Forbes delivers the unexpected and the amazing…
Forbes’ history notes our Wiradjuri heritage, the arrival of John Oxley in 1817, the heady-heights of the gold rush era and brushes with bushrangers.
Nestled on the Lachlan River in the heart of the Lachlan Valley, our historic town has magnificent heritage buildings, a stunning natural environment and unique local attractions.
Relax and take in the sights and surrounds 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.
Don’t miss our myriad of sculptures – dotted around the lake and throughout the town – and learn about the Wiradjuri people and their captivating culture.
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.
Plan your trip today!
"Forbes is an amazing place to live and bring up young children with beautiful shopping, takeaways and restaurants. We have a beautiful walking track around the lake with water fountains either end, with art along the way and picturesque buildings around town. There’s an awesome golf course for everyone who loves a hit and a giggle. A must for visitors is to call into Girragirra Retreat and take a drive down to see the amazing sign, out the south condo road. We welcome all our visitors to Forbes hope to see you all soon."
Local Janet Callaghan
48 hours in Forbes
DAY 1
Get your stay off to an amazing start with a visit to the Forbes Visitor Information Centre, located in the historic railway station building. Get all the information you need to make the most of your time in Forbes, browse the local produce and goods available, and check out the Ben Hall Discovery Room. Take a tour around the town, following the Forbes Heritage Trail – a self-guided walking tour viewing the magnificent architecture across the town, and discovering the people responsible for many of the buildings we still see here today. While you’re out and about in the CBD you might come across horses and bulls, kelpies and other abstract art peppering the streets, creating a fusion of the heritage and the contemporary. The Sculpture Down the Lachlan sculpture trail is a must do while in Forbes. From the wool mural at the Homemaker Centre, the unique sculptures in the “art park” in the centre of town, and the unique sculptures around the Lake, including the Story Poles along the walking track at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre. Your trip is not complete without a visit to the Aussie Biscuit Factory or Woolerina, touring through the facilities and hearing first-hand about their operations.
DAY 2
McFeeter’s Motor Museum is a must for motor enthusiasts (and even those who are not!) and the Forbes Historical Museum is a hidden gem which will inspire you to seek out the legacy of bushranger Ben Hall. The Historical Museum is open daily 2pm-4pm. Over 60 exquisite vehicles, ranging from veteran to vintage through to classic and street rod machines are on display at the Motor Museum. Like fine art, the vehicles are lovingly preserved and showcased. Be sure to allow plenty of time to meander and browse the collection. Discover old artefacts, unique and antique items, meander through the ever-changing exhibits and view the Ben Hall display at the Forbes Historical Museum. Follow the story of Hall, and visit the site where he was shot as well as his final resting place. While you’re on the Historic Graves Walk at the Forbes Cemetery, view the graves of Kate Kelly, sister of Ned Kelly, and Rebecca Shield, the great grandniece of Captain James Cook, among others. Find your spot in nature, with a walk or cycle around Lake Forbes, or pull up for a picnic on the water’s edge, meander beneath the beautiful gums which stand along the Lachlan River, and take a cheeky photo in front of the “amazing” sculpture, view all sorts of bird life at the Forbes Wetlands Bird Hide, or stay up late to catch a glimpse of the open night sky. And don’t forget about our home-grown boutique stores in our CBD – you are sure to find yourself some part of Forbes to take home with you.
