Lightning Ridge, one of NSW's most northerly towns lies just off the Castlereagh Highway, 75km north of Walgett. The town is well known for opal mining and jointly serves as the centre for the surrounding primary industries. Plenty of opal activities on in and around the town - designated fossicking areas, underground mine tours and opal cutting demonstrations can be arranged. Also of interest are the local Hot Artesian Bore Baths, opal shops in town and the peculiar aeroplane near the Lightning Ridge hotel motel.

Population: 1,900
State: New South Wales
Postcode: 2834
Name Origin: Apparently gained its name after a shepherd, dog and 600 sheep were killed in an electrical storm while sheltering on a nearby ridge.
Pronunciation: Light-ning Ridge
Location: 744km north-west of Sydney
Local Government: Walgett Shire Council
Main Roads: Castlereagh Highway (4km west) 
Main Watercourses: None
Radio Stations (Music): Now FM (91.3), Triple J (99.9) 

Photos from Lightning Ridge (Click on thumbnail for full sized image):
 

	Looking north along the Castlereagh Highway as it approaches the Lightning Ridge turnoff (2003).
	Morilla Street, heading east into Lightning Ridge (2003).
	Unusual flying bus outside the Lightning Ridge hotel motel (2003).
	Morilla Street, looking west in Lightning Ridge (2003).
	Typical opal and tourist shop along Morilla Street, Lightning Ridge (2003).
	Opal Street, looking north in Lightning Ridge (2003).