Lightning Ridge's Opal and Fossil Centre project has gained momentum following a commitment from Walgett Shire Council for funding of $500,000.
In its most ambitious venture yet, Lightning Ridge is set to create a world-class showcase of glittering opal and incredible opalised fossils from the age of dinosaurs, a fascinating 'learning laboratory' where visitors can experience the excitement and spectacle of world-famous black opal, wonder at evidence of life forms from the past and get a taste of the colourful history and lifestyle of the opal fields.
The Opal and Fossil Centre project (LROFC) had all but disappeared from public view until council voted in 2003 to commit $500,000 over five years to the project.
Since April a project manager has been appointed, a project office established and a range of activities initiated.
A development brief for the facility is currently being drafted by Richard Wesley of Museum Planning Services Australia. MPSA's services have been obtained through the regional Museums Advisory Service program of Museums and Galleries NSW.
The local committee is working with the Department of Mineral Resources, Lightning Ridge Miners Association, Walgett Shire Council, local residents and the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources to finalise a site for the facility.
Tenders have been conducted for architecture and exhibition design and in a coup for Lightning Ridge, internationally-acclaimed architects Glenn Murcutt and Wendy Lewin have accepted their appointment and this month, the committee will select an exhibition design company from among the best in Australia.
"The Opal and Fossil Centre is vital to the future of Lightning Ridge," project manager Jenni Brammall said this week.
"It will be a dynamic hub for tourism, education, and commerce. We're planning the world's best public display of gem opal, the world's best display of our precious opalised fossils, a centre for research and a wonderful resource for the community," Ms Brammall said.
"We're thinking big and investing the time and money it takes to build a truly world-class facility, in an innovative and sophisticated building that will attract international attention."
The development budget is estimated at between $5 million and $7 million.
The recently-opened Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum at Bathurst cost more than $4 million despite being housed in an existing building. While the project is going to take time, the LROFC steering committee is not sitting idle.
A display about the project and the Ridge's opalised fossil will be opened to the public before the end of 2004 at the project office in Morilla Street. A fossil identification service and registry will also be established.
A public meeting will be called next month to provide an update on the project and an opportunity for more community members to give input and get involved.
To join mailing list for Lightning Ridge Opal Fossil Centre, to register suggestions or for more information, contact project manager Jenni Brammall on 6829 1667 or email opalfossil@wj.com.au.
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