Gulgong is set to be the home of one of the world's most significant private fossil collections thanks to a major investment from the NSW Nationals' Regional Tourism Activation Fund (RTAF).
Nationals Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders has announced $3 million for Mid-Western Regional Council to build the Gulgong Natural History Museum.
"Gulgong is well-known for its historic charm, and this project builds on that," Mr Saunders said.
"This funding will deliver a museum to house 'Michael Durrant's Wonderful World of Fossils Collection', including interactive activities, a café, shop, and amenities.
"It will provide huge benefits for Gulgong, supporting the economy and local jobs as more people spend at cafes, restaurants, hotels, motels and shops."
The new architecturally designed building will provide an exhibition space to display 'Michael Durrant's Wonderful World of Fossils Collection', which includes an extensive fossil display, full-size Dinosaur display, and 200-million-year-old Dinosaur Prints and rare bat fossils.
Mid-Western Regional Council Mayor Des Kennedy said the new facility will offer a one-of-a-kind exhibition and experience.
"We're thrilled to receive the funding for this very exciting project, which will see Gulgong extend and diversify its trademark history offering," Cr Kennedy said.
"Gulgong has fantastic facilities like the Gulgong Gold Experience, the Gulgong Pioneers Museum, the Henry Lawson Centre, and most recently, the Gulgong Holtermann Museum, all celebrating the rich colonial and gold mining history.
"The Gulgong Natural History Museum will provide yet another interactive experience for visitors and locals alike. I'd like to thank the NSW Government for its investment in this fantastic new facility."
Round Two of $180 million Regional Tourism Activation Fund focuses on accelerating the development of high impact tourism and events infrastructure that will increase the international appeal of destinations in regional NSW and boost the visitor economy through increased visitation and job creation.
