The explorer, John Oxley, arrived at the present site of Forbes in 1817. This was the official beginning of white settlement in the town, but its boom took place only after gold was discovered here in 1861.
Along with gold came a massive change to the nature of the town and its people. The gold rush fever brought 30,000 to 40,000 newcomers to the town - which soon began to look like a tent city.
Robbery and criminal activities grew alongside the gold fever. Several of the law breakers became bushrangers and their deeds began to rewrite history. Robberies and other criminal activities gave locals a sense of fear as these rugged bush lords made their mark on the district.
Some of Australia's most notorious bushrangers, Ben Hall and the "Gardiner Gang", lived and robbed in the Forbes District. One of the most daring robberies was the 1862 hold-up of the Gold Escort travelling from Forbes to Bathurst. In 1865, at the age of 27, Ben Hall was shot by police near Forbes, but mystery still surrounds him and his legend lives on.
The Forbes History book was launched by Hon Bob Carr, Premier of N.S.W in March 1998. This 600 page, detailed book of the life and history of the town and people is available from Council or local newsagencies. This publication was nominated for the 1998 Premiers Award.
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Erected in 1891 to replace the old, humble meeting building of the Municipal Council on the same site. The cost of the new building was over five thousand pounds. Dame Nellie Melba performed in the Town Hall in 1909. It is used for many of the town functions.
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The first Post Office was established in 1861, then called the Black Ridge Post Office for a short time. There was one postal officer for a population of 15000 in those days. The present Post Office was completed in 1881.
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First established in 1861, this building was completed in the early 1890's. Formerly the Cobb & Co. Coach stop and booking office, it has a tower on top that was used as a lookout for the approaching coach. Tunnels exist under the hotel and were used to channel gold from the banks to be loaded on the Cobb & Co Coach. Visitors are welcome to view the historic hotel and tunnels to undertake in the history which was established through the gold rush era.
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This building was begun in 1874 on land donated by a local man, Josiah Strickland. The nave was completed in 1877, and in 1933 the original shingles were replaced by slate tiles. Magnificent stained glass windows adorn the building.
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Named after its original owner, this hotel once had beautiful gardens, a fountain and stables. Arriving guests were once met at the railway station with a coach.
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Erected in 1877 to replace an earlier wooden building. The Presbyterian Parish was first formed in 1873.
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Donated in 1891, by Mayor William Thomas. The Grecian design fountain is a focal point in the park, opposite the Rotunda and surrounded by shady old trees.
A short walk from the fountain is the tree Prince Charles planted during his visit to Forbes in 1994.
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Paul Wenz Estate Personal Library situated in the recently renovated Forbes Library.
Hours: 10.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday, 10.00 am to 12.00 am Saturday The Forbes Family History Group are located at the rear of the Library.
This is an ideal research area to look up long lost ancestry. For opening hours please phone the Forbes Library on 02 68 521463.
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Built in 1880, this architecture is a symbol of the power of the justice system at that time. The original district it served was huge, including Parkes and Condobolin. The building has been recently renovated.
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Built in 1890's a fine example of early timber architecture. One of the earliest Government Offices in Forbes. At night this building is spectacular as the flood lighting enhances it's appeal. The building houses Government offices today.
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Originally owned by a former Mayor, Mr. William Thomas. This beautifully restored house was built in 1884 and has stone stables at the back.
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Built in 1884, this stately building was one of the first banks in Forbes. Maintained in heritage colours this building is heritage listed.
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Initially a Music/Dance Hall, midwifery, (The Osborne), this building in Cross Street now houses displays of life in the past. The Museum provides a photographic section and dedication to Paul Wenz, "The Henry Lawson of France", a vintage kitchen, relics of bushranging days, antique farm machinery and a photographic display. On display is a spade which was used to plant a tree by H.R.H Prince Charles, on his visit to Forbes in January 1994. An excellent collection of Aboriginal artefacts.
Open daily 3-5pm Summer; 2-4pm Winter.
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The nave of this church was begun in 1877 and the Sacresty and Sanctuary were built in 1902. The original Catholic Church in Forbes was built in 1862, but its site is unknown.
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Single seater fighter bomber, introduced to RAAF in 1949. Carried four 20 mm cannons and 2000lb bombs or rockets. Situated on the shores of Lake Forbes. Barbecue and toilets facilities nearby.
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Located on the Sandhills Road (4 kilometres east off the Orange Road), this cemetery provides an interesting story of life and death in Forbes, dating back to last century.
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