Mining enthusiasts, history lovers or anyone in need of a fun weekend getaway are being encouraged to visit Cobar for the annual Festival of the Miner's Ghost next month.
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Despite the drought, festival organisers are hoping the offer of a "unique experience and festival that no one else has got" will entice visitors to spend time and money in Cobar.
"This is something for the locals to look forward to and it's a way for us to express what we can offer in Cobar and show people the history of our town," Cobar Shire Council tourism manager Demi Smith said.
Most of the festival takes place from October 25 to 27 but activities officially kick off on October 22 with a Cobar Arts Council exhibition.
"On the Friday of the festival we have our lost miners event at the Mining Heritage Park," Ms Smith said.
"There we remember the mining history of Cobar and pay respect to people who have lost their lives in the mines.
"After all the formalities we have a barbecue and music in the park. That has been a massive drawcard in previous years."
Cemetery tours, night markets, a fireworks show, surface mine tours and night markets will also take place during the festival.
"We've got dancers coming from both our local dance studios and we've got about 28 market stalls confirmed at the moment," Ms Smith advised.
A mini mining expo is a new addition to the festival, which was first held in 1999.
"The CSA Mine have come on board and they're going to do a rock drill demonstration," Ms Smith said.
"Peak Gold Mines are going to do a mine rescue in the park and we've got all different sorts of exhibitors and food and drink stalls.
"We've got some novelty games like gumboot throwing and we're also trying to get as many people as possible to wear hi-vis clothing to the event so we can capture the moment and get as many people in one place."
According to Ms Smith, the name of the festival name came after locals reportedly sighted a ghost in Cobar.
- To find out more information call the Great Cobar Heritage Centre team on 02 6836 2448.
