Port Pirie train station

Port Pirie SA 5540 (Pop 17 490)

Port Pirie is a large industrial centre with the world’s largest lead-zinc smelter. It is set on Spencer Gulf, 225 km north of Adelaide and known as the ‘City of Friendly People’. Originally inhabited by the Nuguna Aborigines, European settlement began in 1840s. The smelting works (1889) ensured the area’s future which also produces silver, zinc, copper and gold. Blessing of the Fleet (Sept), Festival of Country Music (Oct).

Tourist Attractions & Info:
National Trust Historic and Folk Museum, Ellen St National Trust museum comprising the old Customs House (1882), Railway Station (1902) and Police Station (1892). Memorial Park, Norman St features the anchor of the ‘John Pirie’ after which the town was named.

Nearby:
Telowie Gorge Conservation Park (25 km n-e) features diverse flora and fauna with the Nukunu Trail leading to beautiful Telowie Gorge. Port Germein (23 km north) pretty Spencer Gulf town with Australia’s longest jetty (1 283 m) and swimming tidal beach. Weeroona Island (13 km north) great fishing and picnic area.

Accommodation:
Port Pirie has half a dozen motels, 7 hotels, holiday apartments and 5 caravan parks. Visitor Information Centre: 3 Mary Elie St. Tel (08) 8633 8700 or 1800 000 424.

Airports:
Port Pirie Aerodrome (PPI), off Port Pirie Rd. Tel (08) 8632 2261. (8 km south); Adelaide Airport (ADL), 1 James Schofield Dr, Adelaide Airport. Tel (08) 8308 9211. (229 km south).

Hospital:
Port Pirie Regional Health Service, cnr The Terrace & Alexander St. Tel (08) 8638 4500.