14 Jan 2026
’Bathurst is Cool’, Literally - New Summer Campaign Launched
A bold new destination campaign ‘Bathurst is Cool’ has been launched to entice visitors to the region for the rest of Summer. A wink to the region’s renaissance with new creatives and culinary experiences, the campaign features travel offers and itineraries to explore Australia’s cool inland alternative.
The playful campaign for Bathurst Regional Council highlights Bathurst’s authenticity with swims in natural watering holes, picnics by the river, sundowners at historic buildings and meeting the locals at hidden rooftop bars.
Australia’s oldest inland European settlement, famous for its heritage swagger and frontier spirit, is buzzing with fresh energy. Beyond the iconic Mount Panorama, a new wave of chefs, makers and tourism experiences are redefining the Bathurst landscape, just 2.5hours drive from Sydney.
There are 20 ‘Bathurst is Cool’ special offers, created by local accommodation providers, food and drink venues and experience operators – think luxury farm stays, star-gazing domes and historic estates. Stay at Simmone Logue’s Essington Park, Matt Moran’s Rockley Pub, newly opened Littlebourne Guesthouse, Wilga Station, Starscape Australia’s StarDome, Bishops Court Estate and for families Bathurst Goldfields Resort.
Together, they encourage longer stays, deeper exploration and a cooler way to experience summer in the Central West. There’s also a new Redground Australia truffle tasting experience at the cellar door, a behind the scenes tour at Rock Forest Vineyard, and dining deals at the George Hotel.
Matt Moran, chef, restaurateur and owner of the Rockley Pub, said: “Summer out here is relaxed and genuinely welcoming - it’s the kind of place that keeps drawing you back. I’m excited to see this new summer story being told in a way that truly reflects its character.”
In Bathurst old streetscapes now hide rooftop bars and art-laced laneways, farm sheds hum with fresh creative energy, nights are crisp, the gin is botanical, and the people are cooler than the climate.
Swim the local favourites at Flat Rock, Fish River, Wallaby Rocks, Turon River or Chifley Dam, then wander through heritage villages such as Sofala, Rockley and Hill End before pulling up a stool in a legendary country pub.
This Summer sip, stroll and soak up the region’s culture – from music and markets to leafy gardens and forest trails. Or turn up the heat from 13-15 February with the Bathurst 12-Hour.
Explore and book ‘Bathurst is Cool’ at www.bathurstregion.com.au
-Ends-
Images – a selection of Bathurst is Cool images and new tourism experiences click here
Media Contact: For more information or hosted media visits:
Gabrielle Brewer M: 0419 985 528
E: gabrielle@gabriellebrewer.com