Little places, Big stories: Manildra

Little places, Big stories

Manildra is a small town situated on the banks of the Mandagery Creek halfway betweeen Orange and Parkes. Surrounded by rich agricultural land, fields of green wheat and golden canola create a patchwork across the landscape.

Joan Stevenson, Manildra's Trash-to-Treasure Historian, Amusu Theatre & Museum

A desire to preserve history has been the driver behind Manildra's Trash-to-Treasure Historian, Joan Stevenson. Joan is the current President of the Amusu Theatre and Museum which has operated the theatre for the past 17 years. Some of Joan's most prized pieces have been sourcd from the local rubbish tip. Joan displays her finds as part of the Amusu Theatre and adjoining museum. The museum is in an old shed which is jam-packed with an eclectic range of items. It all started with movie memorabilia but has expanded into any item that tells a story, ranging from gramophones to autograph books; a stuffed quoll to vintage magazines.  While Joan doesn't make a habit of trolling through the garbage - workers let her know if anything of historical value is unearthed like suitcases full of exquisitely embroidered linen and photo albums bound in leather full of old photos. 

Joan's top things to see and do in Manildra:

1.  Amusu Theatre and Museum

2.  Manildra Heritage Walk

3.  Enjoy the beer garden at the Royal Hotel.