Sandstone

Sandstone is a remote town in the Mid West region of Western Australia, located about 660km north of Perth. Despite its isolation, the town and its surrounding region are home to several nationally or globally recognized annual events that draw visitors from all over Australia and beyond.

The Sandstone Heritage Festival is held annually in August, celebrating the town's rich history and culture. The festival begins with a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony, followed by a range of activities such as guided tours of historic sites, bush poetry and storytelling, live music, art exhibitions, and a farmers market. Visitors can also participate in gold panning, a popular activity in the area, or join a scenic flight over the nearby Mount Magnet Range.

The Sandstone Races, held every September, is another popular event that attracts horse racing enthusiasts from across Australia. The races feature a full day of trackside entertainment, including live music, food and drinks, and a Fashions on the Field competition. Camping is available at the racecourse, making it a great opportunity for a weekend getaway.

For those interested in astronomy, the Sandstone Observatory hosts a Stargazing Weekend every October. The observatory is home to one of the largest privately-owned telescopes in Australia, which visitors can use to see the wonders of the night sky up close. The weekend includes guided tours of the telescope, talks on astronomy and space science, and night-time observing sessions.

In November, the Sandstone Outback Gospel Music Festival brings together Christian music artists from around the country for a weekend of inspiring performances and fellowship. The festival also features a gospel sing-along, workshops on songwriting and worship, and a keynote address by a prominent Christian speaker.

The Sandstone Show, held in March, is a traditional country fair that showcases the best of the region's agriculture, arts, and crafts. Highlights include livestock and produce displays, woodchopping competitions, a pet parade, and displays of vintage machinery. Food vendors offer a wide range of local delicacies, from freshly baked scones to homemade jams and preserves.

Finally, for those who love off-road adventure, the Milly Molly Mandy Off-Road Adventure Challenge is an annual event that tests the skills of 4x4 drivers in a three-day navigational rally through the rugged terrain of the Sandstone region. The rally features a variety of challenges and obstacles, and participants must use all their wits to navigate the course while competing against other teams.

These are just some of the many events that make Sandstone and its surrounding area such a vibrant and exciting place to visit. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, it's no wonder that the region continues to draw visitors from all over the world.