Last 2 days in Lightning Ridge

Yesterday morning we booked a tour of the property owned by Suzie and Mel, the bush poets and comedians who perform at our caravan park. Wasn't too sure what to expect, apart from scones.
Well there were scones but much much more as well. The property was originally owned by local artist John Murray. A very interesting tour of the property and info on opal mining was to be had. Finished with outback scones and tea and a comedy show. Mel was at one time Australia's top rated female bush poet and competed all around the country. Once again, would highly recommend this if you are in this neck of the woods.
We were all inspired after the tour and went to John's gallery to purchase some art.
Today Graham and I completed another two of the car door tours (which we learnt yesterday were put together but John Murray). We saw some really quirky houses made from bottles and cans. Some people here have a lot of time on their hands, and obviously drink a lot. Graham should be able to construct one in our backyard.
Stopped at Amigo's castle, which was single handedly built by an Italian immigrant from ironstone boulders he carted in the back of his ute. He piled 44 gallon drums on top of each other to use as scaffolding for the top of the castle. I imagine he was also in thongs. He built on mining land so the council were going to make him pull it down, until they saw it and could see the tourism potential. Easy fix - just change the town's boundaries. It's now in town.
Met an interesting local who owns a cactus nursery. Rugged local opal miner whose wife does nails so he sported colourfully decorated nails.
And now it rains. We are under the gazebo trying to stay dry, and wet Ruby is trying to get in our van. Not on your Nellie Ruby! But it could be worse, we could be at Mundi Mundi Bash. 🌧Read more