Kaniva - Wiregrass Heritage Trail

Step into the mythical world of Wiregrass and discover the Kaniva places and stories that inspired celebrated Australian artist and cartoonist Percy Leason.

Leason drew upon memories of his childhood in Kaniva when creating the Wiregrass cartoon series. The cartoons humorously portrayed everyday life in rural Australia during the 1920s and 1930s, when motor cars, electricity and improved communications were transforming country communities while families faced drought and the Great Depression.

Distance: Approximately 450 m
Time: Allow 45 minutes
Terrain: Mostly level
Track: Town footpaths
Start: Windmill Corner at the Kaniva Visitor Information Centre

Follow the self-guided trail along both sides of Commercial Street, from the historic Commercial Hotel and Windmill Corner to the Kaniva Shire Hall, which was built in 1928.

Features include:

A permanent Wiregrass exhibition inside the Kaniva Visitor Information Centre
A large-scale Wiregrass mural at the Kaniva Post Office
Interactive interpretive panels throughout the town centre
Stories about the people and places that inspired the Wiregrass cartoons
Guided interactive walking tours led by local volunteers

Guided tours take approximately 45 minutes and are suitable for all ages and most fitness levels. Seating is available at some locations along the route. Bookings are essential and should be made at least 24 hours before the preferred tour date.

Accessibility:

The route follows mostly level footpaths and seating is available at some locations.

Opening Hours:

The outdoor self-guided trail can be followed at any time. The permanent exhibition is accessible during Kaniva Visitor Information Centre opening hours. See current visitor information. Guided tours are available at scheduled times and by arrangement.