Beachport

Beachport is a very small fishing/holiday village. The population of about 500 during the off season would grow considerably during the holiday season, as with most seaside towns. All the locals seem to be associated with the Lobster fishing or support industries.

The central point of Beachport is it's jetty. Built around the mid 1800's it's completed length was 4000 feet (about 1230 m) with a 200 feet head section. It is currently about 2500 feet long (about 760 m). 

A view from a lofty vantage point looking over a boat yard towards the end of the jetty. Apart from tourism during the peak season the main industry here is Southern Rock Lobster Fishing. We spoke to the owner of the boat that is just coming out of boat shed, all the catch from the SA coast is destined for China, Aussies cannot afford the price.

Jude and I were wandering around the side streets of Beachport and found some interesting sights, like this 'His and Hers' toilets behind a house. They didn't seem to mind me walking in and taking this photograph.

Tucked in between two buildings on the main street is this tiny church. There is no information signage but even though it has been refurbished I would assume that it has been here for some time.

Port Macdonnell

We decided to make a day tour from Nelson to Port Macdonnell as this was not on our planned route. Along the way there was a turn-off to Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park and we decided that this was worth investigation.

 

Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park is on the coast of South Eastern South Australia. This is the view from atop the sand dunes along the coast towards Port Macdonnell.

The main pond of The Piccaninnie Ponds system. These ponds are very popular with snorkelers and scuba divers. This pond is 75 metres deep and cone shaped. There is another cavern beneath this pond that is accessible through a narrow opening.

The clarity of the water in Piccaninnie Ponds is astounding.

The wharf at Port Macdonnell, with moored fishing vessels visible in the back ground.

The day of our visit there was a stiff south-westerly blowing. Great conditions for these kite flying enthusiasts.

Some of the vessels moored in the harbour. This photograph taken from the end of the wharf.

At Port Macdonnell there is a huge breakwater. The semi circular wall must be close to 1000 metres in length. The last half of the wall is visible in this photograph.

The larger 'Cray Boats' are removed from the water in the off season and stored in this holding area.

More 'Cray Boats' from another angle. Many of these boats are 43 feet (approx 13 Metres) in length.