

Our Story

Foundation
Established by the esteemed Coober Pedy Legend, Faye Nayler, The Opal Cave stands as a cornerstone of the community with a rich legacy spanning more than six decades. Our team comprises individuals who have devoted significant portions of their lives to the intricate world of opals, amassing a combined experience of over a century in the industry.
Legacy
Our founder came to Coober Pedy in 1961 to work the tourism season. Despite her intention, she stayed here in Coober Pedy for the next 22 years and opened the first ever cafe in town. The Windlass.
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The Windlass was destroyed by a dust storm shortly after opening, and when the dust settled, the Opal Cave was born. Faye nurtured the Opal Cave until selling it to her mentorees, Deiter and Lorraine Sternberg, both of which still operate the Opal Cave to this day.
