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.

Business as usual: one year on for Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon tourism

The unblemished view from Echo Point Lookout at Katoomba. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

One year after the devastating October 2013 bushfires, it is business as usual for one of the most recognisable places on earth – the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region.

Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism (BMLOT) chairman Daniel Myles said: “The October 2013 bushfires were a terrible part of our community’s history and we very much feel for those who lost their homes. After all, they are our family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.

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

“The tourism and hospitality industry is one of the major economic drivers of this region so its success is crucial to countless families, whether someone in the household has a couple of casual shifts at a cafe, a full-time job as a housekeeper at a hotel, is an outdoor guide or owns their own grand hotel.’’

The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area attracts 4 million visitors and $550 million a year, generates more than 5100 equivalent full-time jobs and is recognised globally as a hub for outdoor recreation and magnificent vistas. Add to that a growing regional food and wine focus, an endless round of festivals and events and its place as the first tourist destination in Australia.

“None of that changed with the October 2013 bushfires –the main tourist experience remained intact,’’ Mr Myles said. “In fact, there is no risk to visitors to the region most of the time, especially at popular sites and attractions.’’

Nevertheless, the tourism and hospitality industry had identified several areas in which it could improve its protection of and communication to visitors to the region.

“The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area is a place of great beauty. However, it is an untamed wilderness (notice the word `wild’) of many moods which demands respect and awe.’’

In the past 12 months, BMLOT had spent much time and effort learning how other tourism organisations and destinations had responded to similar incidents.

The official regional tourism organisation had explored ways in which it could build on the existing policies, protocols and strategies successfully implemented during the October 2013 bushfires.

BMLOT had begun to introduce bushfire and general bush safety messaging into its everyday communications.

“Last year, our identified emergency evacuation point for tourists who needed a safe place to go was the Waldorf Leura Gardens B&B Resort, an excellent option given its size, facilities, proximity to a residential area and distance from bushland,’’ Mr Myles said. “Emergency evacuation points which do not burden facilities intended for residents will be identified during each such bushfire incident from now on.’’

BMLOT will work with tourism and hospitality business owners on evacuation plans and other internal industry safety measures.

The organisation had also built on its already solid working relationships with emergency services, National Parks & Wildlife Service, Blue Mountains City Council, Sydney Trains and others.

Mr Myles encouraged people to see for themselves the unblemished tourist experience in Australia’s most accessible wilderness.

“If people want to help the region on its road to recovery, they can treat themselves to a short break in the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region, knowing that spending money on a hotel room, buying a meal and going on an experience helps support the thousands in this community who work in the tourism industry – and have an amazing experience at the same time.’’

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

The Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region including Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mt Tomah is open for business as usual. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Whiteley’s connection west of the Divide on show

(l-r) Wendy Whiteley and Blue Mountains Cultural Centre director Paul Brinkman. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Blue Mountains Cultural Centre at Katoomba has finally opened the doors to the long-awaited Brett Whiteley: West of the Divide exhibition.

Curated by his former wife and “goddess muse’’ Wendy Whiteley and the Art Gallery of NSW, the exhibition focuses on the enduring connection that Whiteley had with the region west of the Great Dividing Range and features 38 works including painting, sculpture and drawings that span three decades of the artist’s career.

Speaking at the cultural centre on the day of the exhibition opening, Wendy Whitely said Brett’s connection with the Blue Mountains and Central West encompassing Oberon, Bathurst, Orange, Lucknow, Milthorpe, Carcoar, Sofala, Hill End and Marulan stretched back to his days at boarding school in Bathurst “which he hated – he felt abandoned and punished’’.

“But they did provide him and [fellow artist] Vernon Treweeke with an art teacher – they were the only two kids in the entire school who were in the least bit interested in the arts.’’

Marulan Bird With Rocks (c 1980). Brett Whiteley

After leaving school, Whiteley got a job at Lintas advertising agency in Sydney. He and colleagues Michael Johnson and Max Cullen went on regular weekends away to the Central West including Oberon.

“They’d take off on Friday… and they’d always come in this direction,’’ Wendy said. “They’d come up to the mountains and then go over to Hill End and Sofala, drink a lot of beer, fall out of trees, do some drawing, paint and have a rollicking good boys weekend, you know. I never came on those weekends – girls weren’t allowed (all for the best, I’m sure – it would have driven me mad).’’

The couple left Australia and lived in Europe for 10 years, then New York and Fiji, finally returning to Australia.

The Whiteleys, who then had their daughter Arkie, lived in Carcoar in an converted schoolhouse owned by John Laws, and Oberon for several years.

“I love the Oberon area,’’ Wendy said. “We had fires every night. One time we went to the house and in the kitchen there was a big snake on the inside of the screen door. One of the dogs got down a rabbit hole and we had to dig it out. It was a lovely life. We had friends come up and stay with us.

The Day Asia Got Born (1970). Brett Whiteley

“Brett worked a lot there. He loved it. He’d go into the landscape in the day with the dogs. He never really worked out in the field but he’d go out for inspiration and do some sketches and then come back into the studio and work, wherever that was at the time.

“In Australia, his major landscape paintings come from this area, west of the Divide.’’

Whiteley fell in love with the “spectacularly beautiful’’ landscape around Oberon, his favourite features of which can be seen in his work: “those craggy rocks’’, the Fish River, the willows which grew along the riverbanks at the time.

“He loved that kind of sculptural thing with the rocks coming out of the ground. It’s a staggering landscape. It’s very different to the kind of landscape with the rolling, buxom hills that are manicured and very gentle around Bathurst. And he shows that difference between the areas in his work.’’

His penchant for sticking mementos such as sticks and stones to his artwork began during the Carcoar/Oberon time, Wendy said.

West of the Divide exhibition works have been selected from Whiteley’s studio and the Art Gallery of NSW.

Wendy Whiteley was impressed with the new Blue Mountains Cultural Centre space. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

“There’s some very important works here,’’ Wendy said. “It’s taken a while to organise this show but now it’s up I’m so happy with it, I think it just looks stunning.’’

She was also impressed with the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre gallery: “Love it. I just love the elegance of it in this space – it’s beautiful.

“I’ve never been here before so I was a little bit nervous – I always am when I’m doing a show but it’s been beautifully selected and curated.’’

Blue Mountains Cultural Centre director Paul Brinkman said: “This exhibition acknowledges the important role the Central West and greater Blue Mountains region played in the artistic development of one of Australia’s most recognised and celebrated artists and in doing so further interprets the rich artistic narrative of the region.’’

Brett Whiteley: West of the Divide will be exhibited at Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, 30 Parke St, Katoomba, until Sunday, November 30. Cost: $5 adults, $3 concession, free cultural centre members and under-16. There will also be a range of public programs throughout the exhibition. Bookings and details: info@bluemountainsculturalcentre.com, or (02) 4780 5410 or www.bluemountainsculturalcentre.com.au.

Sofala (1958). Brett Whiteley

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 Festival of Walking takes first step

NPWS Discovery Ranger Kathy Butler takes children and their parents on some nature play activities to re-connect with the earth. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism.

By Ellen Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Under a clear spring sky with kookaburras and cockatoos vying for attention, the annual Festival of Walking was launched at Euroka Glenbrook, Blue Mountains National Park, on Saturday, September 20.

NPWS Discovery Ranger Yamindirra Newton demonstrates how to prepare natural powders for ceremonial paints as part of the Aboriginal Cultural hands-on toolkit display. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Visitors and locals enjoyed a community barbecue; learned about bush safety from NSW Police Rescue Senior Constable Chris Jayne, Aboriginal culture and the NPWS Bush Trackers program; and embarked on a “nature play’’ children’s bushwalk during which kids had the opportunity to smell gum leaves, draw, create, play games, explore the bushland and share the joy of the simple things life has to offer.

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

Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism (BMLOT) chairman Daniel Myles acknowledged Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill, Blue Mountains State MP Roza Sage and Macquarie Federal MP Louise Markus who attended and paid special tribute to Katoomba resident Marie Wood for instigating the “no brainer’’ festival several years ago.

During her Welcome to Country, Gundungurra elder Aunty Sharyn Halls encouraged everyone to explore the landscape on bushwalks and engage with National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) Discovery rangers and local Aboriginal people to learn about one of the oldest continuous cultures on earth.

“We have been walking this land for thousands of years. Where we are today is an Aboriginal pathway.’’

NPWS Blue Mountains regional manager Alan Henderson said: “There are few greater pleasures than walking, and having a festival to celebrate it is a wonderful thing. We are blessed here in the Blue Mountains with some of the finest walking tracks in the world.’’

He, Mr Myles and Snr Const Jayne urged all walkers to practice safe walking habits by planning ahead, wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, carrying plenty of water and food, registering their walk at Springwood or Katoomba police station or the NPWS visitor centre at Blackheath where they can borrow for free a personal locator beacon and staying on the track.

Mayor Mark Greenhill encouraged people to explore Aboriginal culture and the grand backyard of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area as a family.

Follow your feet this Festival of Walking. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

“Follow your feet this Festival of Walking. Let them take you where they will, whether it’s from Jellybean Pool to Jenolan or Katoomba to Kanangra or the waratahs of Mount Tomah to the Woodford Academy, follow your feet throughout this beautiful city and this beautiful area.’’

The Festival of Walking showcases the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area to nature lovers of all ages, budgets and fitness levels and will continue throughout the school holidays until October 19.

Presented by the official regional tourism organisation and supported by the NPWS, local councils and Destination NSW, the Festival of Walking includes self-guided walks, adventure walks with expert guides, Aboriginal experiences and non-nature walking activities such as history rambles and a beer walk.

Go to www.festivalofwalking.com.au for more information about the Festival of Walking and www.visitbluemountains.com.au for dining, accommodation and other activity options.

 

NPWS Discovery Rangers Kathy Butler and Yamindirra Newton take children and their parents on some nature play activities to re-connect with the earth. 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.

 

Blue Mountains cliffhanger visit for V8 drivers

Six V8 Supercars drivers were in good hands with High n Wild during their abseiling adventure. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

They may be comfortable driving at 300km/h around one of the world’s most famous race tracks but the six V8 Supercar drivers who visited the Blue Mountains last Tuesday [September 9] could not tame our Blue Mountains.

Exactly one month before this year’s Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000, Bathurst great Red Bull Racing’s Craig Lowndes and current champion Pepsi Max Crew FPR’s Mark Winterbottom joined young Mount Panorama hopefuls Scott McLaughlin, David Reynolds, Tim Slade and Nick Percat at the gateway to Bathurst.

The six challenged themselves to stand on the edge of a mountain and literally let go. Some fared better than others. The sheer drop was, almost, as daunting as Mountain Straight, Skyline or Conrod.

However, they were in safe hands under the guidance of 25-year abseiling veteran Darren Trew from Katoomba outdoor adventure business High n Wild and his expert guides.

High n Wild dedicated six guides as well as Mr Trew to the event, which went for the entire morning.

Five-time Bathurst 1000 champion and eight time Sandown winner Lowndes said while he wasn’t terrified, he was not as comfortable abseiling down a cliff as he was behind the wheel of a race car.

It was thrills of a different kind for the six V8 Supercars drivers at Narrowneck, Katoomba. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

“It’s a funny feeling at first – you wonder whether the rope’s strong enough to hold your weight but then you just have to trust.’’

Lowndes said he was a fan of the Blue Mountains, which is a great stop over or base for Bathurst race goers. He and his family had stayed at Blackheath Glen Tourist Park for several days last year on their way to Mt Panorama.

Reigning Bathurst champion Winterbottom said: “Most of the guys have that fear of heights or something, where we drive 300 kilometres an hour people are surprised that we have fears, looking over the edge it is a bit daunting. You have no control so a little bit different.

“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.’’

After their abseiling experience, the six drivers and their crew lunched at, where else, Leura Garage. Owner James Howarth opened the converted garage, now a thriving funky cafe/restaurant, especially for the group.

The visit was facilitated by Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism (BMLOT), the official regional tourism organisation.

BMLOT chairman Daniel Myles said: “We may not have a V8 Supercars racing track in the Blue Mountains but our thrilling outdoor experiences absolutely match the adrenalin hit sought after by the likes of these speedsters.

“This region is also an ideal pitstop for petrol heads travelling to and from the races at Bathurst, so break your trip with a meal and a cuppa, stretch your legs along a bush track and visit one of our outstanding attractions businesses.

“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.

The boys were right at home at Leura Garage for lunch after their abseiling adventure. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

 

 

West of the Divide through Brett Whiteley’s eyes

Sofala (1958). Brett Whiteley

By Blue Mountains Cultural Centre

Blue Mountains Cultural Centre proudly presents the major exhibition Brett Whiteley: West of the Divide.

Curated by Wendy Whiteley and the Art Gallery of NSW, this exhibition focuses on the enduring connection that Whiteley had with the region west of the Great Dividing Range and features 35 works including painting, sculpture and drawings that span three decades of the artist’s career.

Art Gallery of NSW currator of Australian art emeritus curator Barry Pearce said: “Although Brett Whiteley became master of a spectrum of subjects, from portraits and interiors to abstractions and figure compositions in which he excelled as a draftsman of the nude with compelling vitality, it is perhaps his landscapes which best encapsulate an ability to transport us through the spaces of his imagination.”

The Day Asia Got Born (1970). Brett Whiteley

From his formative years as a student at Scots College, Bathurst, throughout his life, Brett Whiteley had a lasting connection with the Central Tablelands country of NSW.

Many of the works featured are rarely seen and provide a wonderful insight into the artistic development of Whiteley from his early career in the late 1950s through to the end of his life in the 1990s.

Brett Whiteley’s affinity with the landscape west of Sydney encompassing Oberon in the Blue Mountains to the Central Tablelands through Bathurst, Orange, Lucknow, Milthorpe, Carcoar, Sofala, Hill End and south to Marulan, is little documented in the many texts that have been written on his oeuvre, yet the artworks produced of and inspired by this region are some of the most magical.

Blue Mountains Cultural Centre director Paul Brinkman said: “This exhibition acknowledges the important role the Central West and greater Blue Mountainsregion played in the artistic development of one of Australia’s most recognised and celebrated artists and in doing so further interprets the rich artistic narrative of the region.”

Marulan Bird With Rocks (c 1980). Brett Whiteley

Throughout the exhibition, an exciting range of public programs will be held at the cultural centre:

Friday, September 26, at 6pm: exhibition opening

Saturday, October 4, at 2pm: In Conversation: Blackheath Portraits +2. Join photographer Graham McCarter and Curator Rilka Oakley for an insight into the exhibition and McCarter’s photographs of Brett Whiteley.

Friday, October 24, at 6pm: Artist talk with Peter Kingston, who will discuss his experimental film project featuring Brett Whiteley.

Bookings for all programs essential: info@bluemountainsculturalcentre.com or (02) 4780 5410.

Brett Whiteley: West of the Divide opens at Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, 30 Parke St, Katoomba, on Friday 26 September and runs until Sunday 30 November. Cost: $5 adults, $3 concession, free cultural centre members and under-16. Details: http://Brett Whiteley: West of the Divide opens at Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, 30 Parke St, Katoomba, on Friday 26 September and runs until Sunday 30 November. Cost: $5 adults, $3 concession, free cultural centre members and under-16. Details: www.bluemountainsculturalcentre.com.au.

Summer by the River of Plums. Brett Whiteley

 

Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge: Officially amazing – again

The 2014 Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge broke its own record. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill – Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

The 2014 Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge has officially beaten its own Guinness World Record.

The community dancing event was held in Leura Mall thanks to Leura Village Association on February 2 as part of the Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism annual Roaring 20s Festival and all that Jazz!.

Participants travelled from as far afield as the NSW Far North Coast and Queensland dressed in 1920s gear eager to high kick the previous record of 276 participants set at the 2013 attempt.

The latest attempt included 319 costumed dancers. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

After months of anticipation and submitting a copious amount of written, photographic and film evidence of the attempt, confirmation of the “Largest Charleston dance’’ in history was received from Guinness Book of World Records in England by the official regional tourism organisation on August 12.

The official letter reads: “We are delighted to confirm that you have successfully achieved a new Guinness World Records title for `Largest Charleston dance’. We would like to congratulate you on your record-breaking achievement. You are OFFICIALLY AMAZING.’’

Roaring 20s Festival director Sandy Luxford thanked all participants during the past three challenge attempts: “Not only have people continued to take part, they have brought friends with them, determined to set higher records each year.

“One of the requirements of the Charleston Challenge is that participants must be in costume to qualify and everyone does, which creates a wonderful festive atmosphere of fun and community. That’s what the Blue Mountains has been renowned for years.’’

BMLOT chairman Daniel Myles said: “The Roaring 20s Festival is a marvellous showcase of the region and gives people yet another chance to kick their heels up and party – how very 1920s, how very tourism and hospitality.

Participants travelled to Leura Mall from around the state. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

“The great thing about the Charleston Challenge is that anybody and everybody can join in.’’

The Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge has traditionally launched the Roaring 20s Festival and all that Jazz, which will again be held at various venues throughout the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region throughout February 2015.

The 2015 Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge will be held on Saturday, February 7, when it is hoped the record will be smashed once more with 350 dancers.

“This is a great opportunity to plan ahead, book a bed at one of the many accommodation venues in the area and really let your hair down and relive the 1920s,’’ Mr Myles said.

“We’ve even got hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs, restaurants and cafes and retail shops from the era so the scene has already been set.’’

The Roaring 20s Festival and all that Jazz pays homage to the decade when the region cut loose in an endless round of hedonism – sumptuous architecture, costume balls and high teas, saucy clothing, outrageous (for the time) dancing and jazz music.

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

The 2015 Blue Mountains Charleston Challenge will be held on Saturday, February 7. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

 

Festival of Walking “no brainer’’ for Greater Blue Mountains

The Festival of Walking will be held from September 20 to October 19. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

By Ellen Hill – Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

A “no brainer’’ event which showcases the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area to nature lovers of all ages, budgets and fitness levels, the annual Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism (BMLOT) Festival of Walking will be held from September 20 to October 19.

Presented by the official regional tourism organisation and supported by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), local councils and Destination NSW, the dates of the festival this year have been shifted and extended to include the NSW school holidays.

As well as self-guided bushwalks, the Festival of Walking will include adventure walks with expert guides, Aboriginal experiences and non-nature walking activities.

There are more than 400 walking tracks throughout the Greater Blue Mountains. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

BMLOT chairman Daniel Myles said: “The Festival of Walking will be a fantastic family event and a great opportunity to holiday close to home.

“Experienced guides and well maintained tracks will provide a safe environment for locals and visitors to explore our magnificent World Heritage Area. Our wonderfully fresh air and expansive vistas right on Sydney’s doorstep will provide the rest.’’

The festival was inspired several years ago by Katoomba resident Marie Wood who read about the award-winning Isle of Wight walking festival and believed “something similar would be perfect for the Greater Blue Mountains … good for encouraging people to stay for a few days’’.

Mr Myles said: “Really, it’s a no brainer for this region.

“We’ve got a one million square hectare backyard packed with more than 400 walking tracks and lots of expert interpretive guides – we should be exploring it, learning about it and playing in it.’’

In fact, the Greater Blue Mountains is one of Australia’s 16 recognised National Landscapes and the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region is the richest destination for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts in the country.

Walkers can lace up their shoes and stroll through quaint townships and tree-lined residential streets to the breathtaking landscape of genuine rugged wilderness all in an afternoon.

The Festival of Walking showcases the magnificent Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism

Still remarkably pristine, the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area has long been a magnet for bushwalkers, from colonial walking parties around Jenolan Caves in cumbersome Edwardian and Victorian outfits and conservationist pioneer Myles Dunphy who tenaciously lobbied for designated national parks to modern day trekkers.

Staying for two or three days will mean visitors don’t have to choose just one walk and can also experience the many other wonderful attractions, dining and accommodation options available in the Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon region.

The Festival of Walking is a celebration of the beauty of nature, the health and wellbeing benefits of walking, acknowledgement of Aboriginal custodianship and culture, and homage to the history, heritage and conservation of this special region.

Beginning just four years ago, last year the festival attracted more than 2000 recognised participants.

The Festival of Walking will be officially launched at a community event at Glenbrook on Saturday, September 20. The free event will include family-friendly activities, Wanda the Wombat NPWS mascot, educational stalls and a community barbecue.

Go to www.festivalofwalking.com.au for more information about the Festival of Walking and www.visitbluemountains.com.au for dining, accommodation and other activity options.

The Festival of Walking will feature walks for everyone throughout the region. Photo: David Hill, Blue Mountains Lithgow & Oberon Tourism