Have Your Say: Drover’s Encounter

Light Regional Council is developing plans for a major new tourism precinct in Kapunda and is inviting the community to help shape it.

Known as Drover’s Encounter, the proposed development would transform 96–104 Main Street and surrounding land into a significant visitor destination. Located directly opposite Council’s principal office and linked to the Historic Copper Mine site, the 9.8-hectare area includes both township and conservation zones. Council acquired this land between 2020 and 2022 at a cost of $1.1 million as part of its strategic vision for the region.

Drover’s Encounter is designed to tell the stories of regional South Australia in a new and engaging way—through immersive, interactive experiences for locals and visitors alike. The concept includes:

Experience Centre: A modern, hands-on visitor hub showcasing stories of Sir Sidney Kidman, Traditional Owners, pioneering families, and rural life across generations.
The Stockman’s Arena: A live performance space celebrating the relationship between people, animals, and the land.
Historic Copper Mine Activation: Interactive storytelling and heritage displays at Australia’s first commercially successful mine.
Adventure Playground: A nature-based play area connecting children with the region’s environment and culture.
Signature Restaurant: A farm-to-plate dining experience focused on native and local produce.
Cattle King Festival: A new flagship event honouring the region’s pastoral identity through food, music and entertainment.

The precinct is not yet confirmed. It depends on investment from private partners and the identification of suitable operators. Council has developed a preliminary business model and commercial strategy to attract these partners, supported by a $300,000 commitment toward planning, demand studies and investor engagement.

Construction could begin in late 2025, with potential operations from 2026–27. These timelines are dependent on investment outcomes and regulatory processes.

Community input now open

Before development progresses further, Light Regional Council is inviting the community to provide input on the stories, features and priorities that should shape the precinct. This is your opportunity to help ensure the experience reflects what makes Kapunda and the Light region unique.

Questions to consider include:

Which local stories, icons, or events should be featured?
How should the precinct reflect the culture and character of the area?
What would make this an engaging place for locals and visitors?

Community feedback will help guide interpretive content, visitor experience design and cultural storytelling. Council encourages responses from residents, Traditional Owners, local historians, educators, artists, and businesses.