Arrived at Blackwater at friends Col and Jeanelle's. They have been our friends for many years owners of the Catarmaran Eureka 111. They have both been working in the Coal mining industy for the last 5 years. We once again became "lawn dwellers" despite their offer of a bedroom...we are very comfy in our own space. We were treated to lots of Barramundi and crayfish as Col is a keen fisherman. We also went to the local pub to celebrate one of their friends 60th. Would you believe this place didn't have any tonic togo with my gin....???? Also, you couldn't purchase a bottle of wine for the table....only mini ones like they dish up on the airways. The crowningblow after a very average meal was ...NO DESSERTS....nothing...not even an icecream!!! We will remember that evening for a long time!! A real treat was a tour around the Blackwater mine where Col works. He pulled a few strings and, after a safety induction, video safety hats, glasses gloves and jackets, we set off to view the HUGE draglines and trucks up close. The added excitement was an emergency stop because one of the trucks had an overheated tyre. The whole mine has to come to a halt while it is dealt with....sirens blaring and all vehicles tuned in to the operation....apparently, if one of these tyres blows...it could decapitate anything or anyone within a 300metre radius!!