| MT BARKER - SOUTH AUSTRALIA - 5251 | ||||
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Population: 14,500, Height above sea level: 360m Latitude: 35.0700 Longitude: 138.5500 Location: 35km east of Adelaide Highway: South Eastern Fwy Nearest Major Town: Adelaide Nearest Airport: Adelaide Touring Area: Adelaide Hills |
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 Main street Mount Barker. | |
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Developed in 1839 by a group of 3 businessmen who secured the rights
to the land on the present site of Mount Barker, the trio were hampered in their
endeavours by settlers who were reluctant to purchase wheat-farming land without
a local market for their produce. The developers overcame this problem by enticing
one John Dunn to build a steam driven mill in the town and the rural township
of Mount Barker developed around the mill.
The pretty, tree-lined streets are dotted with historic buildings and there is an adequate commercial centre with an assortment of trades from supermarkets to quaint bric-a-brac and curio shops. The town was named after Captain Collett Barker, who led an expedition of discovery from Cape Jervis, across the ranges to the Murray mouth to confirm favourable reports of potential agricultural land in the area, instigated by Captain Charles Sturt after his epic voyage along the inland river system from the Murrumbidgee to the Murray mouth in 1930-31. PLACES OF INTEREST: Near the junction of the main shopping street and the road to Strathalbyn, this historic home is now closed to the public but its elegant style may still be seen from the road. John Dunn built this steam driven mill in Mount Barker and the rural township developed around the mill. This was awarded to the Mount Barker Agricultural Bureau in 1824 after being donated in 1913 by Sir John Duncan as a special prize for the first district to win the District Produce Exhibit prize, 5 times. It was won after wins from 1920. The trophy is on display at the National Australia Bank in Gawler St. during bank hours. The trophy is crafted in solid silver, and its value is enhanced by the craftmanship in its manufacture. This area of lakes and parklands is being developed by the council off Adelaide Rd. Facilities include lakes for canoeing, walking paths, playground, picnic seating and BBQ facilities. The park is a perfect area for a quiet walk, or a spot of lunch. The car park is an ideal starting point for the Historic Walk of Mt. Barker. Located at 4 Railway Tce., Brian O'Malley and Bridget Gardiner print their marblesque designs onto a range of silk, cotton fabrics and paper. The ancient craft of marbling was established in Japan in the 12th. century. They have perfected printing on to fabric from a liquid seaweed medium. They produce a range of items including scarves, ties, shirts, jackets, papers, stationery, photo frames and cards. Their unique marble designs are all original. Helen and Greg Larkins began Larnera Terracotta in March 1988. They produce a collection of designer, decor, boutique and hostess products which are available in acrylic glazed and natural finishes. You can see them producing their wares in their facilities at Enterprise Park. A visit to Mount Barker Summit will give some indication of the original flora of the district. The woodland trees include Blue Gum, Manna Gum, Sheoak, Silver Banksia and Native Cherry. The Grass Trees and Correas are indicative of the rocky nature of the summit and do not occur elsewhere in the district. In spring the ground flora reveals well over 100 species of interesting wildflowers and small plants, a diversity not found in the surrounding countryside, where they have been replaced with introduced species. The Mount Barker District Association has a particular interest in conserving the indigenous flora of the district. Ph: 8391 1843 or 8391 0596. ACCOMMODATION & SERVICES: 
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© Copyright Peter W. Wilkins