Fast facts
- Outback desert and the Menindee lakes
- Famous as a mining town and for its artists
- 14 hours’ drive west of Sydney
Why go there
Known as the Silver City, Broken Hill was built on the world’s largest silver, lead and zinc mine run by Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited (BHP), now Australia's largest mining company. These days, Broken Hill offers much more than mining tours and museums.
Just outside the city, this special slice of the outback comes alive with its distinctive, clear light and expansive vistas, which have inspired and continue to inspire hundreds of artists and photographers. Look out for top-class art galleries that include collections by the Brushmen of the Bush.
Silverton, the setting of several Australian movies, is also popular with artists, with a friendly but quirky pub. At Menindee, you can marvel at the contrast between the lakes and the surrounding desert – a real oasis.
Things to do
- Stroll around the spectacular Living Desert Sculptures, atop a hill overlooking the city.
- Listen to a lesson on radio/satellite at the world’s largest virtual classroom, School of the Air in Broken Hill.
- Do the "test" at Silverton Hotel, a secret challenge that raises money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
- Go birdwatching around Menindee Lakes.
- Admire ancient Aboriginal rock art and engravings at Mutawintji National Park.
Don’t miss
- A sunset stroll around the Living Desert Sculptures.
- Outback landscape artwork at the City Art Gallery, or the eclectic Pro Hart Gallery.
- The Big Picture, the world’s largest acrylic painting on canvas, at Silver City Mint and Art Centre.
Events
- Outback 4x4 Challenge, Broken Hill, in May.
- Silver City Show, Broken Hill, in September.
- Silver City Race Meeting, Broken Hill, in November.
- St Patrick’s Day Races, Broken Hill, in March.
