Astronomers Monument

I dropped by this place just to have a look and didn't realise the custodian of the place, Ivana, did tours there. Paid $5 and Ivana gave me a very passionate 1 hour tour of the origins of this monument that was built by Alex Szperlak.

Ivana is a larger than life character, in a good way. I was very entertained by her stories throughout the tour.

Please do not try to take photos from outside as it is a private property. If you want to do so please approach the entrance fence and ask Ivana for the $5 tour.

Interesting place built by a man who would have been considered an "outsider". Current custodian Ivana is a little eccentric, very passionate & very authentic. She doesn't put on any airs or facades, but is kind & genuine.
This is not a polished, professional tour or tourist attraction. Treat it like visiting an old friend to catchup on how they've been for the past 10 years.
Looked closed when we approached. We didnt try to take a free photo, but called out to see if Ivana was home and she came out after 5 mins. $10pp which she donates to charity. We spent 1.5 hr there but recommend telling Ivana if you have less time available.

Just visited the Astronomers Monument. The owner was a lovely lady. Very passionate, enthusiastic & loyal to the Polish gentleman who created this quirky/intriguing monument. I found it fascinating!

When myself & my family arrived, it was closed. I walked up to the gate & she was just coming out. She'd just had a plumber onsite, so needed to close.

Entry was $10 and I was given a thorough tour. I asked permission to take photos, & she also suggested photo opportunities.

The Astronomers Monument does have a fence around the property but not high enough for privacy/security. There isn't really a sectioned car park at the front however, if you go up to the fence/gate & speak to her, she'll happily guide you.

I must note; whilst I was there, a couple stood outside the area taking photos, and didn't seem interested in coming in. I found this completely disrespectful & rude. She became quite upset and asked them to stop. In my opinion, if you're genuinely interested in the subject, be respectful and go in, and support the person/people who are doing their best to maintain the tourist attraction for future generations.

She's lovely and I believe she's been misunderstood & mistreated. She deserves support from the local area, to help preserve this Monument for future interested parties like myself.

An interesting tale of a bit of a battler who built the monument, and other interesting tales of the owner of it now and her own battles and humanitarian efforts. There's more to this place than just taking the photo.
It's one of the cheapest things you can do in Lightning Ridge (only $5 for adults, kids are free, just remember to bring cash).
Thank you Ivana for your time, the views from the top where great.

Ivana was a beautiful host! Very detailed tour. Brad Pitt thoroughly enjoyed it.

We really enjoyed our tour by Ivana. Definitely worth a visit. She is a fabulous custodian of the Astronomers Monument. Hope to meet again .. thank you

Two incredible human stories embodied in one beautifully unique building and tour experience. Highly recommended to anyone looking for something different and memorable!

A fascinating building with an equally fascinating history. The current custodian has done her research and the original builder's dream of becoming an astronomer has a tragic and very sad story. Well worth the visit. An extraordinary place. Thanks Silva's for the tour

Truly Unique - Ivana is a interesting character.

My friend and I enjoyed this tour. Lots of information and reasonable at $5. We learnt much about Alex's very interesting life but noo

A unique "attraction" Lady who owns it is passionate and just a little bit crazy... I was glad there was three of us in the group - i thought i at least had a 1 in 3 chance of getting out alive. :-)

Wow, we knew nothing about this monument and thought it would be great to go a take a picture. DON'T DO IT.... Very aggressive lady demanding that we leave immediately and got a "you people" lecture. Didn't matter how many times I apologised she was not having a bar of it. I was very respectful but got none in return. Just had to walk away so she would stop.

Pulled up in our car behind others who were with us and tried parking. Couldn't even get our seatbelts off before the owner came over, banged on our windows and demanded we pay or get off her property. Couldn't get a word out, kids got scared and as we pulled out abuse was yelled out to us about how we are bad parents. A bit strange. It was also a bit scary to the other 2 car loads of family that we were with. I would not recommend. I would definitely steer clear of this place. Especially if you don't like your children and neices and nephews, ranging in age from 2-9 being sworn at. Trip advisor was definitely correct with the reviews posted there.

No access, essentially a concrete edifice built on waste ground that's a council dump site

The lady was paranoid and unfriendly when I stopped to look from the road. Seems like a weird place