We have arrived at Moonta Bay, originally named Tiparra, it has a population of only 4,200 which swells to almost double over the holiday periods. The town is part of the Copper Coast where copper was first discovered by 2 shepherds in 1861. The district became known as "Australia's Little Cornwall" because of the early miners who emigrated were of Cornish descent, most coming directly from Cornwall

Tides out but such a beautiful coastline as all the caravans hog the foreshore. Moonta is a fascinating journey back into the mining history and heritage of the area. The closure of the mines in 1923 led to a rapid decline in population but Moonta survived as an agricultural and service centre. Since the 1970's it has been supported by a growing tourism industry and we can attest to that as we are staying over the June long weekend and the caravan park is full.

Yes a picture does tell a story - too many Cornish pasties by the look of those hips! Jut having a bit of fun at the visitors centre which is housed in the beautiful old Railway Station built more than 100 years ago and heritage listed. From here you can take a 50 minute trip on the tourist train through historic landmarks of the former mining operations. We plan to do this later on but we have to change first.