Last week I paused our 'round Australia mining holiday while we were standing amongst the mulga of South Australia, in the opal fields to be exact, so this week we can continue our trek from there across the great expanse of the Nullarbor.
But first I'd take a moment to thank those avid readers of old CrossCut Clyde who wrote in and offered sound advice on the regions they think are must-visits.
Now again, I must say that I am not the greatest of travel authorities, and I can only relate my journeys as a supplier and those areas which made an impression on me throughout my career.
Of course, I have not covered all the land by any means, so for those who are miffed or otherwise that I haven't not included your favourite spot, then apologies in advance.
Phew, is this being part of the politically correct scene in this day and age? What's so wrong in saying, "sorry mate, I can't be everywhere, so like it or lump it'.
So where were we … that's right, in the land of the 'crows'. Andamooka is yet another fine example of outback mining heritage and the opal shafts dot the region like massive anthills.
The town is also nestled in an old creek bed, and when the rains come the main street becomes a wild torrent.
Australian opal is unique and so are the wonderful towns and characters that dig them out of the ground, be it the colourful permanent residents or casual drop-ins seeking a quick dollar.
Not far from Andamooka, you must take a detour through the major town – which one day may be a city like Mount Isa – Roxby Downs, which services Olympic Dam.
The township is sitting on more than a gold mine, a mine of mega-proportions that is a wonder to behold.
Yours truly was on the scene in the 1980s when Olympic Dam first became a household name, and I had the pleasure of indulging in a round of golf on the new course, what we called playing the scrapes – which is a funny name for grassless greens.
That was back then, and I'm sure there are a few real grass greens these days in Roxby Downs, but I suggest any golfer wishing a challenge in the outback mining towns should try out their skills at this course.
It's time to say goodbye to South Australia and head west to the state that has become synonymous with mining.
So after umpteen hours of playing 'I-spy' we finally hit the junction which takes us in one way to Kalgoorlie and another way to Kambalda.
Now at this time I have to say whichever way you go, take your time, learn to suffer the flies with the old West Aussie wave, and have a good look around.
I reckon too many people head to Kalgoorlie, drive up Hay Street thinking they're going to catch a glimpse of the oldest trade in the world posted at every corner and head out again.
And how wrong they are. There are not too many other towns in Australia that can boast such wide streets – all because of camel trains, folks. They're hard to turn around, you know.
But there is so much to see and do.
Now I will let you in a little secret, folks. My first wife – well she still is after 34 years – and I travelled the Nullarbor by train on our honeymoon, east to west, and upon arriving in the early evening were told in those days that there was "nuthin to see, but Hay Street is a must".
It turns out that back then Kalgoorlie wasn't quite the place it is now, but the wonderful thing about the mining industry that it keeps creating history and will continue to do so.
And if you're interested in history, you must visit the magnificent Australian Prospectors and Miners Hall of Fame – which wasn't around on my honeymoon.
While other wonderful historical mining towns around Australia have their tales to tell, there is simply nothing that comes near to this.
I know others have tried but the people and companies of Kalgoorlie became one and made this place happen. It is a symbol of what was, what is and no doubt what will be for future generations to look and reflect upon. A truly Australian icon … well in our industry at least.
And now where has the road gone? Next week we should be able to dip our toes in the Indian Ocean, so stay tuned.
