Explore the North: KAPUNDA
Kapunda is a town on the Light River near the Barossa Valley.
It became the first established mining town in South Australia soon after copper was discovered in 1842. Mining began soon after and continued until 1879 when world copper prices fell. Although copper was mined for only a brief period, revenue from its sales saved South Australia from bankruptcy. When the railway was established in 1860, Kapunda became the rural centre for the Mid-North of the State.
Kapunda has produced many of South Australia’s most significant men. Since 1857 and over the following hundred years, 31 of the State’s Members of Parliament were either born in Kapunda or had lived in the town at some stage during their lifetime. Four of these men became Premiers of South Australia whilst two went on to become Premiers in Western Australia and Tasmania.
Today, Kapunda is developing both residentially and industrially, but there still remains that relaxed country atmosphere which is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Kapunda is a community with a strong arts culture; discover the murals, public art and studios around the town that reflect the past and the present. Or to learn more about the history of Kapunda visit the Kapunda Museum and the exhibition Bagots Fortune.
Download the app “Discover the Light” on Apple or Android to discover the Kapunda Heritage Trail and make sure to visit the Sir John Franklin Hotel.
