Wattle Flat
WATTLE FLAT - 34Kms North of Bathurst
THE PAST
Originally a farming area, Wattle Flat became a thriving gold town in 1855, when gold was discovered in the area. The population soared during this time to some 40,000 miners. The town was centered around 5 hotels, 2 stores, 2 schools, a Church of England and a Catholic church.
Wattle Flat Church
THE PRESENT
Today Wattle Flat is a beautiful country village with many examples of its past evident in the remains of abandoned mines and diggings, miners' cottages and substantial stone buildings that are still standing. The native woodland provides a backdrop for the flat grazing lands of the region as well as a home for many native animals.
WHAT TO DO & SEE
Explore the streets of the village with the brochure `A Stroll through Wattle Flat' (available at the Bathurst Visitor Information Centre) providing historical background on the many buildings scattered around. Stock up with supplies while enjoying the warmth and friendly service at the General Store. Join the carnival atmosphere of `The Bronze Thong' bush race meeting held every January at the Wattle Flat Racecourse. For the nature lover the nearby Heritage Lands contain the only evidence of the `Argyle Apple' (eucalyptus cinera) in the Central West. Bushwalkers will love the `Buurree' Walking Trail that meanders through the Heritage Lands. A relatively easy 3 hour walk takes you to the hill top for spectacular views of Wattle Flat and Sofala. 4WD enthusiasts can make their way through the reserve via the various tracks found there.
FACILITIES/SERVICES
General store, fuel, public phone, active church, public toilets, picnic tables. Accommodation includes self-contained cottages and B&B. Other establishments operate at nearby Sofala.
