Bathurst Region Tourism

Sunset Dream Coaster - School Holiday workshop Ages 7+
2026-04-16 10:00 - 11:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Bathurst Neighbourhood Centre, 96RussellSt, Bathurst, 2795, Australia
Join Bee Sting Arts for a fun and creative Sunset Dream Coaster Workshop these school holidays.
Children aged 7 years and over will learn simple painting techniques to create their own beautiful sunset landscapes on ceramic coasters. Guided step-by-step, students will explore colour blending and brush effects to bring their sunset designs to life.
Each child receives all materials included, and will take home three finished ceramic coasters.
What’s included:
• 3 ceramic coasters to paint
• 3 sunset design options to choose from
• Artist-quality acrylic paints and glazing
• 2 artist brushes to use during the workshop
• Paint palette and all art materials
• Step-by-step guidance from Bee Sting Arts
This workshop is suitable for beginners and creative kids who love painting and exploring colour.
Creative Kids vouchers welcome ($50).
Students will leave with three unique coasters and new painting skills.

APRA AMCOS Presents FREE 2-day songwriting workshop Supported by BMEC Local Stages
2026-04-16 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-17 10:00 - 16:00 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Are you aged 16-21 and want to develop your music career?
Then this 2-day songwriting and production workshop is for you!
Featuring Industry Mentors Hylander, Asti Holz, and Audius, you will work with them over two days to write and record a song from scratch in a real-world co-writing session. This workshop will connect you with industry mentors and other local creatives. You will build new skills and find out more about pathways into the music industry.
Workshop details:
10am to 4pm – Thursday 16 April and Friday 17 April
Lunch provided.
To apply for 1 of 16 places in your region, please click on the link below to be taken to an APRA form and answer the questions required. Successful applicants will be notified separately by APRA through email.
https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=bk2QQFg11UiP95Nl7S3T5x1IjBeZEJxMgQZFtNDOMA9UNEtYU1A0T0NTRDQwWjQwTlJCMjhWRFBYRyQlQCN0PWcu

School Holidays Workshop // Shape, Colour, Pattern, Science!
2026-04-16 10:30 - 12:00 | Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, 70 -78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
School Holidays Workshop // Shape, Colour, Pattern, Science!

Thursday 16th April 2025, 10:30am-12:00pm

Ages: 6-17

Get creative in this hands-on workshop exploring shape, colour, pattern and science! Together with visual artist and designer Liz Bryan, we will explore the shapes and patterns that are repeated in nature: from DNA to Space! Participants will create their own geometric sculpture from cardboard, wood, and acrylic paint inspired by Liz Bryan’s Foyer Gallery exhibition Pattern Recognition.

This workshop will include a short tour of Pattern Recognition by Liz Bryan.

$10 members, $15 non-members, no experience required, bookings essential

About the Artist

Liz Bryan: Pattern Recognition

Liz Bryan is a visual artist and designer working across drawing, painting, textiles, sculpture and digital media. Her practice is shaped by an ongoing interest in esoteric knowledge, mythologies and ritual, and engages with themes of womanhood, place, and the hidden or overlooked histories of feminine experience. Moving fluidly between art and craft, Liz’s work also reflects on the intersections of science, mysticism and material knowledge.

For Pattern Recognition at BRAG, Liz presents a body of work that explores the microcosmic world and the underlying geometry inherent in biological structures. Informed by sacred geometry and esoteric traditions outlined in Plato’s Timaeus, the exhibition draws on the symbolism of the five Platonic solids—earth, water, air, fire and ether—as metaphors for both physical and metaphysical systems. The relationship between microcosm and macrocosm, particularly as seen in DNA structures and natural patterning, underpins the work.

Through this work Liz explores the esoteric potential of shape, line, colour and form. Historic textile motifs, including ogee forms and repeating half-brick patterns, further inform the visual language of the exhibition. Through sculptures and paintings, Pattern Recognition reveals pattern as a connective force—linking matter, meaning and the unseen structures that shape our world.

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

Banner Image: Liz Bryan, ‘Elemental Transmissions: Water’, 2025, found and repurposed wood, acrylic paint, gold and silver gilding. Photo: Maja Baska. Courtesy the artist.

Our Journey's Connect - Creative Workshop
2026-04-17 10:30 - 12:30 | Bathurst Library, 70 -78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Our Journeys Connect – Workshop
Next date: Saturday, 14 March 2026 | 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
You’re Invited to Help Create a Living Map of Belonging.
Bathurst Library invites community members of all ages and backgrounds to take part in a new participatory exhibition exploring the themes of home, belonging and journeys and being in Bathurst here and now. From mid March 2026, our floor-to-ceiling windows will become a shared canvas — visible both inside and out — filled with community reflections displayed on cards.
To get started, join Fiona Howle in this creative session for all ages where we pose the question “What is home to you?”, and find ways to express the answer on postcard sized art papers to find their place on the road alongside others.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Free participation. All ages. All backgrounds.

Creedence Clearwater Collective
2026-04-18 19:30 - 22:00 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
We invite you to join us for a night celebrating the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty, as we present the music of one of the world’s most iconic bands – from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered, to the songs they wrote for others
All the hits that defined a generation, and have become the soundtrack for many more – all in one night, live, on stage
Creedence Clearwater Collective brings to the stage a band that captures the unique CCR sound
You do not want to hear through the grapevine that you missed out on this howling good time
Join us, a real-life travelling band

BMEC ON-SCREEN John Cleese Packs It In
2026-04-19 13:00 - 14:30 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
1 85-year-old Man, 5 Countries, 16 Cities, 23 shows, 6 weeks.

Will he make it home … or is this the end of the road?

One of the most recognisable figures in British comedy, John Cleese’s career spans six decades – from his early days with the Cambridge Footlights to co-founding Monty Python, co-creating Fawlty Towers, and writing and starring in the Oscar-nominated “A Fish Called Wanda”. His unique brand of black humour has made him a global icon and intergalactic treasure.

At the age of eighty five, John Cleese sets off on what might be his final European tour – five countries, sixteen cities, twenty-three shows, and retaining just two original body parts. “John Cleese Packs It In” is a wry, behind-the-scenes portrait of a comedy legend on the road, battling various ailments, chaotic travel, and his own stubborn refusal to stop.

Spanning six weeks on the road, the film captures Cleese unfiltered and on the move – riffing on life, fame, and the absurdity of getting old in front of thousands of fans.

As he reflects on a stage career that began in 1963, the question lingers: is this the end of the road?

With unique and intimate access and showing unexpected tenderness, this is a documentary about legacy, laughter, and the dignity of bowing out… however reluctantly.

Ross Noble – Cranium of Curiosities
2026-04-23 20:00 - 22:00 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Roll up, roll up! Or use a more conventional form of transport to get to the show. It’s entirely your choice. Unless you accidentally become trapped in a barrel*.
Should that happen, then just find an incline and start rolling to see the one and only Ross Noble!
He is the Wizard of Waffle, The Rambler Royale, The Noodlers’ Noodler, and he’s back live on stage to tour a tornado of tangents. What the show will be about is anybody’s guess, but that’s all part of the fun when you look inside his Cranium of Curiosities.
*We strongly advise trying not to get trapped in a barrel before or during the performance. Despite the expression “barrel of laughs,” it may impede your enjoyment of the show and potentially anger a cooper**.
**barrel maker. We are fairly certain the mascara mishap music maker Alice Cooper would be fine with it.
“Thrilling to watch… weepingly funny” – Daily Mail
“No one does off-the-wall noodling better” – Evening Standard (4 Stars)
www.alist.com.au
www.rossnoble.com
Restricted 15+, no babes in arms permitted

Bathurst Panorama Chorus - Family & Friend Preview
2026-04-26 14:30 - 16:00 | Cathedral School Hall, cnr William & Keppel St, Bathurst
Join Bathurst Panorama Chorus as they preview their performance for their upcoming national Sweet Adelines competition and other favourite repertoire. Also including a delicious afternoon tea. Tickets at the door (cash or card). Tickets – $10 / $5 school students. Doors open 2.15pm
Venue: Cathedral School Hall, cnr William & Keppel St, Bathurst

Tea and Talk - Planning Ahead
2026-04-28 14:00 - 16:00 | Bathurst Library, 70 -78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Join Bathurst Library for a cup of tea and talk with Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre to learn how Wills, Power of Attorney, Enduring Guardianship , and Advanced Directives can help you plan ahead.
All your questions and more will be covered in this informative session!

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL. Limited seating. Phone 6333 6281
Bathurst Library – 78 Keppel Street, Bathurst

Author Talk - Rosalie Ham
2026-04-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Bathurst Library, 70 -78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Join Rosalie for an irreverent look at the darkly funny experience of getting older, as she speaks about her new book, Look After Your Feet.
Bookings: 6333 6281
Peppered with practical advice about all manner of things
– cheese and wine for dinner is welcome and acceptable –
Look After Your Feet is a brilliantly funny, painfully honest and insightful celebration of the wisdom that seems to accelerate as body parts deteriorate, and life* falls into place.
* Often just a little bit too late.
Rosalie burst onto the literary scene in 2000 with her novel The Dressmaker. After years of entertaining us with weird and wonderful older women characters adored by her readers, Rosalie now turns her trademark wit and shrewd observations to life itself.

Great Southern Nights
2026-05-01 08:00 - 2026-05-17 23:30 | KeyStone 1889, 99 Keppel St, Bathurst, 2795
The Central West is set to come alive for Great Southern Nights 2026 from 1 to 17 May, with a stellar line-up of Australian artists performing across the region’s charming rural towns and vibrant hubs.

The opening weekend sees iconic pop purveyors Regurgitator head to Bathurst, taking over the historic and atmospheric Keystone 1889. Bringing their unmistakable energy and a massive back catalogue of hits like “Polyester Girl,” this performance is set to be a cornerstone of the region’s program. It is the perfect opportunity for visitors to explore Bathurst’s rich heritage, boutique stays and thriving food scene while catching one of Australia’s most enduring alternative acts.

The musical journey continues across the Central West with a diverse array of performances:

Dubbo’s Live Fest: On Saturday 2 May, the spectacular Lazy River Estate in Dubbo hosts a powerhouse all-ages event. The line-up features Australian music royalty including Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins, The Cruel Sea, The Cat Empire, Kasey Chambers, and Jess Hitchcock.

Orange: The opening weekend also features the much-adored Pete Murray, bringing his “Better Days” vibes to the rolling vineyards and sophisticated charm of Orange.

Whether you are heading to Bathurst for a dose of 90s nostalgia or making the trip to Dubbo for a riverside festival, Great Southern Nights 2026 is your invitation to soak up the best of the Central West’s music, eats, and drinks.

Bathurst Motoring Heritage - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-02 14:30 | National Motor Racing Museum, 400 Panorama Avenue, Mount Panorama, 2795, Australia
This is an audio-visual presentation by car and bike enthusiast Geoff Fry. This presentation embraces the history of motoring in general and motor sport around the Bathurst region.

Cost: Free – bookings essential (if participants wish to visit the museum prior orafter the talk, normal entry fee will apply)

BOOKINGS: Bathurst Visitor Information Centre 1800 68 1000 or online at bathurstregion.com.au/autumn-colours

Godspell
2026-05-02 20:00 - 22:30 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Before Wicked, Stephen Schwartz burst onto the music theatre scene with Godspell, introducing his ability to discover new meaning in established narratives. Equal parts playful and profound, Godspell is a theatrical celebration that reminds us what truly matters, and in 2026 BMMS is staging a special charity production of the timeless hit.
Only one performance at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, with all profits going towards the Central Tablelands and Blue Mountains Community Legal Centre.
In a world of increasing polarisation, social inequality and uncertainty, Godspell, with its themes of compassion and generosity, is a humorous and lively exploration of the value of community and connection. With rich harmonies, a live 6-piece band, and hits like Day by Day & Turn Back, O Man, the show’s eclectic mix of pop, rock, gospel, and vaudeville makes for an infectious soundtrack.

Murder Horse
2026-05-07 19:30 - 22:00 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Have a punt, if you dare…

It’s Sweeney Todd meets Succession in this dark, campy musical romp, that rips the lid off our national obsession with gambling.
Saddle up for a gloriously unhinged ride as we pull the tail of our rich elites, and splash around in our swampiest vice, all set to a galloping musical score.
Murder Horse follows feckless rich boy Des, who, in a desperate bid to save the family gaming empire, stumbles upon a bizarre racehorse – one that actually starts winning him races. Des revels in his fortune…until he discovers the truth: this horse is killing anyone who stands in its way.
Featuring familiar faces from the highly popular musical, FAST CARS and Schapelle Schapelle, this gothic-comedy-horror musical, written by Tim Hansen, Jack Dodds, and Gareth Thomson, and directed by Kate Smith. Photography by Drew Fairley.

Dates & Times:
Thursday 7 May 7:00PM
Friday 8 May 7:00PM
Saturday 9 May 1:00PM
Saturday 9 May 7:00PM

Society Public Art Ramble and Picnic in Peace Park
2026-05-09 10:15 | Proclamation Cairn, Corner Stanley Street and William Street, Bathurst
Enjoy a leisurely stroll with Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Volunteer Guides and artists to visit and discover stories behind some of the public artworks in Peace Park and alongside the Riverwalk of Wambuul/Macquarie River.

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Society, also known as Friends of the Art Gallery, invites the community to join them on a walk next to our river to hear about the history of the artworks and their creators.

Meet us at the Proclamation Cairn on the corner of Stanley and William Streets to hear about the history behind the Proclamation and Heritage Wall. Inspect the bicentenary walls designed by school children as you walk through the Peace Garden and artwork gifted in friendship to Bathurst by the Indian government, visit Stephen Hart’s Conversation sculpture, before a riverside stroll to view the murals of Wambuul by Calum Hotham, William ‘Bubba’ Kennedy, and Paul Riot, and Saving our Species by Wiradyuri artist Jessica Leffley.

Bring a self-catering picnic, own chairs, umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen to socialise and chat with our creative community after the walk.

If you, or your family were involved in the bicentenary artworks, you are most welcome to join us and share YOUR story.

This is a free event, but donations to the Gallery are most welcome.Time: 10.15am for 10.30am start. The walk is anticipated to take one and a half hours. Picnic follows.Meet at: Proclamation Cairn, corner of Stanley Street and William StreetsRegistration Required: BRAGS website www.bragsinc.com.au | email brags.inc@gmail.com | 0418 228 766

Bathurst War Memorial Carillon Tour - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-09 11:15 - 12:45 | Bathurst War Memorial Carillon, 3 Church Street, Bathurst, 2795
his is a rare opportunity to learn the fascinating history of the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon. Explore the three floors, meet one of our local carillonists and enjoy the playing of the instrument from within the clavier room.

Special requirements: tour participants must wear flat shoes, be able to climb 61 steps in the tower (20 to the landing, 21 to first floor, 20 to playing level) and have nothing in their hands to hold onto the handrails. Tour duration: 1 – 1.5 hours.

Cost: $20 per person – bookings essential

Book your tickets NOW

Download the full program here www.bathurstregion.com.au/autumn-colours/

Cemetery Wander - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-10 10:00 - 12:00
4 April 1876 was an important day in Bathurst’s story: the day when the railway arrivedin town. This event changed Bathurst in many ways, including the provision of manyemployment opportunities. Join members of Bathurst Family History Group for a wanderaround a section of Bathurst General Cemetery to learn some of the railway stories behindthe headstones. Enjoy a delicious morning tea supplied by the Group. Bring a hat, waterand sunscreen. Please wear sturdy walking shoes.

Meet at Bathurst Cemetery, enter via Dean Street entrance.

$15 per person – bookings essential

BOOKINGS: Bathurst Visitor Information Centre 1800 68 1000 or online at bathurstregion.com.au/autumn-colours

Mother's Day Lunch
2026-05-10 12:00 - 15:00 | The Rockley Pub, 2 Budden Street, Rockley, NSW, 2795
This Mother’s Day, give Mum the afternoon she really wants great food, relaxed vibes, and quality time.

Join us at The Rockley Pub on Sunday, 10th May from 12pm for a deliciously long lunch designed to spoil the most important woman in your life.

We’re putting on a 3-course shared-style feast packed with flavour, good times, and a special gift just for mum.

Mother’s Day Lunch $75 per person

Includes the full menu + a gift for Mum

Australian Haydn Ensemble – Beethoven's Fourth
2026-05-10 15:00 - 17:00 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
How does that one go again? Neglected even amongst Beethoven’s even-numbered “B-side” symphonies, No. 4 in B flat can be slow to spring to mind, but once that effervescent first subject banishes the mock-gloomy introduction, the delights of this work come flooding back. “Masterclass” is applicable, but it’s far too much fun for that. The Watts arrangement for flute and string sextet lends a filigree of clarity to a warm and witty work that will leave audiences beaming.
Pre-interval also sees the AHE in miniature symphonic mode. In 2025, listeners loved the Linz, so roll on Mozart’s prequel, The Haffner Symphony, K. 385, also presented in Cimador’s bite-sized arrangement. Written in a whirlwind of deadlines, weddings and house-moving, Mozart famously forgot he’d composed it at all – only to discover it was rather good. Generations of listeners agree: it brims over with opera buffa bravura and rollicking rhythm.
Boccherini may be short on symphonies to pare down, but his predilection for extra bottom end with his string quintets always gives them an ambition beyond the chamber. The one in A minor from 1778’s Op. 25 has the deep lustre and nobility of a substantial work. As you’ll discover, there’s no shortage of his unmistakable character: from galloping caballos to a closing rondo in Turkish style.
Lean and lovely fare and a fourth to be reckoned with.
BMEC’s presentation of The Australian Haydn Ensemble is proudly sponsored by Ben Gelin OAM Solicitor and Notary Public.
Event Notes: Genre Classical Music
Age: All ages

Opening // BRAG Exhibitions May-August 2026
2026-05-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, 70-78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, 2795
Join Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (BRAG) in celebrating the opening of three new exhibitions on Friday 15 May 2026, 6-8pm!
Main Gallery – Elizabeth Day: The Fragility of Goodness: The Prison on the Landscape and Other Stories
Foyer Gallery – Heather Dunn: Found
OUT THERE Digital Platforms | Forecourt Projector & TAFE Screens – Made By You
Friday 15 May, 6-8pm
Welcome to Country with Smoking Ceremony by Wiradyuri Traditional Owners Central West Aboriginal Corporation
Auslan Interpretation for Opening Speeches
Catering by Bathurst Regional Art Gallery Society
Beverages by Renzaglia Wines, Grass Parrot Vineyard, and Cosmo Brewing
FREE, all welcome, RSVP essential
Click here for more information on the exhibitions
Banner image: Elizabeth Day, The Flow of Form: There’s a Reason Beyond a Reason. Beyond That There’s a Reason (1797 Parramatta Gaol), 2023, unravelled op-shop garments, muslin, 2600 x 650 x 5 cm irregular. Installation view at Carriageworks in The National 4: Australian Art Now. Photograph: Zan Wimberley.

Artist & Curator Talk // Elizabeth Day with Ann Finegan
2026-05-16 11:00 - 12:00 | Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, 70-78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, 2795
Hear from artist Elizabeth Day and Curator Ann Finegan on major survey exhibition The Fragility of Goodness: The Prison on the Landscape and Other Stories.
Saturday 16 May 2026, 11am-12pm
FREE, all welcome, RSVP essential

Elizabeth Day’s survey exhibition at BRAG examines the legacy of Empire and the colonisation of Australia and its First Nations peoples. The exhibition focuses on the lasting impact of colonial prison systems and how these institutions reshaped both landscape and society.

The project connects closely to Bathurst’s history as part of a network of colonial prison towns established west of the Blue Mountains. Day has explored these themes in earlier works: in 2023, she presented There’s a Reason Beyond a Reason, 1797 Parramatta Gaol at The National 4 at Carriageworks, Redfern. This large-scale textile installation was made from unravelled second-hand garments and referenced early colonial prison architecture. Through the slow process of unravelling fabric, the work suggested the possibility of undoing the prison’s imprint on the landscape.

The Fragility of Goodness: The Prison on the Landscape and Other Stories continues this investigation. The exhibition considers how the histories of colonial prisons continue to shape contemporary Australia. Day draws connections between historical penal sites including Parramatta and Tasmania, engaging with ideas of layered colonial, geographical and social histories. Her practice is informed by both historical research and personal experience within institutional systems.

A key work in the exhibition, The Law Is Not Always Just, forms part of a new series of grass-grown texts mapping prisons across the Central West. This floor installation sits among several significant works including There’s a Reason Beyond a Reason, Notes on the Castle, the sculptural recreation of Bathurst Gaol’s Lion Gate, Invisible Words Invisible Worlds, and the collaborative community project MYCO LOGIC.

Together, this exhibition invites reflection on systems of justice, power and repair.

Elizabeth Day in Carriageworks’ Clothing Store Studios, where she was artist-in-residence from 2021-2023. Photo: Jacquie Manning.

May Tea and Talks @ T.Arts Gallery
2026-05-16 14:30 - 16:00 | T.Arts Gallery, 75 Keppel Street, Bathurst, NSW, 2795, Australia
T.Arts is delighted to have Angela Kaden as our Artist of the Month in May. Her work is bright and vibrant. Angela will be the guest presenter at our May Tea and Talks from 2.30 on May 16 at the Gallery, 75 Keppel St Bathurst. Come along and join us for a fun, interesting talk and some yummy food. The cost is $25. Bookings are essential.
Here is her story:
Hello my name is Ange and I am a proud Quandamooka woman from Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) in Queensland.
I grew up living off the land fishing and hunting. We mostly lived on seafood.
I grew up being taught that our art is away to teach lessons and the old ways of our people. My aunty Kath Walker (Oodgeroo Noonuccal) was a famous poet and political activist for our people. And that’s where my paintings started when I was just little girl painting on paperbark off the trees from our island home. My paintings are what I feel at the time they all come from inside. I make my paintings affordable so everyone can enjoy them.

Big Band Blast Bandemonium
2026-05-17 11:00 - 13:30 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
The Ultimate Weekend of Big Band Music Returns!
Get ready for another unforgettable weekend as the Big Band Blast Festival swings back into Bathurst!
Experience the energy, talent, and rhythm of Australia’s finest young musicians in a celebration of big band
music like no other.

Bandemonium – Student Showcase
The Big Band Blast Festival concludes with an electrifying showcase featuring 15 talented high school big bands from across the region and beyond. With performances happening simultaneously across 4 stages, you’ll have the freedom to explore and enjoy the incredible variety of sounds throughout the day. Move from stage to stage at your own pace and immerse yourself in the energy, skill, and passion of Australia’s next generation of jazz musicians. It’s a dynamic, festival-style experience where every performance brings something special—don’t miss this chance to catch all the action!

About Big Band Blast
Now in its 12th year, Big Band Blast continues to provide outstanding educational and performance opportunities for high school big bands from across Australia. Proudly supported by The Mitchell Conservatorium of Music and Festivals Australia, this event celebrates creativity, collaboration, and community spirit—right here in Bathurst.

Don’t Miss Out!
Join the fun, feel the rhythm, and be part of the excitement that makes Big Band Blast a highlight of the Bathurst cultural calendar. Book your tickets now and secure your seat for an incredible weekend of big band brilliance!

Bathurst Writers’ and Readers’ Festival 2026
2026-05-19 00:00 - 23:59 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
The Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival returns this May, proudly bringing storytelling, big ideas, and unforgettable conversations.
Running from Tuesday 19 to Sunday 24 May, the much-loved Festival will feature six days of author talks, live-streamed sessions from the Sydney Writers’ Festival (SWF), and exciting local events at Bathurst Library and the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (BMEC).
Live streamed big-name authors include David Szalay, Amritav Gosh, A.C Grayling, Yann Martel, Trent Dalton, Stephanie Alezander and Mick Herron.
In person appearances by Bob Brown, Jack Toohey and Michael Brissenden, along with local writers and session facilitated by other local writers and readers.

Carillon Bathurst Business Awards Electrified By Kelso Electric
2026-05-20 08:00 - 2026-07-13 17:00 | Bathurst Goldfields – Event & Function Centre, 428 Conrod Straight, Bathurst, NSW, 2795, Australia
The 2026 Bathurst Business Awards, proudly presented by the Bathurst Business Chamber, Electrified by Kelso Electric celebrate the innovation, resilience and achievements of businesses and individuals across the Bathurst region. Bringing together the local business community, the awards recognise excellence in leadership, customer service, innovation, community contribution and business growth, while showcasing the outstanding talent and entrepreneurial spirit that continues to drive the region forward.
Entry OPEN 20th May, 2026
Entry closing 13th July, 2026
Judging Commences Monday 20th July
Judging Concludes Monday 3rd August
Gala night at Bathurst Goldfields September 5th, 2026

Lose To Win
2026-05-20 19:30 - 20:40 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
An extraordinary journey from South Sudan to the stage.
“In this country, you think it’s your right to have three meals a day. Me, where I came from? I think it’s a miracle.”
From South Sudan to Egypt to Australia, this is the extraordinary journey of Mandela Mathia. Fleeing his war-torn home as a child, Mandela spent many years journeying, searching, and eventually finding his way to our stage. This is a joyful, poignant solo show, straight from the man who lived it.
A celebration of the South Sudanese community, of resilience, and the power of imagination, Lose To Win is an astonishing modern Australian story.”
★★★★ Sydney Arts Guide – “It’s that big smile again. He can say something difficult with a grin and we smile back.”
Sydney Morning Herald – “Not a soul is born without a backstory, but few are as gripping as Mandela Mathia’s.”
Theatre Reds – “Mandela Mathia has an extraordinary stage presence – warm and generous spirited.”

Low Carbon Landscapes: Community Information @ Rockley Pub
2026-05-21 17:30 - 20:00 | The Rockley Pub, 2 Budden Street, Rockley, NSW, 2795
Are you interested in understanding the carbon potential of your property and comparing returns from Environmental Plantings with your current farm enterprise? Little River Landcare is hosting an information night for the Restoration Economics Project at the Rockley Pub starting from 5:30pm.

We can provide you with a personalised report of your properties Carbon Potential on the night along with dinner.

RSVP for dinner (included) to 0401 376 209 or email project.coordinator@littleriverlandcare.com.au

SPOT based on the book by Eric Hill
2026-05-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Eric Hill’s beloved puppy comes to life on stage in a show that’s fun for the whole family, with puppetry, songs, and puzzles for children aged 18 months and up.
Spot is one of the most loved dogs in the world, and he’s coming to Bathurst!
Spot and his friends are off on a new adventure to visit Spot’s Dad on the farm and meet the farm animals. But when they arrive, all the animals are lost! Can Spot and his friends find them all? They might need a little help from their new friends in the audience…
Presented by arrangement with Salspot Limited, part of Penguin Random House.

SPOT based on the book by Eric Hill
2026-05-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, 105 William Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Eric Hill’s beloved puppy comes to life on stage in a show that’s fun for the whole family, with puppetry, songs, and puzzles for children aged 18 months and up.
Spot is one of the most loved dogs in the world, and he’s coming to Bathurst!
Spot and his friends are off on a new adventure to visit Spot’s Dad on the farm and meet the farm animals. But when they arrive, all the animals are lost! Can Spot and his friends find them all? They might need a little help from their new friends in the audience…
Presented by arrangement with Salspot Limited, part of Penguin Random House.
Director: Liesel Badorrek
Adaptor: Tim McGarry
Set & Costume Designer: James Browne
Lighting Designer: Ben Brockman
Music: Fons Merkies
Sound Designer / Music Production: Ross Johnston
Creative Consultant on behalf of Salspot Limited: Thomas Merrington
SCHOOL BOOKINGS ARE NOW AVAILABLE.
