Roaring 20s Festival: Bringing chutzpah back

Celebrate the opulent era when Australia’s first tourist destination kicked up its heels for a decade-long party. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

It’s almost time to clad your chassis (female body) in your glad rags (“going out on the town’’ clothes) for a copacetic (wonderful) time to celebrate the opulent era when Australia’s first tourist destination kicked up its heels for a decade-long party.

The Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism Roaring 20s Festival and all that Jazz will be held throughout the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region from February 7 to 22, and is for any egg (person who lives the big life) who loves a shindig (party).

Dance your way into history at the Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

The festival will again kick off with the Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge at the newly re-opened Hydro Majestic Hotel, conveniently opposite Medlow Bath railway station, on Saturday, February 7.

The challenge aims to break its own Guinness World Record for the greatest number of costumed people to dance the Charleston. It set the record with 276 in 2013, 319 in 2014 – let’s make it 350 in 2015. Registrations are now open via the festival website.

The celebration of decadence, architecture and jazz music will continue with a dizzying round of costumed balls and high teas, historical walks, fashion parades, outrageous dancing and jazz music.

There will be the exquisite Long Lunch with gourmet food and wine event at an exciting new venue, 1920s-themed transport rallies and film nights, garden tours, murder mysteries, radio plays, vintage sports and more.

Popular TV personality Claudia Chan Shaw will again be festival patron. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Popular TV personality Claudia Chan Shaw will again be festival patron and Charlotte Smith, curator of The Darnell Collection of International Vintage Couture, will be its ambassador.

Festival director Angela Corkeron said it was a great opportunity for locals and visitors to dress up and relive the era of true extravagance.

“The 1920s was a time to celebrate – the drudgery of World War I was gone, people were happy and kicked up their heels to show it.

“Everything was almost a dare: the fashion, the makeup, ladies’ traditionally long hair was cut short, skirt lengths rose so that one caught a glimpse of elegant ankles and the dancing was matched by the fabulous rise of jazz and ragtime music.’’

Definitely not for a flat tyre (dull-witted, insipid, disappointing date) or Mrs Grundy (priggish, tight-laced person), the festival is the calendar highlight for flappers (stylish, brash, hedonistic young woman with short skirts and hair), fly boys (glamorous term for aviator), owls (person who’s out late) and any Sheba (woman with sex appeal) or sheik (man with sex appeal) out to whoopee (have a good time).

The festival celebrates the elegance and style of the 1920s era. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism chairman Daniel Myles said: “The Roaring 20s Festival has brought the chutzpah back to the original hedonistic holiday destination and given people yet another reason to visit.

“The grand hotels of the era – the Carrington, Mountain Heritage and now the Hydro Majestic – have, one by one, been restored back to their glorious heyday and are now overflowing with the wonderful characters they were made for.

“Then there’s the Glamour & Gowns Ball at Lithgow’s Civic Ballroom, which was spectacularly decked out last year, and everyone can experience the age of steam and industry at the Highlands Steam & Vintage Fair at Oberon.’’

Events will be held throughout the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

So get a wiggle on, don a swanky outfit and shake your gams (a woman’s legs) for a hotsy totsy (pleasing), nifty (great) time of sumptuous architecture, costume balls and high teas, saucy clothing, outrageous (for the time) dancing and jazz music.

Stay a night or three and fully immerse yourself in the era.

Go to roaring20s.com.au for more information about the Roaring 20s Festival and all that Jazz.

Go to visitbluemountains.com.au for accommodation, dining and activity options.

The Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge is a great activity for the whole family. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Oberon: spring open gardens

Spring blooms abound in and around Oberon this weekend.

By Oberon Plateau Tourism Association

Soak up the warm weather, leave the rat race behind and amble among the open gardens of Oberon this weekend.

Take your pick from:

Gairloch Garden at Oberon.

Gairloch Garden

Take a stroll among a beautiful alpine flower garden and delightful cool climate trees such as Japanese maples and conifers. Water is featured in many parts of the garden.

Tucked away in the back of the garden are a variety of bird aviaries and Meg’s prize winning Chinese Silkies and gold and silver Seabrights

Each year return visitors will find something new to surprise and delight them.

Gairloch Garden, 27 Blenheim Ave Oberon, is the home of Meg and Peter Low. Entry: $5 donated to charity. Details: (02) 6336 0291.

 

Amble among the flowers.

The Oberon and District Garden Club

The club has selected six beautiful local gardens for you to enjoy between 10am and 4pm this spring.

They vary from two small neighbouring village gardens to larger rural spreads including newly-established gardens and well-established mature gardens.

Whatever the age or size, each garden will delight in the variety of cold climate plantings. Two gardens are situated in Oberon township while the other four are conveniently in the Chatham-Valley-Ginkin area, making access easy.

Entry:  $12 for all gardens. Tickets available from Oberon Visitors Information Centre, Ross St, or from individual gardens.  Details: Oberon Visitors Information Centre (02) 6329 8310.

 

The Water Garden at Mayfield Garden.

Mayfield Garden

Inspired by the grandeur of English country gardens, Mayfield Garden is one of the largest privately owned cool climate gardens in the world.

The private garden is open each day until Sunday, November 2, although the Water Garden is now open throughout the year.

Mid week visitors can see the garden team at work, have lunch or morning tea at the newly opened café and weekend visitors can experience live entertainment, delicious catering options and a shuttle bus service between the Water Garden and the Chapel.

Mayfield Garden is at 530 Mayfield Rd, Oberon. Cost: adults $25, family $65, child $10 (6 years and under free). Details: (02) 6336 3131.

The Water Garden is open year round.

Follow your feet this Festival of Walking

Follow your feet. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Saunter around spring gardens, tramp along a track, climb down a canyon and stroll along the street. Whatever walk you choose this Festival of Walking, let your feet guide your way.

The “no brainer’’ festival which showcases the magnificent Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area and the walking activities within it continues through the school holidays and until October 19.

BMLOT chairman Daniel Myles. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

BMLOT chairman Daniel Myles said: “The Festival of Walking is a fantastic opportunity to experience the whole gamut of walking activities we have in this world-famous region, from easy street strolls, garden ambles and brisk walks through to hardcore treks into remote areas.

“Activities are held throughout the week, so why not beat the crowds, take a gulp of our fresh air and book a bed for a short break mid-week.’’

The Festival of Walking continues throughout the school holidays and until October 19. Visitors and locals can choose from an extensive list at festivalofwalking.com.au including:

Valley of the Waters Walk and Grand Canyon walks with Tread Lightly Eco Tours (September 26, 27 and 28): Experience spectacular waterfalls, lush rainforests, remote wilderness, eucalyptus forest, deep gorges and canyons, towering sandstone escarpments 300m high and valleys 800m deep. Cost: from $135 with a picnic lunch. Exclusive and tailors tours available. Bookings: 0414 976 752 or ecotours@treadlightly.com.au.

National Parks Discover Wild Waratahs Walks with Mount Tomah Foundation Friends, September 27: Search for the NSW floral emblem in the wild along Pierce’s Pass with a Discovery Ranger, learn about the national park and see how waratahs are responding after the 2013 fires. Cost: $15 adults, $7.50 children (6-16 years). Bookings: (02) 9231 8182 or Blue Mountains Botanic Garden.

Wild Waratahs Walk. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

The Fairmont Walk with Life’s An Adventure in association with Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains, Saturdays until October 19: Discover cool fern-filled gullies, pockets of rainforests and a series of lookouts with uninterrupted views of the Jamison Valley on this family adventure. Uncover habitats and the secrets of plants and animals. Stay overnight at the Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains (bookings: (02) 4785 0000). Cost: $50 adults, $30 children (8-16 years) walk only includes morning tea, guide and transfers to and from Fairmont Resort. Bookings:  Bookings (02) 9975 4553 or Life’s An Adventure.

A Hike in History with Blue Mountains Guides, every Friday until October 17: Descend through a steep gorge of temperate rainforest, traverse along Lindemans Pass, see beautiful views of Mt Solitary and the Jamison (Kedumba) Valley and climb close enough to waterfalls to freshen your face. Cost: $180. Bookings: Blue Mountains Guides.

The Dunphy Kowmung Walk will be a highlight of the Festival of Walking. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Dunphy’s Kowmung Adventure Walk with the Colong Foundation for Wilderness. Features a range of short walks, overnight camps, campfires, celebrations and wilderness adventures. Take part as a walker or camp and celebrate around a campfire. Details: Colong Foundation.

Ruined Castle – A Fairy Tale or Basalt Castle? with Life’s An Adventure, September 28, October 1 and 9: Ride the Scenic Railway, hike to Ruined Castle, traverse the Jamison Valley and climb Ruined Castle to take in 360 degree views. Cost:  $225 adults, $165 children includes lunch ($249 adults, $165 children outside festival days). Bookings: (02) 9975 4553 or Life’s An Adventure.

Tomah Spur Wilderness Walk with Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, October 8: Learn about Blue Mountains plants and wildlife and the different environments on the conservation land. Travel through a carpet of ferns, moss-laden rocks and lush green rainforest with towering trees before emerging onto a rock outcrop with spectacular views of the Blue Mountains. Includes a talk on the Wollemi pine to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of its discovery. Cost:  $95. Bookings: (02) 4567 3019 or email kristen.winder@rbgsyd.nsw.au.

Glow Worm Tunnel with Wilderness Adventures, October 2: See the famous glow worms which light the disused railway tunnel then follow the old railway and explore the history of the area. Marvel at pagoda rock formations and magnificent views into the Wolgan Valley. Cost: $250 (normally $350) includes meals and snacks. Bookings: (02) 4787 1119 or 0403 860 820 or email info@wildernessadventures.net.au.

Cox’s River Overnight Fishing & Bushwalking, Wilderness Adventures, October 4-6: Visit the lower reaches of the Cox’s River and help threatened native species by fishing for introduced carp. Cost:  $200 per person includes all meals and snacks (gear available). Bookings: (02) 4787 1119 or 0403 860 820 or email info@wildernessadventures.net.au.

Tigersnake Canyon, High n Wild, October 4 and 11: Walk through the Wollemi National Park to arrive at the beginning of the canyon, a slot in the ground barely 1m wide, through which you will abseil into the canyon. Practice your abseiling skills further before abseiling next to a spectacular waterfall. Marvel as the canyon opens into a rainforest gully before dropping into a dark chasm, sliding down between two canyon walls. Cost:  $199 includes lunch. Bookings:  (02) 4782 6224 or info@highandwild.com.au.

The Glow Worm Tunnel walk is a family activity. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

The Cox’s Road walks, the Hartley Valley community, various dates: Walk with informed local guides country traversed by explorers Blaxland, Lawson and Wentworth in 1813, surveyor Evans in 1813-1814, road builder Cox in 1814-1815 and Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1815. Cost:  $65 (must be over 12 years of age) includes lunch and admission into A Moment in Time exhibition. Bookings:  0414 506 643 or hartleyprogress@gmail.com.

Deep Pass & River Caves Adventure, High n Wild, October 5 and 12: Explore two slot canyons in the Wollemi Wilderness. Begin with a bushwalk to the start of Deep Pass Canyon. Unusually, the trip travels upstream, climbing waterfalls and scrambling around deep pools before descending into the deep, dark, mysterious River Caves. Keep your eye out for rare blue yabbies. Cost:  $180 includes lunch. Bookings:  (02) 4782 6224 or info@highandwild.com.au.

Other upcoming walks include Katoomba Hidden & Forgotten Places, Lockley’s Pylon, Extreme Beer Walk, Woodford Academy Guided Walk to Mable Falls, Varuna Writer’s Ramble, Central West Wine with Nibbles, Leura Gardens Festival (October 5-12), Mayfield Garden walks (now open full-time, Oberon Historic Township and Kanangra Boyd Waterfall Walk.

Of course visitors and locals can go on self-guided walks at any time. The Greater Blue Mountains National Park contains more than 400 walking tracks (go to Blue Mountains National Park walks) and sites such as Hartley Historic Village are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Go to www.festivalofwalking.com.au for more information.

• Wherever you walk, practice safe walking habits: plan ahead, wear appropriate clothing and footwear, carry plenty of water and food, register your walk at Springwood or Katoomba police station or the NPWS visitor centre at Blackheath where you can borrow for free a personal locator beacon and stay on the track.
  

  A range of guided walks such as this one with an NPWS Discovery Ranger are available. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

 

Blue Mountains pit stop for Bathurst 1000

V8 Supercar driver Craig Lowndes takes in the views before an abseil at Narrowneck with High and Wild. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Heading to the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 on October 9 to 12? Break your trip with a pit stop in the Blue Mountains.

During a recent promotional visit to the area, Mt Panorama great Red Bull driver Craig Lowndes said he was a fan of the Blue Mountains, which was a great stopover or base for Bathurst race goers.

In fact, the five-time Bathurst 1000 champion and eight time Sandown winner and his family stayed at Blackheath Glen Tourist Park for several days on their way to the Bathurst 1000 last year.

Reigning Bathurst champion Pepsi Max Crew FPR’s Mark Winterbottom, who also attended the abseiling activity with Blue Mountains outdoor adventure business High n Wild, said: “It’s beautiful here. It’s crazy to go to Sydney, drive past this place and not stop because it is a wondrous place. I might come here for a few days before the stress of Bathurst.’’

Recharge at Leura Garage on your way to or from the Bathurst 1000. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism chairman Daniel Myles encouraged travellers to follow the race car drivers’ lead and stop in the region on their way to or from the Bathurst 1000.

“The thrill of racing down Mountain Straight or Conrod is absolutely matched by the adrenalin rush of hanging 300m above the valley floor on the end of an abseil rope.

“This region is also an ideal pit stop for petrol heads travelling to and from the races at Bathurst, so break your trip with a meal and a cuppa at, where else, but Leura Garage, the converted garage now funky cafe/restaurant.

“Gulp in our fresh mountain air, take an exhilarating walk along a clifftop track or cliff-hang on the Scenic Railway.

“Better still, stay a night or three and really recharge the batteries. Who can argue? Lowndsie said so!’’

The chequered flag will fall at the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 on October 9 to 12.

Go to visitbluemountains.com.au for more information about accommodation options, attractions and experiences in the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region.

 

2014 BMLOT Awards of Excellence winners named

Scenic World joint managing directors David and Anthea Hammon were emcees at the 2014 BMLOT Awards of Excellence. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill – Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

The best of the best tourism and hospitality businesses in the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region for 2014 were revealed at the annual Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism (BMLOT) Awards of Excellence gala dinner and awards night on Friday (August 8).

The official regional tourism organisation’s awards recognise and promote product and service quality in the regional tourism and hospitality industry.

Lithgow Mayor Maree Statham receives a Contribution to the Blue Mountains Bicentenary award from former BMLOT chairman Randall Walker. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

The black tie event traditionally attracts a glittering array of regional and state industry personalities and stakeholders including Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill, Oberon Mayor John McMahon and Lithgow Mayor Maree Statham, Oberon Council general manager Alan Cairney, Blue Mountains State MP Roza Sage and Macquarie Federal MP Louise Markus.

BMLOT chairman Daniel Myles congratulated all finalists and said he was determined to return the nation’s first tourist destination to its Number One tourism position after the October 2013 bushfires although he praised the resilience of the tourism industry.

Recently completed sections of the Great Western Hwy through the Blue Mountains was already making it easier for tourists to visit the region and more experiences, events and attractions would also tempt visitors, he said.

A strong theme of the award winner speeches was team work, with most thanking their colleagues and staff for a collective achievement.

The gala dinner and awards ceremony was held at Scenic World at Katoomba. Scenic World joint managing directors David and Anthea Hammon were emcees and entertainment was provided by Waradah Aboriginal Dancers and the Steve Morrison Jazz Band.

The BMLOT regional tourism awards feed into the NSW Tourism Awards and the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Through the support of Tourism Industry Council NSW and the generosity of sponsors, BMLOT members entered the regional awards for free. All entrants also had the opportunity to attend free submission workshops and category winners will receive free mentoring before the NSW Tourism Awards later in the year.

Jenolan Caravan Park owners Bob and Sally Parrington took out the Tourist & Caravan Parks award. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Award winners were:

1. Specialised Tourism Services: Sponsor: Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism GOLD: Ask Roz
2. Regional Tourism Ambassador Sponsor: Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism WINNER: Kellie Barrow, Lithgow City Council
3. Tourism Education & Training Sponsor: Scenic World GOLD: Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School
4. Tour Operators Sponsor: Scenic World GOLD: Life’s An Adventure
5. 

   Luxury Accommodation category winner Lorraine Allanson (Mountain Whispers). Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

   Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Sponsor: National Parks & Wildlife Service GOLD: Wild Valley Art Park

6. Apprentice of the Year Sponsor: TAFE Western Sydney Institute WINNER: Thomas Ferguson, Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
7. Young Customer Service Employee of the Year Sponsor: Scenic World WINNER: Meagan Iervasi, Lilianfels Resort & Spa
8. Customer Service Employee of the Year Sponsor: Scenic World WINNER: Jessica Fisher, Lilianfels Resort & Spa
9. Visitor Information & Services Sponsor: Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism GOLD: Oberon Visitor Information Centre
10. Contribution to the Blue Mountains Bicentenary Sponsor: Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism Lithgow Mayor Maree Statham Joan Kent, A Moment in Time Wendy Hawkes, Lithgow City Council Blue Mountains Crossing Bicentenary Committee
11. Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services Sponsor: Oberon Council GOLD: Leura Garage
12. Deluxe Accommodation Sponsor: Oberon Plateau Tourism Association GOLD: Mountain Heritage Hotel & Spa Retreat
13. Festivals & Events Sponsor: Blue Mountains Economic Enterprise GOLD: Sculpture at Scenic World
14. Adventure Tourism Sponsor: Lithgow City Council GOLD: Life’s An Adventure
15. Tourist & Caravan Parks Sponsor: Lithgow City Council GOLD: Jenolan Caravan Park
16. Major Tourist Attractions Sponsor: Blue Mountains City Council GOLD: Blue Mountains National Park
17. Tourist Attractions Sponsor: Blue Mountains City Council GOLD: Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mt Tomah
18. Business Tourism Sponsor: Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School GOLD: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains
19. Local Government Award for Tourism Sponsor: Tourism Industry, a division of the NSW Business Chamber GOLD: Oberon Council
20. Young Employee of the Year Sponsor: Scenic World WINNER: Roxanne Campbell, Lilianfels Resort & Spa
21. Employee of the Year Sponsor: Scenic World WINNER: Daryl Walker, Lilianfels Resort & Spa
22. Luxury Accommodation Sponsor: Jenolan Caves GOLD: Mountain Whispers
23. Tourism Business of the Year finalists, Blue Mountains Business Awards Sponsor: Biznet, the Blue Mountains Regional Business Chamber Blue Mountains FINALISTS: International Hotel Management School, Blue Mountains National Park, Life’s An Adventure, Mountain Whispers, Scenic World

Blue Mountains, Lithgow, Oberon: right royal tourist destination

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge experience the spectacular World Heritage Area view from Echo Point Lookout with official escorts (l) Scenic World joint managing director Anthea Hammon and (r) Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism CEO Randall Walker. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

 

By Ellen Hill – Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region’s long-held position as a top tourist destination was given a Royal nod of approval by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge recently.

The Royal couple took in the fresh air and magnificent outlook at Echo Point overlooking the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley on April 17.

Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism (BMLOT) chairman Daniel Myles said: “BMLOT was delighted to have been instrumental in the Royal couple’s visit to the upper Blue Mountains.

“The Duke and Duchess were absolutely and genuinely wowed by our grand backyard. Their visit has been a priceless opportunity for us to showcase our natural treasure to the entire world through the world’s media during Their Royal Highness’ visit.’’

Tourism Australia managing director John O’Sullivan said images of the Royal couple at locations such as the Three Sisters were “tourism gold’’ which led to incalculable international exposure and inspired holidaymakers from around the world to book a trip there.

However, the presence of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at a globally recognised Blue Mountains tourist attraction gave the regional tourism industry a much needed boost after challenging times, Mr Myles said.

“The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region is most definitely back on track and open for business – the Duke and Duchess posing for photos in front of a large tract of our unscathed, glorious, sweeping World Heritage Area provided the world with all the proof it needed,’’ Mr Myles said.

With its majestic vistas, sheer canyons, vast wilderness and temperate climate, the region has become a haven for nature-based recreational pursuits such as bushwalking, abseiling and canyoning, Segways, fishing and garden tours at cool climate properties such as Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah, and Mayfield Garden at Oberon.

A canyon to Juggler Canyon is one nature-based experience visitors can take part in with expert guides such as Blue Mountains Adventure Company. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

“The calibre of nature-based expert guides is world-class here with the best outdoor adventure business in Australia, Life’s An Adventure which took out the gold award in that category at the 2013 Australian Tourism Awards, and the high profile Blue Mountains Adventure Company, Tread Lightly Eco Tours and High n Wild,’’ Mr Myles said.

The region boasts a host of accommodation options to suit every budget from grand hotels like the Carrington Hotel and Mountain Heritage Hotel at Katoomba and regal luxury such as Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa near Lithgow, Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa at Echo Point and the Fairmont Resort MGallery at Leura to myriad B&Bs and guesthouses and affordable motels and caravan parks.

The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon food and wine focus has switched to more regional produce which compliment sustainable principals led by the Greater Blue Mountains Food and Wine Development Advisory Group and SlowFood Blue Mountains movement.

The result is food fit for a king sourced from local and regional suppliers, prepared by a growing stable of renowned chefs such as Lee Kwiez from Darley’s, Lilianfels Resorts’ hatted restaurant, Oliver Roberts (Vesta Restaurant, Blackheath), Damian Brabender (Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort & Spa) and Michael Bell (Fairmont Resort).

Chefs such as Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort head chef Damien Brabender are raising the profile of food and wine in the region.

The region, which already attracts up to 4 million visitors a year according to National Parks & Wildlife Service figures and is home to the most visited natural attraction in regional Australia (Echo Point Lookout) and the steepest passenger train in the world at Scenic World, is also experiencing a multi-million dollar revival through an array of public and private tourism-related projects.

The re-opening of the Hydro Majestic is one of the most highly anticipated tourism projects in the region.

New products and tourism experiences include the highly anticipated revamp of the Hydro Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath by The Escarpment Group which also owns Lilianfels Blue Mountains and Echoes Boutique Hotel at Katoomba. The Escarpment Group will also soon open the 4.5 star Parklands Country Gardens & Lodges at a 28 acre property at Blackheath.

The Fairmont Resort MGallery will soon boast a new day spa, building on its extensive $10 million revamp.

The Fairmont Resort MGallery continues to build on its $10 million refurbishment with a new spa with 10 treatment rooms, relaxation rooms, individual room terraces with views over the golfing fairways, resort gym, foot spa and manicure area all inspired by the seasons and surrounding environment.

The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region is also known for its year-round calendar of festivals and events which attract people to the destination who otherwise would not have come.

The BMLOT-supported region-wide Roaring 20s Festival and all that Jazz in February and the Festival of Walking in October have begun to gain traction among travellers who now anticipate and plan for them.

The inaugural Autumn Sustainable Food Festival featuring TomahROMA at Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah, and Leura Village Association’s Leura Harvest Festival earlier this month completed the seasonal festival calendar while Yulefest in winter is the region’s most established and famous festival within hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, restaurants and cafes.

Sculpture at Scenic World is one of the festivals and events adding another reason for tourists to visit the region. Photo: A Shot Above Photography

Ironfest at Lithgow in April this year attracted 15,000 people, the Winter Magic Festival at Katoomba on June 21 traditionally lures more than 40,000 people celebrating the winter solstice, Carols in the Caves at Jenolan Caves in December is a traditional Christmas success and Sculpture at Scenic World (continues until May 18) is fast gaining notice in the art world.

Go to http://www.visitbluemountains.com.au for more information about activities, festivals and events, accommodation and dining options in the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region.

 

Blue Mountains: Immerse yourself in World Heritage Area wonder

Autumn is an ideal season to explore the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill – Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Autumnal hues and mild weather make autumn an ideal season to explore the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region and venture onto bush tracks in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.

A great all-weather activity at any time of year is a visit to Blue Mountains Cultural Centre www.bluemountainsculturalcentre.com.au at Katoomba. On display during April is the audiovisual exhibition Instance by Honi Ryan and Desire, a collection of works exploring how our desires create who we are.

Experience Life on Mars at Ironfest, Lithgow. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Experience humanity through the ages and even other worlds at the “festival with a metal edge’’, Ironfest at Lithgow (April 25-27, ironfest.net). The annual festival brings together artists, designers/makers, blacksmiths, performers of all kinds, musicians, historical re-enactors and more.

A national treasure, Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum at Faulconbridge www.normanlindsay.com.au, will hold its annual Pudding Day children’s literature festival and celebration of The Magic Pudding (April 14). Join John Marsden, Cartoon Dave, Emily Rodda and those sneaky puddin’ thieves for a day of family fun.

The beautiful Everglades Historic & Gardens at Leura is a visual treat in autumn. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Another beautiful National Trust property, Everglades Historic House & Gardens at Leura www.everglades.org.au, will host a fabulous display of wedding dresses through the ages staged by The North Shore Cavalcade of History and Fashion (April 12).

Mushroom in the state pine forests around Oberon is a great activity for the whole family. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Explore the great outdoors with mushrooming in the state forests around Oberon, soak up the ambience of Sculpture at Scenic World and be sure to pay a visit to the many spectacular gardens throughout the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region resplendent in autumnal hues including those at Mt Wilson, Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au, Leuralla at Leura www.leurallatoyandrailwaymuseum.com.au and Mayfield Garden at Oberon www.mayfieldgarden.com.au.

And celebrate local and regional produce and sustainable living through the Autumn Sustainable Food Festival, with the TomahROMA http://www.mounttomahbotanicgarden.com.au/event.asp?pid=7&id=169 launch event at Blue Mountains Botanic Garden on May 3, the Leura Harvest Festival http://leuravillage.com.au/fairsandfestivals/ (an incentive of Leura Village Association) finale event, on May 10, and other satellite events throughout the region in between.

Worship in the majestic Catchedral Cave at Jenolan Caves. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Commemorate Easter at a free non-denominational service in the Underground Group in the majestic setting of the Cathedral Chamber of the Lucas Cave at Jenolan Caves (April 20) www.jenolancaves.org.au.

Whatever you decide to see and do, be sure to fully immerse yourself in the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region and treat yourself to a short stay at any number of accommodation providers to suit all budgets.

Easy to get to. Impossible to forget.

Oberon: The Idea of North

The Idea of North will play Mayfield Shearing Shed on May 8.

By Oberon Plateau Tourism Association

The sensational sounds of ARIA award-winning a cappella group The Idea Of North will reverberate through Mayfield Shearing Shed at Oberon on March 8.

Surrounded by the O’Connell Art Show in a beautiful country setting, the show will be hosted by O’Connell Public School.

The Idea Of North is a quartet of musicians serious about their music without taking themselves too seriously.

Their instrumentation includes soprano, alto, tenor and bass vocals with a little bit of vocal percussion thrown in.

The group has a beautifully distinct sound and style and cross many musical genres: jazz, folk, gospel, pop, classical, comedy.

With nine albums in its catalogue, a significant local and international fan base, and increasingly regular local and international work, it would seem that despite the difficulty, people are getting better at describing The Idea of North to their friends.

You may have heard and enjoyed the CDs (some of them award-winning), but the best stuff actually happens live and can’t be recorded onto plastic, no matter how shiny it is.

The Idea Of North will perform at Mayfield Shearing Shed, 845 O’Connell Rd, Oberon, on Saturday, March 8. Doors open at 6.30pm for 7.30pm show. Tickets: $50 include show and supper served during interval. A bus will operate between Bathurst, O’Connell and Mayfield ($10).

Details and bookings: O’Connell Public School on (02) 6337 5725, oconnell.idea@gmail.com or www.stickytickets.com.au/14611.