We have decided that a two night stop at Broken Hill is in order so that we can recharge batteries (both human and technological), do washing, dry out the gear, stock up, and see something of the area. I think it was Carolyn that first dubbed us the “drought breakers” because everytime we go camping it rains. Well – it is still holding true thus far. All of the gear seems damp – so we are hoping for a couple of good drying days to rectify this situation.
We are staying at a caravan park here in Broken Hill – bit of a luxury in order to have a hot shower and do some washing. Have had a walk around the town (beautiful buildings), checked out the art galleries for numerous famous Broken Hill artists – as per Rosemary’s recommendation (I wonder what it is about this landscape that inspires such wonderful artistic endeavour?) , sampled the local Bells milk bar thickshakes and sundae’s (50’s style milkbar), bought / swapped second hand books for Ethan, and walked up the hill to visit the living sculpture garden at dusk.
Whilst walking around the town we befriended a family that were staying at the Palace Hotel (the hotel used in the filming of Pricilla Queen of the Desert). This hotel also has the longest cast iron verandah in the state (another useful fact for trivia nights). The family smuggled us in so we could see the artwork first hand – this has to be one of the highlights so far for me – I know I am tragic!!! Have been singing the Pricilla soundtrack since our visit to the hotel. (check out the photos)
Continued to do the “touristy thing” and have done an underground mine tour at the historic DayDream silver mine that was in operation from 1882 until 1983. The tour guide (an ex BHP miner himself) was really informative about the mine and its workings. It gave us all a real sense of what life was like for miners in the late 19th century and how difficult and dangerous mining was at that time. 8 year old boys were used to work in the mine – Ethan was particularly interested in that fact.
Apparently the line of Lode in Broken Hill is the richest deposit of silver, lead and zinc in the world. The ore body which is shaped like a coat hanger – is 7.5 kms long and 250m wide. Over $100 million dollars has been generated from this ore body with many more years of mining anticipated. I did try to ask BHP for a donation to fund our trip but unfortunately they weren’t interested.
