We arrived in Broken Hill last Saturday. Made our way to the Info Centre and left the bus there. Did a Heritage Walk around the main streets looking at all the old buildings and that was enough for one day. I did mention that we would return to do a couple of Art Galleries that we had walked past and Rick wasnt impressed!!!!!!!!! There wasnt a Motor Museum dedicated to oldies or a Hot Rod Shop so, his enthusiasm was at an all time low.
You know you are in the Outback when you have to slow down for emus, stumpy tales and frilled neck lizards, all of whom seem to want to cross the road when we were approaching them. Loved it.
Of course its all about mining. In 1885 a syndicate of 7 men formed Broken Hill Proprietary Limited - BHP. To date the Iron Ore mined here has generated $100 billion. Broken Hill is Australias longest living mining city. BHP Billiton is the worlds biggest mining company.
The big seat overlooking the town of Broken Hill.
One of a number of sandstone sculptures at the Living Desert Sanctuary
Our favorite place in Broken Hill. Forget the arty stuff, we loved this original Milk Bar. Stuffed full of memorabillia, took us on a stroll down our childhood/teenage years. Of course we indulged in Blue Heaven Milk Shakes (what memories) and vowed to go back for an Ice Cream Sundae.
Yes, thats how Rick was feeling. We did a Mine Tour. Travelled underground, thru very steep and very very low roof lines. Helmets and battery packs for lights were a necessity. It was a very good tour, enjoyed it very much, even though it felt quite alarming with such small spaces between roof and floor. Doubled over a number of times. But by the time we surfaced, our legs were screaming as it was quite steep and we were gasping for air on top. So unfit
Broken Hill is all about Mining of course, but there are also more than 30 Art Galleries here as well. We did a drive out to Silverton. A town made most famous for the number of movies that have been filmed in and around the area. The Silverton Pub is iconic. The place was packed with us tourists. We walked around the town for a couple of hours, did a couple of galleries, but for the most part, wasnt at all impressed with the place. Thought it would be far more interesting than what it was. We have also checked out the local wreckers but didnt find anything for Rick. Last night we had a sunset tour, followed by wine and cheese. Tonight we have a welcome dinner as our Safari officially starts today. Broken Hill has been interesting. 4 days is long enough. Time to move on.
The first official day of the Safari was Tuesday. We had a wonderful big 3 course dinner, provided by Legacy, followed up by a massive big breakfast the following morning. The menu - Bacon, eggs, sausages, hash, tomatoes, toast, coffee, tea, juice, cereal, and fesh fruit. Once again provided by Legacy. Its a wonder we could move on after those two feasts. Every vehicle is given an official No. The very first day you had to leave according to your No. We were No. 52 (there were only 53) and so we were 2nd to last to leave the Racecourse. Naturally we got to the next camp a little faster than many. Not a lot to see between stops, except there was a huge amount of fresh road kill, mainly big red kangaroos, which was sad and lots of hawks waiting to feast. A few small blink and you will miss them towns. Our official camp spot is the Yunta Racecourse. 5 of us walked into town, about 20 mins away, stopped at the pub for drinks and then made our way back in time for happy hour. A big communal happy hour, some comedians amongst the group and some music. Nice way to end the day. Every day there is either a communal happy hour or individuals, so that you can get to know your fellow travellers in smaller gatherings. From tomorrow onwards, you dont have to leave at your alloted No. but whenever you are ready to go. You call up on the CB, let them know you are off and then make your way to the next destination. You can stop as many times as you like for smoko, lunch or wander off the track for sightseeing as long as you are at the camp spot by a designated time or let the "sweep team" who are the last motorhome in the line know your whereabouts. We have a pub dinner lined up for tomorrow night. The last Safari drank the hotel dry, so we have a reputation to uphold.!!!!!!!! Judging by the fellow Rvers, it wont be hard.
