LIGHTNING RIDGE
Lightning Ridge is a unique and captivating destination that offers travellers a one-of-a-kind experience. From its renowned opal mine fields to its untamed landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, this tiny town delights visitors from all over Australia and leaves a lasting impression in their hearts.
Lightning Ridge is located 78km north of Walgett and 64km from the border of Queensland on the edge of the Outback in New South Wales.
Travelling from Walgett you will find “Stanley the Emu”, an 18 metre sculpture, waiting to greet you on your arrival. The sculpture was created by local artist John Murray and constructed with the help of volunteers. Stanley is crafted from old VW Beetles and satellite dishes perched upon steel girders.
Throughout the town and surrounding mine fields you’ll discover various murals and unusual creations by various artists. You will find even more local artist’s creations when you visit “Arts and Crafts” in Pandora Street.
There are many things to experience in Lightning Ridge. Whether it’s relaxing at a coffee shop, or having a drink at the pub listening to miners tell their own stories about trying to find the elusive opal.
Join in the festivities at the “Easter Festival’ which has a range of events from “Bull and Bronco” Rodeo, and annual Horse Races, Mining Challenges, Big Dig and Little Dig events plus more fun for the whole family.
July has the international “Opal Festival”, where jewellers, buyers, rock hounds and tourists are invited to experience the best opals. Every second year jewellers compete in the Opal Jewellery Design Awards, to win prizes and the prestige for the best designs.
There are a variety of places to stay, from Caravan Parks, Motels, Glamping, Farm Stays and Airbnb stays in town or on the opal fields. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance whenever possible.
The television show, the “Outback Opal Hunters” has encouraged a new breed of people keen to try their luck opal mining and the freedom of being their own boss.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
The custodians of our land, the Yuwaalaraay people, have welcomed a collective mix of over 50 nationalities (including Serbian, German, Swedish, Dutch and Croatian) that have found their way west. Upon arriving, you will discover a town with a strong sense of community and passion. There are various Dreamtime Stories about how the opal came to be. Lightning Ridge a long time ago there was the most beautiful creature called Pallah-Pallah the butterfly. Her story was an adventure and formed the colours of the rainbow on the dazzling opal stones. Opposite “Stanley the Emu”, on the Castlereigh Highway, marks the spot where Katie and Langloh Parker passed this place by sulky enroute to Bangate Station. They came across the campsite of a shepherd, his dog and 100’s of sheep that were struck dead by lightning. Katie Langloh Parker recorded the event that named Lightning Ridge. She is a renowned published author. To capture further history of Lightning Ridge, visit the Historical Society, located in Morilla Street.
DIRECTIONS
LIGHTNING RIDGE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE
02 6829 1670