The Sheep's Back Museum: A Woolly Good Yarn
Explore Australia's wool industry history at The Sheep's Back Museum in Naracoorte, South Australia. Discover the stories, technology, and heritage of wool.
The Sheep's Back Museum offers a captivating journey through the history of Australia's wool industry, housed within a three-story flour mill built in 1866. Since 1984, this historic building has served as the headquarters for the Naracoorte branch of the National Trust SA, preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of wool production in the region. Inside, you'll discover four galleries filled with artifacts, photographs, and stories that bring the wool industry to life. The exhibits focus on the skills and trades of workers in the woolshed, the lifestyle of woolgrowers, and the environmental impact of the industry. A highlight is the 'Robotic Shearer,' a unique piece of technology developed in South Australia, representing the evolution of wool harvesting over 200 years. Beyond the main mill building, explore additional structures that depict the lives of early settlers, including a schoolroom, post office, and farm machinery shed. The museum is also home to the Naracoorte Visitor Information Centre, offering local insights and a range of regional products. The museum is run entirely by volunteers.
Local tips
- Check out the 'Robotic Shearer' in the Big Shed, a unique piece of technology showcasing the evolution of wool harvesting.
- Explore the outdoor buildings for a glimpse into the lives of early settlers, including a schoolroom and post office.
- Visit the Naracoorte Visitor Information Centre within the museum for local tips and souvenirs.
A brief summary to The Sheep's Back Museum
- 36 Macdonnell St, Naracoorte, South Australia, 5271, AU
- +61887621399
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
The Sheep's Back Museum is located at 36 Macdonnell Street in Naracoorte. From the Naracoorte Town Square, walk south on Ormerod Street, then turn left onto Macdonnell Street. The museum will be on your right, approximately a 5-minute walk. There is no cost associated with walking.
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Public Transport
The Stateliner bus service connects Adelaide to Naracoorte, stopping at the Naracoorte Bus Stop. From the bus stop, the museum is a short walk away on Macdonnell Street. A one-way bus ticket from Adelaide to Naracoorte costs between $55 and $85. Local bus services within Naracoorte are limited.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Naracoorte. A taxi from the Naracoorte town center to the museum is a short ride, costing approximately $10-$20. Taxi services can be booked by calling 131 008.
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Driving
The Sheep's Back Museum is located at 36 Macdonnell Street, Naracoorte. Free parking is available nearby. From the Riddoch Highway, turn onto Macdonnell Street. The museum will be on your left. Parking is free.
