Tamworth Heritage Festival a look back at days gone by in the region

The 2021 Tamworth Heritage Festival will kick into gear on Thursday, April 22, ready for ten days of events in Tamworth, Nundle, and Manilla.

First cab off the rank will be 'Stories Under The Stars' at the botanic gardens and the Tamworth Regional Astronomy and Science Centre, with local Kamilaroi man Len Waters.

He will be describing Tamworth's history before European times, and taking a peek at the stars and what they mean for Indigenous people.

This event will be held on Thursday night from 7pm-8pm.

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"When we look at our local history we go back thousands of years," he said.

"Stories Under The Stars is about the ancient ways of looking at the stars and what the constellations actually mean.

"Looking from our roles and responsibilities, morals, values, principles ... the stars tell us everything."

Then, he'll be joining with local performers for a cultural spectacular on Friday night.

"We're looking forward to a good roll up just to put a perspective on heritage week and to let people know that Aboriginal people and their influence in this region is still there," Mr Waters said.

Locals can learn about murder and ghosts at the Australian Arms Hotel guided tour in Moore Creek, check out chugging steam engines at the Powerstation Museum, or take a heritage walk on Peel Street with the local historical society.

Tamworth councillor Juanita Wilson said it was really important to acknowledge the history of our region.

"The heritage festival for our region is just so important because it gives the whole region an opportunity to learn some rather eclectic things about our history but also to visit places and be part of events that don't normally happen," she said.

"Our history tends to give us a boundary, it shows us where we're from, and I think that helps us to build and create a sense of ownership so the events mainly have been created around that opportunity."

For a full list of events and to book tours, visit the Tamworth Regional Council website.

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