In this Episode we hear interviews from people in Grawin NSW featuring stories, memories and reflections about the Grawin area Opal Fields. This cluster of opal fields can be found in a remote area about 70 kilometres west of Lightning Ridge, accessed via the small village of Cumborah, 30 minutes northwest of Walgett.
The Grawin Opal Field, established in 1908, saw a surge in activity with the discovery of the "Light of the World" opal. The town grew to cater to the influx of optimistic prospectors. The Grawin Club in the Scrub, built by locals, became a social hub alongside the Glengarry Hilton and Sheepyard Inn. Another rush in the early 1980’s has kept Grawin alive! Everyone dreams of their big opal find and some just love living in this remote moon scape!
Join us at the opal fields of Glengarry, Grawin, and Sheepyard. Located near Lightning Ridge, these fields offer a unique glimpse into the life of an opal miner.
Episode Features:
Dr. Mary Anne Jebb guides us through the rich history of the Grawin Opal Fields.
The "Club in the Scrub" was buzzing with activity on our visit. We heard fascinating stories from locals like Kath, Paul, Paris, Lance, Teddy, Dave, and Sandy about life on the opal fields. Their passion for opal mining and their community spirit were truly fascinating. Opals will seduce you!
Sue, the vibrant owner of the Sheepyard Inn, not only runs the place but also cuts her own opals! Join us as she shares her passion and insider knowledge about these precious gems.
..More yarns from the opal fields..ratters, cash, characters!
Irene, a passionate opal enthusiast, shares her journey from a newcomer to a seasoned fossicker. She's been hooked on the thrill of the hunt for 24 years now! Irene talks about the unique energy of the opal fields, the dizziness of excitement, and the addictive nature of the search. She's truly connected to her work, and her passion is contagious.
Get ready to meet Sam Mehan, a real-life opal hunting legend! She's been around opals her whole life, growing up on the fields and even starring in the TV show "Outback Opal Hunters." Sam's passion for opals shines through, and her confidence and creativity have helped her build an amazing business.
Explore Grawin further:
https://www.explorelightningridge.com.au/Plan/Maps/Grawin-Glengarry-Sheepyard-Opal-Fields-Map-Car-Door-Tour
Club in the Scrub: https://www.facebook.com/@theclubinthescrub/
The Sheepyard Inn: https://thesheepyardinn.godaddysites.com/
The Glengarry Hilton: https://glengarryhilton.com/
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Special thanks to Dr. Mary Anne Jebb
You can find a number of her published works including “Our Mob Served: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories of war and defending Australia” (2022), “Burlganyja Wanggaya” (2012) and “Singing The Train” (2014) and award winning “Blood, Sweat and Welfare. A History of the White Bosses and Aboriginal Pastoral Workers” (2002) from great book retailers.
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Thanks to all the Grawin Opal Field participants!
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Thanks to Colleen O'Brien and Martin Trama for their Season 3 Voice Overs
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The Outback Outloud Podcast was designed and produced by Signal Creative’s Emma Hoy and Caroline Wallace. Outback Outloud is an ongoing project collaboration between Signal Creative and our principal partner Outback Arts. The Outback Outloud community project and workshop series was designed, managed and delivered by Signal Creative. Special Guest team member in 2024 is Dr. Mary Anne Jebb. Outback Outloud is funded by Create NSW and Outback Arts.
Podcast Audio Production, Music and Sound Design by Emma Hoy
Podcast Audio Editing Assistant is Caroline Wallace
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The views, information, or opinions expressed during the Outback Outloud Podcast series are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Signal Creative and Outback Arts 2024.