Lucknow’s Wentworth Mine tells the story of goldmining in the Central West, with more than 100 years of history on display, since gold was discovered there shortly after Australia’s first payable gold was found at Ophir in 1851.

In recent times, the site has been renovated and for the last 18 months there has been a working blacksmith display in one of the buildings. 

After the previous smithy moved on, the council is looking for someone to fill the role.

“It’s added to the colour and atmosphere of a visit,” mayor John Davis said.

“We’re looking to develop the blacksmithing display in a different building than before, so we’re also looking to tap into the new blacksmith’s expertise as that new direction is explored. It’s an important ­­­­­focus for the village community and a good drawcard to encourage travellers to break their journey and perhaps visit another local business in Lucknow.”

The council’s restoration of the historic Wentworth mine at Lucknow over recent years has been a successful exercise.

The mine is open on the first weekend of each month and staff are on hand to welcome visitors and talk to them about key points of interest.

Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour around the site to view the equipment store, blacksmith shop, stamper battery, secondary shaft and the mine manager’s cottage among other things.

Expressions of interest regarding the blacksmith role close on Friday, May 27.

bryson.ferreira@fairfaxmedia.com.au