Gilgandra

Events in and around Gilgandra

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Welcome to Gilgandra, a friendly town located in the central west region of New South Wales. Whether you like nature, culture, sports, food, or music, you can find something fun and exciting to do here, especially during certain seasons. Check out these seasonal events and see what interests you.

Summer (December-February):

- Gilgandra Show: This annual agricultural show, usually held in January, showcases local produce, arts and crafts, livestock, and entertainment, such as rodeos, fireworks, and sideshows. You can also enjoy carnival rides, food stalls, and exhibits. Contact the Gilgandra Show Society for more information at 02 6847 2280.

- Warrumbungle Observatory Night Sky Tours: If you want to see stars, planets, and galaxies up close, join a guided tour of the Warrumbungle National Park observatory, which uses several telescopes and domes to observe the clear skies. You may also learn about astronomy, astrophotography, and Indigenous astronomy. Contact the observatory at 02 6842 3000 for bookings.

- Gilgandra Twilight Markets: On the first Friday of each month from November to April, locals and visitors gather in the Bill Rose Sports Complex to enjoy a variety of market stalls, food vendors, live music, and children's activities. You can find handmade crafts, fresh produce, vintage wares, and more. Contact the Gilgandra Visitor Information Centre for more details at 02 6847 6556.

Autumn (March-May):

- Coo-ee Heritage and Visitor Centre Tours: This museum and gallery, located in the old railway station, showcases the history and culture of Gilgandra and its surrounding areas, including Aboriginal heritage, European settlement, and military service. You can also find souvenirs, gifts, and local information. Contact the centre at 02 6847 2144 for opening hours.

- Gilgandra Campdraft: This annual horse-riding and cattle-pushing competition, usually held in May, attracts many skilled riders and spectators who enjoy the action, excitement, and camaraderie of this traditional Australian sport. You can also watch dog trials, trade displays, and social events. Contact the Gilgandra Campdraft Association for more details at 0407 481 265.

- Gilgandra Festival of Short Films: If you like movies, this biennial event, held in April, allows you to watch a selection of short films made by local and international filmmakers, from animations to dramas to comedies. You can also participate in workshops, Q&A sessions, and after-parties. Contact the Gilgandra Arts Council for tickets and program at 0428 222 614.

Winter (June-August):

- Gilgandra Motor Museum: This private collection of classic and vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles, housed in a former woolshed, showcases the passion and skill of one local family over several decades. You can see rare and iconic models, as well as engines, memorabilia, and restored furniture. Contact the museum at 02 6847 1202 for bookings.

- Gilgandra Country Music Club: If you like country music, this monthly gathering, held on the second Saturday of each month, lets you listen, sing, and dance to a variety of country songs, old and new, performed by talented local and visiting artists. You can also enjoy supper, raffles, and prizes. Contact the club for more details at 0400 843 783.

- Gilgandra Winter Warm-up: This community event, held in July, invites everyone to gather in the Bill Rose Sports Complex for some free entertainment, food, and fun, such as games, activities, rides, competitions, and fireworks. You can also support local charities and businesses. Contact the Gilgandra Shire Council for more information at 02 6817 8800.

Spring (September-November):

- Castlereagh River Campdraft and Rodeo: This annual event, usually held in October, combines the skills of horsemanship, cattle work, and entertainment, as riders and their dogs try to herd cattle through a course while avoiding obstacles and competing for prizes. You can also watch bull riding, barrel racing, and live music. Contact the Gilgandra Castlereagh River Campdraft and Rodeo for details at 0427 472 114.

- Gilgandra Garden Club Spring Show: This biennial exhibition, usually held in September, allows local gardeners to showcase their best blooms, foliage, designs, and crafts, as judged by experts and admired by visitors. You can also enjoy refreshments, raffles, and advice. Contact the club for details at 02 6847 2382.

- Gilgandra Art Gallery Exhibitions: This art space, located in the Coo-ee Heritage and Visitor Centre, hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the works of local and regional artists, from paintings to sculptures to installations. You can also attend artist talks, workshops, and events. Contact the gallery at 02 6817 8800 for current shows.

No matter what season you come to Gilgandra, you can find something to enjoy and remember. So pack your bags, grab your tickets, and come and discover what makes this town special.