sydney & blue mountains - march

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au 1

Sydney, Blue Mountains & Central West

www.monthlyimag.com.au

Interact with Our Wildlife

March 2012

Inside:

Electrifying Selwood Science3

Lithgow Show Page 5

Plants with bite - Mt TomahPages 26 and 46

2 www.monthlyimag.com.au

Welcome to the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.

Origin of Muggadah: Gedumbah is the name of the valley at Echo Point. Also known as Kedumba, Godoomba and Katoomba. The basin bounded by Echo Point and Sublime Point east of the Sisters is Gundungurra women’s country. Further east from Kings Tablelands to Nepean River is called Muggadah. Who we are: Muggadah Indigenous Tour is Aboriginal owned and operated by Gundungurra people. Our strong traditional knowledge coupled with a remarkable understanding of contemporary Aboriginal issues; place us in a unique position to provide the ultimate Aboriginal cultural experience that highlights the true authenticity of our culture, heritage, spirituality and connection to country. Our culturally significant walks are conducted at an enjoyable pace and you will have the opportunity to view Gundungurra cultural sites along the way. Our ancient Country is an identification of our physical and spiritual relationship with the land. This landscape reflects the spirit of Gundungurra.

Gundungurra traditional lands are made up of a number of clan groups and kinship lines and our lands are a part of the World Heritage Blue Mountains National Park. Tours: We visit the world famous “Three Sisters” known to Gundungurra women as the “Seven Sisters” – Gunar. Leura cascades through the eyes of the Traditional caretakers of the Gundungurra lands. How Nadgyung – water was used and what its purpose was. Gunyanlung – our dreaming and creation. You will have the time of your life with fantastic views of our lands and the opportunity to experience at first hand the uniqueness and the real deal of Gundungurra people by participating in our guided walks.

Our Way, Our Story and Your Journey

Bookings Monday – Sunday Cost: $30.00 per adult $40 per adult on weekend $15.00 child/student/concession bookings are essential on Muggadah Tours – 0247 822 413 or 0448 786 010 email: [email protected] Website: www.muggadahtours.com.au


Tyto alba, The Common Barn Owl, on our front cover, is nocturnal as usual for owls, but it often becomes active shortly before dusk already and can sometimes be seen during the day, when it relocates from a sleeping place it does not like.This is a bird of open country such as farmland or grassland with some interspersed woodland, usually below 2,000. It is common in The Greater Blue Mountains.This owl prefers to hunt along the edges of woods. It has an effortless wavering flight as it quarters pastures or similar hunting grounds. Like most owls, the Barn Owl flies silently; tiny serrations on the leading edges of its flight feathers help to break up the flow of air over its wings, thereby reducing turbulence and the noise that accompanies it.It hunts by flying low and slowly over an area of open ground, hovering over spots that conceal potential prey. They may also use fence posts or other lookouts to ambush prey. The Barn Owl feeds primarily on small vertebrates, particularly rodents. Studies have shown that an individual Barn Owl may eat one or more rodents per night; a nesting pair and their young can eat more than 1,000 rodents per year. Locally superabundant rodent species in the weight class of several grams per individual usually make up the single largest proportion of prey. A Barn Owl will eat anything it can subdue and that is more than a beak full.The Barn Owl has acute hearing,

Muggadah Tours are offering closer interaction using detailed education and cultural experiences with appropriate local wildlife as part of their tours, using a partnership with Feathered Friends Travelling Zoo and Wildlife Shows. www.featheredfriends.com.au

with ears placed asymmetrically for improved detection of sound position and distance, and it does not require sight to hunt. Hunting nocturnally or crepuscularly, it can target and dive down, penetrating its talons through snow, grass or brush to seize rodents with deadly accuracy. Compared to other owls of similar size, the Barn Owl has a much higher metabolic rate, requiring relatively more food. Pound for pound, Barn Owls consume more rodents – often regarded as pests by humans – than possibly any other creature. This makes the Barn Owl one of the most economically valuable wildlife animals to farmers.The Black Kite is a medium-sized raptor (bird of prey). It is the most abundant raptor in the world, covering the majority of the Australian mainland. In the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area it gathers in flocks around bush fires and eagerly pounces on small animals as these flee the flames. It has been observed to carry flaming sticks to spread the fire. They often gather and soar above fires, shooters or workers, watching for flushed prey. It also is a scavenger, and frequents tips in outback towns, eating both live and dead prey. Their call is a descending whistle 'psee-err' followed by a staccato 'si-si-si-si-si'.Bearded Dragons are named for the distinctive flap of skin that lies below their jaw. When threatened they assume a defensive posture, open their mouths and push their throat skin forward to make a 'beard'. Like most other reptiles,

Bearded Dragons are cold blooded and require heat to function normally. They're able to regulate their body temperature through subtle changes in shades of colour - they become slightly darker in cooler weather and lighter in warmer weather - and can also change colour if they're startled or aggressive.


Muggadah’s unique tours. Secret Creek Café and Restaurant have launched their new dinner menu designed to showcase local and sustainable produce. The Restaurant is surrounded by 1000 acres of endangered native animal Eco Foundation. You must experience the delight of delicious responsible food in this wonderful setting amongst the increasing endangered species. To win an accommodation prize and ultimately our beautiful Bufori car, be sure to collect your ticket from a participating Bufori Partner and enter this wonderful competition. Check out our online Accommodation Guide, for different ideas to tempt you all through the state. Its bookings and web pages are direct, without any fees or charges.Drive safely, live and love well and make every day count…and good luck in finding your answers!Join us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and check out our web for more information.

Autumn or Fall signals lots of change and we are feeling this with quite a range of things to see and do, including in the superb Mount Tomah Garden. Show Time is becoming thicker as we approach Easter. We have short film festivals, a range of music festivals and events, wonderful food and wine and great places to see and stay .This month’s front cover invites you to interact with our wildlife. Muggadah Tours are going into more depth, working with licensed native animal experts on our local ecosystems, to add a new dimension to their cultural experiences. I am so enjoying the growth of these experiences, as they reconnect people with local indigenous ancestry to their culture and share it with visitors to the areas. The opportunity to become familiar with totem animals of the different Tribes in the areas and to understand the various areas’ creation stories in their own language; women’s business and men’s business; is empowering the indigenous owners and offering mystical and educational experiences to visitors. I have seen the smiles of delight and understanding on the faces of school children on

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www.bluemountainsimag.com.auFrom the EditorMarch

Material in this publication is copyright and may not be published or reproduced in any form without the express permission of the publishers. Circulation, an average of 17,000 copies distributed monthly throughout the Region as well as major tourism information centres in Sydney, Canberra and country NSW.Information supplied by others for this magazine is published in good faith.Whilst every endeavour has been made to ensure absolute accuracy of this information, the Publishers cannot be held responsible for any consequences resulting from omissions or inadvertent errors contained herein.Printed by Spotpress, 24-26 Lilian Fowler Place, Marrickville, NSW© Imag Publications Pty Ltd 2011Subscription to magazine $30 per year.

Independently owned franchisePublished by Imag PublicationsEditor: Margaret EdwardsPhone/Fax: (02) 6359 3399Mobile: 0411 858 140Administration: Kevin EdwardsEmail: [email protected] Box 602, Lithgow NSW 2790

© Wayne Cooper

If you are travelling in NSW, download the latest edition of

your monthly iMagMid North Coast • The Hunter & Beyond

Central Coast • Blue Mountains & Central WestSouthern Highlands & Illawarra • South Coast

Far South Coast

Hills & Hawkesbury 8

Parramatta 11

Penrith Valley 12

Lower Blue Mountains 13

Wentworth Falls 14

Leura Village 16

Katoomba 19

Blackheath to Mt Victoria 21

Main Map 24

Hartley & Surrounds 28

Lithgow 32

Blue Mountians Drive 34

Portland 36

Oberon 38

Bathurst to Mudgee 40

Orange & Districts 42

What’s on 45

Markets 47


LEAN & BENNETT P/L D/L 5232

Your local Toyota dealer. Country service, city prices

255 Main Street LithgowPhone 6352 2211

New model Toyota Yaris(current model)

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New Camry Atara2.5L 4 cylinder 6 speed auto(with paddle shift)5.8L/100kmfixed price servicing - 4 yearssensational buying

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392

The 2012 Lithgow Show16th and 17th March 2012.

The biggest and

best show yet!

This years show will bring great family entertainment with everything from the popular pavilion exhibits and animal nursery to our major entertainment which this year includes, The Outback Thunda Monster Truck and his mini accomplice as well as a Jet Powered Quad and the human inferno, on Saturday evening we have the Lithgow Show Rodeo followed by a fantastic Fireworks display.

Please visit www.lithgowshow.org.au for more information


Imagine sleeping 18-20 hours every day whilst spending the remainder of your hectic daily schedule munch-ing on a delicious menu of fresh Gum leaves. It’s a hard life being a Koala but at Featherdale Wildlife Park, we’ve gone out of our way to make things a little easier on our favourite Aussie icons by opening a brand new Koala Breeding Habitat.So successful has Featherdale’s man-aged captive breeding program become, that a new habitat was needed to house the Park’s expanding population of female Koalas. The Koala breeding season is now in full swing and already two little joeys have been born to proud first time mothers. Once the remaining female Koalas settle into their new habitat, Park Keepers will look to introducing one male at a time, care-fully ensuring that genetic diversity is maintained. Each year, the Park breeds between 6-10 Joeys and in its 40 years of operation, Featherdale has success-fully bred over 200 Koalas.

Once Joeys reach maturity, they will form part of Featherdale’s captive population or, be sent to other wildlife parks or zoos throughout the country to become part of their own breeding programs.As threats to wild Koala populations in-crease, it is vitally important that Wild-life institutions such as Featherdale play a conservation role in highlighting the plight of the species. Road fatalities and introduced species such as dogs have decimated Koala numbers. However, it is the destruction of habitats through land clearing, bushfires and diseases of the eucalypts, such as ‘dieback’, which have caused the greatest threat to the species. Featherdale currently houses one of

Australia’s largest private collections of Koalas and provides daily free encoun-ters where visitors are invited to get right up close and interact with these beautiful animals. These days, it is often unusual to see a Koala in the wild which makes these encounters a truly memorable experience.Did you know:Koalas are mostly nocturnal and can sleep between 18-20 hours per day.Koalas do not sleep all day because they become drunk or stoned on Eucalyptus leaves. Most of their time is spent sleeping because it requires a lot of energy to digest their toxic, fibrous diet and sleeping is the best way to conserve energy.Koalas are not bears but are MARSUPI-ALS, which means that their young are born immature & they develop further in the safety of a pouch. Featherdale is located at 217 Kildare Road Doonside and is open 9am to 5pm daily. Visit www.featherdale.com.au or call 02 9622 1644 for more infor-mation or find us on Facebook.

Featherdale opens new Koala Breeding Habitat

Cuddle up to a Koala for

FREE at anytime of day

Enjoy a face to face encounter

with Crocodiles, Wombats,

Tasmanian Devils...

Brand new Koala Breeding

Habitat now open!

a wildlife encounterlike no other

Open daily 9am-5pm (closed Christmas Day)

217 Kildare Road, Doonside, Sydney NSW 2767


WIN THE JEWEL IN THE BUFORI CROWNHer name means ``the jewel’’ in Spanish, her body classically curvy and sleek. But the Bufori MKIII La Joya is a contemporary hot fuelled rev-head who can carve up the road as well as any modern peer.And she could be yours if you win the Blue Mountains, Lithgow & Oberon Tourism Win a Bufori and see where it takes you competition.Handcrafted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the MKIII La Joya is a 1930s-style modern luxury sports car looking Great Gatsby but with all the grunt of a V6 engine.The first Bufori was built in 1987 by automobile enthusiast Gerry Khouri in his Sydney garage as a hobby. While it was not copied from a specific model, Gerry designed the car along the lines of early 1930s classic cars but with state-of-the-art engineering and technology. Soon, his brothers Anthony and George joined him in building cars for motor enthusiasts.

Today, Bufori boasts that its cars rival those of Ferrari and Maserati, with the La Joya the jewel in its crown.The new owner of the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon Tourism MKIII La Joya will take home a masterpiece which took about four months to handcraft.Beneath the refined classic look, the Bufori La Joya discretely incorporates state-of-the-art technology.The heart of the La Joya is a 2.7 litre quad cam 172hp V6 engine mid-mounted just ahead of the rear axle. The independent double wishbone suspensions are adjustable.

All visitors to the Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon region have the chance to win this luxury vehicle up until the end of April next year. Entry into the competition is simple:• Visit the Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon region between now and 30 April, 2012,• Go to one of the participating Win a Bufori businesses and spend $50 or more in accordance with their Win a Bufori promotional offer,• Receive your entry ticket and correctly complete your contact details, and Lodge your ticket.We look forward to welcoming the Gary and Marie back to the region when they return to collect their special Blue Mountains number plate that will be their entry in the final draw at the 2012 Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon Tourism Annual Winter Ball.Further information on the Win a Bufori competition and participating businesses can be found at www.visitbluemountains.com.au

Participating Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon Tourism Bufori businesses already include:The Carrington Hotel Redleaf Resort LilianfelsThe Mountain Heritage Hotel & Spa Retreat Best Western Alpine Motor Inn Bridal Falls CottageRoosterHill Guesthouse Tread Lightly Eco Tours Lithgow Visitor Information CentreBlue Mountains Trolley Tours Selwood Science & Puzzles Jenolan CavesBlue Mountains Visitor Information Centres Zig Zag Railway Leisure Inn SpiresThe Chalet Guesthouse Yindi Day Spa Fairmont Resort Blue MountainsWhispering Pines Featherdale Wildlife Park Werriberri Trail Rides

More businesses are joining this drive each day. Further information on the Win a Bufori... and see where it takes you promotion including participating

businesses and their offers can be found at

www.visitbluemountains.com.au * The Bufori MKIII La Joya is black amethyst in colour and an ex demonstrator model

Win A Bufori!


© Tourism NSW

Hills & Hawkesbury www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

© M Edwards Tobruk

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTREHawkesburyvalley Way, Clarendon Phone 4578 0233 or 1300 362 874 www.hawkesburytourism.com.au

[email protected] Open 7 days a week ...will take you there!

In March 1788, Governor Arthur Phillip set off to find more suitable land for agriculture and travelled up the Hawkesbury River as far as Dangar Island. He returned the following year and navigated the river to a point upstream of Windsor. Governor Phillip

and his party reached this area by boat on 6th July 1789 and named it Green Hills. He was impressed with its farming potential and quickly arranged for food production to begin in order to relieve the shortages in Port Jackson. Governor Macquarie named the settlement Windsor in 1810. This was the start of the Hawkesbury Hills District, still a rich production area for food and a wonderful playground. Visit the Information Centres at Dural, Castle Hill, Rouse Hill, Hornsby and Clarendon for more information. Surrounded by 10 National parks an hour’s drive from Sydney, the area provides a wide range of recreational pursuits.Encircled by noteworthy national parks - Dharug to the north and east, Yengo to the north-west, Cattai to the west, and Marramarra to the south - Wisemans Ferry is a rustic village on one of the country's most famous waterways. A favourite Sydneysider retreat,

Dural Visitor Information Centre656a Old Northern Road, Dural, NSWLocated in the grounds of historic Roughley House. Ph: (02) 9651 4411 e: [email protected] w: www.hhart.com.au

Rouse Hill Visitor Information Centre16 Bellcast Road, Rouse Hill, NSW (off Windsor Rd)Located in historic Mungerie House. Ph: (02) 8814 6909 e: [email protected] w: www.hhart.com.au

For FREE information on the Hills, Hawkesbury and Riverlands region such as maps, brochures, bushwalks and more drop into one of our Visitor Information Centres.Follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/HillsHawkesburyJoin us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/hillshawkesbury

both its rural charm and the hotel's famous ghost, remain intact. Typically Australian sandstone escarpments ring the village, providing a unique view of authentic country lifestyle less than 40 minutes north-west of Hornsby. The area abounds in Aboriginal and European history. The 4850ha Dharug National Park contains 16km of the convict-built Old Great North Road that once connected Sydney and Newcastle. As the third settlement in the Colony, Hawkesbury area is full of history and heritage as well as farm trails and artisan trails of great diversity.The visitor Centre staff are trained to help you find activities to suit you.


What to See & Do Macquarie Arms Hotel 1815 Windsor Court House 1821 The Toll House built in 1835 Have a meal at Hogs Breath and

enjoy rhe amazing panoramic Views St Monicas Church opened in 1859 Richmond Court House 1877 Macquarie Schoolhouse 1819 Ebenezer Church built – Australia’s

oldest church 1809 Check out Berowra Waters Go horse riding close to home Stay in a romantic B&B and get

away from it all Walk the Great North Road, built by

convicts in chain gangs

Top quality resort with a country feel

So many di�erent great things to do!Perfect for all your Special Occasions

1 and 2 night packages from $83pp

CALL US NOW ON 45 66 44 22

or go to www.wisemans.com.au

Rate valid for bookings from June - August 2011, subject to availability. * Conditions apply

• Introducing Rosie’s chicken •

BUSH BITESTAKE AWAY CAFE

Specialising in Fine Foods

Phone Orders Welcome 4566 4766SHOP 9 OLD NORTHERN ROAD, WISEMAN’S FERRY

Warm Friendly Service Always

BE RELIEVED- Natural Pain Relief- Arthritis- Back Pain/Sciatica- Headaches/Migraine- Cuts & Abrasions- Insect Bites & Stings

As Seen On A Current Affair

3050 Old Northern Road, Glenoriewww.aroma.com.au - [email protected]

Phone 9652 0555

Balanced Essentials is an Australian-owned aromatherapy company devoted to health and wellbeing, using the highest quality therapeutic essential oils in its extensive range of natural products for the face and body. The results of our ground-breaking research on our pain-relief products, BE Relieved and BE Sport, were recently featured on Channel Nine's A Current Affair.

BE Relieved is a topical application that is applied to the area where pain is located to help treat pain and inflammation. It is especially beneficial at night when you need a good night's sleep to help with recovery as it contains active ingredients that are sedative in nature.

$59.50 inc. GST

Balanced Essentials began as a vision in May 1996 to provide a balance between conventional and alternative therapy and to create, market and provide a special range of aromatherapy and essential oil products that lead the world in quality and therapeutic efficacy, enhancing the life experience of all people by introducing them to the benefits of essential oil solutions to balance health and emotions, supporting them in their quest to take charge of their own health and well-being.

Be Relieved


Farm Trails...

Drop in for coffee or maybe breakfast, lunch or dinner. Dine in the gallery or take in the magnificent views to Sydney from the back verandah.

Open Tuesday–Sunday 9-5pm Dinner Friday & Saturday from 6.30pm 83 Old Bells Line of Road Kurrajong Village Phone 4573 0988

www.sassafrascreek.com.au

Unique 170 year old abattoir on-site and

working. Both local and NSW beef, Lamb, Pork

and Goat with occasional Seasonal prawns and a

great variety of sausages. Unbeatable prices.Mon-Fri 7.00-6.00 Sat 7.00-2.00

M&A BUtchery62 King road, Wilberforce

02 4575 1233YOUR GUIDE TO THE HAWKESBURY’S

FINEST WORKSHOPS, STUDIOS & GALLERIES

July 2011 - July 2012

YOUR GUIDE TO THE HAWKESBURY’S FINEST WORKSHOPS, STUDIOS & GALLERIES

July 2011 - July 2012

Set in 8 ha of manicured, landscaped gardens, a perfect environment for business or pleasure, the romantic weekend escape, conference venue or special event. An array of facilities and services including the renowned Villa Thalgo Day Spa, Harvest Restaurant for a la carte dining or the Gazebo Restaurant for a light snack.

61 Richmond Rd, Windsor Phone 02 4577 4222

'Awash with Colour'watercolour and mixed media works by

Leanne JonesFeb 10 – March 22 2012

Leanne is a highly accomplished watercolorist who is mostly self taught. Her method of painting has taken many years to evolve and her watercolours address qualities of transparency, yet are marked by a strong use of colour. She enjoys painting a wide variety of subject matter in traditional and contemporary styles

cAFe OPeN tuesday to Friday 10am-2.30pm & Sunday 9am-4.30pm The beautiful Grounds of the historic homestead make Mamre the ideal location for you to celebrate your next special occassion

Private Function and conference rooms availableweddings • christenings • birthdays • anniversarys • life celebrations

For bookings phone 9670 6178181 Mamre Rd, Orchard Hills NSW 2748 www.mamre.com.au

Historic Mamre Homestead Autumn Plant Sale - 10% off all plants all month

Fine Dining 17 March - Bookings essential


ParramattaFoundation of ParramattaParramatta & District Historical SocietyFamily History Group meeting onSaturday January 7 at 1.30pm inthe Hambledon Coach House GregoryPlace Parramatta. Ample parking andeveryone welcome. Enquiries: Kerry 9896-3321, Jan 9683-7645Parramatta was founded in 1788 by Governor Arthur Phillip as a western outlying farm colony of Sydney. Initially it was called Rose Hill and was renamed Parramatta, an Aboriginal word meaning “head of waters,” or “the place where eels lie down”, the year after it was proclaimed a town in 1790.It was incorporated as a municipality in 1861, became a city in 1938 and was expanded in 1948, 1959, and 1972 by the inclusion of surrounding centres. Now Parramatta is a city within Sydney’s metropolitan area. It lies along the 15-mile or 24-km Parramatta River, which enters Port Jackson harbour. The Parramatta River Cat ferry takes passengers from Parramatta to Sydney along the River. The River Cat is a scenic and relaxing way to explore the waterways . Ferries are cheap and certainly a fast and pleasant way to travel all over Sydney. There are many pleasant places to eat, shop and even go to the theatre along the Parramatta River, not to mention stroll, fish or simply relax. Parramatta is famous for a wide variety of retail and dining options!Parramatta has many historic buildings, including Elizabeth Farm (Built in 1793, it is the nation’s oldest surviving European building). Old Government House (Built in 1799, it is the oldest public building in Australia). Experiment Farm Cottage (Built in 1834 it is the site of the first land grant). Hambledon Cottage (Built in 1824 by John and Elizabeth Macarthur for Penelope Lucas, Governor to the Macarthur children.The Kings School (1832). As Parramatta is once again becoming a more important

city centre and larger business buildings are being built, fascinating pieces of Parramatta’s past are being literally unearthed. In the foyer of some of the new buildings you will see glass around what was discovered and in the Justice Precinct you will find the remains of the earliest convict hospitals on display. The Parramatta Visitor Information Centre can tell you more about where to find these or for more information visit www.parracity.nsw.gov.au

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE346A Church St, Parramatta Ph: (02) 8839 3311 Fax: (02) 8839 3301 Email: discoverparramatta@

parracity.nsw.gov.au

...will take you there!

What to See & Do Try the ferry. A beautiful way to get

around a lot of places. Take a walk in Parramatta park

with its historic gatehouse, ponds and Old Government House, the oldest surviving government building in the country, finely furnished. Check out Riverside theatres and

restaurant. Take a walk along the river while you’re there. Visit Experiment Farm and Elizabeth

Farm. Olympic Park is an experience in

itself, close to Parramatta, on the ferry. Parramatta Farmers’ Markets,

produce, arts, crafts and more.

www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Riverside TheatresRiverside Theatres has announced its 2012 Season Program. The line-up of productions reflects the high calibre of productions on offer in Australia with a diverse range of Australian drama, comedy, circus and dance, ten additional special performance events, an education season, innovative creative workshops for people with disabilities and celebrated and emerging artists and work. “In 2012, Riverside presents live performance in all its forms – drama, dance, ballet, opera, circus, musicals and solo shows. It is a season that offers the unexpected and surprising, the new and familiar, the nostalgic and contemporary, the funny and fabulous,” said Director of Riverside, Robert Love. The season’s program features Let the Sunshine, Biddies, Dickens’ Women, Angela’s Kitchen, Australia Day, Don Quixote, The Land of Yes and The Land of No, Don Giovanni, The Wharf Revue, Circus Oz… I Love You, Bro, Wish I’d Said That, Every Single Saturday, Thank God it’s on Stage.

Our 2012 Riverside Subscription winners are Kate Fitzgerald who won online and Jan Aynsley of North Rocks. They will now choose the four shows they wish to attend with a guest from the subscription series. Congratulations Kate and Jan!

WIN SUBSCRIPTIONS TO 2012 RIVERSIDE

THEATRES

Two lucky readers can win a taste of the Riverside season, winning

double tickets to your choice of four of the shows from the 2012 season. One winner will come from postal

entry with name, address and phone on back of envelope sent to Blue Mountains iMAG, PO Box 602,

Lithgow NSW 2790. One winner will come from online entry to

[email protected] stating why this should be the winning

entry. Entries will be over this month and next.


Penrith Valley© Aerial photo Jeff Coles courtesy Penrith Council


VISITOR INFORMATION CENTREPanthers Carpark, Mulgoa Road, Penrith Open 7 days 9am – 4.30pm Email: [email protected]

www.penrithvalley.com.auPh: 1300 736 836 ...will take you there!

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

What to See & Do Visit the award winning Muru

Mittigar Aboriginal Cultural Centre for a range of experiences Visit Outback Steakhouse for

excellent fresh food and celebrations Taste and buy Japan style Sake

made here in Penrith from Australian rice at the Sun Masamune Sake Brewery Visit the excellent Penrith City

Library Enjoy a Family Astronomy Night at

the local observatory Penrith’s riverside parks provide

wonderful places for a family picnic Sailability? Try your hand at sailing

at the International Regatta Centre Attend a performance at the Joan

Sutherland Performing Arts Centre Panthers Leagues Club have some

great entertainment Penrith RSL have an amazing range

of performers Check out Model Park Open Day

for model trains, planes, boats & cars in action Visit Tench Reserve to view the

magnificent Nepean River Cruise on the Nepean River aboard

either the Nepean Belle or Penrith Platypus

Follow the Award Winning Visitor Centre on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/penrithvalley

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

Wildlife ShowEvery Sunday @ Mamre Homestead

181 Mamre Rd, Orchard Hills 2748 Turn onto Mamre Rd from the M4 (Sydney to Blue Mountains)

See Touch & Interact with Australia's Wildlife!

11am - 1.30pm, from March 11th 2012 - Just turn up! No bookings required!Adults $12 - Children (4-12) $8 - Kids under 3 FREE!

For additional details call us on (02) 9826 1864 or visit www.featheredfriends.com.au


The new Springwood Sports Club is located just off the main highway in the Lower Blue Mountains, and only 15 minutes from Penrith. Beautiful wood panelling, plush carpet and stylish stonework give a designer ambience that is warm and welcoming. The Club features indoor and alfresco dining areas, superb function rooms, gaming lounge, TAB and Keno plus two bowling greens. Whether you are exploring the area or just passing through, Springwood Sports Club is the ideal place for a refreshing drink, hot coffee, light snack or a delicious meal. Sweet Peppers Brasserie has great lunch and dinner menus full of favourites plus a big range of daily specials.There is also free live entertainment every Friday and Saturday nightplus Poker every Tuesday night and Trivia every Wednesday night.

Details:

Winner of the

2009 CLUB

and ENTERTAINMENTVENUE OF THE YEAR

Membership: 1 year $10 5 years $40

Springwood Sports Club

83 Macquarie Road, Springwood NSW 2777

Email: [email protected]:( 02) 4751 1298 Fax (02) 4751 2295

www.springwoodsports.com.au

SPRINGWOOD

Featuring*Indoor and Alfresco Dining Areas*Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials

*Superb Function Rooms*FREE Live Entertainment Fri and Sat

*Poker, Trivia, Raffles and Bingo*Gaming Lounge

*2 Bowling Greens*Courtesy Bus

What to See & Do Do you know that the giant bolts

in the rocks as you begin to climb the Mountains are there to stabilise the Lapstone Monocline ? The walking track from John Whitton

Memorial Place leads you to the Knapsack Viaduct. (Lapstone) Bluff Lookout (on the boundary of

Glenbrook and Lapstone) overlooks the Glenbrook Gorge and Glenbrook Creek. Adjacent to Warrimoo Station is Ardill

Park, which recently re-landscaped - a great resting place for the family. Don’t miss the Valley Heights

Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum, Ride the Valley Heights Tram

The Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum A magnificent collection of paintings, sculpture and ship models displayed in the artist’s former home.

• Landscaped Grounds • Cafe• Specialist Print and Book Shop• Home of ‘The Magic Pudding’

OpeN DaiLy 10am to 4pm (02) 4751 1067

14 Norman Lindsay Cres. FaulconbridgeNational Trust

Lower Blue Mountains www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

OPEN 10am - 4pm Thurs - Mon.OPEN Every Day in School Holidays except -Closed Christmas, Boxing,New Years Day,

Good Friday & Anzac Day

Ph 4758 6235 www.selwoodscience.com.au

41 Railway Pde, Hazelbrook(turn under the railway bridge at the traffic lights

at Hazelbrook then left to 41 Railway Parade)

Puzzles · Science Kits · Books · Displays

Hands on Fun for all the Family

Selwood Science& PuzzlES

© David Barnes, Dept Mineral Resources, Glenbrook Creek

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTREGreat Western Hwy, GlenbrookCentre open Mon-Fri 9.00am to 5pm and 8.30am - 4.30pm Weekends and

Public Holidays Ph: 1300 653 408 ...will take you there!

Across the Nepean River through Emu Plains, Leonay and Lapstone, travel west along the Great Western Highway to Glenbrook to reach the Blue Mountains Tourist Information Centre on the left of the highway. Blaxland, named after explorer Gregory Blaxland (1771-1852) provides the opportunity to examine Lennox Bridge. Built in 1833. Springwood follows Warrimoo and Valley Heights and was the first town named in the Blue Mountains.Faulconbridge follows, famous home of Norman Lindsay and the burial site of Sir Henry Parkes, the “Father of Federation”. Continuing higher are Linden, the smallest mountain community, Woodford of the Woodford Academy and the Bulls Camp, now a pleasant picnic spot and leash free area, then Hazelbrook . We then reach Lawson, named after explorer William Lawson (1774-1850).

Selwood Is Brilliant!If you are looking for a special gift for a child, student or adult, you’ll be dazzled by the choice available at Selwood Science and Puzzles.They have well over 1000 items suitable for all ages always in stock. You may shop online or visit the delightful heritage premises for lots of hands-on fun puzzles, games and activities to enjoy.You mustn’t miss their new high voltage lightning show, especially designed for Selwood Science, generating sparks over a metre long. This is a 12 minute show featuring a Van de Graaff generator, Jacob's Ladder and the amazing Tesla Coil for $6-adults, $4 child, $20 family. You will be so close you will be able to see, hear, feel and smell the power! You’ll enjoy the holograms, interacting with the floating bottle, talking mirror, faces that always look at you…Your spending at Selwood may also go towards entry in the Win a Bufori competition!

5


Wentworth Falls www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

© Whispering Pines

What to See & Do With the numerous spectacular

walks and views within Wentworth Falls, visitors should allow at least a day to enjoy the area at leisure. From Falls Road start the Charles

Darwin Walk. The Darwin walk is well sign posted leading from the Great Western Highway, and along Falls Road. Explore the delightful Village of

Wentworth Falls with its shops and the Lake the other side of the Highway.

The perfect start or finish point for the many stunning bushwalks in the area, including the award-winning National Pass, The Conservation Hut cafe is located at the top of the Valley of the Waters in Wentworth Falls and has wide-ranging views over the Jamison Valley, part of the beautiful and World-heritage listed Blue Mountains National Park.

The ‘Hut’ was originally built in the early 1960’s by members of the Blue Mountains Conservation Society as a place for bushwalkers to visit during their walk. The original hut was destroyed by fire & replaced in the late 80’s. The current building was designed to fit in with it’s natural environment, part of the design was also to house 2 magnificent paintings by Reinis Zusters.

Wentworth Falls, one of the most beautiful Blue Mountains towns, offers possibly the most spectacular bushwalks and views. Originally called ‘Weatherboard’ after the ‘Weatherboard Hut’ built in 1814, a year later the town was named ‘Jamison’s Valley’ by Governor Macquarie. In July 1867 the historic first railway journey in the Blue Mountains left Penrith station and travelled through to Weatherboard Station where the train terminated. It wasn’t until 1879 that the name was changed to Wentworth Falls in honour of William Charles Wentworth. The area

known as ‘Kings Tableland’ offers almost haunting views. Care must be taken within this area to preserve the ancient Aboriginal site, Kings Table. It has been calculated via carbon dating that the land was occupied some 22,000 years ago! Further west along the Great Western Highway on the north side is Pitt Park and the Wentworth Falls School of Arts. ‘The Bathurst Traveller’, later renamed ‘Weatherboard Inn’ was an inn Built in 1826 at Pitt Park. Charles Darwin, the renowned scientist was reported to have stayed here around 1836.

The paintings were donated to the people of the Blue Mountains in thanks for providing Reinis & his wife a home after WW2.It remains home to the Blue Mountains Conservation Society who hold meetings, open to everyone, here on the last Friday of every month.Whether starting or finishing a walk, our menu caters for a range of needs.

Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch & light snacksCosy log fire in winter, BYO

Bookings recommendedPh 4757 3827

www.conservationhut.com.au

The Conservation Hut

Located in Blue Mountains National Park

· Ideal start and �nish point for many beautiful walks · Stunning views over the Jamison Valley

· Disabled access · Family groups

welcome•Weekend dinner during daylight saving months

The Conservation Hut


About the Gallery

Established in the Blue Mountains in 1989, Falls Gallery continues to provide a constantly changing exhibition of works on paper and ceramics by some of Australia’s major contemporary artists.The gallery is located in Falls Road, Wentworth Falls and is housed in an early 1900’s weatherboard cottage. It is situated in a magical mountain garden and is a mere two minutes walk from the waterfall and national park lookouts.The Directors of the gallery are Ian Smith, a potter and Anne Smith, a painter and printmaker.Showing work by emerging and established artists, including some of by some of Australia’s major, most collected and acclaimed artists.On display at the Gallery are works by Garry Shead and Wendy Sharpe, Arthur Boyd and John Olsen, Max Miller, Anne Smith, Bernard Ollis and Andrew Sibley, together with ceramics by Ian Smith and Andrew Halford.As well as producing their own work Anne Smith has collaborated with Wendy Sharpe, Garry Shead, Bernard Ollis and the late Alan Peascod on editions of their etchings and Ian Smith collaborates with Garry Shead, Bernard Ollis and Wendy Sharpe in producing ceramics with their underglaze decoration.The aim of the Gallery is to have continually changing exhibitions of works on paper and ceramics by established and emerging artists. The collection covers many years and there are rare etchings by such artists as Arthur Boyd and John Olsen.

161 falls rd, wentworth fallsphone: 02 4757 1139 hours: 10am –5pm Wednesday to Sundaywww.fallsgallery.com.au


Bygone Beautys AntIquES & tEAROOM

Come and visit...

and see the amazingtreasured teapot Collection

“World’s largest Private Collection”20 - 22 GROSE St, LEuRA

Ph: 4784 3117 Fax: 4784 3078Open 7 Days 10am - 5.30pm

www.bygonebeautys.com.au

Come in & enjoy our famous Devonshire Tea

You’ve reached what is now referred to as the Upper Blue Mountains, where cool climate plants are the focus of many a garden.Rivalling Katoomba as the most visited location in the Blue Mountains, Leura offers The Mall, a shoppers paradise alive with coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, galleries.I defy you to desire any movie or music and not find it or get it from Ray at Hits & Myths! This man keeps me sane and in love as well as awake and alert at the wheel. He can find those things I can’t live without as well as something new I didn’t know I couldn’t live without. Renommee is the cottage in the Leura car park that specialises in chic contemporary recycle designer and one-off pieces for those who want to look absolutely stunning in a designer outfit at a reasonable price. Pauline also stocks a superb range of Japanese kimonos and haoris. There are designer shoes and accessories as well. With new stock arriving regularly, the shop is simply a delight and inspiration.

Megalong Books has the most amazing range of the most amazing books on so many subjects I keep wondering how they do it! The staff are also so knowledgeable and helpful. Come to Leura just for fun or for some really serious bargains… but come you must… it is so special!

What to See & Do Toy and Railway Museum, located

within Leuralla mansion. The museum features Australia’s largest collection of toys, dolls, teddy bears and model railways, located on the corner of Olympian Parade and Balmoral Road. Opposite the Toy and Railway

Museum is Olympian Park featuring a natural amphitheatre with spectacular views. Gardens, Shopping, Food and Art! Awesome views from Sublime Point Leura Cascades along Cliff Drive is

a peaceful setting for a family picnic or BBQ

Leura Village www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

© M Edwards Leura Mall

General and Children’s Bookshop

Blue Mountains History, Maps and

GuidebooksDVDs and Classical

Music CDsOrders taken

Open 7 days

The best books in the mountains!

183 The Mall, leura(02) 4784 1302

Email: [email protected] Web: www.megalongbooks.com.au

From the Cascades you can leisurely walk to several waterfalls including Leura, Linda, Lila and Bridal Veil Falls. You can also walk to Copelands Lookout and Flying Fox Lookout. Mount Hay Road takes you to the

beautiful untouched Mount Hay region


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Dark Night... An exhibition by Glenn Ray & Gayle Pollard

Lost Bear Gallery presents an intriguing exhibition of artworks by Glenn Ray & Gayle Pollard, starting Thursday 1st March.Glenn and Gayle are known to many locals as the proprietors of Katoomba’s long established and much loved Avalon Restaurant. With the demands of running a successful restaurant, it’s amazing to think that they have the time to produce any art at all, let alone an exhibition of such quality.Perhaps their art provides the perfect escape to balance an otherwise busylife. The paintings, though stylistically different, share a sensibility, which at glance could be mistaken as collaboration. Gayle defines brooding landscapes with light & shade. Her expansive, strange and sometimes menacing places are complemented by Glenn¹s dark musings. Whilst Gayle draws you into unknown destinations via overgrown mysterious pathways, Glenn will take you to a mystical destination populated with bizarre emblematic combinations of symbols & myths.Lost Bear Gallery is open daily from 10-5 and is located within the Leura Post Office building. The gallery can be contacted on 4784 1440. To preview exhibition visit www.lostbeargallery.com.au .

Pan & Syrinx oil on linen 61cm x 47cm 2011 by Glenn Ray

Into the Abyss oil on canvas 150cm x 175cm 2012 by Gayle Pollard


Bleu Mountains Accommodation and Tourism Association

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Blue Mountains Accommodation and Tourism Association

Visitors now have an easier way to find available accommodation while they are in the Blue Mountains. Many people pre-book their accommodation before they come to the mountains, but there are still loads who don’t. Once you are in the Blue Mountains, it is sometimes tricky to find the rich variety of accommodation on offer – and in busy times even trickier to find a place that suits your needs and has availability.Once there was the ‘duty motel’ sign on the highway. Now there is the QR Code!The QR Code is a physical link to a website – in this case to a website where the visitor can find places to ‘get in tonight’ – which is its name getintonight.com.auThe ‘Get in Tonight’ QR Code which you will see in this magazine was placed some weeks ago, and like all printed material, is static. However, when a visitor scans it with his smartphone he is presented with a choice of accommodation venues that has availability tonight. Up to the minute information in a format that is concise and easy to view. Once he finds something suitable, he simply taps on the phone icon on the smartphone screen and he is connected directly to the chosen accommodation reception desk.The visitor can also use the same QR Code to view all accommodation on offer by township or by type. And the Blue Mountains Accommodation and Tourism association will shortly be bringing a similar smartphone application to help visitors find restaurants, venues, attractions and tours that they can ‘get in now’. For more information:Bill McCabe – Vice President, Blue Mountains Accommodation and Tourism AssociationTel: 4757 1449 Mobile: 0422 449 732E: [email protected]


© David Barnes, Department of Mineral Resources NSW

Katoomba www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Fast Facts Katoomba has something for

everyone: entertainment, art galleries, restaurants, trendy cafes, shopping, antiques and collectables, walks and activities, not to mention its being surrounded by natural beauty.

The Three Sisters may be viewed from Echo Point. Many bushwalks start from this point, including the Three Sisters Walk and Giant Stairway.

In town, you’ll find an array of boutiques and all seasons clothing, as

well as cosy dining experiences to suit all budgets and tastes.

What to See & Do Visit Echo Point Visitor Information

Centre for information and views. Visit The Scenic World Skyway Eat in fine-dining restaurants or have

coffee and cake in Art Deco cafés. Take a guided bushwalk, a 4WD drive,

or learn to abseil – all in the splendour of this majestic wilderness area.

Eplore the thriving local art scene Enjoy the daily screenings at The Edge

Cinema, with its six-storey screen and feature film on the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains. Explore The Carrington Hotel, built in

1882, an elegant reminder of a bygone era, with its many events, one of only two superb Heritage Dining experiences in Australia and other restorations. Enjoy the art and culture walk. Check out whats on at Varuna.

use) spice blends called ‘Spiceshots®’ which taste amazing with 8 additional blends ready to launch to the market-place.Spiceshots have been heat-sealed in individual foil packs and are designed for single use as bbq rubs, or sprinkled over meat, seafood or vegetables prior to oven roasting or grilling.They also sell a fantastic product called the “Weekend Survival Box”, containing x5 Spiceshots plus recipe cards. These are perfect for BBQ’ing at home, taking away to holiday rentals or your own holiday houses, or giving to friends as gifts, as they are already pre-blended.Another product on offer is called “Tasty Bird Food” (a hand toasted muesli). Tasty Bird Food is a freshly roasted blend of cereal ingredients, toasted nuts and dried fruit. This muesli

Katoomba Slow FoodThe Director of SpiceDeluxe, Justine Todd launched the company in late 2010 and they are located in the Blue Mountains in NSW.Their spice blends are free of additives; preservatives and ‘fillers’ such as celery salt and onion powder, only containing pure hand roasted and ground spices.SpiceDeluxe currently offer 5 (single

is healthy and fantastic.Lastly they offer a delicious Trail mix called “Take a Hike”, great to eat while bushwalking, at work, after exercise or at school and is a healthy snack alterna-tive to chips or peanuts.You can visit SpiceDeluxe at http://www.spicedeluxe.com.au

BBQ Prawn SkewersUsing SpiceDeluxe ‘Moroccan Memo-ries’ Spiceshots® (Ras el Hanout)Serves 2-4Ingredients:One packet Moroccan Memories Spiceshots3 tbsp natural unsweetened yoghurt500gm large uncooked prawns (shelled, deveined, tail intact)2 tbsp Olive oil2 limes (4 cheeks reserved)

BBQ Prawn Skewers Recipe Continued page 20 ...


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SAVE MONEY & BOOK ALL YOUR ADMISSIONS TO VENUES AT THE TROLLEY SHOPPE!

76 MAIN STREET KATOOMBA (Opposite Pedestrian crossing at Katoomba Railway Station) PH. FREECALL 1800 801 577www.trolleytours.com.au

Concessions Available

29 GREAT ATTRACTIONS

…and see the best of the BLUE MOUNTAINS Take a ride on a Unique Trolley Bus! 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. Hop on and hop off at any of the 29 Great Attractions. TROLLEY TOUR RUNS HOURLY.Your $25 All Day Trolley Tour Pass entitles you to many discounts. 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.TROLLEY SHUTTLE RUNS EVERY 30 MINUTES BETWEEN KATOOMBA, ECHO POINT AND SCENIC WORLD.

Trolley ToursIs bushwalking one of your favourite activites? The Blue Mountains National Park has long been renowned as one of the finest bushwalking areas in the World. Cascading waterfalls, breath-taking panoramas, fern filled gullies, hanging swamps, rainforests, an abundance of bird life and magnificent flowers await your discovery. You can access these magnificent bushwalks by means of the hourly Hop On Hop Off “Trolley Tour” starting from Katoomba daily at 9-45am. The trolley bus offers the opportunity to alight at the start of a bushwalk, and rejoin at the next stop, without retracing your steps. A good example would be the Gordon Falls bushwalk to Leura Cascades which is graded medium and takes one hour.

Method:Mix Moroccan Memories with yoghurt in a glass or stainless steel mixing bowl. Add prawns and coat thoroughly. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate overnight (or for 1 hour at least).Remove from fridge and thread prawns (lengthways) onto wooden (pre-soaked) or metal skewers.Lightly coat with olive oil and then cook on preheated BBQ or grill plate (medium heat) for 5 minutes.Serve immediately with freshly cut lime cheeks.Serving suggestions:A seasonal garden salad (rocket, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, capsicum, goats cheese, spring onions) and slices of warm crusty bread.Recipe Inspiration: Spain


Blackheath at 1025m abve sea level is 114 km from Sydney and most famous for its November Rhododendron Festival. The Blackheath Rhododendron Gardens are in Baccante Street. The town’s shopping centre has a delightfully relaxed village atmosphere. Blackheath is filled with natural beauty and there are many breathtaking views and bush walks to experience. Blackheath is full of colonial history. The first building in Blackheath was "The Scotch Thistle Inn" erected by Andrew Gardner in 1831. The Inn was visited by the renowned scientist Charles Darwin in 1836. The site for "The Scotch Thistle Inn" was located slightly south of the present Gardners Inn Hotel.On the outside of the famous Victory Theatre antique centre is one of the town’s proudest displays, a colourful mural designed by local artist Jenny Kee and painted in 1985 by members of the local community on behalf of the Blackheath Area Neighbourhood Centre. It has been recently refurbished by this proud community.

Blackheath/Mt VictoriaMt Victoria Fast Facts Mount Victoria is the most westerly

Blue Mountains township - 120 kilometres from Sydney and 1043 metres above sea-level. It is a small very charming historic

village originally named 'One Tree Hill' on a map from 1834 - the name changed in 1876 when the first Post Office was built. There is a large number of historic

buildings, including the Imperial Hotel -1878, St Peter's Church of England -1874, Closeburn House-1885, The Manor House, built by John Fairfax in 1876 and the Toll Keepers Cottage -1849. In Mount Victoria and close by you

have Victoria Falls, Victoria Pass, Mt York, Bede's, Sunset Rock & Mitchell's Ridge Look-outs, beautiful Bushwalks and the Mount Victoria Historical Museum. Some of the Historic buildings are

now beautiful 1st class accommodation facilities and combined with their


© David Barnes, Department of Mineral Resources NSW

Open 7 Days 10am - 5pm

~Largest Antique store west of Sydney with the greatest

variety in the Blue Mountains~

22A Govetts Leap Rd, BLACKHEATHPhone (02) 4787 5573

‘dare to be different’

• Locally made and imported jewellery

and clothing • Games, puzzles

and cards • Handbags, shawls

and drapes • Candles

• Exclusive gift lines

• Skincare products

What to See & Do The Kanimbla Valley Walking Tracks,

which take in Pulpit Rock, Bede’s Lookout, Reinitz Pass and Ross Cave. The array of buildings and boutique

shops selling antiques, craft and bric-a-brac The walking track that will take you

to Victoria Falls. Mount Victoria Historical Museum

located in the old refreshment rooms at the Railway Station. First release films at Mount Vic Flicks. Visit the Blue Mountains Heritage

Centre, at the end of Govetts leap Road, Blackheath. There is an interactive display of how the mountains were made, a theatrette and gallery. Open everydayexcept Christmas Day, from 9.00am to 4.30pm.

At the end of Govetts leap Road, Blackheath

Blue Mountains Heritage Centre

Open everyday except Christmas Day 9.00am to 4.30pm.Phone: 4787 8877

fine food and other restaurants, make staying in Mount Victoria another must for your 'Top of the Mountains Adventure’


C l o s e b u r n H o u s e2 Closeburn Drive, Mount Victoria

Open Friday 4-9pm, Saturday 8am-9pm, Sunday 8am-4pm For Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Morning and Afternoon Tea. Delicious takeaway pizzas also available

Closeburn House offers a superb venue for overnight stays, weddings & functions for up to 90 guests, with customised menu to suit your function. We are pet friendly, able to provide facilities for dogs and horses. Please book. Closeburn House provides nine spacious private well appointed ensuite guest rooms upstairs, each with its own character, delightful views of the extensive grounds and gardens, TV, tea and coffee making facilities. Downstairs facilities include the café, art gallery throughout the whole ground floor including halls, lounge and library areas. Find us on Facebook !

www.closeburnhouse.com [email protected] Ph: 02 4787 1555 - Fax: 02 4787 1318

The Human Enigma Exhibition, showcased at Ashcroft Restaurant (Blackheath) from 9 March to 9 June 2012, has captured the true essence and simplicity of people around the world.International artist and photographer Matthew Lees presents an amazing photographic exhibition, The Human Enigma, opening on the 9th of March, 2012 @ Ashcroft Restaurant in Blackheath.The exhibition provides a rare insight into the complexity and mystery of the human enigma while showcasing

the artist’s stunning creativity across a range of mediums. Matthew’s photography focuses on capturing a single moment in the life of individuals around the world and seeks to bring out the raw emanating energy and emotion of his subjects.“ Art in any medium that lacks emotion is not a true form of self expression” says Matthew.While working for the Royal Air Force, Matthew travelled the world and developed a passion for capturing beautiful landscapes and candid images. In 2004, Matthew left the military and in 2008 he undertook an epic overland journey from London to Sydney, visiting sixteen beautiful countries including Iran, Cambodia, Turkey and many more. Throughout his travels, Matthew created an amazing portfolio of photographs that so faithfully portray the fragility and beauty of humanity and the human experience in its many forms.Matthew’s travels and passion have culminated in this truly unique

Capturing the Energy & Emotion of people around the World

exhibition which opens on the 9th of March and is held at the exquisite Ashcroft Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of beautiful Blackheath, it is the perfect venue for the Human Enigma Exhibition and will be show cased until 9 June 2012.This is an experience not to be missed; one which will leave you appreciating how uniquely different we are as humans.For more information about the exhibition, contact Matthew Lees at [email protected] or visit his website www.matthewlees.comFind us on facebook


The GalleryMt Victoria Museum

Huge Collection of unusual Museum Pieces,

well worth a visit!

Open 2pm - 5pm Weekends, Public Holidays and School Holidays

Located at Mt Victoria Train Station

Victoria & Albert Guesthouse

R E S T A U R A N T C A F E

Restaurant Open 6.30pm Wednesday to Saturday

Café Open 10am to 3pm Wednesday to Sunday

Inquire about bookings for all your special occasions and Mt Vic Flicks meal deals

19 Station Street, Mount VictoriaPh: 4787 1241

www.victoria-albert.com.au

19 Station Street, Mt Victoria NSW 2786Ph: 02 4787 1241, Fax: 02 4787 1588Emaiol: [email protected]

www.victoria-albert.com.au

• Spa Suites • Ensuite Rooms • Heritage Restaurant and Verandah Cafe • Al Fresco

Dining Available • Spa, Sauna & Pool Exclusively for Guests only • Weddings,

Functions and All Special Occasions • Seasonal Celebrations and Murder Mystery evenings

Victoria & AlbertGuest House

Where Yesterday Meets Tomorrow

1 station Street, Mount Victoria Ph: 02 4787 1878w w w. ho tel imp er i a l . c om . au

The Imperial HotelLocated in Mount Victoria at the top of the Blue Mountains,

the hotel features spacious lounges, bar, pool room, open fireplaces, elegant dining and excellent brasserie meals (Western & Chinese food).

Rooms vary from traditional style and heritage ensuites to the romantic Imperial Suite for that special occasion. Weekend and mid week packages are available to suit all budgets

Inquire about functions and Mt Vic Flicks meal deals at the Imperial Hotel

Blackheathfamily shoe store

Offering a range of specialised shoes to help problem feet feel comfortableStocking: NAOT - Ecco - Florsheim Hogl - Merrell - Rohde - GaborJosef Seibel - Pindiere-Sandler Rieker - Beautifeel

open seven days4 govetts leap rd blackheath(02) 4787 8263

Closeburn House is a comfortable peaceful mountain retreat with everything going for it. It is ideal for a wedding followed by honeymoon or a great place to unwind for a while. It is close enough to large centres for there to be plenty of varied activities. You can be self sufficient, go for splendid walks, visit wineries or art galleries, enjoy the views, browse local antique and book shops, go horse riding or hang gliding, visit the gardens or simply relax in the ample grounds and facilities provided by Closeburn.

Closeburn HouseThe experienced chef will delight you. Discuss your requirements when booking.


LOCAL NEWS & WEATHERRADIO IN THE MOUNTAINS

2LT is 900 on the AM

Don't miss "Let's Talk" weekday afternoons

from 1pm to 4pm follow us on facebook

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lets-Talk-on-900-2LT/193241560706748

Budget AccommodationSelf contained

Cabins & Cottagesfrom $70 per night

63 Prince Edward St., Blackheath 2785

Telephone 02 4787 8534


Sydney Morning Herald Autumn of the Arts at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah

The Sydney Morning Herald ‘Autumn of the Arts’ is a celebration of the connection between nature and the arts with a full line up of special events at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah.This year the Garden is thrilled to announce a program of events to match the splendour of the garden, headlined by acclaimed Aussie band FourPlay, a string quartet renowned for their energetic and powerful performances that blur the boundaries between genres. Autumn is a superb time of year to visit as breathtaking arrays of oranges, yellows, reds and browns transform the Garden. Expect to see viburnum, berberis, cotoneaster, holly and rowan ripe with cheerful fruits, while the russet tones of turning leaves combine to provide spectacular colour. See What’s on for our Autumn of the Arts – March programThe Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah also offers The Jungle Lodge for a secluded stay, weddings, and community workshops for adults and school holiday fun for the kids.Entry to the garden is free.Call: 02 4567 3000 / Restaurant Tomah 02 4567 2060 Email: [email protected] Find us on Facebook www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au

•Enjoybeautifulautumncolours•DiscovertheGreaterBlueMountainsWorldHeritageExhibitionCentre•GoonanAdventureQuest•Takeaguidedtour•TreatyourselfattheGardenShop•StayattheJungleLodge

• Planaperfectwedding•Soakupspectacularwildernessviewsfromtherestaurant.T:45672060

Your GardenMon–Fri9am–5.30pm

Weekends&publicholidays9.30am–5.30pm

BellsLineofRd,MountTomahT:45673000FREEENTRY

ForAutumnoftheArtseventsinformationgotoautumnofthearts.com.auTHEBLuEMouNTAiNSBoTANiCGARDEN,MouNTToMAH

YouRGarden


TRAINS RUNNING DAILY: Friday to Monday from Clarence Station PLEASE CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR SCHEDULED DEPARTURE TIMES

and The Fat Controllerwill visit the

Zig Zag Railway in the

Come and Enjoy...A steam train ride with‘Thomas the Tank Engine’

A Little Thomas Ride with Annie and Clarabel

Jumping Castle Merry-go-round

Pedal Trains and much more

April School Holidays 13th to 15th 2012

(Friday to Sunday)

10% Discount!

Present this token for a 10% discount on

Thomas Merchandise Code: imag012012

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Hartley & Surrounds www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

© Margaret Edwards

Hartley Area

After the decline in Hartley as a township from the late 1800’s, now we are seeing the redevelopment of the areas of Hartley, Hartley Vale and Little Hartley.

Unfortunately, Hartley was by-passed by the railway and, over a period, fell into disuse. Luckily, today we are left with a remarkable remnant of a town largely unchanged since the mid-nineteenth century.

Hartley Historical Village is a remarkable time capsule well worth visiting and there is a range of refreshments available on either side of the highway. We are also blessed with artists of various persuasions and several nurseries.

You may enjoy the spectacular scenery that has inspired them.

♠ The best burgers in town! ♠ Ample parking and safe to pull in. ♠ Good fresh home cooked food from local produce♠ Come in and enjoy the atmosphere in a traditional friendly roadside diner.♠ Book your birthday, anniversary, reunion, social club, special event with us. ♠ Eat in and take-away. ♠ Free Coffee for drivers ♠ Open 6 days

Ful l Throttle Diner

2430 Great Western Hig hway, Hartley. Ph : 6355 2275

Closed on MondaysDaily lunch specials

Book your party or event now!

Walks

Cox’s Road - built in 1815 and not used after 1824

Lawson’s Long Alley - which opened in 1824 and closed when Victoria Pass opened in 1832

Lockyer’s Pass - which was never completed because of the opening of Victoria Pass

Berghofer’s Pass - A lovely short walk with great views of Hartley Valley along a pre-WWI road, built for the early motor vehicles which couldn’t negotiate the steep grades of Victoria Pass

The Old Shale Railway Walk - The Old Shale Railway Walk follows the path of the railway that used to bring the shale up from Hartley Vale

Hassan’s Walls - spectacular views of the Blue Mountains and Hartley Valley.

Mt. Victoria Falls - Victoria Falls Lookout - leads to lovely swimming holes, high

cascades and a myriad of track junctions you can follow. A wonderful day’s outing for all the family as the walks are easy to medium


• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Hartley Valley Owners’ Company Ltd. “Rosedale” 2187 Great Western HwyLittle Hartley NSW 2790 Phone: 02 6355 2244 Fax: 02 6355 2131

Escape the pressures of city life at your own country getaway

Enjoy accommodation in one of 30 comfortable, self contained cabins located in blocks of 5 on ridges around the farm. Each block enjoys stunning views across Little Hartley Valley to the Mt York escarpment - the perfect setting to unwind in front of an open �re at the end of another happy day at the farm.

Indulge in life at the farm, or use it as a base from which to explore the Blue Mountains and other local attractions such as the Zig Zag Railway, the Jenolan Caves and the restaurants and wineries of the Mountains and Central West.

Hartley Valley Holiday Farm was established in 1977 as an Owner’s Co-operative, and ownership is strictly limited. This is not a time share, you can use the farm as often as you like. It is an a�ordable way for families to enjoy farm life in a safe and relaxing environment. The farm’s on-site Manager and his team look after the day to day running of the farm so Owners and their families are free to relax and enjoy their time at the farm.

Owners are more than welcome to bring guests to the farm who may then utilise the horse and bike facilities for a modest daily fee.

For more information or to arrange an inspection of Little Hartley Farm, contact the o�ce or log onto the farm’s website.

HARTLEY VALLEY HOLIDAY FARMYour Holiday Home in the CountryJust 90 mins drive from SydneyOwn a share in 370 acres of prime land in picturesque Little Hartley

Meet new friends and give your family the chance to experience farm life whenever you like. Your share in the farm entitles you and your immediate family to year round access to Little Hartley Farm and its facilities including:• Accommodation for 6 in your own self contained cabin (incl. kitchen and bathroom) • Weekly riding lessons catering to all levels on the farm’s vibrant herd of horses and ponies• Supervised trail rides through the farm’s beautiful bushland and open paddocks• Friendly shetland ponies for riders under 7 years • Day facilities for privately owned horses• Enclosed riding arenas, round yard and jumps• Regular gymkhanas, riding and horsemanship clinics with visiting instructors • 26 acre competition standard dirt bike track • Regular dirt bike competitions • 2 x cement tennis courts with floodlights • 20 metre swimming pool• Camping area for tents and caravans • Recreation room with pool table and table tennis • BMX bike track• BBQs and outdoor open fires • Communal kitchen/ dining room for events and functions• Some private horse agistment available

There’s nothing quite like Little Hartley Farm anywhere in Australia – in fact owners will tell you it’s the best kept secret on earth!Buying a share in Little Hartley Farm gives you shared ownership of the property and its facilities as well as unlimited free access to the Farm’s activities including horse and trail bike riding.

Web: http://www.hartleyfarm.com.au/


Werriberri Trail Rides Pty. Ltd. has relocated to 908 Jenolan Caves Rd Good Forest. We still have our wonderful reliable horses and a few new ones. We have some Amazing new tracks and the same friendly helpful guides. Kathy’s Dad at 79yrs is back in the saddle he just can't resist the new tracks.Private secluded romantic trips for proposals, a girls day out or bucks trips can be arranged.Diverse range of scenery in the outstanding Blue Mountains high country.Werriberri Trail Rides is a family concern run by Kathy Tucker and the team. All rides are accompanied by experienced guides. The trails feature some of Australia's most beautiful

Werriberri Trail Rides

ph 02 4787 9171w w w. a u s t r a l i a n b l u e h o r s e r i d e s . c o m . a u

"Come and check out our

backyard!"

• Horses to suit all ages and abilities• Hourly, day & overnight rides• Pubstays & campouts

Werriberri Trail Ridesscenery, cool streams, forests and a variety of wildlife. Wonderful country to explore on horseback includes Mt York historic sites, Mt Victoria, Bonfire Hill at Hampton, Cullen Bullen and Kandos. There are horses to suit all ages and abilities and all horses are graded to suit the ability of the riders. We offer enjoyable inexpensive horse riding for all ages and abilities and also do Pub Crawls and Camp Outs. The new tracks feature native wildlife, amazing 360 degree views from the top of Black ridge. There are 15 different day rides covering the Blue Mountains and Central Western districts, 1hour trail rides suitable for 5yrs and over, many other rides to choose from, Pony rides to suit the littlies.


Surprisingly diverseLithgow

For a free copy of the new

Lithgow Visitor GuideLithgow Visitor Information CentreGreat Western Highway, (PO Box 19 Lithgow NSW 2790)T: 1300 760 276 or (02) 6350 3230, F: (02) 6350 3239E: [email protected]

www.tourism.lithgow.com

Lithgow Pottery, Australia’s oldest commercial pottery Lithgow Show – 16 & 17 March

Tasty local produce

march 2012.indd 1 6/02/12 7:40 PM


Lithgow www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Set amidst mountain splendour, Lithgow is a town rich in culture. Immerse yourself in Aboriginal tradition, step back in time to an era where steam dominated transport and when industry was our backbone

© Tourism NSW

Discover Lithgow’s accessible wilderness. With tranquil vistas and serene landscapes, the environment is abundant in wildlife and picturesque mountain panoramas.The Lithgow region is nature’s

playground. Canyoning and rock climbing, in areas ten times older than the Grand Canyon, are experiences never to be forgotten. There are also magnificent 4WD tracks to explore. The choice of adventure is up to you.

BILL'S OLD FASHIONED CAKES & PIES

70 Main Street, Lithgow

Ph 6351 3612Open 6am-5.30pm Monday-Friday

7am-2.30pm Saturday

Alena Knit & CraftNorma at Alena Knit & Craft prides herself on her comprehensive range of Knitting and crochet yarns, needles and accessories with a range of patterns to suit whatever you may want to make. Her years of experience and desire to help with your project will delight you. She also carries a full range of DMC threads and products for Cross stitch, embroidery, tapestry and crochet.There is a range of crosswords, puzzles, soft toys as well as kits for craft projects.This wonderful little shop is a great place for locals and travellers to enjoy skills that have been around for generations and that can be enjoyed while travelling, sitting in groups, convalescing or as a means of gaining satisfaction from a new skill. They make great affordable gifts.

Alena Knit & Craft

Shop 80 Main Street, Lithgow 2790 P hone: (02) 6352 3380

Fax: (02) 6352 5877

Knitting Yarn & Accessories

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pmSaturday 10am - 2pm

The Lithgow Show Society would like to invite you once again to our annual Agricultural Show. This year, as with every year, we are planning to have the biggest and best show to date on the 16th and 17th March 2012.This years show will bring great family entertainment with everything from the popular pavilion exhibits and animal nursery to our major entertainment which this year includes, The Outback Thunda Monster Truck and his mini accomplice as well as a Jet Powered Quad and the human inferno, on Saturday evening we have the Lithgow Show Rodeo followed by a

fantastic Fireworks display.Our show is still a country show with all the popular pavilion exhibits including Photography, Arts and Crafts, Needlework, Horticulture and many more. It is a great display of local talents and provides a little friendly competition, we are always looking for more local people to enter their work. If you would like to enter any of these competitions please visit www.lithgowshow.org.au/schedules.htmlThe Lithgow Show Society is a not for profit organisation who relies on generous volunteers giving their time to help run the Lithgow Show. We are

always looking for more helpers in areas including office based work, working with animals, stewards and helping to set up the pavilion for the show. It’s a very rewarding and satisfying job and a great bunch of people to work with. If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact Vanetta Renshaw on 02 6353 1775 or email [email protected] visit www.lithgowshow.org.au for more informationWe hope to see you and your family at the show this year.

The Lithgow Show


Open: Thurs, Fri, Sat from 10am until late & Sundays from 10 til 4.Drop in for morning tea, lunch or afternoon tea. Bookings essential for dinner.

35 Crane Road, Lithgow - Phone: 02 6352 1133www.secretcreekcafe.com Email: [email protected]

The home of AEFI is located at Secret Creek Sanctuary.Visit our website at www.ausecosystems.org.au for information on how you can become a member and show your support for Australian wildlife

Secret Creek Restaurant, Set on 1000 acre conservation reserve.

Secret Creek Café and Restaurant have launched their new dinner menu designed to showcase local and sustainable produce. All meats are free range and ethically produced in harmony with the establishment, with “nose to tail” cooking a priority.The new menu is emphasising native and seasonal fresh produce and of course it is absolutely delicious as usual.You will find Ormiston free range pork from Mudgee and Wellington Farm salt bush lamb as well as the wide range of multi-award winning cheeses from Jannei goat dairy at Lidsdale.The prices, delightful surroundings, friendly quality service levels and the 1000 acres of endangered animal eco foundation that surround the Restaurant are things at Secret Creek that always please. You will find there are the same people looking after you, both at the table and cooking the food.Furthering the sustainability aims throughout the Eco Foundation, through to the way we live and support the community network, is something that is fundamental to this place. We are fortunate that it can be so enjoyable at the same time. Come on down and find out more about it.For more information go to www.secretcreekcafe.com For bookings phone 02 6352 1133

New menu for Secret Creek

Some new feature dishes include... Wellington Farm Salt Bush Lamb marinated in olive oil, finger lime and cardamom on roasted pumpkin and sweet potato, red onion and kipfler potatoes finished with port roasted garlic and rosemary gravySlow cooked Ormiston free-range pork on and off the bone with whole honey dutch carrots, broccolini and roast chat potatoes. Finished with local apple chutney and a Kakadu plum and shiraz reductionMacadamia crusted eggplant steak layered with grilled seasonal vegetables on baked aborio rice with a duet of sundried tomato and basil pesto And some of our old favourites have had a little make-over...Aged kangaroo tenderloin filled with macadamias and rosemary, wrapped in proscuitto on roast sweet potato mash with whole baby beetroots and a pickled pear salsaWhole baby barramundi baked in paperbark with bush herbs, topped with citrus honey butter, dukkah crusted potatoes and crisp greens There is also a new range of entrees and sides and we've had some additions to our coffee and tea menus as well. Hope to see you at Secret Creek to try it out soon!


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Route DescriptionThis discovery trail takes in part of the main

Greater Blue Mountains Drive (and the Botanists Way) along Bells Line of Road,

almost completing a full circuit. From Berambing go westward along Bells Line of Roadtothefirstoptionaldiversion–2km

down Valley Ridges Road on the left to WaratahPicnicArea.

Back on the Bells Line, the road climbs up onto the basalt top of Mount Tomah and

the entrance to Mount Tomah Botanic Garden on the left (entry fee). This is a ‘must-do’ stop to enjoy gardens of

mountain and cool climate plants from across the world, informative displays, great

views and perhaps a picnic or restaurant meal.

Further along Bells Line of Road glimpses of the stupendous Grose Valley begin to

appear on the left. This section of the trail presents you with three different places

to stop and take in this extraordinary view from varying perpsectives. Make sure to

takethemallin!

MountBanksisthefirst,9.5kmfromMountTomah. The unsealed road leads through

heathland1.3kmtothecarpark,picnicarea,viewpoint and walks.

Drive summary

• 48km(oneway)• 1hrtodrive(oneway)• Highway,narrowsealedroads,gravelroads,4WDtrail• Start:Berambing• Finish:BowensCreek• Alerts!:Narrow,windingroadsthroughMountWilsonandMountIrvine.

Enjoy a very spectacular and varied high mountain drive by following this Discovery

Trail. One of the best places to see mountain rainforests andabotanist’sdelight!The

excellent complete circuit across Bowens Creek can be completed by bicycle.

Highlights include the Mount Tomah Botanic Garden, Grose

Valley lookouts and walking tracks, Mount Wilson forests,

lookouts and gardens.

The Mounts DISCOVERY TRAIL

The turnoff to Walls Lookout and Pierces Pass is another 1.5km on along the main route. Pierces Pass picnic area and trackhead is 1km down the unsealed road, while the walk to Walls Lookout starts from the carpark just off the main road.

LeaveBellsLineofRoadabout2kmfurtherwest and follow the Mount Wilson Road to the rich basalt cap of Mount Wilson. Beautiful garden estates (sometimes open to the public), tree-lined avenues and lush temperate rainforest on the edge of the scratchy sandstone wilderness make for a novel experience – especially during spring and autumn when the gardens are at their most colourful.

Don’t miss the two expansive look-outs – WynnesRocks(offQueensAvenue)andDuFaurs Rocks (turn off at the bush fire shed). On the way towards the sister summit of Mount Irvine is the Cathedral of Ferns – a lovely picnic area with tall gums and rainforest walks.

The sealed, winding road to Mount Irvine passes through superb wet forests of various types. Just before Mount Irvine (a residential area with no public facilities). Anadditional4WDoptionistocontinuestraight ahead down the Bowens Creek Track, to the trail’s end at a small picnic site on the creek. The road across the creek and up the other side back to Berambing is closed to motor vehicles but lucky cyclists can continue on.


The Mounts DISCOVERY TRAIL: an account of things to see and do along the trail

One leg of the main Greater Blue Mountains Drive that’s packed with its own experiences is The Botanists Way, a themed route that follow the historic Bells Line of Road and Chifley Road between Windsor and Lithgow.

The Botanists Way celebrates the unique botanical heritage of the area and its human stories,fromthefirstAboriginalinhabitants,through the colonial scientist-explorers to today’s magnificent gardens of the basalt tops. It’s no fluke that The Botanists Way is one of only two roads across the Blue Mountains. Just like the Great Western Highway through Katoomba, it follows a natural pathway along a watershed that has beentroddenbyAboriginalpeoplefortraveland trade since time immemorial.

The Mounts Discovery Trail follows The Botanists Way westward from the rural village of Berambing and over Mount Tomah before turning north into the fabulous forests and gardensofMountWilson.Alongthewayittakes in many botanical treasures and any number of great picnic spots and short walks, adding up to a fascinating daytrip.

The first of many attractions you can choose from is Waratah Native Gardens just off Bells Line of Road in Blue Mountains National Park. The tall turpentines and stringybarks of the quiet forest glade reflect the richer shale soil that also supports the nearby ridge-top orchards.

The Gorge is a rewarding short walk that descends into the less fertile sandstone that makesupmostofthearea.Asmalltributaryof the Grose River has cut a sheltered chasm of lush temperate rainforest, with massive turpentines, coachwoods and lianas above a ferny understorey.

Continuing west, Bells Line of Road climbs onto the table-top summit of Mount Tomah. The basalt capping the mountain is just a surviving skerrick of huge lava flows that flooded over the area about 18 million years ago. The grow-anything volcanic soil of ‘the mounts’ (Tomah, Bell, Banks, Wilson and Irvine) attracted early settlers like bees to a honeypot, and today the larger summits are a mix of small farms and landscaped gardens, peppered with remnant stands of the exuberant wet forests that once covered the lot.

At1000mabovetheplains,themountainisthe perfect place to grow a showpiece garden of cool-climate plants. Mount Tomah Botanic Gardenwasopenedonanoldnurseryin1987as an annex of the famous Sydney Botanic Gardens. Now you can see something like 7,000 different species there, from the Blue Mountains,Australiaandallovertheworld.

Themed sections, informative signs and a self-guided audio tour help to tell the fascinating story of the evolution of Australia’suniqueplants.Ifyoujustwantto look, the garden walks and stunning views over the surrounding Greater Blue MountainsWorldHeritageAreawillleaveyou

exhilarated. For a complete experience just add lovely picnic sites, a restaurant and a gift shop!AmajorpermanentexhibitionabouttheWorldHeritageAreaistobeaddedsoon.

Westward from Mount Tomah the landscape changes character. The orchards and fruit stalls are gone, and unsullied wilderness hugs both sides of the road. The cliff-bound deeps of the Grose Wilderness flash past to the south, while to the north narrow hidden ravines run to the Colo River.

Alongherearemoreplacesforwalkersandview-seekers. The track to the summit of Mount Banks passes through beautiful open heathland – a response to thin soils, fire and wind exposure. The reward for climbers is one of the few basalt tops with its natural forest intact.

Pierces Pass is one of the best jumping-off points for some serious bushwalking – a descent of the Grose Valley to Blue Gum Forest. The legendary glade was rescued from the axe by a coalition of bushwalkers during the1930sdepression,tobecomeanucleusof not only Blue Mountains National Park but also the whole national park movement. The walk to Blue Gum Forest is best done as an overnight trip, camping beside the forest atAcaciaFlat.Forthelessambitious,shortwalks to Walls Lookout and Rigby Hill reveal breathtaking views from the brink into the great gulf of the Grose – but keep back from thoseunfencedcliffedges!

Turning off Bells Line of Road to Mount Wilson, the road winds through some of the finest scribbly gum woodland in the mountains.Afewspringsago,thescribblieswere flowering so well that the aroma of fermentingnectarfilledthecar.Astheroadmeets the slope of ‘the mount’, the bush abruptly changes to tall forest of eucalypts and rainforest species. On top, the forest shiftsintosomethingmuchmoregenteel:tree-lined avenues and superbly designed garden estates – many open for inspection in spring and autumn. Beyond the gardens there is a feast of fine natural things to see too.

The lookouts at Wynnes Rocks and Du Faurs Rocks are quite different in character but equally impressive. Wynnes Rocks looks over the head of Bowens Creek to the edge of the Grose, while the bizarre rock formations of Du Faurs Rocks stand above the Wollangambe River with the tangled ridges of Wollemi National Park fading into the north. It’s a wilderness out there – recognised as the biggest in New South Wales. In spring, new growth on the gumtrees adds splashes of red to a colourful foreground.

But if you really want colour, nothing can beat cruising around the gardens in springtime. The richness of the ornamental plantings, sprinkled with the waratahs, wattles and other native wildflowers, can be overwhelming. Then in autumn, the reds and yellows look like someone’s gone berserk with the spray-paint. When your eyes need a cool break from all this, the Cathedral of Ferns offers restful strolls through shadowy rainforest. It’s also a good place to picnic or to camp the night.

Walkers are spoilt for choice at Mount Wilson. The village stroll between Silva Plana reserve and the Cathedral of Ferns sneaks along public byways between the gardens, while a bunch of other tracks explore the bush, the creeks and surviving rainforest. One of my favourites is the Waterfall Walk, featuring perhaps the only basalt waterfall in the mountains!Anddon’tbeputoffby‘bad’weather – Mount Wilson in the fog can be pure magic.

The sealed road to Mount Irvine winds through an amazing diversity of wet and dry forests, with quite a few spots where you can stop for a closer look. In spring the flowering shrubs - some of them found only in the Blue Mountains - can be spectacular.

The garden and rural settlement of Mount Irvine has no public facilities but sticky-beaks will want to drive in for a look, while the more adventurous will make the spectacular descent into the gorge of Bowens Creek. This bit is for four-wheel-drives only, or keen mountain-bikers. The bumpy dirt trail – an historic coach road – takes big sweeps across the valley-side as it passes from ridge-top scribbly gums into tall eucalypts and rainforest.

Apartfromabasicpicnicspot,thebeautifulclear-water creek is the main attraction, flowing away deep into the wilderness and eventually, the Colo River. The bridge is a good place to gaze around and contemplate how early European explorers and settlers might have felt, fresh from the green fields of England, wrestling through this strange and unknown land of rock and scrub.

It must have been very lonely, but at least in the case of explorer/botanist George Caley, his 1804 Blue Mountains journey impressed himdeeply.AfterleavingAustraliaforeverCaleywrotefromafarawayland:“It’sthosedamned mountains after all my suffering that Iamenrapturedwith….Oh!BotanyBay!IwishIcouldforgetyou!Butthiswillneverhappenas long as your mountains haunt me.”

The Greater Blue Mountains Drive has been established by the regions which share the mountains as their own backyard working together to develop the drive in collaboration with the NSW Dept of Environment andClimateChange,TourismNSWandTourismAustralia.Furtherdevelopmentofthedriveproducthasbeen enhanced by the ongoing involvement of Transurban. The establishment of the drive was proudly supportedbytheAustralianGovernmentanditsbusinessprogramdeliverydivision,AusIndustryinaprogramproposedanddevelopedbyBlueMountainsTourismLimited.©2007


The Old Wallerawang Railway Station is open 7days a week, with coffees from 9am -5pm. The Station is wheelchair friendly and has full toilet facilities. Phone 6355 1836 for bookings & information.

Wallerawang/Portland www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Portland Real EstateThe Local Agents With Local Knowledge

Offering many years experience in local real estate and extensive knowledge of

this beautiful village not far from the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains.

Ph: 02 6355 5125 Email: [email protected]

www.portlandre.com.au

Portland is only 2 1/2 hours from Sydney. It is an easy 40 minutes to Bathurst and 30 minutes from Lithgow. The town is of interest as an historic mining town and as the place of the first cement works in Australia, which was opened in 1902. Cement produced at the Portland cement works helped build the city of Sydney and the cement was shipped around Australia until the works closed in 1991. Portland is part of the gateway to the Central West and is ideally located between Oberon, Mudgee, Bathurst and Lithgow and the Blue Mountains. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside and has many areas for bushwalking. It is close to the Wollemi and Gardens of Stone National Parks. Portland is a mecca for people wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy the surrounding Lake Wallace is fine for sailing and dragon boat racing. It has recently had a boat shed built on its shores. It also supports many species of water fowl and other birds along the shores and in the park, making it a favourite for bird watchers and twitchers.Discover Wallerawang and enjoy old fashioned hospitality and service, at the Old Wallerawang Railway Station. Built in 1870, is an excellent example of the late 19th Century railway stations. The Station building and it’s precinct are listed on the State Heritage Register and actually

represent the final stage of the famous Zig Zag construction. Once a major junction on the Main Western Line, and employing over 120 people, the railway station ceased operating in 1978 and fell into disrepair.Now beautifully restored the Old Station celebrates both Wallerawang's rich history and the incredible talents of its local Arts Community. It is also an accredited Visitor Information Centre, able to offer information on local attractions, happenings and events, maps, and a great selection of material for the traveller. Even locals may discover something new!The Station also houses a Florist, Old Fashioned Lolly Shop and Coffee Shop.Serving fantastic coffees, exclusive cakes and light lunches, luscious old fashioned milkshakes and traditional Aussie Spiders, “Coffee @ the Station is fast becoming the place to meet. You can dine in the Galleries, on the Platform or on the restored verandah.Bouquets By Design, is your local Interflora florist, and can offer you great floral suggestions for any occasion. Robin has a huge range of Settler Bears, hand crafted jewellery, and unique gift ideas along with a treasure trove of local & regionally produced arts and crafts.Lollipop Junction has yummy gift packs, huge lollipops Rocks and Jellies and of course their famous fine Australian Chocolates and Traditional English sweets.

Great Family Home $380,000This four bedroom brick veneer home,

set on a 1,012 sqm block has something for all the family. Main bedroom has

ensuite and built-in robes, other three have built-ins. Tiled, three way bathroom with bath, separate shower, large vanity; plus great size laundry which is heated.

Open plan kitchen has lots of cupboards, breakfast bar and dishwasher. Two large, separate living areas including bar. The home has ducted r/c air conditioning, plus ducted wood heating and is well insulated. Outdoor entertaining area with neat gardens. There is a double

garage attached to the home, and a four bay shed and workshop with

sealed rear lane entry.Well presented and ready for inspection.


WITH a Calare electoral boundary of 30,528 square kilometres and over 50 small towns and villages it came as a wonderful surprise to the Palettes of Portland committee when they found out they were the recipients of a Na-tional Volunteer Award.With more than 60 nominations in eight categories the Palettes of Port-land committee came away with theInnovation in Volunteering award after committee chair Maree Statham nomi-nated them.“It was humbling to see 23 Portland community groups along with indi-viduals come ogether and put on such a great day,” Maree said.“It was a huge effort put in by the town and it paid off as people are still talking about what a great time they had.“We raised over $14,000 and all the proceeds went to Beyond Blue.”Member for Calare John Cobb opened the Palettes of Portland weekend and was so impressed he will be back to officially open this year’s Portland Art Show.“It will be fantastic to see people who were there last year working together at the opening night on Friday, March 2,” Maree said.“Come along and join us for a glass of wine and supper.”This year there will be three grand events: The Roaring 20s All That Jazz gala ball, the twilight dinner amidthe art and the 36th Portland Art So-ciety’s art exhibition with feature artist Gary Pettitt. “Everyone who was involved in last year’s Palettes of Portland needs to give themselves a pat on the back,” Maree said.“A huge thank you to all the sponsors who made the event possible. “These include Portland Red Cross, the CWA ladies, Portland Combined Pensioners, Tidy Towns, Colts Football Club, Port-land RFS and Portland Fire Brigade, the SES, stallholders, the young volunteers of Portland, Portland RSL, St Vincent dePaul, all the church groups in Portland, GoodEarth, the pool committee, the Development Association, Central

West Motorcycle Club and many more. Thankyou.”It is hoped a tablet will be purchased for the future display of the award

National award for Palettes at Portlandin the Crystal Theatre so the whole community can admire and recall the fantastic effort they all put in.Story and photo: CAROLYN PIGGOTT

WINNERS: On behalf of everyone involved in the Palettes of Portland Art Society committee member Sue Banning and committee chair Maree Statham with the

award for innovation in volunteering.


What to See & Do Be sure to call into the visitor centre

for information on all the wonderful things to do It's an excellent fishing season

and the streams and countryside are spectacular after great rains Try your luck sapphire fossicking Go horse riding through the

magically beautiful landscape Explore the wild places four wheel

driving Evans Crown Nature Reserve and

Kanangra Walls offer both relaxing and challenging walks Be sure to inspect the fabulous

gardens in this area so renowned for them You MUST make time for Jenolan

Caves, the most spectacular limestone caves in Australia. Just breathe in that wonderful fresh

mountain air in the pine forests!

Oberon www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

© Tourism NSW

At 1,113m, Oberon is the highest town in the Blue Mountains region. It is the perfect hub from which to explore a multitude of unique attractions, towns & villages, including Jenolan Caves and Kanangra Boyd National Park. With four distinct, idyllic seasons and the most beautiful scenery in rural NSW, a visit to the region will reward & delight.Oberon is surrounded by interesting villages and National Parks. Jenolan Caves, Kanangra Boyd National Park, Blue Mountains National Park and Abercrombie River National Park are

in the shire and contain spectacular scenery. Oberon can be used as a base from which to undertake day trips to the various villages and attractions within the region.Oberon, King of Shadows and Fairies is best known as a character in William Shakespeare’s play, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and you’d be forgiven for thinking, as you drive into the Central Talblelands town of Oberon at the moment, that you were entering that play.

Kim Bell and her family have brought about amazing changes at the Tour-ist Hotel Oberon turning it into a warm family venue with great pub food sourced from fresh local pro-duce and a lively safe traditional pub scene as well.

Tourist Hotel O B E R O N

Ph: 02 6336 1378 Fax: 02 6336 [email protected]

42 Edith Rd, Jenolan CavesPh: 02 6335 6239 M: 0418 619 709

E: [email protected]

JenolanCabins

porcupine hill

The Green Foxcamping

fishing

antiques

firearms

hunting

vintage jewellery

furniture

clothing

toys

more...

come and browse

open7

days(02) 6336 0202

ObEROn, Cnr Ross & Oberon Sts.


Oberon Visitor Information CentreCnr Ross Street and Edith Road Oberon NSW 2787

02 63298210oberonaustralia.com

OBERONsimple pleasures

Showcasing the majestic Jenolan Caves and

world heritage National Parks, enchanting forest and farming country and

village life

The much anticipated, new Oberon website - www.oberonaustralia.com - was launched this week at the joint 2011 Christmas function of the Oberon Plateau Tourism Association (OPTA) and the Oberon Business Association (OBA) held at Caves House, Jenolan Caves.Ben Curran from Stralia Web, the designer, unveiled the new interactive site and gave the 50 plus group a tour of the site and its new features.Mr Curran advised the previous Oberon website attracted some 52,000 plus visits over the past twelve months and forecast that the new website, with its user friendly features, evocative photography and locally written content, should grow visitor numbers to the site. Mr Curran said another exciting part of the website is the fact that when ‘Oberon’ is entered into the search engine Google, the new website is the first link to appear on the list.The new website, is a joint venture between Stralia Web and OPTA, with valuable contributions from OPTA , OBA, local businesses, Oberon Council and the Oberon Visitor Information Centre, Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust and the Kanangra office of National Parks and Wildlife, in particular Ranger Jules Bros. The website includes magnificent photographs from local photographers, including Lynne Causer; and a majority of the content was written by another local, Julia Wythes.www.oberonaustralia.com showcases the natural beauty, unique country living and opportunities within the region and has many user friendly features including upcoming business and community events and even a display of current weather conditions and a 7 day forecast. Other smart features built into the website include an automated language translation facility, integrated Google maps, accommodation availability, photo galleries, videos, social networking and a free media release service. Easy to use navigation, aided by a powerful search feature quickly locates required information.

The New www.oberonaustralia.com is Live.

The site is fully content management driven with comprehensive statistics and reporting facilities and all features are accessible via current mobile devices with mobile specific websites coming in 2012.Participation on the websites is open to everyone, businesses, tourism operators, schools, churches and

community groups. Businesses wishing to be part of the new website can benefit from the various advertising services that offer a cost effective marketing opportunity to reach the local community and visitors to the region. Contact Stralia Web on 1300 550 212 for further information.

• Hot Meals • Open Grills • Gourmet Sandwiches • Tossed Salads • All Day

Breakfasts • Morning & Afternoon Tea • Snacks & Children Meals

• Homemade Desserts • Healthy Eating • Hot & Cold Drinks • Outdoor

Smokers Area

196 Oberon Street, OberonPh: 6336 1528

EAT in or TAKEAWAY


© Margaret Edwards

Bathurst to Mudgee www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th APRIL 2012 at Bathurst Show GroundA small oil painting by Adolph Hitler together with a page from an old history book he has tinted with art paint as a child. These two items have never before been on public display as they are privately owned and were purchased directly from Hitler’s half sister Freda.A genuine Australian Cobb & Co coach together with related items.

Rare & unexpected things to see at the 5th Annual Central Western NSW Bathurst Arms & Militaria Fair

A very interesting display of real 1860’s American Civil War collectables:A Colt Revolver reputed to have been owned by William Bonney, better known as Billy the Kidd.An interesting display of estate jewellery, some of which is for sale.Many other items of heritage, history & interest to all. There will also be numerous antique & modern sporting firearms on sale to licensed buyers as well as associated

equipment and accessories.Come along and see for yourself.

Robert Whalan presentsCentral Western NSW

Antique & Modern Arms Fair 2012& Militaria Collectables fair

Saturday 14th 9am to 4:30pm & Sunday 15th 9am to 3:00pm, April 2012Bathurst Show Ground, Kendall Ave (Gt Western Hwy), Bathurst NSW 2795

FeaturingAntique & Modern firearms for collectors, target and sporting shooting

enthusiasts as well as associated equipment and supplies.Quality militaria including medals, badges, bayonets, swords,

uniforms and genuine memorabilia.BUYING & SELLING

Licensed dealers in attendance

Admission: Adults $9, Seniors $8 - Family 2a+2c (under 16) $18 Children $2 up to 16 years (must be under adult supervision)

Enquiries: Sam at the Green Fox 02 6336 0202 b.h. Prue or Robert Whalan 02 6335 8430 a.h.

for more information go to:www.bathurstarmsfair.com Copyright: M Wedd


C

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CM

MY

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winburndale_advert_78x175_11-11.ai 1 3/11/2011 9:52:48 AM

Mudgee Visitor Information Centre

84 Market Street MUDGEE

NSW 2850 • 02 6372 1020

Gulgong Visitor Information Centre66 Herbert Street GULGONG

NSW 2852 • 02 6374 2691

Rylstone Visitor Information CentreLouee Street RYLSTONE

NSW 2849 • 02 6379 0790

[email protected] www.visitmudgeeregion.com.au

Mudgee Region Tourism - Visitor

Information

Kandos Visitor Information Centre28 Angus Avenue KANDOS

NSW 2848 • 02 6379 4663

All the best people go to Winburndale! Layne Beachley (seven times world surfing champion) and Kirk Pengilly (fron INXS) dropped by to taste some of our wines. They were doing a short tour of the Central Ranges, sampling the best on offer. They came for an hour and stayed for two, and were really delightful company. They told us the very amusing story of how they met and gave us permission to tell other visitors to the tasting room. For the record, Layne loved the reds, especially the 2008 Fontana and

Star couple meet star wines at multi award winning Bathurst winery

Solitary, and Kirk really enjoyed the Risque Rose.A visit to Winburndale gives you the opportunity to meet the winemaker, do some barrel tasting and blend some wines, have a walk through the

Ask your Visitor Information Centres for directions for travelling through Hill End, and Sofala to Mudgee

vineyard and taste award winning wines.For more details: Mike Burleigh, M 0438 698868


Orange www.bluemountainsimag.com.au

Orange, known as Australia’s Colour City with its four distinct seasons is located in Central NSW, 3 ½ hours from Sydney and within easy reach of the Blue Mountains. You will discover a welcoming city full of life, fruitful landscapes, historical buildings, diverse shopping, art and culture to surprise you and some of the best food and wine in Australia.Continuing to build its reputation for cool climate wines renowned for the regions flavour and quality and now

supports more than 30 cellar doors. It is Australia’s cool climate wine region where the topography ranges from Mt Canobolas at 1,395 metres down to around 600 metres. The combination of distinct seasons, rich soils, climate, sloping ground and glorious sunlight cause a slow maturation and ripening allowing a great intensity of fruit.Begin your journey into another country: Orange, the highest altitude wine region in Australia.

What to See & Do Take a vignerons tour around the

30+ cellar doors.

Ascend majestic Mt. Canobolas, walk to the spectacular Federal Falls then try out your canoe at Lake Canobolas below.

Pleasure your palate with the wonderful fresh food and produce that abounds in Orange and its districts.

Take a trip into the eerie limestone world of Tunnel Cave at Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve – take a torch.

Visit the Orange Regional Gallery for an collection of unique art, photography and culture.

Shopping choices abound in the City and surrounding shires to suit all tastes and budgets in fashion, antiques, homewares, arts, tools, jewellery, books, gardening and agriculture… the list is endless…

Lucknow 8 klm east of Orange is a 50 klm speed zone and a great place to stop and explore off the beaten track. It is full of history and you never know what treasure you may find at 2 Fat Ladies, especially now they are so much larger!Local art is on display and for sale in the café and coffee shop area.

Massed Bands © City of Orange Brass Band

Enjoy the café and lolly shop Beading workshops regularly

Fab new Clothes for real women! exciting new stock arriving daily!

Great new handbags! Fab new summer & evening wear

www.2fatladies.com.au Mitchell Highway, lucknow 2800 Ph: 6365 5437

More to meet the eye at Lucknow

NOW EVEN LARGER!


Sunday 16th October saw the City of Orange Brass Band’s first Cook Park recital for the new season.Over recent years the band has contin-ued to grow in numbers, public sup-port and performance standard under the baton of Bandmaster Bob Petrie. The Band has been regularly practic-ing. The hard work has paid dividends with the recent 1st place award at the Orange Eisteddfod against formidable opposition in the open instrumental ensemble for 14 or more musicians.The band will perform a varied and exciting repertoire of music this sum-mer – with old favorites and new arrangements of film scores and a wide selection of popular music.Cook Park recitals will be held every month until May 2012. Performance dates are available on the band website www.cityoforangebrassband.com or on printed information fliers at Leading Edge Computers, Cook Park information box, the Library and the Visitor Information Centre.Bob Petrie continues to be busy providing learners classes with new ‘graduates’ Hannah McKay and Jacob McMullen joining the senior band dur-ing the winter. Lessons are free for new members and people young or old interested in learning to play a brass instrument are invited to contact Bob (Ph; 63627516)

Recitals 2012 Brass Celebration Perfor-mances and times:- SATURDAY 12.30 pm – Street march from Robert-son Park to Cook Park 12.55 pm – All four bands perform on arrival at Cook Park 1.00 pm to 4.30 pm – performances by individual bands in Cook Park 7.30 pm – Concert at Orange Civic TheatreSUNDAY 9.00 am to 3.00 pm – performances in Cook Park. Including hymns in Cook Park at 10amThe City of Orange Brass Band and visit-ing bandsAre delighted to present this weekend of brass music.We hope you enjoy the street march, the music programs in the Cook Park rotunda and the evening concert in the Orange Civic Theatre.About Us• City of Orange Brass Band Bob PetrieThe emphases of the City of Orange Brass Band’s activities are enjoyment and performing to the highest stan-dard achievable. A key objective is to foster the love of music and so begin-ner players of all ages are encouraged. Performances are held in and around Orange at civic and community events, including monthly recitals in Cook Park in the warmer months.The City of Orange Brass Band warmly welcomes:• Willoughby Band Warwick Tyrell The exceptional skills of this Sydney-based Australian National and NSW State championship band are widely recognised. The band has performed on radio and television and recorded music for the opening ceremony of the Asian Games held in Qatar in 2008. 2009 marked the 50th Anniversary of the band. Under the leadership of their new bandmaster, Warwick Tyrell they won the NSW ‘A’ Grade NSW Band Championships in September 2011.• Parramatta Salvation Army Band Graham AinsworthThe Parramatta Corps of The Salvation Army, located in the centre of the ever expanding Parramatta CBD, strives

City of Orange Brass Band

• Willoughby Band• Parramatta Salvation Army Band• Cardiff North Lakes Brass• City of Orange Brass Band

Tickets $20.00 and $15.00 from Orange Civic Theatre or www.ticketek.com

to communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a vibrant and passionate way.The Citadel Band, established in the early days of the Salvation Army in Parramatta (circa 1892), continues to promote through music, the love that God has for his world. Parramatta Citadel Band thanks the City of Orange Brass Band for inviting them to return for Brass Celebration and sup-porting the Salvation Army.• Cardiff North Lakes Brass Ron BoadenCardiff North Lakes Brass (CNL Brass) is a community band, formed in 1973. The band’s home base is in Cardiff near Lake Macquarie.Members range in age from 15 to 80 years. The band supports community events, festivals and concert perfor-mances.The band has competed in the NSW State Championships on three occa-sions in the past four years. In all three of their appearances they have won the ‘C’ Grade competition.

ORangE REgiOnal gallERy

open Tues - Sat from 10 - 5 Suns & Public Holidays from 12 - 4

Visits outside of these hours can be made by ringing

(02) 63938136

24 Feb to 1 april 2012THe MaRY TURneR ColleCTion

australian Modern masters gifted to Orange Regional gallery by Mary Turner OaM. Most of the 34 works in the collection were acquired when the donor was a principal of Macquarie

galleries during the 1960s and 70s.Woman at a Window by ian Fairweather


range


What's On MarchParramatta & District Historical Society3 March Take a guided tour through Early Magistrates Court indexes.21 March An illustrated tour of Rookwood Cemetery focusing on the fascinating history of ships and shipwrecks. 25 March Coach tour to historical sites in Penrith and Castlereagh. Exhibition Lucas Gallery in Hambledon Cottage is open Thurs to Sun 11am - 4pm where histories of HMAS Parramatta I to IV are on display. Ph 9635 6924 Hambledon Coach House, Gregory Place, Harris ParkMamre Homestead From 11 March Wildlife Show every Sunday 11am-1.30pm. See, touch and interact with Australia's wildlife. No bookings required. Adults $12, children (4-12) $8. Ph 9826 1864 www.featheredfriends.com.au 17 March Fine Dining at the Homestead - a delectable array of courses showcasing fresh local produce and delicacies, featuring modern Australian and International cuisines. Limited numbers ñ bookings essential. Private Function and Conference rooms also available. Ph 9670 6178 181 Mamre Rd, Orchard HillsLuddenham Show 3-4 March Lots of entertainment for the whole family, including live performances from musical to magical, sideshows and rides for the kids and crazy at heart, and stalls with quality food, produce, arts and crafts.Luddenham Showground Fantasyfest 10-11 March 10am-4.30pm Come and meet Pirates, Fairies, Vikings, Elves, Witches, Ninjas, Warrior Knights, R2D2 and Barbarians, just to name a few of the colourful characters attending Fantasyfest. A fun fantasy filled weekend for the whole family. There is something here for everyone. Come dressed to kill to win fantastic prices each day. www.fantasyfest.com.au Museum of Fire, 1 Museum Drive, PenrithThe Blue Mountains Concert Society 17 March 8pm The Australian String Quartet, together with pianist Daniel de Borah, will be performing music by Sculthorpe, Dvorak and Shostakovich. 31 March 8pm The Streeton Trio, three of Australia's leading young performers will be performing music by Hayden, Beethoven and Ravel. Ph 1800 984 460 www.bmconcerts.com Springwood Civic CentreSelby & Friends Concert Series 1 16 March 7.30pm 'A Ghost at the Cafe.' Sophie Rowell (violin), Clancy Newman (cello), Kathryn Selby (piano). Music by Frank Bridge, Beethoven, Schoenfield and Shostakovich. Ph 9969 7039 Springwood Civic Centre, 106-108 Macquarie Road

Everglades Gardens 17 March 12.30pm - St. Patrick's Day Ukuleles - Sing Along Luncheon - Wearing of the Green. Come and enjoy a delicious home cooked meal with a distinctly Irish flavour and a fabulous Irish sing along with the Fleas, a Blue Mountains Ukulele Group. $45 p.p. includes a 3 course lunch BYO. Bookings essential ph 4784 1938 or email [email protected] 37 Everglades Ave, LeuraSix Foot Track Marathon 10 March Started in 1984 and following the entire length of the 45 kilometre footpath from Katoomba to Jenolan Caves, it is Australia's fifth largest marathon and by far the largest off-road running event. The race is a fundraiser for the Rural Fire Service and Six Foot Track Heritage Trust. www.sixfoot.comSculpture at Scenic World To 11 March The Blue Mountains World Heritage Area will be transformed into one of the world's most spectacular art galleries for the inaugural Sculpture at Scenic World cultural event. Australia's only ancient rainforest sculpture exhibition will feature 26 unique artworks in a pristine Jurassic valley. Ph 4780 0200 www.scenicworld.com.au Corner of Violet and Cliff Drive, KatoombaBlue Mountains Music Festival 16-18 March A three day festival of folk, roots and blues music, featuring selected artists from around the world and across Australia. In a variety of venues in Katoomba see and hear world class musicians in an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Just a short stroll from Katoomba railway station. www.bmff.org.au Festival Precinct, KatoombaJemby Rinjah Eco Lodge Fab Friday Night Specials from 6pm on alternate nights for $16. 2,16 & 30 March - Lobster Mornay & Steak Night. 1/2 a Lobster in a creamy Mornay sauce with a sirloin steak served with chips & salad. 9 & 23 March - Sirloin Steak & Garlic Prawns Night. Garlic prawns served on top of a juicy sirloin steak served with hollandaise sauce, chips & salad. Catering for vegans/vegetarians too, just let them know! Bookings essential. Ph 4787 7622 www.jemby.com.au 336 Evans Lookout Road, BlackheathExhibition by the Nepean Art Group. 10 March - 26 April An Exhibition not to miss. This is a group of individuals connected by their love for their art. The group gets together sometimes on collective exhibitions, visit each other's studios or teachingplaces, and in general try to support each member in any way they can. They comprise students, ex students, teachers and professional artists, working in various mediums, styles and disciplines. Ph 6352 3541 www.lithgow2790.com Lithgow Craft Co-op, 990 Gt Wstn Hwy, Lithgow

Six Foot Track Marathon

Mamre Homestead

Lucas Gallery - Hambledon Cottage

Blue Mountains Ukulele Festival

Jemby Rinjah Eco Lodge


Lithgow Agricultural Show 16-17 March Celebrating over 125 yrs of family entertainment. This year, we are planning to have the biggest and best show to date, with everything from the popular pavilion exhibits and animal nursery to our major entertainment which is yet to be confirmed. Ph 6353 1775 www.lithgowshow.org.au Tony Luchetti Showground, LithgowJenolan Caves Concerts 3 March 4pm Larissa Burak's exceptional soprano voice, combined with the gentle sounds of the bandura, can be heard underground in the Cathedral Chamber of the Lucas Cave. 17 March 4pm Cello Concert. Relax to the sound of the cello drifting through the ancient Cathedral Chamber with cellist Georg Mertens playing Romantic cello music. 24 March 4pm Gypsy Music. Be enchanted by fiery and dreamy music performed by the Paganini Duo underground in the Cathedral Cave. Ph 1300 763 311 www.jenolancaves.org.au36th annual Art Exhibition in Portland. Portland Art Society Festival of Events: 1 March Exclusive preview, Twilight Dinner Amid the Art, 6:30pm Crystal Theatre $50pp 2 March Art Exhibition Opening. Garry Petitt will be feature painter at the Exhibition. Bookings essential Ph 0428 280 354Cullen Bullen Race Meeting 31 March Watch the speedway action at the Cullen Bullen Raceway ñ ìThe Action Attraction of the Central Westî. Divisions include Racing Super Production, Series, Production, Juniors, Street Stockers, Compact Speedcars, Microsprints, Dwarf Cars, Quarter Midgets & Vintage Speedcars. Racing from 4-10pm. Adults $12, Pensioners & Children $2 Ph 6359 0582 Bathurst Autumn Colours Program 1 March - 31 May What a great time to visit the Bathurst Region! The months of autumn bring a change in the colours, a change in the temperature and a change in the locals who have managed to create an assortment of events to entice you to visit. The autumn months are among the most beautiful of the year. There is no better time to enjoy all the Region has to offer. Bathurst Visitor Information Centre Ph 6332 144421st Flickerfest International Short Film Festival 3 March A record 2200 entries were received for Flickerfest 2012, and a selection of the top 100 shorts were selected in official competition, all handpicked to represent the most innovative, creative and cutting edge short films being produced in the world today. This impressive and unprecedented number of contenders from all round the world confirms Flickerfest's reputation as Australiaís largest and most respected short film competition. Ph 6333 6161 www.flickerfest.com.au Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre

Bathurst Computer Fair 3 March 10am-3pm Bathurst's Computer Fair is a popular event for families and computer enthusiasts. Ph 4365 6876 Bathurst ShowgroundBathurst Autofest 17-18 March 8.30am-5.30pm A performance motoring festival open to all types of vehicles held over 2 days at the iconic Mount Panorama circuit. Planned events will include Go to Whoa, Showcar Masters display, Show 'n Shine, Corkscrew and everyone's favourite, the Burnout competition. Ph 0417 511 557 www.autofest.com.au Mount PanoramaAlabar Gold Crown Carnival 21-31 March A major annual event on the harness racing calendar, attracting owners, trainers, horses and drivers from Australia and New Zealand. This yearís carnival covers 10 days of racing and social events with trackside entertainment, a welcome function, trackside marquee, Gold Crown Golf Day at Bathurst Golf Club, Mayorís Honouree Dinner at the RSL Club, Gold Crown Ball at Bathurst Panthers and 6 race meetings. Ph 6333 5000 Bathurst Showground, Kendall AveBunnamagoo Mudfest ñ Mudgee International Short Film Festival 19 March Showcasing the best of international short films from around the globe, Mudfest will be screening its 8th edition in 2012. Enjoy an evening under the stars with your friends on the lawns of the Bunnamagoo Estate Cellar Door.For more information, go to www.mudfest.com.auMudgee Show 2-3 March Entertainment includes fireworks, free kids activities, competitions, rodeo, showgirls - just to name a few - and the old favourites of wood chopping, cooking, showjumping, dressage. Adults $15, children (5-18) $5 and concession $5. Ph 6372 4088 www.mudgeeshow.org.au Showground, Douro St, MudgeeRegion on the River 2012 24 March 11am-4pm Join in this great day with wines from 15 local and regional wineries, food from 10 specialised regional food producers. Watch and listen to the great entertainment. Check out the antics of the Ten Dollar Circus as they roam amongst the crowd, listen to great local bands and see blade shearing of sheep. This is a great family day out. Ph 6373 3716. Lawson Park, Short Street, MudgeePlants With Bite! – Carnivorous Plant Fair, Saturday 3 March - Sunday 11 March Documentary Screening and Book Launch Learn how these intriguing plants have adapted to nutrient deficient environments by feeding on meat. The Visitor Centre will house a spectacular carnivorous plant display with information and documentary film sessions and plants available for purchase. Information sessions will be at 11am each Saturday and Sunday during the fair. *9am – 5pm (*9.30am on weekends) Free entry.

Jenolan Caves Concert

Lithgow Agricultural Show

21st Flickerfest Short Film Festival

Plants with Bite - Mt Tomah


Monthly Markets GuideHAWKESBURY Bilpin Markets District Hall, Bells Line of Road. Every Saturday 10am-12am Windsor Mall Craft Markets Between Baker and Fitzgerald Sts. Every Sunday 9am - 3.30pmPENRITH Showground Markets 250-300 stalls selling produce, clothing, food, plants, crafts, etc. Cnr Ransley and Station Sts. Every Wed 8am-1.30pmHawkesbury Harvest Farmers and Fine Food Penrith - adj to Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, High St. 1st Saturday 8am-1pmPenrith Rotary Car Boot Sale Peachtree Hotel, Peachtree Road 1st SundayPenrith High Street MarketsHigh Street. 2nd and 4th SundaysEden’s Arts and Craft MarketEden’s Cafe, 64-68 Derby Street, Kingswood. 3rd Saturday 10am-3pmLuddenham Country Fair MarketsHubertus Country Club, 205 Adams Rd. Last Sunday 8.30am-2pmVicary’s Winery Vineyard Fair Northern Road, Luddenham. 2nd Sunday 9.30am-4pmWestern Sydney Community Indoor Market Cnr Gt W Hwy and Mamre Road, St Marys.20 November 12-4pm BLUE MOUNTAINSGlenbrook Rotary MarketsGlenbrook Infants School, Ross St. 3rd Saturday 9am-2pm

Springwood Community Ivy MarketsCivic Centre, Macquarie Road. 2nd Saturday 9am-1pmFaulconbridge Blue Gum Rotary MarketsPublic School, Great Western Hwy. 4th Saturday 9am-2pmLawson Magpie MarketsLawson Public School, Great Western Hwy. 3rd Sunday 9am-2pmBullaburra Craft MarketsProgress Hall, Noble St and Great Western Hwy. 1st Saturday 9am-3pmLeura MarketsLeura Public School, Great Western Hwy. 1st Sunday 9am-2pmLeura Blue Mountains MarketCWA Hall, Megalong Street. 1st and 3rd Saturday 9am-3pmLeura Every Friday Market CWA Hall, Megalong Street. 8am-6pmBluebird MarketAlexandra Hotel, Leura. 1st SaturdayKatoomba Craft MarketSt Canice's Hall, 158 Katoomba Street.2nd Sunday 9am-2pmBlackheath Craft MarketsCommunity Hall, Great Western Hwy. 3rd Sunday 9am-2pmBlackheath Community MarketBlackheath Public School Hall. 1st Sunday 9am-1pmBlackheath Growers MarketsCommunity Centre, Great Western Hwy. 2nd Sunday 8am-12amLITHGOWBowenfels Station Markets1st & 3rd Saturday 8am - lateCapertee MarketsCastlereagh Hwy. 3rd Sunday

Portland Community MarketsPortland Golf Club. 3rd Saturday 9am-2pmPortland Tidy Town MarketsWilliewa St. 1st Sunday 9am-2pmOBERONTablelands Way Farmers MarketsBarnabas Park, Oberon Street. 1st Saturday 8am-1pmBATHURSTFarmers Markets Showground. 4th Saturday 8am-12am Family Markets Showground. 2nd Sunday 8am-4pm Macquarie Lions Flea Markets Kings Parade. 1st Saturday 8.30am-1.30pmORANGEMilthorpe MarketsRedmond Oval, Park St 1st Sunday 8.30am-4pm Orange Region Farmers Market North Court, Peisley St 2nd Saturday 8.30am-12am Rotary Sunday Markets Orange Central, Byng Street Sundays 8am-12amMUDGEEChurch MarketsSt Johns Anglican Church, Church and Market Streets. 1st Saturday 9am-1pm Community MarketsLawson Park, cnr Church & Short Sts 2nd Saturday Farmers Markets St Marys Catholic Church, Market and Church Streets. 3rd Saturday 8.30am-12.30pm Artisan & Produce Markets Memorial Hall, Louee St Rylstone 2nd Saturday 9am -1.30 pm

FourPlay - Mt Tomah

Markets

Carnivorous Creations - Botanical illustration workshopSunday 4 March Part of the Plants with Bite Festival - respected illustrator Barbara Duckworth gives you the opportunity to discover and develop your illustrative skills during this workshop with a focus on carnivorous plants. 10am – 4pm Waratah Education Centre $85ppCarnivorous Plants for Kids - Children’s activity Saturday 10 March Part of the Plants with Bite Festival - a chance to visit the swampy Bog Garden and see first hand the glistening Sun Jewels, Venus Fly Traps and Pitcher Plants waiting to trap their prey! Meet the Carnivorous Plant growers, discover how they grow, then pot your own to take home. Venture into the mysterious world of plants that eat meat! A hands on workshop for the young and brave!10.30 – 12.30am Waratah Education Centre $15pp Garden Grooves presents FourPlay Saturday 24 March Acclaimed Aussie electric string quartet FourPlay write their own original compositions inspired by

rock, pop, jazz, swing, folk and hip hop! They also perform covers by a diverse array of bands from The Strokes and Radiohead to Charles Mingus and many more… no musical stone is left unturned. FourPlay have toured internationally and released three studio albums, a remix album and a trilogy of mini CDs.

This is a not to be missed opportunity to hear some amazing music in the stunning autumnal surrounds of the garden.1pm-5pm The Formal Lawn Tickets $25.Bookings essential on 02 4567 3019 or [email protected]‘Metamorphoo’ – Sculptures by Tony Lennon – Sculpture exhibition Sat 31 Mar – Sun 13 May Tony will be creating marble sculptures for the garden and Visitor Centre based on the concept of ‘metamorphosis’ or change. The exhibition is inspired by his observations of the dramatic seasonal changes in the garden over many years of working with the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah.*9am – 5pm daily (*9.30am weekends and public holidays) Residence Lawns Free entry


Wiradjuri Country

Capertee Valley

where to eat

real cooks, real foodMudgee Rd, Running Stream

Ph: 02 6358 8251www.foxwoodfarm.com.au

Foxwood Farm Café

Wheely Good 4W DrivesGuided day trips in A/C vehicleNullo Mountain, Dunns Swamp,

Hill End, Capertee Valley, Newnes“Access to Private Trails”

Ph 6379 1709Mobile: 0427 791 707 AH: 6379 7718

[email protected] - www.wheelygood.com.au

THE CUBBY HOUSE FARMSTAY

For a peaceful and relaxing visit. experience farm life.

Phone (02) 6358 8288“Eagles View”

394 Vulcan Rd, Running Streamwww.TheCubbyHouseFarmstay.com.au where to stay

Foxwood Farm Café

Lansallos B&B

Dunville Loop

Capertee

Capertee Valley Helicopters

Glen Davis

Richmond

Penrith

Great Western Highway

Bells Line of Road

Ilford

To Mudgee and Dubbo

Bogee

Lithgow

Cullen Bullen

Katoomba

Running Stream

Rylstone

Kandos

Castlereagh Highway Wollemi National Park

Capertee Valley

The CubbyhouseFarmstay

AnnaBilla Farmstay

Wheely Good 4W Drives

A GREAT GIFT!

CAPERTEE vALLEyHELICOPTERs

4675 Castlereagh Highway Information & Bookings

Ph: 02 6359 0157

Experience the thrill...

A nature based destination like no otherThe widest canyon in the world is in the Central West of New South Wales. Adjacent to The Wollemi National Park and only 3 hours from Sydney, Capertee Valley is uniquely different. Where else would you find in one area, spectacular national parks, rugged ancient escarpments, abundant birdlife, rare flowering native plants, cattle and sheep farming and diverse activities where you're not limited to

a 4wd. Stay awhile so you can experience it... fly over it... and stop at Foxwood Farm Cafe when you are passing.

Way to go

sydney & blue mountains - march

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