Brekky and Poetry in the Park: 15, 16, 18 and 19 February, 7.30 to 9am at Robertson Park, Orange; $5; contact Rob Westcott 0428 626 571

Banjo Paterson Birthday Breakfast: Wednesday 17 February at Banjo Paterson Park, Ophir Road, Orange; serving breakfasts from 7.30 to 9.30am; $5

Banjo Paterson Lamb and Damper Birthday Dinner: Wednesday 17 February at the Orange Showground Agricultural Pavilion, 6.30 for 7pm

•   An affordable night of poetry, entertainment by Mel Hall and Susie Carcary from Winton, Queensland, and celebration for Banjo ($40 per person)

•   Book tickets now so you don’t miss out – go to www.brandorange.com.au.

 

Dead Men Talking: Thursday 18 February at the Hotel Canobolas Ballroom at 7.30pm

Imagine eavesdropping on an intimate conversation between Banjo Paterson and Henry Lawson – Australia’s most iconic poets.

This lively one-act show finds the two legendary literary figures having a casual drink at the Leviticus Bar & Grill, Heaven’s Gate, and yarning about their legacies. Slightly cantankerous, yet grateful for their old friendship, Henry Lawson (Max Cullen) and A. B. ‘Banjo’ Paterson (Warren Fahey) discuss each other’s lives including their famous ‘War of Words’ in The Bulletin. They recite poems, sing songs and generally banter – and have a laugh about life’s changing circumstances.

•   Tickets are now on sale for $35 at Collins Booksellers or through www.brandorange.com.au.

 

Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Competition: Saturday 20 February, Hotel Canobolas Ballroom, 3 to 5pm and 7 to 10pm

This competition is open to all poets to recite their original poetry. Categories available: Juniors, Groups, Novices and Open. Competitors $5; public entry by gold coin donation.

Information and application forms are now available at www.rotarycluboforange.org.au or by contacting Len Banks on 02 6361 7677 or lmbanks@bigpond.com

Family Market Day: Sunday 21 February, 9am to 2pm at Emmaville Cottage, Orange Botanic Gardens precinct

Craft and produce market, kids’ activities, local entertainment and open mic for poetry recitals. Organised by the Rotary Club of Orange. Soak up the history of Banjo Paterson’s possible birthplace, Emmaville Cottage. Entry by gold coin donation.