Adaminaby

Adaminaby is nestled amid the gently rolling high plains of the Snowy Mountains region in New South Wales. The town combines a defining history with opportunities to discover its culture, landscape and outdoor activities.

A town whose history is closely linked to the Snowy Scheme

Adaminaby was established as a planned community in the early 1960s. It became home to residents displaced by the construction of Lake Eucumbene. Earlier, on 17 October 1949, the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme was officially launched in the old town of Adaminaby. These distinct milestones are part of a history visitors can explore at several places around town.

The Snowy Scheme Museum is dedicated to the achievements of the Snowy Scheme workers and their families. Its historically significant collection includes more than 6,000 objects. It offers a tangible glimpse of the people behind the project. Visitors interested in community history and the changes brought about by the construction of Lake Eucumbene will find a dedicated focus for their stay here.

Walking trails, art and local discoveries

The Adaminaby Heritage Trail passes through the community’s historic residential and cultural centre and includes seven stops. For a history-focused walk, it offers a different way to explore than the Adaminaby Town Walk, which takes around 40 minutes. Depending on your available time and interests, you can choose between a series of stops exploring local history and a town walk.

A striking attraction is Adaminaby’s iconic Big Trout: the fibreglass sculpture is 10 metres high and was designed by local artist Andy Lominici. Barbecue facilities, a playground and public toilets are located near the sculpture. The playground offers families a dedicated place to visit, while the listed facilities add practical options to a trip to see the Big Trout.

Arts and crafts are also among Adaminaby’s discoveries. Old Post Office Arts and Crafts is a community-run shop selling locally made art, crafts and photographs. At the Adaminaby School of Arts and Community Hall, the Adaminaby Curtain depicts the town, Lake Eucumbene and the mountains. The curtain was designed by local artists James Meverley and Barbara Gough. You can view it by arranging an appointment by phone with the Hall Manager.

Active days out around Adaminaby

The community’s public swimming pool has a large, shaded toddlers’ pool and a main pool. It’s a practical option for a day focused on water and swimming. If you’d rather spend time on the green, head to Adaminaby Golf Course, a unique nine-hole course in the High Country.

Fly fishing, spin fishing, trolling and bait fishing are all possible around Adaminaby and Lake Eucumbene. Fishing tackle, boat hire and fishing charters are also available. The different fishing styles offer a range of options, while boat hire and charters provide additional ways to explore. Flights can be arranged at Adaminaby Kennedy Airfield for an aerial view of the landscape.

Visitors can also travel from Adaminaby to Selwyn Snow Resort for snow experiences. Activities there may include skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding and snow drives. If this is part of your holiday plans, consider this travel option when deciding whether to stay in Adaminaby. For a holiday in the community itself, the Heritage Trail, museum, swimming pool and fishing are among the experiences that can help you decide what to focus on.

More destinations: Thredbo Village, Ingebirah, Moonbah, Jindabyne, Providence Portal, Beloka, Kosciuszko National Park.

Return to the main travel overview: Snowy River Shire Council.