It's time to get the creative juices flowing with entries open for the annual Banjo Paterson Writing Awards. It's the 30th anniversary of the short story or poetry competition that honours the great Aussie writer (and favourite son of Orange). The works must have Australian content. Entries can be emailed or posted in by 5pm on April 23. Entry forms from cwl.nsw.gov.au or on 6393 8120. Email entries to competition@cwl.nsw.go.au accompanied by an entry form.

When the Under Western Skies Festival kicks off next month it will be reintroducing the 2000s pop-punk music scene (think Green Day, Blink 182) with Catnip Kaiser in the mix. They join Andy Nelson, The Safety of Life at Sea, Thirsty Merc, Clinton Hoy and a raft of other great acts over three days. Under Western Skies, March 18-21. Check out the fill gig list and bookings at uwsfest.com.

The Nobel Winner for literature will be in conversation about his upcoming novel Klara and the Sun. A rare chance to hear him in conversation and put questions to the renowned author as part of a globally streamed event. An evening with Kazuo Ishiguro, March 3, 6am AEDT, 75 minutes. Tickets eventbrite.com.au.

The Central West Caravan, Camping and Outdoor Expo is headed back to Borenore. Showcased will be luxury caravans, camper trailers, camping gear, 4WD accessories, camping gear, camp oven cooking and kid's corner (with jumping castle). March 5-7, Orange Field Day Site. Check out event website for bookings.

Orange Open Air is going all out for its screening of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert at Philip Shaw Winery with a dress code advertised as "fabulous". Drag queen superstar Miss Betty Confetti perform at the Mardi-Gras-themed screening which will also include chef-prepared nibbles and a DJ set. Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, 18+ screening, $65, February 26 from 6.30pm, at 100 Shiralee Road, Orange. Book at events.humanitix.com

Thinking about a day out for a picnic and dip? Lake Canobolas has plenty to entertain (including flking foxes for the kids) as well as water to muck around in. Pack a bike and try out the 3km circuit around the lake or the mountain bike trails nearby. If you're in Dubbo take yourself down to the Macquarie Rive for a swim, a paddle (thinking kayaking/canoeing here) or to just sit in the shade under a tree and throw a fishing line in. Further afield try Flat Rock (near O'Connell, off Mutton Falls Road at the Fish River) or Clarence Dam (or Dam Cliffs) - a free swimming hole that is both deep and cool (Chifley Road, east of Lithgow). Grove Creek, a hour's drive south of Bathurst, is worth the drive after recent rain, but make sure you swim away from Grove Creek Falls. Wallaby Rocks on the Turon River west of the village of Sofala is lovely, but doesn't have facilities so you'll need to pack for that.

Orange's F.O.O.D (Food of Orange District) week will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year (COVID willing). Australia's longest running regional food festival is a 10-day community event celebrating Orange's food and wine - from farmers to chefs and restaurants. Among this year's signature events are Shining the Light on Local Producers, the Sampson Street Lunch, a 30^th anniversary dinner, Taste Local on the Lawn and a Sunday producers market and brunch. A decision on whether Forage will be held will be made on January 31, pending COVID conditions. Orange F.O.O.D, April 9-18. Various venues. Tickets available at orangefoodweek.com.au.

Tis the season for yummy berries. And what better way to enjoy the bounty of early summer than to pick your own at Huntley Berry Farm. Grab a bucket and wander around some of their 11 berry varieties, including strawberries and raspberries. 1024 Huntley Rd, Huntley, open Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 3pm. Entry: gold coin donation.

Thinking of hitting the road for a camping holiday this year? A lot of people are and there are some great locations in the Central West and (way) beyond. You can start in Dubbo with visits to the Farmers Markets, Taronga Western Plains Zoo and the city's historic streets. Then hit the road heading west. Visit Silverton, Wilcannia and Walgett (try the thermal artesian bore baths), look at fish traps in Brewarrina and paddle boat in Bourke. The entire trail is 930km following the Darling River. Should take six days or so (depending on how much you linger longer). Don't forget to back the mosquito repellent and the sunscreen. Check out https://www.visitnsw.com/things-to-do/drives-and-road-trips/central-to-outback-nsw

Big events, big personalities, lives lived and experiences shared are all part of Orange Regional Museum's newest long-term exhibition. Inherit: Old and New Histories takes a look at the region using more than 100 objects with stories that have shaped the area's history. 151 Byng St, Orange. Runs until September 5, 2021.

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