This week's PhotoHunt theme is "broken".
This mural can be found in Broken Hill, New South Wales. The isolated mining city is located near the border with South Australia. Originally the town was named after the surrounding hills that appeared to have a break in them, though the actual broken hill no longer exists since it has been mined away.
In the mid 1800's several European Explorers passed through the area, but it wasn't until 1883 that the town was established by Charles Rasp who discovered what he thought was tin. However, instead of tin it turned out that Broken Hill was sitting on one of the world's largest silver-lead-zinc mineral deposit. Hence the Silver City was born.
For nearly to 100 years the was town dominated by the mining industry. However, since the heyday of the zinc boom in the 1970's the prosperity and population of the town have been in a decline. The town has attempted to revitalize it's economy by focusing on tourism. It has also become a haven for artists. Murals, like the one above and several art galleries can be found throughout the town.
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first, let me say that your header photo is stunning! what a magnificent place!
ReplyDeleteinteresting info..i like the mural.:p
I guess the secret to the community's survival is "Adapt, adapt, adapt"!
ReplyDeleteSounds very much like so many towns in Upstate New York. Very good photo for the theme!
ReplyDeleteI am a little late in the Photo Hunters visits, but better late than never! Have a blessed weekend.
Hey that really works, and what a great story about the town. Nice work.
ReplyDeleteScott
Was that mural sponsored by Victoria Bitter, by any chance? ;b
ReplyDeleteWhat a great take on the theme! Lovely mural too.
ReplyDeleteExcellent post for the theme. Looks like an interesting place to visit.
ReplyDeleteLuna Miranda, the photo in my header was taken at Cradle Mountain in Tasmania.
ReplyDeleteMudhooks, adaptation is key to survival.
Mrs. Mecomber, you are always welcome for a visit. I am sure Broken Hill shares the same story as many Rural communities across the U.S.
Bull Rhino, when I first saw the topic I was a bit stumped but then I remembered our visit to Broken Hill and knew it was perfect.
YTSL, the mural was a series of several and I have no idea if VB sponsored it. If Broken Hill had been in SA it probably would have been a Coopers!
Candi, I felt the mural fit with the town.
Marta, we have been there a couple of times. The train between Sydney-Adelaide stops there for a couple of hours. Unfortunately, it makes the pit stop at 7 am so not a lot is open. Also, if you want to head into the NSW Outback (like our recent trip) you pretty much have to pass through town if you want to do some of the trip on sealed roads.