Whyalla is one of the most populous cities in South Australia. Since the beginning of the 20th century, Whyalla has experienced rapid improvement which is evident in the form of incorporated shipyard and steel work.
Broken Hill Proprietary Company, the world’s largest mining company, was initiated here. Steel and other heavy industry such as shipbuilding is still part of Whyalla’s life. While visiting Whyalla, you are suggested to spare some time to visit the iconic steelworks. However, there is also the soft side of Whyalla loaded with peaceful lawns, gardens, and foreshores.
This guide aims to uncover some best places in Whyalla. Gear up and be ready to witness the mesmerizing and modern site of Whyalla.
5 Most Famous Attractions of Whyalla
If you are willing to explore them, from lush green to heavy steelwork sites in Whyalla, follow the below list
- Ada Ryan Gardens
It is the set adjective to the foreshore and is well laid out from the water businesses such as Marina and Jetty. Till 1918, it was the setting for Whyalla’s first cemetery, which has become a focal place for visitors and residents to walk, have a picnic, play lawn tennis and come with children for a simple outing.
Ada Ryan Gardens is a classic blend of trees that builds a natural shaded lawn with incorporated flower beds. Moreover, it is webbed with accessible and well-paved footpaths complemented with lines of beds. There is a playground for kids and an astonishing BBQ set up for picnics.
The garden is well maintained and contains a huge variety of both native and introduced flower bending. Here you can also find some aviaries to showcase some local animal life. Kids enjoy wandering in the recently upgraded animal enclosures and are home to kangaroos.
- Whyalla Marina
Marina is actually the best refreshing dip if you want a fresh start to the day with a soothing view and noise. Here is a swimming platform that allows you to get a bath in clear and sheltered water secured by a net.
If you are lucky, you may witness Whyalla’s bottlenose dolphin. They are calm water animals; you can also pat them. They are cheeky, exquisite, and curious. Marina is a friendly place, perfect for family or couples’ lunch. You can also catch a boat for a great day of fishing and catch blue swimming crabs, tommy ruff, and garfish.
Remember that the sea animals are generally friendly, it is better to maintain a safe distance. Do not feed them or handle them without professional assistance and security presence.
- Whyalla Maritime Museum
As you arrive at Whyalla, it is impossible to overlook a ship sitting beside the highway. This is HMAS Whyalla. It was the first ship built in the newly inaugurated shipyard in 1941. This ship played a crucial role in World War 1 and spent some time as a minesweeper. After giving worthy services, it is sitting 2km inland and serving as the focal point of Whyalla Maritime Museum.
The museum itself is packed with local area information from shipbuilding and steel industry to exploration to Sealife. There is also an artificial model explaining the local railway. The addition of plenty of models of the ships is also showcased in some parts.
There is naturally a great emphasis on Whyalla that amazes many tourists with the number of ships built here. To witness historic scenes, you need to watch a video showing the placement of HMAS Whyalla from water to its current location.
To entirely visit the museum, you need to join any tour that generally operates twice a day. It is worth gaining experience. Despite a large number of artifacts, there is no dust. Moreover, the car parking is easily accessible and convenient.
- Cuttlefesh
This is an experience not to be missed if you are visiting Whyalla. In May and August, giant cuttlefish migrate to shore and in rocky reef areas. There are the largest cuttlefish species which grows about half a meter long and generally weighs up to 10.5 kg.
These marine animals also utilize pigment-changing chromatophores to switch color instantly. In order to celebrate this, the local tourist organization has started the official Cuttlefest, which generally takes place in the middle of the year.
Apart from fish, a lot happens on the land, from lantern parades to art shows. However, the best is yet to be seen in snorkeling or diving. You do not need to hire a guide. It is as simple as going out in a wetsuit and jumping into the water. Swimming or snorkeling in the frigid waters seems magical and mesmerizing to witness these amazing creatures.
- Hummock Hill Lookout
It is a hilltop above the Marina that was the official site of Whyalla’s first European settlement at the beginning of the 20th century. It offers a great view out to the sea and of the new spectacular jetty and steel works. It is the most palpable attraction, which makes the ample parking space tight at peak times.
Hummock Hill Lookout is a good hiking site to reach the top, but you can also adopt the road for driving. At the top, there are several viewpoints, including the small silver of history. A large gun used during World War 2 is fixed as the protection of shipyards and steelworks, which were remarkable instrumentals during the Australian War efforts.
The scenery from the top is amazing as you will get a panoramic view over Whyalla and its port and steelworks.
Final Words
Whyalla is one of the largest cities in South Australia, with a small population. It is an ideal place to spend a vacation because it is loaded with lush green lands, Rocky Mountains, sea shore, and local festivals to celebrate every site.
Visiting Whyalla will offer you insight into the history and practically witness the traces of the World Wars and Australian Wars. The weapons and traveling equipment are explicitly showcased. While visiting steel and historical places, do not forget to appreciate the charm of the quiet and serene side of Whyalla.