Cooltong, South Australia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids CooltongSouth Australia |
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Established | 1 March 1951 (town) 16 March 2000 (locality) |
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Postcode(s) | 5341 | ||||||||||||||
LGA(s) | Renmark Paringa Council | ||||||||||||||
Region | Murray and Mallee | ||||||||||||||
County | Hamley | ||||||||||||||
State electorate(s) | Chaffey | ||||||||||||||
Federal Division(s) | Barker | ||||||||||||||
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Cooltong is a town and locality in the Australian state of South Australia.
Contents
What is Cooltong?
Cooltong is a small town and area (called a 'locality') in the Australian state of South Australia. It is located in the Murray and Mallee region. The town is part of the Renmark Paringa Council area.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name Cooltong has a special meaning. It comes from a local Aboriginal language. The word means "lizard place." This name was used in the area for many years before the town was officially created.
The name "Cooltong" first appeared in South Australian newspapers in 1898. It was mentioned in a report about unusual weather near Renmark. This weather event started in the Cooltong Hills.
How Cooltong Was Established
The town of Cooltong was officially surveyed in 1949. This means its boundaries and layout were mapped out. The town was officially established on 1 March 1951. The wider locality was established later, on 16 March 2000.
Land Use and Farming
After World War II, much of the land in Cooltong was given out. These were called "soldier settlement" blocks. This program helped soldiers who returned from the war. They were given land to start new lives, often as farmers.
The land in Cooltong is very fertile. It is irrigated, meaning water is supplied to the crops. Farmers here grow many different things. These include grapevines, citrus fruits, and other fruit trees.
Nature and Conservation
Cooltong is also home to a special natural area. The Cooltong Conservation Park is located southwest of the town. Conservation parks are important places. They help protect local wildlife and natural environments.