Local Attractions
Discover Quorn's Historical Legacy
Quorn, established in 1878, was named after English town Quorndon in Leicestershire, has a rich agricultural and railway history. Head over the to the railway station for a journey into the past.
Embark On An Adventure Through Quorn’s History
Pichi Richi Railway
Quorn is the home of one of Australia’s best loved heritage railways, which has been operating out of Quorn station for nearly 50 years.
Originally completed in 1879, the railway through the Pichi Richi Pass was the first section of what became the Ghan Railway to Alice Springs. For almost 70 years the train hauled people and coal, troops, livestock, minerals and agricultural products between Port Augusta, Quorn and beyond, before the line fell into disuse in the 1950s.
The line was almost pulled up but was saved by the original group of volunteers who formed the society in July 1973 and began its steam-powered operations almost exactly 12 months later, in July 1974.
The Pichi Richi Railway was soon a key tourist destination in the Flinders Ranges, and now operates between Quorn and Port Augusta. This authentic heritage railway carries about 10,000 passengers between March and November each year, and is operated entirely by its dedicated team of volunteers. Passengers can enjoy much of what the region has to offer including magnificent scenery, local produce and the unique atmosphere of the town and surrounding area.
The Festival honors our historical roots and local pastoralists
Other Historical Attractions
Quorn Silo Light Show
Projecting every night from sunset, Quorn Silo Light Show also operates at Quorn's Railway Precinct. The silo begins to glow at sunset and springs to life under the stars. Viewers enjoy a free starlit audiovisual celebration of the Flinders Ranges, the Pichi Richi Railway, local stories and heritage. Curated by local woman Cindi Drennan, Creative Director of illuminart, it won gold in the 2022 Australian Street Art Awards.
Heritage Walk
The local heritage walk begins at Quorn railway station. This self-guided walk takes you around Quorn to view the many heritage buildings. The town of Quorn was established in 1878, when the Great Northern Railway reached the town. Farming had commenced in the area three years earlier.
Quorn became an important location early last century when it became the crossroads of Australia. Any north–south (on the Central Australian Railway to Oodnadatta) or east–west travellers, (when the Trans-Australian Railway was completed between Port Augusta and Kalgoorlie) would pass through the town. As a result, many fine buildings were built as Quorn expanded.
You can collect the Heritage Walk brochure at the Flinders Ranges Visitor Information Centre inside the station.
Quorn Pioneer Machinery Society
Situated at the Lion’s Park at the entrance of the town (when arrving from Port Augusta) the Quorn Pioneer Machinery Society has created a static display of farm machinery used in the early days. More recently added is an RV park, where weary travellers can rest for a day or two.
