Moonta Mines National Heritage Site

Moonta Mines national heritage site forms a unique and important part of the Cornish mining heritage of Australia, and a visit to Moonta and the Moonta Mines State Heritage Area will ensure an educational and informative experience whatever your interests.

In the mid 1800s, Moonta had the richest copper mines in the country. Falling copper prices in 1923 caused closure of most of them. Fortunately much of the infrastructure remained to offer you the opportunity to see our unique and rare national heritage site.

Moonta Mines National Heritage site attractions include:

Education Experiences

There’s a great range of things to do and learn at the National Heritage Listed Moonta Mines.

School Camp visits to Moonta and Moonta Mines

Schools are invited to visit the historic areas of Moonta and Moonta Mines to recapture the spirit of the era when copper mining was at its peak and the Cornish immigrants, their customs, sports and pastimes, food, drink and religion were part of everyday life.

The Moonta Branch of the National Trust or Arura Yorke Peninsula Group Accommodation can be of assistance in the field of Australian studies in the following ways:

  • The Moonta Mines Museum is suitable for bus loads of students to study aspects of the Cornish way of life. Examples of work sheets can be supplied.
  • A Tourist Train is available for tours through the mining area, stopping at the Wash and Dry area where information boards are mounted on the ruins of the Copper Recovery Plant. This tour takes approximately 50 minutes.
  • The Miner’s Cottage was built c1870 and has been decorated, and furnished with items indicative of its status. The heritage garden is also a feature of this area.
  • The Local & Family History Resource Centre, situated in the former School of Mines, Ellen Street, Moonta, is available for studies of former families and industry of the area.
  • Local Historians are available for tours of the Heritage listed Cemetery.
  • Inspection of the Moonta Mines Methodist Church (Uniting) can be arranged.
  • The old Sweet Shop opposite the Museum can supply lunch, drinks and bags of sweets.

Contact us if you’re looking for assistance to help plan a trip to the Heritage listed Moonta Mines.

Enjoy Moonta’s Historical Experiences

Whatever you do, you’ll be made very welcome on Yorke Peninsula!