Purnong, South Australia facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Purnong South Australia
Purnong ferry
Purnong Location in South Australia
Postcode(s)	5238
Location	115 km (71 mi) E of Adelaide 32 km (20 mi) NE of Mannum
LGA(s)	Mid Murray Council
State electorate(s)	Chaffey
Federal Division(s)	Barker
Localities around Purnong: Walker Flat Forster Nildottie Caurnamont Purnong Claypans Bowhill

Purnong or Purnong Landing is a small place in South Australia. It's well-known for its special ferry that crosses the Murray River. This town sits high up on cliffs, looking down at the river.

Discover Purnong: A River Town

Purnong is located on the eastern side of the Murray River. It's about 32 kilometers (20 miles) by road from the town of Mannum if you travel on the west side of the river. If you're on the east side, it's about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Mannum.

The Purnong Ferry

One of the most important things about Purnong is its cable ferry. This ferry helps cars and people cross the Murray River. It's a very short crossing, actually the shortest ferry trip in all of South Australia! Even though the crossing is quick, there are some beautiful lagoons right next to the river.

Purnong's Past: How It Began

The town of Purnong was officially mapped out in 1911. Its name comes from an Aboriginal word. This word means "at the wide place", which probably describes how the river looks here. For many years, Purnong also had its own school. The Purnong Primary School taught local children until it closed down in December 1983.