the Kingston SE lifestyle

history

Originally the lands of the Meintangk and Moandik peoples, European settlement of the district began in the 1840s. The town was founded in the 1850s with the intent of creating a major shipping port to service the transport needs of the farms and industries in the region. That dream faded but left behind a handful of lovely historic buildings and many fascinating stories.

living local

These days Kingston SE has what would be expected in a town this size - a selection of shops, parks, churches, a library and a wide variety of interest groups. It is a family-friendly town with plenty to occupy the grandkids and their parents when they come visiting.

Medical needs are serviced by a hospital and medical centre, along with visiting professionals including dentists, nutritionists, podiatrists and optometrists. Physiotherapy and remedial massage are both available locally.

The town and businesses are always working towards better accessibility, and a number of services are available for those in need of additional in-home support. Plentiful parking, wide streets, bike tracks and gopher-friendly footpaths make getting around easy.

For those who like to keep fit, the town has a host of sporting facilities including golf, sailing, tennis, table-tennis, karate and lawn bowls. The gym caters to all residents and fitness levels, and there are other fitness activities including yoga and walking groups. There are currently no waiting lists for local sporting clubs and most also offer coaching to new players just starting out.

In recent years a growing interest in public art has seen a number of works pop up around town. For the artists and creators, there are semi-regular local exhibitions, market days and spaces to display and sell work.

There are many clubs and activities to get involved with and they all welcome new members. Once you get to know people, you can expect to become fully immersed in local life and community activities. One of the best aspects is the generosity displayed by individuals, clubs and businesses. The volunteering of their time, energy and resources is their love letter to the community they have chosen to call home and it’s very special.

If you can't find a club to suit, chances are you will find some like-minded individuals ready to join you in something new. The challenge for many new retirees isn't in finding something to do, its finding enough hours in the day to do it all!

out and about

Kingston is the home of the Big Lobster (fondly known as Larry) and counts the historic Cape Jaffa Lighthouse among its attractions. Very lucky (and quiet) nature lovers may enjoy a walk in one of the many nearby conservation parks where mallee fowl and other interesting wildlife abound.

There’s nothing nicer than a stroll along the beach or a dip in the ocean at the end of a hot summer’s day. 4WDs will be able to access the beach most of the year at a number of locations and in the warmer months most vehicles can easily access the beach at Long Beach or Johnson Avenue. Surf beaches are within a half hour's drive and some spectacular beach fishing spots are also close by. If being out on the water appeals, your boat can be launched off the beach, or from Cape Jaffa just up the road.

Kingston SE is within easy reach of fabulous wineries, the outstanding beauty of the Granites and Coorong, interesting tourist sites and larger towns should you need to go further afield.