Lithgow

Lithgow is a town situated in the Central West region of New South Wales, Australia, within the City of Lithgow local government area. The town lies approximately 125 kilometres west of Sydney and serves as a gateway to the Blue Mountains and the Main Western railway line. Lithgow is part of the Southern Highlands statistical region and is renowned for its historic industrial heritage.

The area was first settled by Europeans in the mid‑19th century, primarily due to its proximity to the Blue Mountains and the discovery of coal. The arrival of the Main Western railway in 1869 accelerated its growth, making Lithgow a crucial rail hub and a centre for coal mining and steelworks. The Commonwealth Steel Company operated a large steel plant until its closure in the 1980s, after which the site was redeveloped for industrial and residential use. Since the late 20th century, tourism and small‑scale manufacturing have become key sectors of the local economy.

Lithgow’s population has fluctuated over the decades, with a 2021 census recording roughly 6,400 residents. The town is characterized by heritage buildings, including the historic Lithgow railway complex, the Lithgow Gaol, and the old Adi War Memorial Hall. It also hosts the Lithgow Art Museum, which highlights local Aboriginal art and community history.

Transport links connect Lithgow to Sydney via the New South Wales Northern line and to surrounding towns by road. The town is served by several bus routes and the Main Western railway station, which offers passenger services to and from Sydney and Dubbo. Public amenities include schools, a hospital, sporting clubs, and parks, reflecting a community that balances its industrial legacy with contemporary residential life.