ATTRACTIONS SEMAPHORE SA

Built by the Port Adelaide Enfield and Charles Sturt Councils in 1992, and operated by the National Railway Museum volunteers, its specially designed steam locomotive Bill hauls carriages along the two kilometre coastal route from the Semaphore Jetty to Fort Glanville and the nearby Caravan Park – primarily in summer months (see website for details). A return journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and trains depart from Semaphore Jetty station approx. each hour.  This time may be reduced depending on demand. The service does not operate during days of total fire bans or when the temperature is forecast 35 degrees and over. 

Fort Glanville is one of the most complete examples of a 19th Century coastal artillery fort in Australia. Overlooking Semaphore Beach, the fort was built in 1880 to defend Adelaide and the important shipping area of Port Adelaide. Armed with military personnel, cannons, guns, a guard room, barracks, gunners mess, officers quarters and stores, Fort Glanville was ready should an invasion occur. Luckily, the invasion never came. Come to one of Fort Glanville's monthly open days and witness a fantastic live re-enactment of military dress, drills and cannon firing by members of the Fort Glanville Historical Association. Open days are held on the third Sunday of each month from 1pm - 5pm from September to May when 1800s military life is recreated. The fort is open for group visits (minimum 25 persons) by arrangement.