Beachport

Beachport is located 37kms north-west of Millicent on the Southern Ports Highway (Alternate Highway One) and 80kms west of Penola. The main local industries are agriculture, viticulture, tourism, aquaculture, fishing, surfboard manufacturing and kelp fertiliser manufacturing. The first industry in the South East of South Australia was a whaling station at Beachport. Beachport was named after M.E. Hicks Beach MP and was officially proclaimed a port on the 21st November 1878. In that year, the lighthouse and two houses on Penguin Island were completed. Despite a lack of facilities, trade and the handling of cargo developed. A week after the tragedy of the Geltwood (1876), parliament passed a bill to establish a port at Beachport. In November 1878 the railway line to Mt Gambier was completed. The railway closed in 1956. The bay is now home to a thriving fishing fleet and is a popular tourist destination.

 

    

Beachport Visitor Information Centre

Open daily Mon to Fri 9am-5pm. Weekends and Public Holidays 10.00am-4.00 pm. Providing tourist information, local souvenirs, Internet access. Phone: 08 8735 8029 - 1300 045 373.

Beachport Jetty

The Beachport Jetty is the second longest in the state measuring 772 metres. The jetty is also a well known place for catching a prized fish. Free entry.

 

The Old Wool and Grain Store National Trust Museum

Displays of blacksmith tools, farming and fishing gear, relics from local shipwrecks, copies of diaries and early household equipment. Upstairs rooms have all been furnished in the manner of the period of the building. Entry fee applies.

 

St Nicholas Church

The Original Church of England. This tiny Church is now furnished as it would have been during the period it was used and is open daily for viewing. Free entry

Bowman Scenic Drive

Gain spectacular views of the rugged coastline along the scenic drive. There are many parking bays with walking trails through the dunes to the beaches. Free entry.

Pool of Siloam

Reputed to be seven times saltier than the sea creating unusual buoyancy. It is an ideal swimming spot recommended by locals for relieving aches and pains. Picnic area, toilets and cold shower available. Free entry.

Below: Floating on the Pool of Siloam, or Salt Lake as it is otherwise known by the locals.

Customs House

View the customs house, restored to a working office as it was in the late 19th century. Click here to view Beachport's Historic Buildings Self Drive.

 

Beachport & Lake George Conservation Park

Lake George is a popular spot for locals and visitors with many migratory birds visiting the lake. Reminders of our aboriginal past can be found in the middens (remains of discarded shellfish) . Five Mile Drift is a sheltered area ideal for picnics, swimming and landing site for sailing or windsurfing. Beachport Conservation Park has several bush camping sites. Free entry. Camping fee applies. www.parks.sa.gov.au

      

Woolley Lake

Woolley Lake is a small saltwater lagoon and is a favourite haunt for many small birds. A pleasant 45-minute walk skirts the lake. Name plates have been provided alongside many of the plants. There is a short climb to a lookout, which provides views over Lake George, the coast and the Woakwine Range. Free entry.

Memorial Lookout and Surf Beach

Memorial Lookout located at the Surf Beach, is dedicated to the memory of two service men killed dismantling a mine during WW2. The lookout provides panoramic views across Rivoli Bay and Lake George. This beach is excellent for surfing. A parking area, toilets and cold shower are provided. Free entry.

Woakwine Cutting

Said to be Australias biggest one-man engineering feat, the cutting was excavated to drain land behind the Woakwine Range, which is located approximately 12kms from Beachport. A parking bay and viewing platform is provided and the machines used to dig the cutting are on display. Free entry. To view broichure please click Woakwine Cutting Brochure (2453 kb)

Left: The Woakwine Cutting. 

The Lagoon

Centrally located in Beachport, the Lagoon is skirted by a walking trail with bridges, fountains and other water features. The area also provides play equipment, sheltered BBQ and picnic facilities, toilets, tennis courts and a small skateboarding facility. Free entry.

Sculptures

Look for Beachport's three beautiful stainless steel sculptures on your entry in to the town. Starting from directly opposite the Robe turnoff.