Image credit: Michael Mullan | City of Marion
Tucked away in Adelaide’s south, the Oaklands Wetland quietly goes about its work. Purifying stormwater, supporting local wildlife, and feeding green spaces across the city, these are all things the Wetland does.
As a natural ‘water factory’, the wetland cleans up to 400 million litres of stormwater annually. It’s a gentle system of ponds and native vegetation that slowly filters water over three days. The clean water is then stored almost 100 metres underground in aquifers.
This system now supports irrigation for more than 31 local parks, reserves, street trees, and playing fields.
But the Oaklands Wetland isn’t just a behind-the-scenes water worker. It’s also a thriving habitat for wildlife. You might spot wading birds, cockatoos, ducks, all set amongst a vivid background of river red gums rising proudly from the landscape. If you’re really lucky you could see protected species such as the Grey-headed Flying-fox and the Purple Spotted Gudgeon, which call this space home.
Within the reserve sits the Oaklands Education Centre, a purpose-built facility developed in partnership between the City of Marion and Flinders University. The centre supports environmental research and education, and showcases the wetland’s stormwater re-use system. It’s free to use for schools, not-for-profits, and community groups, and offers a hands-on way to learn about sustainable water management.
It’s a pleasant surprise to discover such a peaceful spot nestled between some of Adelaide’s busiest roads. The area makes an ideal day out for families, with space to explore and plenty to see.
The wetland offers a quiet place for a stroll, a picnic, or even a lunchtime break surrounded by birdlife. It’s a well-kept public space, thoughtfully maintained by the community.
But, with such a rich ecosystem and plenty to uncover, a guided tour is the best way to learn how the wetland filters water and to spot what’s hiding among the trees and reeds.
This is why, on six Thursday mornings between 15 May and 11 December, the wetland will host a fascinating guided tour. Guests will join volunteer guide David for a one-hour session, including a 30-minute indoor presentation at the Oaklands Education Centre and a 30-minute walk around the site.
It’s a chance for kids to explore a real-life nature wonderland, spotting birds, finding creepy-crawlies, and learning cool facts about how the wetland works, all while getting out and about in the fresh air.
Numbers are capped at 20, so early registration is encouraged. The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, and parking is limited, so plan ahead.
To secure your spot, bookings are now open online.
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