The road to reopening has been a long and treacherous one for Jenolan Caves but the end is finally in sight. The iconic natural wonder will reopen to the public in 2027 for the first time in years.
Fires, floods, and global pandemics have seen Jenolan Caves closed more days than open since 2020. Transport for NSW, Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water have been working together to repair the roads, caves, and infrastructure in the Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve.
While road repairs are progressing, Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust are delivering a major program of upgrades and maintenance across the precinct. Among the works being undertaken are infrastructure upgrades, including culverts and drainage, to improve fire, flood and geohazard resilience.
Construction of a new Blue Lake boardwalk has been completed to create a brand-new accessible experience as well as general upgrades to tracks and trails throughout the reserve.
Restoration and refurbishment of historic Caves House is also nearing completion with new ensuites and air-conditioning in guest rooms installed plus improved accessibility throughout the buildings.
Most excitingly of all, more caves will be open to the public to tour and explore than ever before.
Nationals Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the reopening of the famous tourism destination was great news for the region.
“Jenolan Caves has been one of our region’s greatest natural treasures for generations, drawing visitors from across Australia and around the world so seeing work well underway to prepare this iconic destination for reopening is an exciting milestone for our region,” Mr Toole said.
“Reopening Jenolan Caves will not only reconnect people with one of our state’s most spectacular natural wonders, but also provide a significant boost to local businesses, jobs, and the wider regional economy.
“This project represents a tremendous collaborative effort, an incredible amount of work has gone into this project, and I want to acknowledge and thank the enthusiastic and dedicated team behind all the upgrades.
“Whilst Two Mile Road is back to a driveable condition, it will not be reopened to public access. Instead, visitors will be transferred down to the caves via a shuttle bus system and a new carpark installed at the top of Two Mile Road.”
Mr Toole has been strongly advocating for alternative access since a feasibility study was commissioned under the former NSW Government. It revealed a mono-cable detachable gondola, similar to the one used at Taronga Zoo Sydney would be a suitable solution.
“A gondola from Two Mile Road to Caves House is a no brainer solution to long term access to Jenolan Caves,” Mr Toole said.
“Not only does this resolve financial and geographical difficulties, a gondola will add to the magical experience of Jenolan Caves and offer a new perspective as visitors glide down the valley.”
An exact reopening date will be provided in the coming months as Jenolan Caves Reserve Trust finalise plans.
