Top 5 Reasons Why Preserving and Celebrating Our Bathurst Heritage Matters.

In 1823, more than two centuries ago, The Grange property and its origins began. This farmstead property was only the second granted land in Bathurst, the oldest regional settlement in Australia. Today, the Jones family who own The Grange, still pays homage to the artisan ways of the 1800s, running a fully operational Distillery and Farm open to the public. 

The Grange heritage is a significant part of the Bathurst region's history. It is one of only two privately held state heritage properties in Bathurst, the other being Holy Trinity, owned by the Anglican church. Visitors to the distillery often ask its owners why heritage is important to the day-to-day business operations and what it is like living and working on a unique heritage property.

To help explain this we’ve put together our top 5 reasons why we care and love our heritage story (and why you should care too!)

1. Cultural Identity

Two hundred years on, traditional practices are part of everyday life at The Grange. This handcrafted and artisan ethos is a cultural identity shared by its owners and within the wider community. There is a sense of pride and care from crafting regional produce on our farm and our distillery. Products made here serve as symbols of heritage, traditions, and values that have shaped society over time and have the potential to be a compasshead for a more sustainable future.

2. Location & Providence 

The Grange like so many heritage properties has a unique location. The settlement was carefully selected. There were very few limitations on the whereabouts to build and farm so the original owners "West Family" laid foundations on the hillside not too far from Fish River, surrounded by plains of some of the best farmland in the region. Today, that farmland is still used to grow grain for distilling and raising prize-winning livestock.

3. Architectural and Design Significance

The Grange heritage property is notable for its architectural and design qualities unique to regional farm estates of the 1800s. With its thick walls, separate kitchen and living spaces, and a wrap-around verandah symmetrical Georgian facade. This style is the earliest surviving example of its kind in Australia. Even its more modern buildings on The Grange incorporate heritage artifacts into their design. The distillery windows come from the 120-year-old ANZ bank in Young NSW.

4. Preservation of History

State-listed heritage properties often represent important chapters in national history. This is because The Grange was associated with significant events, people, and cultural movements. Governor Macquarie, George Evans, Charles Darwin, and in more modern times, Brett Whiteley are all visitors to The Grange. Preserving the property creates a tangible connection to these people and these moments in time. 

5. Community Pride and Sense of Place

The Grange property evokes a sense of pride and belonging within our community. It serves as a focal point for community events, celebrations, and activities, fostering a sense of shared heritage and identity among residents. Our Gin, Whisky, and other spirits are served all through the town and regional pubs. The closest to The Grange is the O'Connell Hotel, established in 1865.

Bathurst Grange will be at Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail on 16th and 17th March demonstrating the artisan techniques used on the farm distillery. Come celebrate our heritage trades with us. For tickets, visit https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/bathurst-heritage-trades-trail/