The "echidnapus", bottom left, is among six monotreme species discovered at Lightning Ridge opal fields Scientists have discovered a bizarre creature dubbed the "echidnapus" which they believe ...

Following is a transcript of the video. Narrator: High-quality black opal can cost over $10,000 per carat, making it one of the world's most expensive gemstones. But mining black opal isn't easy.

Debate over the future of opal mining in New South Wales has continued in recent weeks as the industry continues to reject proposed legislative changes.

Everything about this land suggests life here is hot and hard. The summer sun blazes from an enormous sky, nudging the ...