Roxby Downs Local History
Roxby Downs is a small town located in the northern part of South Australia, approximately 550km from Adelaide. The town is known for its mining operations and big underground copper, gold and uranium mines. However, the region of Roxby Downs has a rich history dating back to thousands of years ago.
Indigenous History
The Indigenous people of the region are the Kokatha and Arabunna peoples. They have lived in the area for tens of thousands of years and they have a deep spiritual connection to the land. The Kokatha people were mainly hunters and gatherers while the Arabunna people were traders and farmers. They would trade their goods with other tribes in the region.
European Exploration
The first European to explore the region was Edward John Eyre in 1839. He named the area "Mount Margaret" after his wife. The area was sparsely populated and had little value to the European settlers at that time.
Mining Boom
The history of Roxby Downs changed significantly in 1988 when the Olympic Dam mine was discovered. The mine is one of the largest copper and uranium mines in the world and has brought significant employment opportunities to the residents of the region. The town of Roxby Downs was established to support the growing number of miners and their families.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Roxby Downs has become a more modern town with a growing population and a range of amenities including schools, shopping centers, and medical facilities. The town also has a strong sporting community with several local teams competing in a variety of sports.
Tourism
Despite its history as a mining town, Roxby Downs has a lot to offer tourists. Visitors can take a tour of the Olympic Dam mine and learn about the history and operation of the mine. There are also several natural attractions in the region including the Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park and the Woomera Prohibited Area.
History of in Roxby Downs
The region of Roxby Downs has a complex and fascinating history. From the Indigenous people who have lived in the area for tens of thousands of years to the modern mining operations that have transformed the region, Roxby Downs has a rich and diverse past. Today, the town has a growing population and a strong community spirit. Whether you are a resident of the town or a visitor, there is something for everyone to discover in Roxby Downs.