Port Neill is loved for its white sandy beaches with safe swimming and great fishing off the long jetty. The area was occupied by the Barngalaspeaking Aboriginal people before it was settled in 1873. It was first called Mottled Cove and became a thriving grain port. Before the jetty was built, wheat drays were driven into the sea until the horses could barely stand. Wheat bags were then loaded onto row boats and transferred to waiting ketches. Make sure you visit the lookout 2km north for panoramic views of Mottled Cove and the town.

FAST FACTS!

• The local Aboriginal people identified a number of fresh water soaks nearby which white settlers turned into wells
• Originally known as Carrow (reputedly a Barngala word for the local water soaks). In 1940 the town was re-named Port Neill
• Hincks Wilderness Protection Area, a few kilometres to the west, is the second-largest conservation park on Eyre Peninsula and protects endangered flora and fauna
• In 1880, the wheat-carrying Lady Kinnaird sank off Cape Burr near Port Neill. Luckily the crew escaped in life boats. The ships anchor was recovered 100 years later and is now a monument near the town jetty