of its importance to nature conservation. Other interesting nearby national parks include: Mummel Gulf National Park and Cottan-Bimbang National Park. Walcha has an Open Air Gallery where local, national and international artists have combined to create a unique streetscape with about 41 sculptures and artworks, plus 30 sculptured verandah posts in front of local businesses. There is approximately one artwork per every 85 citizens in the "Open Air Gallery", along with a large collection of works in the local gallery, making Walcha a very cultural and artistic community for its size. The town has four churches representing the Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Presbyterian denominations. There are many other tourist attractions including scenic 4WD trips, hiking, the State Forests, fishing, fossicking opportunities, Amaroo Museum & Cultural Centre, Pioneer Cottage museum and the local history archives. The Walcha Jockey Club, Walcha Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association, Walcha Show Society and the Campdraft Club hold large annual events that extend over several days each. The Walcha Bushmen's Campdraft and Rodeo Association makes large annual donations to various local organisations and other worthy causes. The New England Merino Field days which display local studs, wool and sheep are held every two years in even numbered years. A biennial Timber Expo was established to showcase the local timber industry. A biennial Garden Festival is held in the spring of even numbered years to display some of the beautiful local gardens. Proceeds from this event are donated to services such as Angel, Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service or Riverview Hostel. There are numerous other sporting and general interest clubs in the town. Notable people Edward Baker-Boulton (1812-1895), second owner of Bergen Op Zoom station (1851-1895) was the grandfather of renowned English children's author, Arthur Ransome (1884-1967), whose mother Edith Ransome was the eldest daughter of Edward and his second wife, Rachel Gwyn. Bob Beer is notable for his feats of endurance which included pedalling around Australia when he was 58 averaging 145 km every day, without support vehicle or backup. He was the first person to run the 420 km across the Simpson Desert, which he accomplished in six days. Bob Beer also made a remarkable solo journey across Australia by kayak from Port Alma to Murray Mouth. Peter Fenwicke, rugby union player captained the Australian team on its first world tour in 1957-58. Goodwin brothers, Paul, Maurice, Noel and Brian along with Bob Gill