Coober Pedy & Far North Investment Brief

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1. A Region Poised for Growth

Aerial View of open pit mine at Prominent Hill (courtesy of Oxiana Ltd)The economy of Far Northern South Australia continues to be stimulated by burgeoning mining developments. Known for two decades as the Cinderella state of mining in Australia, South Australia has experienced a five-fold increase in mineral exploration in the five years to 2007. South Australia has moved from being a mining backwater to one of the world's best exploration destinations. Far Northern South Australia contains all five priority exploration regions in the state. In one recent forecast it is suggested that capital investment in the resources sector over the next decade in South Australia will total $24 billion ($US19.92 b). The bulk of that investment will occur in Far North South Australia.

Nestled in the midst of this region is the iconic town of Coober Pedy, the Opal Capital of the World. Producing 80% of the world's opals, Coober Pedy has over its 100 year opal mining history evolved into one of the most unique places in Australia and perhaps the world. It continues to be a popular location for domestic and international travel-shows and attracts over 120,000 visitors per year. It is a cosmopolitan town with a population of 3,500 and over 45 different nationalities, many living underground. The ethnic diversity has been a catalyst for fine cuisine and the town enjoys some of the best restaurants in remote Australia.

Prominent Hill Processing Plant under construction (courtesy of Oxiana Ltd)Far North South Australia is the outback, the spiritual heartland of Australia. Where the journey is more important than the destination and its essence is characterised not only by the vast open spaces, the amazing night sky and the colours in the landscape but also the pioneering spirit of its people, their communities and lifestyle. With experiences ranging from camel races on an ancient sea bed to fine dining at outback pubs a million miles from anywhere - Far North South Australia is truly one of the gems of the Australian tourism market. This is demonstrated by the fact that the Flinders Ranges and Outback South Australia tourism region attracts more visitor nights in South Australia than any other region outside of Adelaide.

Coober Pedy is experiencing an economic boom. There's a lot of excitement in the town. There's more money flowing into the town and new businesses are being established.

Mick Wilkes, General Manager
Prominent Hill, Oxiana Ltd.

The Far North SA region has seen significant growth in the number of new business opportunities. New residents are being attracted, past residents are returning and the feeling amongst the business community is that of confidence, opportunity and prosperity. It is the start of a new era for Far North South Australia. New businesses, new services and new skills will enable the region to ride the resources boom well in to the future.

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