Although it is technically an isolated mining city, Broken Hill has more to see and do than many places. It is quickly becoming a tourist destination rather than focusing on the mining industry and is also a locally and internationally known spot for art as well. Spending time in Broken Hill, New South Wales is more than just coming to an old mining area, it is like coming to a beautiful jewel that begs your inner artist to come out and be inspired.
Demographic and Geographic Information
The town is located in the far west outback near the border with South Australia. The closest major city is Adelaide. The world's largest mining company, BHP Billiton has roots in this town and mining was the major industry here for many, many years. The economy is no longer driven by mining since metal prices declined in the 1990's and hurt the industry, leading to the shutdown of several of the local mines. There are a few that are still in existence, including those that give public tours, however tourism and the local arts scene are becoming more dominant for the locals and is bolstering the economy.
The temperatures and climate can be extreme, with temperatures climbing well past 40 degrees C (104 F).
Things to Do in Broken Hill
Despite the isolation and the high heat, Broken Hill remains a beautiful place and offers a wide range of interesting and fun things to do for couples and for families on vacation. The nightlife is very vibrant in the town, and many of the local clubs and dance spots are open into the wee hours so that you can listen to your favorite music and shake your groove thing, if that is your taste. If not, there are other, more family friendly ideas which include: the Silverton Camel Farm, Cobb and Company Coach and Wagon Rides and the School of Air.
Art by Hart
If art is more your thing, you can find plenty of stunning paintings and sculptures, especially those of Australian artist, Kevin "Pro" Hart. The Pro Hart Gallery and Sculpture Park contains not only Hart's artworks but those that he has collected as well. One of the features here is the Rolls Royce that he painted in a unique way.
Interesting Houses
Another unique feature of Broken Hill is the homes that feature corrugated iron walls. While there are many homes in Australia that feature corrugated metal roofs, there are not many that have iron walls.
Movies
If you would like to get a look at the scenery that has been featured in movies, Broken Hill is the place for you. The movies Adventures of Pricilla, Queen of the Desert and Mad Max 2 (The Road Warrior) were all filmed here.
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