You never know when you will next strike gold in Meekatharra - the capital of the Murchison goldfields.

Strategically positioned near the gold and iron-rich fields of northern Western Australia, Meekatharra is the centre of a mining, sheep and cattle district, 765km north-north-east of Perth.

The relics of the old gold digs are dotted throughout the countryside, fueling the imagination of the inquisitive tourist. However, those who try their hand at prospecting today will often be surprised by good results.

A huge 2181m runway, known as Meekatharra Airport, was built here by the American Air Force during World War II. Today, it serves as an important diversion airport for inbound transcontinental flights to Australia. It is also a regional home to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the School of the Air.