White Cliffs
White Cliffs is just a short drive from the magnificent Darling River (and the Darling River Run). Famous for Opal, White Cliffs is a must see outback town located a few hours from Broken Hill and the wonderful Mutawintji National Park. Ever wanted a great night sleep without ANY ambient noise or light and not sure how to do it? Well, the answer is at White Cliffs. With the exception to a few essential travellers' services, most of White Cliffs is underground and it is a truly remarkable experience; even for those who may baulk at the underground experience. White Cliffs is an easy 1 hr drive from Wilcannia (sealed road).
About White Cliffs:
White Cliffs is Australia's oldest Opal field (seam Opal) and developed from a chance finding of Opal in the 1880's by a group of kangaroo shooters. Its population peaked in the late 1890's at around 5,000 and started to decline after WW1 and now boasts a population of around 200.
The early days were harsh; outback heat, water shortages and lack of building materials sent the population underground. Today, the underground town works very well for locals and traveller; the scarcity of water that the early settlers experienced is solved nowadays with extensive use of rainwater tanks. This plus a classic Outback Pub means the traveller will not go thirsty.
The famous Australian cricketer Bill O'Reilly (1905-1992) who Don Bradman referred to as the greatest bowler he ever faced, is White Cliffs favourite son; his father was a school teacher in White Cliffs.
White Cliff Visitor Information:
Visitor Information Centre:White Cliffs General Store Telephone: 08 8091 6611 |
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