Visitors to the iconic Wellington Caves will have better accessibility to one of its most popular attractions, thanks to a significant investment from the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.
Member for the Dubbo electorate has today announced $22,000 for Dubbo Regional Council to replace the staircase to Thunder Cave, which has been closed since March 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions and safety concerns.
“Buried deep underground, the acoustics in the Thunder Cave are really something to behold – hence the name – but unfortunately the area also experiences really high humidity levels,” Mr Saunders said.
“The existing staircase has rusted through in some locations, and the area has had to be closed to visitors.
“It’s great to be able to support council to restore access to this awe-inspiring section of the iconic caves!”
Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Mathew Dickerson welcomed the funding.
“The stairs into Thunder Cave have deteriorated over time causing safety concerns and as a result the whole area has been closed to visitors,” Councillor Dickerson said.
“However, this is a significant part of the tour that highlights historic graffiti and evidence of a bat roost from many years ago.
“To have the funding to replace the stairs will allow visitors to once again be able to view this significant area within Cathedral Cave.”
Due to wet weather throughout 2022, Cathedral Cave is also closed to visitors, however Gaden Cave is open subject to conditions. Visitors are encouraged to go to https://www.wellingtoncaves.com.au/ after 9am for that day’s ticket information.