Whyalla - Cowell 111km
Franklin Harbour, a 48sqkm natural harbour with calm waters, has for many years fostered Cowell's reputation as one of the best oyster producer.
The harbour, named after the famed 19th century explorer and one time Tasmanian Governor John Franklin (as a young bloke he was also a midshipman on the Investigator) supports an array of fish including whiting, snapper, snook, tommy ruff, flathead, garfish and squid. Crabs are also caught night and day in the shallows, while the mangrove swamp south of town is a haven for birds.
The harbour's popularity has been backed by many foreshore developments including the deepening of the boating channel, a new enclosed tidal aquatic area, sheltered BBQ facilities and a large adventure playground.
But there's also plenty to do away from the water. Cowell boasts one of the largest jade deposits in the world and the famed Gumnuts children's author May Gibbs spent part of her life here.
Settled in 1853, Cowell has developed into a substantial township with a variety of shops, telecentre with internet access, accommodation and sporting facilities.
The words Cowell and jade go hand in hand, as it is here that the beautiful nephrite jade was discovered in 1965 in the nearby Minbrie Ranges. Cowell Jade is recognised as the oldest and one of the largest deposits in the world, with a variety of colours and patterns not found elsewhere.
Oyster farming is a relatively new but thriving industry in this community. Leased areas in Franklin Harbour produce these delicacies on a commercial basis. A large percentage of South Australia's oyster supply came from Cowell last year. Fresh seafood and oysters in season can be purchased through various outlets in Cowell.
Finfish farming is also conducted in the harbour and although in its infancy is a growing industry in Cowell.
Meet the business that offers the taste of the sea in every oyster; see bulk handling practices in action. Tours include a tasting of a natural oyster, video presentation of farming techniques. Fresh oysters available for sale. Tours Monday to Friday at 2.00pm. Group bookings welcome (weekends included). Tours bookings at Cowell Visitor Information Centre, phone 08 8629 2588.
Eyre Peninsula's largest wind farm is being constructed along an escarpment approximately 38km from Cowell travelling towards Cleve.
From the public viewing area at the top of Range Road see the enormous two-megawatt wind turbines with a blade diameter of 71 metres atop an 85 metre tall tower - a total height of 120m!
The viewing area is signposted at 17km from Cowell on the Cowell-Cleve Road, and is open to the public 7days a week - admission is free.
For more information phone 08 8629 2588 or visit the Cowell Information & Tourist Centre.
Situated in the old Post Office and attached residence (circa 1888). Restored by the National Trust it houses a comprehensive display of early day artefacts, memorabilia and geological specimens from the nearby area. See noticeboard at front for inspection details or phone 08 8629 2262 or 08 8629 2093.
This scenic drive, incorporating the old shipping port of Port Gibbon, has interpretive signage throughout and starts with a viewing platform overlooking some oysterfarms. Facilities at Port Gibbon, 20kms south of Cowell, include a BBQ and toilets. When you get there look out resident sealions. Enjoy the clean beaches, cliffs, white sandhills and reefs.
Detailed information is available from the Cowell Visitor Information Outlet or from here: http://www.franklinharbour.sa.gov.au/
