Port MacDonnell & District Maritime Museum

Located near Mount Gambier in Port MacDonnell, the Port MacDonnell & District Maritime Museum boasts a rich history of South Australia and the sea around it. The museum was opened in 1990 and launched officially in 2012.

The shipwreck museum tells the story of many sea vessels which were involved in accidents in the 19th Century. The area has been described by many as the place where the vessels came to grief.

When visiting the museum you must make sure to see Admella, an ill-fated vessel which was involved in an accident in 1859, killing 89 passengers. This was one of the worst maritime disasters to strike Australia. A professional model of the steamer, together with its signal cannon and bell, is found in this museum.

The museum is famous for rock lobsters. The largest fishing fleet for rock lobster is based in this area. No wonder the area is called the “Southern Rock Lobster Capital of Australia”.

Port MacDonnell & District Maritime Museum gives you an opportunity to read the stories behind the port; once the second largest trade destination in South Australia. There are stories about early industries which led to the growth of the port. Some of the industries included crawfishing and boat making. You will see collections and photographs of 30 sea vessels that sunk on the local coastline. This includes 5 vessels which could not be traced after leaving the port. Exhibits include communication equipment, ship logs and diaries.

Port MacDonnell & District Maritime Museum is located inside a community complex that also houses an exhibition gallery and a public gallery. So when visiting Mount Gambier for the weekend, make sure to check out the exhibitions held here all year round.