Mt Isa

Mt Isa is a mining town in every sense of the word with Mt Isa Mines situated right in the town. The shopping centre is virtually on its doorstep. This is one of the largest lead-silver mines in the world.

 

 

 

Driving into The Isa the first thing you see as you come through the valley in the red hills that surround the town is the smelter stacks. The tall stack is the highest free standing structure in Australia.

 

 

 

 

The structure on the left is above an underground mine that is open for tours. After donning neck to knee overalls, a hard hat, boots & head lamp with battery pack (about 3kg) to attach to your belt We entered into a lift & descended 30 mts underground.

Guided through the myriad of tunnels that all look the same to us the guide explained & demonstrated various bits of equipment including a simulated explosion. Turning off the headlamps you could not see your hand an inch from your nose. A good tour - not for the claustrophobic!

 

 

The town is situated in a cauldron of red hills. It was 34deg when we were there so I can imagine summer would be oppressive & outdoor living impossible. Lake Moondarra is a nice man made water park not far from town. Unfortunately no camping allowed out there.

 

 

 

 

The caravan park in town was an experience. Some of the "locals" living over the back fence had a big party first night we were there. Music went to 4am then some shouting & obscenities from other neighbours to "Shut the f... Up" for another 10 mins while the 100 or so dogs living in ear shot thought they would also join in at that stage. At least the music collection was a good mix of new & old country, it was just that I didnt feel like joining the chorus of Bar Room Roses at top decibel at 4am.

The park had lots of trees & dirt. While amenities were clean there were a lot of orders on signs. eg.

Don't use bent coins in machines you won't get a refund. (They were also the most expensive washing machines we have encountered)

*Don't ring bell out of hours for refund of key deposit . No refund will be given.... & so on.

After the serenity of the night on the lake this was a complete contrast. All part of the experience & the vanners in the park had a common talking point in the morning.

This sign post is on top of the lookout & with all due respect to townspeople I think even the South Pole would be preferable at times.

The Rodeo in Mt Isa is the third biggest in the world - now that would be an experience! I'd like to be there for that!

 

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