Pink Lake: Home of the ‘The Lochiel Monster’

Pink Lake, located near the small town of Lochiel in South Australia, is a striking natural phenomenon that captures the imagination of visitors.

This shallow salt lake, also known as Lake Bumbunga, is famous for its vibrant pink hue, which can vary in intensity depending on weather conditions and salt concentration.

The science behind Pink Lake’s rosy hue

The lake’s distinctive colour is caused by the presence of algae and bacteria that thrive in its highly saline environment. These microorganisms produce beta-carotene, a red pigment that gives the lake its rosy tint. The pink shade is most vivid during dry periods when salt levels are high and algal blooms are abundant.

A popular tourist destination

Pink Lake has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing photographers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The contrast between the pink water and the surrounding arid landscape creates a surreal and picturesque scene. Visitors can enjoy walking along the lake’s edge or viewing it from nearby vantage points.

Adding to the lake’s allure is the local legend of the “Lochiel Monster.”

I first saw this playful addition to Pink Lake’s charm in the late 1960’s when as a young teenager, this rubber tyre silhouette of a sea monster was seen surfacing from the depths of the dry salt pan. The “Locheil Monster”, pays homage in our unique Aussie fashion to the famous Loch Ness Monster of Scotland. This creation still stops tourists to this day, providing a whimsical photo opportunity for tourists and sparking the imagination of visitors, especially children. While obviously not a real creature, the monster adds an element of fun and mystery to the already captivating landscape.

The Lochiel Monster: A whimsical addition

Pink Lake’s unique colour, combined with the playful Lochiel Monster installation, has helped put Lochiel on the map as a quirky and Instagram-worthy destination in South Australia. The lake serves as a reminder of the diverse and sometimes unexpected natural wonders that can be found in the Australian landscape.