Mount Isa Photography by Jemloco Images: Mining Ghost Town - Kuridala {North West Queensland, South of Cloncurry}

Kuridala - Abandoned Mining Town

Listed as the Number 1 Ghost Town in Australia by Australian Geographic

To get to Kuridala, you will need to travel about 10km west from Cloncurry (116km from Mount Isa), along the Barkly Highway (aka The Overlanders Way) and take the road to Duchess (and Dajarra). From this turn off you are looking at about an hours drive.

Take the turn of to Malbon, and continue on until you see an almost unnoticeable sign on the left pointing to Kuridala.

Kuridala was originally called "Gulatten" and then it was changed to "Friezland". However, given the anti German sentiment during World War I, it was changed to Kuridala, as it is known today.

During it's peak Kuridala was a thriving township, with a population of over 2000 people.

Copper was first discovered at Kuridala in 1884, however mining did not actually start until 1897. During 1905 -1907 with the high cooper prices, there was a boost in production and as such a train line from Cloncurry was built and opened in 1910.

Copper prices again surged between 1914 and 1916, and it was during this time that Kuridala hit it's peak. Sadly, by 1918, the price of copper had slumped and the grade of ore from the mines in the region was poor; by 1920 it was virtually all over for Kuridala.

During it's heyday - Kuridala had six (6) hotels, an iceworks, several stores, a hospital, post office, an Anglican and Presbyterian church, along with a primary school. There was also Chinese market gardens to ensure lovely fresh produce for the local residents.

There is still quite alot of history and interesting things to see, when you take a trip to Kuridala. There are the mighty stacks of the smelting operations, a cemetery rich in history with a book provided to give you some information on each of those who are laid to rest here. For something extra special - if you a "Gem Hunter", or even if you aren't - head out to the Amethysts Field, about 8km out of the townsite.

The track to the Amethysts field is 4wd only - and I would take caution if towing a caravan or camper trailer. To find the field, head east out of town and take a track to the left (it is near a creek crossing), follow this along and eventually you find yourself at the field.

Good Luck! You will be able to find many smaller pieces without any tools what so over, but the real beauties you will need to work for!

Driver Reviver between Cloncurry and Mount Isa

This way to Kuridala

Please be mindful that you are travelling on Private Property - and YOU MUST leave the gates as you find them.

Kuridala Copper Smelter stacks

The top of the range near Kuridala

If you head east from the Mines of Kuridala, you will find yourself heading towards the range, and nearing the Amethyst fields. The views are amazing, and if you look around you will find an extra special treat! Just beware of the 'creepy crawlies'!