Bathurst Region Tourism

Big Band Blast Bandemonium
2026-05-17 11:00 - 13:30 (Australia/Sydney) | 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 Miniature Railway
2026-05-17 10:30 - 14:30 | John Matthews Sporting Complex, Durham Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Pack a picnic lunch and take the kids down to the miniature railway to enjoy a few rides on working scale model trains, just across the road from the Adventure Playground. Covered shoes must be worn. Trains run the 3rd Sunday of the month, weather permitting.

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.

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.

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

Abercrombie House Mother's Day Heritage High Tea - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-10 14:30 | Abercrombie House, 311 Ophir Road, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
Spoil your Mother this Mother’s Day with this popular High Tea which includes scrumptioussavoury and sweet treats. A variety of leaf tea, plunger coffee and elegant live classicalCeltic harp music. Main rooms and gardens are open to explore. This is an outstandingafternoon of elegance and style, taking you back to an older and more refined age.

Adult $70; Concession $65; Child 14 yrs & under $55 – bookings essential

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

Cemetery Wander - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-10 10:00 - 12:00 | NSW
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

Fashioning the Past: Memories of California Fashions - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-09 14:00 | Old Weighbridge Office, 369 Stewart Street, 369 Stewart Street, Bathurst, NSW, 2795, Australia
A factory on the Blayney Road has been home to a variety of manufacturing businesses overthe decades, including the notable clothing company California Fashions. During this tour,historians from the Bathurst District Historical Society will help uncover the site’s rich history andshare insights and stories from former employees of the fashion manufacturer. Visitors will alsoenjoy a display of garments produced by California Fashions during the 1950s and 1960s,offering a nostalgic glimpse into the company’s contribution to Bathurst’s industrial heritage.

$10 per person – bookings essential

Recital: Bathurst War Memorial Carillon - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-09 13:00 | Bathurst War Memorial Carillon, 3 Church Street, Bathurst, 2795
The final official Autumn Colours Carillon recital, performed by a local Bathurst Carilloniston the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon. Please join us in beautiful Kings Parade at 1pmfor a free recital on our unique Singing Tower.

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

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/

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

Guided Tour of Perthville Convent Heritage Centre - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Perthville Convent Heritage Centre, Tenison Woods Avenue, Perthville, NSW, 2795, Australia
Enjoy a visit to Perthville Convent Heritage Centre, site of the first Convent of the Sisters of Saint Joseph in NSW. Begin with morning tea in the Sisters’ dining room, followed by a guided tour of the Centre. View the historic buildings and learn of the Sisters’ story. The beautiful surrounds, the peaceful chapel and the Sisters’ cemetery are included in the tour. The Ministry room also forms part of the tour. This includes information about the various works of the Sisters and samples of their exquisite handiwork. An app of Perthville Convent Heritage Centre is available to download to enhance the enjoyment of your visit.Interestingly, both Saint Mary MacKillop and Fr Julian Tenison Woods, who founded thisuniquely Australian religious congregation in Penola, South Australia in 1866, each visitedthis Perthville site.

$15 per person – bookings essential

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

History Talk: Machattie Park
2026-05-08 18:00 - 19:00 | Bathurst Library, 70 -78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, New South Wales, 2795, Australia
How does a gaol in the centre of town become the ‘beauty spot of the West?’ Join Bathurst local Jan Page to find out in this history talk about Machattie Park.
Bookings essential: Call 6333 6281.
Machattie Park in the heart of Bathurst is much-loved by locals and visitors alike who are drawn to its peaceful shade, beautiful features and gardens, and the spectacular annual begonia display. It is a place for gatherings and celebrations and a place of memories both personal and of prominent Bathurstians. The beautiful park stands on the site of Bathurst’s second gaol, and its story is a fascinating one of transformation.
Described as “the beauty spot of the West”, Machattie Park was at the heart of civic events and public entertainment with grand occasions, regular band concerts and fund-raising activities. Although there have been changes over the years as the plantings matured and successive gardeners adapted to the evolving garden and changing times, the Victorian design of the original vision remains.
Jan Page OAM is the author of Machattie Park Bathurst. A well-known local, Jan is also President of the Friends of Bathurst War Memorial Carillon and President of the Bathurst Family History Group.
This talk is part of the Australian Heritage Festival 2026 celebrating the theme ‘Change’.
Image: Courtesy Bathurst District Historical Society

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

Museums of History NSW Collections on Tour – Making Home : A Short History of Houses, Interiors and Gardens in NSW
2026-05-07 10:30 - 12:00 | Chifley Home Education Centre, 12 Busby Street, Bathurst, 2795
Drawing on Museums of History NSW’s rich collections, experts will deliver an illustratedpresentation of the history of houses, interiors and gardens in NSW, followed by a Q&A.There will also be an opportunity to view original collection material such as wallpaper, tradecatalogues, tiles, architectural pattern books and historical garden sources.

Adult $15; Concession $11; Chifley Home and Education Centre and Museums Bathurst members: free; MHNSW members: 20% discount – bookings essential

Public Choir
2026-05-05 19:00 - 20:30 | Little Alberts @ The Victoria Bathurst, 3 Keppel Street, Bathurst, NSW, 2795
Get Ready to Sing! Mitchell Conservatorium Pub Choir is Back!You asked, and we listened! We’ve been flooded with emails, comments, and letters about the return of our Pub Choir, and we’re thrilled to announce that the Mitchell Conservatorium Public Choir is officially making its long-awaited comeback!

A massive shout-out goes to our fantastic partners in “rhyme” at the Victoria Bathurst. Their support has been instrumental in bringing this initiative back to life and providing a brand-new home for our harmonious gatherings: Little Alberts, basically right across the road from the Con!The choir will run the first Tuesday of every month at 7pm.

No tickets are required for the event however we have placed a small cover charge of $5 on the door to cover staffing and material costs.

Sunday Sketch Sessions at BRAG
2026-05-03 10:00 - 14:00 | Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, 70-78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, 2795
Head to Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (BRAG) every Sunday for a FREE, self-guided sketch session in our current exhibitions!
– Materials and stool provided
– FREE, self-guided session
– No experience required
About the Exhibitions
We Are Studios: Acts of Inheritance
Acts of Inheritance presents new work from seventeen Disabled artists who explore identity as something lived, layered and continually remade. We come to know ourselves through small, everyday acts and performances – our own and those of others, families, cultures and communities as they leave their mark upon us. Some artists revisit family stories or inherited acts; others reflect on Disability, mental health, and shifting perceptions of self and how we perform it. Here, inheritance is not fixed or predetermined, but enacted through the choices we make, the stories we tell and the ways we show up for one another. Through these works, Acts of Inheritance invites us to imagine identity as something performed in ongoing dialogue between who we have been, who we are becoming and the worlds that shape us.
We Are Studios is a 100% Disability-led, artist-run initiative empowering Disabled Western Sydney artists to thrive.
Artists: Aili Brenton, Virginia Bucknell, Ria Cirera-Cruz, Taylah Devlin, Holly-lee Dickson, Georgina Evans, Nina Frankie, Leanne Larwood, Timothy W. Martin, Grazia Napoletano, Adrienne Proud, Rebecca Sciroli, Kiri Smith, Jane Thatcher, Miah Tito-Barratt, Jordan Valageorgiou, Eden Young.
Curated by We Are Studios Collective.
The project is supported by the New South Wales Government through Create NSW and by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.
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.

Royal Bathurst Show
2026-05-03 09:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-02 09:00 - 22:00, 2026-05-01 09:00 - 22:00 | Bathurst Showground, Lot 1 Kendall Avenue, Bathurst, NSW, 2795, Australia
The Royal Bathurst Show has long been regarded as the best west of Sydney and has boasted an average annual attendance in excess of 20,000 people. The Show is organised and run by the Bathurst Agricultural, Horticultural & Pastoral Association, a charitable community organisation who for 160 years have been promoting agricultural activities and all aspects of rural and country life in the Bathurst area.

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.

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

Walking Around the Historic Village of Rockley - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-05-02 13:00 - 16:30 | Stevens Park, opposite the Rockley Pub, Budden Street, Rockley
This guided tour commences with a short talk in Stevens Park, followed by a stroll around thevillage, including viewing the School of Arts Hall and two Edward Gell churches. The tourends at the Rockley Mill & Stables Museum for a cuppa and a selection of hot finger foodsand sweets. Here you have the opportunity to explore the Museum at leisure. Bring a hat,water and walking shoes. Bookings to be made by 5pm, Wednesday 29 April. A minimum of8 participants are required for the tour to proceed.

$15 per person – bookings essential

Exhibition Tours // Acts of Inheritance & Pattern Recognition
2026-05-02 11:00 - 12:00 | Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, 70-78 Keppel Street, Bathurst, 2795
Join Bathurst Regional Art Gallery for a FREE tour of our current exhibitions every Saturday at 11am!
About the Exhibitions
We Are Studios: Acts of Inheritance
Acts of Inheritance presents new work from seventeen Disabled artists who explore identity as something lived, layered and continually remade. We come to know ourselves through small, everyday acts and performances – our own and those of others, families, cultures and communities as they leave their mark upon us.
Some artists revisit family stories or inherited acts; others reflect on Disability, mental health, and shifting perceptions of self and how we perform it. Here, inheritance is not fixed or predetermined, but enacted through the choices we make, the stories we tell and the ways we show up for one another.
Through these works, Acts of Inheritance invites us to imagine identity as something performed in ongoing dialogue between who we have been, who we are becoming and the worlds that shape us.
We Are Studios is a 100% Disability-led, artist-run initiative empowering Disabled Western Sydney artists to thrive.
Artists: Aili Brenton, Virginia Bucknell, Ria Cirera-Cruz, Taylah Devlin, Holly-lee Dickson, Georgina Evans, Nina Frankie, Leanne Larwood, Timothy W. Martin, Grazia Napoletano, Adrienne Proud, Rebecca Sciroli, Kiri Smith, Jane Thatcher, Miah Tito-Barratt, Jordan Valageorgiou, Eden Young.
Curated by We Are Studios Collective.
The project is supported by the New South Wales Government through Create NSW and by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.
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.

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.

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.

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

The Life & Rhymes of Banjo Paterson - Autumn Colours Heritage Festival Event
2026-04-27 14:00 - 15:30 | Perthville Community Hall, 20 Rockley Street, Perthville, NSW
125th Anniversary of Banjo Paterson’s Bathurst presentation. On 26 and 27 April, 1901,Australia’s most famous poet, Banjo Paterson, presented lectures on the Boer War in theBathurst School of Arts. Well known poet Gregory North is re-enacting Banjo’s tour andwill present his show, The Life & Rhymes of Banjo Paterson. Greg is from the Blue Mountainsand spends four months each year in Winton, Queensland where Banjo wrote “WaltzingMatilda”. Light refreshments will be provided after the presentation.

Adult $25; Concession and Under 16 yrs $20 – bookings essential

Bookings https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/autumn-colours/

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
