Tag:canola
Cowra, a picturesque town in the Central West region of New South Wales, is a delightful destination to visit year-round. However, springtime brings a unique charm to this vibrant town, with blooming flowers, verdant landscapes, and a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal exploration season. From historic sites and beautiful gardens to cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, Cowra offers a rich tapestry of attractions that come to life in the spring. This guide will take you through the highlights of travelling to Cowra during this enchanting season.
A Burst of Color: Cowra’s Blossoming Gardens
Spring in Cowra is synonymous with colourful blooms and lush greenery, making it a paradise for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.
Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre
One of Cowra’s most iconic attractions is the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre. Designed by renowned landscape architect Ken Nakajima, this 12.5-acre garden is the most extensive Japanese garden in the Southern Hemisphere. Spring is the perfect time to visit, as the garden bursts into life with cherry blossoms, azaleas, and camellias in full bloom.
The garden’s meticulously designed landscapes feature traditional Japanese elements, including a serene lake, cascading waterfalls, and carefully manicured bonsai trees, offering a tranquil escape. Strolling through the winding paths, visitors can experience a sense of peace and tranquillity while learning about Japanese culture through various exhibits and events at the cultural centre.
Cowra Rose Garden
Another must-visit spot in Cowra during spring is the Cowra Rose Garden. Located in the heart of the town, this garden showcases a stunning array of rose varieties, each contributing to a symphony of colours and fragrances. The roses typically reach their peak bloom in October and November, making it an ideal time for a leisurely walk or a relaxing picnic amidst the flowers.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Cowra is steeped in history, with several sites that offer fascinating insights into its past, particularly during World War II.
Cowra Prisoner of War Camp
One of Cowra’s most significant historical sites is the former Prisoner of War (POW) Camp. During World War II, Cowra was the site of a significant POW camp that housed Japanese, Italian, and other prisoners. In August 1944, the camp was the scene of the most significant prison breakout in Australian history, the Cowra Breakout.
The Cowra Breakout took place on 5 August 1944, when 1,104 Japanese prisoners of war escaped from the camp. It was the largest prison escape of World War II and one of the bloodiest.
On the night of the breakout three Australian soldiers were killed and another three were wounded. Privates B.G. Hardy and R. Jones, who were overwhelmed while manning a machine gun post, were posthumously awarded the George Cross. In the following nine days 334 prisoners were retaken. In all, 234 Japanese were killed and 108 wounded.
Australian War Memorial
Today, the site is marked by the Cowra POW Camp Trail, which includes interpretive panels that provide detailed information about the camp and the breakout events. The trail offers a poignant and educational experience, allowing history buffs to delve into this critical chapter of history and gain a deeper understanding of the past.
Australian World Peace Bell
Located in Civic Square, the Australian World Peace Bell is another significant landmark in Cowra. This symbolic bell, made from melted-down coins donated by 106 United Nations member countries, represents a commitment to world peace. Visitors can ring the bell and contemplate the town’s unique connection to peace and reconciliation, mainly through its relationship with Japan.
Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Landscapes
Spring is an excellent time to enjoy Cowra’s beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
Cowra Wine Region
The Cowra wine region is renowned for its award-winning wines, particularly Chardonnay and Shiraz. Several wineries offer cellar door experiences, where visitors can enjoy tastings and tours and learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of the local terroir.
- Kalari Wines: Located on the banks of the Lachlan River, Kalari Wines offers a picturesque setting for wine tasting. Their cellar door features a range of wines, including crisp whites and robust reds, paired with stunning river views.
- Cowra Estate: Known for its sustainable practices and high-quality wines, Cowra Estate is another excellent stop for wine enthusiasts. The cellar door offers tastings of its premium range, and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the flavours and profiles.
Local Dining Experiences
Cowra boasts a variety of dining options that highlight the region’s fresh produce and culinary talent.
- The Quarry Restaurant: Set in a beautifully restored heritage building, The Quarry offers a fine dining experience with a menu emphasising seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s garden provides many of the herbs and vegetables used in their dishes, ensuring fresh and flavorful meals.
- The Imperial Hotel: A historic pub with a contemporary twist, The Imperial Hotel offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring classic pub fare made with local ingredients. It’s a great spot for a casual meal and a drink after a day of exploring.
Spring Events and Festivals
Spring in Cowra is also a time of celebration, with various events and festivals that showcase the town’s vibrant community spirit.
Cowra Spring Garden Festival
The Cowra Spring Garden Festival is a highlight of the season, celebrating the town’s beautiful gardens and green spaces. The festival includes open garden tours, workshops, and a garden competition, providing plenty of inspiration for gardening enthusiasts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see some of Cowra’s most stunning private gardens and gain tips from local experts.
Cowra Wine Show
Another notable event is the Cowra Wine Show, typically in September. The show features various wines from the Cowra region and beyond, with tastings, masterclasses, and awards ceremonies. It’s a great way to discover new wines and learn more about the local wine industry.
Accommodation Options
Cowra offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, from charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels and self-contained cottages.
Bed and Breakfasts
For a cosy and personalised experience, consider staying at one of Cowra’s bed and breakfasts. Some popular choices include:
- Court House Hotel: This historic hotel offers comfortable rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast and explore the town’s attractions on foot.
- Cowra Crest Motel: This conveniently located motel offers modern amenities and friendly service. It provides a comfortable base for exploring the town and its surroundings.
- Kendal Street Cottages: These charming, self-contained cottages offer home comforts in a peaceful garden setting. Each cottage features a fully equipped kitchen, making it an excellent option for more extended stays or those who prefer self-catering.
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
From September to November, spring is the best time to visit Cowra. The vibrant blooms and mild weather make the town’s gardens and landscapes beautiful. Various events and festivals add to the lively atmosphere.
Getting There
Cowra is approximately 300 kilometres west of Sydney, making it a manageable drive for a weekend getaway. The town is also accessible by public transport, with train and bus services connecting it to major cities and regional centres.
Local Tips
- Bring a Camera: Cowra’s gardens and landscapes provide plenty of photo opportunities, especially during spring when everything is blooming.
- Plan Ahead: Some attractions and events may require bookings, particularly during busy periods like the Cowra Spring Garden Festival.
- Dress Appropriately: The weather in spring can be variable, so bring layers and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the gardens and outdoor sites.
Visiting Cowra in spring is a truly enchanting experience. The town’s vibrant gardens, rich history, and welcoming community create a perfect destination for a memorable getaway. Whether you’re strolling through the blossoming Japanese garden, exploring the historical POW Camp, or savouring local wines and cuisine, Cowra offers a unique and delightful travel experience. So pack your bags, head to this charming town, and immerse yourself in the beauty and warmth of Cowra in spring.
Nestled in the rolling hills of New South Wales, Canowindra is a charming town that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Canowindra is an excellent destination at any time of year, but visiting during the canola season (typically between August and September) provides a particularly magical experience. The landscape transforms into a sea of vibrant yellow, creating a stunning backdrop for exploring this quaint town. This guide will take you through the highlights of travelling to Canowindra during canola season, from the golden fields to the town’s historical and cultural attractions.
The Golden Fields of Canowindra
During canola season, one of the most breathtaking aspects of visiting Canowindra is the vast fields of blooming canola. The bright yellow flowers create a striking contrast against the green countryside and clear blue skies, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Best Spots for Viewing Canola Fields
To fully appreciate the beauty of the canola fields, take a scenic drive along the country roads surrounding Canowindra. Some of the best spots for viewing and photographing the fields include:
- Belubula Way: This scenic route offers panoramic countryside views and expansive canola fields. The rolling hills covered in bright yellow blooms create a picturesque scene that’s perfect for photography.
- Gaskill Street: While mainly known for its historical buildings, the outskirts of Gaskill Street lead to beautiful rural landscapes with canola fields in full bloom.
- Cargo Road: A popular route for wine enthusiasts, Cargo Road also passes through stunning canola fields. Combining a wine tour with canola viewing makes for a delightful day trip.
Photography Tips
To capture the best photos of the canola fields, consider the following tips:
- Golden Hour: The soft, warm light during sunrise and sunset enhances the yellow hues of the canola flowers, creating stunning images.
- Drones: If you have a drone, use it to capture aerial shots of the canola fields. The bird’s-eye view provides a unique perspective of the landscape.
- Foreground Interest: To add depth and interest to your photos, include fences, old barns, or trees in the foreground.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before heading out. A clear, sunny day will make the canola fields look their best, while cloudy skies can add drama to your shots.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
While the canola fields are a highlight, Canowindra is rich in history and culture and offers plenty of attractions to explore.
Ballooning Over Canowindra
Canowindra is renowned as the “Ballooning Capital of Australia,” and experiencing a hot air balloon flight over the canola fields is an unforgettable adventure. The sight of the golden fields from above, stretching as far as the eye can see, is truly breathtaking. We took a sunrise flight with Balloon Joy Flights during our visit. Balloon flights provide a unique perspective of the landscape. Flights typically occur at sunrise or sunset, when the winds are calm, and the light is perfect for viewing the canola fields. Booking your flight in advance is recommended, as canola season is a popular time for ballooning in Canowindra.
What to Expect
A typical balloon flight lasts about an hour, but the entire experience, including setting up and packing away the balloon, can take three to four hours. Participants usually meet before dawn, and after a safety briefing, they watch as the balloon is inflated. Once airborne, you’ll drift gently over the countryside, with the pilot pointing out landmarks and sharing interesting facts about the area. Upon landing, a traditional champagne breakfast rounded off our experience in style.
Local Wineries and Dining
Canowindra is in a burgeoning wine region known for its boutique wineries and exceptional local produce. During canola season, the vineyards are surrounded by yellow blooms, creating a stunning setting for wine tasting and dining.
Wineries to Visit
- Rosnay Organic Wines: This family-owned vineyard produces organic wines, olives, and figs. The cellar door offers tastings and tours.
- Windowrie Estate: Known for its award-winning wines, Windowrie Estate provides a charming cellar-door experience. The picturesque vineyard makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine.
- Wallington Wines: Specializing in handcrafted wines, Wallington Wines offers personalized tastings in a beautiful rural setting. The vineyard’s focus on quality and sustainability is evident in every sip.
Dining in Canowindra
Canowindra’s culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its agricultural bounty. Many of the town’s restaurants and cafes emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their menus.
- Finns Store: Located in a beautifully restored heritage building, Finns Store offers contemporary Australian cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
- Taste Canowindra: Combining a restaurant, wine bar, and art gallery, Taste Canowindra provides a unique dining experience. Enjoy gourmet dishes paired with local wines while surrounded by works of art.
- The Old Vic Inn: This historic pub offers a cosy atmosphere and a menu featuring hearty, classic dishes made with local produce. It’s an excellent place for a casual meal and a drink.
Exploring the Outdoors
Beyond the canola fields, Canowindra offers plenty of outdoor activities and exploration opportunities.
Bushwalking and Wildlife
The Canowindra Nature Reserve is a popular spot for bushwalking, with trails that wind through woodlands, along riverbanks, and up gentle hills. The reserve has various wildlife, including kangaroos, echidnas, and numerous bird species. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside.
Fishing and Boating
The nearby Lachlan River provides opportunities for fishing and boating. Anglers can try to catch Murray cod, golden perch, and other freshwater species. The river’s peaceful surroundings make it an excellent place for a relaxing day on the water.
Accommodation Options
Canowindra offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, from charming bed and breakfasts to self-contained cottages and historic inns.
Bed and Breakfasts
For a cosy and personalized experience, consider staying at one of Canowindra’s bed and breakfasts. Some popular choices include:
- The Old Vic Inn: We stayed here and found it fabulous. This historic inn offers comfortable rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and a central location. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast and explore the town’s attractions on foot.
- Gaskill Street Cottage: A charming, self-contained cottage in the heart of Canowindra. The cottage offers all the comforts of home and a peaceful garden setting.
- Montrose House is a beautifully restored heritage home offering elegant rooms and a warm welcome. It is known for its exceptional hospitality and delicious breakfasts.
Farm Stays
For a unique and immersive experience, consider staying at a farm stay. These accommodations allow you to experience rural life and enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside.
- Rosnay Organic Wines: In addition to its vineyard, Rosnay offers farm stay accommodation in a cosy, self-contained cottage. Guests can enjoy farm tours, wine tastings, and peaceful surroundings.
- Eddy’s of Canowindra is a working farm offering comfortable accommodations and a chance to experience farm life. Guests can participate in farm activities and explore the beautiful property.
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Canola season, typically from August to September, is the best time to visit Canowindra to see the fields in full bloom. The weather is mild, and the countryside is most beautiful during these months.
Getting There
Canowindra is approximately 300 kilometres west of Sydney, making it a manageable drive for a weekend getaway. The town is also accessible by public transport, with train and bus services connecting it to major cities and regional centres.
Local Tips
- Respect the Fields: While the canola fields are beautiful, they are also working farms. Be respectful of private property and stick to designated viewing areas.
- Dress Appropriately: The weather can be cool in the early morning and evening, so bring layers and comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a Camera: The vibrant canola fields and picturesque landscapes provide plenty of photo opportunities.
Visiting Canowindra during canola season is a truly magical experience. The golden fields, the town’s rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming community create a perfect destination for a memorable getaway. Whether exploring the scenic countryside, floating above the landscape in a hot air balloon, or savouring the flavours of local wines and cuisine, Canowindra offers a unique and enchanting travel experience. So pack your bags, set out on a golden journey, and discover the beauty and charm of Canowindra in canola season.
The Goulburn Valley Canola season has begun, signalling the arrival of spring. The fields are bursting with vibrant yellow blooms, creating a stunning display. You can’t miss the beautiful yellow flowers that adorn the countryside when you travel from Melbourne to Ballarat or up to the ski fields. The fields in this region provide breathtaking views, particularly during the flowering season when the landscape is blanketed with these vibrant yellow flowers.
Goulburn Valley Canola Fields
Canola is a popular crop in several regions of Australia. However, canola is particularly prevalent in Victoria in the Goulburn Valley region. This region is well-known for its fertile soil and favourable weather conditions, making it ideal for growing canola and other crops. It’s home to numerous large and small-scale farmers specialising in growing canola. Other popular areas for canola cultivation also include the Murray Valley and the Riverina, which boast plentiful water resources and thriving farming communities, making them ideal locations for canola production.
Driving the Goulburn Valley
With a friend visiting me for a few days, we decided to take a mini road trip through the Goulburn Valley to get as many canola fields as possible. Starting in Nagambie (check out the fields in O’Dwyers, Vickers and Nook Roads), we drove to Dookie and had a late breakfast at the Dookie Emporium. It’s a cafe/antique shop, and while the coffee was great, I don’t recommend the food. Or the service. Do yourself a favour and pack a picnic basket!
We photographed the Dookie poppy tree (opposite the Dookie Emporium) and a couple of fields near Tallis Winery before heading to Katamatite to check out the new silo, then Pfeiffer Wines and ended our day in Corowa. After breakfast in Corowa the next morning, we headed to Chiltern, then the Shiraz Republic, before returning home.
Goulburn Valley Locations
- Shepparton: A significant agricultural hub surrounded by rich and fertile farmland. This region is particularly popular for canola photography during the flowering season when the fields are ablaze with yellow blooms.
- Nagambie: The charming town of Nagambie is located in the heart of Northern Victoria’s agricultural region. Rolling hills and fertile farmland surround the area. Canola fields provide breathtaking views during the flowering season.
- Dookie: Located 30km from Shepparton is the tiny town of Dookie. Mt Major and Mt Saddleback are prominent landscape features, as are the rich red volcanic soil, historic buildings and other natural features, including a river, creeks and box ironbark forest.
- Shiraz Republic: Situated at 507 Hamblin Road, Cornella, the field is open Friday to Monday, 11 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. The Shiraz Republic is an award-winning winery and cellar door with a large canola field adjoining the Winery/Brewery. This particular canola field permits visitors to walk through it. However, an entry fee of $10 per person is required to enter the Canola Walk. There is no restriction on the duration of your stay, but please be mindful of other photographers. During our visit, a young couple who were taking Instagram photos had monopolised the truck for approximately an hour.
Tips for Canola Photography
Timing: The best time to take breathtaking pictures of Victoria’s canola fields is during their flowering period when they are covered in gorgeous yellow flowers. Although the timing and region depend on weather conditions, you can generally expect the flowering period to start mid-August, be in full bloom by mid-September and finish by mid-October. Additionally, the golden hour – which occurs just before sunrise or just after sunset – is an ideal time to capture striking images of canola fields, as it offers the perfect lighting for photography.
Angle and Perspective: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the scale and beauty of the canola fields. Consider shooting from above or below or using a telephoto lens to focus on individual flowers.
Use of light and shadows: Pay attention to the lighting conditions when taking photos. The overhead sun can be harsh and create unflattering shadows. On the other hand, the side light is softer and can highlight the texture and detail of the canola plants.
Composition: Use leading lines and patterns in the canola fields to create visually appealing compositions. Experiment with different framing techniques, such as the rule of thirds, to make your photos more engaging.
Weather: Inclement weather can add interesting elements to canola photography, such as mist, fog, or rain. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be ready to take advantage of these opportunities.
Post-processing: Experiment with post-processing techniques to enhance the colours and contrast in your photos. Consider using filters to bring out the yellow tones in the canola flowers.
Just go!
Capturing the beauty of the canola fields in Northern Victoria during the flowering season is a unique and rewarding experience for any photographer. The rolling hills, vast expanses of golden fields, and picturesque countryside provide a stunning backdrop for capturing the essence of this region’s agricultural heritage.
So don’t hesitate; grab your camera and head out to capture the beauty of the canola fields. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Northern Victoria’s landscape than through the lens of a camera.
You’re bound to capture visually stunning images with the right preparation, a keen eye for detail, and a little creativity. So go ahead, take the leap, and see what you can capture!
Spring means Canola! As far as the eye can see, Victoria’s amazing fields of gold are blooming. Also in flower are fields from Western Australia’s Wheat Belt, South Australia’s Clare Valley, NSW’s Riverina and Central West, and Victoria’s South West are ablaze with blooming yellow Canola fields. Blooms are at their best from mid-September through to mid-October. The yellow blooms attract many Instagrammers and photographers each year, and it’s not hard to see why, with brilliant, bright yellow flowers set against colourful Australian landscapes.
This year in Victoria, growing conditions have been perfect, and farmers are gearing up for a bumper harvest. But, with this year’s lockdowns, I would hazard a guess that farmers are also very relieved that those same Instagrammers and photographers can’t trample their fields looking for the perfect shot.
Canola (Brassica napus L.) is an oilseed crop created through plant crossbreeding. Scientists in Canada developed an edible version of the rapeseed plant, which — on its own — harbors toxic compounds called erucic acid and glucosinolates. The name “canola” comes from “Canada” and “ola,” denoting oil
Healthline
While no cooking oil is “healthy”, Canola is the world’s healthiest cooking oil, second only to Olive Oil. Our bodies require fat – but some fats are healthier than others, and Canola provides more ‘good’ fats than bad. It’s a rich source of Vitamin E, is cholesterol-free and contains the least saturated fat than many other common cooking oils. Canola also has many non-food uses, such as biodiesel and bioplastics. In the US, it is also used in baby formula. In addition, the Canola meal – the part left over after the seeds are crushed and oil extracted, is used for animal feed, pet food and fertiliser.
the canola plant
Canola is a herbaceous plant growing between 1 to 2 metres in height. The leaves are oval-shaped and hairy at the edges, with small yellow flowers that are a rich source of nectar that attracts bees. The flowers are capable of self-pollination – when cross-pollination is not available. The seed-containing pod is similar to a pea pod but five times smaller. Each pod contains 20 black or brown round seeds and contains 40% oil. It takes 22.5kg to make 10 litres of oil
Two types of protein are extracted from the Canola meal – these are used industrially in sports drinks and protein-enriched foods. Compounds isolated from canola are used in the cosmetic industry for soaps, lipsticks, anti-aging creams and moisturizing lotions. Two types of resins isolated from canola are used in the manufacture of ink
Locations
Where are these amazing fields of gold? In Victoria, you will find canola around Little River and Bellarine Peninsula, in Sunbury, along the Western Highway, heading towards the Grampians, Ballarat, Rokewood and one of the largest fields in the area, near Lexton. They also line the Goulburn Valley Highway to Shepparton and are plentiful around Nagambie and Dookie.
Safely Photographing Canola
- Look, but don’t touch! – Walking on or among the fields causes crop damage
- Don’t enter private property without permission – the perfect selfie does not justify trespassing
- Only pull over where it is safe to do so
Tips for Photographing Canola
- If you want wide-sweeping vistas, a wide-angle lens will be needed. However, if you don’t own a wide-angle, either stand further back to include more of the scene – or shoot a pano.
- Another good lens to have on you is a zoom – the fields rarely have public access, so standing behind the fence, you will need a zoom lens to get closeups of the flowers. (All of my shots were taken with a zoom lens)
- Most fields have roads or paths quite close, so you can easily shoot over the fence. If you can’t get close enough, pull out the zoom
- Use a slower shutter speed for creative blur if it’s breezy
- Use a polarizing filter to enhance contrast
Best Weather And Time of Day
- Look for side lighting – and avoid backlit scenes
- It’s spring, which means it’s windier than at other times of the year. Try to pick a still day or enjoy the view while you wait for the wind gusts to stop.
- Partly cloudy days will give you lovely sunshine, so the canola flowers pop, but also ensure the sky is interesting with some puffy clouds. Dark skies of approaching rain – but the sun still shining are fantastic. But rare 🙁
- Sunrise and sunset also work great. Either use an ND Grad to bring the sky down or bracket your shots
- Look for tractor tracks for leading lines and trees to pull the eye into the photograph.
- Foreground interest – gates and fences
- Shoot at F8 and above to get front-to-back sharpness
- However, if you are super close to the canola, focus stack to avoid foreground blur
NOTE: An update to this post can be found on Goulburns Golden Blanket
Good luck with your hunting the Canola, Victoria’s Fields of Gold.