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Oberon Heritage & The Arts

Most early buildings in Oberon were built of pise, wattle and daub or slabs from local timber. Most have not survived. The convent on the corner of Queen and Fleming Streets was built in 1914 for the Sisters of St Joseph who had arrived in Oberon in 1912 to set up the first Roman Catholic school. It is still occupied by the Sisters.

One of Oberon's most significant buildings is Ramsgate, a two-storey Victorian private residence built in 1906 and currently operating as a guesthouse and tea rooms.

The Oberon Museum, once the railway station, has an excellent collection of items of local historical interest.

The Oberon Museum is open from 2 pm to 5 pm every Saturday and at any other time by appointment. Telephone 02 6336 1016.

Amongst Oberon's significant buildings are St Barnabus Anglican Church, built in 1869, and the Art Deco Malachi Gilmore Hall built in 1937 the front of which is now Cobweb Craft Shop. All three are in Oberon Street.

Cobweb Craft Shop, has on display, the 8 Bicentennial Tapestries, designed by artist Kim Rabbidge and hand stitched by over 70 local needle workers.

These works of art depict not only the landscape and primary industry but examples of historic buildings.

The Oberon Council has a collection of woodcraft and paintings purchased at the annual exhibitions. Selections are on display at Reliance Credit Union. Paintings depicting Oberon's early streetscapes by artist Reg Campbell hang in the Oberon RSL Club.

Twenty Four hand painted and appliquéd banners for street display and some for local organisations were made by 40 needle workers. These are on show for special occasions, they were designed and assembled at two workshops held in Oberon under the guidance of textile artist, Tore de Mestre. Several small banners hang in the Oberon Library.

The Daffodil Festival, first held in 1984 has become an annual event taking place on the last weekend in September. Among the attractions at this time are the Annual Anglican Spring Flower Show, Art and Craft Exhibitions, a Market Day, open gardens and special attractions.

Australia Day Celebrations organised by the Oberon Council are held in a casual atmosphere at the Oberon Show Ground, usually with an official ambassador, naturalisation ceremonies and flag raising.

A festive atmosphere is created by the massed display of colourful banners depicting aspects of Oberon, with a program of typically Australian sporting activities following the formalities.
The Oberon Agricultural Show, which celebrated its centenary in 1999 is held over the second weekend in February.

The usual full 2 day program includes livestock, ring events, produce, floral displays, cooking, harness racing, sideshows and novelty attractions. There is all the fun of the fair with plenty of food and beverages available.

Several Artists and Crafts people have studios in the district. Open on a regular basis or by appointment.

Oberon has a strong Needleworkers Group and a Spinners and Weavers Guild, both of which produce high quality work.

Ramsgate Guesthouse
& Tea Rooms

 

St Barnabus Anglican Church

 

Malachi Gilmore Hall