black stump

An imaginary marker of the edge of civilized settlement, usually referring to the Australian outback. The origin of the term is uncertain. Primarily heard in Australia. There are many people who still live beyond the black stump, lacking access to medical care and other basic social services. I could never live back of the black stump—l need access to the amenities of the modern world! I've got the tastiest recipe for beef stew this side of the black stump.