In 1852 the port of Hong Kong buzzed with dramatic rumours of Australia, a sunlit land where the hills shone with gold and where lumps of this precious metal were being picked up in the street. Thousands of young Chinese left their shops, farms, rice-fields and families to try their fortune.

This Chinese Well in Coorong National Park, South Australia, is a historical site that offers a glimpse into the region’s multicultural past. Located within the park’s stunning coastal landscape, it stands as a testament to the contributions of Chinese immigrants to Australia’s development in the 19th century. Constructed in the 1850s, the Chinese Well was built by Chinese laborers who were traveling from South Australia to the goldfields of Victoria.

After three months at sea, the Chinese landed Port Adelaide and later at Victor Harbour and Robe to begin a journey that took five or six weeks to complete. They arrived in South Australia to avoid the 10 pound poll tax imposed each Chines immigrant by the Victorian Government in 1955.

These workers, seeking fortune in the gold rush, needed reliable water sources along their arduous journey. The well provided a crucial supply of fresh water in an otherwise arid environment.

The well’s construction showcases traditional Chinese engineering techniques, with its circular stone lining and unique design. It’s believed that the Chinese workers used their expertise in water management, honed over centuries in their homeland, to locate and build this vital water source.

Today, the Chinese Well serves as an important cultural heritage site within Coorong National Park. It offers visitors a tangible connection to the often-overlooked contributions of Chinese immigrants to Australia’s early development. The well’s presence in this protected natural area also highlights the intersection of human history with the diverse ecosystems of the Coorong region.

While the well is no longer in use, its preservation allows modern visitors to appreciate both the ingenuity of its builders and the challenges faced by early settlers and travelers in this remote part of South Australia.

Getting there:
The Chinese Well was about a 90 minute drive along the Princes Highway from Adelaide via the Coorong Scenic Route through the national park. The well is situated near Salt Creek, and there are signs to guide you to the site. Access to the well is suitable for 2WD vehicles however it’s advisable to use 4WD vehicles on some of the other park tracks and road conditions may vary with weather conditions.

Local attractions:
While in the Coorong National Park, there are several other attractions to explore:

  • Bird watching: The park is renowned for its diverse birdlife, including migratory waders.
  • Canoeing and kayaking: Explore the park’s extensive waterways.
  • 4WD tours: Discover remote areas of the park and its stunning coastal scenery.
    Camp Coorong: Learn about Indigenous culture and history.
  • Fishing: Try your luck in the park’s lagoons and estuaries.
  • Jack Point Pelican Observatory: Observe the local pelican population