CANOWINDRA - FOSSILS, BUSHRANGERS, BALLOONS Thousands of years ago a large number offish were stranded on dry land after the water level suddenly fell. The fish, many of them unique, were preserveded for posterity in layers of rock only to he discovered in the 1900s and then catapulted into fame when their true value was realised. In between the land has seen many changes, particularly in the past 150 years with the development of a township not far from wherethe fish were left high and dry. From crude beginnings on the south of the Belubula River it was realised by most that a township on the north side would do better and in 1846, the same year as Governor Fitzroy visited the area, the first buildings were erected. The private town developed steadily as it was adjacent to one of the few crossings of the river and in a piecemeal style with odd blocks of land and no formal street plan, hence the winding nature of the main street, Gaskill Street. Nearby copper and gold mines at Belmore (now Moorbel) also contributed. Its next claim to fame came in 1863 when bushranger Ben Hall and his gang took over Robinson's Inn, later the Royal Hotel, and took townsfolk as hostages.

After the first road bridge was built in 1874 the town developed at a faster pace and many of the old honles and buildings date from the latter part of the 19th century. The town became a service centre for the Belubula valleyand surrounding wheat area. Today the colourful past repays Canowindra handsomely. Walking along the streets takes you back to the 1800s while a visit to the museum and antique shops give you an idea of how the people lived. Canowindra's still air, cool mornings and warm days have made it an ideal location for hot air ballooning and have led to the town being known as 'Australia's Balloon Capital'. A number of companies offer flights over the town while there are events which feature ballooning, including Marti's Balloon Fiesta in April.

The Age of Fishes fossil project looks set to put the town on other maps with a museum being developed and many fossil experts and students involved. Agriculture plays a big part in the town's economy with Pinnaroo Rural Centre, Australia's leading cattle centre, taking a main role and attracting thousands of visitors each year for its educational, scientific and tourism roles. Vineyards, wines, accommodation and gourmet foods also have a big future with establishments like Poppy's and the Galah Guest House becoming involved. For further information: Orange Visitors Centre Byng Street ORANGE NSW Phone: +61 (02) 6361 5226

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