Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park is a significant historical attraction and a must-see for visitors to Karoonda.

It’s a showcase of the district’s pioneering history, from the construction of the railway, to the vital agriculture industry and everyday farming community life.

Maintained by the Karoonda Historical Society in partnership with the District Council Karoonda East Murray, the park presents a window into Karoonda’s colourful past.

Historic railway carriages that once passed through Karoonda sit on the rebuilt Yurgo railway siding ready to be explored. There’s even the original water pump used to pump water for the steam-era locomotives.

Wynarka’s original pioneer Methodist Church now sits at Pioneer Park, along with a pioneer farmhouse that was once home to the Hood family at nearby Sandalwood. Both were originally built back in 1913.

Explore the Kunlara Post and Telephone Office – possibly one of the smallest ever built in South Australia.

Pioneer Park is open seven days a week and entry is by donation (all funds raised go towards the future development and upkeep of the park).

Walk through the park at your leisure – then explore the Lions Nature Trail and Bushwalk which begins at Pioneer Park.

Discover more within Pioneer Park

With plenty of stories to tell, click on the links below to discover more about the district's pioneering history:

• The Pastoral Era
• The Cash Store
• The Pump Shed
• The Humpy, Hood House & Cellar Door
• Wynarka Methodist Church
• The Garage & Blacksmith Building
• Railway Lines
• Railway Carriages
• Sheep
• Farming Mallee Land
• The Big Shed