Winter 2024: Frosty Delights in Amazing Forbes ❄️

Heritage Week was a whirlwind of excitement, and once again the historical bus tour proved to be an experience like no other! Exploring our local history, a sold-out tour embarked on a journey that unveiled the rich tapestry of stories woven into and from the very fabric of our community.

First stop was the Road Kill Sculpture, nestled just around the bend in the river from Fenn’s Crossing. Here, roving actor troupe Convict Footprints painted a vivid picture of the arduous march from Lambing Flat to Lachlan Goldfields during the gold rush of 1861. The footsteps of the early pioneers were retraced while guests learnt about Fenn’s Crossing—the only river crossing in the area—and the many challenges faced by travelers.

Onto the Lachlan Vintage Village, a treasure trove of history waiting to be discovered.
Convict Footprints regaled the avid observer with tales of the great South Lead and the gold rush that once gripped the region. Guests marvelled at the Assayers Hut, where the purity of gold was tested, and imagined the bustling activity of miners seeking their fortunes.

The final destination of the tour was the Pioneer Cemetery, a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the legacies left behind. Here, Convict Footprints recounted the multicultural influx that transformed Forbes during the gold rush, with a mosaic of cultures converging in search of wealth and opportunity.
Wandering among the gravestones, visitors paid homage to the early pioneers who helped shape our town, their final resting place a testament to their enduring spirit. Yet, even in the face of adversity, faith remained a constant, offering solace to those who had little else. The tour journey concluded with a poignant reading from an 1863 newspaper, offering a glimpse into life in Forbes.

Heritage Week may have come to an end, but the stories told will continue to inspire and preserve for years to come. Reflecting on our shared history; a reminder of the sacrifices of those who came before us and to honor their legacy by preserving our heritage for future generations to cherish.