Day 5 - Lightning Ridge

Foggy morning, went to the Tourist Information Centre and bought a map to do the 'Car Door' tours around town. 5 different coloured Car Doors for varying places. We went to a 'Walk In Mine' $20 ea which was really interesting, put on our Hard Hats and only had to go 30 steps down. Had stories, videos and photos throughout the mine, then went back up to a free coffee and video on the workings once they got the dirt above ground for mining Opals. Well done exhibit, small shop at the entrance selling uncut rocks (mixed bag $520) and polished pieces some over $3000 - lucky I don't love Opals.

Then off to Amigo's Castle - took a bit to find as someone had stolen the Red Car Door. Amigo built the whole place by himself with rocks he picked up along the roads, no plan, no council approvals, just kept adding as he went. Had a couple of shafts for mining out the back to get an income, he doesn't live there now but the last piece he built he was 73 which was a 60ft well. He obviously had a great sense on humour judging by the plaques around the property and was a hoarder of old equipment.

We went to the Bowls Club for Lunch. We had to sign up as Members, (mandatory) which gave us discounts on drinks. Meals were beautiful - too big....doggy bag for dinner, had a couple of James Squires - shouldn't drink during the day - had to go back to the van for nanna nap.

While we were at lunch we did some planning for the next week. Need to chat to Alex about some of places he went to last year. Will go for another swim in the Artisan Baths later.Read more