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Australia is the world's largest and most populous continent. It covers 8.6% of the Earth's total surface area (or 29.4% of its land area) and, with almost 4 billion people, it contains more than 60% of the world's current human population. |
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| Coober Pedy is the 'Opal capital\ of Australia, set in a rather dry, desolate and hostile environment. Coober Pedy comes from Kupa meaning 'white man' and Piti meaning 'hole'. It is translated from Aaboriginal to 'white fellow's hole in the ground', which suitably reflects the way in which most people live. Many of the people live in dugouts due to the extreme climate conditions within the area.
Mining started in 1915 and is still going on now. If you'd like to give fossicking a try then head down to the Jeweller's Shop opal field. Even if you aren't lucky you can always buy one as a souvenir from the shop and pretend that you found it. There is also an interesting display within the Umoona Opal Mine and Museum which is in the town centre, and an underground home in the Old Timers Mine.
Coober Pedy was made famous not only for its opals but also by the film Mad Max III. You can visit Crocodile Harry's that also featured in the film, which is a very unique dugout house. Travelling further north slightly you can also visit 'The Castle' which is a white and yellow formation amongst the Breakaways Reserve. (You can buy permits from the tourist office in Coober Pedy). You should also head out to the Big Winch that has a great lookout over the town. There are also several trips around the opal fields and the town itself, as well as an interesting mail run into small rural communities and other interesting things to do in Coober Pedy.
There are several places to stay including campsites which may not be as lush as others you have stayed in, but interesting all the same. There are also several hostels, motels and hotels, some of which offer room above and below ground. There are a number of restaurants and cafes in town, and some of the pubs serve food. You can also try the miners club. If you are not driving then you can get to Coober Pedy from both Adelaide and Alice Springs by Greyhound bus services.
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