Most people are wrong about Willaston, thinking it is just another suburb. People reckon the history stops at the Gawler boundary. But the truth is, Willaston has its own character. It used to be a separate town with its own hotels and pride. Going over the river is entering a distinct area of our heritage.
If you are buying looking for a bargain, Willaston is often a smart pick. One finds the same old houses as Gawler proper, often on larger blocks, but sometimes at a discount. Relaxed, yet you are only a short stroll from Murray Street. Ideally located.
The Identity of Willaston
It started as a gateway for traffic heading to the mines. As a result, it has a strong commercial history. Pubs sprang up to host travelers. The pub is a example of this era, still serving the community today.
The atmosphere is slightly more country than Gawler Central. Big streets, and there is a sense of space. There are mix of old shacks and bungalows. Eclectic mix gives Willaston a down to earth feel. It is a real neighborhood where people chat.
Lately have seen a lift in Willaston. Couples are moving in, updating the old cottages. Shops are popping up. Becoming a trendy spot because the location to the expressway is so good for commuters.
Crossing the River
The bridge is more than just a crossing; it is a historic site. Linking Gawler to Willaston over the river, it has seen floods and rebuilds over the decades. Standing on the bridge gives you a great view of the river banks.
Years ago, this was the funnel for all traffic going north. Carts would thunder across here. Nowadays, it handles vehicles, but the bridge still reminds us of its significance. Locals enjoy for photos, especially when the river is flowing.
Close by, you can find walking trails that dip down to the water. It creates a nice path for residents to stroll to shops. Access provided by the bridge is what makes Willaston feel so part of to Gawler, despite being on the other side.
Local History in Stone
Graveyards are often the best museums of a town. The Willaston General Cemetery is no exception. Here lie many of the early settlers who built Gawler. Strolling through reveals names you see on buildings all over town.
The Council has released an app for the cemetery. It lets you to find specific graves or learn about the people buried there. Amazing feature for researchers. Rather than getting lost, you can go straight to the McKinlay monument.
The cemetery itself is quiet. Big gum trees provide shade. A location for thinking. Even if you don't know anyone buried there, reading the epitaphs gives you a sense of the life of early colonial life, with many young children and accidents recorded.
Bricks and Mortar
It was famous for its industry. The earth here was perfect for making bricks. The materials you see in local homes likely came from Willaston. The brickworks employed workers and drove the economy.
Evidence remain in the suburb. Holes have sometimes been changed to parks or building sites. Knowing this explains why the terrain looks the way it does in some parts. Blue collar roots, not just a housing estate.
Lime kilns was another industry. The industry would have been a constant backdrop in the 1800s. Today, Willaston is quiet, but knowing its gritty past adds depth to the suburb. Formerly it was a quiet place; it was a hive of activity.
Heading North
Willaston sits on the north side of Gawler. It serves as the launch pad to the wine region. Short drive from Tanunda. Residing here means you can go for cellar door visits on a spur of the moment.
The Sturt Highway bypasses the center now, but the connection is still easy. People heading to the country, Willaston is the last stop. It keeps that edge of town feel because to the north is fields.
Ultimately, Willaston offers a great spot. handy to shops but close to rural. Buying here, it is often undervalued. Keep an eye on it as it continues to improve.
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