Historical Walks
Photo credit: Dave Hartley
The Randell Walk
Step back into the steam trade era of South Australia with the Randell Walk through Mannum. Discover the life of William Randell, the visionary who built the Mary Ann, the first paddle steamer to navigate the Murray River. Delve into the rich history of the Randell family homes, explore the region’s German heritage, and learn about the geology and early life of the Nganguraku people before European settlement.
Randell’s deep understanding of the needs of pastoralists along the river allowed him to establish a thriving freight business. In 1854, he constructed the Woolshed, the first building in Mannum. His efforts in subdividing land and relocating the Mannum Dock from Milang were pivotal in shaping the town’s development. Mannum grew around Randell’s enterprise, cementing his legacy in the region.
Walk details:
Duration: 1-1/2 hours | Difficult in parts
Type: Walk
Difficulty Level: Medium
The Shearer Walk
Embark on The Shearer Walk to explore the rich history of Mannum through fascinating topics such as Shearer properties, early commercial development, river recreation, and the rise of invention and industry.
David Shearer was born on November 7, 1850, in the Orkney Islands of Scotland, and arrived in Australia with his family on the ‘Omega’ in 1852. In 1877, David and his brother John Shearer started as blacksmiths in Mannum and quickly built one of Australia’s most successful agricultural machinery manufacturing businesses. While John later moved to Adelaide, David remained in Mannum, where he constructed one of the earliest Australian automobiles. David Shearer dedicated forty years to serving as a Mannum councillor.
Walk details:
Duration: 40-60 minutes | Some slopes
Type: Walk
Difficulty Level: Medium
The Arnold Walk
Explore The Arnold Walk and discover key historical sites including Arnold properties, Mannum showgrounds, the Murray water pipeline, the Mid Murray Council Office and Police Station, the expanded Shearer factory, Mannum Hospital, and the Soldiers’ Memorial.
Johan Georg Arnold, known as J.G. or “George,” was born on January 24, 1863, in Gothenburg, Sweden. After enduring early hardships at sea, he achieved world-class qualifications as a sea and river captain by 1886. Arriving in South Australia in 1889, George worked on paddle steamers from Mannum and built his business, ‘The Arnold Line of Steamers Ltd,’ by 1913. Throughout his life, he demonstrated courage and innovation, securing large contracts, building and maintaining boats, and establishing a loyal workforce. A dedicated community man, George’s family home, ‘Esmeralda,’ was a hub for family, friends, and sporting groups. His contributions extended to the construction of the Mannum Hospital.
Walk details:
Duration: 1-2 hours | Relatively flat
Type: Walk
Difficulty Level: Easy
Morgan's Historic Town Walk
Journey through time and discover Morgan’s unique heritage and vibrant past on a self-guided tour that highlights the town’s significant sites. Starting at Landseers’ Warehouse, the walk takes you through landmarks like the Marion Lodge, former Soldiers Memorial Hospital, and the historic Wharf. Enjoy picturesque views from the Lookout and discover intriguing spots such as the Morgue, Turntable, and Station Masters Residence. The walk also features historical buildings like the Terminus Hotel, the Postmaster’s Residence, and Kings Row.
You can also explore the historical walk around Blanchetown, the Disappearance of Henry Bryan Trails, and the Malcolm Moss Nature Trail in Cadell.
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