Follow the Canola Trail as it winds through spectacular fields of gold to explore charming towns and quaint villages overflowing with hidden gems. September is the golden time to travel, with flowering canola throughout the region. Check out these attractions in Coolamon and Temora Shire, stopping at one of the many picnic and BBQ areas for a rest along the #canolatrail.
Photo by Temora Aviation Museum
The esteemed Temora Aviation Museum is open for visitors with thorough practices in place for social distancing. Visit the static display at any time or make a weekend of it at the October Flying Showcase (17 and 18 October). With the largest collection of warbird aircraft in the Southern Hemisphere, seeing them in the air is a breathtaking experience and one you won’t want to miss. The showcase has been approved to go ahead with a limit of 500 patrons, allowing for safe social distancing, and will certainly not disappoint. Whether you’re an avid aviation enthusiast, or someone looking for something new to try, a Temora Aviation Flying Showcase is the perfect choice for an adventure. Plan a weekend trip and take advantage of the Two-Museum Pass and explore Temora’s Bundawarrah Centre too. Looking to visit in 2021? The world famous Warbirds Downunder is scheduled for the 6th and 7th March 2021. Book your tickets at www.aviationmuseum.com.au
The Bundawarrah Centre in Temora is a cultural hub with an abundance of personality. Explore the extensive collections as you wander through exhibits carefully selected and preserved by the museum’s curator and volunteer staff. The Bundawarrah Centre is home to Temora Rural Museum, Temora Ambulance Museum, the Rural Fire Brigade Collection and a number of permanent and visiting exhibitions. From Bradman’s first home to the Dodge Ambulances of eras gone by, The Bundawarrah Centre will have you enthralled for hours. Strict practices are in place to ensure your safety and social distancing.
Enjoy a drive from Temora to the village of Ariah Park and immerse yourself in the Canola Trail. Though August and September are prime times for those vibrant golden paddocks, the scenery is beautiful all year round. Time your trip to Ariah Park so you can enjoy lunch at the Ariah Park Hotel. Over a century old, the pub entrance is still decorated with the beautiful tile work from its original design and the current owners have worked hard to restore the pub to honour its roots, whilst ensuring the comfort of their patrons. Select from the delicious menu, sit in the beer garden and enjoy the menagerie of animals on the property. The kids will love running around with the sheep, geese and chickens – and even a cow, or playing on the free play equipment. Once your bellies are full, drive on to Coolamon for more adventures.
The stunning State Heritage listed Up-to-Date Store provides a rare glimpse into early 1900s general stores. This well-kept building is worth a visit. Home to the Lamson Cash Railway System, believed to be the only one that is still in its original location. This is a significant feature of retail history. The Up-to-Date Store is home to the Gullaman, Garth Jones, Reg Godde and Mavis Furner collections. You’ll also find the RSL Museum within this precinct.
Located in Coolamon’s main street, Coolamon Fire Museum is packed to the brim with a large range of firefighting memorabilia, collected over three decades. Manager, Chris Berry, is more than happy to show you through the collection and share stories about each piece. This museum may be small, but is packed with plenty.