Cobar Visitor INFORMATION Centre

Barrier Highway
PO Box 223
COBAR NSW 2835

Phone: (02) 6836 5806

Fax: (02) 6836 1818

Email: visitcobar@cobar.nsw.gov.au

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday – 8.30am to 5pm
Weekends/Public Holidays – 9am to 5pm.

Museum Admission

As of January 2024

Adult - $10.00 Concession & Groups - $5.00 Family - $20.00
Coaches and groups are welcome.

History

The Great Cobar Heritage Centre is the former Administration Building (circa 1910) of the Great Cobar Copper Mine. The Centre captures the essence of Cobar, housing an outstanding collection of exhibits which date from 1869 to the present day.

Inside the centre an amazing collection of artefacts reveal the extraordinarily diverse local heritage of Cobar. Through the exhibits the rich history inherent in the everyday life of Cobar's pioneers, and the culture of 'making do' becomes apparent.

On ascending the magnificent internal staircase to the first floor, the exhibits focus on mining and pastoral industries - a model woolshed, an operating model of a gold stamper, and a seat at the controls of a massive excavator. The CSA copper mine and the Peak Gold Mine all feature in the comprehensive mining displays. A Special feature on the first floor is the local Aboriginal Ngiyampaa Tribe 'Long Time Comin' exhibit of the famous Mt Grenfell rock caves, complete with traditional artwork. Visitors can view Aboriginal artwork, play a tune on the ironstone xylophone and learn about the unique culture of the Ngiyampaa people. Outside, the colourful exposed rock strata of Cobar's first copper mining site rises from the famous 'open-cut' lake which is formed by the rising water table, The lake surface offers stunning views as it reflects the ever-changing patterns and contrasting shadows.

To ensure that you have a permanent reminder of your visit, please make sure you visit the souvenir and gift shop, where there is a large range of merchandise available for purchase and information brochures free of charge.

Visitors are also welcome to use the free barbeque facilities, picnic areas and toilets. Ample parking is provided off the fully sealed barrier Highway at the junction of the Kidman Way.