On behalf of Forbes Shire Council and the people of Forbes, I welcome you on your visit to our friendly, historic and inviting town. The town and district is situated around the Lachlan River, and is in the "Heart of the Lachlan Valley".
Explorer, John Oxley first arrived at Forbes in 1817. The town is named after Sir Francis Forbes, the first Chief Justice of N.S.W. It is the centre of one of the richest primary producing areas of the State.
In 1861, the discovery of gold started an avalanche of miners, prospectors and fortune seekers looking to stake their claim on a rich find. The town grew to a population of over 30,000 people with the town quickly adapting to the sudden influx. The town looked more like a tent city with thousands of temporary dwellings set up throughout the district.
The gold strikes brought the likes of Ben Hall, Frank Gardiner and their respective bushranging gangs to town with their deeds now written into bushranging folklore.
The town and district is rich in history and has many unique features to offer the visitor, including the tranquillity of our lake and parklands in the centre of the town.
All accommodation in the town is of a high standard as is the service provided by shops, restaurants and other outlets you may require. Council jointly operates the Tourist Information Centre with the Railway Arts Group and we recommend you visit the centre for any further information you may require during your stay.
We sincerely trust that you will enjoy your visit to Forbes and you will return again in the future.
PETER SMITH
ACTING GENERAL MANAGER
FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL
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A spectacular aerial view of the town outlays the full picture
of the township, lake and surrounds. Back To Index: Photos "A"