Height
5 meters
Year Built
1985
Address
Hutchison Street, Coober Pedy, SA 5723
The Lowdown
The Big Winch at Coober Pedy is a tribute to the mining heritage of the opal capital of the world. This massive piece of mining equipment represents the technology that has allowed miners to extract precious opals from deep underground since the 1915 discovery that transformed this remote desert location. Coober Pedy produces most of the world's gem-quality opals, and the Big Winch honors the miners who work in extreme conditions - including the famous underground homes where residents escape the searing surface temperatures.
Did you know?
"Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C"
History
Opal was discovered at Coober Pedy in 1915, and the town has produced most of the world's gem-quality opals since. The Big Winch represents the mining equipment essential to extracting these precious gems.
More Fun Facts
- •Coober Pedy produces most of the world's opals
- •Many residents live underground to escape the heat
- •The name comes from Aboriginal 'kupa-piti' meaning 'white man's hole'
- •Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C
- •Underground churches, hotels, and homes are tourist attractions
Visiting Tips
- 💡Stay in an underground hotel for the unique experience
- 💡Tour working opal mines
- 💡Buy opals directly from miners
- 💡Visit the underground churches
- 💡The drive from Adelaide takes about 8 hours
Opening Hours
Outdoor display accessible at all times.
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