Beachport adding value to roadwork detour

AS roadworks progress along the Southern Ports Highway, the Beachport community has transformed the detour into a vibrant and inspiring journey, unveiling the Scenic Range – Bale Trail that is already capturing the attention of travellers.

Volunteers from the Beachport Tourism Working Group, alongside Wattle Range Council staff and local schools, have collaborated to create a large-scale hay trail that brings life and colour to the detour route.

The Trail winds along the detour route from Millicent to Beachport via Hatherleigh on the Princes Highway.

Along the agricultural landscape of canola fields, green pastures, and grazing livestock, locals have transformed the paddocks turning them into open-air galleries filled with hay bale sculptures and colourful displays.

What began as a small group of passionate volunteers has now grown into a dedicated team of eager locals committed to brightening the journey for all who travel the detour.

Local landholders along the detour have offered their properties as gallery spaces for the pieces, while local schools Kangaroo Inn, Beachport Primary and Rendlesham have enthusiastically embraced the initiative, adding a playful and creative spirit to the trail.

The Trail is planned to remain in place throughout the entire duration of the roadworks, which are expected to be completed next year.

Wattle Range director of development services Emma Clay said the idea was to make the extra six to eight minute drive as engaging and enjoyable as possible

“We want the drive to be more than just a detour, but an experience that captures the community’s creativity and brings a smile to the road users,” Ms Clay said.

This initiative is one of several projects led by the Beachport Tourism Working Group, all aimed at showcasing the town’s character and encouraging visitors to stay, explore, and return.

From a beach art and sandcastle competition to upcoming installation of quirky photo boards around town and an art trail within the township, Beachport is proudly putting itself on the map, one creative idea at a time.

For maps and more information on the detour visit council’s website www.wattlerange.sa.gov.au