New recreational trails to link Barossa reservoirs

MEDIA RELEASE

More than 12,000 hectares of native bushland, plantation forests and conservation parks in the southern Barossa region will be available for recreational activity thanks to a network of new access trails opened today by the Marshall Liberal Government.

The new 9.5 kilometre trail connecting the South Para and Warren reservoir reserves makes it easier for visitors to experience the beauty of both sites this June long weekend and enjoy a range of activities like picnicking, cycling and fishing, with a separate trail linking South Para to nearby Williamstown.

Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the expansion adds another element to the adventure tourism scene on offer as a result of the Marshall Liberal Government’s policy to open up South Australian reservoirs for recreation.

“The beauty of the new trails is it allows people to run or hike between two of the state’s prominent reservoirs while also providing connection to camping grounds in the nearby Mount Crawford Forest or Para Wirra Conservation Park,” said Minister Speirs.

“For the more adventurous types with hiking experience, the north Warren loop trail connects to a beautiful but challenging 20-kilometre trek winding through the Mount Crawford Forest, South Para Reservoir reserve and to Para Wirra.

“The Marshall Liberal Government’s plan to open up South Australia’s reservoirs has been embraced by the public with more than 15,000 visitors at Warren and South Para since we improved access for recreational activities.

“Providing improved access trails in time for the long weekend will encourage more South Australians to pack the car and hit the great outdoors supporting our regional economies.

“It’s important that South Australians can safely access our natural spaces to be active and enjoy the fresh air but I urge everyone to ensure we don’t undo the good work that’s been done in South Australia and continue to practise social distancing.”

Opening for expanded recreational access last year, visitors can use the South Para and Warren reservoir reserves for a range of activities including kayaking, bushwalking, cycling and picnicking, with fishing available with the required fishing permit.

“While we continue to enjoy our reservoirs now, we are also on track to deliver even more experiences, opening more reservoirs for recreational access including suburban reservoirs at Hope Valley and Happy Valley,” said Minister Speirs.

Current South Australian regulations permit people to safely visit reservoir reserves and conservation parks that are open for public access following social distancing guidelines of 1.5 metres apart and in groups of no more than 20 people.

More information can be found at www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au