Parkes

Saturday was a rest day so on sunny day with the temperature once again in the 30s, we drove to Parkes to visit the Parkes Observatory - also known as The Dish. Parkes is 120 kilometres south of Dubbo.

We watched three short 3D films on astronomy and about the work of the observatory.

We also looked at the various exhibitions including equipment used to monitor the first landing of a man on the moon in  1969.

There were also exhibits to view in the grounds including two whispering dishes. This dish was near the museum entrance.

[Last three photos from Parkes Observatory website]

Opposite the observatory hay had been bailed ready for collection.

The next stop was the Henry Parkes Museum which is  next to the information centre in Parkes. At the museum, Rosemary, the attendant on duty, found me a map showing the location of The Troffs - the property once owned by George Hutton.

There are two acres of land with sheds containing a variety of farm machinery and vehicles at the museum.

A display about the blacksmiths in the town was being set up in time for the next Elvis Presley Festival in January. 

Parkes has an Elvis Presley Festival each January.

Information boards publicising the annual festival.

We found another model rhino near the information centre.

Several days later on the return journey to Melbourne we had breakfast at the Parkes Coffee Pot - egg and bacon rolls and hot drinks- before continuing our journey.