Nearby

An eclectic collection of 28 framed photographs from the talented members of Newbridge Camera Club has opened at Olde Bridge Gallery in Newbridge. It's the first exhibition from the club, who battled through their first year in operation using Zoom meetings (thanks to COVID-19). You'll have a chance to check out macros, still life, nature, wildlife, landscapes, and travel images. The gallery is open from 10am to 4pm Saturdays and Sundays, with exhibition on display until the end of January. 1 Caloola St, Newbridge.

Breast Screening

At home

Have you been somebody who has put off having medical checks while COVID-19 was at its peak? If you're due for a breast check then the BreastScreen NSW mobile van will in Blayney from January 5-18 at the council carpark behind the Blayney Community Centre . With breast cancer the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in the state it's important to get yourself checked out. A mammogram every two years takes just 20 minutes and could save your live. Got questions? You can read more at breastscreen.nsw.gov.au. Blayney Community Centre, 41 Church Street.

Blayney markets

Plan ahead

Have you checked out the changes to the Blayney Rotary Markets? If not, put it in your calendar for February 20. With the affects from COVID-19 lingering, it was time to help the stallholders try new ways to bring in the crowds (keeping safe, of course). So, what you'll find is an increased variety of stalls selling a wider selection of goods. And so, drum roll please, a name change from Farmer's Market to Blayney Rotary Markets. Carrington Park, Blayney, NSW, third Sunday, from 8.30 am.

Lasers light up

New Year's Eve

This New Year's Eve we'll be watching lasers in Orange as (hopefully) a less turbulent 2021 rolls in. Traditional fireworks have been shelved. A 15 minute laser show will provide a more modern and, in a hot, dry country, safer approach than fireworks. You'll also find sound and visual elements on the to-watch list. Grab a picnic blanket (don't forget the nibbles) and find a spot at Wade Park for the family-friendly, alcohol-free event on December 31 from 6.30pm. The main event kicks off at 8.30pm. Tickets are $9.50 at Eventbrite or Light Up Orange 2020's Facebook page. Proceeds go to Give Me 5 for Kids.

The Long Road

At home + road trip

Explore your own backyard this summer by taking a road trip. You can easily do a four day staycation. Head to Canowindra (balloon trip anybody) visiting some wineries along the way, then to Cowra for a peaceful interlude at the Japanese gardens. Spend time exploring the National Trust listed villages of Blayney, Millthorpe and Carcoar before motoring up to Bathurst and trying your hand at driving Mount Panorama. Find out more at visitnsw.com