Originally a farming area and located 34km north of Bathurst, Wattle Flat became a thriving gold town in 1855, when gold was discovered in the area. The population soared during this time to some 40,000 miners. The town was centered around 5 hotels, 2 stores, 2 schools, a Church of England and a Catholic church.
Present
Today Wattle Flat is a beautiful country village with distinguished old huts and cottages as well as many historic mines and diggings. Sensational flora and fauna are features of the area with comfortable accommodation all within a stone’s throw.
What to do & see
This rustic rumbling village’s main street is full of interesting old buildings, including the Old Court House and Police Station.
Wattle Flat general store offers the traveller a welcoming morning or afternoon tea. The store has a wide range of supplies including special gift lines.
Apple Dumpling Cottage is full of interesting items for sale, including general craft and collectables. Open weekends and holidays.
The famous local race carnival, ‘The Bronze Thong’, is held every January at the Wattle Flat Racecourse. It features a full day of country horse racing and other fascinating and fun family activities.
Wattle Flat’s Heritage Lands contain several hectares of ‘Argyle Apple’ (eucalyptus cinera) trees, one of the largest stands in the central west. They are small (15m) distinctive trees with attractive blue-grey foliage.
‘Buurree’, meaning wattle in the Wiradjuri community, is the walking trail of the Heritage Lands. The 3 hour return trip features spectacular views of Wattle Flat
and Sofala from the hill top. Kangaroos, echidnas, wombats, goannas and many native birds join you on your walk. There are also 4WD tracks meandering through the reserve.
Facilities/Services
Facilities and services include a general store for all of your refreshments and petrol should you need to fill up. Some accommodation facilities can be found in the area..
