THE Nepean District Historical Society will be holding its Open Day at the Arms of Australia Inn, Museum, Corner Gardenia Avenue and Great Western Highway, Emu Plains on Sunday 25 October, 2026, from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Admission free.

The original foundations of the Inn date back to 1826 when the building was an outhouse for the Emu Plains Convict Farm. The Inn reached its heights during the Gold Rushes of the 1850s when there were at least 12 similar inns along this section of the Western Road to Bathurst. This prosperous era for Emu Plains came to an end with the opening of Victoria Bridge and the extension of the railway across the Blue Mountains in 1867. The Inn was later used as private accommodation and gradually fell into disrepair.

2026 is a special year as it celebrates 200 years since the first foundations and 50 years since the Inn was restored from a derelict building to its current condition incorporating the Museum in 1976. This was achieved by the combined efforts of Penrith City Council and the Nepean District Historical Society.

On the day there will be displays in the Inn telling the history of the building and the Penrith area. As in previous years there will be activities including the old fashioned school room, antique and classic motor car clubs, Pioneer Timber Cutters, Hawkesbury Antique Machinery Club, book stall, petting zoo, face painting, a white elephant stall plus the tea room, BBQ and drinks.

For more information about the 50 year Celebration Open Day call 02 4735 4394, email info@armsofaustraliainn.org.au or visit the website at www.armsofaustraliainn.org.au