY LTD With years of local knowledge of Grenfell and surrounding districts, contact us today to discuss your needs regarding: ■ Livestock Sales ■ Rural Properties ■ Real Estate in Grenfell & Surrounding Villages ■ Property Management ■ Agents for Grenfell Self Storage Trading Hours: Monday to Friday – 8.30am to 5.30pm; Saturday – 8.30am to 12 noon Agency for BENDIGO BANK

124 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1110 A/H: Danny – 0428 436 266 Andrew – 0428 276 969 www.astonandjoyce.com.au

CLIVE J ANDERSON & CO PTY LTD

GRENFELL INTERNET CENTRE ■

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We provide real estate property and livestock services to Grenfell and the surrounding area.

■ Stock and Station Agents ■ Real Estate and Business Agents

89 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1610 E: enquiries@cjanderson.com.au Rob: 0428 431 611 Ali: 0423 865 262 Sheryl: 0467 061 570 www.cjanderson.com.au

92 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1720 F: 02 6343 2546 E: grentech@grenfell.org.au www.grenfellinternetcentre.com.au

GRENFELL LIONS CLUB INC

WEDDIN COMMUNITY NATIVE NURSERY

Visit our restored historic railway station and comfort stop.

Enjoy the facilities of the covered free BBQ area with seating for 40.

Proud sponsors of Save Sight, Drug Awareness, Diabetes, Hearing Dogs, Youth Exchange and Local Charities.

PO Box 24, Grenfell NSW 2810 P: 02 6343 1574 or 0407 213 033 E: carrollt@tpg.com.au

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Computer terminals with high speed broadband, wifi and power available for mobile computing.

Computer maintenance and repairs, parts, accessories and printing services.

GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

Specialising in propagating plants of the Weddin Shire.

Visit the Weddin Community Native Nursery weekdays 9–12 for reasonably priced plants, trees and shrubs for your garden, farm or hobby block.

45 East Street, Grenfell P: 0456 879 481 E: weddincnn@outlook.com

GORDON GARLING MOFFITT

OUTSCAPE

We are dedicated to providing quality up to date legal advice and individualised attention to our clients and assisting the community through their family, business, conveyancing, criminal, employment, succession planning and Estate matters.

Catriona Glanville Landscape Architect

B.L.Arch., R.L.A./A.I.L.A., Cert Hort (Dist), A.I.L.D.M.

129 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1866 E: grenfell@ggmlawyers.com.au www.ggmlawyers.com.au

Outscape is a landscape architectural design business run by Catriona Glanville across Regional NSW. Travelling to you to develop a garden design on site and produce scaled plans if requested.

Enquiries welcome.

‘Arramagong West’, Grenfell P: 02 6343 8288 E: info@outscape.net.au www.outscape.net.au

THE COMBINED CHURCHES ASSOCIATION OF GRENFELL We encourage and welcome you to join one of our congregations in worship.

There are six active Christian Church denominations in Grenfell comprising the Combined Churches Association, including Anglican, Australian Christian Churches (Family Church), Catholic, Presbyterian, Salvation Army and Uniting.

CHURCH

ADDRESS

SERVICE TIME

CONTACT

Anglican

19 Middle Street

Sunday 7:30am & 9:00am

Rev. Ross Craven (02) 6343 1097

Catholic

31 Young Street

Sunday 9:30am

Parish Office (02) 6343 1514

Family Church

102 Mid Western Highway

Sunday 10:00am

Ps. Rob Newton (02) 6343 2396

Presbyterian

Cnr Weddin & Middle Streets

Sunday 9:00am

Rev. William Morrow (02) 6343 1224

Salvation Army

52 George Street

Sunday 10:30am

Heather Horneman 0438 901 419

Uniting

Cnr Camp & Forbes Streets

Sunday 10:45am

Rev. William Morrow (02) 6343 1224

THE HENRY LAWSON HIGH SCHOOL CHALLENGE, ENCOURAGE, ACHIEVE ...

Join us in a learning partnership that encourages: ■ Students to engage actively as participants in school and community life ■ Achieving personal best ■ The use of innovative and current teaching and learning practices ■ The development of resilient and independent life-long learners

49 South Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1390 E: henrylawso-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au www.henrylawso-h.schools.nsw.edu.au 17

SERVICES

JAN PARLETT’S COUNTRY EXPERIENCE – EXCHANGE HOTEL The Events Venue – The Store With More Bringing you the most memorable: ■ Easter, Christmas in Winter, Spring Celebration ■ Christmas Room and Christmas Displays ■ Girls Get Togethers and Indulgent Occasions for Women ■ It’s the place to see and be seen!

Events & opening times: follow us on Facebook Jan Parlett’s Country Experience

29 Main Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1984 E: grenfellexchangehotel@hotmail.com www.jparlettcountry.com | www.grenfellexchangehotel.com

GRENFELL PRESCHOOL AND LONG DAY CARE CENTRE

AUTOMOTIV E

High quality child care for the families of the Weddin Shire, catering for children 6 weeks to 12 years.

Long Day Care, Preschool, Before and After School Care options available.

■ Contact Sharon Grant (Director) or Lisa Jones (Administration Officer)

Providing a high quality preschool service to the children and families of Quandialla and Caragabal.

We visit Quandialla each Monday and Wednesday and Caragabal each Tuesday and Friday during school terms.

Contact: Grenfell Preschool and LDC

35 Forbes Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1743 F: 02 6343 1304 E: mail@grenfellpreschool.com.au www.grenfellpreschool.com.au

35 Forbes Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1743 F: 02 6343 1304 E: mail@grenfellpreschool.com.au www.grenfellpreschool.com.au

HARDY’S GARAGE

PETER MELLON MOTORS

Old Fashioned Service for New Technology Serving Grenfell with Automotive Repairs since 2004.

Todd Hardy Licence No. MVRL48017.

24–26 West Street, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1058 www.hardysgarage.com.au 18

WEDDIN MOBILE PRESCHOOL SERVICE

GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

Automotive services and repairs, tyres, batteries and spare parts. Light and heavy, pink, blue and brown slips. Open Monday–Friday.

NRMA Agency for all insurances including CTP Green Slips. NRMA road service 24/7 – 13 11 11.

Rygate Square, Grenfell P: 02 6343 1522 E: peter@petermellonmotors.com.au Licence Number: 013043

THE REGION

COWRA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Your one stop shop for local and regional information, maps, local produce and a variety of Cowra Region wines.

Home of the famous P.O.W. Hologram.

Open from 9am–5pm 7 days a week.

Corner Mid Western and Olympic Highway, Cowra P: 02 6342 4333 E: info@cowratourism.com.au www.cowratourism.com.au

FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL amazing Forbes NSW Home of the ‘Somewhere Down the Lachlan’ Sculpture Trail, Rabbit Girl and Bushranger Ben Hall. Feast on amazing local produce, visit the spectacular Lachlan River or enjoy beautiful Lake Forbes.

Forbes is an amazing place to visit.

Forbes Railway Arts and Tourist Centre, Forbes Railway Station, Union Street, Forbes P: 02 6852 4155 www.finditinforbes.com.au

HAWKESBURY CITY COUNCIL DISCOVER THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN the Hawkesbury.

■ Hawkesbury Visitor Centre Open 7 days.

■ Hawkesbury Visitor Centre, servicing visitors to northwestern Sydney, upper Hawkesbury River, and Greater Blue Mountains for over 30 years.

■ Hawkesbury local government area, home of 2 World Heritage listings – Greater Blue Mountains and Australian Convict Sites (Great North Road).

Hawkesbury City Council and Weddin Shire Council working together to support tourism.

Ham Common (opposite Richmond RAAF Base), Hawkesbury Valley Way, Richmond P: 1300 362 874 www.discoverthehawkesbury.com.au 19

Take a Town Walk

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self guided walk of Grenfell’s historic buildings – commence your walk from the Grenfell Visitor Information Centre on Main Street.

Turn right towards the roundabout and cross Main Street to the Henry Lawson bench seat statue.

Continue up the hill along Forbes Street crossing Schweitzer Lane taking note of the old butcher shop on the corner. Arriving at the Uniting Church, turn left into Camp Street (Mid Western Highway).

Looking across Camp Street you will see the Court House which was erected in 1873. This replaced the original Court House erected in 1867 following the discovery of gold. A Court House was thought necessary with the huge influx of prospectors converging on Grenfell. The rapidly growing settlement was in desperate need of a Court House to deal with petty claims (Court of Petty Sessions).

Now cross Camp Street and continue walking east to Church Street. Note the original white mile marker, West Wyalong 65 miles to the west and Cowra 34 miles to the east.

Continue along Church Street noting the impressive Anglican Church. Retrace your steps back to Camp Street and turn right, passing in front of the Post Office.

The next building on your right is the quaint Grenfell Pastoral Agricultural Horticultural and Industrial Association office of the Grenfell Show, first held in 1876. Looking across the road you will see an example of a miner’s cottage with timber clad walls, central doorway and corrugated iron roof.

Continue east past the Grenfell Fire Station, constructed in 1929. You will note its original doors are no longer used; modern fire engines have become too wide for the main doorway.

Further along is the School of Arts building, erected in 1896, which now houses the Grenfell Museum, reputed to be one of the best in country NSW. The building housed the Literary Institute 20

GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

Library until 1947 when it was taken over by the Grenfell and District Public Library Committee. In 1968 the Library was moved to its present location in Main Street and the Grenfell Museum and Historical Society has been located here ever since.

Continue to the roundabout. Cross Weddin Street to the service station and turn left and cross Camp Street to arrive at the Cenotaph. Continue past the Cenotaph and cross Short Street to arrive on Main Street. Take a short walk to the right to arrive at George Street, Grenfell’s original main street. Turn left into George Street and walk down Grenfell’s original business precinct.

You will notice George Street is very narrow, too narrow in fact to turn a horse and buggy.

Government surveyors arrived in Grenfell too late after the gold rush; huts and tents had sprung up in two rough lines following the curve of Emu Creek. The surveyors made a street between these tents and named it George Street. Main Street was surveyed at the same time, following a similar curve but was left undeveloped, with the understanding that Grenfell would soon need a wider and less curved Main Street. Grenfell has one of the few curved Main Streets in Australia.

An interesting description of George Street appeared in the Grenfell Record dated June 1885.

“A more idiotically arranged town cannot possibly exist; how its drunken thoroughfares are to be properly aligned and made presentable we

cannot say…the theodolite has discovered streets running into front doors and escaping by the back bedroom window; lanes wiggle in and out like a wounded eel…”

A series of disastrous fires in the late 1800s destroyed many of the original George Street buildings and they were rebuilt in Main Street.

This explains the large architectural differences between the two streets.

As you walk along George Street, note some of the old shopfronts and a perfectly preserved example of a miner’s cottage at No. 92 (private residence).

Next is the magnificent Oddfellow’s Hall on your right. The original hall opened in 1873 at the height of the gold rush. By 1875 some 200 members had been installed into the Manchester Unity Independent Order of Oddfellows. Upon its opening, members marched from their old rooms at the Thistle Hall 300 metres away, to the new hall wearing bowler hats and sashes of office and were led by a brass band. The original hall was destroyed by fire in 1888 and this building was rebuilt on the same site.

Next door, the Tatersall’s Turf Hotel was built in 1888 and has since been a restaurant, motel and is now private flats. The original building was an imposing sight with a two storey verandah all the way along the street with stunning wrought iron lacework. The central archway which still exists

was to allow horse drawn coaches to drive in to the courtyard.

Walking down to the intersection of George and Forbes Streets you will see the Bank of New South Wales on your right. The building was built in 1890 and served as a bank until becoming a private residence. The bank was the scene of a hold up in 1900.

This part of town was a hive of activity with numerous public houses, dance halls and theatres.

Cross Forbes Street and you will see the Salvation Army Citadel on your right. A few steps further down George Street and you will see a charming building which is known today as the Band Hall. Constructed in 1883 it was originally a shop and dwelling prior to becoming Grenfell’s first Council Chambers. It then became a most important establishment providing bread as the local baker’s shop.

Further down George Street on the right is the Old Railway Hotel and Stables, constructed in 1879. Note the original dirt verandahs. It is now a private residence.

Continue to the end of George Street and turn left into Main Street. You will see the new Railway Hotel built in 1914 to house travellers coming by rail to Grenfell. It was originally the Osborne Hotel but the name was changed upon the arrival of the railway in Grenfell. From the verandah, you can see the historic Railway Station to the west.

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Company Dam Picnic Area Showground Country Club (Golf, Tennis) Bowling Club (Squash) Swimming Pool Wallangreen Sculpture Garden Assemblies of God Church Uniting Church Court House Police Station Post Office Museum

C M N O P Q R

GRENFELL VISITOR GUIDE

D CA E

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D B Anglican Church Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church F Men’s Shed CE Catholic AChurch G Racecourse F D CemeteryAB Visitor Information - F3 H G E Public Toilets CB RV DumpI Location - D4 RV ShortCHFTerm Parking - F3 D A Caravan Park - B3 J Refuse Tip GI - F0 D E B K HJ EF C L K

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Historic Railway Station - C4 B Henry Lawson’s Birthplace - H8 O’Brien’s Lookout - I4 C Endemic Garden - I4 R.B. Bembrick Oval (Union) - B3 Lawson OvalD(League) - G8 Stan McCabe Oval - G7 Vaughn Park - E2 E Taylor Park - F4 Rotary Park - E6 Town LibraryF- E3 Hospital - H3 G H

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Local Emergency Contacts Police 02 6343 1222 Fire 02 6343 1111 Ambulance 02 6343 1022 SES 1800 201 000 NRMA 02 6343 1522 Local Doctor 02 6343 2494 For emergencies requiring Police, Fire or Ambulance please dial 000.

NRMA Road Assist - 131 111

Quand

For an up-to-date calendar of events visit www.grenfell.org.au

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JANUARY

SEP TEMBER

Australia Day Celebrations – Grenfell, Caragabal, Greenethorpe and Quandialla

Grenfell Show

MARCH

Grenfell Jockey Club Races

Grenfell Rodeo | Quick Shears

Le Tour De Greenethorpe

APRIL

Weddin Mountain Muster

Caragabal Sheep Races

OC TOBER

ANZAC DAY – Grenfell, Caragabal, Greenethorpe and Quandialla

Open Gardens

Iandra Castle Open Day | Grenfell Picnic Races

Iandra Castle Open Day

JUNE

DECEMBER

Grenfell Henry Lawson Festival of Arts

Carols by Candlelight

Iandra Castle Open Day

Combined Service Clubs Christmas Carnival

QUIRK Y FAC TS

6. Grenfell has one of the few curved main streets in Australia. The curve follows the bend of Emu Creek.

1. Did you know the eagle on the top of the building in lower Main Street was installed to deter pigeons?

2. The settlement of Grenfell was originally known as Emu Creek.

3. There are no parking meters or traffic lights in Grenfell.

4. O’Brien’s Hill is one of the state’s most significant gold heritage sites.

5. Share farming was pioneered at Greenethorpe to Grenfell’s east.

7. Grenfell’s original main street, George Street, was deemed too narrow to turn a horse and buggy and the new Main Street was surveyed well before it came into use as the town’s business district.

8. The railway line at Quandialla was originally built to service the grain produced in the area.

9. Every year in September the Caragabal Country Club hosts the Caragabal Sheep Races.

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Taree

Dubbo

Forster Wellington Peak Hill

Molong

Parkes

Orange

Forbes

Newcastle Bathurst Lithgow

Canowindra

West Wyalong

Mudgee

Blayney

GRENFELL

Katoomba

Cowra

SYDNEY

Young

Griffith Leeton

Bowral

Temora Cootamundra

Narrandera Junee Wagga Wagga

Yass Gundagai

Grenfell Visitor Information Centre 88 Main Street Grenfell NSW 2810 P 02 6343 2059 E info@grenfell.org.au www.grenfell.org.au

Canberra

Goulburn

Wollongong Kiama

Nowra