Wombeyan Caves

OVERVIEW : The caves were discovered 1828 by John Oxley & John Macarthur. The Fig Tree Cave was first entered 1842. A caretaker appointed 1865, and Wollondilly & Kooringa Caves opened in 1885. Electricity was first installed 1928. Wombeyan is located in a picturesque valley, and the caves in bush setting. They feature many large chambers and magnificent features, including Lots Wife in Wollondilly Cave, and Chalker's Blanket in Junction Cave.

LOCATION : Wombeyan Caves are located in the Southern Highland of New South Wales, near the town of Taralga, Approximately 200 km from Sydney.

ACCOMMODATION : A range of accommodation is available, including a guest cottage, on-site caravans, en-suite cabins, dormitory, and camping facilities (some powered sites). Facilities include a Visitor's Centre, kiosk, tennis courts, parklands, BBQs, picnic areas, playgrounds, swimming, community room/kitchen, and caravan park.

CAVE TOURS : Five caves open for inspection. The self-guided Fig Tree Cave, featuring the huge Opera House Cavern and Victoria Arch, is open during the day from 8.30am until 5.00pm. Guided tours are conducted at regular intervals to Wollondilly Cave (90 min. tour, 40 max. party), with its massive Cathedral Chamber; and to Junction Cave (90 min, 40 max.), with flowstone and underground river. Two other caves, Kooringa Cave (60 min., 20 max.) and Mulwaree Cave (60 min., 25 max.), are delicately decorated connoisseurs caves and are usually shown on alternative days at 10am, but more frequently in peak periods.

SPECIALIST TOURS : Historical Tours to non-tourist section of Wollondilly Cave are run on demand, particularly in busy periods. Lights and helmets are provided, but no special clothing is required. Adventure Caving to selected Wild Caves (group pre-booking essential) is also available.

CONTACT NUMBERS : Wombeyan Caves are managed by the Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust. Mailing Address: The Manager, Wombeyan Caves, P. O. Box 18, Taralga. 2580. Telephone: (02 ) 4843 5976, FAX: (02) 4843 5988.