cobar nsw tourism

Destination Cobar: Mines, Metal, and Memories

Situated in the vast landscapes of New South Wales, Cobar offers visitors a genuine taste of Australia's rich mining heritage, vibrant community spirit, and the rugged beauty of the outback. As one embarks on a journey to explore Cobar NSW, they're greeted by a town that stands as a testament to both historical significance and contemporary resilience.

Cobar New South Wales is more than just its famous mines or fluctuating weather patterns. The town, with its increasing Cobar population, showcases a dynamic blend of cultures, traditions, and modernity. Each corner tells a story, from its industrious past centred around the renowned Cobar mine to the bustling present-day life that offers numerous things to do in Cobar.

This article aims to guide you through the multifaceted aspects of Cobar, ensuring you gain an in-depth understanding of what makes this town an essential stop on any NSW itinerary. Whether you're curious about Cobar weather patterns or the intricate tapestry of daily life, our exploration begins here, in the heart of Cobar.

A Glimpse into Cobar's Past and Present

Nestled in the vast stretches of New South Wales, Cobar's origins are deeply intertwined with Australia's mining history. When speaking of Cobar, the Cobar mine often takes centre stage, symbolising the town's industrious spirit. The mine, which has been operational for decades, remains an emblem of Cobar's contribution to the nation's economy and its pivotal role in the state's development.

The evolution of Cobar from a mining outpost to a thriving town in Cobar NSW has been nothing short of remarkable. As the years passed, the town's foundation, rooted in mining, gradually expanded to encompass various sectors, enriching its cultural tapestry and shaping its distinct identity.

Cobar Weather

For travellers planning a journey to Cobar, a grasp of the typical Cobar weather can prove invaluable. The climate of Cobar, like many regions in New South Wales, is characterized by distinct seasonal variations, offering unique experiences throughout the year.

Summer in Cobar: Summers in Cobar can be warm, with daytime temperatures often reaching the high 30s (°C). While the days are hot, they're usually paired with clear skies, making it an ideal time for those who prefer sun-drenched landscapes. It's advisable for visitors to stay hydrated, wear protective clothing, and limit prolonged outdoor activities to the cooler parts of the day.

Autumn in Cobar: As summer wanes, the Cobar weather transitions into the milder conditions of autumn. Daytime temperatures gradually decrease, introducing a more temperate climate. The changing foliage paints the town in hues of orange, red, and gold, presenting a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing.

Winter in Cobar: Winters in Cobar are cooler, with temperatures often hovering between 5°C to 15°C. While there is no snowfall, occasional frosts can grace the town, especially during the early mornings.

Spring in Cobar: Spring witnesses a revival, as warmer temperatures and blooming flora herald the onset of a fresh cycle. The Cobar weather during this period is marked by moderate temperatures, making it conducive for outdoor explorations and various activities.

The Significance of the Cobar Mine

The story of Cobar, in many respects, is synonymous with the tale of the Cobar mine. Situated in the heart of New South Wales, this mine is more than just a source of minerals—it's a testament to the town's resilience, innovation, and enduring spirit.

A Historical Perspective:

The discovery of the Cobar mine marked a transformative period for the town. It signalled the onset of a mining boom that not only reshaped the physical landscape but also the socioeconomic fabric of the community. As miners flocked to Cobar in search of opportunity, the town evolved, accommodating an influx of workers, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

Over the years, the mine has witnessed numerous operational shifts, technological advancements, and changes in ownership. But throughout its various phases, one constant remained—the mine's central role in Cobar's identity.

Economic Pillar:

The economic implications of the Cobar mine cannot be understated. Serving as a primary employer, the mine has facilitated job opportunities spanning generations. Its operations have catalysed ancillary industries, from logistics and transportation to hospitality and retail, ensuring a holistic development of Cobar's economy.

Cultural Impact:

Beyond its economic contribution, the mine has deeply influenced Cobar's culture. Stories of miners, their challenges, triumphs, and everyday life, have become integral to the town's collective narrative. Over time, these tales have been passed down, fostering a sense of community pride and shared heritage.

Today, as one walks through Cobar, the legacy of the Cobar mine is palpable. From monuments commemorating mining pioneers to educational centres offering insights into the industry, the mine's imprint on the town is undeniable.

Top Things to Do in Cobar

Cobar, with its rich history and evolving dynamics, presents a plethora of experiences for visitors. If you're charting out your itinerary and pondering over the things to do in Cobar, look no further. Here's a curated list to ensure you make the most of your stay:

Visit the Cobar Heritage Centre: Begin your journey with an insight into the town's past. The Heritage Centre offers a comprehensive overview of Cobar's mining history, indigenous culture, and local folklore.

Explore the Mining Landscapes: A trip to Cobar would be incomplete without witnessing its iconic mining operations. While the Cobar mine is a major highlight, there are other sites that provide a perspective on the mining processes and its significance.

Great Cobar Copper Mine Lookout: Offering panoramic views of the town and its surrounding landscapes, this lookout is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and those looking to soak in the vastness of the region.

Take a Nature Walk: Beyond its industrial facets, Cobar boasts natural beauty. There are several walking trails where one can experience the local flora and fauna, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the indigenous wildlife.

Engage with the Community: Participate in local events, visit community centres, or simply strike up a conversation with the locals. The essence of Cobar is best understood through its people.

Cobar, situated in the heart of NSW, offers a blend of historical resonance and modern vibrancy. From its iconic Cobar mine to its evolving cobar population, the town stands as a testament to resilience, growth, and community spirit. Whether you're drawn by its rich heritage or the promise of new experiences, Cobar ensures a fulfilling journey. So, as you contemplate your next travel destination, consider Cobar—a town that encapsulates the essence of New South Wales in its every nook and corner.

Honest tourism information about Australia

The best things to do in Cobar, NSW – free, exclusive guide

• David Whitley

The best things to do in Cobar, NSW, include the Great Cobar Museum, Cobar Sound Chapel and Mount Grenfell National Park.

4 best things to do in Cobar, NSW

• Discover copper mining heritage at the Great Cobar Museum .
• Look deep into an open cast mine at the Fort Bourke Hill Lookout .
• Visit Aboriginal rock art sites in Mount Grenfell National Park.
• Check out a weird art installation in an old water tower at the Cobar Sound Chapel .

Where is Cobar, NSW?

Cobar, NSW , is an outback town on the Barrier Highway . You’ll pass through on the drive from Sydney to Broken Hill , and it’s the last town on the highway that can even vaguely pass itself of as being in the country rather than the desert.

Things to do in Cobar, NSW: Great Cobar Museum

Things to do in Cobar, NSW, largely revolve around mining. The town was once Australia’s biggest copper producer, and the remnants of the Great Cobar Copper Mine are outside the Great Cobar Museum. This was former administration building for the mine, built in 1912.

As regional museums go, the Great Cobar Museum is pretty good. It covers local Aboriginal history as well as mining heritage. You can also get behind the controls of a massive excavator, while the building also hosts the Cobar Visitor Information Centre .

Things to do in Cobar, NSW: Miners Heritage Park and Fort Bourke Hill Lookout

Across the road from the Great Cobar Museum is the Cobar Miners Heritage Park, which assembles various bits of mining paraphernalia, including the 15 metre tall poppet-head from the New Cobar Mine. There’s also a pretty cool sculpture of a miner.

South-east of the town centre, you can visit the Fort Bourke Hill Lookout, which looks out over an open cast mine. The patterns carved into the ground to allow the mining trucks into the mine are pretty darned impressive.

What to do in Cobar, NSW: Cobar Sound Chapel

The newest tourist attraction in Cobar, NSW, is the Cobar Sound Chapel . This is an art installation inside a disused, century-old water tank.

Inside, a recording of a string quartet plays on a loop, 24 hours a day. The interior architecture was designed with the music in mind, and William Blake poetry is inscribed on the wall.

Cobar attractions: Mount Grenfell National Park

Perhaps the most important attraction in Cobar, however, is Mount Grenfell National Park . About 40km north-west of Cobar, this national park protects one of the most significant Aboriginal rock art sites in the country.

From the picnic area, it’s an easy 3km return walk to the rock art site. Slightly tougher is the Ngiyampaa walking track to the top of Mount Grenfell. This 4km loop track offers excellent views from the top.

Cobar accommodation recommendations

The best places to stay in Cobar are:

• For a decent-sized pool and kitchenettes: Crossroads Motel .
• For – usually – the cheapest prices: Copper City Motel .
• For family rooms and a restaurant: Cobar Town and Country Motor Inn .

Driving times to Cobar, NSW

Bourke to Cobar : Distance 160km, driving time 1h38m.

Broken Hill to Cobar : Distance 457km, driving time 4h45m.

Dubbo to Cobar : Distance 297km, driving time 3h13m.

Nyngan to Cobar : Distance 131km, driving time 1h21m.

Sydney to Cobar: Distance 680km, driving time 8h3m.

Wilcannia to Cobar: Distance 260km, driving time 2h41m.

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Things to do in Cobar

More than just a rest stop, Cobar is worth spending a bit of time. Here are my tips for the best things to do in Cobar in Outback NSW.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today. He has been a journalist for more than 20 years and loves exploring different parts of Australia.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Travel Australia Today and has been a journalist for 20 years.

Last updated: December 22, 2021

The best things to do in Cobar

Use the table of contents to jump down the article - or continue reading for all my tips on the best things to do in Cobar.

Fort Bourke Hill Lookout

Peak gold mine, mining heritage museum, cobar miners heritage park, heritage walk, the big beer can, centenary of federation walking track, new reservoir, old reservoir, mount grenfell historic site.

On the long outback drive on the Barrier Highway in New South Wales, Cobar stands out as a town of note.

Between Nyngan and Broken Hill, the dirt turns red and the trees get shorter. The landscape is impressive but the towns are, for the most part, just convenient spots to grab some petrol and stretch your legs.

Except for Cobar. There are plenty of things to do in Cobar and it’s worth more than just a rest stop.

If you’re going to stay overnight, I’ve got some tips here for the best accommodation in Cobar . There aren’t many options so it’s worth booking in advance.

The story of modern Cobar (because, of course, the Indigenous story goes back thousands of years) is all about mining and it begins when copper was discovered here in 1870.

The town grew quickly and, at its peak, Cobar would’ve been home to about 10,000 people – with 2,000 of them directly working with the mine, one of the largest operations in the world at the time.

But copper lost its value after the First World War and Cobar could’ve gone the way of many other old mining towns. Luckily the ground here was a treasure trove – gold was discovered here, and a gold mine was opened in 1934.

Since then, mines have opened and closed, with operations focused on gold, zinc, lead, silver… and even copper again!

When you visit Cobar today, you’ll quickly realise that mining is still an important part of the town. Lots of people who live here work in the industry, and lots of businesses rely on miners. And running through it all is a strong community spirit.

Driving to Broken Hill?

Click here for my detailed itinerary for a Sydney to Broken Hill road trip – including the best things to do and best places to stay .

When it comes to things to do in Cobar, there are a few sights related to the mining heritage, and spending some time around town will give you a sense of the community these days.

Then there are a few spots just out of Cobar that’ll get you up close to the natural landscapes and Indigenous history.

I would recommend a full day in Cobar to do it all in a relaxed way. To help with your planning, let me share my tips for the best things to do in Cobar.

The best view in Cobar is from the Fort Bourke Hill Lookout , just out of town. From the viewing platform, you can look down into the New Cobar Gold Mine.

The mine is still operational and you’ll likely see some vehicles going in and out of the hole at the bottom of the snaking path. About 200 dump trucks full gets pulled out each week.

From the lookout, which is about 300 metres high, you’ll also be able to see out over town and get a perspective of the local landscapes.

The Fort Bourke Hill Lookout is a good place to start your visit for an overview of Cobar – and it’s just a short drive out of town.

If you drive a little further out of town, you’ll come across another operational mine – the Peak Gold Mine.

You can’t see as much action here because most of the work is happening underground or in buildings, but there is a short heritage trail here called the Golden Walk.

The trail takes you past some old mining shafts and rusting equipment that has been put on display. There are also some information signs and a small lookout at the end, which gives you a view into the main mine site.

Although it’s not one of the most interesting things to do in Cobar, it gives you a bit more of an impression of what the mining industry is like here these days.

(There is a note saying that there are plans to redevelop the Golden Walk and improve it for tourists.)

The first copper mines founded in Cobar in 1870 were later merged to create the Great Cobar Copper Mine. It’s in the centre of town and the welcome sign is built on its slag heap.

You can’t see much of the mine these days but the administration building that was constructed in 1912 is still here, on the side of the main road.

In fact, this building is now used as the Great Cobar Heritage Centre, a museum that tells the story of mining in the region and the related expansion of Cobar.

Unfortunately it is closed until mid-2021 for a redevelopment but you can still spot a few things out front and in the outside area beside it.

Across the road from the heritage centre is the Cobar Miners Heritage Park, an outdoor area with an interesting collection of items from the region’s mining history.

The park is a memorial for the people who have been killed working in the mines, but it is also designed to be educational.

You’ll see a restored stamper battery from the Mount Boppy Mine; a 15-metre-high poppet-head from the New Cobar Mine; and a loader from the CSA Mine.

All these years of mining have led to the town of Cobar becoming relatively prosperous and it’s certainly got a lot more going on than many of the other Outback settlements in this part of New South Wales.

Many of the buildings are historic and have interesting heritage value. You can walk around yourself and see a lot of them, or you can follow some suggestions.

Pop into the information centre when you arrive and grab a free map with the most important buildings marked, and then head along the marked-out Heritage Walk for the best route.

One of my favourite buildings along the way is the Great Western Hotel , which is said to have the longest pub balcony in New South Wales, or the longest wrought-iron balcony in the Southern Hemisphere (depending on who you ask).

Regardless, it’s a really interesting building and, inside, you get huge meals and cheap beer. It’s a great stop for lunch or dinner and it’s usually buzzing.

Speaking of pubs, you won’t want to miss the Grand Hotel and it’s contribution to Australia’s collection of ‘big things’. This is where you’ll find the Big Beer Can, sitting on top of its verandah.

The Grand Hotel is on the main street and is hard to miss. I suspect that even people who are just passing through stop for a photos because it’s one of the best things to see in Cobar.

As well as the Heritage Walk in Cobar, there’s another trail that’s been developed. It’s called the Centenary of Federation Walk and goes from the centre of town, out into some of the surrounding land.

It’s a lovely path for a walk (if it’s not too hot) and you’ll get to see a bit of the residential part of town, some of the nature, and some remnants of old mines.

A casual walk along the path would take about two hours but a fast walker could do it in less time.

One of the main places the Centenary of Federation Walk takes you to is the New Tank, or the ‘Newey’ as the locals call it, in a typical Aussie way.

This reservoir is a popular spot with locals for swimming, kayaking and other watersports. As a visitor, you’re more than welcome and it would be a great spot for a dip after exploring in the heat.

There’s also a dirt track around the reservoir which is good for motorbike or mountain bike riding.

Before there was the New Tank, there was the Old Reservoir a bit further out of town. It’s much larger and is also a really popular spot for locals.

As well as kayaking, there’s often enough water to take a boat out on the Old Reservoir. And there are a lot of tracks around here that are good for motorbike riding.

While you’re out at the Old Reservoir, follow the signs to Devil’s Rocks. This interestingly-shaped rock formation was an important site for the local Indigenous people.

It was considered an evil place and important ceremonies were performed here.

And, finally, one of the best things you can do from Cobar is a little excursion to Mount Grenfell . It’s about 70 kilometres away and can also be visited when heading along the road to Broken Hill (it’s about 30km off the highway).

Mount Grenfell has one of the most important collections of Indigenous rock art in the country. On the caves, there are about 1300 different images, telling the stories of life in the region for millennia.

The rock art is the highlight and it’s really worth the trip to see it. But there’s also a 5km walking trail that will take you through some of the bush. The landscapes here are stunning.

As you can see, there’s a lot that you would miss if you just drove straight through town, like so many people do. There are heaps of things to do in Cobar and it’s a great place to have a break if you’re doing a longer road trip.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN COBAR

There are only a few places to stay in Cobar, and they all have fairly basic motel-style facilities. But some are better than others, so I recommend booking in advance to secure a room in your preference.

CARAVAN PARK

Of course it has sites for caravans, but the Cobar Caravan Park also has nice studios and apartments.

Because it’s usually got the cheapest rooms, the Copper City Motel is a good budget option.

It’s nothing flash, but the Cobar Town & Country Motor Inn is an institution with large comfortable rooms.

MOST POPULAR

And the Oasis Motel has recently been renovated so is probably the nicest option in Cobar at the moment.

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Fascinating outback mining town.

For over 100 years Cobar has been a mining town. Even today an essential part of every visitor's itinerary is a visit to the New Cobar Open Cut Gold Mine and the Peak Gold Mine. Cobar is one of those deceptive country towns which, on the surface, just looks like any one of a hundred rural service centres. However just beneath this ordinary exterior there is an exceptional museum, an excellent Mining Heritage Park, a remarkable Sound Chapel and a superb display of Aboriginal rock art at Mount Grenfell. Mining still drives the local economy but, in the winter months, it becomes popular with tourists driving from the coast to Broken Hill.

Cobar is located 690 km north-west of Sydney via the Blue Mountains and Mudgee. It is 243 m above sea level.

Origin of Name

In This is What Happened: Historical Narratives by Aborigines Luise Hercus records a story told by Dave Harris, an old local Aborigine, at Murrin Bridge in 1970. "You've heard of Cobar, out there, township Cobar? Old blackfellow sitting down there at the burba (an initiation ceremony). He's making paint for corroboree. He's painting himself for a corroboree. Whitefellow came riding: 'What are you making, Daddy?'" "I'm making paint for corroboree." Whitefellow said to him: 'Where did you get that? Show me!' "He showed him the gubar, the red ochre. That's how they named Cobar. The old Blackfellow showed him where it was, and it was copper worth thousands of pounds." So modern Cobar is simply a bad translation of 'gubar' meaning red ochre or copper.

Things to See and Do

Great Cobar Heritage Centre The Great Cobar Heritage Centre stands on the Barrier Highway at the eastern end of town and is located in the former Mines Administration Office which was built in 1910. It is a handsome building which contains one of the finest rural museums in Australia. A model of a rural museum the Great Cobar Heritage Centre was created by professional museum curators and today it still employs, albeit on a part time basis, a professionally trained curator. The result is a museum which, rather than being a repository for the detritus of the local area, is a cleverly constructed experience where visitors can smell and touch home made soap made from lard and kerosene and see the history of the Cobar district gradually unfold in a series of excellent displays starting with Aboriginal settlement and including displays of indigenous artefacts and bush foods; the problems of water shortages in the area; the unique bush skills required by Europeans to survive in this inhospitable land and displays on the experience of growing up in Cobar. The Shire Council website explains that "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 ... 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." As well the outside exhibition includes the story of the Royal Far West Children's Health Scheme. It is open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, tel: (02) 6836 2448. Check out http://www.cobar.nsw.gov.au/index.php/tourism/visitor-s-centre for other information.

Visitors Centre The Great Cobar Heritage Centre includes the excellent Cobar Visitors Centre. This is a very necessary starting point for anyone wanting to explore the town and the surrounding attractions as the Visitors Centre provides the excellent Cobar Mud Map which provides three maps (a Heritage Walk town map which lists 41 places of interest on a walk around town), a district map and a map of the Day Tours in the area. It also has an important and useful brochure on Mount Grenfell National Park and the National Parks Back o' Bourke . Like the Heritage Centre, the Visitor Centre is open from Monday to Friday from 8.30 am - 5.00 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, tel: (02) 6836 2448. Check out http://www.cobar.nsw.gov.au/index.php/tourism/visitor-s-centre for other information.

The Cobar Heritage Walk The Cobar Mud Map includes a detailed Heritage Walk which starts at the Great Cobar Heritage Centre, heads into town past the Great Cobar Copper Mine Open Cut (which was excavated between 1870-1920 mostly using pick and shovel and horse and dray), through Drummond Park (named after the founder of the Royal Far West Children's Health Scheme), past a series of historic private and public buildings in Frederick, Bourke and Murray Streets, up to the railway station, back to the Great Western Hotel and then back to the Heritage Centre via the Miner's Heritage Park. In total 41 places of interest are listed with the highlights including:

Great Western Hotel The most interesting and the most prominent building in town is the huge Great Western Hotel (1898) in the main street. The pub's timber veranda with cast-iron balustrades and a lacework balcony is 100 metres long and, as such, is reputedly the longest cast iron veranda and balcony in Australia.

Longworth Now a National Trust-listed building this elegant building was built for Thomas Longworth who used it as both a surgery and a residence. He was the doctor for the Great Cobar Mine.

Cobar Court House The Cobar Court House (1887) in Barton Street is a fine example of a late Victorian Free Classical Style public building and a comment on the prosperity of the town at the time.

Court House Hotel This is the third hotel on this site. The original was the Miner's Arms which became Tattersall's Hotel which was burnt down and replaced by the Court House Hotel (1895). It was renamed for no better reason that it stood opposite the Court House. In recent times it has been converted into offices for solicitors and accountants.

Newey Reserve Located at the end of Belagoy Street, which runs off the main street, the Newey Reserve surrounds Cobars's  New Reservoir, built in 1910 within the town boundaries of Cobar, to the south of the town centre. It is set aside for recreation, fishing and nature conservation. The site is a haven for water birds and includes a large circular walk during which many other birds can be seen.  On weekends, families visit the reserve to use the BBQs provided and to rest under the many trees.. Check out https://www.cobar.nsw.gov.au/engineering/parks-and-reserves#the-newly for more information.

Cobar Sound Chapel Located 1.5 km west of the town centre, the Cobar Sound Chapel, a permanent new sound installation artwork which was completed in early 2022 and is a creation by composer and sound artist Georges Lentz in collaboration with architect Glenn Murcutt. The Cobar Sound Chapel   is a marriage of sound, architecture, art, poetry and nature. The website explains: "The Cobar Sound Chapel is a permanent new ​sound installation, set in an old disused water tank from 1901 and inspired by the vast landscape of the Australian outback. It is cross-disciplinary, combining sound, architecture, art, poetry and the natural environment in a unique and site-specific context. It functions as a digital 4-channel string quartet lasting 24 hours, played on a loop, day and night, whether someone is listening or not. The Cobar Sound Chapel celebrates the rugged beauty of the outback landscape and its starry night skies. Other major influences include Australian Indigenous art and culture, the art and poetry of William Blake (1757-1827), and the gritty rawness of the tank wall's grafitti art. "The Cobar Sound Chapel is a creation by renowned composer and sound artist Georges Lentz  in collaboration with Pritzker-Prize-winning architect  Glenn Murcutt , the outstanding musicians of  The Noise String Quartet , as well as Cobar Indigenous visual artist  Sharron Ohlsen . The Chapel functions as the permanent home of Lentz's digital surround-sound composition  String Quartet(s)  (2000-2022), a vast piece of sound art inspired by the outback landscape and its night skies. Glenn Murcutt's architecture is in direct dialogue with structural and rhythmic patterns found in  String Quartet(s) , such as the number 4, squares, multiples of 4, the relationship between the numbers 1, 4 and 16 (or in musical terms, between semiquavers, crotchets and semibreves - patterns found throughout the music heard in the Chapel). To give a simple architectural equivalent, the four walls of the Chapel cube are 5 metres tall, of which the corner window occupies only the last metre. "​ The Cobar Sound Chapel is an immersive walk-in sound installation in the shape of an intimate 5 by 5 by 5 metre concrete cube, set within the existing 10-metre-high water tank. Each of the four walls of the cube has an in-built loudspeaker, thus placing the listener sitting on the central bench right "inside the sound". The Chapel sets up a dialogue between the sound and its architectural vessel, with the sound of the music (and sometimes also of environmental noises) colouring the atmosphere of the architecture, and vice versa. Sound will also spill out of the Chapel and out of the tank into the surrounding landscape, giving the impression of a lonely 'musical water tank' in the midst of the silence of the Outback." Access to the Cobar Sound Chapel is free of charge. The Chapel is locked by two gates which allow the casual visitor without a key to peep into its interior and hear some of the sound emanating from the artwork. To gain access to the inside, visitors need to pick up a key from the Great Cobar Museum in Marshall Street. If you are coming from far away, we recommend you contact the Museum to reserve the key for your chosen day and time. Tel:02 6836 5806 or email [email protected] . Visitors will be required to leave proof of ID as well as a AUD $300 cash bond, which will be fully refunded to you upon returning the key. Please note you must return the key yourself. Do not hand the key to third parties, or you will not get your bond back.​The opening hours of the Museum are Mon-Fri, 8.30 am - 4.30 pm, Sat-Sun, 9.00 am - 4.30 pm. Check out https://www.cobarsoundchapel.com/ for more information.

Other Attractions in the Area

Fort Bourke Lookout and New Cobar Open Cut Gold Mine Located, and clearly signposted on the Hillston Road south of town, is the Fort Bourke Lookout which offers an excellent view of the town and the deep open pit which is the New Cobar Open Cut Mine. This is a working mine and it is fascinating to see the huge trucks making their way up from the 150 m deep hole. Beside the viewing platform is a rather ugly Filtration Plant which is vital to the survival of the town. In 1966 a 130 km-long pipeline was built from Nyngan to Cobar to provide the town with a reliable supply of water. Prior to that Cobar battled to sustain itself with water as it is not located on any major river. The only water available was from the Old Reservoir.

The Old Reservoir and Devil's Rock Located 3 km from town the Old Reservoir became Cobar's major water supply in the 1880s. There is a one kilometre walking path to Devil's Rock. Today the Old Reservoir is notable for its birdlife and wildlife. It is worth visiting at sunrise and sunset. Follow the Old Bourke Road out of town.

Aboriginal Rock Art at Mount Grenfell National Park The journey to Mount Grenfell is not easy. Firstly don't attempt it in the early morning or late afternoon unless you want to battle your way through mobs of kangaroos. Secondly be prepared: It is a 146 km round trip with 66 km on a very ordinary dirt road. Head towards Wilcannia on the Barrier Highway for 40 km then turn right (it is clearly signposted) along a gravel road and drive 33 km to the picnic-barbecue-toilet-car parking area. The journey is worth the effort. Mount Grenfell, which has been inhabited by Ngiyampaa people for tens of thousands of years, has some of the finest examples of rock art in Australia.

When you reach the car park you have to walk up the hill to a secondary car park (the gate is often locked) where there is signage and two walks - a 300 m walk to the three main rock shelters and a 5 km Ngiyampaa Walk through the surrounding bush country.

The three main rock shelters (which can be accessed by a good pathway from the farthest point on this car park) contain over 1,300 richly coloured images including humans, kangaroos, birds and other animal figures. There are outstanding examples of hand stencils which have been made by placing the hand on the blackened roof of the cave and blowing ochre onto the hand. There are also some interesting abstract linear designs. These displays, most of which are applied with either fingertip or brush, are regarded as some of the best examples Aboriginal rock art in New South Wales.

The 5 km Ngiyampaa Walk was once marked by wooden posts but the termites ate them and they have been replaced by metal star posts. The walk is across harsh terrain and eventually reaches a semi-permanent waterhole which, in this arid area, was reason enough to settle in the caves.

* Prior to the arrival of Europeans the Cobar area was the traditional home of the Ngemba and Wongaibon Aboriginal people.

* Pastoralists moved into the area in the mid-1860s.

* In 1870 Campbell, Hartman and Gibb discovered copper at Kubbar waterhole and the town of Cobar sprung up.

* By 1871 the townsite had been surveyed and the first mine manager, Captain Thomas Lean, arrived in the town.

* By 1872 the CSA (Cornish, Scottish and Australian) Mining company had discovered significant deposits of copper.

* In 1873 the Cobar Hotel, the town's first hotel, opened for business.

* By 1875 Sidney Kidman had opened a butchery in the town.

* In 1876 the main mines amalgamated to form the Great Cobar Copper Mining Company.

* In 1892 the railway reached Cobar.

* The Great Western Hotel opened in 1898.

* By 1900 the population in Cobar and the surrounding district reached 10,000.

* In 1910 the Administration Building for the Great Cobar Copper Mine was built.

* In 1884 the town officially became the municipality of Cobar.

* By 1910 Cobar has its first electricity.

* By 1912 the Great Cobar Mine was employing 2,000 workers.

* The Great Cobar Mine closed in 1919 with a huge loss of employment.

* The CSA Mine caught fire in 1920 and burnt for the next 16 years.

* Cobar's population dropped to 1150 in 1920.

* In 1963 the Barrier Highway was sealed from Sydney to Cobar.

* The CSA Mine was reopened in 1966.

* In 1992 the Peak Gold Mine opened.

* The CSA Mine is currently New South Wales' largest producer of copper and zinc.

Visitor Information

Great Cobar Heritage and Visitor Information Centre, Barrier Highway, Cobar, tel: (02) 6836 2448.

Useful Websites

The local shire has a good, detailed website - http://www.cobar.nsw.gov.au/ - which provides information about the main attractions around town.

Got something to add?

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23 suggestions

My ancestors came out from Denmark in 1881. Christian Nelson (Nielsen) was an iron moulder (made the big wheels above mines) and they were sponsored by Chas N. Hanson (owner of West End Iron Foundry). Christian Nelson died shortly after arriving (natural causes or mining accident?). I haven’t been able to find his death registered in NSW BDM. I wondered whether the anglican church at the time would have kept records? Or what mine was operating there? His widow had a daughter, Annie Nelson on 29 July 1884. His widow then ‘married’ an American called William Rock (no doubt he worked in the mine). Can you help me with this information or pass on this email to local historian? So my ancestors are part of the history of your town. Must have been people from all over the world! Many thanks.

Try 6487/1883 CHRISTOPHER NEELSON/Neils in Death Carcoar NSW 35 years old.

Hi, I’m looking for information regarding the mining and railway track laying in the late 1880’s. What I want to know, is whether it would be usual for the families of the workers to live with the worker? Or would it be considered unsuitable for a wife and small children?

Hi I have just seen this Will be in touch. Not my Family but have done some research for you. Unita

I am researching some of my family history. I understand that my grandfather operated a hotel in Cobar called the Davis or Davies Hotel. This would have been sometime around 1920. I can remember seeing a plate with this name on it.

I wanted to see more natural environmental photos of Cobar and the surrounding areas. I’m not interested in mining at all. I have been to Cobar many years ago and the area around Cobar was beautiful which your photos do not display.

Hi, I’m researching my family history. I have a marriage certificate for my grandparents, Arthur & Florence Osborn, married in Cobar 26/10/1895. POP was listed as a blacksmith, I can’t seem to find any information about this. My Dad & Uncle were born in Cobar, 1903 & 1898 respectively. I can’t seem to find any record of them leaving Cobar, which I know they did. If you can help that would be most appreciated. Many Thanks

Hi Check website. VETRANS BORN IN COBAR. 3 Osbornes mentioned. Osbornes were living in Cobar. Cheers Unita

I have been told “The bricks from the Old Empire Are cemented to the bar And if they could, they’d tell a tale Of life in old Cobar” Bruce Walker

Could you please afford me the time to tell me about the first banks to open and trade in Cobar? if you could also who worked in them? Thank you very much for your time and patience.

My great great grandfather James Kelly apparently died at the Terminus Hotel Cobar in 1913. Could you tell me where this hotel was situated please?

Hi Noelene,

The Terminus Hotel was located on the southwest corner of Bradley and Linsley Streets

I was wondering about birth records, my father was Aboriginal , the youngest of 12 born in Cobar. I know things were different back then, so I’m wondering about family and heritage.My father was William John Anderson born in either 1943/44 is there any way that birth records for Aboriginal people were kept and if so can I access them.

Go to NSW BDM Type in Anderson William .J 1843 – 1844 Search. You will find Anderson’s here. Cobar not listed but could be just district. Maybe if there was no baptisim church won’t be listed.Worth a try. Cheers Unita

Children were born to Father Samuel Mother Sarah Then Mother change also Ellen. All born between 1843 to 1855 District not mentioned Cobar but gives you record registrations. Cheers Unita

Cobar is the Cornish name for Copper (In the Cornish Language not Aboriginal for Red Earth) ABC TV Show Backroads called it wrong. The Motto of Cornwall is:in the Cornish language -Pesk Sten ha Cobar (Fish Tin and Copper). We enjoy your Backroads production but felt this mistake should be rectified ? As you go into the Cobar Cemetery the first grave you see is of a Mr Lanyon 1912 (A total Cornish name). We are totally supportive of our Aboriginal people but this is a mistake.

Tom and Libby Luke both Bards of Cornwall.

I am trying to trace any relatives of Robert William Rankin born in Cobar 09 June 1907 . He died on 04 March 1942 when his ship HMAS Yarra was sunk in the Java Sea. We have his Naval Binoculars in our possession but do not know how we came to have them. He was awarded a Posthumous Victoria Cross.

Google Blowering.com. Rankin Bros Family information. Rankins were a well known family in the district and owned Rankin Springs. Good luck.

Hi Unita. My paternal Grandmother Doris Connelly was born in Broken Hill. Her siblings were named Ada and William. She was moved to Cobar at around the age of 8 when her dad Thomas Connelly died of TB. She was looked after by nuns, along side many other children at the time of the 1st World War.. My Grandmother’s mum’s name was Annie Johnson. She remarried a man by the surname of Spragg.. They moved to Surry Hills in Sydney at some stage. Wondering if you have any connection with this family.. Kind regards. Garry Scroggy 0416 095 024

Hi Garry I will be in contact soon.Cheers Unita

Hi Gary Hope you received everything so have now deleted emails & phone numbers Cheers Unita

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Cobar Restaurants

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Yes! We partner with restaurants in Cobar who deliver with Uber Eats, Deliveroo.

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Yes! OpenTable provides free, convenient and trusted options to book the best restaurants in Cobar either on OpenTable or directly with the restaurant.

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Yes, we partner with a third party to bring back menu information for restaurants near you.

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Cultural grants to celebrate and strengthen Aboriginal culture across NSW

Published: 10 July 2024

Released by: Aboriginal Affairs

The NSW Government is standing behind its commitment to support Aboriginal community-controlled organisations across NSW strengthen and celebrate Aboriginal arts and culture with the latest announcement of 40 successful NSW Cultural Grants recipients.

The $700,000 in grants funding will support Aboriginal community-controlled organisations to host events and activities that celebrate Aboriginal traditional and contemporary cultures.

This funding round is in addition to the $500,000 of Cultural Grants announced in January 2024.

The successful recipients represent a portion of the rich and diverse Aboriginal arts and cultures that NSW has, including:

• A troupe of young Aboriginal dancers will tour and connect with Elders on a 10-day tour across Gamilaroi, Yuwaalaraay, and Murrawarri Country
• ‘Spirited Ones Gathering’ featuring fortnightly cultural dance, song and language workshops held on Worimi land in Newcastle
• Wilay Wiradjuri Dreamscape will hold an immersive event in Victoria Park, Dubbo
• A Coffs Harbour gathering to empower and connect Aboriginal women and young people to Gumbaynggirr culture.
• An event that marks the 20th anniversary of the hand back of Mount Grenfell to the Ngiyampaa Wangaaypuwan people will be held near Cobar
• Aboriginal children in out-of-home care will participate in cultural camps at Yurramundi, north-west Sydney
• A ‘Guriyan' gathering for Bathurst-based Aboriginal men and boys that will focus on cultural activities, including fishing on Wiradjuri Country at Chifley Dam.
• A research trip for Dunghutti Elders from Kempsey to explore ancestral records held in Canberra.

More information about grant opportunities

Deputy Secretary of Aboriginal Affairs NSW Shane Hamilton said:

“Aboriginal Affairs NSW is committed to supporting Aboriginal people and communities to connect with culture and traditions, and to express that connection.

“Supporting Aboriginal people to practise culture is a key aspect of the role Aboriginal Affairs NSW undertakes. In accordance with our commitment to self-determination, these initiatives have been designed by Aboriginal communities for Aboriginal people.”

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Cobar Miners Memorial

The Cobar Miners Memorial was officially opened in June 2021 in the Cobar Miner's Heritage Park and forms a central focus as part of a collection of artefacts and memorials on the Barrier Highway entry to the Cobar township. The Cobar Miners Memorial commemorates those who have died in the local Cobar Mines.

The memorial embraces you on entry to the park, with its tough in-situ concrete walls and the focus, the large steel plate entry portal. A minimal abstract expression of the mine head, and steel rusting, bolted and braced both dramatic and curious to the passer-by. A steel spike piercing through the roof as a snorkel to the sky provides a natural vent for the space.

Within the underground chamber, the stories are told, and the victims memorialised in the symbolic tag board of brass plaques. This is a poignant reminder of the fact that these miners did not tag off on the shift that day.

Accessibility

Actively welcomes people with access needs.

Caters for people who use a wheelchair.

Have step free outdoor pathways (includes picnic areas, barbecues and shelters)

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Cobargo's bushfire relief centre to close — nearly five years after the town became the 'face of Black Summer'

Volunteers are closing the Cobargo bushfire relief centre four and a half years on from Black Summer.

The centre was first set up at the showgrounds to help displaced residents following the bushfires.

What's next? 

The centre's website will remain active for 12 months to redirect services and support.

Chris Walters was not expecting to still be volunteering at a bushfire relief centre in Cobargo on the New South Wales far south coast, nearly five years on from Black Summer.

Cobargo's main street — as many would recall from images at the time — was gutted during the Badja Forest Fire in December 2019, the same fire linked to the deaths of seven people that summer. 

Although recovery isn't over for many, it has come far enough for some volunteers to finally take a step back. 

That includes closing down the town's bushfire relief centre, one that has served the coastal village through the toughest of times.

"We take the view the job's done," Ms Walters said.

"We're feeling pretty happy that we have succeeded in what we set out do to.

"But [I'm a] little bit sad, because I've spent four and a half years doing this, what am I going to do next? 

"Probably have a holiday."

Ms Walters was a lead volunteer at the Cobargo bushfire relief centre, which first set up at the Cobargo Showgrounds to help residents seeking refuge.

The showgrounds was the location in which former prime minister Scott Morrison infamously met with angered locals in the aftermath of the bushfire disaster .

The relief centre has since moved spots twice and is now based in the town's main street.

It was renamed the Cobargo Community Access Centre in 2021 and functioned as a not-for-profit to help locals with a range of services.

Ms Walters, the centre's president, believes many locals are still on a journey towards recovery, but the demand for help has decreased in recent years.

"We would have had around 50 people a day coming to us for one thing or another, and now we have five people a week," Ms Walters said.

"There would've been about 50 people that volunteered in some form or another in those very early days. Now we're down to four ... and one paid coordinator.

"It just seemed like it was the right time."

The centre's website will remain active for 12 months to continue to help redirect those in need to alternate services.

Before: Main street of Cobargo taken 2020 (Four Corners) . . After: Cobargo's main street in 2023 (ABC South East NSW: Chris Sheedy) . .

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Still healing

Not far away from the town of Cobargo is the locality of Wandella, where a number of new houses sit in paddocks and others are still under construction.

Within it sits Tom 'Swampy' Wotton's home, and although he has rebuilt, evidence of the bushfire is ever present, from pieces of melted aluminium from pots and pans to the burnt trees that still line the hills. 

"I'll just leave it there," Mr Wotton said, observing the remains. 

"It was part of the house, so I'll keep it as part of the house."

Mr Wotton admits the bushfires took a toll on his mental health, and he feels he is not alone .

But there are signs of healing amongst the community and the landscape.

"Shit, yeah; it's not just me," he said.

"You've got to keep treading on, haven't you? You've got to keep going."

"When I first moved back here, it was black, and there were only spiders and flies and nothing else ... now we've got kangaroos and rabbits."

'The face of Black Summer'

Lots of eyes are fixed on the centre of Cobargo's main street, where land remains vacant.

There's progress on that front, with construction finally underway on one of those sites, which is set to be transformed into the Cobargo Bushfire Resilience Centre.

Before: Shops on a main strip of Cobargo on the NSW south coast burning. December 31, 2019. (Supplied) . . After: Cobargo's main street in June, 2024. (ABC South East NSW: Adriane Reardon) . .

The land was donated by the Ayliffe family, whose shop was destroyed in Black Summer.

Vice-chair and Cobargo local Rhonda Ayliffe admits the rebuild has been slower than ideal.

"I did not expect that it would take four and a half years to come out of the ground, but here we are," she said.

"COVID was a blip compared to the minefield, the absolute quagmire, of bureaucracy we have had to deal with ... it's beyond frustrating."

It is hoped the building will be finished in a year's time and open to the public in early 2026.

Ms Ayliffe, who is also a PhD candidate at the University of Canberra, said despite the hurdles she had experienced on the way, seeing construction underway had brought a sense of excitement to her and the broader community.

She believes it could take a decade for the region to fully recovery, but what Cobargo went through remains in the public's heart. 

"Research shows that it's a minimum 10-year period just to get started with these things," she said.

"Cobargo is, in many respects, the face of Black Summer."

"That gives me great hope for when we do have the heart of the town rebuilt, that people will come."

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