THE third annual Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail is back bigger than ever this weekend (May 18-19) with 100 artisans coming together to pay homage to the trades and traditions that have helped shape the region.
Just a three-hour drive from Sydney, it is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to rediscover the craftsmanship that helped build Bathurst and the nation.
Artisans will be showcasing rare trades and crafts including blacksmithing, whip cracking, glass artistry, embroidery, carpentry, cigar box guitar making, violin making and more, across four of Bathurst's most historic venues.
The whole family can get hands-on at one of the many demonstrations or workshops from whip cracking, upholstery, pressing and printing, and wooden bucket making. There will also be local music, food, entertainment and even wine appreciation sessions hosted by award-winning local winemaker, Mark Renzaglia of Renzaglia Wines.
Ticket prices start at $12 per person for the weekend, while children under 16 are free. There is also a free shuttle bus between venues. Tickets can be purchased here.
Five Things Not to Miss
1. Rediscover craftsmanship: step back in time to find out about the trades of 200 years ago from carpentry, lacemaking, musical instrument building, blacksmithing and more.
2. Get hands on at a workshop: have you ever wanted to learn how to upholster your own furniture, or try your hand at vintage printmaking techniques? There is a selection of great workshops available all weekend.
3. Sip on a local wine: at one of the wine appreciation sessions held by local award-winning winemaker, Mark Renzaglia.
4. Snack on a yummy local treat: try a yummy scone from the Country Women's Association, a hearty locally made soup, or grab a coffee from Bathurst locals, Long Point Coffee.
5. Explore Bathurst: Australia's oldest inland settlement is also home to the Australian Fossil & Mineral Museum, Chifley Home and Abercrombie House, or simply take stroll through the historic Town Square while listening to the Bathurst audio tour narrated by Grant Denyer.
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