WALCHA’S welcome mat is well worn, with tourists and day trippers enjoying the town’s outdoor art, good cafes and quirky shops.
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“We’re a town abundant in art, autumn splendour and the gateway to the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park,” tourism manager Susie Crawford said.
Now people further afield are beginning to take advantage of Walcha’s wonders and locals are keen to offer a warm welcome.
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Businesses, shops and eateries line Walcha’s busy Fitzroy and Derby Streets, also the address for the Walcha Gallery of Art.
“The gallery exhibits and sells some quality modern art of New England’s from both within the region and further afield but with a lot of talent to draw from locally,” Ms Crawford said.
“The National Parks, gorges and waterfalls are a must see on your next visit, the wild gorge country up here rivals the Kimberley and it’s right on our doorstep.”
Since moving to Walcha 10 years ago, she has seen the town thrive.
“For example, the Open Air Gallery now has more than 50 sculptures; it enhances Walcha’s beautiful streetscape.” Businesses have forged ahead and a growing number of artisans call the town home.
Also, Metalsmith Erika Syrjanen started the Antipodean Tynker two years ago and exhibits hand-made motorcycles in a steampunk bespoke atmosphere.
"We also sell moving sculptures and smaller, metalsmith works, some jewellery and small boxes and blacksmith lamps," Ms Syrjanen said.
The Commercial Hotel has just been renovated and offers comfortable accommodation.
“Walcha is a magnet for creative types,” Ms Crawford said.
The township is gearing up for Opera at Langford House, to be held on Saturday, April 1.
Visitors can bring a chair, rug and picnic or purchase a ticket for high tea while watching Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin.
The town’s reputation as a tourism and business hotspot is being felt further afield.
It’s also a busy town for business, according to Patterson, Byfied and Bryen principal James Levingston.
The practice was established in 1950 and now employs three solicitors and up to five administrative staff.
Mr Levingston took over in 1977 and says client relations are vital to the business.
“We have been a part of this community for many, many years, contact with clients is essential,” Mr Levingston said.
Visit walchansw.com.au for more information.
