Nullagine

Nullagine is a tiny, historic gold-mining settlement in the remote Pilbara region of Western Australia, not the Northern Territory. Despite its isolation, this pocket of the outback offers a raw, authentic glimpse into Australia's gold rush era and the stark beauty of the red centre. With a population that fluctuates around a handful of residents, Nullagine feels like a ghost town in the making, yet it remains a fascinating stop for those venturing deep into the outback.

Highlights & What to See

• Historic Gold Mining Sites: Explore the remnants of the town's gold rush past, including old machinery, mine shafts, and the Nullagine Gold Battery, which once crushed ore from surrounding mines.
• Nullagine River: A seasonal waterway that cuts through the landscape, offering a surprising oasis for birdwatching and a splash of green amid the red dirt.
• Stargazing: With virtually no light pollution, the night sky here is a celestial spectacle – the Milky Way stretches from horizon to horizon.
• Outback Characters: If you're lucky, you'll meet locals who have stories of the town's boom-and-bust cycles; the pub is the best place to start.

Suggested Time to Spend

Nullagine is more of a brief stop than a destination in itself. Allocate 1–2 hours to wander the historic sites and soak in the atmosphere. If you're self-driving, it's a good spot to stretch your legs, grab a drink at the pub, and snap photos of the rusty relics against the red earth. There's no need to stay overnight unless you're keen on remote camping under the stars.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Marble Bar: Just 80 km south, this historic town claims to be Australia's hottest town and offers more gold-rush history, plus the spectacular Marble Bar Pool for a swim.
• Newman: A larger mining town about 200 km south, with the stunning Karijini National Park nearby – a must for its gorges and waterfalls.
• Karlamilyi National Park (Rudall River): One of Australia's most remote parks, accessible only by 4WD, offering incredible desert landscapes and Aboriginal rock art.
• Pilbara Region: The entire region is a treasure trove of ancient landscapes, from the Hamersley Range to the Dales Gorge in Karijini.

Please check official sources for current details.