Kyeema Conservation Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kyeema Conservation ParkKyeema, South Australia |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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 Kyeema Conservation Park
Location in South Australia
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| Nearest town or city | Willunga |
| Established | 12 November 1964 |
| Area | 3.46 km2 (1.3 sq mi) |
| Managing authorities | Department for Environment and Water |
| Website | Kyeema Conservation Park |
| See also | Protected areas of South Australia |
Kyeema Conservation Park is a special protected area in South Australia. It's located in the area called Kyeema. This park is about 38 kilometers south of Adelaide, the state capital. It's also about 12 kilometers east of the town of Willunga. The park helps protect nature and wildlife.
About Kyeema Conservation Park
Kyeema Conservation Park covers about 346 hectares, which is like 346 football fields! It's located in a part of South Australia known as the Hundred of Kuitpo. The park has clear boundaries. A sealed road called Woodgate Hill Road is to the south. The park's western and northern edges meet the area of Kuitpo. To the east, there's an unsealed track called Blackfellows Creek Road.
Walking Trails in the Park
A famous long-distance walking path, the Heysen Trail, goes right through the middle of Kyeema Conservation Park. You can enter the trail from the south, using Woodgate Hill Road. It's a great way to explore the park's natural beauty.
History of Kyeema Park
The land that is now Kyeema Conservation Park has been protected for many years. Its official status as a protected area began on 12 November 1964. At first, it was called a wildlife reserve.
Changes in Park Status
Over time, the park's name and protection level changed.
- On 3 August 1967, it became the Kyeema National Park.
- Then, on 27 April 1972, it was renamed the Kyeema Conservation Park. This happened when a new law, the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972, was put in place.
- More land was added to the park on 4 April 1974, making it the size it is today.
Past Uses of the Land
Before it became a park, some parts of this land had different uses.
- One section was used as a "labour prison reserve" from 1932 to 1959. It was called the Kyeema Prison Camp.
- Another part of the park was a camping ground. The National Fitness Council of South Australia ran this camp from 1962 to 1964.
Wildlife and Plants
Kyeema Conservation Park is very important for its diverse wildlife and plants. In 1980, experts noted how special the park was. It has very thick natural plant life, which provides a safe home for many native animals.
Animals in the Park
Some notable animals found here include:
- The Southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus), which is an endangered animal in South Australia.
- The Australian swamp rat (Rattus leutreolus).
- Rare birds like the scaly thrush and the uncommon beautiful firetail.
Plants in the Park
The park is also home to many uncommon plants. One example is the endangered Lomandra multiflora.
Types of Trees
The park's vegetation includes different types of eucalyptus trees. You can find Eucalyptus obliqua, Eucalyptus baxteri, Eucalyptus cosmophylla, and Eucalyptus fasciculosa. Some areas have very thick plants along creeks. Open areas in the park provide food for animals like the Western grey kangaroo (Macropus fuliginosus).
The Children's Forest
In February 1983, the park was damaged by the Ash Wednesday bushfires. These fires caused a lot of destruction. After the fires, a special project began to replant trees. Local school students helped with this effort.
Replanting Efforts
In the first three years, about 20,000 young trees were planted. This area is now officially known as The Childrens Forest. The replanting project is still ongoing today.
Friends of Kyeema Park
A group of volunteers called The Friends of Kyeema Conservation Park helps with the replanting and care of the park. This group was formed in 1985 and celebrated 30 years of helping the park in 2015. Their work ensures the park remains a beautiful and safe place for wildlife.
Park Classification
Kyeema Conservation Park is classified as an IUCN Category III protected area. This means it's recognized internationally for its importance as a natural monument or feature.
