
In the heart of the Eastern Cape there lies
a bountiful town, Bathurst‘s name it cries
Its past and present beneath changing skies
Combine charm and warmth, smiles and surprise
In 1820 British settlers arrived
Seeking fresh opportunities and new lives
you can read the history of the town
In its buildings and names as you walk around
The Pig and Whistle, an iconic inn
Where travelers rest and locals and convene
Its walls tell tales of days gone by
told and retold with a laugh or a sigh
The Big Pineapple, not quite scraping the sky
Offers views, hopes and work to passers by
Symbolising the town, its pride and joy
testament to the hardworking employ
The many store fronts, so quirky and cute
With treasures stored inside their walls
Creativity preserved, with crafts and stalls
Purchases and presents you’ll like to recall
The farmers market, bustling with crowds
Friends and traders gather, a lively scene
Produce sold, news told, voices loud
The Heart of Bathurst, where all convene
The art galleries, with works so fine
Local artists displaying their talents
Skills and passions, a wonderous sign
And a coffee culture, now starting to thrive.
The Bathurst Agricultural Museum
A place of learning, where heritage lives
With artifacts and tools on show
A celebration of the local farmers mystery
The festivals held, with joy and cheer
Celebrating the town’s rich history
With music, dance, food and beer
Living proof of our farmers mystery
The country around, generous and green
With hills and valleys and forests serene
Where, if you tread softly, wildlife can be seen
At play, out hunting, at peace or asleep
In Bathurst the past enriches the present
its people work to make life pleasant
with warmth and tradition, humour, and talent
Its congenial heart is always apparent.
Written by Chris Jay
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