If you are heading North along The Outback way, on route to Oodnadatta or Birsdville, a small side trip worth the stop is a little ghost town that goes by the name of Farina. Farina is located approximately 650km North of Adelaide and 55km South of Marree.
Originally called The Government Gums, Farina was settled in 1878, by two city slickers, who had high hopes of a budding township and success at wheat farming. Unfortunately, the big dream was short lived, as the rainfall in Farina wasn’t there to support the crops.
Farina grew to reach a peak population of approximately 600 in the late 1800’s, with two hotels, a school, a post office, bank, a underground bakery and several stores, today nothing but stone ruins, and the elevated railway tank remain.
In 2008 Farina Restoration Group was formed. Volunteer efforts have been made to restore the town, including repair of the underground bakery and the addition of informational signs.
There is plenty to see and do here even if you aren’t all that much into history, the underground bakery to start with is a big draw card. Base yourself at the campground that is caravan, camper trailer and dog friendly and enjoy exploring Farina, South Australia.
