Weekends of fun to celebrate the man who wrote Waltzing Matilda

Orange is well known for its annual food and wine festivals but the Central Western New South Wales city also hosts a celebration in homage to poet Banjo Paterson, who wrote Australia's unofficial national anthem Waltzing Matilda. The first Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival celebrated the anniversary of the poet's 150th birthday in 2014 - and 2018 will mark the fifth such celebration. Bush poetry, school performances, professional entertainers, markets, golf, barbecues and camp-oven cooking are some of the attractions over the weekend of February 16-18. There will also be the opportunity for community members and visitors to Orange to show their skills in poetry recital and musical entertainment. The Orange region will also host indigenous performances and cultural tours, insights into local history and the cool -climate food and wine of the region. Highlights include Anne Kirkpatrick putting Paterson poems to music at Yeoval, the Banjo Paterson original poetry competition, a night market, a Banjo Paterson breakfast, a brunch and lunch and an opportunity to visit the Banjo Paterson....more than a Poet Museum. There will also be additional events on the weekend of February 23-25. For more information visit www.brandorange.com.au/orange-nsw/banjo-paterson-festival/