As the nbn™ network starts to roll into Moana, we discover the beach town is best known for its relaxed lifestyle and proximity to the McLaren Vale wine region.

Towns and cities all across Australia are beginning to connect to the nbn™ network, so we’re celebrating the historic moments, landmarks or features that put each area on the map.

Today we’re focusing on Moana, a relaxed and naturally beautiful beach town in South Australia. Once an isolated destination, urban sprawl has made it an outer suburb of Adelaide’s south, about 40 minutes drive from the CBD; perfectly commutable for city-workers in search of a seachange.

Just 10 minutes away by car from Moana is the McLaren Vale wine region; one of Australia’s most renowned destinations for wine enthusiasts.

The beauty of the McLaren Vale region is reflected in Moana town, vineyards in one direction and the beach in the other, certainly heaven for some.

Moana means ‘blue sea’ in Maori, but before the town was given this name it was known as Dodd’s Beach. This was around the time that the sleepy area was the scene of a major shipwreck.

The Nashwauk was shipwrecked just off what is now known as Moana beach in 1855. At just 18 months old, the ship crashed ashore in the middle of the night carrying 300 Irish migrants and general cargo. Luckily everyone onboard survived, but the poor Nashwauk did not. You can still visit the site today.

Life revolves around the beach in Moana, a beautiful spot for swimming, fishing and snorkelling.

It’s one with relaxed rules compared to many others around Australia, with horses welcomed to trot along the sand, as well as it being one of the last beaches close to Adelaide that allows you to park your vehicle on the sand – a big draw on a hot summer’s day.

The Moana Beach SLSC was established in January 1938 and is where the Moana community gathers. The community certainly isn’t one of shrinking violets – the club has a monthly ‘Sing between the flags’ night, an open mic event open to singers of all ages and levels.

If locals aren’t at the SLSC, you’ll probably find them just back from the beach at Deep Blue Café, a local icon. The café is the definition of eye-catching, punctuating the understated style of the town with big pops of colour.

Now the nbn™ network is rolling into Moana, those looking for a seachange are going to have even more reason to choose this town.

Locals who enjoy the relaxed lifestyle but great proximity to the city and vineyards are set to have even more opportunity to connect, grow their businesses and enjoy world-class entertainment from the comfort of their charming corner of Australia.

In our next series we travel to Mandurah (TBC). Check out our On the Map homepage for more.

Welcome to the nbn™ network, Moana! To find out when the nbn™ network is coming to your town, check out our nbn™ network rollout map.