The SA Government has announced the creation of the new Field River Conservation Park, a 177-hectare green space designed to protect and enhance the environment in the southern suburbs of Adelaide. Adjacent to the existing Glenthorne National Park, the new conservation park extends through the suburbs, lying south of Sheidow Park and north of Reynella.
This significant venture aims to provide infrastructural development which includes the installation of new signage and the development of walking trails. An inclusive management plan is currently set to be initiated, emphasising conservation efforts and public access.
The park has been co-named ‘Kauwi-marnirla’, (pronounced ‘Cowee-ma-rni-rla’) a Kaurna term meaning ‘place of two good waters’. This dual-name recognises and incorporates the indigenous cultural significance of the area. It is a celebrated partnership aimed at utilising the traditional knowledge of the Kaurna people to manage and restore the land.
Deputy Premier Susan Close spoke about the importance of the new park in preserving the unique Field River valley. “I’m really pleased to take this opportunity to protect and restore a significant portion of a unique metropolitan river system at Field River,” said Ms Close. She continued, “The local community has long argued for more protection from development for this unique catchment and this proclamation ensures this will occur. Protection of the valley will improve the ecological, heritage and recreational outcomes of the area.”
Alex Dighton, the Labor candidate for Black, praised the establishment of the park, underlining its significance for community recreation and environmental education. “This new park will be a wonderful addition to our community’s reserves and will open up this part of the southern suburbs for walking and other recreation opportunities,” Mr Dighton stated. He pointed out that such spaces are crucial for allowing community members to enjoy natural surroundings and engage in healthy activities.
The total investment for this initiative amounts to approximately $13 million, including both financial contributions and in-kind support. The Australian Government has contributed $4 million through the Disaster Ready Fund to aid the Kaurna Firesticks Team’s efforts in managing the park. This will include fuel reduction works and cultural burning that align with seasonal and ecological requirements. Additionally, almost $4 million has been allocated by SA National Parks and Wildlife Service for acquiring the land itself.
Other significant contributions include $922,000 in-kind support from the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife, $430,000 in-kind from the Firesticks Alliance Indigenous Corporation, and substantial support from Green Adelaide and the City of Marion.
On-the-ground management will involve an Aboriginal works team tasked with various activities, including weed control and the implementation of prescribed burns. This approach not only protects the environment but also allows the Kaurna people to reconnect with their land, fulfilling cultural and environmental custodianship roles.
With these concerted efforts, the Field River Conservation Park is set to become a cornerstone for environmental conservation, cultural heritage, and community activity in southern Adelaide. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of natural reserves in urban settings and the need for collaborative management approaches that include indigenous wisdom and participation.
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