FORBES TRAVEL
VISITOR AND
HOLIDAY GUIDE

FORBES TRAVEL VISITOR AND HOLIDAY GUIDE

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Nestled on the Lachlan River

Forbes is in the heart of NSW and is a 4-hour drive from Sydney, 3 hours from Canberra and 1.5 hours from Orange.

On the Lachlan River in the heart of the Lachlan Valley, Forbes has magnificent heritage buildings, a stunning natural environment and unique local attractions.

Take in the sights of beautiful Lake Forbes, a natural lagoon offering walking and cycle tracks to enjoy abundant birdlife, shaded picnic areas, BBQ facilities, playgrounds and RV rest area. See the myriad of sculptures and learn about the Wiradjuri people and their captivating culture.

Forbes has an extensive array of places to eat and stay and if you’re looking to shop, the locally owned boutique and speciality shops will be sure to offer something distinctive. McFeeter’s Motor Museum is a must for motor enthusiasts and the Forbes Museum is a hidden gem that will inspire you to seek out the legacy of Ben Hall; visit the site where he was shot and his final resting place. Forbes is amazing!

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FOOD OF FORBES

Forbes has some of the most appetising food and produce available New South Wales. These include yabbies with their exquisite and tender white meat. And the rivers and streams have much sort after Yellow Belly, Carp and Murray Cod.
Many people forage for native Australian produce and guided tours are available to help you.
Forbes is famous for seasonal produce available from stone fruit orchards, olive groves and farms.
Tours are available from the visitor information centre and www.cenwestours.com.au

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FARMING AROUND FORBES

Forbes is one of the most productive agricultural areas in Australia growing high-quality cereal and oil crops and premium meat. Farm tour and tours of farm industry facilities are available. These are conducted by retires stock and station agents and can be booked at the visitor centre.

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LACHLAN RIVER

The Lachlan River is picturesque and accessible, offering a choice of secluded locations to immerse yourself in Mother Nature and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Aussie bush.
Bird watching
Located only 4kms south of Forbes off the Newell Highway, Forbes Kalari Wetlands provides a protected habitat for rich and diverse birdlife
Fishing
Nestled between the Bedgerabong Road and Lachlan Valley Way is the scenic Lachlan River abundant with native animals, plants, birds and fish.
Swimming
There is nothing like sinking your feet into the cool sand of a river
bed. Paddle in the shallows of the Lachlan River and take in the sights and sounds of this picturesque riverine environment.

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AUSTRALIA’S FAMOUS “LONG PADDOCK” AT FORBES

Travelling stock routes once linked the grazing areas of Australia and passed through Forbes and today provides exciting adventures for those wanting to experience the lifestyle of the famous Australian driver and want to connect to the natural environment. You can book a guided tour to go camping along the Stock Route or you can travel it at your leisure. Information for these tours and the stock routes is available at the visitor centre.

Forbes Post Office

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ATTRACTIONS

FORBES WETLANDS BIRD HIDE

The Forbes wetlands and Wildlife Sanctuary is 4 km south of Forbes off the Newell Highway. They provide a protected habitat for a rich diversity of Wildlife in birdlife. these wetlands are well known and attract ornithologists from around the world. Over 60 species of birds can be observed at the Wetlands the many of these are listed as threatened or endangered.

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LAKE FORBES

Studded with majestic fountains, interesting sculptures and quaint pedestrian bridges, Lake Forbes is a magnet for visitors, a popular place for families to gather and for friends to meet.
Lake Forbes branches off the Lachlan River and is right in the middle of town. You can canoe, use pedal boats or watch the dragon boats while you walk or take a bike ride along the 9 kilometres of shared paths around the lake.

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FREE PICNIC AREAS

Forbes is renowned for idyllic picnic spots along Lake Forbes and the Lachlan River. There are a number of free BBQ areas and they are perfect spots for entertaining relaxing and enjoying the great outdoors.

Forbes Town Hall

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AUSSIE BISCUITS

137 Rankin St, Forbes NSW 2871
Ph 02 1300 399 522
Email aussiebiscuits@aruma.com.au
www.aussiebiscuits.com.au
Open Mon to Fri 8.30am to 3.30pm (Closed weekends and public holidays)
Phone or email to organise a guided tour of our factory. Groups are welcome, bookings are essential and donations are appreciated.
As a business of Aruma, formerly House with No Steps, Aussie Biscuits supports people to live a great life, the life they want, the life they choose.

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McFEETERS MOTOR MUSEUM

Cnr Oxford St and Newell Highway Forbes NSW 2871
Ph 02 6852 3001
Email mcfeeters@motormuseum.com.au
www.motormuseum.com.au
Open daily from 9am to 5pm. Closed Christmas Day.
On the Newell Highway on the southern entrance to Forbes. A remarkable purpose-built exhibition centre displaying a vast collection of meticulously restored motor vehicles. The collection ranges from veterans to custom cars, rare and common and even bizarre.

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SOMEWHERE DOWN THE LACHLAN SCULPTURE TRAIL AND PLATYPUS GALLERY

Permanent public art from local sculptors including award-winning artists Gille and Marc and Harrie Fasher.
Platypus Gallery, Lachlan Street Forbes Ph 02 6851 4868
Somewhere Down The Lachlan Sculpture Trail Albion Park, South Condobolin Road and various locations around Forbes.
Collect a “Somewhere Down the Lachlan Sculpture Trail” brochure from the Visitor Information Centre or for more information go to www.somewheredownthelachlan.com

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SYLO CAFE

23-25 Rankin Street Forbes NSW
PH 02 6850 1788
Email sylo@ccwf.org.au
www.sylocafe.com.au
“Try one of our signature selections and see what everyone’s talking about.”

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Forbes Historic Letterbox

FORBES HISTORICAL MUSEUM

The collection contains a captivating collection of local Aboriginal, pioneering, gold rush, and bushranger history as well as “Forbes Through the Wars” artefacts. A standout is an award-winning exhibition about the infamous local bushranger Ben Hall.

Forbes Historical Museum
11 Cross St, Forbes NSW 2871
Ph 02 6851 6600
Email forbesmuseum@gmail.com
www.forbesmuseum.com.au
Open daily 2pm to 4pm

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FORBES OLYMPIC POOL

A full day of family fun awaits at the Forbes Olympic Pool. A 50m pool and children’s splash park with water features will keep children of all ages entertained.
Lawler Street, Forbes
Ph 02 6852 1431

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FORBES EVENTS

For more information about these amazing events and more go to
www.amazingforbesnsw.com/upcoming-events-amazing-forbes/

JANUARY
Elvis Breakfast
Australia Day events
FEBRUARY
Bedgerabong Picnic Races
NSW Barefoot Water Ski
Tournament
MARCH
Forbes Rugby Club
President’s Lunch
Seniors Week events
APRIL
Anzac Day events
Forbes Rodeo
Good Friday Camel Races
Easter Bowls Carnival
Youth Week events
MAY
Kalari-Lachlan River Arts Festival
Forbes Country Music Club
Talent Quest
Forbes Flatland Cyclo Sportif
Heritage Week
Forbes Legends ProAm
JUNE
Forbes Eisteddfod
JULY
NAIDOC Week events
AUGUST
Forbes Cup
Bedgerabong Show
NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show
SEPTEMBER
Forbes Show
Grazing Down the Lachlan
OCTOBER
Forbes Motor Show
Bedgerabong Country Music
Campout
Forbes Spring Races
Forbes Running Festival
Gone Fishing Day
Forbes Baby Boomers Festival
Sculpture Forbes
Children’s Week events
DECEMBER
Rotary Ipomoea Christmas
Tree Festival
Forbes Ultimate Triathlon
Carols by Candlelight
Forbes Flatlands Hang Gliding
Competition
Christmas Carnival

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MONTHLY MARKETS

Forbes Rotary Ipomoea Markets
2nd Saturday

Forbes Handicraft Centre Market Day
Every 3rd Saturday

Forbes Farmers Markets
4th Saturday

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Forbes Railway Arts & Crafts Visitor Information Centre

FORBES VISITOR INFORMATION

Forbes Railway Arts & Crafts Visitor Information Centre
Forbes Railway Station, Union Street Forbes NSW 2871
Ph 02 6852 4155
Email tourism@forbes.nsw.gov.au
www.amazingforbesnsw.com
Open daily from 9am to 5pm. Closes at 4pm June to August. Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing day.
Download visitor guide https://www.amazingforbesnsw.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/FSC_DestinationGuideLO.pdf

McFeeters Motor Museum and Visitor Information Centre
Cnr Oxford St and Newell Highway Forbes NSW 2871
Ph 02 6852 3001
Email mcfeeters@motormuseum.com.au
www.motormuseum.com.au
Open daily from 9am to 5pm. Closed Christmas Day.

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COUNCIL

Forbes Shire Council
Forbes Town Hall
2 Court St Forbes NSW 2871
Ph 02 6850 2300
Email forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au
www.forbes.nsw.gov.au

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CLUBS

FORBES SERVICES MEMORIAL CLUB
41-43 Templar Street, Forbes
Ph 02 6852 1488
forbesservices.com

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SHOPPING

CHAPTERTWO BOUTIQUE
91 Rankin Street, Forbes
Ph(02 6851 2082
chaptertwoboutique.com.au
Tempt your inner fabulous with amazing labels such as Stevie May, Scotch & Soda, Trelise Cooper and Tigerlily. We offer timeless, luxurious and sophisticated statement pieces, as well as fun and relaxed basic.

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LITTLE EXTRAS LIFESTYLE
1 Templar Street, Forbes
Ph 02 6851 5686
Littleextraslifestyle.com.au
Step into Little Extras Lifestyle and discover a treasure trove of stunning jewellery, a wide range of funky casual wear and loads of leather handbags and wallets. Browse for that “must-have” pair of ankle boots or fabulous flats.

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WOOLERINA
70 Torig Road, Forbes
Ph 02 6851 2100
woolerina.com.au
Merino garments made with love, to be loved. We hand-select Merino fleece to create beautifully made garments for women, men, kids and babies.

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PAINTED DAISIES GIFT SHOPPE
Shop 1B/1 Templar Street, Forbes
Ph 02 6852 1112
www.painteddaisiesforbes.com

“Painted Daisies is your destination for unique, handpicked homewares and gifts to suit any budget. Charming soft furnishings, luxurious throws, the latest in wall hangings and a wide range of aromatic oils, candles and soaps are available instore and online.“

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UNDERCOVER SLEEPWEAR AND LINGERIE
Shop 1/61 Rankin Street, Forbes
Ph 02 6851 4405
Offering quality fashion and basic lingerie, sleepwear, shapewear and the best of swimwear for all ladies from Size 8 to 24.

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WOOD N STEEL FURNITURE
Cnr Grenfell and Rankin Street, Forbes
Ph 0428 645 512
Facebook Wood-n-Steel-Furniture-Forbes
Exquisite furniture masterfully crafted in Forbes. If you’re looking for that one-of-a-kind piece for your home, or you need to create a unique space within your place of business, then talk to Gavin at Wood n Steel Furniture.

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ACCOMMODATION

ADRIAN MOTEL
3 Dowling Street, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 02 6852 2611
Email adrianmotelforbes@yahoo.com
adrianmotel.traveleto.com/

“At Adrian Motel you’ll be within just a 15-minute stroll of Forbes Historical Society Museum, Forbes Golf Club, and Victoria Park.”

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APEX RIVERSIDE TOURIST PARK
88 Reymond St, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 6851 1929
Email manager@apexriversidepark.com.au
topparks.com.au/parks/nsw/apex-riverside-tourist-park-top-parks-forbes

“BBQ, Dump Point, Swimming Pool, Dogs allowed”

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APPLEYARD BED AND BREAKFAST
11383 The Escort Way, Forbes 2871
Ph 0419 416 665
Email contact@appleyardbnb.com
www.appleyardbnb.com
Three minutes drive from the township of Forbes, in a country setting overlooking a beautiful pond where there are daily visits from a great array of birdlife.

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BEN HALL MOTOR INN
5-7 Cross Street, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 68512345
Email benhall@westserv.net.au
www.benhallmotorinn.com.au
Featuring free Wi-Fi and rooms with a flat-screen TV, the Ben Hall Motor Inn offers affordable motel accommodation centrally located in the Forbes CBD, 2 minutes’ walk from Lake Forbes.

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BIG 4 FORBES HOLIDAY PARK
141-145 Flint Street, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 6852 1055
Email book@big4forbesholidaypark.com.au
www.big4forbesholidaypark.com.au
Big4 Forbes Holiday Park is suitable for those overnight stays on the long road from everywhere to anywhere and/or why not stop a while and use our beautiful caravan park as your base to explore the wonders of this beautiful region.

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CORRIEDALE EQUESTRIAN
4 Corriedale St, Forbes 2871
Email info@horseshednbed.com.au
horseshednbed.com.au/listing/forbes-nsw-corriedale-equestrian
Corriedale Equestrian is a relaxed equine establishment just off the Newell Highway. Perfect for travellers going between Adelaide, Melbourne and Queensland. Ideal for couples or singles who want to stay close to town but also don’t mind being on a property where there are horses, pigs, dogs & a cat!

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COUNTRY MILE MOTOR INN
14 Cross Street, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 6852 4099
Email info@countrymilemotorinn.com.au
www.countrymilemotorinn.com.au
All of our ground floor rooms are spacious with air conditioning, electric blankets, flat-screen TV’s, Foxtel and internet to suit the business or leisure traveller. We also have a disabled room.

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FORBES INN HOTEL
43 Rankin St, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 9772 8801
forbesinnhotel.com.au
Offering single, double and family rooms, the Forbes Inn Hotel is part of the Forbes Inn.

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FORBES VICTORIA INN
8-12 Sherriff Street, Forbes
Ph 02 68512233
Email swvictoriainn@exemail.com.au
www.booking.com/hotel/au/forbes-victoria-inn.html
Centrally located in Forbes, just 2 minutes walk from the banks of Lake Forbes, Forbes Victoria Inn offers air-conditioned rooms with free wired internet and free covered parking.

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GIRRAGIRRA RETREAT
180 Warrul Road, Forbes
Ph 0449 744 681
Email hello@girragirra.comgirragirra.com
www.facebook.com/girragirraretreat
www.instagram.com/girragirra
BOOK DIRECT 
“Designed on a vision of beauty, comfort, ease and sustainability by multi award winning architect, Tone Wheeler, Girragirra’s just five minutes from the beautiful little central west NSW river town of Forbes. Relax into luxury accommodation that is private, self contained and perfectly perched over a waterhole on our 50 acre organic farm.” GIRRAGIRRA RETREAT

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HILLVIEW B&B
5 Barton St, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 6852 2721
Email dunstanf@bigpond.net.au
www.booking.com/hotel/au/hillview-b-amp-b-forbes.en-gb.html
Non-smoking rooms. Situated in Forbes, 34 km from Parkes, Hillview B & B Forbes features a garden and free WiFi.

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LAKE FORBES MOTEL
8 Junction Street, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 68522922
Email enquiry@lakeforbesmotel.com.au
www.lakeforbesmotel.com.au
3 and a half star property conveniently situated on the Newell Highway and nested by the side of picturesque Lake Forbes.

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PLAINSMAN MOTEL
22 Sherriff Street, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 6852 2466
Email comforbes@exemail.com.au
www.plainsmanmotel.com.au
We recommend our fully renovated Deluxe Rooms for a comfortable stay. It is an easy stroll to most facilities in town or a relaxing walk around Lake Forbes.

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RIVER MEADOWS CARAVAN PARK
10 River Road, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 6852 2694
Email info@forbescaravanpark.com.au
www.forbescaravanpark.com.au
It is an ideal stopover point for travellers whether it is only for a night to recharge their batteries or a week while they discover the many delights of Forbes and the surrounding area.

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TOWN & COUNTRY MOTOR INN
13 Parkes Road, Forbes 2871
Ph 02 6852 3444
Email tc@forbesmotel.net.au
www.forbesmotel.net.au
The Town & Country Motor Inn Forbes is a clean peaceful motel located adjacent to Forbes Golf Course with views over the fairways and greens

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YARRABANDAI CREEK HOMESTEAD
216 Burrawang West Road, Ootha 2871
0412 122 988
Email enquiries@yarrabandai.com.au
www.yarrabandai.com.au
The Burrawang West & Burrawang South Cabins are each two-bedroom, one bathroom, self-contained, two-storey accommodations housed side by side in the same building.

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