Walgett

Introduction

Walgett is an area that is often overlooked by tourists, but it has a rich cultural history that is worth exploring. In this article, we will highlight some of the best galleries, museums, and historical venues in and around Walgett, New South Wales.

Galleries

Walgett has several galleries that showcase a range of art pieces. The following are some of the most recommended:

1. Warrego Watchman Art & Crafts

This gallery is located on Fox Street in Walgett. It stocks a range of arts and crafts pieces made by local artists. The works include pottery, paintings, and sculptures. The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.

2. Ngemba Ngurunga-Girrii Aboriginal Art Centre

This art centre is located on Wee Waa Street in Walgett. It showcases the works of Ngemba and other indigenous artists from the area. The art centre is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4.30 pm.

3. Hothouse Theatre Company

This gallery is located on Castlereagh Street in Walgett. It showcases the works of local theatre artists, including plays, music, and dance. The theatre is open for shows during specific seasons.

Museums

Walgett has several museums that showcase its rich history. The following are some of the most recommended:

1. Walgett & District Historical Society Museum

This museum is located on Wee Waa Street in Walgett. It showcases the history of the area, including its indigenous peoples, early settlers, and agricultural industry. The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm.

2. Lightning Ridge Opal & Fossil Centre

This museum is located on the Grawin Road in Lightning Ridge. It showcases the area's opal mining industry, including the fossils and opals found in the region. The museum is open 7 days a week from 8 am to 5 pm.

3. Collarenebri Pioneer and Historical Village

This museum is located in the Pioneer Park on the Castlereagh Highway in Collarenebri. It showcases the history of the area, including the early pioneers and the indigenous peoples. The museum is open on the 1st Sunday of each month from 9 am to 12 pm.

Historical Venues

Walgett has several historical venues that are worth visiting. The following are some of the most recommended:

1. Walgett Courthouse

The courthouse is located on Fox Street in Walgett. It was built in the 1880s and is a prime example of colonial architecture. The courthouse is now used as a community centre for local events.

2. Lightning Ridge Historical Mining Site

This site is located on Pandora Street in Lightning Ridge. It showcases the history of opal mining in the area and includes a replica mine shaft that visitors can explore. The site is open 7 days a week from 8 am to 5 pm.

3. Brewarrina Aboriginal Fish Traps

These fish traps are located on the Barwon River in Brewarrina. They were built by the indigenous peoples over 40,000 years ago and are the oldest known man-made structure in Australia. Visitors can explore the fish traps on foot or by boat.

Conclusion

Walgett has a rich cultural history that is worth exploring. The galleries, museums, and historical venues in the area offer visitors a glimpse into the area's indigenous and colonial past. Whether you are interested in art, history, or natural wonders, the area has something to offer everyone. So, the next time you are in the area, make sure to check out some of these great venues.