Family ties in Canowindra!

33kms north of Cowra, sitting on the Belubula River which runs into the Lachlan, is the historic township of Canowindra, meaning "home". A town little changed,with splashes of modern living, making it a great place to visit. Great ambience of times past!

And "home" it is for Peter's mum and her family! Canowindra has special memories for Pete as a young boy growing up and visiting his grandparents (his mum's parents) and family here. His aunty and cousin still reside in this lovely old town. Driving into the town was like driving into a movie set! We had a lovely time strolling around, Pete remembering, reminiscing and recounting his childhood memories. A special time! It was even more special to spend time with his cousin and aunty - lots of family pictures and stories were shared! Pete and Rod had a great time sharing the stories of their Christmas holidays and the things they got up to! Pete came a way with a fist full of photocopied pages recounting his family history.

Nana and Pa's house where Pete remembers so much christmas fun

The main street of Canowindra, Ferguson Street, is heritage listed

The main street is noticeably curved, and is known to the locals as "Bendy Street". It follows the bend of the old bullock track and would have been straight if the original bridge had been built where it was planned. Due to the difficulties bridging the large flood plains of the Belubula River, the bridge was instead built slightly upstream, and the main street curved with the river to the new crossing.

The newsagents hasn't moved or change one bit!

A bit of modern!- a cellar door in the middle of town

The old swing bridge (recently had a revamp)

A nostalgic walk across the bridge

The Belabula and the old weir

The Old Vic Hotel
Built at the beginning of the last century it is a great example of Victorian architecture with the lovely iron laced verandah, grand staircase, big rooms, high ceilings and polished floors.

Now a private residence, the Grantham Private hospital is where Pete's mum was born.

The home is named "Melva" after the lady who owned the home, interesting coincidence! Special!

The original Bowd farm on the hillside in the distance - Fernmount

Pete's grandfathers 1950's Anglia lovingly looked after by grandson Rod

The boys reminiscing!

Riding around the yard! Back to boyhood for these two I think!

Pa's cigarette butts are still in the ashtray!

The house where Pete's mum grew up

The 100year old fan found in Pa's shed - worked on oil and a flame

A drink and dinner at the historic Junction Hotel

The Age of Fishes Museum is a special attraction in Canowindra as it is home to an incredible 360 million year old fossil collection.
Unfortunately it was shut when we went to explore.
 Oh well, we'll have to return, and maybe next time we'll do a hot air balloon ride which the town is renowned for.

We'll be back! :)