Forbes Area

Destinations -> New South Wales -> Forbes Area

Forbes town and district is situated along the Lachlan River, in the heart of the Lachlan Valley. The area is located approximately 360 kilometres west of Sydney. The township was founded in 1817 by explorer John Oxley.

The discovery of gold in 1861 increased the population to 40,000 during a five year span. Many aspects such as the Albion Hotel (formerly Cobb & Co Stage Coach stop) remind us of the former era. Tunnels were building under the town and were used during the gold rush to convey gold and money to and from the banks to avoid the chance of being robbed.

It is thought that the town was named after Sir Francis Forbes who was the first Chief Justice of New South Wales. Notorious bushranger Ben Hall and his gang left a marked impression on Forbes' history. Hall and his gang were well known throughout the district through the earlier 1860's for their daring robberies of stage coaches and banks. He is buried in the Forbes cemetery.

The district is the centre of one o... Forbes town and district is situated along the Lachlan River, in the heart of the Lachlan Valley. The area is located approximately 360 kilometres west of Sydney. The township was founded in 1817 by explorer John Oxley.

The discovery of gold in 1861 increased the population to 40,000 during a five year span. Many aspects such as the Albion Hotel (formerly Cobb & Co Stage Coach stop) remind us of the former era. Tunnels were building under the town and were used during the gold rush to convey gold and money to and from the banks to avoid the chance of being robbed.

It is thought that the town was named after Sir Francis Forbes who was the first Chief Justice of New South Wales. Notorious bushranger Ben Hall and his gang left a marked impression on Forbes' history. Hall and his gang were well known throughout the district through the earlier 1860's for their daring robberies of stage coaches and banks. He is buried in the Forbes cemetery.

The district is the centre of one of the richest primary producing areas of the State. The town and district is not just rich in agriculture but also rich in history. Many unique features make the town appealing to visitors, including the tranquillity of Lake Forbes and the parklands through to the historic buildings and landmarks of the town.

Fantastic attractions such as the Lachlan Vintage Village, Forbes Historical Society Museum, National Trust listed Historic Cemetery, Native Wildlife Sanctuary Gum Swamp - Bird Hide, Sandhill's Vineyard, Chislett's Winery, Ruby's Alpaca Stud, a very well resourced Family History Centre (provides a fascinating information for finding your family tree). The town is well renown for it's beautiful parks and picnic spots especially around Lake Forbes and the Lachlan River giving tourists and locals plenty of opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities.