Wellington Caves and Phosphate Mine
Wellington Caves are thought to have been discovered in 1830 by a colonist, George Ranken, who accidentally fell into the entrance of one of the caves. In the same year the Surveyor-General, Sir Thomas Mitchell, visited the caves with Ranken and explored three of them. In one cave, now known as the Bone Cave, were found fossilised skeletons of many giant animals which roamed the Wellington valley millions of years ago. It is now reserved for the exclusive use of scientists from all parts of the world.
Today, two caves are open for public inspection - the Cathedral Cave and the Gaden Cave. The Cathedral Cave is a vast area where visitors are confronted by a truly gigantic stalagmite, regarded as one of the largest in the world.
This imposing formation rises from the dry earth covered floor to a height of about 15 metres and measures about 32 metres around the base. Illuminated by hidden lights, it has a majestic appearance and is popularly known as 'the Madonna'. The Gaden Cave is smaller in comparison to the Cathedral Cave, but has unusual and exquisite formations.
In the grounds is a large aviary containing many colourful Australian birds. Other facilities include toilets, kiosk, undercover picnic area with coin operated barbecue facilities all set in pleasant surroundings, arts, crafts, crystals and gemstones.
Tour times during non school holiday periods are daily as follows: Cathedral Cave at 10.00 a.m., 12.30 p.m. and 4.00 p.m.; Gaden Cave at 9.00 a.m. and 1.30 p.m.; and Phosphate Mine at 11.00 a.m. and 2.30pm. During school holidays, tour times are daily as follows: Cathedral Cave at 9.00 a.m., 10.00 a.m., 11.30 a.m., 1.00 p.m., 2.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m.; Gaden Cave at 11.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m.; Phosphate Mine at 10.00 a.m., 12.30 p.m., 2.00 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. Tour times are subject to change without notice.
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Phone: 02 6845 1733 Toll free: 1800 621 614 Fax: 02 6845 1989 |
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