Mount Isa is a city located in north western Queensland, Australia. It came into existence for the single reason that underneath it and around it, there are vast mineral deposits to be extracted, principally by mining.
The city can be said to have come into existence soon after 1923 when a John Campbell Miles discovered a rich seam of silver-lead deposit on the western edge of the Cloncurry field. Copper and zinc are also mined and the ore is transported the 900 kilometres to the city and port of Townsville on the east coast. The mine is the most significant landmark in the area, with the stack from the lead smelter, standing 265 metres, visible from all parts of the town.
With a population of around 20,000 (ABS June 2003 estimate), Mount Isa is a significant administrative centre for the region with excellent amenities and facilities. Although situated in an arid area, the manmade Lake Moondarra to the north provides both drinking water and an area for watersports.
Mount Isa lays claim to being the largest city in the world by area, with an area of 42,904 square kilometres being administered by the Mount Isa City Council. The town of Camooweal, located 188 kilometres west, is in fact a 'suburb' of the city.
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