Lightning Ridge, Opal mining town in New South Wales, Australia
The settlement sits near the southern border of Queensland, featuring underground mines that produce rare black opals with blue, green, and red reflections.
The area received its name after a lightning strike killed a shepherd and his flock in the 1870s, before Charles Nettleton discovered opals in 1902.
The Yuwaalaraay people maintain their connection to the land through exhibitions at the Goondee Keeping Place, displaying Aboriginal artifacts and historical records.
The Walk-In Mine at Bald Hill offers daily underground tours with an opal jewelry showroom, allowing visitors to learn about mining techniques.
The Chambers of the Black Hand contains 500 carvings within opal mining tunnels, including a recreation of The Last Supper beneath the earth.
Location: New South Wales
Location: Walgett Shire
Location: Wallangulla
Elevation above the sea: 149 m
Shares border with: Dirranbandi, Collarenebri, Goodooga, Cumborah, Angledool, Walgett
GPS coordinates: -29.43333,147.96667
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:26
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