THIS MONTH'S EVENTS

There are a variety of unique events held in the Warrumbungle Region throughout the year. From celebrating the region's love of astronomy to hosting concerts in some of Australia's most stunning scenery, you will find everything from 150 year old horse events to bush poetry celebrations. The Warrumbungle Region really has an event for everyone.

For more information on events in the Warrumbungle Region, download a copy of our Calendar of Events or monthly What's On Calendar.

If you would like to receive a copy of our monthly What’s On Calendar via email, please email cbnpromo@hwy.com.au and ask to be added to the mailing list. 

JUNE

NORTH WEST EQUESTRIAN EXPO 2011 Event Date - TBC
The North-West Equestrian Expo has evolved during the past 20 years into the largest pony club event in Australia, outside the Sydney Royal Easter Show. The competition attracts more than 500 high school students from across NSW to this four day event which challenges horse and riders alike.
For more information on things to see and do in the Warrumbungle Region, please call Coonabarabran Visitor Information Centre on 1800 242 881 or email coonavic@hwy.com.au for an information pack. read more ...

AUGUST

COONABARABRAN TOWNLIFE MARKETS Held on the 4th Sunday of every month, enjoying the Coonabarabran Townlife Markets is a great way to spend a Sunday morning. Sample freshly baked goodies and browse for bargains between 9am and 1pm in Dalgarno Street between the Clock Tower and Woolworths.
 The next Townlife Markets will be held Sunday, 22nd August, 2010. read more ...

SEPTEMBER

FLIX IN THE STIX If kicking back and watching a movie is more your style while visiting Coonabarabran, then see what’s playing at the Flix in the Stix Theatre. A movie is shown most Saturday nights at 7.30pm and Sunday afternoons at 2pm at the Dramatic Society Hall in John Street Coonabarabran (opposite the Acacia Motor Lodge).
Flix in the Stix is taking a short winter break and will be back with a new Spring listing soon.
  read more ... A PORTRAIT IN CLAY WORKSHOP 2010 Event Date - Wednesday, 8th September to Saturday, 11th September
Join famous sculpture artist, Kate French in the fantastic bush surrounds of Pilliga Pottery, for a workshop exploring methods of ceramic hand building and facial modelling. The two and four day courses cater for beginners AND experienced artists.
Lunch, morning/afternoon tea will be available at the Blue Wren Bush Café, while accommodation will be available on site. Book today to secure your place!!!! Download the brochure here for further information on the course.
 

Venue: Pilliga Pottery, Dandry Road, Coonabarabran
Time: to be confirmed on booking
Cost:  two day workshop $275, four day workshop $520 ***Please note cost of clay and firing is extra*** read more ... MENDOORAN TURF CLUB RACES
2010 Event Date - Saturday, 11th September
Rain, hail or shine, the annual Mendooran Turf Club Races has been held every year for the past 150 years. Join in the picnic race fun at the oldest horse race on the Castlereagh River!

 
  read more ... BARADINE CAMPDRAFT
2010 Event Date - Saturday, 18th September to Sunday, 19th September
Enjoy the spectacular skill of horse and rider as they compete in campdrafting events. A great family day out with competitions for several age groups.

 
  read more ... DISCOVERY PROGRAM IN THE WARRUMBUNGLES AND THE PILLIGA Autumn, Winter and Spring School Holidays
Discover nature's classroom on Discovery Ranger guided walks, talks and tours in the Warrumbungles and The Pilliga National Parks. Discovery Programs operate during autumn, winter and spring school holidays. Bookings are essential for activities so contact the Warrumbungle National Park Visitors Centre or The Pilliga Forest Discovery Centre.
The next Discovery Program will run in the Spring NSW School Holidays from Saturday, 24th September to Sunday, 9th October, 2010. read more ...

OCTOBER

BINNAWAY CAMPDRAFT
2010 Event Date - held in October, TBC
Held at the Binnaway Showground, this fun family event showcases skills of horse and rider. Categories include maiden, novice, ladies, junior, juvenile and open.

 
  read more ... SCIENCE IN THE PUB 2010 Event Date - Friday, 1st October

Two scientists debate hot topics in astronomy over a beer or two with plenty of audience participation. This year's topic is Climate Change - Can Astronomy shed any light?
Venue: Royal Hotel, John Street, Coonabarabran
Time: 6.30pm
Cost: $5 entry, dinner also available

 
  read more ... COOLAH SPRING GARDEN FESTIVAL Held bi-annually, (alternate years Dunedoo) the festival showcases some of the finest gardens within the Coolah District. The festival also includes displays and demonstrations, stalls, local arts and crafts and guest speakers.
The next Coolah Spring Garden Festival will be held in October 2011. read more ... OPEN DAY AT SIDING SPRING OBSERVATORY 2010 Event Date - Saturday, 2nd October
This is your once a year opportunity to take a closer look around Siding Spring Observatory when they open the doors to the general public for a free exclusive peak behind the scenes. You are invited to meet the astronomers and learn how they explore the Universe at Australia’s largest astronomy research facility. Make it a fun family day out and enjoy a BBQ and refreshments.
Venue: Siding Spring Observatory is located 27km west of Coonabarabran along John Renshaw Parkway.
Time: 10am - 4pm
Cost: free entry read more ... THE BOK LECTURE 2010 Event Date: Saturday, 2nd October
The annual presentation is a light hearted look at astronomy and is accessible to even the most non-science mind.
Venue: Coonabarabran Primary School, George Street
Time: 7pm
Cost: free read more ... MENDOORAN RODEO 2010 Event Date - Saturday, 9th October to Sunday, 10th October
The 8th annual Mendooran Rodeo is drawing near and organisers are working hard to create a true blue Australian country rodeo featuring a full program of events including barrel racing, steer wrestling, breakaway roping and bull riding.
The main rodeo competition is held on Saturday and it runs as part of the Australian Bushmen's Rodeo and Campdraft Association (ABCRA) national competition. Adding some spice to the competition will be stock from contractors Matt and Rachel Adams, "Ilfracombe", Mendooran, who have previously won the ABCRA Bucking Bull of the Year.
Following the rodeo on Saturday there will be a chance to have a drink with a bull rider or bust some moves on the dancefloor to the live band.
The Car and Ute Competition will be in full swing on Saturday. This year prizes will be awarded for best chick's Ute, best Holden, best Ford, most feral Ute and Ute with the most stickers. The main arena will feature the final Ute showdown where the covetable Champion Ute title will be awarded. 
Even the kids will be kept amused with the Junior Rodeo on Sunday, along with sideshow alley complete with jumping castle, comedy clowns ana a mechanical bull. read more ... TOUR DE COOLAH
2010 Event Date - Sunday, 17th October
This bike ride will see participants ride an 18 kilometres circuit through Coolah and surrounding areas, raising money for Juvenile Diabetes. The ride is designed for the entire family and other events include a walk around town and fun family events, including Twilight Cricket

 
  read more ... WARRUMBUNGLE ARTS & CRAFT EXHIBITION AND ARTS EXPO 2010 Event Date - Wednesday, 20th October to Sunday, 24th October
The Warrumbungle Arts and Craft Exhibition and Arts Expo is a wonderful reflection of the wealth of artistic talent in the region which is hotly contested especially amongst entries for the Warrumbungle Shire Council Acquistion Award.
The Warrumbunlge Arts Expo runs in conjunction with the Exhibition and is a showcase of the region's artists including demonstrations, workshops, stalls and much more!
Venue: Coonabarabran Town Hall, John Street
Time: 10am – 6pm daily
Cost: $5 per person, single four-day pass $10, family four-day pass $20
  read more ... BILLY CART DERBY 2010 Event Date: Saturday, 23rd October
Build your own billy cart and join in the race, or come along and cheer the participants to victory. Prizes for best designed billy cart.
Venue: Racing commences at the top of Cassilis Street.
Time: participants meet at 11am, racing from 12pm – 4pm
Cost: spectators free, $10 entry per billy cart read more ... COONA YABBY RACES 2010 Event Date: Sunday, 24th October
The annual yabby races raise much needed funds for the Coona Cancer Support Group. Don’t miss the “race that stops Coonabarabran” – the highly coveted Royal Hotel Cup. Auction and BBQ during racing.
Venue: Royal Hotel, John Street
Time: 12pm until late
Cost: free entry read more ... COONABARABRAN SPRING RACING CARNIVAL 2010 Event Date - Sunday, 24th October to Monday, 25th October
A fantasic weekend of racing festivities…
Welcome BBQ for Race Visitors -  Hosted by the Coonabarabran Jockey Club, this event kicks off the race carnival and is a great time to renew acquaintances in preparation for a fun weekend of racing activity.
Venue: Coonabarabran Racecourse, Nelson Street
Time: Sunday, 24th October at 3pm
Cost: hosted by the Jockey Club
Calcutta - Gather at the Bowlo and buy your horses for the Coonabarabran Cup, an evening program of entertainment and festivities.
Venue: Coonabarabran Bowling Club, Edwards Street
Time: Sunday, 24th October at 7pm
Cost: you choose your prices
The Coonabarabran Cup - A spring racing carnival for the whole family with Fashions in the Field, TAB operating, champagne marquees, punters clubs, ringside bookmakers, food stalls and bars operating and children’s entertainment.
Venue: Coonabarabran Racecourse, Nelson Street
Time: Monday, 25th October - first race at 1pm
Cost: adults $15, concession $10 read more ... DUNEDOO GARDEN TOUR Enjoy a day out touring Dunedoo’s most beautiful gardens. Other entertainment includes guest speakers, garden demonstrations, and musical entertainment. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are available and buses are welcome. The event is held bi-annually (alternate years Coolah).
The next Dunedoo Garden Tour will be held in October 2011. read more ...

NOVEMBER

VETERANS TOUCH FOOTY CARNIVAL
2010 Event Date - Saturday, 6th November to Sunday, 7th November
A great weekend of touch footy compettions and town entertainment, attracting teams from all over NSW. To enter, players must be over 30 years of age. After a great day of competitions, join the party atmosphere on Saturday night with all hotels and clubs providing live entertainment. Top division winners receive a t-shirt with a play off for a cash prize.

 
  read more ... CROOKED MOUNTAIN CONCERT 2010 Event Date - Saturday, 13th November
Featuring - Wes Carr (Australian Idol winner) and Ian Moss (Cold Chisel). Supported by Loving Cup, Green River and Annie McKinnon.
A spectacular concert held in the stunning Canyon Picnic Area in Warrumbungle National Park. Concert goers arrive early to stake their spot, renew acquaintances, check out local food and wine stalls and then kick back to enjoy an evening of great fun. Past artists have included Kate Ceberano in 2007 and James Reign, Felicity Urquart and Adam Rennie in 2008, and the charasmatic Jon English in 2009.
For more information on the annual Crooked Mountain Concert, please contact Warrumbungle National Park Visitors Centre. read more ...

FEBRUARY

BINNAWAY RACES
2011 Event Date - TBC 
A reunion weekend of all past and present Binnaway residents.

Bring your friends and enjoy lunch at the races. Racing starts mid morning with fashions in the field competition held later in the day. There is also a live band at the Exchange Hotel in the evening.
  read more ... COOLAH CAMPDRAFT
2011 Event Date - TBC
This event showcases the great skills of horse and rider in a variety of campdraft events. Dinner, BBQ, bar and live entertainment on Saturday night.

 
  read more ...

MARCH

DUNEDOO BUSH POETRY FESTIVAL 2011 Event date - TBC (usually held early March).
The Dunedoo Bush Poetry Festival is three days of bush poetry competitions, street theatre, puppetry, music, market stalls and comedy entertainment. Something for everyone of all ages! Anyone can have a go in this supportive environment so join in the fun over the weekend!
The Festival starts on Thursday night with a meet and greet at the Dunedoo Caravan Park. A BBQ will be available and entertainment will be provided. 
On Friday there is a bus tour of the local area with commentary from the locals. Bookings are essential. The Poetry Competition begins on Friday at the Dunedoo Golf Club where entry is free. A $250 prize will be awarded for the best yarn not told before at the Festival.
The Saturday morning markets will include interesting demonstrations and with early Australian music adding atmosphere. The Dunedoo Central School Poetry Competition will be in full swing with an awards night later in the evening.
To finish the Festival, enjoy a Poet's Breakfast and Brawl on Sunday from 8am at Milling Park. read more ... BINNAWAY SHOW
2011 Event date - Saturday, 5th March
A classic agricultural show featuring cattle, sheep and prime lamb judging, exhibitions and judging in the pavilions including cooking, sauces, arts, crafts, photography, handicrafts, sewing, knitting, farm and garden produce. Other novelty events include a tractor pull, speed shear, vintage cars and machinery displays, side show alley and food and beverage stalls.

 
  read more ... COONABARABRAN SHOW  
 2011 Event Date - Friday, 11th March to Saturday, 12th March
A huge lineup of events including Friday night rodeo, horseriding, wood chop, live bands, Davidson Cameron Sportsman Challenge, sideshow alley and Saturday evening fireworks. read more ... ROCK'N AT THE RACECOURSE 2011 Event Date - TBC
A feast of music, food stalls, kids entertainment, camping facilites and a licensed bar. Top 5 Aria Aria Artist Col Finley will perform, along with Maureen O'Brien, Steve McCauley and Streamline, Tim Dennis and The Cardinal Groove.
Pleas visit www.rocknattheracecourse.com for further information.  read more ... BARADINE SHOW
2011 Event Date - Saturday, 19th March
Check out the pavilions displaying the best produce across a range of categories, including sheep, wool, cattle, horticulture and handicrafts.The

sheep dog trials, vintage car and engine displays, tractor demonstrations, magic show, bull rides and side show alley will keep you entertained from dawn til dusk. read more ... MENDOORAN SHOW
2011 Event Date - Saturday, 26th March to Sunday, 27th March
An agricultural show featuring equestrian events, pavillions, sheep and cattle, shearing displays, tractor pull, novelty events, arts and crafts and fresh local produce. A great family day out.

 
  read more ...

APRIL

DUNEDOO SHOW
2011 Event Date - Friday, 1st April to Saturday, 2nd April
The best one day show in the west! A great country atmosphere with ring events, rural displays and the return of the Miss Showgirl competition.

 
  read more ... TOUR DE WARRUMBUNGLES BIKE RIDE 2011 Event Date - Saturday, 16th and Sunday, 17th April
Join locals and visitors for the annual cycling weekend that races into and around the magnificient Warrumbungle National Park. There are five rides to choose from: 84km (elite), 50km and 43km (fit/very fit) 23km downhill (thrill seekers) and 12 km (a gentle but rewarding ride).
A coffee ride will be held on the Saturday of the event.
  read more ... HARTWOOD CAMPFIRES AND COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL 2011 Event Date - Friday, 22nd April to Sunday, 24th April (TBC)
A weekend of easy listening country music set on the gorgeous Hartwood property. Come for the day or bring a caravan or tent and stay for a few days!
Program highlights include Paul McCloud, Peter Horan, Tom Maxwell and Laura Downing.
Hartwood is located approx 160km SW of Tamworth, turn in 20kms south of Tambar Springs on Coolah Rd or 40km north of Coolah. Held on Easter long weekend every year.
Visit www.paulmccloud.com for further details. read more ... BUNNY BAZAAR 2011 Event Date - Saturday, 23rd April
Held on Easter Saturday in the Coonabarabran CBD, the street festival features market stall, musical entertainment and a jumping castle for the kids. Shop locally. 
  read more ...

MAY

ART UNLIMITED – DUNEDOO 2011 Event Date - Friday, 20th May - Sunday, 22nd May
The Dunedoo Lions Club presents an eclectic art exhibition embracing hanging art, photography and ceramics. Attracting professional and amateur artists from across the region and around the state, there is more than $9000 worth of prizes to be won. Please note - you must be over 18 years of age to enter.
Phone 02 6375 1540 or visit www.artunlimitednsw.com.au to find out more information and collect an entry form.
read more ...