Welcome Porsche,
There are plenty of spots within an hours drive of Junee. Adelong, Gundagai, Temora and of course Tumbarumba, Batlow, and the young and Harden area. Plenty of places to practice both in learning to research areas and those field skills.
Have a look at "The World of Shiny Stuff" Google. A basic start!
Try and find some friendly farmers in your local area close to old mine sites.
Cheers
Diablo. Wagga