Matthew Flinders Red Cliff Lookout — Attraction in Port Augusta West

Matthew Flinders was the first European explorer to circumnavigate the Australian continent mapping the coastline. This point is significant as the early settlers were looking for an inland sea. One can imagine their excitement travelling north up Spencer’s gulf that that they are about to discover the inland sea. As the gulf narrows to a point they would have climbed these cliffs to view the inland sea. How disappointing to see the dry red soil and the gulf wither away to a dry creek. Apart from the bridge and train line the view hasn’t changed...

Standing on Red Cliff Lookout with the setting sun at my back I reflected on the voyage of Matthew Flinders, circumnavigating Australia 200 years before. Looking down on the quiet waters at the 'Top of the Gulf' I wondered what Flinders would think if he re-visited now. Certainly he would be astounded at the spectacular sight of the mighty Ghan train thundering across my line of vision on its way to Darwin. A sight to be remembered. Do not miss the experience of Red...

Simple lookout where early explorer Matthews Flinders once stood, at the very top of Spencer Gulf, looking over to the Flinders Ranges. Apparently he was unimpressed, and is credited with saying "....there is no need for any person to cone here again." How wrong could he be!! The Lookout is adjacent to the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden at North Augusta. The collection of arid-loving plants and their presentation is very good, as...