Walgett
Must do
- Lightning Ridge
- Outback NSW
- Bourke
Adventure around Walgett
Known as the gateway to the opal fields, Walgett has several opal fields located to the north-west of town via the village of Cumborah. The famous “light of the world” opal, weighing almost half a kilo, was found here in 1928. Try your hand at fossicking in the area.
About Walgett
Walgett is in a prime Outback NSW location, on the Namoi River near the junction of the Barwon River. The fertile black soil plains of the region support farming and grazing including wool, cotton, wheat and sheep. Walgett is the gateway to the opal fields of Lightning Ridge, Grawin, Glengarry and Sheepyard.
The late 19th century saw a boom in the wool industry and Walgett served as a port for paddle-steamers working the Murray-Darling river system. Things to do in the area include fishing for Murray cod and yellowbelly in one of the eight rivers in the area and enjoying the experience of life at an outback station.
Gallery
-
Lightning Ridge opals
Opals from Lightning Ridge
-
Namoi River
Namoi River near Walgett. Image Nick Rains
-
Opal mining
Opal mining at Lightning Ridge. Image Nick Rains
Travel tips for driving in NSW
Before travelling by road in NSW, make sure you check Live Traffic NSW for updates and important traveller information. For detailed local visitor information in the towns and regions of NSW, check with relevant Visitor Information Centres. Most Visitor Information Centres will be able to assist you with information about local attractions, advice on accommodation, day trip suggestions, advice on transport and touring, and free Wi-Fi access.
NSWTips: Final call, time to make your booking to experience the NSW Outback http://t.co/fbP0OAMD #Outback #NSW
Thu, 24 May 2012NSWTips: Learning to fly in New South Wales with @JohnONolan http://t.co/IG1qYsag #flying #NSW
Thu, 24 May 2012See all our latest videos on Youtube.
Escapes newsletter