Parkes

Parkes is a charming town that is known for its beautiful countryside, rich history, and vibrant culture. This town is located approximately halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, making it an ideal stopover for travellers exploring the eastern coast of Australia.

One of the biggest attractions in Parkes is the Parkes Observatory, affectionately known as ‘The Dish’. It is one of the world's leading radio telescopes. The antenna is a 64-m diameter parabolic dish used by the CSIRO for radio astronomy. Built in 1961 it featured in the first moon landing, relaying television pictures to a waiting world. The telescope functions both day and night but is probably best viewed under a starry sky.

I can highly recommend the visitors centre where you can learn about the history of the observatory and the science behind radio astronomy, as well as take a guided tour of the facility. If you have kids, there’s plenty to keep them amused.

Another must-see attraction in Parkes is the Henry Parkes Museum, named after one of Australia's most famous politicians and pioneers. This museum showcases the life and achievements of Henry Parkes, as well as the rich history of the town itself.

Mungo National Park

Mungo National Park is a unique destination. A place of great natural beauty, rich history, and deep cultural significance.

History of Mungo

Mungo National Park is one of the most important archaeological sites in Australia, with a rich history dating back tens of thousands of years. The park is home to the Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, two of the oldest human remains ever discovered in Australia. These discoveries have helped to shed light on the early history of human occupation in Australia and have provided insights into the cultural practices of Australia's first peoples.

Aboriginal Significance

Mungo National Park holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Australia's Indigenous peoples. The park is located on the traditional lands of the Paakantyi people, and its cultural and spiritual significance is deeply ingrained in the local community. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the park's rich cultural history, including its traditional use and management, as well as its spiritual and mythological significance.

Highlights for Visitors

• Explore the stunning landscapes of Mungo National Park, including its ancient sand dunes, rich wetlands, and stunning deserts.
• Learn about the park's rich history, including its archaeological and cultural significance, at the Mungo Visitor Centre
• Take a guided tour of the park, including the Walls of China, an ancient sand dune system, and the Main Area, where the Mungo Lady and Mungo Man were discovered.
• Enjoy a picnic or barbeque in one of the park's many picnic areas, or camp overnight and witness the stunning outback stars.
• Participate in a ranger-led activity, such as a guided walk or stargazing experience, and learn more about the park's ecology and wildlife.

Lightning Ridge

Lightning Ridge is a small town located in the outback of northern New South Wales best known for its unique and stunning black opals.

History

The history of Lightning Ridge dates back to the late 1800s, when a shepherd stumbled upon the first black opal in the area. This discovery sparked a rush of miners and prospectors, leading to the establishment of the town and the birth of a thriving opal mining industry. Today, Lightning Ridge is home to one of the largest and most productive opal fields in the world, attracting visitors from all over the world to admire its stunning gems.

Highlights for Visitors

• Visit the local opal fields and try your hand at fossicking for your own opals
• Admire the unique and stunning black opals at the Lightning Ridge Opal Mines
• Take a dip in the Artesian Bore Baths
• Explore the historic town and learn about its rich history at the Lightning Ridge Historical Society & Museum

Broken Hill

The parched and barren landscape of Broken Hill is a unique destination that offers a rich blend of history, art, and natural beauty. The city is known for its scenic desert landscapes, silver-mining heritage and showcases the works of local and regional artists.

One place not to miss whilst in Silver City is the living desert sculptures. Started some 20 years back, the installation was the brainchild of Gosford-based sculptor, Lawrence Beck.

My favourite of the many beautiful sculptures has to be Antonio Nava Tirado’s sculpture titled ‘Bajo El Sol Jaguar’ which translates to ‘Under the Jaguar Sun’. Antonio is an Aztec Indian from Mexico City, Mexico.

The best time to visit the symposium is at sunset. With 360-degree views from this prominent hill location it’s bound to be a brilliant end to your day.

Silverton

Silverton is a historic town located only half an hour by road from Broken Hill. It has a rich and fascinating history, dating back to the mid-19th century when it was established as a thriving silver-mining town. The town was once one of the most important mining centres in Australia, and its heritage is still evident today in the many historic buildings and monuments that remain. It also gained fame by hosting the early Mad Max films. You can see plenty of evidence of this in the Silverton Hotel.

Highlights for Visitors

• Explore the historic streets of Silverton, including its many historic buildings, monuments, and murals
• Take a tour of the famous Silverton Hotel, one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in the town
• Check out some of the local artists galleries
• Visit the Silverton Gaol Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the town's history and heritage
• Admire the stunning landscapes of the surrounding outback, including the Mundi Mundi Plains
• Participate in a scenic drive or walk, including the Silverton to Broken Hill Heritage Trail, which takes visitors on a journey through the town's rich history and natural beauty

Menindee Lakes

About 100km southeast of Broken Hill lies Menindee Lakes, a chain of shallow ephemeral lakes connected to the Darling River providing the region’s largest freshwater storage system.

A submerged forest at Lake Pamamaroo makes for a vivid and unfamiliar landscape. I waded into the shallow lake to get the best perspective of the trees. Any excuse to get wet on a sweltering 45-degree day!