Burra, located 160 kilometres north of Adelaide and with a population of 980, represents an exciting story of revitalisation made possible through the combination of heritage presentation, creative tourism marketing and the contribution of a local action and preservation group.
In 1851 Burra had the richest copper mine in the world and was Australia’s largest inland town. Up until 1860, Burra’s famed ‘monster mine’ was the largest metal mine in Australia. In 1877, mining ceased and the town continued primarily as a pastoral centre.
A public meeting was held in 1965, where it was decided that preservation action would be launched under the banner of the State’s National Heritage Trust. The newly formed group, the Burra Burra Branch of the National Trust of South Australia, aimed to preserve the unique building and mining heritage, and initiate new economic life into the town.
Over the last 35 years, key achievements include the following.
- Redruth Gaol and Old Dugouts secured as Trust properties
- Market Square Museum, which also serves also as the Trust’s headquarters
- Burra Mine Site reopened
- Key hire system to access Redruth Gaol and the miners’ dugouts, as well as a guide book
- Burra used as a setting for the acclaimed Australian film ‘Breaker Morant’
- Burra Charter developed, outlining principles and procedures to be followed in heritage conservation
- Burra Tourist Office opened
- Burra township placed on the Register of the National Estate
- Burra Heritage Passport, based on the key hire system, introduced
- Heritage Advisory Service introduced into South Australia.
- Burra declared a State Heritage Area.
Over time, locals have become used to the idea that preserving their unique heritage is good for business and local employment, especially during the recent decade of depressed wool prices. Annually, Burra attracts some 30,000 visitors and it is estimated that these tourists contribute $10 million into the local economy.
Factors identified by locals as important in the town’s revitalisation, include recognition of their comparative advantage in terms of heritage assets, innovative marketing, the role of the Burra Burra Branch of the National Trust of South Australia and strategic alliances.
For information contact the Regional Council of Goyder CEO, Stephen Kerrigan, telephone (08) 8892 2100, or the Burra Burra Branch of the National Trust, telephone (08) 8892 2461.
