Moonta Mines, Moonta

Explore culture, arts and heritage

Uncover the richness of Yorke Peninsula when you explore the region's proud and enduring Aboriginal culture, experience the diversity of today's thriving arts scene, or marvel at the ingenuity and perseverance of the Cornish miners who left an indelible mark on Moonta and the surrounding mining communities. 

The Moonta Mines are a cultural icon of Yorke Peninsula and a glimpse back in time. Today the site is managed by the National Trust, and you are invited to explore the Hughes Pump House, Miner's Cottage and heritage garden, the Mine's Museum and of course the ever-popular heritage sweet shop. Book a guided tour on the Moonta Mines Tourist Railway or watch the blacksmiths hard at work. 

Art galleries and exhibitions across the region tell a contemporary arts story, and an abundance of workshops and classes invite you to place yourself in the frame alongside working artisans and craftspeople. 

Galleries, Murals and Museums

Embark on a vibrant artistic journey across Yorke Peninsula. From studios to marketplaces, discover local talents crafting captivating watercolours, oil paintings, and intricate glass pieces—ideal holiday souvenirs. Explore towns adorned with street art, sculptures, and murals, each telling a vivid story.

Delve into history at local museums, spanning the region's mining roots to maritime sagas. Experience the ingenuity of early settlers, from inventive contraptions to modern agriculture marvels. Yorke Peninsula offers an enriching blend of art and history at every turn.

Yorke Peninsula Art Trail

Explore the Yorke Peninsula Art Trail to discover colourful murals, statues, mosaic creations and photo opportunities across the region. 

Visit regional galleries and artists' studios to see the artists in residence. You can also buy paintings, jewellery, ceramics and other artworks direct from the maker.

You’ll treasure meeting artists in their workshops and studios where you can chat with talented locals working in a number of mediums – from watercolours to oil paint, glass, ceramics and wood.

The region also produces some exquisite jewellery, woodcraft, clothing and much more from local artisans across the region.  

Underwater Heritage

The 85 shipwrecks scattered around Yorke Peninsula’s coastline tell an evocative story of the golden age of seafaring in the region - for over a hundred years ships were the main transport for people and cargo to, and from, Yorke Peninsula. 

Today, divers can visit the Zanoni shipwreck off Ardrossan, whilst in Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, the wreck of the Ethel is a popular attraction for tourists and photographers. 

Two underwater Maritime Heritage Trails provide excellent diving opportunities for both beginners and more experienced divers. 

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The Yorke Peninsula is the traditional lands of the Narungga (Nharangga) people, who have lived on, and cared for, this country since the beginning of time. We work, live and travel on Nharannga Banggara [Country], and we take time away from those pursuits to acknowledge and pay our deep respects to the Nharangga Elders of the past and present. 

Today, it is essential that we continue to care for and protect our spectacular natural environment. Tread lightly and leave no trace. Learn more about responsible and respectful travel on Yorke Peninsula.