URGENT UPDATE: The Bilpin community is gearing up for a landmark event on Sunday, November 30, 2025, as it celebrates the rich natural and cultural heritage of Wollemi National Park. The highly anticipated launch of Wollemi Walks from Bilpin – Book 2 will take place at the Bilpin District Hall, starting with afternoon tea at 2:30 PM followed by the book launch program from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
This event promises to be a vibrant mix of presentations, music, and storytelling, showcasing Bilpin’s breathtaking environment and fascinating history. The launch is expected to draw both locals and visitors, making this a must-attend celebration.
The new 596-page volume, Book 2, builds on the success of its predecessor released in 2024, which introduced 28 newly mapped bushwalks. This latest edition unveils an additional 28 never-before-published bushwalks and includes a concise history of Bilpin as well as a detailed account of the local logging and sawmilling industry. Lavishly illustrated with hundreds of color photographs, maps, and sketches, it encapsulates the spirit of discovery and connection that defines the Bilpin and Wollemi landscape.
Authors Yuri Bolotin, Michael Keats, and Brian Fox have tirelessly documented the region’s diverse ecosystems, from dramatic gorges and creeks to the remnants of both Aboriginal heritage and early European settlement. Their dedication offers readers a unique glimpse into one of New South Wales’ most captivating areas.
The afternoon event will feature several engaging presentations. Ros Allatt, a Bilpin resident and daughter of local historian Meredyth Hungerford, will share insights into her mother’s extensive research on Bilpin’s history, a cornerstone of the new book. Additionally, botanist Greg Bourke will discuss the forest diversity of the Bilpin area.
Attendees can also look forward to an interactive session titled Bilpin Timbergetting Tales, where local storytellers including Bill Johnson, Ron Ness, Maine Powell, Jim Newton, and Lionel Buckett will share their own experiences, facilitated by author Brian Fox. To cap off the event, a unique Percussion Storytelling Performance will be presented by Cory Hills from the USA, followed by Bolotin’s insights on the hidden landscapes that inspired the Wollemi Walks series.
This celebration is not just about a book; it is an opportunity for the community to connect with their heritage and the stunning landscapes that surround them. The event is expected to foster a deeper appreciation for Bilpin’s environment and history, offering emotional resonance for attendees.
Event Details:
– **Venue:** Bilpin District Hall, Bells Line of Road, Bilpin
– **Afternoon Tea:** 2:30 PM
– **Book Launch:** 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
– **RSVP Required:** Email [email protected] (limited places available)
– **More Information:** www.bigci.org
The launch of Wollemi Walks from Bilpin – Book 2 is a pivotal moment for the community, revealing the beauty, complexity, and rich history of the Wollemi region. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a celebration that will resonate for years to come—mark your calendars and secure your spot today!
