We have moved on and now heading more to the East. The first place we pull into is Cranky Rock. Thank goodness for Wiki camps to find these little hidden gems.
Cranky Rock turn off is 5km east of Warialda, off the Gwydir Highway, the 3 km sealed road will take you all the way to Cranky Rock where you will find a jumble of giant boulders heaped in the most fantastic positions by a past volcanic upheaval, features include a suspension bridge, birdlife and wildlife sanctuary and, a viewing platform. Facilities include picnic areas, a large shelter with free barbecues, public toilets and a children’s playground. There is a full time caretaker and kiosk on site and should you wish to stay overnight or even longer there is a campground with powered/unpowered sites and hot showers available.https://www.warialdansw.com.au/cranky-rock-recreation-reserve
We also had a visit to The Chamber of the Black Hand. This is a must on any trip to Lightning Ridge. Phill has a great chat with Ron, who started out opal mining but then turned is hand into carving, you will be amazed at what you will see underground. Also you can shop for opals while there.
Welcome! Forty feet underground , images carved and painted in the sandstone walls and pillars. This is your chance to tour this claim which has been worked since the early days of opal mining in The Ridge.
Chambers of the Black Hand has the only opal shop underground. As opal is Australia’s national gemstone, don’t miss out on this great experience. Our map location in Lightning Ridge, NSW is on the 3 Mile Road, 5klms up opposite yellow car door 7.
Check out the website for more information. https://www.chambersoftheblackhand.com.au/
We move on after a couple of lovely days and head to Bingara,
Bingara, known as the “Gem on the Gwydir”, is a great place to visit. Bingara has clean air, clear skies and a great climate. A great little town blessed with natural beauty. Surrounded by hills, the town rests in a natural amphitheatre. The spectacular Gwydir River, the life blood of the town, pulses through Bingara’s heart. Its beauty is indeed priceless.
Whilst here we camped along the river, through on entry read the signs carefully as at times this river can rise rapidly and has been known to take a van or two that get caught. We parked on the higher side and the view was lovely, can be a little chilly. You may even be lucky to see the odd horse or three roaming around. Speaking of horses we met John Wade.
Wade Horses Bingara (formerly Gwydir River Trail Rides) have been offering guided trail rides along the banks of the Gwydir River for more than 20 years. Locals, visitors, learner riders wanting riding lessons and anyone else smitten by a love of horses and horse riding have come, and keep coming back, to enjoy the ride of their life in one of the most beautiful areas of the region.
Locally owned and operated Wade Horses Bingara boast an excellent team of horses which includes gentle, heavy horse breeds able to carry the largest and smallest riders. From 6 years of age up, all riding abilities can be accommodated as the experienced staff match the mount to the rider’s ability. First time riders through to experienced riders who enjoy a canter or gallop in a safe environment are guaranteed a great time! https://www.bingara.com.au/things-to-do/bush-activities/horses/
