Broken Hill Two-up School: Keith visits the Outback region on the New South Wales border

There's no denying the beauty of the Australian outback. Its vast horizons and stunning colors have beckoned people for generations. While some fall in love with its solitude, others are lured by the need to exploit what lies below.

That's certainly the case for the folk of Broken Hill. The giant mullock heaps towering over the city are testament to the valuable ore contained within the Barrier Range. Over the years the mines have attracted a virtual United Nations of people and despite the remoteness - or perhaps because of it - they know how to have a good time.

Karaoke nights at the local Musician's Club are a big hit in Broken Hill as the locals take the stage and burble away their work-day woes. But that's not the only way to let your hair down in this legendary town.

The Muso's Club is also one of the few places in Australia where you can play two-up legally. On Friday and Saturday nights the locals and a lot of tourists cram around the ring to try their luck - so, being my first visit to town I decided to join them. But before having a punt, it pays to learn the rules. That was my first mistake because after listening to the do's and don'ts, the terminology and tricks of the trade I still found it virtually impossible to understand how it all works.

We met Laurel - she's a local who loves the occasional flutter - legally of course. She can remember the days when women had to sit in the car while the men folk played clandestine games in the back lanes.

"They used to have it in Argent Lane I think it was," said Laurel. "But women weren't allowed in and we used to have to sit out in the car. It wasn't legal - well everyone was under the impression it was legal - the men would go in and we'd be sitting outside getting angry."

The exact origin of two-up isn't really known - but it became famous during World War One when Aussie Diggers passed the time gambling on the toss of two pennies. The tradition continues even today with Two-up played around Australia on Anzac Day. Police turn a blind eye for the day.

Now back to the ring and I'm still having trouble getting the hang of it all but with a little practice they assure me the 'penny will drop'.

"Come in spinner…" was the call from the crowd as I launched the coins into the air.

What a night!! The Musicians Club is in Crystal Street - Opposite the Railway Station. The Two-up ring is open till late on Friday and Saturday, Public Holidays and Anzac Day.

Two-up Ring
Broken Hill Musicians Club
276 Crystal St
Broken Hill
Opposite the Railway Station
Phone 8088 1777