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PS Providence historic site

Kinchega National Park

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Overview

Step back in time at the historic site of the explosion of the PS Providence on the banks of the Darling River in Kinchega National Park.

Type
Historic buildings/places
Accessibility
Hard
Entry fees
Park entry fees apply
What to
bring
Hat, drinking water, sunscreen

You might wonder what the lace monitors and bearded dragons make of it, but the rusty hunk of metal on the banks of the Darling River marks the site of a major tragedy. In 1872 the boiler on the riverboat PS Providence exploded, killing all on board except one.

It could have been a mechanical problem, or human error due to a large celebration in Menindee the night before. The only thing that is certain is that the explosion was so loud it was heard in the Kinchega Woolshed, and so powerful that it threw the ship's cook into a tree.

However, as you picnic under the shade of the majestic gums reflecting on the history of the area, the trees will be filled with kingfishers, egrets and black kites instead.

For directions, safety and practical information, see visitor info

 

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A family walk a boardwalk section of Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH.

Conservation program:

Kinchega National Park joint management program

NPWS is working with the Menindee Aboriginal Elders Council to protect the age-old Aboriginal heritage of this region through the Kinchega National Park Memorandum of Understanding and Joint Management Program.

Aboriginal Joint Management, Kinchega National Park. Photo: John Spencer

General enquiries

Operated by

Park info

  • in Kinchega National Park in the Outback NSW region
  • Kinchega National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $8 per vehicle per day. The park has a pay and display envelope payment system - please bring correct coins.

    Buy annual pass
See more visitor info