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attractions-iconAttractions in the Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, and Central West regions of NSW

 

Featherdale Wildlife Park
Winner of "Major Tourist Attraction" NSW 2009, Featherdale is home to the world's largest collection of Australian native animals. Featherdale is Sydney's ultimate interactive wildlife experience, providing visitors with the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of its "Aussies". Hand feed kangaroos, wallabies and emus or cuddle up to a koala at anytime of day.Featherdale is midway between Sydney and the Blue Mountains and is open daily from 9am to 5pm.

217 Kildare Road, Doonside.
www.featherdale.com.au

 

Tobruk Sheep Station
Something different for the family and friends. An exciting, fun-filled day at Sydney's own Tobruk Sheep Station, just 40 mins from Castle Hill. The Outback Show every Sunday from 10.30am-2.30pm includes stockmen on horseback, sheep mustering, working dog displays, sheep shearing, whip cracking and boomerang throwing. Also included: billy tea and hamper and a hearty two course country lunch, licensed bar and gift shop. Bookings are essential. Also available are farmstay, camping, birthday parties, weddings and special events.

5050 Old Northern Road, Maroota  (02) 4566 8223
www.tobruksheepstation.com.au


Trolley Tours
Take a ride on a unique Trolley Bus and see the best of the Blue Mountains. Enjoy Katoomba and Leura World Heritage sights as you experience a travel feature of bygone days. Tour includes full commentary on the history of the Blue Mountains. A $20 all day pass allows you to hop on and hop off at any of the 29 Great Attractions (Trolley buses run hourly). The pass also entitles you to unlimited stops and travel on Blue Mountains Bus Services including Wentworth Falls, Blackheath and Govetts Leap Lookout for more great scenic bushwalks and spectacular views.

285 Main Street, Katoomba Phone Freecall 1800 801 577
www.trolleytours.com.au

 

World Heritage Wonder Pass
The Wonder Pass aims to promote the western area of the Blue Mountains by marketing a single entry ticket to three major attractions. The sheer brilliance of Jenolan Caves, the unmistakable beauty of Mount Tomah Botanic Garden, and the fun and excitement of the Zig Zag Railway can all be experienced on one low price ticket. The three venues are open 7 days a week and can be visited in any order. The Pass is valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Contact Lithgow Tourism  1300 76 02 76
www.tourism.lithgow.com

 

Jenolan Caves 
mammoth-caveRegarded as Australia’s most outstanding cave system – with 11 spectacular show caves, pure underground rivers and amazing formations – Jenolan Caves is among the finest and oldest cave systems in the world.
 Guided show cave tours
 Thrilling adventure tours
 Cave concerts
 Fun and fascinating history tours
 Accommodation - historic Caves House, modern Mountain Lodge, self contained cottages

(02)6359 3911 or 1300 763 311
www.jenolancaves.org.au 


Scenic World
skyways-webFloat on air in the Skyway with its world first Electro-Sceni Glass Floor. Ride the steepest incline Railway in the world. Stroll along the Walkway through towering Jurassic rainforest, and refresh both your spirit and soul! Quietly glide out of the valley aboard the Cableway, taking in the breathtaking panorama of the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park.

Scenic World - Cnr Violet St & Cliff Dr, Katoomba (02)4782 2699 
www.scenicworld.com.au


Selwood Science and Puzzles
selwood-webSelwood Science consists of three specialty rooms - the Puzzle Room, the Bookshop and the Science Lab. There you will find; dinosaurs to tempt the budding palaeontologist, telescopes powerful enough for viewing the moon, and star gazing, magic tricks, optical illusions and much, much more.

41 Railway Parade, Hazelbrook  (02)4758 6235
www.selwoodscience.com.au

 
Zig Zag Railway
Come and visit the Zig Zag Railway at Clarence. For all steam engine buffs and for those who aren't (they'll convert you), a thrilling experience is to be had by young and old.
Watch out for the ‘Friends of Thomas’ and ‘Wizards Express’ weekends, an opportunity to get dressed up and join in the fun.

Bells Line of Road, Clarence
www.zigzagrailway.com.au

 

Mount Tomah Botanic Garden
Embark on a botanic journey around the globe through the 28 hectares of landscaped gardens and pristine Blue Mountains cool weather rainforest. Take a guided tour and enjoy panoramic mountain views and world class facilities including a la carte restaurant, visitor centre and gift shop. Buy a Wollemi pine. Explore the recently opened 33 hectare jungle and stay in the Jungle Lodge. Check out the flora and fauna in this rich ecosystem.

Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah  (02)4567 3000
www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au

 

Hartley Historic Site
The village of Hartley,near the foot of Mount Victoria, was the "gateway to the west" after it was established in 1837, until the arrival of the railway in 1887. Its famous courthouse and a large portion of the remaining village are now maintained by the Dept of Environment and Climate Change as an historic site. An information centre is open 7 days a week, and tours of the courthouse are conducted at set times on most days. Pre-booked tours for schools and other groups can be arranged.

Great Western Highway, Hartley  (02)6255 2117



Penrith Whitewater Stadium
whitewater-webBuilt for the Sydney 2000 Games, Penrith Whitewater Stadium is a world class man-made river. It has all the rugged features of grade 3 whitewater conveniently nestled at the foot of the Blue Mountains only an hours drive from Sydney. Available year round for whitewater rafting, whitewater kayaking and guided tours, anyone as young as 12 can join in the fun.

Penrith Whitewater - McCarthy’s Lane, Cranebrook  (02) 4730 4333  www.penrithwhitewater.com.au

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
   
What's On

diary-web'What's On' in the Hawkesbury,Blue Mountains & Central West of NSW

 

JULY

 

MOTORCYCLE RALLY, HAWKESBURY
24 and 25 July
The Macquarie Towns Motorcycle Restoration and Preservation Club invites all vintage, veteran and classic motorcyclists to join them in their 8th annual rally - a two day ride around the beautiful Hawkesbury and surrounding district. Trophies will be awarded in all categories.
Entry forms from David Howe (02) 4578 4601 or Clyde Ikin (02) 9654 2068
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

ESKBANK HOUSE, LITHGOW
Until 25 July
The Australian War Memorial travelling exhibition, A Digger's Best Friend.
As a special treat, members of the Lithgow Vintage Car Club will be displaying their cars in the grounds of Eskbank House.
A Digger's Best Friend offers an A to Z of animals in war, from mascots and messengers to creepy-crawlies. Animals are put to many uses in war. Sometimes they have jobs to do: the horses, camels, mules and donkeys used to transport soldiers and equipment, as well as carrier pigeons and tracker dogs with their special talents.
10am-4pm, Wednesday to Sunday 

 

LITHGOW CONSERVATORIUM
23 July
Simon Tedeschi on the Grand Piano and Ian Cooper virtuoso violinist will play jazz and the classics. A wonderful evening of fine music by two superb young musicians. Location: Union Theatre, Bridge St Lithgow.  7.30pm
Phone (02) 6351 3990 for bookings.

  

TRUFFLE HUNT, OBERON
July and August
Visitors to the Oberon area will be able to participate in the truffle hunt at the Lowes Mount Truffiere.
Phone (02) 6329 8210 for details

JENOLAN CAVES
17 July
Georg Mertens will perform his "From Cello to Tango" program in the Cathedral Chamber of the Lucas Cave - with arguably the best acoustics of any performance space in the world.
24 July
World favourites by the Paganini Duo (Gustaw Szelski, violin and Georg Mertens, guitar). Experience the excitement, deep underground in the Lucas Cave. Time: 4pm
Phone 1300 763 311  www.jenolancaves.org.au

MOUNT TOMAH BOTANIC GARDEN
Until 29 August
Mountain Magic showcase with winter flowering plants including proteas, bulbs and camellias. 10am-4pm
10 - 11 July
Workshop - Paper Pulp Sculpture
Learn how to turn office shredded paper into fascinating and durable objects with Tony Lennon. $25 pp incl. garden fee and materials.
17 July
Wizards School of Magic
Wizards, witches, fairies and goblins of all ages are invited to join the Wizard Mistress Wollemia Bubblebark at the Wizards School of Magic. 11am-12.30pm and 1pm-2.30pm. Bookings Essential.
Phone (02) 4567 3000  www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au

YULEFEST IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
Until 31 August
Yulefest in the Mountains is a special time to celebrate winter in a Northern Hemisphere style with a wide array of traditional Yulefest dinners and luncheons. Live entertainment, carols and decorations all add to the Yulefest atmosphere. Enjoy the crisp mountain air by day and the fireside by night.

YULEFEST AT HISTORIC MAMRE HOMESTEAD
Saturday 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 July
Enjoy the true spirit of Yulefest with open log fires, Santa Claus and live entertainment. 3 course $65pp BYO. Bookings essential.
181 Mamre Road, Orchard Hills.  Phone (02) 9670 6178

YULEFEST DINNERS AT THE COMET INN, HARTLEY VALE
Until 31 August
The Yulefest events in the Lithgow area centre on the Comet Inn. These include a traditional four course dinner

TOUR HARTLEY'S HISTORIC COURTHOUSE
July - August
For a glimpse of the past when convicts, bushrangers and early settlers abound.
Every Saturday at 11am and 2pm $6.60 each (min 4)
Location: Hartley Historic Village
Contact Robbitti Stanley (02) 6355 2117

ZIG ZAG RAILWAY
9 - 12 July Thomas the Tank Engine
Day out with Thomas at the Zig Zag Railway - Meet the Fat Controller and other activities
Bells Line of Road, Clarence  Phone (02) 6355 2955
17 July Wizards Express
Wizards, witches, fairies and goblins of all ages are invited to join Hagrid and friends for a magical steam train adventure. Departs Platform 9 3/4 Clarence Station 4pm. Concludes 7.15pm. Cost $37.50 adults, $27.50 children (under 4 are free)
Bookings (02) 6355 2955  www.zigzagrailway.com.au

NSW STATE DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKE CHAMPIONSHIPS, LITHGOW
10 -11 July
Elite riders will be competing for the NSW State Championship with a full days program of both men's and women's races.
Phone (02) 6351 3171  www.insanecycles.com.au

 

EVERGLADES  GARDENS, LEURA
11 July
Xmas in July Lunch
Phone (02) 4784 1938   www.everglades.org.au

MUDGEE SMALL FARM FIELD DAYS
16 - 17 July
To see full details of exhibitors and the site plan, check out www.arec.com.au

 

BLUE MOUNTAINS CONCERT SOCIETY
24 July
Simon Tedeschi and Kevin Hunt at Springwood Civic Centre. Two very talented pianists come together as a dynamic duo in classical music and jazz that will take piano recital to a new level. 8pm
Phone 1800 984 460  www.bmconcerts.com

THE SYDNEY SOCIETY OF MODEL ENGINEERS INC
25 July
The oldest model engineering club in Australia. Open to the public on the last Sunday of the month, with many forms of model engineering to enjoy.
869 Luddenham Rd, Luddenham  www.ssme.org.au

 

PARK HOTEL, BATHURST
29 July
Ray Vanderby Jazz Trio featuring Anna Leckie and James Sewell on saxophone and Martin Hayes on guitar. Free entry 7.30-10.30pm  www.orangejazzclub.com    

 

ORANGE ART SOCIETY FROST FEST ART SHOW
30 July - 8 August
Cultural Centre, Sale St  10am-3pm
Enquiries (02) 6362 5729

 

ARTIC EXPRESS TRAIN RIDES, ORANGE
31 July - 2 August
Lachlan Valley Railway - trips from Orange Station to Polona and Blayney.
Phone Orange Visitor Information Centre 1800 069 466  www.lvr.com.au

 

JAZZ AT THE JUNCTION, ORANGE
25 July
Orange Jazz Club Inc presents the Ray Vanderby Trio ay the Junction Hotel, Canowindra from 2-5pm. The Trio has a residency on the last Sunday of every month.   www.rayvanderby.com

 

TRUFFLES AND JAZZ, ORANGE
31 July
Michael Caulfield and the Ray Vanderby Quartet at Borrodell on the Mount, Lake Canoblas Rd at 7pm. Bookings essential. Phone (02) 6365 3425  www.borrodell.com.au 

 

AUGUST

 

PARKINSON'S ANNUAL UNITY WALK 2010, HOMEBUSH
29 August at Sydney Olympic Park
The walk is a great day out for all the family and all proceeds go towards vital research into Parkinson's disease and to support sufferers, their families and carers. The walk is supported by comedienne and media personality Wendy Harmer and actor Shane Jacobson. The NSW Government  is providing free transport on City trains and buses and Country Link to and from the venue for those taking part. To find out more and to register, phone (02) 8875 8900 or visit www.unitywalk.com.au

 

MUDGEE WINE & FOOD FAIR, BALMORAL BEACH
8 August
The Reserve, The Esplanade, Balmoral  10am - 5pm
All visitors are encouraged to be mindful of signage and park accordingly, Council rangers will be monitoring the situation. For public transport options and timetables, go to www.131500.com.au

 

RIVERSIDE THEATRES, PARRAMATTA
24 - 28 August
Lying Cheating Bastard. The extraordinary story of a con-man's induction into the murky world of gambling, gangsters and grifters. Adults $48, Conc $43, 30 and under $35.
31 August - 4 September
Driving Miss Daisy. Adults $52, Conc $47.
Cnr Church & Market Sts, Parramatta
Bookings: Riverside Box Office (02) 8839 3399 or  www.riversideparramatta.com.au


MOUNT TOMAH BOTANIC GARDEN
Until 29 August
Mountain Magic showcase with winter flowering plants including proteas, bulbs and camellias. 10am - 4pm
Phone (02) 4567 3000 or visit www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au


BUSH RUN FUNDRAISER, MT WILSON TO BILPIN
21 August
An annual 36km bush run used as a training exercise and fund raiser for local Royal Fire Service brigades. Phone (02) 4567 0044 or visit www.bilpinbushrun.com.au


SPRINGWOOD ART SHOW
27 - 29 August
Over 400 works to admire or purchase from gallery and emerging artists and photographers. A range of jewellery, silks, leather and other crafts is also for sale. Featured artist this year is Stella Pearse, well known for her iconic bird and bush paintings.
Springwood High School Hall, Grose Road


YULEFEST IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
Until 31 August
Yulefest in the Mountains is a special time to celebrate winter in a Northern Hemisphere style with a wide array of traditional Yulefest dinners and luncheons. Live entertainment, carols and decorations all add to the Yulefest atmosphere. Enjoy the crisp mountain air by day and the fireside by night.


CHOIR FESTIVAL, BLACKHEATH
27 - 29 August
Up to 20 choirs perform individually. Each concert is approx 2 hours with 3 to 4 choirs performing. The final concert on Sunday afternoon concludes with a combined choir performance under the baton of Walter Sutcliffe. The friendliest choir festival in the world - not a competition, its all about the music.
Blackheath Community Centre, Cnr Gardiner Cres and Great Western Highway


WIZARDS EXPRESS, ZIG ZAG RAILWAY
14 August
Enjoy the magic and the mystery of the Zig Zag Railway's Harry Potter themed Wizards Express with 3 hours of fun and laughter. Walk through the wall on Platform 9 3/4, listen to "The Hat" sort you into your House before boarding the train for the run to Hogsmeade. Don't be a Muggle, dress as your favourite character and practise your spells before you come. Bookings essential. Cost A$37.50 C$27.50
Phone (02) 6355 2955  www.zigzagrailway.com.au

 

MOTORCROSS ACTION - HIGH COUNTRY SERIES
22 August
Get set to roar at the Happy Valley Motorcross Track, Clarence. Events cater for riders of all ages.
Contact Lower Mountains Motorbike Club, Maree Kirby (02) 6336 2202  www.lmmcc.com.au


CAR OBSERVATION RUN AND CAR DISPLAY, HARTLEY
8 August
A drive through the Hartley Valley, navigating via a series of cryptic clues. Followed by a display of Vintage, Classic and Muscle cars, and a car boot sale and sausage sizzle.
Old Hartley School, Mid Hartley Rd, Hartley. Phone (02) 6355 0214


YULEFEST DINNERS AT THE COMET INN, HARTLEY VALE
Until 31 August
The Yulefest events in the Lithgow area centre on the Comet Inn. These include a traditional four course dinner.  Phone (02) 6355 2247


MEET THE MAKER - WINE TASTING IN THE HARTLEY VALLEY
1 August
Sample some of the regions's finest wines with a tasting hosted by a local winemaker. Adam's Shed, Great Western Highway, Hartley. Phone (02) 6355 2096


TOUR HARTLEY'S HISTORIC COURTHOUSE
August
For a glimpse of the past when convicts, bushrangers and early settlers abound. Every Saturday at 11am and 2 pm $6.60 each (min 4)
Location: Hartley Historic Village
Contact Robbitti Stanley (02) 6355 2117


JENOLAN CAVES
14 and 15 August
Jenolan Caves will celebrate the discovery of the Imperial Cave. Tours will be lead by the long-deceased "Jeremiah Wilson".  Time 4pm.
21 August
Georg Mertens will perform his "From Cello to Tango" program in the Cathedral Chamber of the Lucas Cave - with arguably the best acoustics of any performance space in the world. Time 4pm.
28 August
The Paganini Duo will perform fiery and passionate Gypsy music from Russia, Romania and Hungary. Experience the excitement, deep underground in the Lucas Cave. Time 4pm.
Phone 1300 763 311  www.jenolancaves.org.au


TRUFFLE HUNT, OBERON
Each Saturday or by appointment
Visitors to the Oberon area will be able to participate in the truffle hunt at Lowes Mount Truffiere, a small family business north of Oberon. Phone (02) 6329 8210 for details or visit www.lowesmounttruffles.com.au


WILHELM STRING QUARTET, ALL SAINTS' CATHEDRAL, BATHURST
14 August
Mitchell Conservatorium Visiting Artists Programme. Works by Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann and Ross Edwards. 7.30pm. Tickets at the door A$25, Conc$20
Enquiries (02) 6331 6622


WINTER SHOWCASE SENIOR ENSEMBLES, BATHURST
22 August
Featuring Bathurst City and RSL Concert Band, Allegri Singers, Bathurst Chamber Orchestra, Fretworx, Bathurst Brass Boys and special guest artists from the Lachlan Campus.  3pm.  Entry by $note donation.
Location: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre Theatre. Enquiries (02) 6331 6622


ORANGE ART SOCIETY FROST FEST ARTSHOW
Until 8 August
Cultural Centre, Sale St  10am - 3pm
Enquiries (02) 6362 5729


ARTIC EXPRESS TRAIN RIDES, ORANGE
1 - 2 August
Lachlan Valley Railway - trips from Orange Station to Polona and Blayney.
Phone Orange Visitor Information Centre 1800 069 466  www.lvr.com.au