MARCH Bathurst Region has many unique and interesting attractions – too many to list on this sheet. Information sheets on activities, entertainment and attractions are available at Bathurst Visitor Information Centre, 1 Kendall Avenue or phone 1800 68 1000

March, April & May

Autumn Colours Program - Autumn is a beautiful time to visit and enjoy all the events and activities taking place. For a copy of the program contact Bathurst Visitor Information Centre Contact: 02 6332 1444 or 1800 68 1000

March Autumn Colours - The cool crisp colours of autumn are on display in our cottage, lovingly produced by members of Rankin Cottage Crafts. Venue: Rankin Cottage Crafts, 117 Rankin St Time: 10am to 4pm, 7 days a week Cost: free entry Contact: 6331 7572

March to May

Begonia House - begonias flower between February and May, the best time to view them is in mid-March when they are at their peak. Location: Machattie Park, Mon to Fri 9am to 4pm; weekends & p/h 11am to 3pm Cost: free Contact: 6333 6285 (business hours)

Until Sun 22

March

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Exhibitions Lola Greeno – Is a shell-worker and artist from Tasmania. Her stunning work is highly coveted by both public and private collectors. Sandra Nyberg: Heritage – During Sandra’s time participating in the Hill End Artists in Residence Program in 2013 she created a site-specific installation investigating the vernacular architecture of Hill End which will be re-created in the gallery. Juz Kitson: Changing Skin – Juz Kitson’s meticulous and detailed ceramic practice involves collecting strange and exquisite forms from the landscape, manipulating and re-inventing them to form hybrid installations that comment on the human condition, challenge the viewer and provoke a sense of awe. Mark Booth: Plastic Action – Mark creates sculptures using PVC pipe elbows to create infinite knots, which, although non-objective, reference the organic. Venue: Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, 70-78 Keppel St Time: 10am to 5pm Tues to Sat; 11am to 2pm Sun Cost: free Contact: 6333 6555

Until Sun 5 April

Bathurst Golf Challenge – This is a 9 week social golf challenge consisting of 9 holes with teams of six. Venue: Bathurst Golf Club, Orange Rd Time: various Cost: $25 registration; $11 members & $16 visitors per game Contact: 6331 1379

Sun 1 March

200 Year Hymnfest - Is a festival of hymns to celebrate the bicentenary of the city, to celebrate St David’s Day and to glorify God. Venue: All Saints’ Cathedral, Church Street Time: 2.30pm Cost: free Contact: 6331 4711

Abercrombie House & King’s Antiques Inaugural Antique Fair - Will be held in association with King’s Antiques in the heritage environs of the region’s unique historic mansion Abercrombie House, home of the Morgan family. Venue: Abercrombie House, 311 Ophir Rd Time: 9.30am to 5pm Cost: TBA – tickets at the gate Contact: 6331 4929

Bathurst Cup & Country Championships - The annual Bathurst Cup Legends Day sees the first of the country championship series in the region with unprecedented prize money on offer. Venue: Tyers Park Racecourse, 55 Eleven Mile Dr Time: 11am to 7pm Cost: adult $15; pens $5; child under 16 free Contact: 6331 2719

Cindy Fox in Concert - Solo Piano - Cindy Fox gives a solo piano recital of classical and contemporary compositions. Venue: Mitchell Conservatorium, Russell Street Time: 3pm Cost: adult $25; conc $15; family $60 Contact: 6331 6622

Clean Up Australia Day - Is a simple way you can take action to clean up, fix up and conserve our prized Australian environment. Register via website. Venue: various Cost: free Contact: 6333 6111

History Mystery Tour - Will take a new route with new destinations. Board our coach to explore the unknown history of Bathurst, hear stories from yesteryear and finish off the day with afternoon tea at a mystery location. Venue: departs from Bathurst Courthouse, Russell St Time: 1pm Cost: $10 – bookings essential Contact: 6330 8455 or 0408 084 450

Bathurst Light Car Club – Mountain Straight Hillclimb – Round two State Championships. Venue: Mount Panorama Time: from 9am Cost: spectators free Contact: 0408 659 862

Sofala Agriculture & Horticulture Show - A great family day out which showcases the talent and industry of the area. Activities include Motorex 4x4; exhibition stalls; Kurremi Garden Railway; antique machinery; animal nursery; side show; scarecrow competition; helicopter rides and a show and shine. Venue: Sofala Showground Time: 8am to 4pm Cost: adult $10; pens $8; student $8; under 15yrs free Contact: 0429 914 073

Wed 4 March

Mitchell Conservatorium @ All Saints’ Cathedral - This popular lunchtime concert is a chance to meet a friend or take a special break during a busy working day to share in the wonderful music. Venue: All Saints’ Cathedral, Church St Time: 1pm Cost: free Contact: 6331 6622

Thurs 5 March

Business Branding & Marketing Workshop - This hands-on workshop for business owners and managers provides a practical view of how Business Branding and Marketing fit together to generate sales, build market share and create customer loyalty. Venue: St Joseph’s Mount, 34 Busby St Time: 9am to 12pm Cost: $85 (early bird price before April 1st $75) – bookings essential Contact: 6373 8486

Thurs 5 & Sat 7 March

Kings Parade – a Jewel in the Crown – Learn how and why it was given its name and how it has been transformed from a wasteland into the beautiful centre of the city that it is today. Venue: Meet in Kings Parade, cnr of Russell & George Sts Time: 2pm Cost: free – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Fri 6 March

International Women’s Day - Girls Night In - Join us in celebrating women of the world. Nominate a friend, family member or colleague for their amazing feats of wisdom and courage. Support each other through recognition and appreciation! Venue: St Joseph’s Mount, 34 Busby St Time: all day Cost: free Contact: events@rahamim.org.au

Sat 7 March

Bathurst Macquarie Lions Flea Markets – Come along and support local stallholders in the lovely surroundings of Lions Berry Park. Time: 8am to 1pm Cost: free Venue: Lions Berry Park Contact: 6337 1203

From Nouveau to New Wave Vintage Fair - See a whole new range of collectables, vintage vinyl, vintage and retro items plus all the old favourites including vintage clothing, homewares, lamps, tables and lots more. Venue: Art Gallery & Library Forecourt, 70-78 Keppel St Time: 10am to 2pm Cost: free entry Contact: 6331 0723

Rockley Pub Quick Shear – enjoy this shearing spectacular. Live entertainment by Pig Iron Bob from 6.30pm. Venue: Rockley Pub, 2 Budden St, Rockley Time: 2pm Cost: free Contact: 6337 9203

Seraphim Trio - Anna Goldsworthy (piano), Helen Ayres (violin) and Timothy Nankervis (cello) focus on the music of Beethoven and will track the evolution in Beethoven’s compositional style. Venue: Mitchell Conservatorium, Russell St Time: 7pm Cost: adult $25; conc $15; family $60 Contact: 6331 6622

The Sustainable Lifestyle House – Funded by Bathurst Regional Council to improve awareness and encourage the adoption of sustainable building design. Venue: 17 McGirr St, (cnr Blaxland Dr-off Darwin Dr) Time: 9am to 12pm Cost: free Contact: 6333 6276

Where the Vale enters the Macquarie and its Surrounds - Join this tour and journey back to the period before and after the railways arrived in Bathurst. Get a better understanding of the area around lower Havannah, Durham & Bryant Streets, the people who lived there and how it helped Bathurst on its journey of development. Venue: Departs from Bathurst Visitor Information Centre, 1 Kendall Avenue Time: 1pm Cost: free – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Sat 7 & Sun 8 March

Bathurst Arts Trail – Painters, potters, glass artists, sculptors and printmakers showcase their talents in town and country studios and galleries and are on hand to talk to visitors. Maps and brochures with opening hours and venues are available from Bathurst Visitor Information Centre. Golden Bali flags indicate an artist nearby. Time: 10am to 4pm Cost: free entry Contact: 0400 130 792

Beekeeping Course - Join Tim Malfroy of Malfroy's Gold as he leads you through the basics of bee-friendly, natural, organic, small-scale beekeeping, providing you with competent knowledge of the fundamentals of natural beekeeping. Venue: St Joseph’s Mount, 34 Busby St Time: 9am to 5pm Cost & Contact: visit www.milkwood.com.au

Buddens Rockley Bank Tea Rooms - Open each month to coincide with the Bathurst Arts’ Trail. Enjoy local artist Gregg Cross’ exhibition of regional landscapes in pastels. Taste delicious autumn delights from the menu or enjoy a coffee on the verandah overlooking Rockley weir or indoors by the fire in the banking chamber. Venue: 18 Budden Street, Rockley Time: 10.30am to 5pm Cost: various Contact: 6337 9279

Bathurst Autofest - Is a Performance Car Festival that includes all the high octane action such as Heads Up, Side by Side, Go To Whoa, Dyno Shootout, Super Sprints and the almighty Burnout Showdown. Venue: Mount Panorama Time: 9am to 5pm Cost: refer to website Contact: 0417 511 557

Sat 7, Sun 8, Sat 21 March

Turon Technology Museum – See steam and internal combustion engines c1850 to 1950, illustrating the technology behind these impressive power sources. Take a guided tour around the exhibits then wander at your leisure. Please call before heading out. Venue: 5833 Ilford Road, Sofala Time: 10am to 4pm Cost: $8 p/p; under 12 free; family $24 Contact: 6358 8434

Sun 8 March

Bathurst Cemetery Wander - Join us for a wander around the Bathurst general cemetery, exploring the history and lives of past Bathurst residents. Enjoy a delicious morning tea supplied by the Family History Group. Bring a hat, water, sunscreen and wear sturdy walking shoes. Venue: Meet at Dean Street entrance to Bathurst Cemetery: 9am Cost: $5 – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Bathurst Showground Markets – Presented by Bathurst AH&P Association these markets offer local seasonal fruit, vegetables and produce, home-made preserves, confectionery, craft, artwork, clothing, gifts, jewellery, tools, bric-a-brac and much more. Venue: Bathurst Showground, Kendall Ave Time: 9am to 1pm Cost: free Contact: 0419 238 611

Sun 8 March

Brucedale Twilight Concert – Featuring a variety of popular and classical musical pieces reflecting the bicentenary, performed by local musicians and artists. Before the concert there will be an optional conducted tour to the grave of Windradyne, a significant local indigenous leader in the early days of white settlement. Bring a picnic, rug or cushion and enjoy the beautiful venue. Tea and coffee available. Venue: Brucedale Homestead, 1361 Sofala Rd, Peel Time: gates open 2pm; concert starts 5pm Cost: adult $15; conc $10; family $40 Contact: 6331 2770

Queen of The Sun Pedal Power Movie - This film is a profound, alternative look at the global bee crisis. Taking us on a journey through the catastrophic disappearance of bees and the mysterious world of the beehive, this engaging and ultimately uplifting film weaves an unusual and dramatic story of the heartfelt struggles of beekeepers, scientists and philosophers from around the world. Venue: St Joseph’s Mount, 34 Busby St Time: 2.30pm Cost: $5 per person

Mon 9, Tues 10 & Wed 11 March

The Listies make You LOL! - Comedy for Kids (and their Adults) A few years ago Rich and Matt decided to shake up the world of kids’ comedy and The Listies were born. They have become Australia’s most sought after family comedians. Venue: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William St Time: Mon 6.30pm; Tues & Wed 10am Cost: $18 to $26 Contact: 6333 6161

Thurs 12 & Sat 14 March

The Magic and Mystery of Machattie Park - Discover the magic, mystery and myths of Machattie Park. On this tour the true stories will be revealed, together with details of how the park was designed, named and developed. Hear also the stories behind the many memorials and magnificent trees, some of which are over 100 years old. Sensible walking shoes and hats are recommended. Venue: Meet at Machattie Park, cnr of Russell & George Sts Time: 2pm Cost: free - bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Fri 13 March

Abercrombie House Friday Night Jazz – Join us for a cosy, intimate night of jazz featuring the Blue Note Jazz Band and occasional guest musicians and vocalists. Ticket cost includes cheese and fruit platters plus a glass of complimentary wine, tea and coffee. Venue: Abercrombie House, 311 Ophir Rd Time: 8.30pm Cost: $40 – bookings essential. Tickets available from Bathurst Visitor Information Centre, 1 Kendall Avenue Contact: 6331 4929

Sat 14 March

Americana – a classical concert featuring Jessica Harper & Blake Parham - Acclaimed young soprano Jessica Harper is joined by tenor Blake Parham for an intimate concert of superb chamber music in the magnificent ballroom at Abercrombie House. Venue: Abercrombie House, 311 Ophir Rd Time: 6.30pm for 7pm Cost: adult $20; conc $15; students $10 – bookings essential. Contact: 6331 4929

Back to Sofala - Sofala will be holding a ‘Back to Sofala’ day with re-enactments by the Rebellion on the Turon. Held in the school grounds, there will be children’s activities, memorabilia, photos and a chance to meet former school friends. Venue: Sofala Public School, Turon Terrace, Sofala Time: 10am to 3pm Cost: free entry Contact: 6337 7187

Bathurst & District Relay For Life 2015 - Is a fun, outdoor, overnight fundraising event that brings the community of Bathurst together to celebrate and remember the lives of those who have battled cancer. Teams take turns to walk or run around a track while enjoying entertainment, activities and moving ceremonies. Venue: Bathurst Showground, Kendall Ave Time: 3.45pm Sat 14 to 10am Sun 15 March Cost: $20 Contact: 6392 0800

Bathurst NRL Penrith Panthers v Titans Game - Bathurst Regional Council and Penrith Panthers proudly present the second Bathurst NRL game. Be part of all the action – kids’ activities, on ground entertainment and a variety of food and beverage stalls. Venue: Carrington Park Time: gates open 11am; main game kick off 4.30pm Cost: from adult $25; conc $15; child $10; family $45 Contact: bathurstnrl.com.au

Community Planting Day – Browning Street Reserve - Conservation Volunteers along with Bathurst Regional Council will be hosting a Community Tree Planting Day at Browning Street Reserve as part of the Racing to Save the Mount Panorama Woodlands project. Venue: Browning Street Reserve (cnr Browning & Wilkins Sts) Time: 9am to 2pm Cost: free Contact: 0428 386 549

Del Shannon - 25th Anniversary Celebrations - Internationally renowned artist Fallon will take you on a magical tribute to mark the 25th anniversary of the passing of the legendary Del Shannon. Venue: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William St Time: 8pm Cost: adult $65; conc $60 Contact: 6333 6161

Mitchell String Quartet - This fresh and exciting string ensemble comprised of Central West based musicians Fiona Thompson (viola), Nicholas Neweell (violin), Andrew Baker (violin) and Sybbi Georgiou (cello) with special guest Stephanie Baker on violin, will be performing an autumn serenade of beautiful music. Venue: Mitchell Conservatorium, Russell St Time: 7pm Cost: adult $25; conc $15; family $60 Contact: 6331 6622

Morrisset St Garage Sale - One of Bathurst’s best kept secrets: an annual street garage sale. Walk along the street and browse the myriad of items for sale from pot plants, books, furniture, preloved treasures and specials from Riverside Nursery. Venue: Morrisset St Time: 11am to 3pm Cost: free Contact: 6332 2661

Sat 14 March

St John’s Revival – Feast in an Historic Stone Chapel - Join Vale Creek, Grass Parrot and Renzaglia Wines with chef Nicole Christensen from the Wholefood Kitchen. Wine and dine in the heritage listed Edward Gell-designed, decommissioned Gothic stone chapel at Georges Plains. Venue: St John’s Church, St Johns Road, Georges Plains Time: 6.30pm for 7pm Cost: $140 Contact: mark@renzagliawines.com.au

The Vale Motorcycle Racing Circuit 1931 – 1937 - Join this guided bus tour around the circuit where you can hear of the spills, thrills and action of yesteryear. At the conclusion of the tour visit the National Motor Racing Museum (entry included). Venue: Bus departs from the National Motor Racing Museum, Mount Panorama Time: 1pm Cost: $12 – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Sat 14 & Sun 15 March

Evans Arts Council Flower & Floral Craft Exhibition & Sale - This annual flower show showcases anything floral including flowers, plants, craft, photography, woodcraft, tapestry, paper craft and jewellery. There will also be a display by the Central West Dahlia Society. Venue: Trevitt Pavillion, Bathurst Showground Time: Sat 9am to 4pm; Sun 10am to 1pm Cost: free Contact: 6337 9903

Rebellion on the Turon - Be part of the 1853 Turon Rebellion re-enactment and tremble through a weekend complete with cannons, floggings, shootings and duels, market stalls, exhibitions and more. Rebellion coincides with the Back to Sofala event. Venue: Sofala Time: 10am to 4pm Cost: free Contact: 6337 7587

Sat 14 - Sun 22 March

2015 Seniors’ Week Activities – Seniors can socialise, learn and be entertained with a wide variety of activities. A full program with times, venues and costs will be available from Bathurst Council Chambers in Russell St Venue: various Cost: various Contact: 6333 6146

Sun 15 March

A Settler’s Cottage Open House - Visit three charming semi-detached workers’ cottages from the late 1800s. For many years they have been run as an accommodation business and have become a popular heritage stay with visitors. Browse or take a tour of these heritage homes in the historic Keppel Street precinct. View a local history photographic exhibition. Venue: 140-142-144 Keppel St Time: 2pm to 5pm. Guided tours run 2.15pm & 3pm Cost: free – self-browsing & guided tours – bookings essential for guided tour Contact: 6337 511

Bathurst Miniature Railway - Take the kids down to the miniature railway to enjoy a few rides on working scale model trains just across the road from the Adventure Playground. Covered shoes must be worn. Venue: John Matthews Sporting Complex, Durham St Time: 11am to 3pm; 3rd Sunday of each month Cost: $2 per ride Contact: 6331 5798

Long Swamp Cemetery Tour - Explore historic Long Swamp Cemetery, which has been regenerated through the dedication of volunteers. Headstones have been restored and information recorded on the 75 people buried from 1862 to 1965. Hear about early colonial life, its hardships, sadness and triumphs through the stories of those buried there. Bring a hat, drink and your walking shoes. Venue: Long Swamp Cemetery, 277 Old Trunk Rd, Arkell Time: 1pm Cost: $5 – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

St Stanislaus’ P&F Autumn Fair - A great family day out. Enjoy all the usual stalls plus the new ‘horizontal bungee run’. Venue: School ground (rear of main building), 220 Bentinck St Time: 11am Cost: free Contact: 6337 3511

Sun 15 & Sun 22 March

William Amer presents Songs of Old Ireland – A St Patrick’s Day celebration in song and words. Venue: 15th - Rockley Village Hall, Hill St; 22nd – Bathurst City Community Club, cnr William & Durham Sts Time: 1.30pm for 2pm Cost: 15th - adult $15; student $10; primary school child free (please bring exact money. 22nd -$20 (pre-paid tickets only). Tickets available from Books Plus, 177 Howick St Contact: 6337 9410

Mon 16 March

Bathurst Thoroughbred Race Meeting - Tyers Park is the key racing centre for the Central Districts region and a vital supplier of race meetings for 2nd tier metropolitan and provincial trained gallopers. Venue: Tyers Park Racecourse, 55 Eleven Mile Dr Time: 1pm to 5.30pm Cost: adult $10; pens $5; child free Contact: 6331 2719

Wed 18 to Sat 25 March

Alabar Gold Crown Carnival - Is Bathurst Harness Racing Club’s event for the Bathurst Bicentenary. There will be seven race meetings and social events over a 10 day period. The social events include Honouree Dinner, Ambrose Golf Day, Calcutta, cocktail party and yearling sale. Venue: Group 1 Feeds Paceway, 169 College Rd Time: race meetings 6pm to 10pm Cost: adult $10; pens $5; child under 16 free Contact: 6333 5000

Thurs 19 March

First Things First – There’s a first time for everything - From one of Australia’s most innovative performing artists, Joseph Simons, comes First Things First – a one-man show of technically virtuosic dance and hilarious physical theatre that explores the art of ‘getting used to it’. Venue: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William St Time: 8pm Cost: $22 to $45 Contact: 6333 6161

Fri 20 March

Abercrombie House Devonshire Tea Day - Celebrate the beautiful autumn weather with a special traditional Devonshire Tea with hot scones, homemade jam, whipped cream, leaf tea and plunger coffee on the gracious front veranda of historic Abercrombie House. It’s also Seniors Week so grandparents are particularly welcome. Venue: Abercrombie House, 311 Ophir Rd Time: 10.30am to 12.30pm Cost: $10 - tickets available from Bathurst Visitor Information Centre, 1 Kendall Ave Contact: 6331 4929 w abercrombiehouse.com.au

Sat 21 March

Harmony Day - Celebrate Harmony Day 2015 with a free multicultural morning tea and live entertainment. Everybody is welcome. Venue: Bathurst Library Forecourt, 70-78 Keppel St. Time: TBA Cost: free Contact: 6333 6146

Sat 21 March

Bathurst Panorama Chorus presents Gala Dinner & Fundraiser – featuring Scott Cam. Enjoy champagne and canapés on arrival and a three course dinner. Fundraising auction includes behind the scenes tour for two of The Block 2015 with Scott Cam; trip for two to Uluru; four Bledisloe Cup tickets and Fast Track Motor Sport experience. Venue: Pit Complex Mt Panorama Time: 6.30pm Cost: $150 p/p; $135 p/p (booking of 10) Contact: trybooking.com/GRFH

Sun 22 March

Antique Valuation Day - With over 40 years experience in the antique trade, auctioneer and valuer Martin King will donate his time and expertise to discuss and evaluate treasures. All proceeds will be donated to Carenne School and Glenray Industries. Venue: King’s Antiques, 151-153 George St Time: 11am to 2pm Cost: $5 donation for two items Contact: 0417 785 495

Sun 22 March

My Block – A walk and talk around a Bathurst block – Ever wondered what has happened on the block where you live? This tour starts to unravel the history of your front yard, taking you around Block 37, encompassing William, Rocket, George and Lambert Streets. You will learn about Bathurst architecture and hear stories about the characters, entrepreneurs and residents who were associated with the block. Venue: Meet at the corner of Rocket Street & Forrest Place Time: 10am Cost: free – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

The Scots School Highland Gathering - This iconic event brings a taste of Scotland to Bathurst. See pipe bands from NSW compete, enjoy equestrian show jumping, highland dancing, Scottish heritage and a range of commercial stalls. Carnival rides and free activities for the kids. Venue: The Scots School, 4173 O’Connell Rd Time: 10am to 4pm Cost: $2; under 3 free Contact: 6331 2766

Walking Tour of Historic Kelso - The first inland grants to the early settlers in the Bathurst area were given on the right bank of the Macquarie River; this location became known as ‘Kelso’. Join this walking tour of historic Kelso to explore the history and lives of its residents. Venue: Old Butcher’s Shop (cnr Great Western Highway and Gilmour St, carpark entry off Gilmour St, Kelso) Time: 1pm Cost: $15 – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Thurs 26 March

Mapping and Surveying NSW for 200 Years - Then and Now - In December 1813 George Evans was the first European to reach the site of present day Bathurst. He was an explorer, but also a surveyor f the office of the NSW Surveyor General. This is a unique opportunity to appreciate the work of Evans and others in the early 1800s as well as the benefits of technology of the 2000s. Venue: Land and Property Information, 346 Panorama Ave Time: 10am Cost: free – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Fri 27 March

Getting Laid: Bathurst Town Square Foundation Stones - Foundation Stones offer interesting insights into the people and times when now-historic buildings were built. In this walking tour, visit five foundation stones, hear their stories and meet a general, a colonial minister, a prime minister and a widow or two. Easy access short walk. Venue: Meet at Bathurst District Historical Society Museum, Russell Street Time: 2pm Cost: free – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Simon & Garfunkel – The Concert - With impeccable musicianship and record sales in excess of 70 million, Simon & Garfunkel are arguably the greatest vocal duo of all time. Shelley & Robertson with full backing band will relive the songs, the times, the music and those impeccable harmonies. Venue: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William St Time: 8pm Cost: $45 to $55 Contact: 6333 6161

Fri 27 March to

Sun 14 June

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (BRAG) BRAG 200 X 200 - Spanning 200 years and featuring 200 works, this exhibition showcases the breadth and quality of the BRAG collection. A BRAG Bathurst200 Project. (HEART)LAND - Bathurst artists celebrate the history, heritage and the here and now of the place they call home. A BRAG B200 Project. Venue: 70-78 Keppel St Time: Tues to Sat 10am to 5pm; Sun and most public holidays 10am to 2pm; closed Mon Cost: free entry Contact: 6333 6555

Sat 28 March

Bathurst Farmers’ Markets – A Lions Club project. Come and meet the local growers and taste their fresh seasonal produce. Free range eggs, meat, gourmet pies, honey, jams, mustards, plants, shrubs, flowers, fresh fruit and vegetables are just part of the produce on sale. Time: 8am to 12pm Cost: gold coin donation Venue: Bathurst Showground, Kendall Ave Contact: 6331 2842

Bathurst Courthouse Tour - One way to see inside Bathurst Courthouse is to commit a crime. For one weekend only, there is another way – join volunteers for a rare glimpse of the internal workings of Bathurst’s most impressive building. Meet on the steps of the Courthouse 10 minutes prior to start time. Venue: Bathurst Courthouse, Russell St Time: guided tours at 10.30am & 1.30pm Cost: gold coin donation Contact: 6330 8455

Bathurst District Historical Society Museum History Weekend - Experience Bathurst’s rich history and heritage as Australia’s first inland settlement. Take guided tours of the museum including the Bushranger Display, tour of the Bathurst Courthouse, free photo scanning of historical photos, free prizes and giveaways! Venue: Bathurst District Historical Society Museum, Russell St Time: 10am to 4pm Cost: free entry into museum; gold coin donation for Bathurst Courthouse tour Contact: 6330 8455

Sat 28 March

Bathurst Farmers’ Markets Cooking Class - Join Anna at the Bathurst Farmers Market and participate in a cooking class using local produce. Come prepared with an apron and a hearty appetite for cooking. The price includes a sample bag, recipes and hands-on experience. Venue: Bathurst Showground, Kendall Ave Time: 9am to 11am Cost: $75 Contact: 5311 1004

Behind the Signs - Join a preview walk along ‘A Delightful Spot Heritage Trail’ the day before its official opening with one of the trail’s creators. Hear the stories behind the interpretation signs and visit sites without signage – including the piggery, police cottage and soldiers’ dunny. Easy access short walk. Venue: meet at Bathurst City Community Club, 29 William St Time: guided tour 10.30am Cost: free – bookings essential Contact: 6332 1444

Cathedral Parish Fete - The Parish of St Michael & St John is celebrating the sesquicentenary (150 years) of the Cathedral in 2015. To celebrate this occasion there will be a display in conjunction with fete activities. Come along and take a trip down memory lane. Venue: Cathedral of St Michael & St John carpark, Keppel St Time: 11am to 1pm Cost: free entry Contact: 0408 060 352

Concert for the Planet For the very first time experience local live orchestral performances alongside live streaming of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra in a multi-location, mass participation performance of Holst’s The Planets in recognition and celebration of Earth Day 2015. Supported by the Global Orchestra in partnership with the SSO. Venue: Mitchell Conservatorium, Russell St Time: 7pm Cost: free Contact: 6331 6622

Earth Hour - Is the single, largest, symbolic mass participation event in the world. It inspires a global community of millions of people in 7,001 cities and towns across 162 countries and territories to switch lights off for an hour as a massive show of concern for the environment. Venue: worldwide Time: 8.30pm to 9.30pm

Earth Hour Pedal Power Movie Screening with Woodfired Pizza - Join us for an ecological film event where the viewer’s participate by taking their turn to power the movie by bicycle! Ticket cost includes woodfired pizza. Venue: St Joseph’s Mount, 34 Busby St Time: 8pm Cost: adult $10; under 12 $5 – bookings advised Contact: 6332 9950

Walking Tour of the Historic Village of Rockley - This guided tour commences with a short talk at the Rockley Mill & Stables Museum, followed by a stroll around the village which includes a viewing of two Edward Gell churches. Finish with afternoon tea at the historic School of Arts Hall. Venue: Rockley Mill & Stables Museum, Budden St Time: guided tour 2pm Cost: $10 – bookings essential Contact: 6337 9279 or 6337 9381

Sustainable Living Expo - Is a great opportunity to pick up tips on making your home cleaner and greener and to experience native animals and plants. The expo is being held in the lovely atmosphere of the Farmers’ Markets with plenty to see and do for the whole family. Venue: Bathurst Showground, Kendall Ave Time: 8am to 12pm Cost: free – gold coin donation to Farmers’ Markets Contact: 6333 6552

Sat 28 & Sun 29 March

Future Creation Weekend - Remove limitations and create compelling forward action. Activate your future now. Set in a beautiful historic venue, this retreat is suitable for individuals or couples. Lunch and materials included. Venue: St Joseph’s Mount, 34 Busby St Cost: Individual $998; couples $1,890 Contact: 6373 8486

Sun 29 March

A Delighful Spot, a Heritage Garden and 20 Pillars of Bathurst (Official Launch) - Welcome to ‘A Delightful Spot’ where the European settlement of Bathurst began 200 years ago. Find out about the sites and stories of Bathurst’s beginnings with past Bathurstians who have added something special to the story of the Bathurst Region. Discover a kitchen garden from the Georgian/Victorian era. Venue: Old Government Cottage, 16 Stanley St Time: 11am to 12pm Cost: free Contact: 6333 6158

Bathurst’s Best Beards Competition – Novelty Beard Judging - This fun competition is being held to raise money for the 2015 2BS Lions Miracle Christmas Appeal. To enter this free contest visit 2BS.com.au. Novelty beard categories judged Sunday 29 March with the grand final judged Saturday 9 May. Venue: refer to website for location Time: refer to website for time Cost: free Contact: 6331 8766

Bathurst District Historical Society Museum History Weekend – Old Government Cottage - As part of this wonderful weekend, the Old Government Cottage Bicentennial Heritage Garden will be officially opened. The project recreates a Georgian/Victorian kitchen garden incorporating vegetables, picking garden, herbs, berries and fruit trees typical in Bathurst 175 years ago. Venue: Old Government Cottage, 16 Stanley St Time: 10am to 4pm Cost: free Contact: 6330 8455

Pioneer Picnic - Bathurst Wholefood Co-op together with Wholefood Kitchen has created a food event to help celebrate Bathurst’s bicentenary. The Pioneer Picnic will be held in conjunction with other events happening down by the river. Enjoy a picnic of colonial food with friends and family in a beautiful garden. Hampers can be pre-purchased on the day. Venue: Bicentennial River Park, Macquarie River Time: from 12pm Contact: 0423 902 519

All care has been taken to ensure this information is correct at the time of publishing. If you wish to include any events

in the What’s On Calendar, please contact: Bathurst Visitor Information Centre, 1 Kendall Avenue t 02 6332 1444 or 1800 68 1000 e visitors@bathurst.nsw.gov.au w www.visitbathurst.com.au