Observe the upgrades

“This project is a great win for local tourism, and the new outside exploratory deck will provide a wheelchair accessible covered seating area with unobstructed views of the beautiful scenery only found in the Warrumbungles,” said deputy premier and minister for regional NSW Paul Toole.

“The funding will also help provide an expanded visitor experience, with a new holographic display featuring never-before-seen astronomy content, new interactive displays for visitors, and jaw dropping views that tourists will love.

"Coonabarabran has something special on offer in the Siding Spring Observatory and this funding will help further showcase the natural beauty of this region, and the world-leading astronomical research undertaken here by the Australian National University.”

Observatory manager Robert Brookfield said he is excited and thankful to the NSW government for supporting the Elevate Siding Spring Observatory Project.

“This project will revitalise the visitor experience by upgrading and enhancing the visitor centre, which, in conjunction with unique behind the scenes tours, will improve the visitor experience and boost local tourism,” Mr Brookfield said.

“The project includes upgrading the exploratory with modern interesting and interactive exhibits which will promote the science performed at the observatory, and an exploratory deck with covered seating showcasing views across the Warrumbungle’s.

“With these and other enhancements to Siding Spring Observatory, the project will help draw additional visitors to the Warrumbungle region, we’re very excited about the impact that the facility upgrade will have in sharing this unique place with visitors while learning about Astronomy, and exploring the region.”

The upgrades have been made possible by the NSW government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund round two.