13 May 2025
Bathurst & Backroads Website Launches with Star Ambassadors to Showcase the Best of the Region
The Bathurst region is stepping confidently into the national spotlight with the launch of Bathurst & Backroads — a dynamic new digital platform that brings the culture, creativity and character of this unique part of New South Wales to life.
Backed by high-profile ambassadors Edwina Bartholomew and Matt Moran, the initiative offers a compelling invitation to Australians to slow down and rediscover the charm and richness of regional life — from artisan food producers and boutique stays to historic townships and breathtaking backroad journeys.
Created by Bathurst-based organisation Elevate, Bathurst & Backroads is more than a travel guide. It’s a storytelling platform that captures the true spirit of the region through immersive journeys and local insights — a love letter to the people and places that make Bathurst and its surrounds remarkable.
"I have had a long connection with Bathurst since arriving in the region as a young university student,” says Edwina Bartholomew, Sunrise presenter and proud regional advocate. “It's been so wonderful to see the region flourish since that time and we are thrilled to be building an accommodation business, Saltash Farm in the beautiful heritage town of Carcoar. “
I had a brilliant time exploring Bathurst and its backroads with Matt. Now everyone can enjoy the same itineraries and secret stop-overs that make this region so special." Celebrated chef and sustainability advocate Matt Moran also brings his passion for the land and local produce to the campaign.
“As a fourth-generation farmer with deep roots in the region, this part of the world means a lot to me — it’s where I own Moran Family Farm and The Rockley Pub. The pub’s the heart of the town. It’s more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a meeting spot for locals and a destination for visitors. We’ve got big plans in the works to really revitalise it.
There’s a real sense of pride out here — in the land, the produce, and the people. Bathurst & Backroads captures that beautifully.
” At the heart of the platform are the Story Trails:
The trails are designed to be explored at your own pace — whether by self-drive, guided tour, walking or cycling — offering a flexible and immersive way to experience the diversity of the Bathurst region. These trails connect visitors with layers of cultural history, landscape and experiences across five key areas:
- Town Trail
- Oberon Trail
- Blayney Trail
- Bathurst Plains & Sofala Trail
- Lithgow Trail
Each trail invites travellers to take the scenic route (backroads) — discovering boutique vineyards, historic pubs, country bakeries, contemporary galleries, immersive experiences, and the warm hospitality that defines the region.
“Bathurst & Backroads is about celebrating the everyday brilliance of regional life — the passion, persistence and creativity of our communities,” said Hamish Keith, Chair of Elevate.
“It’s a tribute to the people who make this place so special — from bakers and brewers to farmers, artisans and storytellers. It’s an open invitation for all Australians to discover what we’ve always known: something remarkable lives here.”
The website launch marks a bold new chapter for regional storytelling — and a future-focused vision for Bathurst and its surrounding villages as a cultural and culinary destination of national significance.
“Elevate is about our people and what they’ve achieved through struggle, hard work and ingenuity,” said Rhonda Taylor, CEO of Elevate.
“With Bathurst & Backroads, we’re expressing the soul of our region — helping people connect with its heartbeat. This platform tells our story in an honest and beautiful way, and invites others to be part of it.”
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Explore the website and discover the stories, trails and experiences of the Bathurst region at: 👉 www.bathurstandbackroads.com.au
Media Contact: Natalie Middleton | natalie@middletoncorp.com
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Current Partners – Elevate Bathurst as at 13 May 2025
Elevate Partners
- BNB Made Easy
- McDowells Herbal
- Steele & Co
- Tablelands Builders
- Raine & Horne
- Johnston Bros Hospitality Group
Bathurst & Backroads Partners
- Dejorja
- Bishop’s Court Boutique Hotel
- Bake, Table & Tea
- Abercrombie House
- Winburndale Wines
- RedGround Australia
- Renzaglia Wines
- Littlebourne Guest House
- Gorgeousness (both stores)
- Bootleg Dining
- Hub Espresso Bar & Eatery
- Reckless Brewing
- The George Hotel
- Oakhill Estate
- Norma Joan Lounge Bar & Eatery
- Kenzell Farm
Foundation Members
- O’Connell Pub
- Tarana Pub
- Rydal Pub
- Bathurst Grange Distillery
- Wilga Station & The Wool Store
- Rockley Pub
- Saltash Far