ALL THAT GLITTERS

Humans have been attracted to shiny things — from gold and silver, to diamonds and pearls — since ancient times. Long surrounded by romance, superstition and skullduggery, a chance discovery of the tiniest fleck can instigate a chain reaction that can be felt across the globe.

The discovery of gold in 1851 near Bathurst in New South Wales set Australia’s first gold rush in motion, drawing diggers from the UK and Ireland, California, China and Poland, and forever changing the cultural landscape. Over the following decades the discovery of other precious gems, metals and minerals lead to boom-and-bust towns across the country.

While some industries have dulled, others are shining brighter than ever. Here are eight experiences to add to your itinerary.

GOLD — BATTERY HILL MINING CENTRE, TENNANT CREEK, NT

Located between Alice Springs and Katherine, Tennant Creek is a popular stopover on the Stuart Highway. Known as the ‘golden heart’ of the Northern Territory, this outback town was the site of Australia’s last major gold rush (in the 1930s). It was once home to two legends — the El Dorado Mine, which produced