Walloway Railway Disaster Memorial

Located just 10km from Orroroo along the RM Williams Way, the Walloway Railway Disaster Memorial stands as a solemn reminder of one of the region’s most tragic railway incidents.

In the early hours of 16 November 1901, a northbound train carrying flour and copper ore collided head-on with a southbound train transporting 170 bullocks consigned by Sir Sidney Kidman. The impact was devastating. Both firemen lost their lives, one driver was seriously injured, and many cattle were killed as cargo was scattered across the site.

Today, the memorial marks the location of this tragedy, offering visitors a place for quiet reflection. It honours the lives lost and acknowledges the dangers faced by early railway workers who helped shape the development of regional Australia.

Set within the open landscape of the Southern Flinders, the site invites travellers to pause, reflect and connect with the district’s rich and sometimes sobering history.

Visitors can access the memorial by turning onto Chapman Road and following it to the site.