Cummins South Australia
 

events

Cummins and the surrounding district host a multitude of events throughout the year. If you would like to submit an event, please click here.

Below is an up-to-date guide of upcoming events:

Attractions, tours & itineraries

Our home is a friendly country town centrally located within the Seafood Frontier on the Lower Eyre Peninsula, and amidst a booming agriculture industry. Cummins is an ideal meeting point between land and sea; the perfect place to take a wander down the main street and explore, meet the locals and replenish. For more details on the multitude of local services for visitors, see the business directory.

Attractions & tours

  • Cummins Railway Triangle Park

    The Cummins Railway Triangle Park is a vibrant, family-friendly meeting spot which includes electric BBQs, covered picnic areas, and a playground. Also located in the park are the popular mosaic art toilets – which have been awarded with an International Toilet Tourism Award in 2018 – adding a colourful experience to a visit there.

    The heritage of the agricultural town is also respected with a Wheat Lumper statue and information panels that tell the story of grain handling in the district.

    The park is located near the main shopping precinct on Bruce Terrace, between Meikle Street and Umlauf Street.

  • Art & History

    Art abounds in Cummins, with work showcased throughout town, on stobie poles, walls, mosaics and statues. One statue in particular showcases both the region’s historic agricultural past and artistry: the Wheat Lumper, created by Sydney-based international artists Gillie and Marc, which is located in the Railway Triangle Park.

    Click here to discover more about wheat bag lumping.

  • Garden of Remembrance

    Take a moment to remember the sacrifices of our service men and women at the Garden of Remembrance, a memorial commemorating those who served in war. It includes a statue of a Kokoda veteran nicknamed “Digger”. The figure was carved from Italian Carrara Marble, and hoisted onto a polished black Adelaide granite plinth.

    This is located off Tumby Bay Road, between Railway Terrace and Durdin Street.

  • A railway through town

    Cutting through the centre of Cummins, the dual railway track is no longer a functioning railway. Since May 2019 the freight trains carrying grain from silos to the port in Pt Lincoln have stopped. Grain is now transported via road trains all year round.

  • Family friendly

    Without a doubt, those with kids have plenty to keep them busy in Cummins. Aside from the ability to explore the wide open spaces, or try their skill at over ten different sports, there is also our newly constructed Skate Park. Brought to life by a volunteer committee consisting of passionate and proactive locals, it is located at the Recreational Grounds, alongside the town oval. It was completed in July 2018.

    The Cummins Nature Playground is another amazing volunteer committee project that offers family enjoyment.  Located on the southern side of the Railway Triangle Park, it provides the ultimate place for kids to naturally explore and play whilst in a secure environment.

  • Koppio Smithy Museum

    The Koppio Smithy Museum showcases unique buildings and collections of the by-gone era, along with Indigenous artefacts and a sobering display of the 2005 Black Tuesday bushfire. A highlight is the original blacksmith shop and two-bedroom cottage from 1890. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, public holidays and school holidays from 10am to 5pm.

    Contact: 08 8684 4243 or see www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/koppio-smithy-museum/ for more details.

    Located 28km east of Cummins on Koppio Road.

  • Bellwood Museum

    A short drive north to Yeelanna brings you to the Bellwood Museum, which captures the history of the area’s people and industry through a collection of local farming, household and family artefacts.

    Open by appointment. Contact: Dianne Modra 0487 767 026

    Located in Yeelanna, 14km north of Cummins.

  • Nearby beaches & the Seafood Frontier

    The Cummins district is centrally located between the Spencer Gulf and Great Australian Bight coastlines. A short drive in most directions and visitors will be sinking their toes in the sand of any number of pristine beaches, or casting a line for some magnificent fishing, or even catching the sights at the many breathtaking surf spots.

    Plan your day trip from Cummins, depending on the wind direction: head east to the seaside town of Tumby Bay; south to sample oysters in Coffin Bay or snorkel around Farm Beach; west to the hidden gem of Point Drummond; or scoot over to Elliston and see its Great Ocean Drive.

  • Cummins Walking Tracks

    Starting at the Railway Triangle Park, there are four walking tracks that can be followed around Cummins.

    All four tracks start and finish at the Cummins Railway Triangle Park. There is an information board at the Park which outlines the four tracks – a 7.5km red track, a 5km blue track, a 3.5km green track and a 3km yellow track which includes a loop around the Showgrounds where there has also been exercise equipment installed.

    Click here to download the walking tracks map.

  • Cummins Skate Park

    Kick, push, coast to the Cummins Recreation Centre and you will find this local treasure.

    Brought to life by a local volunteer committee in 2018, this facility allows youth of all ages to get outside and develop their skills. Skaters and riders can be seen showing off their talent and tricks on any given day.

  • Mosaic Art Trail

    Created by the Cummins Mosaic Group, the art can be seen in many places around Cummins. Panels display scenes of life in our town as well as its railway history.

    A brochure will be available after an update in 2024. Download a brochure and follow the trail here.

Suggested itineraries

With so many things to do around the region, where do you start? Below are some possible routes you could take to explore the local sights. Remember to always drive to the conditions of the road: with both sealed and unsealed roads ever changing we recommend you take caution. Some of these routes go to areas where mobile phone service can be intermittent.

From Land to Sea Loop (full day)

Start your day early with breakfast in Cummins before setting off towards Coulta and soak up the farm life and geology changes along the way. This will give you the full perspective when you reach the top of magnificent Mount Greenly with a full 360˚ view. Refresh post hike at Farm Beach then head over to Dutton Bay Woolshed before immersing in the quirkiness of the Minniribbie Free Range Berkshire Pig Farm and its antique store at Wangary. A short drive into Coffin Bay could take you slightly longer if you come across the local emus and kangaroos meandering through the streets. Now it’s time to tuck into fresh, local seafood at one of several eateries in Coffin Bay. Head off before the sun sets and visit the unique shoe tree located just north of Wanilla. Cummins is calling your name for a well earned, good night’s rest.

  1. Cummins breakfast
  2. Hike Mt Greenly (1.5 hour intermediate hike)
  3. Refresh at Farm Beach
  4. Dutton Bay Woolshed
  5. Free Range Pig Farm and Antiques
  6. Coffin Bay – Seafood Capital and wildlife at its best
  7. The shoe tree
 
 

Heritage & Art Trail (full day)

Start your day by grabbing a coffee and some to-go lunches and go check out the mosaic art at the Railway Triangle Park, before heading out of town towards Tumby Bay. Turn off at Yallunda Flat and take the scenic drive to the Koppio Smithy Museum and Rose Farm. Here you will learn about the ways of yesteryear and the devastation caused by the bushfire in January 2005. Now, are you ready for some inspiring art? Make your way to our beach-front neighbour; Tumby Bay, and check out the silo art on the way into town. Then wander the street art by amazing Australian and international artists, including Cummins artist, James Pedler. Take a dip to refresh or cast your eyes over the mosaics along the new foreshore walking track. As you head back through the picturesque Tumby hills you will be looking forward to the chefs at the Cummins Hotel cooking you tea for the night.

  1. Grab some morning tea to enjoy with Dulcie at the Railway Triangle Park
  2. Koppio Museum and Rose Farm via Yallunda Flat
  3. Tumby Bay for an injection of art and a refreshing dip
  4. Take in the beautiful Tumby hills
 
 

TURF & SURF TRAIL (Full day)

Make sure you have your bathers and a camera packed as you head west, out of Cummins through the small communities of Warrow, Kapinnie and Mount Hope on the way to the picturesque Point Drummond, where you can swim and take in the beautiful scenery of this secluded spot. Take time to admire the salt lakes and the unique vistas of salts pans under big skies with spectacular Marble Range in the distance. After being swept away with the natural beauty of out west, it’ll be time to swing on down to Port Lincoln to indulge in a Seafood Capital style dinner before returning back to Cummins for a good night’s sleep.

  1. Start your day in Cummins
  2. Salt Lakes
  3. Point Drummond
  4. Port Lincoln
 
 

Up the Line (half day)

After a relaxing night at your accommodation in Cummins, start off your day with a delicious locally made breakfast and get supplies for a filling packed lunch, before setting your course north along the Tod Highway. Travel to Yeelanna and pop in to Bellwood Museum (bookings essential) and discover the heritage of life during the bustling days of the town. Enjoy the view of agricultural life as you continue on to Karkoo and Tooligie and then through to Lock, where you will find more local history as you explore the Lock & District Heritage Museum, housed at the former town’s police station. Fancy going on ahead? Head to “Nowhere Else” and be like many who get a photo with the region’s iconic road sign to “Nowhere Else”.

  1. Start your day in Cummins
  2. Bellwood Museum in Yeelanna
  3. Check out the small town of Karkoo
  4. Lock up your trip at Lock & District Heritage Museum
 
 

Join the Twitchers Trail (half day)

Take a trip to “Cockaleechie Kid” country. As you meander through rich farming country, be sure to read the history of the local horse dip before walking out on the tennis courts where John Fitzgerald learned his trade. Continue on through the Cockaleechie hills to Stokes, a picturesque tiny church that was the social hub for pioneering families. Carry on to Ungarra and if you’re in luck the Community Cafe will be open (check their Facebook page for opening times which vary with the agricultural seasons). Once refreshed then you’ll be ready to start the Twitchers Trail – a community mosaic art project featuring local birdlife and flora.

  1. Find the Cockaleechie Kid’s beginnings
  2. Stokes church
  3. Ungarra for Lunch
  4. Follow the Twitchers Trail
 
 

Visitor Information Stand

For more information, call into the Five Loaves Bakery when you’re visiting to grab some brochures or a map from the visitor information stand; or before your visit, see our Facebook ,Instagram or Twitter pages for holiday inspiration.

Custom tours

If you’d like a local to plan a tour for you, contact Australian Coastal Safari’s. The Port Lincoln based company regularly tours to the Cummins area – and you know you are in good hands given that the company is owned and operated by people who have a strong local connection to Cummins and districts.

christmas in cummins

Cummins Christmas Wonderland has been exciting visitors and locals alike since 2009 with its annually changing magical displays and interactive activities. Created from ceiling to floor by volunteers, the Wonderland fabulously captures the Christmas spirit.

Running from December 1-28 each year, it is open to all ages, every day from 10am to 5pm, and is even open on Christmas Day from 2pm to 5pm.

Father Christmas makes a daily appearance once school finishes for the year: in 2023 from 16 – 24 December. Visits are in the morning from 10am-12pm and the afternoon 2 – 4pm.  His final visit is on Christmas Eve.

Located in the Cummins Institute, on 46 Railway Terrace, it is an air-conditioned environment that is pram and wheelchair friendly. Entrance is a gold coin donation. Toilets are located onsite, and also at the nearby Railway Triangle Park.

Car parking is available in front of and at the back of the Institute. December is an exceptionally busy time of the year with abundant harvest related traffic.

Find Cummins Christmas Wonderland on Facebook. If you would like to arrange a booking, please contact Grace Coombs on 0408 832 127.

farm to table

Ever wondered where the food on your table comes from? Farm to table experiences are currently being developed to show just that, so watch this space for more news on this new area of tourism! In the meantime, check out some of our amazing local produce.

  • Korinya Farm Gate

    This little piece of farm-life, located not far from Cummins, offers visitors an opportunity to explore where wholesome food comes from. With a local and holistic approach, this family farm is looking to create a memorable experience for all those that visit, an incredible chance to feed the animals, milk the cows, or collect home grown produce. Korinya Farm Gate delivers a unique farm-to-table experience which includes sale of holistic pasture-raised meat, homesteading workshops, as well as farm stay accommodation.

    Visit their website here.

  • Cummins Meat Store

    The Cummins Meat Store is “pleased to meet you with meat to please you”, and offers a wide selection which includes beef, lamb, fish and pork, as well as ready-to-cook gourmet meals made using local ingredients. Be sure to try their award winning sausages as judged in the South Australian local butcher competition.

    Click here to visit their Facebook page.

  • Cummins Mill

    One of the oldest operating mills in the state, making the most of the local grain industry, the Cummins Mill processes wheat and rye to deliver high-quality flour and stockfeed products, which can be found across the region. Products made with their flour can also be tasted at Five Loaves Bakery.

    Located diagonally across from the silos at 42 Bruce Terrace.

    Visit their website here.

  • Regional food bowl

    A wide range of locally farmed goods is produced right here in our region. From free-range eggs to homemade jams, chutneys, nuts, olive oils and more; each product shows just how rich and diverse our land is. These delicious produce can be found at local farmers markets, such as the Cummins Markets, and in selected stores around the Eyre Peninsula.

  • Eyre Peninsula Culinary Adventure Guide

    Want to know more about our local cuisine? Check out the Eyre Peninsula Culinary Guide to taste the best of our region: www.eyrepeninsula.com/experiences/culinary

    You can also check out and download the Cummins Area School Year 10 Class “Paddock to Plate” project eBooks:

    Download the 2020 edition here.

    Download the 2021 edition here.

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options and you too will realise, as many of our visitors have, that “Cummins is a great place to base yourself to explore the Eyre Peninsula!”

Cummins Caravan Park

Established in the year 2000 by a group of enthusiastic local volunteers, this RV-friendly Park is another example of the great community spirit for which Cummins is known. An easy walk down the street to the local shopping area will take you past the local Railway Triangle Park and playground.

Located at the southern end of the township it hosts two, six-berth, self-contained cabins (linen included); twelve level, grassed powered sites; and four non-powered sites. The park also easily accommodates recreational vehicles.

The added bonus to the very affordable rates is the free use of laundry facilities, free BBQ (located under a shelter) and leafy surrounds.

Bookings are made online at www.lowereyrepeninsula.sa.gov.au/cummins  or Contact 0461 422 896

 

 
 

Kiana Park

Nestled amongst a working sheep and cropping farm, this small, family-owned caravan park is described as a tranquil oasis between the limestone and local tea tree bush. Located approximately 49km northwest of Cummins, it features large grassed sites, both powered and unpowered; and a small, yet very clean, shower and toilet block. Operating on a honesty pay system, the friendly hosts Mardi & Stephen have also included a communal fire pit area to the park. Kiana Park is the place to truly reset yourself away from the daily grind of both work and travel.

Click here to visit their Facebook page.

Contact: 0427 876 049

Cummins Hotel

Boasting superior motel and traditional country hotel style accommodation, the Cummins Hotel is where options adapt to your needs. The original hotel-style rooms are clean, comfortable and basic, which means you are ensured a sound night’s rest without the extravagance; while the modern and superior motel-style rooms, where country matches metropolitan standards, are designed to bring maximum comfort and relaxation. Recently built, the Superior Ensuite rooms feature floor to ceiling tiling, plush white linen and complimentary toiletries. Additionally, there is a purpose-built disabled friendly room that provides quality, all-access facilities, whilst maintaining contemporary sophistication.

Each room is fitted with a mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, and a toaster. Moreover, these rooms are fully equipped for room service and the entire menu is available on request at no additional charge.

A public laundromat is also located here.

Click here to visit their Facebook page.

Contact: (08) 8676 2002

Korinya Farm Gate

Located on an idyllic farm about 10km west of Cummins, you’ll be able to soon experience your own slice of country living at Korinya Farm Gate. This family farm aims to offer several budget-friendly accommodation options, including the Rustic Farmhouse, perfect for a no-frills getaway with the family; and more basic hostel-like rooms in the refurbished Shearing Quarters.

If you are looking for a little bit more than a place to rest your head, the lovely hosts will be excited to show you around their working family farm, and will definitely not say “no” to an extra set of hands to feed their farmyard animals and collect some eggs for breakfast.

If you want to get back to basics and reconnect with the land, this might just be the perfect place to put up your feet and relax.

Click here to visit their website.

Contact: Mary-anne 0428 514 312

Local Eats

The region’s produce is amongst some of the world’s best, so it is no surprise to find high quality food around here. Local food and dining options include the Cummins Hotel, Five Loaves Bakery, and the Cummins Takeaway & Deli, each offering different but equally tasty choices.

Five Loaves Bakery

From the moment you walk in, the lovely smell of freshly baked goods will entice you to stay. Alongside the barista-made coffee, you will find a vast variety of menu options, both sweet and savoury; from traditional pies and rolls, to sensational cakes, cookies, breads, and the crowd favourite – the vanilla slice. Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm.

Cummins Hotel

Offering hearty meals and gourmet dining with some country charm, the menu has something for everyone, even the kids, with options from the land and sea, including the deliciously local Coffin Bay oysters. Indulge yourself with the weekly specials and schnitzel Wednesdays, or have a pint at the bar and meet the locals. Open 7 days a week from 10am to 11pm.

Cummins Takeaway & Deli

Whether you visit in the morning and grab a coffee, or come for a quick lunch or dinner, the scent of tasty food and the abundance of takeaway or dine-in options is delightful, and you will find delicious pies, rolls, salads, yiros and lots more, including a pizza menu on weekends; and Cummins best kept secret – the most addictive chips in town. Open 7 days a week from 7am to 8:30pm.