The large town of Griffith, population 22,500, was designed by Walter Burley Griffin and as a result, bares a striking resemblance (though on a smaller scale), to the nation's capital - Canberra. The town has a thriving commercial centre and is also a major agricultural centre. Early Italian settlers from the days of the Broken Hill mining boom have left their mark on the town and a distinctly Italian flavour can be found in the restaurants and bars. Fruit picking is big business in Griffith, and is the main reason backpackers visit the town. The grape harvest usually begins around mid-February and lasts for six to eight weeks. The citrus harvest starts in November and finishes around March.

Hot air ballooning over Griffith vineyards
Courtesy Tourism New South Wales