Newnes Shale Oil Ruins - Lithgow

Address: North Of Lithgow
Lithgow, NSW 2790

At the end of Wolgan Valley lies a reminder of the shale oil industry. The township and shale oil mining complex was established in 1906. The Newnes Oil Shale Mine produced low grade oil. Set within beautiful mountain scenery, a collection of shanties, huts and buildings for the mining process were built. Today the ruins of the site are all that remains Operational costs and the availability of lower priced crude oil finally

closed the works in 1932. The former hotel (now Newnes Kiosk) is the only reminder of a thriving community.

To gain access to Newnes, turn right off the Mudgee Road at Lidsdale and continue past Angus Place Colliery. A brief stop at the top of the Wolgan Gap affords excellent views of Wolgan Valley and the spectacular sandstone escarpments. Follow the road for a further 24 kilometres through to the floor of the

Valley, where there are many natural picnic areas alongside the Wolgan River.

To reach the ruins of the works, cross the river at the ford by foot or 4WD downstream from the hotel and follow the well-defined path which was the original route of the railway line.

Opening times

Accessible at all times

Contact

Contact Information: www.tourism.lithgow.com/ind...; North Of Lithgow
Lithgow, NSW 2790; Phone: (02) 6350 3230; Fax: (02) 6350 3239; tourism@lithgow.com