Adelaide’s ‘city by the sea,’ Glenelg represents the very essence of South Australia and only a short drive away. This is where colonisation began when, in 1836, the first settlers waded ashore from HMS
Buffalo to gather round an old gum tree while the proclamation establishing the colony of South Australia was read.
The tree still stands, but the first shanty village of mud huts and rush roofs and tents have long been replaced by a modern marine playground city where fine restaurants, a wide variety of shops, marinas and theme parks flank white, sandy beaches.
Not that Glenelg’s city fathers have forgotten their town’s beginnings. A replica of the Buffalo is the centrepiece of the maritime museum and grand old homes and guest houses, once the exclusive domain of Adelaide’s rich and powerful, still line the beachfront.
And, of course, the historic gum, supported by the odd concrete and iron brace, still presides over Proclamation Day ceremonies which are celebrated on December 28 each year.
Things to do
Glenelg Tram - the most famous way of getting from Adelaide's Victoria Square to Glenelg in the Bay Tram
Bay Discovery Centre - tracks the history of early settlement
Magic Mountain Waterslide and Amusement Centre - for young and old
The Old Gum Tree - in MacFarlane Street with commemorative plaque
Maritime Museum & Restaurant - with replica of the HMS Buffalo
Glenelg Art Gallery - 15 Moseley Street, Glenelg
Holdfast Shores Marina - complex with shopping and restaurants
In the area
Brighton - a favourite beach playground
Coastal Trail
Australia - plan it, book it
