The Surrounds
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The town of Eugowra is only 5 minutes away and has all necessities; a police station, butcher, chemist, Multi Purpose Centre (hospital), Post Office, newsagent, craft shop, supermarket, hotel, bowling club, museum, dress shop, hairdresser and two coffee shops.
Eugowra is in the heart of bushranger country and is famous for its outstanding murals, which tell stories of renowned local bushranger, Ben Hall. Follow the Ben Hall trail to Escort Rock: the site of Australia's largest gold robbery in 1862, (just east of Eugowra). Nangar National Park is five minutes drive east of Eugowra. It is an artists paradise and noted for its spectacular views, picturesque picnic spots, bushwalking, 4WD touring and camping. Eat Your Greens Function Centre has also put Eugowra on the map. They professionally cater for weddings and other occasions of any size. Fact: Much of the granite used to build the New Parliament House in Canberra was sourced just out of Eugowra. |
A mural welcoming guests to the township of Eugowra
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Parkes
Known as the Elvis Capital of Australia, Parkes is situated only 30 minutes away. The world famous Parkes Elvis Festival is celebrated here every January. We are also a short drive to Trundle, where the Abba Festival is held annually during May. The CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope; featured in the movie, 'The Dish', is a must see whilst in the area. It was one of several radio antennas used to receive live, televised images of the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969. Admission is free. Orange
50 minutes east lies the city of Orange, Australia's colour city, renowned for its brilliant autumn foliage. The city hosts Food Week in April and Wine Week in October, laying claim to 50 wineries. Orange has numerous sidewalk cafes, restaurants, boutique shopping, galleries and theatre. A wonderful day trip from Eugowra, and a place not to be missed! Cowra
Cowra is 50 minutes south of Eugowra and home to the stunning Japanese Gardens; the largest of their type in the Southern Hemisphere. The Gardens are a symbol of peace and reconciliation between Australia and Japan. The Cowra Breakout occurred in 1944 when over 1100 Japanese prisoners of war attempted to escape from the local prison camp. It was the largest prison escape of World War Two, as well as one of the bloodiest. |
Another mural, depicting Ben Hall and his gang of bushrangers
Canowindra
A short drive south-east is the historic township of Canowindra, where in 1863 Ben Hall held the village to ransom. Take a drive and visit The Age of Fishes museum, which presently houses some specimens, many millions of years old, from one of the world's greatest fossil discoveries. The museum building was also designed by the architect who designed our homestead, John Andrews. Canowindra is also known as the Balloon Capital of Australia, with its festival, the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge, held each year in April. A game of golf, a spot of shopping, and a delicious cup of coffee are a pleasurable way to spend a morning in Canowindra. Forbes
30 minutes west lies the town of Forbes which is proud of its boutique shopping, restaurants and clubs. Forbes boasts many historic buildings, Ben Hall's grave, Red Bend Catholic College and was also the home of Ned Kelly's sister, Kate. Lake Forbes features in the centre of the town where a leisurely stroll is inviting. Each year on Good Friday Forbes plays host to Camel Races. Dubbo
Dubbo is a 90 minute drive north where the world famous, open range, Taronga Western Plains Zoo offers an experience for children and adults. Hundreds of animals from across the world can be observed closely, and if bike riding appeals, you can cycle your way around the Zoo too. |
