Wherever you wander in New South Wales, many roads pass through the picturesque village of Boorowa. But there is much more to this town than an inviting main street and a convenient toilet stop (with super clean facilities of course) to have a quick break on your way to pastures new. Boorowa is a gem nestled on the slopes of NSW with a rich history of old world heritage. Old fashioned values are still instilled into the town and the locals, who provide a warm welcome to any newcomer.
The Pantry On Pudman is Boorowa’s answer to the ultimate coffee/shopping experience. Sit in a comfy armchair with a cappuccino and have a look at the clothes, antiques and books that surround you. The Pantry is a unique mix of delicious Bills Beans coffee, an eclectic range of home baked locally made sweets, scrumptious regional & national produce, fresh flowers by Native Botanical & an eccentric range of antiques & collectables.
After you’ve had a caffeine hit why not check up on your family history? The town is steeped in it, much of which can be seen on the Shamrock Trails. Follow the lucky green symbols around the pavements to guide you on your way back in time. Head to the Riverwalk path to meander over the river and duck pond, admiring the scenery before you take a swing at the Golf Course or dive into the Olympic Pool.
FibreFilia is a patch workers heaven, a magical studio of natural fibres and textile supplies. Enjoy a rustle through natural yarns including noro and rowan and quilt making materials or feel the high quality merino and mohair wool, straight from the sheep’s back to become whatever you wish. The shop has spinning wheels, ashford looms and felting materials along with natural dyes. Other luxury fibres include silk, cashmere, mohair and alpaca. Speaking of wool, if you haven’t attended the Irish Woolfest before, clear your diary on the October long weekend and head to Boorowa to see the running of the sheep! It is a free day of nonstop activities featuring Irish and Wool events, book in now with the Caravan Park to reserve a spot, either in the Park or the Showground – you can check the details out at www.irishwoolfest.com.au.
Boorowa Ex-Services & Citizens Club has a large auditorium available for FREE complete with brand new kitchen facilities. This steal of a deal is perfect for a wedding, a 21st or an anniversary. Or even a kids disco! The Club has a dining room that is open seven days a week and chef Richard Banks will quote individually on all functions. The Club has bowls greens available, along with 2 squash courts, a dart board and pool tables. If you want to challenge your fitness you can always try out the gym in the Club, how about a Zumba, pump or pilates class? If you would like to find out more about holding a function or just fancy dinner call the friendly staff on 63853338.
Three Wishes is an emporium-style gift store and a current stockist for Royal Doulton, Eb n Ive, Glasshouse, Perfect Pieces and Oneworld. This beautifully laid out boutique showcases a variety of desirable homewares and gifts to suit all tastes. Some brands that owner, Denise, stocks include Pratten Eelskin quality bags and wallets, Glasshouse candles, with which you can create a romantic atmosphere and Castabel soaps that offer a wonderful range of delicious scents. Find that quirky umbrella from Gina and May dotted with spots and amazing colours, grab some Pipduck gumboots to protect you from rain and mud with a wonderful range of styles or spruce up your home with Murchison Hume natural cleaning products that cover every need. Perfect Pieces have furniture to suit a Tuscan style and currently the shop is sprinkled with Valentine’s Day love including scented love-heart shaped red candles, rose petals and other delights.
Bendigo Community Bank has been trading for nearly 14 years in Boorowa and has generated $118 million in business. Over the course of their time in the town they have given back over $1 million to the community in grants, sponsorships, donations and dividends. Looking at their success in Boorowa, which has a similar demographic to Canowindra, it is amazing to see the difference a community bank has made.
Home Finch is a new addition to the bustling township of Boorowa. The shop opened its doors in September 2014 and business owners Ramona Munns and Ally Corkhill have thoroughly enjoyed every moment so far! Home Finch is packed full of fun, edgy and colourful products as well as the more traditional home and gift wares that people love! From the beginning, Ally and Ramona have tried to incorporate as many local and Australian made products into their shop, with the most recent arrival being beautiful handmade clay jewellery from Tasmania. Ally and Ramona have created a friendly and beautiful atmosphere in a small space. Go and see them on Marsden street when you get a chance.
So next time you’re heading back from Canberra or another well-travelled road that comes through this little town, have a walk round Boorowa and see the wonderful quirks it has to offer. Or if you’re still nursing a hangover from a night in the big city, stop at Boorowa Pharmacy and let them set you right, don’t suffer in the car for all those hours!