Visit Kimba 1 hour and 15 minutes from Whyalla. Linking to Cowell - for ferry or back to Whyalla.
Situated halfway across Australia on the renowned Eyre Highway, Kimba is home to 1,200 people , a fascinating historical museum, award winning Community Hotel and the Big Galah.
Kimba is the 'Eastern Gateway' to the spectacular Gawler Ranges, a short 100km drive north-west, offering visitors the chance to experience the open spaces and solitude of the outback.
Like many areas in this part of Australia, Kimba was first seen by explorer Edward John Eyre. It was from here that he also discovered the Gawler Ranges in 1839, naming them after the then Governor of South Australia.
Pastoral leases were first granted around Kimba in 1872 and the first crops sown in 1908 - leading to the district's reputation today as one of South Australia's major grain belts.
Kimba is now a thriving community with most modern facilities including two supermarkets, a laundromat, internet access at TAFE and at the Community Library and a variety of accommodation and mechanical services.
Kimba is an RV friendly town and has a dumping point at the recreation Reserve, with a choice of camping areas and facilities.
On Railway Terrace, an easy stroll to the centre of town. This unique structure displays directions and features of the Gawler Ranges National Park.
Kimba & Gawler Ranges Historical MuseumLocated in mallee parkland opposite the large grain silos on the Eyre Highway. Experience the living Museum areas - the Pine and Pug cottage, One Teach School, Farming Machinery, Stationary Engines, General Store, Government Sheds, Dog Fence, Water Conservation and Blacksmith Shed. Open Tuesday to Thursday 9.00am - 11.00am and 2.00pm - 4.00pm. Sunday 1.30pm - 4.00pm or by appointment, phone 08 8627 2131, 08 8627 2436 or 08 8627 2121.
Recently renovated, this award winning Hotel captures the community spirit. Have a drink in the "shed "with the locals or browse in the Pine 'n' Pug. Enjoy a coffee or snack in the hotel's Halfway Coffee Shop. Various accommodation styles available.
Discover a treasure trove of country style gifts, homewares and souvenirs. Located inside the Community Hotel, open Monday to Friday 9.00am -5.30pm. After hours appointments phone 8627 2488.
The Big Galah stands eight metres high in front of the Halfway Across Australia Gem Shop on the Eyre Highway.
Kimba is located halfway across Australia between the east and west coast, as the crow flies. The sign makes a great photo.
Next to the swimming pool on Park Terrace, it offers electric BBQ, shaded areas, playground and toilet facilities.
Situated where the Eyre Highway crosses the railway line, "The Gums" provides public toilets, a shaded area with picnic and electric BBQ facilities.
Detailed information available from Kimba Visitor Information Outlet.
Meandering from the edge of town the Roora Walking Trail wanders through 3kms of native bushland, past the old town reservoir to the popular Whites Knob Lookout. This ironstone conglomerate offers magnificent 360 degree views over town and district and the golf course nestled on the lower slopes.
Located 25kms north of Kimba, this stimulating 2.8km walk through hills features native black oak country, panoramic 360 degree views, granite rocks and many flowering shrubs in season.
Lake Gilles, Cortlinye, Pinkawillinie, Caralue Bluff, Carappee, the Gawler Ranges and Edward John Eyre's Refuge Rocks.
Caralue Bluff
Situated just to the south of the Eyre Highway, 27kms west of Kimba, Caralue Bluff is easy to access. The Bluff features a variety of wild flowers, native fauna and is great for bushwalking, bird watching or simply enjoying a quiet picnic. A climb to the top of the hill offers a great photo opportunity.
More information about Kimba can be found here: http://www.kimba.sa.gov.au/
