Fast facts
- A vibrant rural city, which was the birthplace of poets Banjo Paterson and Kenneth Slessor
- Located at the base of an extinct volcano, west of the Great Dividing Range
- 280 km west of Sydney, population 39,000
Why go there
Orange and its fertile surrounds produce delicious local produce including beef, lamb, fruits and wine, much of which can be purchased direct from the producers.
Orange is also rich in local history, has a flourishing cultural scene, boasts beautiful parks and gardens and is surrounded by natural attractions.
History
Prior to European settlement, the Wiradjuri language group lived in the Orange area. It became known as Blackmans Swamp in the early 1800s, but was renamed Orange and proclaimed a village in 1846. In 1851 business began to boom with the discovery of Australia's first "payable" gold at nearby Ophir. Feritile volcanic soil secured a flourishing agricultural future, initially wheat and barley, and more recently fruit orchards, including olives, apples, grapes and berries.
Things to do
- Explore the City Heritage Trail, a self-guided walk, which takes in more than 40 places of historical interest. The old Cobb & Co sites are especially interesting.
- Wander around the mines at Ophir – some are still operational and tours are available. Try your luck panning for gold at Ophir Reserve.
- Take a hike on one of the Mount Canobolas walking tracks. Reach the top of this ancient volcano, the highest point between the Blue Mountains and Perth.
Events
- F.O.O.D Week (Food of Orange District) held in April showcases local wine, food, arts and culture.
- Australian National Field Days, Australia’s oldest annual agricultural exhibition, is held in October.
Don’t miss
- A trip into the eerie limestone world of Tunnel Cave at Borenore Karst Conservation Reserve – take a torch.
- The outstanding Mary Turner Collection of significant Australian paintings at Orange Regional Gallery.
- Remembering the great bush poet Banjo Paterson at the monument to him that stands near his birthplace.
- A walk through the Sensory Garden and the Biblical Garden at Orange Botanical Gardens
- A vignerons tour around the 20-plus cellar doors open to the public.
