There is an expression in Australia (originating in Sydney, I guess) for any extremely remote location: Back ‘o Bourke. Bourke, NSW is a small town near the northern border with Queensland. I found it to be a bit creepy and somewhat reminiscent of Derby, WA. It seemed to be a bit of a ghost town – and even had tumble weed-like things rolling around and blowing all over town. The town seemed very quiet and unassuming by day but it had hints of much social unrest at night. There were numerous recently burned out homes, very high security around most shops, a bizarre iron-barred jailed-like car lot, and even barbed wire and electronic fencing around the caravan park I stayed in. I did manage to get out and visit their boat ramp for a very nice cooling swim with locals on the Darling River.
Back ‘o Bourke
