Waterloo
SA 5413 • South Australia
About Waterloo
Waterloo is a small rural locality in South Australia's Mid North region, situated in a valley at the head of the Light River, approximately 121 kilometres north-east of Adelaide. The township lies just off the Barrier Highway between Manoora and Black Springs, in an agricultural district that has historically served surrounding farming communities. With a 2021 Census population of 82 residents spread across approximately 55 square kilometres, Waterloo is a sparsely settled locality with deep pastoral roots. The area was surveyed and established in 1865 in the Hundred of Waterloo, County of Light, and takes its name from the famous Napoleonic battle.
Although the township of Waterloo never grew into a major centre, it developed as a service hub for surrounding rural properties, historically providing a school, churches, and basic shopping for the district. Today the locality retains its quiet agricultural character, surrounded by productive farmland typical of the Mid North. The nearest significant towns are Kapunda to the south-west and Burra to the north-east, each offering a broader range of services. Waterloo appeals to those seeking an authentic, peaceful rural lifestyle in one of South Australia's most historically rich farming regions.
Waterloo falls under postcode 5413 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Frome electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Limited regional coach services — Adelaide (via Clare/Kapunda) Approx. 2 hr – 2 hr 30 min to Adelaide
Commute to Adelaide CBD
🛣️ Via Barrier Highway (A20) south-west towards Kapunda and the Sturt Highway. Very limited public transport; a private vehicle is essential.
Waterloo has virtually no local services and all daily errands require driving to nearby towns such as Kapunda or Burra.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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7 Saddle Road