Yorke Peninsula -The Copper Coast

(Text & Photos supplied by Yorke Peninsula Regional Visitor Information Centre)

The Copper Coast Region of South Australia is an easy 90 minute drive from Adelaide via the dual Highway One to Port Wakefield. The area has a rich history of copper mining that took place between 1860 1923 producing 170,000 tons of copper. The ore was smelted at Wallaroo from where it was shipped to local and overseas markets. Today Wallaroo has excellent port facilities, that service the areas grain, fishing and tourism industries.

The Copper Coast, often referred to as, ‘The Copper Triangle, is a small area dominated by the three major towns of Kadina, Moonta and Wallaroo with a coastline which embraces beautiful and extensive beaches. There are many beach facilities including well maintained jetties and water sport areas.

You can enjoy a day trip to the region from Adelaide. However you will find that there is much to do which may take more than a day. Your accommodation choices are varied and you may choose from, caravan parks motels, historic cottages, luxury B & Bs and farm stays.

The Copper coast is a great place to fish by boat or from the jetties. Charter boats are also available. It is also great place for sailing and other water based sports.

In the historic area, of Moonta and Moonta Mines, known as ‘Australia’s Little Cornwall’, you can experience a train ride through the abandoned mine workings and discover much more about the Cornish miners who toiled long hours under very difficult conditions to win the copper ore from the ground, by visiting the Moonta Mines museum.

The Wheal Hughes copper mine provides an underground mining experience, that is exciting and educational.

The new National Dry Land Farming and Visitor Centre is located at Kadina and features, interpretive displays of farm machinery, Matta House, a printing museum and ‘The Kadina Story’.

Wallaroo has been a significant port in South Australia from the early copper producing days. Much of the rich history about the port can be discovered at the Wallaroo Nautical Museum. While you are there, check on the giant squid.

One of Australia’s most unique museums, The Banking and Currency Museum can be found at Kadina.

There is a host of coastal and land based activities waiting for you in this very picturesque area. To help plan your visit, make sure you contact the Visitor information centres at Kadina and Moonta.

Yorke Peninsula Regional Visitor Information Centre
Address: 50 Moonta Road, Kadina, SA, 5554
Phone: (08) 88212333
Email: tourism@yp-connect.net