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Royal Circus, Robe

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Royal Circus, Robe

The Royal Circus is associated with the establishment and operation of Robe as one of the earliest major seaports in South Australia. The township was first surveyed from here in 1846 by the colony's deputy surveyor-general, Thomas Burr. The Royal Circus then served as a roundabout, guiding the flow of wagons as they delivered wool to the port and collected supplies for pastoral stations from Ormerod's store, which stood on the site of the current council chambers. In modern times, the Royal Circus is a major attraction for visitors, maritime history enthusiasts and even art lovers. Taking pride of place is the bronze sculptures of maritime explorers Matthew Flinders and Nicolas Baudin, cast by the late Robe artist, Pat Moseley. They stand alongside a cannon, believed to have come from the Dutch ship Koning Willem II, which came to grief during a storm in the bay in 1857, resulting in the tragic loss of 16 crew members. The panoramic views from the Royal Circus include the breathtaking waters of Guichen Bay, Customs House to the Robe Marina, the Chinese Monument Pai Fang and also straight down to Front Beach. If you walk up the stone steps to the top, you can read the plaques dedicated to the names of the vessels that were lost at sea in the treacherous waters along our coastline.

Robe SA

0.2 km away

View of Robe Customs House Maritime Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Robe Customs House Maritime Museum

This iconic Robe building was erected in 1863 to serve one of the busiest ports on the southern coast of Australia – for several years the customs revenue collected here was second only to Port Adelaide, and some 16,500 Chinese landed here on their way to the Victorian goldfields in the mid 1800s. Designed by colonial architect William Hanson, the Customs House was built of limestone with striking red-brick quoins by local contractors, Pearce and Savage. It is set in what was the heart of the working port and the administrative centre, with panoramic views of Guichen Bay. This is where the transfer of goods between land and sea routes took place, and bonds and customs duties were paid. The front door faces the Royal Circus, which functioned as a roundabout for teamsters delivering wool for export. Run by the Robe Branch of the National Trust SA, it became a museum in 1969 after being the local council offices for many years. The Branch also provide school programs and bus tour guides. The displays in the museum tell the stories of gold fever and the Chinese migrants as well as the many shipwrecks and general everyday life for the early settlers of the period. There are several display cases of interesting artefacts from the area, and a slide show of historical photographs .

Robe SA

0.2 km away

Robe Old Police Stables — Image credit: Valerie Monaghan

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Robe Old Police Stables

This State Heritage listed building was built in 1864 as part of the government administration centre from which the Government Resident was to administer the whole of the South East of South Australia. It was designed to have stabling for three horses ridden by the Police Troopers as they carried out their duties over the entire area. This block also included the first police station and later the military barracks (later the police barracks), since demolished, and also the Court House and Police Lockup which are still standing. In 1936 plans were drawn to convert the stables to a garage for the police vehicle The police stables were gifted to the National Trust of South Australia in 2018, and currently require extensive conservation work before being made available for public use.

Robe SA

0.2 km away

Om Mandalas Art and Wellbeing Hub

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Om Mandalas Art and Wellbeing Hub

Om Mandalas is a boutique studio focused on promoting art and well-being through the practice of mandala art, meditation and healing. The signature Om Mandalas Art and Wellbeing Hub is a sanctuary for individuals seeking a creative and mindful escape from the demands of daily life. Relax and meet the Artist and Founder, Cathy Armfield who specializes in hand-drawn, Commissioned Personal and Corporate Mandalas, and Limited Editions Prints. Om Mandalas also offers fun Art Classes, a powerful Transformation Course, Workshops, Women's Retreats and Alternative Therapies. Om Mandalas believes the art of mandalas is not just about drawing patterns, but rather a meditative practice that helps individuals cultivate mindfulness and inner peace. It's more than just art. Their mission is to make this practice accessible to all and to provide a welcoming and supportive space for individuals to explore their creativity and inner selves. You will be delighted with a beautiful range of crystals, jewellery, sacred geometry prints, greeting cards and aura sprays that help you align, balance and restore your mental, emotional and physical well-being.

Robe SA

0.4 km away

Robe cemetery circa 1890s, showing the grave of George Affleck Danby — Image credit: Robe Local History Collection

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Robe Historic Cemetery

Recognised as having national heritage significance, Robe's cemetery reflects the area's rich and diverse history. The cemetery contains the graves of pioneering pastoralists, men and women drowned at sea, and emigrant settlers from across the world who came to Australia to make new lives. Among them are people associated with prominent figures such as the Lea family, famous as the manufacturers of Lea and Perrin Worcestershire Sauce; South Australian Police Commissioner Alexander Tolmer, who led the gold escorts that saved the colony's economy during the Victorian goldrush; and Melbourne businessman and philanthropist, Sir John Grice, who cut his business teeth at Robe, managing the local shipping house. Visitors can explore some of these fascinating stories through a dedicated website and a smart-phone app created by the Robe History Group, working in conjunction with the community as part of a project called Tombstone Tourists. To find out more and download the app, visit https://robewalk.com/

Robe SA

0.6 km away

View of the 8th — Image credit: Robe Golf Club

Entertainment Venues

Robe Golf Club Inc.

Located on the Limestone Coast 340kms South East of Adelaide South Australia and 530kms North West of Melbourne Victoria. Situated in the heart of Robe, a popular seaside resort town with excellent fishing, pristine white sandy beaches and many cafes, restaurants, and retail offerings. The 18-hole course is unique in that it offers three distinct loops each of 6 holes. Recently the course underwent a major expansion with the addition of six new, high quality, professionally designed holes by Neil Crafter nestled amongst massive sand dunes with spectacular views of the wild Southern Ocean off West Beach as well as the town and over Long Beach and Guichen Bay. Visitors are welcome. Ladies Comp Wed, Mens Comp Wed and Open Comp on Sundays. 12 Hole Social Chook Run Friday. Comps available everyday through summer. Bookings are advised.

Robe SA

0.7 km away

Bodywork to reduce tension.

Spas and Retreats

BodyTune Health Care

Do you need a 'tune-up'? BodyTune Health Care is dedicated to providing stress management naturally for physical, emotional, spiritual and mental well-being. Techniques to keep your brain/body system 'switched-on' for living, learning and in your business, include individual bodywork using kinesiology, Reiki and other energy work, acupressure, massage, cranio-sacral work and myofascial release techniques. Distant healing is available. Zoom is used for goal-setting sessions, workshops and courses for personal development, educational and business groups. Networking opportunities for healthy products include organic and certified organic products, wellness and immune system support, and pure essential oils.

Robe SA

0.9 km away

Robe Obelisk

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Robe Obelisk

The Robe Obelisk stands proudly on the point of Cape Dombey and was constructed by local builder George Shivas at a cost of £230 in 1855. The Obelisk was used to create a landmark to navigate the entrance into Guichen Bay and to store rocket fired lifesaving equipment for stricken ships. Later it assisted passing ships with navigation, standing at a height of 12 metres it is easily visible 20 kilometres out to sea. In 1862, after complaints by the Captains that the then white Obelisk was difficult to differentiate from Long Beach's white sand hills, it was repainted in alternate red and white bands. The Robe Obelisk is one of the town's most recognisable landmarks and an enduring symbol of Robe's coastal character and maritime history. the Obelisk has long been a popular destination for visitors and a much-loved local icon. In more recent years, the Obelisk has gained increased attention as the effects of coastal erosion threaten its long-term survival. The continuing retreat of the coastline has brought the cliffs increasingly close to the historic structure, creating uncertainty about how long the Obelisk will remain in its current location. Its potential loss has heightened community and visitor interest, with people keen to experience, photograph and appreciate the landmark while it remains accessible. *Park at Old Goal and walk to view the Obelisk.

Robe SA

1.2 km away

Breadtag Products — Image credit: Transmutation

Shopping and Markets

Transmutation

Transmutation is an artisan business that makes & sell products in the circular economy from recycled plastic. Transmutation takes waste plastic and transforms it to useful products such as homewares, bowls and platters and construction industry products onsite. It does this with machines that were made by the owner using scrap materials as well as full scale industrial machines. The shop also has a retail showroom that has quality products from circular economy artisans including hats and boots from truck tarps, beach towels from recycled water bottles and rope mats made from crayfishermen waste ropes to name a few. They are also the home of the Breadtag Bowls and Boards made onsite from 5000 bread tags that have been collected from around Australia by the charity "Aussie Breadtags for Wheelchairs". Products are also sold in Country Road Australia during periodical collaborations and the construction products sold directly to Tier 1 construction companies and large Projects.

Robe SA

1.2 km away

Beacon Hill Lookout — Image credit: Robe Public Library

Landmarks and Buildings

Beacon Hill Lookout

The original wooden structure, formally named “One Tree Hill” was used as a navigational aid for fishermen. Local contractor Marc Dawson was tasked with the job of rebuilding the Robe Lookout Tower at Beacon Hill as part of the Robe “150” Celebrations in 1996. The old wooden structure was removed and replaced by a circular paddock stone tower offering panoramic views of Robe. The tower is constructed with a central core of Mount Gambier stone ashlars and a freestone face. A poured in-situ reinforced concrete staircase leads to the top viewing platform. Local, paddock-picked, limestone collected from nearby properties was used for the freestone face. Access to the base of the tower is by a timber boardwalk, approximately 28 metres long, with an overall rise of over three metres. The boardwalk was constructed by 13 of the Robe and District Lions Club members who contributed in excess of 130 hours of voluntary labour. In 2022, the Robe and District Lions Club returned to clean up and re-plant the vegetation surrounding the tower and perform some required maintenance to the tower and boardwalk.

Robe SA

2.5 km away

Long Beach, Robe

Natural Attractions

Long Beach, Robe

Long Beach is an iconic Robe attraction with picturesque aquamarine water and approxmately 12 kilometers of white sandy beach. It is quite unique as it is one of the few beaches where you are able to drive your car onto the sand. A safe family beach for swimming and surfing, with gentle surf around First Ramp and Second Ramp and larger surf is usually around Third Ramp onwards. If you're a surfing, fishing, windsurfing or SUP board enthusiast, Long Beach offers wind and waves and pristine waters to satisfy your outdoor adventures. Long Beach was listed by Lonely Planet as one of 100 Best Beaches in Australia in 2026. A must visit when visiting Robe.

Robe SA

2.5 km away

The Outlet: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers — Image credit: District Council of Robe

Natural Attractions

The Outlet

The Outlet, where the Drain L lakes system meets the sea, is a hidden haven for nature lovers. Wander along the water's edge, breathe in the fresh coastal air, and keep an eye out for the abundant shorebirds such as the Ibis, Egret and Sooty Oystercatchers that wade in the shallow waters. The Bird Hide at Fox 's Lake is the perfect spot to to observe local and migratory waders amongst the samphire tidal flats. You may catch a glimpse of the rare species of Latham's Snipe, which breed's in Japan and has been spotted here by the lucky few. Whether you're bird watching, exploring or simply enjoying a moment of calm, this peaceful spot is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Take your time and soak in the serenity.

Robe SA

2.6 km away

Robe CSIRO Research Field Station — Image credit: Valerie Monaghan

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Robe CSIRO Research Station

This State Heritage listed site and small corrugated-iron building played a pivotal role in changing agricultural practices around the world during its years of operation from 1935 to 1976. The first pastoralists to settle in the Guichen Bay district discovered that despite apparently lush grazing, sheep left too long in certain areas developed brittle 'steely' wool and wasted away. Observed in coastal regions across southern Australia, the fatal ailment became known as Coast Disease, but the cause remained a mystery. With the cause of Coast Disease being discovered to be deficiency of cobalt and copper, focus shifted to finding a practical way to prevent it. Copper deficiency could in part be overcome by topdressing pasture, but that didn't work with cobalt. Drenching was effective but it had to be done weekly with small doses for the best results, which was impractical on a large scale. It took considerable ingenuity and many more years of research by the CSIRO and scientists here to find the solution. This involved dosing sheep with a capsule, or bullet, that sat in the animal's rumen and gradually leached cobalt oxide.

Robe SA

4.2 km away

Little boy and camel

Agritourism

Humpalicious Camel Farm

Camels in Robe! Who would have thought! Visit these amazing and intriguing creatures at the Humpalicious Camel Farm. Join a Morning Milking Tour and learn how a camel is milked, meet the camel babies and taste fresh camel milk and camel milk gelato ice cream! Join a Solar Camel Safari and ride in the electric safari buggy amongst a large herd of excited camels! Follow up with a gelato, milkshake, coffee and more!

Mount Benson SA

6.5 km away

Little Dip Conservation Park — Image credit: DEW

Natural Attractions

Little Dip Conservation Park

Little Dip Conservation Park conserves a number of small lakes found throughout the park. Each lake has its own unique character, ranging from the open, marshy and shallow Lake Eliza to the very salty Big Dip Lake, and the deep Fresh Water Lake. The area features a ruggedly beautiful coastline including a large area of coastal sand dunes. The foreshore of Lake Eliza was home to the Boandik people some 10,000 years ago - large numbers of middens (shellfish remains) can still be seen in the park today. The coastal scrub that gives way to thick groves of melaleuca, dense rushes and samphire flats surrounding the lakes is a haven for birdwatchers. The beaches provide good opportunities for beachcombing and surf fishing. Camping is booked and paid online before you go. Cash self-registration stations are no longer in use at this park.

Robe SA

8.8 km away

Lake St Clair Conservation Park — Image credit: DEW

Natural Attractions

Lake St Clair Conservation Park

Lake St Clair Conservation Park protects the largest remaining example of intact native vegetation around the Lake St Clair wetland and lagoon, providing an important habitat for many rare and threatened native wildlife species. Go bushwalking and experience the park's diverse range of flora species including the rare creeping cotula. The park is a haven for bird species, with the swamp providing habitat for many waders. The nationally significant orange-bellied parrot and hooded plover can also occasionally be seen. The park is also frequented by western grey kangaroos, emus, common wombats and echidnas.

Bray SA

24 km away

Butcher Gap Conservation Park — Image credit: DEW

Natural Attractions

Butcher Gap Conservation Park

Butcher Gap Conservation Park is one of the last remaining significant coastal scrubs between the Coorong and Robe. This wetland area, encompassing Salt Lake and Butcher Lake, is separated by the Butcher Gap Drain which brings large amounts of fresh water from the farmlands, through the park and out to sea. The park attracts an array of wildlife throughout the year. Seasonal waterbirds such as swans and white-faced herons frequent the lakes, while small bush birds may be seen along the park's scenic walking trails.

Sandy Grove SA

32 km away

Woakwine opening

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Woakwine Cutting

The Woakwine Cutting is an outstanding example of engineering. Accomplished by just two men, a D7 tractor was used to make a cutting through the Woakwine Range to drain swampland for farming. The project began in May 1957 and took three years to complete. The length of the cutting is one kilometre and the depth at the deepest point is 28.34 metres. The width of the cutting at the top is 36.57 metres and three metres at the bottom. There were 276,000 cubic metres of material removed using a new D7 tractor over a total of 5000 hours. Woakwine is an Aboriginal name, meaning elbow or bent arm and refers to the shape of the large watercourse near the Woakwine homestead. The cutting has a viewing platform, information boards and machinery on display.

Beachport SA

35 km away

Beachport Conservation Park

Natural Attractions

Beachport Conservation Park

Beachport Conservation Park's white sandy beaches and coastal flora is home to an array of birdlife, making it an ideal spot for bird watching. Bring your binoculars for the chance to spy a rare orange-bellied parrot that occupies the coastal salt marsh and beach dune habitats. As you explore the park look out for hooded plovers which are often seen nesting along the beach. Special features of the park include its weathered limestone cliffs and middens - the discarded remains of shellfish left by the Boandik Aboriginal people. The walking trail around Woolley Lake offers panoramic views of the ocean and neighbouring Lake George. Afterwards, enjoy a picnic at Lake George or go swimming or sailing in the waters at Five Mile Drift. Camping is booked and paid online before you go. Cash self-registration stations are no longer in use at this park.

Beachport SA

36 km away

Jack and Hilda Walk

Natural Attractions

Jack And Hilda McArthur Walk (Woolley Lake)

The Jack and Hilda McArthur Walk is situated in the Beachport Conservation Park, approximately five kilometres north of Beachport between Lake George and the coast. Woolley Lake is a small saltwater lagoon surrounded by native trees at the southern end of the park. A walkway has been constructed around this lake and a lookout from which Woolley Lake, Lake George and the Woakwine Range can be viewed. A bird hide has been built beside a small freshwater hole near the car park. A walk around the lake takes approximately thirty to forty five minutes.

Beachport SA

36 km away

Lighthouse framed by flags

Landmarks and Buildings

Cape Jaffa Lighthouse

Step into history and marvel at Kingston’s unforgettable Cape Jaffa Lighthouse experience! Discover the incredible story of Australia’s first lighthouse to be dismantled and re-erected onshore. Let the tales of resilience, adventure, and determination captivate your imagination as you follow in the footsteps of the dedicated lightkeepers. Witness the mesmerizing brilliance of the lighthouse lens and uncover the challenges faced by women living miles from shore. Explore the Margaret Brock shipwreck exhibition, interact with fascinating displays, and admire rare, original lighthouse artifacts that offer a unique glimpse into the past. Our knowledgeable guides will customize your tour to ensure it’s as engaging as it is unforgettable. Whether you're a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for something extraordinary in Kingston SE, the Cape Jaffa Lighthouse Museum promises a journey filled with intrigue, beauty, and inspiration. With both day and night tours available, there’s no better time to experience the magic of this historic treasure. The Cape Jaffa Lighthouse is more than a landmark – it’s a story waiting to be told. Come and let it light up your adventure!

Kingston Se SA

37 km away

Site of the Kingston Preserving and Canning Factory

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Kingston Heritage Trail

Historic Kingston starts here... a walking guide to Kingston's Heritage. The Kingston Heritage Trail offers a self-guided walking tour to its history of which features 35 sites and has been designed to provide visitors with some background into the significant old buildings that give Kingston its unique yet relaxed character. Don't forget to take a moment to rest your legs and enjoy the hospitality of our eateries, shops and establishments, many of which have brought new opportunities to our historic buildings.

Kingston Se SA

38 km away

Wind Dance

Landmarks and Buildings

Wind Dance - Augmented Reality Mural

See South Australia’s first augmented reality mural ‘Wind Dance’, located in Kingston SE. Talented mural artist, Sarah Boese, completed the project in December 2020. Wind Dance is designed to capture the personality of Kingston and features themes that acknowledge nature, Aboriginal culture and coastal lifestyle. The heron, a spiritual totem that is important to the Meintangk people, is a symbol of determination, resilience and tranquillity. The circular patterns tie in with the local Aboriginal practice of weaving and pay respect to their deep connection with the land. Smoke drifts through the artwork reminding us of the devastating bushfires that occurred in the region in December 2019 and native spider orchids represent regrowth and healing. The soaring fish reflect family activities and summers by the beach and were inspired by the popular kite festival that takes place in Kingston. Represented as kites, the fish attached to a string remind us that whilst we are connected to nature, we can’t always control it. Instead, we can embrace and respect the delicate natural cycles of our environment. Located in Kingston’s main street, on the corner Agnes and Charles Streets, this stunning artwork is a must see when visiting the Limestone Coast. This project is an Australian Government bushfire recovery initiative and was commissioned by the Kingston District Council in the wake of the Keilira Bushfire in December 2019.

Kingston Se SA

38 km away

Seal

Landmarks and Buildings

Kingston Sundial of Human Involvement

Blending ancient and modern knowledge, the ‘analemmic’ sundial uses your body to tell the time. Located on a small island on the Maria Creek Reserve next to Apex Park, the sundial consists of a series of granite hour-markers upon which your shadow is cast from a central analemma (a solar chart) telling you the time of day. Also look out for the fish, animal and wave sculptures around the sundial and the town.

Kingston Se SA

39 km away

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