230 kms from Adelaide
Yorketown is at a junction of five roads that once lead to pastoral runs, all approximately equal distance away. Now a small rural community at the southern end of Yorke Peninsula, there are two hotels, a caravan park, playground and a variety of shops including a supermarket.
In the early days, the area was known as 'Weaners Flat', because it was where the pastoralists separated the lambs from the ewes. The town was settled in 1872 with the name Yorketown being adopted in 1872.
Surrounded by more than 200 salt lakes, the town has a history based on harvesting those lakes. During the First World War 57,000 tonnes of salt was harvested in one year. Production ceased in the 1950s when the salt refinery closed in Edithburgh.
Today, the crystal formations are much loved by photographers. The presence of an algae creates changing hues ranging from deep pink to a paler colur that is almost white.
Take the town walk to discover the area's history. The Historical Society's heritage walk takes in a number of significant buildings including the Old Courthouse which houses a collection of more than 1000 photographs depicting the pioneering days.
Yorketown visitor information outlet is found in the SYP Community Hub on Stansbury Road, and can provide information on the town walk as well as maps and brochures for the local area.
Bublacowie Military Museum
The Bublacowie Military Museum between Yorketown and Minlaton is owned and operated by Chris, a decorated veteran of conflicts in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam. The museum occupies the grounds of the former Bublacowie one teacher school. The school itself was closed in 1943 and recently renovated into a charming residence. The resident ducks, guinea fowl, and fan-tailed pigeons wander free in this delightful setting.
The museum keeps alive the memories of the sacrifices made by so many and helps young people learn about Australia's military history. The venue is set on two acres of native trees and shrubs, in the midst of the very rich wheat and barley growing area of Yorke Peninsula.
There are American pistols, German lugers, machine guns, armament shells of all shapes and sizes, and a ghostly World War 1 gas mask. Although the focus is on military memorabilia, the diversity of exhibits is amazing.
