Election

Disused quarry to become a ‘Water oasis’ tourism destination under Liberal pre-election pledge

By Rebecca Wilson

Posted on March 10, 2022

The Premier said the new recreation park will transform the area into a playground in and out of the water which connects to the Torrens Linear Park trail.

Photo credit: South Australian Liberal Party

Unlocking a water oasis where you can ride, run, kayak, swim and even dive within 20 minutes of the CBD, is a re-elected Marshall Liberal Government’s vision to boost eco-tourism and create jobs.

Crystal Lake Recreation Park could become a 350-hectare adventure tourism destination at Highbury in the north-eastern suburbs where a disused quarry currently sits behind fences.

Premier Steven Marshall said the new recreation park would transform the area into a playground of activity in and out of the water which connects with the Torrens Linear Park trail.

“This is an unprecedented opportunity to create an eco-tourism water oasis within a stone’s throw of the CBD in our north-eastern suburbs,” Premier Marshall said.

“Tourism will be a critical sector as we bounce back from COVID-19 and Crystal Lake Recreation Park could become another jewel in the crown for our visitor economy.

“Adelaide has already been recognised as the third most liveable city in the world and the second-ever National Park City and projects like this will only enhance this reputation further.”

Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said Crystal Lake Recreation Park would be a drawcard for locals and visitors alike.

“Around the crystal-clear lake itself – the centre point of the park – visitors would be able to enjoy walking and biking trails, lookouts and places to rest and have a picnic,” Minister Speirs said.

“With a vision to have platforms, pontoons and launching facilities, the lake itself is the perfect spot to kayak, paddleboard and swim. The crystal-clear blue waters and terraced shape of the lake also make it great for scuba diving.

“We have already seen the huge success of opening up our reservoirs across the state with more than 400,000 people visiting them and I think Crystal Lake Recreation Park could be even more popular.”

The announcement follows the State Government entering into commercial negotiations with the site’s current owner to explore public access to the Highbury quarry site.