Whyalla - Iron Knob 52km
Iron Knob, just off the Eyre Highway, is synonymous with the early development of BHP (now OneSteel) and the birth of the Australian steel industry.
It was here in 1894 that the first iron ore deposit was discovered, and the town developed between the sister quarries of Iron Knob and Iron Monarch.
These two quarries supplied ore for the Whyalla Steelworks, 52kms away, and over the years other mines (Iron Baron, Iron Prince and Iron Queen) opened in the Middleback Ranges to meet demand.
Iron is currently being mined from the Iron Duke, which opened in 1990 about 50kms south of the town.
After nearly 100 years, mining at Iron Knob ended in June, 1998, when the last ore was taken from the Iron Monarch open cut pit.
Facilities in Iron Knob include accommodation at nearby Nuttbush Retreat.
Aimed at establishing positive relationships with police, the facility provides recreational opportunities and increases participant's self-esteem. Camps are hosted for young people, corporate and community groups. Facilities include modern accommodation blocks with double bunks, disabled amenities, air-conditioning, heating and full catering.
Activities include a challenge course, high ropes challenges, 120m flying fox, 14m rock climbing and abseiling tower, basketball and bush walking.
For more information contact PO Box 83, Iron Knob, SA 5601. Phone 8646 2109, fax 8646 2174 or email: errappa@activ8.net.au
Part of the Iron Knob Community Tourist Centre has been developed and displays old mining equipment, mineral specimens and interpretive photographs. There is also a theatre with an informative video showing the mining and steelmaking process. Phone 08 8646 2129. Hours may vary, check ahead of visit.
Weekdays 10.00am and 2.00pm (a guide must accompany you in your vehicle, enclosed footwear essential).
