Bathurst, Central NSW Region — New South Wales

Bathurst is a city in New South Wales, located on the banks of Macquarie River and west of Sydney. Easily accessible through car, train, bus, or domestic flights from Sydney, Bathurst is known as a city with glorious historic past, manifested in its old buildings and homes. Many visitors come here for a bit of relaxation, to enjoy its natural surroundings, and to take part of several events hosted by the city.

One of the most anticipated events is the Bathurst 1000, an annual racing event held at Mount Panorama, just outside the city limits. Every October, numerous visitors and racing enthusiasts flock to the city during the weekend that this is held, and the city gains much profit, especially the service-related industry. When no races are scheduled, though, the race course is open to the public and visitors can try driving around for free.

Other community events to watch out for are the Bathurst Cycle Classic held in November, the Bathurst Picnic Races, and the National Trust Heritage Week.

History buffs will get satisfaction and enjoyment in touring some of the old, yet well-preserved structures in Bathurst. Along Howick Street is a workman’s cottage built early in the 19th century, and further down, at the corner of Bentinck St., are more cottages built around the same time, complete with continuous verandahs.

Another interesting structure would be the Gothic Revival-style Methodist Church, located on William Street and built in 1860. An earlier structure, now used as church hall, used to be the original church building and was constructed in 1837. This structure was even used as the town’s first national school during the late 19th century.

Along Keppel Street is the Railway Station, identified to be of High Victorian Gothic style in architecture, complete with bay windows and verandahs.

Nearby is the presently unused Flour Mill, a silent reminder that Bathurst was once known as Mill Town.

Still along Keppel Street is the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, which showcases Australian art works since 1955.

Along George Street is the Machattie Park, a fine example of a Victorian town park. The park consists of a fernery and a lake, and is a favorite destination of families and groups of friends. It also contains an ornate Victorian drinking fountain said to be imported from England in the late 19th century.

Another distinguished Victorian-style building is located along Russell Street, the courthouse. Constructed in 1880, it is considered an architectural beauty, complete with turret tower and Doric pillars. The west wing now houses the Central Western Music Centre, while the east wing is where the Historical Society Museum is located.

Visitors to Bathurst shouldn’t miss the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon, located along Kings Parade. The memorial contains numerous bells that operate around noon and 1 pm daily.

For a bit of recreation and relaxing time, visitors and locals frequent the Macquarie River Bicentennial Park, situated behind Stanley Street. The park offers amenities for bicycling and well as playground for children.

And to familiarize oneself with the city’s gold mining past, visitors can visit the Bathurst Goldfields, where tours and gold panning lessons are offered.