Home of the Somerville Collection

Opened in July 2004 the museum is an example of a local council leading the development of a world-class cultural facility, in conjunction with stakeholder and partner organisations.

Bathurst Regional Council provided the skills and expertise of its staff in planning and overseeing the development of the new Museum. The project involved negotiating the donation of the internationally renowned Somerville Collection of fossils and minerals, restoring an 1876 heritage-listed building, refurbishing it with museum-standard fittings and services and creating engaging and visually spectacular displays of the specimens.

Funding for the project came from all three levels of government, corporate sponsorship and philanthropic donations. Many local businesses and community members, recognising the significant impact the Museum would have on tourism and the cultural life of the region, made both cash and inkind donations to the project.

Visit www.somervillecollection.com.au for further information on the Museum.