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Big Trout 2024 — Image credit: Pete Wilson - Australian High Country Photography

Landmarks and Buildings

The Big Trout

The Big Trout is one of Australia's most recognisable roadside attractions and a beloved symbol of Adaminaby's identity as a premier trout fishing destination. Standing an impressive 10 metres high and weighing approximately 2.5 tonnes, the monument depicts a giant rainbow trout leaping from the water in a lifelike pose. Constructed from fibreglass over a steel and wire-mesh frame, its detailed scales and vibrant colouring reflect the trout that thrive in nearby Lake Eucumbene and the surrounding alpine waterways. Built in 1973 by local artist and keen fisherman Andy Lomnici, the sculpture was created to celebrate the region's reputation as one of Australia's finest trout fishing destinations. More than just a novelty attraction, the Big Trout has become an enduring icon of the Snowy Mountains, welcoming visitors to the town and symbolising the community's connection to fishing, tourism and the alpine landscape. It remains one of Australia's earliest and most famous "Big Things" and continues to be a favourite photo stop for travellers exploring the region. The Big Trout underwent a restoration project in 2024 by Sydney-based mural painter Ryan Loughnane.

Adaminaby NSW

7.7 km away

Surveyors camp — Image credit: Snowy Scheme Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Snowy Scheme Museum

The Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme commenced construction in 1949 and was completed in 1974. The Scheme has a story to tell like no other in Australian history. Set on a grand scale, it was a project ahead of its time, a perfect stage on which our post-war migrant workforce could perform. The Scheme includes massive irrigation systems feeding off the Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers to generate clean renewable energy for the eastern States. The community-based undertaking to establish a Snowy Scheme Museum in Adaminaby, came to fruition on 15 October 2011, with an opening ceremony attended by the Governor General, Quentin Bryce. Its historically significant collection of in excess of 6000 iems which include machinery, vehicles, tools, instruments, laboratory equipment, artworks, maps, books, engineering drawings and documents. The Snowy Scheme Museum highlights the achievements of the Scheme construction workers and their families, the ingenuity, construction techniques and machinery, and the role the project played in the development of twentieth century Australia. The museum provides a multi-dimensional insight into the greatest engineering project ever undertaken in Australia and a monumental chapter in Australia's history.

Adaminaby NSW

7.8 km away

Lake Eucumbene

Natural Attractions

Lake Eucumbene

Located approximately 40 kilometres from Cooma at its closest point is Lake Eucumbene in the beautiful Snowy Mountains. It sits at an elevation of 1200 metres above sea level making it a pristine alpine lake. The closest town to Lake Eucumbene is Adaminaby. The dam construction was finished in 1958 creating the largest of the Snowy Scheme lakes. It holds around nine times the volume of water that Sydney Harbour does. This lake is one of the best fisheries in the Australian Highlands holding rainbow trout, brown trout and Atlantic salmon, the lake is regularly re-stocked with trout by NSW Fisheries which makes it a mecca for trout fishermen. In the summer months, there is a wide spectrum of sporting, freshwater fishing and tourist activities that are available all year round in the Snowy Mountains region of the Mount Kosciusko National Park.

Adaminaby NSW

15 km away

Yankee Hat Aboriginal Rock Art site

Natural Attractions

Yankee Hat

The Yankee Hat Aboriginal Rock Art Site is located within Namadgi National Park in the Gudgenby Valley. The rock art site and rock shelter is accessed via a 6.5 kilometre, 3 hour return walking track. Stroll through expansive grasslands, over a crystal-clear creek, and ever-present mountain views. View the rock art from a specially constructed steel viewing platform. The site also features interpretive signage and an elevated boardwalk. The self-guided walk starts from the Yankee Hat Carpark on Old Boboyan Road. The Yankee Hat Rock Art Site features some of the earliest rock art identified in the ACT. The figures in the rock shelter were painted over a period of hundreds or possibly thousands of years, as evidence from the site suggest that First Nations people were camping in the area as long as 3,700 years ago. The Yankee Hat Aboriginal Rock Art Site is protected. It is an offence to damage, disturb or destroy Aboriginal heritage places including objects. The Ngunnawal people ask that others respect the cultural protocols they have developed for Namadgi. Make sure you do not touch the art or the rock surface as oils from your skin will damage the paintings Visit the Namadgi Visitor Centre for the latest track conditions, weather updates, local information and detailed maps before embarking on any bushwalk. Drinks and snacks are available.

Tharwa ACT

21 km away

Kiandra heritage track

Natural Attractions

Kiandra heritage track

Kiandra Heritage Track is currently closed due to bushfire alerts. Take a beautiful and fascinating walk into the history of Kiandra, home to one of the shortest gold rushes in Australian history. Lasting from November 1859 to March 1861, at its peak in April 1860, up to 8,000 people were staking their hopes on the Kiandra diggings. Within a few years, they had given up and the population of this remote mountain town had stabilised at just 350. The short self-guided walk starts at the former courthouse, in the Kiandra Heritage precinct, and there are plenty of signs along the way to find out more about the history of the area and what life might have been like in this historic town.

Kosciuszko National Park NSW

26 km away

Cooma Golf Club

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Cooma Golf Club

Cooma Golf Club is an 18 hole golf course with bent grass greens and top class fairways and teems with abundant birdlife and wildlife. Enjoy the magnificent views across the rolling plains of the Monaro and out towards the mountains from the clubhouse and the course itself. Golf carts and equipment are available for hire. Cooma Golf Club is situated just three kilometres off the Snowy Mountains Highway, on the way to the beautiful fishing lakes, and of course the ski fields.

Cooma NSW

34 km away

Kiandra heritage precinct — Image credit: DPIE

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Kiandra heritage precinct

Kiandra heritage precinct is open, but all precinct buildings remain closed due to severe fire damage. Kiandra was the birthplace of snow skiing in Australia and saw the shortest and coldest gold rush in 1860. A convenient stop along the Snowy Mountains Highway, its heritage buildings and walking track provide insights to the fascinating stories and life in the high country during the 1800s and early 1900s. Kiandra is also known as an access point to the renowned Australian Alps walking track, and many of central Kosciuszko National Park's walks, cycling and horse riding trails, fishing and camping spots.

Kiandra NSW

35 km away

Wild Things Anatomy — Image credit: Wild Things Anatomy

Spas and Retreats

Wild Things Anatomy

Leah and the Wild Things Anatomy team use the tools of breathwork, cold exposure and time in nature as the catalysts for freedom, contentment and a change in perspective for people’s lives. From two-hour workshops to six-day retreats and expeditions, these techniques will help you conquer the first level of spheres in your life – your mind, body and spirit. As a certified Wim Hof Method instructor, Leah has taught all around Australia and worldwide, including alongside Wim Hof himself in Thailand. She has also taken workshops in Europe and the USA. Leah has taught and trained mental health teachers and sufferers, athletes for optimal performance, doctors and scientists, people with autoimmune conditions, corporate clients, motivational speakers, and those wanting to simply improve their well-being.

Kosciuszko National Park NSW

35 km away

Entrance to the mountain bike trails at Mt Gladstone

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Mt Gladstone Mountain Bike Park

Located 3.5 kilometres west from Cooma, Mount Gladstone MTB Park offers 10 kilometres of purpose-built mountain bike trails through the scenic Monaro landscape. Riders can enjoy a variety of trails suited to different experience levels, with flowing tracks, natural terrain and panoramic views across the surrounding countryside. The park is a great way to experience Cooma's outdoors, with trails suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for an active adventure close to town. The lookout on the top of Mount Gladstone offers views of the Monaro Plains, the extinct volcanoes called 'The Brothers' and the Snowy Mountains.

Cooma NSW

36 km away

Cooma from Mt Gladstone — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Natural Attractions

Mount Gladstone

The Mount Gladstone Lookout and Nature Reserve sits in 125 hectares of native bushland less than four kilometres from the edge of Cooma township and offers magnificent views across the Monaro Plains and to the peaks of the Snowy Mountains from the two easily accessible viewing platforms. The Mt Gladstone Nature Reserve is also a popular spot for walkers and mountain bike riding. Maps can be found at the Cooma Visitors Centre. There are toilets and barbecue facilities available along with car and coach parking.

Cooma NSW

36 km away

Native Flora

Natural Attractions

Cooma North Ridge Reserve

Cooma North Ridge is a beautiful reserve of approximately 80 hectares with many tracks and trails to explore. Whether seeking a peaceful hike or simply a place to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, the north ridge provides a tranquil and scenic retreat. It's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with walking trails that provide scenic bush exploration. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find plenty to admire, as the area is home to a variety of local wildlife, and flora such as the different varieties of native orchids. The reserve is managed by a passionate committee who form the 'Friends of North Ridge Reserve'. The committee meets regularly and often hosts various events such as group walks, trail maintenance days and weed removal working bees. Download the walking map online or visit the Cooma Visitors Centre for a hard copy.

Cooma NSW

36 km away

Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre — Image credit: Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre

Explore the Snowy Mountains and the mighty Snowy Scheme. Take a virtual tour in a state-of-the-art immersive theatre. Experience how Snowy Hydro operates today and find out about the pumped-hydro expansion mega project, Snowy 2.0.  Hear stories from former workers and the current workforce about life on the Snowy. Recharge at the Discovery Cafe with a range of fresh, delicious bites and treats. Then, explore the Discovery Shop for innovative science and STEM-themed products.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre — Image credit: Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre

The Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre showcases work by the region's established and emerging artists, from painters to ceramicists, potters, sculptors, jewellers, craftspeople and artisans. Throughout the year the Raglan hosts numerous prestigious exhibitions including those for NAIDOC, Student Artscape, and the annual John Briscoe Awards competition. Its growing reputation also draws artists from interstate and overseas to exhibit in Cooma. The Raglan hosts regular art classes and workshops and stocks a range of gift items and cards. Built in 1854 by James Hain, the building was licensed as the Lord Raglan Inn. It was named after Lord Raglan who commanded in the Crimean War. It was also Cooma's first bank, a private hospital, a family home, and now an art gallery. The Raglan still retains some of the original 100-year-old gardens and is supported by Volunteers, art lovers and the Snowy Monaro Regional Council.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Kosciuszko Monument — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Tadeusz Kosciuszko Monument

The Tadeusz Kosciuszko Monument was a bicentennial gift from the Federal Council of Polish Associations in Australia to the town of Cooma. Located at the northern entrance to Cooma the monument commemorates the discovery and naming of Mount Kosciuszko, and the contribution of Polish settlers to the Snowy Mountains Scheme. There is an information turnout, and coach and car parking is available.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Nanny Goat Hill Lookout — Image credit: Nicole Plummer Cooma Visitors Centre

Natural Attractions

Nanny Goat Hill Lookout

Perched above Cooma, Nanny Goat Hill Lookout offers sweeping panoramic views of the town, the historic Royalside precinct, and the surrounding Monaro grazing country. Part of the heritage-listed Lambie Town Walk, the lookout is home to a distinctive nanny goat sculpture created by local artist Chris Graham and is a popular spot to enjoy Cooma's history, scenery, and spectacular sunsets.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

function

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cooma Car Club Motor Museum

The Motoring Museum is the newest attraction. Combined with the main clubhouse, the Cooma Car Club is the perfect venue for other car clubs who use the extensive facilities created by members to hold their national events. Incorporated in 2002 as the Cooma Monaro Historic Automobile Club Inc., The family-oriented Club is open to all vehicle models and makes and other motoring of interest that are 30 years and older.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Cooma Little Theatre Entry — Image credit: Cooma Little Theatre

Entertainment Venues

Cooma Little Theatre

Cooma Little Theatre is the heart of live performance in the Snowy Monaro and the region's only dedicated live theatre. Established in 1955, this volunteer-run, not-for-profit community theatre has entertained audiences for decades with a diverse program of plays, musicals, comedies, dramas and family productions, alongside touring performances, concerts, film screenings and special events. Located on Monaro Avenue in Cooma, the theatre offers an intimate and welcoming venue where visitors can experience local talent and enjoy quality live entertainment. Whether you're attending a performance or taking part in a production, Cooma Little Theatre is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates creativity and community.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Street view — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

NSW State Correctional Museum

The NSW State Correctional Museum is located at Cooma in the Snowy Monaro region of New South Wales. Adjacent to it stands Cooma Correctional Centre and other historic buildings. There are often new features or additions to the museum such as the new permanent 'Caring for the Incarcerated’ exhibit. If the history of crime and punishment or Australian history in general interests you, then the museum in Cooma is just the place for you to visit. The museum displays a collection of objects relating to punishment and crime from the mid-19th century such as manacles and leg irons, convict and prisoner clothing, weapons and escape devices, photos and visual documentation. Minimum security inmates are the tour guides through the museum with stories from convict period, great escapes and the gaol system today. Inmate art and craft is on display with handmade items available to purchase from the gift shop. There's a handy caravan street parking section at the front and wheelchair access is available throughout the museum.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Cooma Courthouse — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cooma Courthouse

Step back into Cooma's fascinating history at the historic Cooma Courthouse, an exceptional example of Victorian Mannerist architecture built from locally quarried stone. Designed by renowned Colonial Architect James Barnet in 1885, the grand courthouse features a striking arched entrance, beautifully detailed courtroom and coffered ceiling. Set within formal landscaped grounds, the courthouse has remained in continuous use for more than 120 years, reflecting Cooma's importance as a regional centre during the growth of the Monaro's mining and agricultural industries. Explore the impressive architecture and discover an important part of Cooma's heritage. The courthouse is also featured on Cooma's historic walking trail, offering visitors the opportunity to admire its impressive architecture as they explore the town's heritage. Discover this remarkable building and an important part of Cooma's history.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Norris Park — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Parks and Gardens

Frank Norris Park

Frank Norris Park, commonly known as Norris Park, is a peaceful green space in Cooma, offering a relaxing place to enjoy the outdoors. Established as a memorial park in 1966 through the efforts of the Cooma Rotary Club, the park features open lawns, picnic seating, public barbecues, accessible public toilets and a covered gazebo. Norris Park is also the starting point for the Cooma Creek Walk and Cycleway, a flat, paved and accessible route following the tranquil Cooma Creek. Along the reserve, visitors can enjoy native birdlife and insects, with 15 exercise stations located along the path. The accessible route is suitable for wheelchairs, prams and families, with dogs welcome on leads. A wheelchair-friendly pathway, ramp and dedicated accessible parking space were developed through a partnership between the Cooma Lions Club and Snowy Monaro Regional Council.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Avenue of Flags and Mosaic Time Walk — Image credit: Nicole Plummer Cooma Visitors Centre

Parks and Gardens

Cooma Centennial Park

Centennial Park, located in the heart of Cooma, was originally designated as the town's market square in 1849. Today, it is a popular community gathering place, combining local history with family-friendly recreation. The park features the Music Shell, built in 1959 as a sheltered entertainment venue, and the Avenue of Flags, commemorating the 27 nations whose workers contributed to the Snowy Mountains Scheme. Visitors can also explore the Cooma-Monaro Time Walk, a series of mosaics depicting the region's history, created in 1988 by local artist Chris Graham in collaboration with students from the local TAFE. A sculpture of the Man from Snowy River stands on a granite boulder near the Cooma Visitors Centre, while The Shearer by sculptor Rix Wright is located in the park's northeast corner. Centennial Park is well equipped for families and travellers, featuring a large adventure playground with a dedicated toddler area, picnic tables, expansive open grassed spaces, and a partially fenced play area. Amenities include a baby change room, a bus shelter, and plenty of shaded areas, making it an ideal place to relax, enjoy a picnic, or let the children play.

Cooma NSW

37 km away

Lambie Street Cooma — Image credit: Cooma Visitors Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Lambie Heritage Town Walk

Step back in time and discover Cooma's rich history on the self-guided Lambie Town Walk. Explore the town's most significant heritage landmarks on foot, by bicycle or by car, using the trail map available from the Cooma Visitor Information Centre. The five-kilometre trail winds through residential streets, parklands and historic precincts, showcasing the people, places and events that have shaped Cooma. Established by the Goulburn Lands Office in 1985, the walk is named in honour of John Lambie, Commissioner of Lands. Along the route, you'll visit the three National Trust-recognised Heritage Areas: the Court House precinct, dating from the 1860s; Lambie Street, Cooma's original commercial centre; and Church Hill, home to an impressive collection of nineteenth and twentieth century churches and educational buildings. The walk also features many of Cooma's most notable landmarks, including Centennial Park, the Avenue of Flags, the Time Walk Mosaics, the Cenotaph, the historic Cooma Gaol and the Southern Cloud Memorial.

Cooma NSW

38 km away

Sandys Grooming Tails K9 Cafe

Shopping and Markets

Sandys Grooming Tails K9 Cafe

A dog's dream! This little shop is unique and very charming, full to the brim of quality dog accessories, health, wellbeing and foods plus some beautiful nifty giftware by their local artist. The best thing of all is you can bring your dog! Or if you don't have a dog and you need a "dog fix" you can cuddle theirs, there is always one hanging around looking for love. With loads of fancy, homemade and all-time favourite dog treats, they can even have a puppucino at the on-site cafe! The dogs and humans can also be spoilt with barista-made coffee, shakes, smoothies, and sweets or even indulge in Kimmy's famous scones and jam. Sit down or just hang out with the very friendly team who are just as crazy about dogs as you, they are also professionals when it comes to anything doggo.

Cooma NSW

38 km away

Professor Thomas Leech Blue Plaque edit — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Professor Thomas Leech Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Professor Thomas Leech who was a renowned professor and head of the Scientific Services Division of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme, one of the largest engineering projects in the world at the time. Visit the blue plaque at SMEC Fluid Mechanics Laboratory, 220–226 Sharp St, Cooma NSW 2630 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Cooma NSW

38 km away

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