Goyder Region Local History
The Goyder Region in South Australia is a vast area spanning over 17,000 square kilometres. It is named after George Goyder, an esteemed Surveyor-General of the colony, who made significant contributions to the development of the region. This area has a rich and fascinating history, from its indigenous roots to its explorers and settlers, and to its present-day communities.
Indigenous people inhabited the Goyder region for tens of thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. The Kaurna people were the indigenous inhabitants of Adelaide and the surrounding plains. The Ngadjuri people lived in the mid-north of South Australia, while the Nukunu people inhabited the southern Flinders Ranges of South Australia. Just like other parts of Australia, the indigenous peoples lived in harmony with the land, and their traditional ways of life revolved around hunting, gathering, fishing, and ceremonies that celebrated their rich cultural heritage.
As European settlements started to develop, the Goyder region became a crucial area for grazing and agriculture. In 1863, the government appointed George Goyder to start laying out the Hundred of Hall. The region quickly became a centre for agriculture, and crops such as wheat, barley, and oats soon became dominant in the area. The town of Burra was created in 1845 after copper was discovered in the area. The mines were the largest copper mines in the southern hemisphere during the mid-19th century and were the driving force behind the development of Burra. However, by the 1870s, the copper had been largely depleted, and the Burra area diversified into agricultural production.
The Goyder region was also home to famous Australian explorers and pioneers. Sir Sidney Kidman was a successful Australian pastoralist and cattle king who spent much of his life in the region. Kidman's success in the early days of the cattle industry was due to his innovation, such as moving animals long distances to isolated areas where the grass was plentiful. His extensive network of properties was eventually spread across 68 million hectares of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.
During World War II, the Goyder region was a crucial centre for the Australian war effort. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) operated training facilities in the area. The town of Port Pirie was a crucial centre for the manufacturing of munitions, with the lead smelters playing a vital role
Present-day, the Goyder region continues to serve as an agricultural powerhouse, with a significant number of farms producing wheat, wool, and barley. Goyder's famous climate is also used to cultivate crops such as strawberries and cherries. The region is also a tourist attraction, renowned for its scenic beauty and historic sites. The Flinders Ranges offer a vast expanse of rugged terrain and stunning vistas, while the Clare Valley is home to famous wineries and vineyards, making it a popular spot for wine enthusiasts.
The Goyder region is a unique and magnificent part of South Australia, marked by its rich history and cultural heritage. It has a special place in the hearts of South Australians and continues to play an economic and social role in the state. Goyder’s pioneering spirit is still evident today, and its commitment to sustainable farming confirms the region’s position as one of South Australia’s most significant cultural and historical treasures.