The village name itself comes from “Trial Gang”, which relates to the team of convicts that were working at the nearby Macarthur property, Richlands.

This heritage will be celebrated from 10am to 4pm this Saturday, February 18 with a Heritage Fair in the grounds of Taralga’s St Luke’s Church – the striking blue stone church on the hill.

Treasurer of Taralga Parish Council Jennifer Lamb said the Heritage Fair marked the centenary of the consecration of the three Anglican Churches of the Taralga district –St Luke’s in Taralga, St Mark’s at Golspie and St Matthews at Bannaby.  

“Although all three churches were built well over a century ago, it was not until February 17, 1917 that they were consecrated by the Bishop of Goulburn, Bishop Radford,” Ms Lamb said.

“On that day he was driven around the parish in a modern invention – a motor car.

“One hundred years later, the present Bishop of Canberra Goulburn Bishop Stuart Robinson will be at the Heritage Fair.  He will also come in a car.

“As well as having a diverse range of stalls and car boot sales, the Heritage Fair will feature an abundance of children’s activities including games, novelty races, exploration games and a treasure hunt – with a chest resplendent with gold baubles as a prize.”

Rector of the Taralga Parish, Rev Sallyanne Hart said the Heritage Fair would recall country life a century ago. 

“We will be running three-legged races, sack races and egg-and-spoon races for the children – and any adults who want a go – and we’re hoping some people will come in period costume,” Rev Hart said. 

“We’re also looking out for traditional games and will have hop-scotch and hoopla happening.”

The Taralga Heritage Fair at 10am-4pm Saturday 18 February will celebrate heritage with fun and laughter at St Luke’s on the hill.