The Blue Mountains is not only one of the most dramatically beautiful parts of Australia, it’s also filled with history. And with that history comes a ghost story or two.
Actually, make that a lot more than two.
One man who knows those tales better than most is Peter Clifford.
Paranormal Pete, as he’s also known, runs a series of tours in the Blue Mountains from scenic daylight options that take people to some hidden gems around the world heritage area, to spooky Blue Mountains Mystery Tours at night.
On my most recent trip to the Blue Mountains we joined Pete in Buster the Ghost Bus for his Hartley Paranormal Tour.
I’d driven through the historic town of Hartley many times when I lived in Bathurst but I’d never stopped to go into the old courthouse before. And certainly not at night with ghost hunting equipment while being told scary tales.
I share more of what happened on that night in my piece on the Blackheath and the Blue Mountains but for now I wanted to turn over to Paranormal Pete and ask him Ten Questions…
What’s the best thing about your job?
Taking clients into the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Wilderness Area and seeing their reactions.
If you could change one thing about your job what would it be?
Less office work and more wilderness.
What’s something about your role that you wish people understood?
That this isn’t just my job, it is my passion and my life.
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What’s your favourite thing to do on your day off?
Review data gathered on our ghost tour to see if anything paranormal has been captured, then walk to a secluded bush setting usually with a running creek to ground and refresh my mind, body and soul.
What’s a cheap and cheerful food secret you (usually) only tell your friends?
Pappadinos Italian restaurant in Katoomba has the best steaks and garlic bread ever.
If money was no object, where would you go for lunch or dinner?
Pappadinos Italian restaurant in Katoomba.
Where do you take a friend when they come to visit?
Mermaids Cave and Megalong Valley, and to explore the 600 million year old ancient rock formations and rainforests that we have in the Blue Mountains.
What’s the best shopping experience in town?
The Talisman Gallery in Hartley has the best hand made talismans and jewellery.
Is there a local tourist cliché that’s actually worth doing?
Scenic World has the best rides, rainforest walks and views and is a must if you’re in Katoomba.
Is there a tourist attraction nearby that you can’t believe you still haven’t visited yourself?
The Edge Picture theatre.
Amanda met Paranormal Pete when she took part in his Hartley Paranormal Tour in the Blue Mountains.
Like getting a little bit spooked? Then you’ll like hearing what it’s like to spend the night at Manly Q Station after doing a ghost tour (hint: scary!)
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