Werakata National Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Werakata National Park New South Wales
IUCN Category II (National Park)
Werakata National Park Location in New South Wales
Nearest town or city	Cessnock
Established	January 1999 (1999-01)
Area	33.37 km2 (12.9 sq mi)
Managing authorities	NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
Website	Werakata National Park
See also	Protected areas of New South Wales

The Werakata National Park is a special protected area in New South Wales, Australia. It is located in the Lower Hunter Region. This national park covers about 3,337 hectares (that's about 8,246 acres!).

The park is found near the town of Cessnock. It is split into three main parts. These parts are located near the towns of Abermain, Kearsley, and Kitchener/Abernethy. The Werakata National Park is also part of the important Hunter Valley Bird Area. This means it's a very important place for many different birds.

Just south of the national park, you'll find the Werakata State Conservation Area. This is another protected area, but it's managed a bit differently.

History of Werakata National Park

How the Park Was Created

The Werakata National Park was first created in January 1999. It was originally called Lower Hunter National Park. The land for the park used to be part of the Cessnock State Forest. This forest was about 1,130 hectares in size.

The park grew even bigger on January 1, 2003. Another 478 hectares from the Cessnock State Forest were added. Also, 531 hectares from the Aberdare State Forest became part of the park. Later, in 2007, the Werakata State Conservation Area was created. It covers a large area of 2,257 hectares.

Past Use of the Land

Before European settlers arrived, the Hunter region was home to several Aboriginal tribes. These included the Awabakal, Worimi, Wonnarua, Geawegal, Birrpai, and Darkinjung peoples. We don't know much about how they used the specific area of the park.

In the 1800s, European settlers started using the land for forestry. Sawmills were built in and around the park area. Much of the wood was used in local mines to support the tunnels. Logging continued for many years. The Cessnock and Aberdare State Forests were officially named in the 1940s and 1960s. Eventually, these forests were given to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. This is how they became protected areas.

Plants and Animals (Flora and Fauna)

Unique Plant Life

When the park was first set up, experts noticed something special. The park has unique plant communities called Spotted Gum-Ironbark forests. These types of forests were not well protected in other areas. So, Werakata National Park helps to save them.

Amazing Animals

The park is home to many different animals. Some of these animals are considered "threatened species." This means their numbers are getting low, and they need protection.

Here are some of the special animals you might find in the park:

• Squirrel glider: This small, furry animal can glide through the air from tree to tree.
• Grey-headed flying fox: This is a type of large bat that eats fruit and nectar. It helps to pollinate plants.
• Regent honeyeater: This is a beautiful bird with black and yellow feathers. It is very rare.
• Swift parrot: This parrot is also very rare. It travels long distances and feeds on nectar from flowering trees.

Things to Do and See

Werakata National Park offers many ways to enjoy nature. It's a great place for outdoor activities.

• Astills Picnic Area: This is a lovely spot where you can have a picnic with your family and friends.
• Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland: This is a special type of forest area within the park. It has unique plants that grow in sandy, swampy soil.
• Bushwalking: You can go for a walk and explore the park's trails. One popular walk goes up to Tomalpin Hill.
• Bicycle Trails: If you like cycling, there are special trails for bikes. You can start at Astills Picnic Area, ride along Deadmans Trail, and return via Gibsons Road.
• Old Forestry Hut: You can also find an old hut that was once used by forest workers. It's located off Old Maitland Road.

See also

In Spanish: Parque nacional Werakata para niños