Auburn
SA 5451 • South Australia
About Auburn
Auburn is a small historic town located at the southern edge of the Clare Valley in the Mid North region of South Australia, approximately 111 kilometres north of Adelaide and 25 kilometres south of Clare. It was established in 1849 and lies in the northern Mount Lofty Ranges, bisected by the Wakefield River as it flows towards Port Wakefield. The town had a population of 668 at the 2021 census and sits within the District Council of Clare and Gilbert Valleys. Its name is derived from a line in Oliver Goldsmith's poem "The Deserted Village".
Auburn is celebrated as the birthplace of Australian poet C.J. Dennis, author of the beloved "Songs of a Sentimental Bloke", lending the town a distinctive literary and heritage character. The town's historic streetscape, anchored by the Rising Sun Inn built in 1850, attracts heritage tourists and weekend visitors from Adelaide. Auburn is set among the rolling hills and vineyards of the Clare Valley wine region, making it popular with wine tourists exploring the famous Riesling Trail walking and cycling track. It is a peaceful rural community valued for its authentic heritage atmosphere and proximity to the Clare Valley's renowned cellar doors.
Auburn falls under postcode 5451 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Frome electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Yorke Peninsula Coaches / regional services — Clare and Adelaide (Central Bus Station) ~2 hr to Adelaide
Commute to Adelaide CBD
🛣️ The former Spalding railway line closed in the 1980s. Auburn is accessed primarily by car via Main North Road (A32). Most residents drive to Clare (25 km) for regular services and to Adelaide for major shopping.
Auburn's compact township is walkable within the town centre, with a general store, hotel and post office accessible on foot. However, access to broader services requires a car, and travel to Adelaide or Clare is essential for healthcare, major shopping and schooling.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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St Vincent Street