Located at the head of the Wolgan Valley, enjoy this fascinating walk into the history of Newnes - once the site of a thriving shale oil mining industry. You'll see some remarkably well-preserved remnants of the area's mining history, including old coke ovens, brick kilns, paraffin sheds and crumbling walls.
Starting at the Ruins carpark, the walking track zig zags across the large site, which is on a steep slope. The 15m 'Big Wall' is a highlight, and the unique beehive kilns are the largest of their type in Australia. Keep an eye out for wedge-tailed eagles soaring above.
Follow the route of the railway line back to the carpark. If walking from the river crossing, you'll need to add an extra 1km each way. Why not stay the night under the stars at Newnes campground with the local wombats and wallabies.
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The Ruins carpark is only accessible by 4WD or rock hopping on foot across the Wolgan River. Please don't try crossing the river in a 2WD.
If crossing the river on foot, you'll need to add an extra 1km (approx. 20-30mins) each way to the Ruins carpark.
Please don't climb the fragile ruins as they can be unstable
Remember to stay on the track as there are hidden holes off the track
Visit NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for more information on this trail.
The longitude and latitude of the start and end points are approximately only and should not be used for navigation purposes. Please contact me if you know the correct coordinates.
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Newnes Industrial Ruins are in the Lithgow area of Wollemi National Park. To get there from Lithgow:Follow the Great Western Highway west from Lithgow for 6.5km, then take the Castlereagh Highway exit towards Mudgee.At the village of Lidsdale, turn right onto Wolgan Road towards Wollemi National Park and Newnes.Newnes is around 34km from the Lidsdale turnoff.Cross the Wolgan River at the 4WD ford 100m north of the old Newnes Hotel, and turn left onto the gravel road. You'll pass several camping sites on your left before reaching the Ruins carpark. The signposted track begins at the locked gate.If walking to the ruins site:Cross the Wolgan River using the stepping stones, and follow the gravel road on the left around 1km to Newnes Ruins carpark, where the track begins. Road quality Mixture of sealed and unsealed roads Vehicle access All roads require 4WD vehicle Weather restrictions 4WD required in wet weather Parking Parking is available at the ruins carpark or near the Wolgan River crossing and Newnes Hotel.
It’s a good idea to let someone know where you’re going. Fill in a trip intention form to send important details about your trip to your emergency contact. If you are lost or require help and have phone reception, call 000 and ask for police. The international standard emergency number is 112, if you dial this number in Australia you will be treated exactly the same as a 000 call. If you believe your life is at risk, activate your personal locator beacon (PLB), then make your position visible to rescue teams and keep warm and dry.
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