Bathurst will celebrate more than 200 years of rich history at the Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail next month.
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Some of the rare and lost trades and crafts that helped shape the region will be showcased over the weekend of May 12-13.
Blacksmithing, saddlery, dry stone walling, whip cracking and making, glass artistry, lace making, tapestry, embroidery, carpentry and joinery, cigar box guitar making and violin making are among many unique talents to be demonstrated by local and guest artisans.
The Bathurst Trades Trail will also bring together the biggest display of Cobb & Co coaches in NSW and Australia’s oldest wedding dress.
Mayor Graeme Hanger said the Heritage Trades Trail offered a cultural and educational experience.
“Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail showcases the destination’s heritage along with the old trades and crafts which literally built Bathurst and which we are helping keep alive today,” Cr Hanger said.
“Some of Bathurst’s most historic venues will host more than 60 artisans practising their rare trades, including a focus on restoration and conservation.”
Among the Trades Trail attractions are:
- Chifley Home: Built in the 1880s, it was the home of former prime minister Ben Chifley and his wife Elizabeth from 1914 until Mr Chifley’s death in 1951. The Victorian home will present a history of food preparation and production from the perspective of women from the Depression and war periods.
- Tremain’s Mill: This iconic industrial building is a surviving example of a mid 19th century flour mill. It will be home to restoration and trades demonstrations, including a Heritage Conservation Roadshow led by the University of Melbourne’s Grimwade Centre.
- Agricultural Research Station: Formerly the Bathurst Experiment Farm of the late 1800s, this hidden gem holds 11 National Trust listed buildings and will showcase a diverse line up of agricultural and farm trades. See demonstrations of blacksmithing, stone walling and whip cracking.
- Uniting Church Hall: Built in 1837, it will showcase soft trades and feature demonstrations of gem polishing, basket making workshops, embroidery, bead and wire craft and lace making.
- CWA Hall: Will feature artisans and demonstrations such as knitting, crocheting, felting and candle wicking.
The Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail tickets cost $10 per person for two days. Children under 16 are free.
