Explore Adelong: map and experiences
Explore Adelong
The unique collection of stone ruins is located in a picturesque gorge through which the Adelong Creek flows. The stone ruins are what remain of one of the most innovative gold processing mills in Australia.
The owner builders James Wilson and William Ritchie were ingenious in the construction of the mill by building it on the steep slope to the creek using gravity to feed the gold bearing ore through the processing mill that comprised stampers, chillian mills, amalgamation tables and berdans.
This mill contributed significantly to the economy of the colony of NSW. WH Slee inspector of mines wrote in the NSW Mines Dept Annual report 1876 “The mill is one of the best, if not the very best on the gold fields of NSW”.
Entrance to the Adelong Falls precinct is free however gold coin donations are welcome. Donations to the conservation appeal are tax deductable.
The ruins are located in a 24ha reserve where well made paths and tracks take the visitor through the ruins along the creek and through sections of the reserve.
A viewing platform provides a comprehensive view of the ruins and good interpretive signage provides information on the mill and the history of gold mining in the Adelong district.
Two large car parks accommodate coaches. Disability access to the platform is via the lower car park.
Adelong Creek is a designated fossicking area and also has several popular swimming holes.
A feature of a trip to adelong is to follow the Self Guided Walking Tour along the Adelong Creek.
The 2 km walk of an easy gradient is very pleasant and takes visitors past some of the early houses and miners cottages of Adelong and along the creek to the gold mill ruins.
Features of the mining activity are identified along the walk. Once in the Falls reserve a network of paths connects the ruins for those with a little more time. The self guided tour leads through the ruins and provides a brief explanation of how the mill operated.
FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
The Adelong Gold Fair is held each year in Adelong on the last Sunday in April.
The National Trust Heritage Festival at Adelong Falls is held in April each year.