It’s called the “riskiest paint job in South Australia”. The obelisk at Robe is a significant historical landmark along the limestone coast of South Australia. Perched on crumbling cliffs at Cape Dombey, the Obelisk at Robe was erected in 1855 after 30 ships came to grief nearby in 1853.

History

Robe is a fishing town and one of the oldest towns in South Australia. Colonists founded it as a seaport and village in 1847. It was named after South Australia’s fourth governor, Major Frederick Robe, South Australia’s business seaport. Only Port Adelaide was busier.

Rockets were stored in the obelisk and were fired out to the ships. Thus creating lifelines back to shore. Baskets were also used to ferry passengers to safety. Later, as it was visible 20 km out to sea, it was used as a navigation beacon. While it’s no longer needed for that purpose, it became, over the years, an icon of the coast.

Due to the crumbling cliffs creeping ever closer to the obelisk, the council has deemed it too costly to repaint or stabilise the cliffs. It also can’t be moved as it was built from many stones that were mortared together. Eventually, the 12m obelisk will fall into the sea and the cliffs below it.

The area is popular with photographers and walking and biking trails. The entrance is free of charge, and good parking is available.

Update

In June 2024, the contact pounding of waves on the rocks around the obelisk could lead to it collapsing into the sea at any time. However, the council has stated there was also a chance it could still be there in 100 years.

While we recognise its profound historical significance, various factors such as cost, environmental impact, practicality and community opinion present significant challenges,” she said

Mayor Lisa Ruffel