Post World War 2, rural Australia boomed. The map shows the expansion of farming and the start of industrial development. There are also the first signs of major housing sites and the shift from rural to urban living.
The Second World War, 1939–1945, was a catalyst for change. In its wake came technological and manufacturing advances, electricity for rural communities, improved communications and roads and the development of local facilities. Along coastal areas, foreshore improvements proceeded and local government improved facilities for visitors and tourists. Major towns, like Morphett Vale, Reynella, McLaren Vale and Willunga, upgraded sporting amenities, parks and playgrounds.
Wine and agriculture boomed in the early 1950s and the district was a mass of orchards, fields of hay and cereal crops, vineyards and dairies.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government was encouraging immigration from Europe and the population of cities swelled. Hand in hand came a demand for more land for housing subdivision. The South Australian Government purchased parcels near Christies Beach and adjacent to established centres like Reynella and Morphett Vale. By 1960 the Housing Trust had begun to work with local government to develop affordable housing and create new urban centres.
At the same time tourism flourished as people holidayed along the coast or spent leisure hours there.
