Lightning Ridge, NSW – 16 September 2025
Walgett Shire Council recently welcomed author Fiona McArthur to Lightning Ridge for the launch of her latest book, The Lightning Ridge Ladies. Council’s General Manager, along with Councillor Pauline Kearl, attended the event to congratulate Fiona on her new publication.
The launch was attended by around 40 community members, celebrating the release and noting the book’s achievement of reaching number one in Apple’s online store for fiction on the day of the launch.
Council’s General Manager, Andrew Brown, welcomed Fiona to Lightning Ridge and said the launch was a wonderful celebration of the region. “We thank Fiona for showcasing our community through her storytelling,” Mr Brown said. “We’d also like to acknowledge Councillor Kearl and the Visitor Information Centre team for their support in making the launch such a success. The Lightning Ridge Ladies is now available to borrow from our libraries – be sure to check it out!”
Councillor Pauline Kearl spoke on behalf of the community, thanking Fiona for her continued support and love of the Lightning Ridge area. She also announced that Walgett Shire Council had purchased two copies of the book to be available at the Walgett and Lightning Ridge libraries.
The celebratory cake was made by Di Kearl, Visitor Information Centre Officer, with catering support provided by the VIC staff and volunteers, making the event a memorable community occasion.
End
Pictured Councillor Pauline Kearl
About the Book
Still heartbroken after the death of her twin brother, Dr Bella Grey moves to Lightning Ridge for a fresh start managing the outback town’s general practice. It’s a far cry from her city roots, but she quickly bonds with the charming locals and the Lightning Ridge Ladies. At one of their weekly gatherings, Bella meets the vivacious opal jeweller Meesha, who might just be the fast friend she has been hoping to find.
Bella is also hiding a secret: she’s desperate to uncover the truth about what happened to her twin, William, and moving to the town where he took his life – where his body was never found – seemed like the best place to start. When she learns that TJ, Meesha’s opal supplier, knew William before he died, she’s convinced he can help. But the irresistibly handsome miner has wrapped himself in so many secrets, it seems impossible to unravel them.
Set in the heart of Australia’s opal-mining district and imbued with the harsh beauty of that unique setting, The Lightning Ridge Ladies is a gorgeous tale of outback community and female friendship.
Borrow or Purchase the Book
Discover the charm, mystery, and friendship of Lightning Ridge in Fiona McArthur’s latest novel.
Borrow it from our libraries:
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Walgett Library: 88 Fox Street, Walgett
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Lightning Ridge Library: 53 Pandora Street, Lightning Ridge
Or purchase it from your favourite retailers here.
Contact Information
General Enquiries:
Contact our Customer Service team:
Phone: 02 6828 6100
Email: admin@walgett.nsw.gov.au
Media Enquiries:
Sherisse Fensom
Phone: 0447 572 956
Email: sfensom@walgett.nsw.gov.au