COLLECTOR

Imagine a vegetable that has to be cut with a chainsaw or towering bizarre sculptures with Gothic overtones and hidden messages. Add historic buildings, a friendly welcome and an active community to these unique attractions and you have the fascinating town of Collector.

The humble pumpkin takes pride of place each May during the festival devoted to this vegetable. Prizes are given for the biggest and the most unusual pumpkins and, of course, the best-tasting pumpkin scones.

Scarecrow competitions, wacky activities and stalls featuring local food, wines, arts and crafts make this a festival for all the senses.

Allow lots of time to treat your tastebuds in Collector. The hotel was built in 1860 and named after the notorious bushrangers who plagued its history. A magnificent display of guns and swords, sketches and a classic portrait of Ben Hall provide a terrific atmosphere for a hearty counter meal and a cold drink.

Every Saturday, the hotel’s restaurant puts on a fine dining experience, prepared by an award winning chef. There is always something new and exciting on the menu so make sure you book in advance.

Enjoy the taste sensation of Lynwood Cafe, which specializes in combining creative flair with wholesome ingredients to bring you delicious food. Sit outside under the shady trees or eat beside a cosy fire in the 170-year-old cottage. A special room inside the cafe is devoted to jam, named after jam and sells jam. The preserves are made from locally grown produce.

Collector Inn General Store is the original Collector Inn opened around 1824. Today, besides selling general groceries, fuel, breads, cakes and other home-made goodies, the store incorporates the Lemon & Onion Cafe, which provides country style meals including its now famous hamburgers and spicy bread pudding. You will also find lots of information about the shire - accommodation, attractions and where to eat.