Whyalla and Beyond
We didn’t expect to fall for Whyalla, but this coastal city turned out to be full of surprises.
Our first stop was the town’s most iconic feature — the circular jetty. It arcs gracefully over the water and offered a unique vantage point back toward the coastline. With gulls overhead and gentle waves below, it’s an easy spot to lose an hour just soaking up the view (and snapping a few too many photos).
We booked a tour of the Whyalla Steelworks, and honestly, it was fascinating. Heavy industry might not be everyone’s thing, but watching red-hot steel being poured and learning how the mill operates gave us a new appreciation for what powers this town. The guides were full of insight and local pride, which made the experience even better.
One morning, we jumped on the motorbikes and took a ride out to Point Lowly Lighthouse. The road hugs the coastline, with sweeping sea views and barely another soul in sight. The lighthouse itself is a beauty, stark white against blue sky. The perfect place to stretch the legs and watch the waves roll in. The ride back was pure freedom, salty air and all.
We did make a stop at the beaches near Point Lowly, hoping to spot the famous giant cuttlefish that migrate here each year — but sadly, we were a bit too early. The season hadn’t quite kicked off, so the water remained quiet. Still, it’s just another reason to come back. Swimming alongside those incredible creatures is firmly on our bucket list.
Next, we climbed aboard the HMAS Whyalla, a WW2-era corvette turned museum ship. Moored on dry land, this restored beauty gave us a glimpse into naval life. From the cramped sleeping quarters to the engine room, it was a hands-on step into maritime history. Afterwards, we popped across to the Mt Laura Homestead Museum, a collection of heritage buildings that helped fill in the picture of Whyalla’s early years.
From Whyalla, we pointed the van south and rolled into Cowell. It’s a quiet fishing town, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. The silo art is a standout — bold, colourful, and beautifully executed. We lingered long enough for a seafood lunch and a look around before heading back to camp.
Coastal industry, naval heritage, two wheels and windswept views — this stretch of the Eyre Peninsula gave us more than we bargained for in the best way.
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