Live it, love it!
South Australians love to play and watch sport—for many it's a passion, a social glue and a way of life.
Kids start young, playing in a whole range of sporting teams associated with their schools or local areas.
Sporting clubs and teams are at the heart of many suburbs and communities, especially in regional SA. One of the quickest ways to get to know the people in your area is to join in...
Australian Rules Football (AFL)
Adelaidians are passionate supporters of the AFL, with two local teams playing in the national league—Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide Power. State and amateur league matches are also played on ovals across the State. If you're keen to 'kick the footy', support a local team or just learn what all the fuss is about, visit the AFL's website.
Cricket
The world-renowned Adelaide Oval is the epicentre of sport in South Australia, with international and state matches regularly played here over the summer. For all things cricket, visit the South Australian Cricket Association's website: they're responsible for promoting the game in SA.
Soccer
The world game is growing in popularity across Australia and it's no different in SA. If you'd like to join an amateur team or want to know more about the State team, Adelaide United, visit the Football Federation SA's website.
Motor sport
It’s huge – and mostly divided into two camps because you either love Holden or Ford… In March, the eastern Adelaide CBD is transformed to a race-track to host the Clipsal 500 V8 Supercar race. This four-day spectacular is one of Australia’s biggest sporting events and a repeat winner for ‘Australia’s Best Festival or Major Event’. In 2009, Clipsal drew 250,000 spectators.
Cycling
Adelaide and surrounds make for perfect cycling conditions thanks to a mix of cruisy flat lands and punishing steep climbs. In 2008, the yearly Tour Down Under cycle race was given ProTour status; in 2009, the six-day race saw the professional comeback of Lance Armstrong and attracted visitors (and entrants) from all over the world.
Walking/hiking
South Australia has breathtaking scenery and it's often best enjoyed while walking one of the State's many trails. The Heysen Trail is the largest—a whole 1600km, stretching from the coast to the Flinders Ranges. In 40 Great South Australian Short Walks you'll find hiking trails for the adventurous as well as relaxing local walks the whole family can enjoy.
Parks and reserves
South Australia has over 300 parks and reserves including wildlife protection areas, conservation reserves and recreational parks. These are areas of outstanding beauty as well as havens of remarkable wildlife unique to Australia and in some instance, the State.
