Merna Mora
and the surrounding area is steeped in history and has many artifacts
and evidence of the early days of settlement. Many of these
attractions are restricted to conducted or tag along tours and are not
located on public access roads.
Old
stone kilns These
kilns were built to help with the construction of the original Ghan Railway
line. Limestone bearing deposits were burnt in these kilns to produce
lime to aid in the construction of bridges and culverts. Cement was not
available and the Chinese were adept in procuring lime from the local
dolomite deposits.
Old
Merna Mora homestead
The original
Fels' Merna Mora homestead was situated near the Ghan Railway Line about
6 kms from the existing homestead. Built entirely of local stone it was
once home to a family of 15. It would have been constructed in the early
1900's. The existing homestead was built in 1951.
Salt
lake
The dry
patina of Lake Torrens. The lake is the longest in the southern hemisphere.
Its surface varies from a hard white salt encrusted layer to a treacherous
black bottomless mud. It has deceived many and huge mirages give the impression
of a water filled expanse. Mt Deception can be seen in the background.
Original
Ghan Train Line
These are remnants of the Mern Merna Railway Siding. Up to seven families at the settlement at any one time and part of the building comprised the Mern Merna School. Add Hookina where a township with church, shops and school existed. Apart from a few ruins the cemetery is the only testament to its existence.
Wurlie
This is
the remains of a shepherd's hut located in sandhill country near the shores
of Lake Torrens. Although built on the principles of the Aboriginal wurlie
the chopped ends of the wood show the influence of white man.
Fossils
There are
many exposed beds showing various fossils from the Archeoscyathas
to various forms of marine life and signs of a much more fertile landscape
than what is here today.
Blacks
Gap
This area forms part of the Heysen Trail. Bushwalkers can walk from here through Bridle Gap into Wilpena Pound (6 – 7 hour hike).
The Mawson Bike trail traverses the Moralana Scenic Drive. Merna Mora is a convenient stopover on the two day ride from Hawker to Rawnsley and Wilpena.
