Outback

The area behind the pretty town of Bourke to the far west of New South Wales is known as the outback. It is possible to travel around here, although you should check the roads before commencing your journey and carry plenty of supplies with you. The hottest place in New South Wales is Tibooburra which is in the far north western corner.

From Nyngan just south of Bourke, the main highway leads west. If you want to get to Western Australia from Sydney the Barrier Highway is the most direct route, also providing access to Adelaide. West of Nyngan and south of Bourke is Cobar is a busy copper mining town, with pretty and historic buildings lining the streets. Mt. Grenfell isn't far and has a selection of Aboriginal cave paintings.

Bourke Old Post OfficeSouth west of Bourke also along the Darling River is Wilcannia another old port, which is now quietly just presenting its history through its pretty buildings. There is also an opal mining community just north of here at White Cliffs where you can join in the action of fossicking for opals.

NyngenBetween here and Broken Hill on the South Australia border s the Mootwingee National Park. The beauty of this area and the wildlife is absolutely spectacular. There are a number of Aboriginal carvings and rock paintings, although you have to go on a guided tour to see them. There are also some pretty rock pools where you can swim and cool down.

The old silver-mining town of Silverton is just west of Broken Hill, and now a ghost town. However, it has seen some action in recent years, as the setting for a couple of films including 'Mad Max II' and 'A Town Like Alice'. The hotel is still running, and several buildings still stand. There is also a unique 'Silverton Test' which you should ask about at the bar.

South east of Broken Hill are the Menindee Lakes and backed by the Kinchega National Park. Water sports are popular on the Menindee Lakes, whilst the action on the water within the national park is due to the plentiful birdlife and wildlife. South east again from here is the Mungo National Park. Many archaeological findings were found here as the now dry Lake Mungo used to be the life source of the Aboriginal people who lived here. The large white cliffs that are in the park are known as the Walls of China which look stunning when the sun shines on them. You can stay in the national park in one of the campsites or the lodge, which is worth the experience.



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