Coolgardie 22 January 2007

Got up early and drove 200km to Coolgardie. The town has a ghostly feel, notwithstanding 100 years ago it was the 3rd largest town in WA. Old photos show a vibrant settlement with streets of civic buildings and shops. Now there are a few very grand and dominant buildings and lots of empty lots – a result of massive fires and a downturn in gold production. Had a look at an historic property, which was the home of Warden Finnerty’s who was the first warden of the goldfields. He had the unenviable task of sorting out the numerous claim disputes. The guide said that the left over beer was used in the mortar as it was more plentiful than water.
Stopped for the night in a large rest area under the shade of some trees – it is very hot at last! The air-conditioner works very well off the generator.