Golden towns

So much of the NSW central west was established with the discovery of gold. The most recent towns we’ve stayed at or near are no exception.

Rylstone, between Lithgow and Mudgee, is a quaint little town with a beautiful streetscape and many preserved buildings dating back to the 1800s. Of course, it also has a great hospital. We stayed 2 nights at the Rylstone showground. We had read that free camping (with water views) was allowed, so we took up the offer, along with one other camper. Upon enquiring at the Council offices the following day we were advised that “no camping is allowed there…… but you didn’t come in here to ask”.  So it seems to be allowed, or tolerated, but not officially.

From Rylstone, a short 60km drive west took us to Green Point, a free camp on the Turon River 6km east of Sofala. We were fortunate to secure a beautiful shaded spot adjacent to the river. Surrounded by towering She Oaks (Casuarina cunninghamiana (or River Oak)). Oh, what a beautiful site. No neighbours, a few metres walk to a clear, clean river (ample water supply) and birdlife.

A highlight was that we were entertained by a ballet of fireflies (family Lampyridae) each evening, after sunset, just before complete darkness. These little insects danced through the night air, swooping, disappearing and reappearing over the course of about 30 minutes, some flying close to the water so their light reflected on its surface. Purely magical. They weren’t in huge numbers, maybe 20 on the best night, but still superb.

On one of the 3 days we were at Greens Point we cycled the 6km into Sofala, one of the area’s most successful gold mining towns, bearing gold up to the 1940s. There remains a great heritage streetscape, but not much else. At its peak it supported a population of 20,000, but is likely to be less than 200 now.

Whilst at Greens Point is was time to perform a ceremonial opening of a fruit cake baked for us by our great friend Justine (her knowing my taste).  About 6 weeks had passed since its baking. Carol said upon her first bite “that is one lovely cake”. Thanks Juzzie, just stupendous.

A short 40km drive on Friday morning took us to Hill End to spend with Sandy, Rich and Sairsha who brought their van (Elwood)  up for the weekend. They arrived Friday night, and once set up we sat up chatting (and drinking a little red, as we do) till 1:00 in the morning.

A short walk on Saturday to some of the old buildings, then back to the camp for lunch before heading off to a mine tour. Back to camp for card games, conversation and a magnificent roast lamb and veges by Rich on the Webber.

Whilst packing up at Greens Point, Carol appeared to have been stung/bitten by something. Over the 2 days at Hill End a significant rash developed on her neck, arms and legs, and wasn’t getting any better. Another drive to a hospital, this time Bathurst, on Sunday. Appears to be an allergic reaction to something. A smaller rash appeared on my arms and neck, so we were both prescribed Prednisone tablets. Whilst there I had my stitches removed. We hope this will be our last hospital visit for a few years!!!!

Sandy, Rich and Sairsha headed home today (Sunday). We’ll stay another day or two before heading off the Dunns Swamp, then a few days each in Mudgee, Wellington and Orange before Bathurst for Christmas/New Year.