The Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail is back on 12-13 April 2025, promising a fascinating weekend of craftsmanship, culture, and history.
Held at the historic Bathurst Showground, the event will feature more than 200 artisans and 100 exhibitors, offering visitors a chance to observe or have a go at traditional skills.
One of the standout attractions is the Back-to-Back Challenge, where shearers, spinners, and knitters race against the clock to transform fleece into a finished sweater—showcasing the speed and skill behind one of Australia’s oldest industries.
A weekend of heritage in action
This award-winning event is perfect for history buffs, creatives, and families looking for an engaging day out. Key highlights include:
- Live demonstrations and workshops – See blacksmiths, spinners, violin makers, furniture makers, and more showcasing their craft.
- The Back-to-Back Challenge – Watch a team turn freshly shorn wool into a wearable sweater in record time.
- Rare heritage displays – Don’t miss John Kitchen’s Penny Farthings, Milan Dhiiyaan’s Indigenous tools and weapons, Pete Storey’s handcrafted bows and arrows, and the Australian Mechanical Organ Society’s unique collection.
- Hands-on activities – Ride a Cobb & Co coach, crack a stock whip, try a greenwood lathe, or operate a vintage printing press to create your own name card.
- Heritage Trades Trail Shuttle Tour – Visit seven of Bathurst’s top heritage sites, including Abercrombie House, Miss Traill’s House and Garden, and Bathurst Rail Museum, with discounted entry and free shuttle buses.
- Heritage building workshops – Learn the art of limewashing and repointing, perfect for those interested in traditional restoration techniques.
More than just a fair
The Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail isn’t just about looking—it’s about experiencing. With food stalls, live music, and interactive exhibits, the event offers a full day of discovery and fun. For those making a weekend of it, Bathurst has a range of accommodation and dining options to complete the getaway.
Event details
- When: 10:00-16:00, Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 April 2025
- Where: Bathurst Showground, 28 Kendall Ave, Bathurst
- Tickets: $25 at the gate (Early Bird $20 before 1 March); free entry for accompanied children under 16. Tickets are valid for both days.
- Parking: Onsite parking available with a gold coin donation to the Lions Club.
