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ForbesThe township of Forbes is situated along the Lachlan River in the heart of the luscious Lachlan Valley on the Newell Highway. We are fortunate to have beautiful Lake Forbes as the gateway to our town; your family will love its cycle and walkways, BBQ facilities and amentities. Forbes has long been known for its historic buildings; still in use today, and you may recognize many which were featured in the movie "The Dish". History will come alive as you explore our town and learn of its gold rush history, including the deeds of bushrangers Ben Hall and the Gardiner Gang who were well known for their daring robberies of stage coaches and banks. Arts, crafts, wineries, nature reserves and a relaxed country atmosphere all combine to make our shire an interesting and refreshing place to explore. We look forward to welcoming your family soon! Attractions in ForbesForbes Visitor Information Centre Railway Station, Union Street
Accommodation Accommodation is of a high standard with all requirements catered for including motel, hotel, caravan parks and bed & breakfasts. The shire caters for everything up to and including a five star resort at Barrawang West Station.
Albion Hotel - Bushranger Hall of Fame Museum Lachlan Street
Arts & Crafts Forbes Visitor Information Centre Handicraft Centre & Art Gallery Lachlan Street, Forbes Banderra Estate Vineyard Sandhills Road Bedgerebong 32 kilometres west of Forbes, this sleepy village comes alive with two prominent events each year. The Bedgerebong Picnic Races are now held on the third Saturday of February and the Annual Show on the third Saturday of August. Both are a must.
Centenary of Federation Heritage Trail The Centenary of Federation Heritage Trail recognizes some of the town's remarkable people and places. Pick up a copy of the Heritage Trail and learn more about the town's history from the Forbes Visitor Information Centre, located at the Old Railway Station in Union Street.
Central West Livestock Exchange 10kms north of Forbes – off the Newell Highway at Daroobalgie
Dining Forbes offers an array of dining options to suit every family’s tastes and budget. Enjoy a quick and tasty meal at McDonald’s Family Restaurant, enjoy a meal from one of our clubs, cafes or restaurants or relax at one of our historic pubs with offerings ranging from ‘counter meals’ to a la carte dining.
Forbes General Cemetery A visit to the cemetery gives you an insight into Forbes' past. Among the graves you will find the bushranger Ben Hall, Ned Kelly's sister Kate Foster, and French author Paul Wenz. The headstones tell the stories of pioneers born in other lands, people of vision and resourcefulness.
Forbes & District Historical Museum Phone: (02) 6851 6600 McFeeters Motor Museum *COMING SOON Corner of Newell Highway & Oxford Street Shopping The business district has an impressive "boutique shopping precinct" incorporating many fine lifestyle, homeware and apparel shops accommodating the needs of both women and men of all ages. Each year various promotions entice visitors to journey to Forbes for a great shopping experience.
SportWater skiing Forbes Aquatic Centre (enquiries welcome at Vince & Jenni's BP), Bundaburrah Creek, Wirrinya Aquatic Centre (seasonal). Kayaking and canoeing are permitted at these locations.
Fishing Throw in a line from the banks of the Lachlan River or try your luck in Lake Forbes, a natural lagoon. Fishing licenses are required. Best spots include Fitzgerald’s Bridge, Jemalong Weir, Bundaburrah Creek, Aquatic Centre, Lake Forbes. Forbes Olympic Pool Corner of Lawler and Johnson Street
Sporting Clubs Forbes caters for a large number of sports as well as less active recreational pursuits. Sporting fields and complexes cater for a large number of sports including:
Sites of InterestEscort Rock Here, in 1862, the Gardiner Gang held up Ford & Co's escort coach which was on its way from the Forbes goldfields to Bathurst. It was Australia's biggest goldfield heist. To get to Escort Rock drive along the Orange Road and look for the picnic facilities about 3kms east of Eugowra.
Gum Swamp and Bird Hide Featured in the Australian Geographic Magazine, this native bird and wildlife refuge is an enchanting world. View the many species of birds and native fauna from the bird hide which is nestled on the edge of the swamp. The hide is always open and best viewing is at sunrise and sunset. Access is via a sign-posted gravel road off the Newell Highway, just 4 km south of Forbes.
Lake Forbes The Lake or 'lagoon' as it was known is a restful place for picnickers, weary travelers and fishermen. Grassed banks, BBQ and picnic facilities, abundant wildlife and large shade trees make it a tranquil place in which to relax. Meander around it on the walking/cycle track. A modern playground and a fountain are located within the picturesque setting. Toilets are found at four picnic spots – Apex Park, nearby Grinsted Oval, in Lions Park on the southern side of Oxley Bridge, and at Rotaract Park in Bandon Street.
Lake Cowal This famous inland waterway is the largest freshwater lake in New South Wales. Bring your binoculars and your camera, as the lake is home and breeding ground to an abundance of birdlife. Access is via the Newell Highway 60 km south-west of Forbes. After leaving the highway it is common to see emus strutting through the paddocks. Barrick Gold operates a gold mine from the western side of Lake Cowal.
Bush WalkingFor those who appreciate our natural heritage, reserves along the Lachlan River include: Cotton's Weir Located off River Road (4kms south from P.O), the weir recreation area has easy access and is close to town. Jemalong Weir This shaded parkland by the Lachlan River deserves a place on your itinerary. You can enjoy a picnic, fishing, and a walk in the riverside bushland or just watch the water cascade over the weir. Less than 24 km from Forbes along the South Condobolin Road, this quiet spot has BBQ, picnic facilities and toilets. Discover a rich variety of native wildlife and birdlife.
State ForestsWander through the solitary timbered lands of Back Yamma State Forest, 15km east of the Parkes Road, or Cumbijowa State Forest, 18 km along the Cowra Road. Explore the forests or maybe take those special photographs. If you sit quietly at sunrise and sunset you may glimpse kangaroos or other native wildlife. Nearby National ParksConimbla National Park Phone: (02) 6851 4429 (Forbes Office of the National Parks and Wildlife Service)
Goobang National Park Phone: (02) 6851 4429 (Forbes Office of the National Parks and Wildlife Service)
Nangar National Park Phone: (02) 6851 4429 (Forbes Office of the National Parks and Wildlife Service)
Weddin Mountains National Park Heavily timbered, and with a small number of walking tracks, this is the place where Ben Hall’s cave lies concealed. Legend has it that must of the gold stolen by Frank Gardiner and his gang at the Escort Rock robbery is hidden along the road to Grenfell. Take advantage of the picnic facilities at the end of Holy Camp Road. The Forbes CommunityForbes Youth and Community Centre Open to the general public during business hours, regular coordinated activities outside of business hours. Coordinated activities include vacation care, discos, art workshops, competitions (table tennis and pool table), youth forums, basic living skills programs, and computer courses. General FacilitiesToilet & Parents Room Facilities Forbes Railway Arts & Tourist Centre Forbes Handicraft Centre Community Health Centre |
