Lightning Ridge

Lightning Ridge, a small town situated in New South Wales, is known for its opal mines and the unique underground lifestyle of many of its inhabitants. Despite its small size, the town has numerous businesses that cater to the needs of the locals as well as tourists. In this article, we will explore the best businesses in Lightning Ridge, including manufacturing, retail, and services.

1. Lightning Ridge Opal Mines

Lightning Ridge Opal Mines is one of the most popular businesses in the town with over 40 years of experience in mining opals. The company specializes in mining, cutting, and selling high-quality Australian opals. They have a vast range of products, including black opals, boulder opals, crystal opals, and matrix opals. What makes this business special is that it has a wide variety of opals from different regions around Australia, including Coober Pedy and Quilpie. The staff are knowledgeable and helpful, and they are always ready to assist customers in finding the perfect opal for their needs.

Contact Details: Phone: +61 2 6829 0066

2. Ridgey Didge

Ridgey Didge is a family business that has been operating in Lightning Ridge for over 25 years. The specialty of this business is opal jewelry, but they also sell a variety of other souvenirs, clothing, hats and caps, sun protection gear, and other Australian memorabilia. What makes this business unique is their collection of opal jewelry designed and made on-site. They have beautiful and unique designs catered to different tastes and preferences. They also offer custom-made jewelry, including engagement rings, wedding bands, and other special occasions.

Contact Details: Phone: +61 2 6829 2194

3. BlackClaw

BlackClaw specializes in Australian-made leather products, including belts, wallets, and bags. The business is owned and operated by a local family who have been in the leather industry for over 40 years. What makes BlackClaw unique is that all their products are handmade using high-quality materials. Their leatherwork is treated with natural oils and waxes to ensure durability and water resistance, making it perfect for the harsh Australian outback conditions. They also offer custom-made leather products designed according to customers' requests.

Contact Details: Phone: +61 409 259 045

4. Outback Treasures

Outback Treasures is a souvenir shop that specializes in Australian souvenirs and gifts. They have a vast collection of unique and authentic products, including Aboriginal art, didgeridoos, boomerangs, and other memorabilia. The shop has a friendly staff who are knowledgeable about the products, and they are always happy to assist customers in finding the perfect gift or souvenir to take back home.

Contact Details: Phone: +61 2 6829 0444

5. Ridge Carwash

Ridge Carwash is a car-washing service that provides high-quality cleaning services to both locals and visitors. The business is owned and operated by a local family, and they have been servicing the community for over ten years. They offer various washing packages, including hand wash, machine wash, and detailing services. Ridge Carwash is known for its attention to detail and high-standard services that leave vehicles looking new and fresh.

Contact Details: Phone: +61 2 6829 2655

6. Ridge Medical Centre

Ridge Medical Centre is a general medical practice that provides a range of health services to the community. The practice has qualified and experienced healthcare professionals who specialize in various fields, including general medicine, women's health, mental health, and chronic disease management. They also offer vaccinations, travel medicine, and allied health services, including physiotherapy, psychology, and podiatry.

Contact Details: Phone: +61 2 6829 0977

Conclusion

These are just some of the best businesses that Lightning Ridge has to offer. Each of them provides unique benefits and services to both locals and tourists. They all contribute to the community's growth and development in their respective fields. Whether you are looking for high-quality opals, unique souvenirs, handmade leather products, car washing services, or medical care, Lightning Ridge has everything you need.