Parks of Kangaroo Island Escape to the Wild Welcome to Kangaroo Island’S Parks

Home , Beyeria, Busby Islet, Cape Borda, Cape du Couedic, Cape Gantheaume, Cape Willoughby

Parks of Kangaroo Island Escape to the wild Welcome to Kangaroo Island’s parks

The Department of Environment, Water Kangaroo Island is ‘a big island’ and Natural Resources manages one – the third largest off the coast of national park, eighteen conservation Australia. Many visitors frequently parks, four marine parks and five state ‘We wish we could have stayed wilderness protection areas on longer. We didn’t realise the Island Kangaroo Island. Some areas are vast, was so large!’. Don’t be disappointed. others small – all possessing the natural Ensure you allow adequate time to beauty unique to Kangaroo Island. The best appreciate all that is on offer parks conserve an array within the parks. of natural environments. Mallee Please consider the possible weather woodlands, low open forests and conditions at the site you are planning woodlands, karst landscape, fresh and to visit. For example, when leaving saline lakes, spectacular coastal cliffs your accomodation it may be mild but and sand dune systems all provide the conditions could be very different habitat to an abundant range of wildlife. once you reach the south coast. There are a wide variety of things to It is recommended that you always see and do on Kangaroo Island. This take a drinking water, a jacket and booklet provides information about the a sun hat. experiences available within the parks. Contents

Welcome to Kangaroo Island’s parks 6 Cape du Couedic 20 Getting about 6 About heritage accommodation 21 Your safety 6 Special offer 22 Where to go, what to do 7 What visitors say 23 Fires 7 Bushwalking 24 Baudin Conservation Park 8 Walks and hikes 24 Beyeria Conservation Park 8 Walk Safely 24 Cape Bouguer Wilderness Coastal Treks 25 Protection Area 8 Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail 25 Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park 8 Kangaroo Island map 26 Cape Gantheaume Select your trail 28 Wilderness Protection Area 9 Cape Willoughby Conservation Park 10 Trail descriptions 30 Flinders Chase National Park 12 1. Beyeria Walk 30 Cape Borda Lightstation 13 2. Ironstone Hill Hike 31 Kelly Hill Conservation Park 13 3. Cape Willoughby Lightstation Lashmar Conservation Park 14 Heritage Hike 32 Ravine des Casoars 4. Tadpole Cove Walk 33 Wilderness Protection Area 14 5. Timber Creek Walk 34 Seal Bay Conservation Park 15 6. Bald Hill Walk 35 Camping 16 7. Curley Creek Hike 36 8. Hanson Bay Hike 37 9. Burgess Hike (incorporating Mays Hike) 38 GasOnline fires payment and bookings 16 10. Remarkable Rocks Walk 39 HeritageSolid fuel accommodationfires 1716 11. Weirs Cove Hike 40 Rocky River Precinct 17 12. Admirals Arch Walk 41 Cape Willoughby 18 13. Cape du Couedic Hike 42 Cape Borda 19 14. Lighthouse Heritage Walk 43

4 Parks of Kangaroo Island 15. Platypus Waterholes Walk 44 Slow down for native wildlife 67 16. Discovery Walk 45 Please don’t feed the wildlife 67 17. Woodland Walk 46 Wildlife watching guidelines 67 18. Heritage Walk 47 Bushfire safety for travellers 68 19. Black Swamp Hike 48 Fire danger ratings 68 20. Rocky River Hike 49 Total Fire Bans 68 21. Snake Lagoon Hike 50 On Total Fire Ban days 68 22. Sandy Creek Hike 51 For your safety 68 23. Ravine Hike 52 Bushwalking 68 24. Clifftop Hike 53 Travelling on the road 70 25. Return Road Hike 54 If you need to use your vehicle 26. Harveys Return Hike 55

27. Waterfall Creek Hike 56 Further information 72 Marine Parks 57 as a shelter from a bushfire 70 Kangaroo Island’s Marine Parks map 58 Encounter Marine Park 60 Southern Kangaroo Island Marine Park 61 Southern Spencer Gulf Marine Park 62 Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park 63 Self-guided drives 64 D'Estrees Bay, Cape Gantheaume CP 64 Shackle Road, Flinders Chase NP 64 Park notes 65 Beware deadly phytophthora cinnamon fungus 65 The National Parks Code 66 Wildlife notes 67

Parks of Kangaroo Island 5 Welcome to Kangaroo Island’s parks

Getting about • If you are hiking or trekking, leave an itinerary with a responsible person. The Island is traversed by 1600 km They should contact police if you have of roads. The majority are unsealed. not returned by a pre-arranged date The ironstone gravel used to form and time. some unsealed roads resembles small marbles and can make the surface slippery. • Coastal treks need to be discussed Unsealed roads are often corrugated and with a Ranger in advance. bumpy – please drive carefully. • Stay on walking trails as these have Kangaroo Island has an abundance of been routed to ensure the easiest and wildlife. Please drive slowly. The best way safest passage to your destination. to avoid a collision with wildlife is to • Drownings have occurred at reduce speed and avoid driving in the early Remarkable Rocks in Flinders Chase morning, late afternoon and at night. National Park. Please observe the The Island is much bigger than people think: warning signs. • 4500 km2 in area • Please read the important fire safety information on page 68. • 155 km long and up to 55 km wide • Park closures (for purposes such as feral • two hours by car from east to west animal control, public safety, threatened • most of the beaches and coves are species breeding, trail maintenance etc). located many kilometres off the major Check www.parks.sa.gov.au for up to ring roads – allow extra driving time. date information on park or trail closures • The recreational use of drones is Your safety generally not permitted in national Your safety is important. You can do much parks and reserves, including for to ensure your personal safety while in the photography and filming. This is park by observing the following: because they can severely disrupt resting and breeding animals. They • Obey all road, track and trail signs – also take away from the remote they have been provided for your safety. wilderness experience that many of • Large areas of the island’s coastline our parks offer. are dominated by tall limestone cliffs – stay well clear and use lookouts where provided.

6 Parks of Kangaroo Island Where to go, what to do

The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources offers a range of activities in parks on Kangaroo Island. Guided tours are available at Kelly Hill Caves, Seal Bay, Cape Borda and Cape Willoughby. All sites including the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre are open everyday (except Christmas day). Tour times and fees apply.

Tour and entry tickets can be purchased on a ‘pay as you go’ basis or via a Kangaroo Island Tour Pass which gives entry to key parks and tours and is valid for twelve months.

For pricing and further information please refer to the Kangaroo Island Parks Tours and Entry Guide available at the Natural Resources Centre (NRC) Kingscote and all park offices or visit www.parks.sa.gov.au.

Don’t forget to allow yourself plenty of time in addition to the tours offered as there is much to do and see. Fires Solid fuel or wood fires are prohibited at all times in National Parks, Conservation Parks and Wilderness Protection Areas. Gas fires may be used except on days of Total Fire Ban, when all fires are prohibited.

Campfires are only permitted in designated fire pits in the Antechamber South campground, within the Lashmar Conservation Park.

Platypus Waterholes Walk Parks of Kangaroo Island 7 Where to go, what to do

Baudin Conservation Park Cape Bouguer Wilderness Protection Area

The Ironstone Hill Hike in Baudin Conservation Park follows the historic Adjoins Kelly Hill Conservation Park: Bullock Track to Cape Willoughby and The full day Hanson Bay Hike page 37 takes leads to Ironstone Hill. Interpretive signs you through a range of landscape from Kelly explore the life of Harry Bates and his early Hill Caves through the Wilderness Protection farming endeavours. Get a sense of this Area to the southern coast at Hanson Bay. area’s farming heritage and see some stunning seascapes and sheoak woodlands. Day 5 of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Hike Trail (KIWT) traverses through this wilderness area. Ironstone Hill Hike page 31.

Beyeria Conservation Park Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park Murray Lagoon Discover some of Kangaroo Island’s rare plants. Interpretive signs along the short Beyeria Walk page 30 give an insight into Birdwatchers: visit Kangaroo Island’s ‘the many faces of the mallee scrub’. largest lagoon. The walks and hike take Visitors have the opportunity to read about you through a range of wetland plant the mallee broombush plant community, communities with spectacular views the natural process of change and rare and birdwatching opportunities. endemic plants that grow in the area. Walks and hikes Timber Creek Walk page 34, Bald Hill Walk page 35, Curley Creek Hike page 36.

8 Parks of Kangaroo Island Where to go, what to do

Cape Gantheaume Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park Wilderness Protection Area D’Estrees Bay

Cape Gantheaume Wilderness Protection Area covers 20 000 hectares. Visitors may access the area on foot. For further Historically D’Estrees Bay was the site of a information please speak to a ranger at whaling station and later partly cleared for the Natural Resources Centre, Kingscote. farming. Today the area conserves coastal Trek vegetation and provides habitat for wildlife. Cape Gantheaume Coastal Trek page 25 Relax at D’Estrees Bay by doing the Tadpole (Seasonal closure applies, contact park Cove Walk, camping, or walking the office or visit www.parks.sa.gov.au for secluded beaches. latest closure information). Permits are required to camp, available online.

Walks and treks Tadpole Cove Walk page 33.

Self-guided drive Follow the signs marked with the osprey bird and discover the natural and cultural significance of the area.

Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park Parks of Kangaroo Island 9 Where to go, what to do

Cape Willoughby Walks and hikes Conservation Park Cape Willoughby Lightstation Heritage Walk page 43. Cape Willoughby Lightstation Light refreshments and souvenirs are available. • Self-guided Lightstation Heritage Hike page 32. The ocean backdrop to Cape Willoughby • Self-guided Lightstation Precinct Lightstation is spectacular. Join a guided Walk (fee applies). tour of South Australia’s first lightstation and enjoy the views across Backstairs • Self-guided Tours do not include Passage from the top of the lighthouse. access inside the lighthouse. Hear stories about working and living in • Guided Lightstation tour available such a harsh and remote environment. for fees and times refer to Kangaroo Learn about the importance of coastal Island Tour and Entry Guide. shipping to early colonial trading and Accommodation passenger transport well into the 20th century. The lighthouse was once used Heritage lightkeepers’ cottages – Seymour as a venue for local dances. Cottage, Thomas Cottage page 18. On the way to or from Cape Willoughby, visit Baudin and Lashmar Conservation Parks. Please check www.parks.sa.gov.au for park and trail closures.

10 Parks of Kangaroo Island Where to go, what to do

Flinders Chase National Park and Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area

Flinders Chase National Park Parks of Kangaroo Island 11 Where to go, what to do

Flinders Chase National Park Accommodation Mays Homestead page 17, Postmans Cottage page 17, Campground page 16.

Visitor Centre Displays and activities, cafe, park offices, souvenirs, information, entry and camping permits.

West Bay Road Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks at Hikes Cape du Couedic will give you a taste of Snake Lagoon Hike page 50, Sandy Creek rugged coastal scenery. However don’t Hike page 51, Rocky River Hike page 49, forget to explore some of the other Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail page 25. attractions within the park’s 34 000 hectares such as high-energy beaches, the Bush camping unspoilt Rocky River, vast wilderness areas Snake Lagoon and West Bay page 16, and cultural heritage sites. Discover some Harveys Return page 14. of Kangaroo Island’s stories in the Flinders Cape du Couedic Chase Visitor Centre: wildlife and histori- cal displays, touch screen, touch table and Walks, hikes and treks a fossil dig pit for kids. Admirals Arch Walk page 41, Weirs Cove Hike page 40, Lighthouse Heritage Walk Park entry and camping fees apply. page 43, Cape du Couedic Hike page 42, The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail page 25. starts at the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre. Accommodation Rocky River Precinct Heritage lightkeepers’ cottage – Troubridge Lodge, Parndana Lodge, Walks and hikes Karatta Lodge page 20. Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail page 25, Discovery Walk page 45, Black Swamp Hike Remarkable Rocks page 48, Platypus Waterholes Walk page Walks 44, Rocky River Hike page 49, Heritage Remarkable Rocks Walk page 39, Walk page 47, Woodland Walk page 46. Heritage Walk page 47.

12 Parks of Kangaroo Island Cape Borda Lightstation Kelly Hill Conservation Park

Cape Borda Lightstation is located on Allow time to enjoy the karst landscape, the north-western corner of the island tall woodland, the understorey plants and and is remote even today. Deep in the wildlife by walking to the Show Cave wilderness, perched high above the vast entrance via one of the walking trails. ocean, stands a unique square lighthouse, Picnic and barbecue facilities are available. steeped in European history. Join a guided End point of Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. tour of the lightstation, including the museum, and appreciate the achievements Kelly Hill Caves of a bygone era. Cannon firing is conducted daily on the 12:30 pm tour. Visitors can Delight in the unexpected magic of the enjoy the isolation of the area by walking underground world as you walk amidst one of the trails, visiting nearby sites pristine, ornate cave formations on the associated with the lightstation or staying in Show Cave Tour. Discover why caves are ‘a a lightkeepers’ cottage. Light refreshments window into the past’ and how the and souvenirs available. Entry Fee applies. amazing shape of the helictite is formed. Tour Once you have experienced the splendour Guided Lighstation tour, for opening days, of the Show Cave Tour, have a go at fees and conditions apply refer to Kangaroo adventure caving. You will be equipped Island Parks Tour and Entry guide. with a helmet and a light to follow your Note: tour dates and times can vary, cave guide through the underground maze. contact the Natural Resource Centre Some climbing and crawling is required. for further information on8553 4444. Tours Hikes Show Cave Tour and Adventure Caving, Clifftop Hike page 53, Return Road Hike fees and conditions apply refer to the page 54. Kangaroo Island Tour and Entry guide.

Accommodation Walks and hikes Heritage lightkeepers’ cottages – Flinders Burgess Hike incorporating Mays Walk Light Lodge, Hartley Hut and Woodward page 38, Hanson Bay Hike page 37. Hut page 19. Parks of Kangaroo Island 13 Where to go, what to do

Lashmar Conservation Park covers 40 000 hectares. Visitors may access some areas on foot. For more This small park adjoins the long sandy information please ask an Information beach at Antechamber Bay. Officer at Flinders Chase Visitor Centre.

Antechamber Bay Adjoins Flinders Chase National Park.

Visit Scott Cove and Harveys Return Cemetery. Picnic and camping facilities are available at this popular swimming and fishing Hike beach. Solid fuel fires are not permitted Return Road Hike page 54, Ravine Hike during fire danger season. Comfort fires page 52 – from the car park on the are permitted in fire pits only. Comfort Ravine des Casoars Road. fires are not permitted during the fire season. Refer to www.cfs.sa.gov.au for Harveys Return further information. Always use the fire pits provided, do not leave fires unattended and carefully extinguish all fires before you leave. Refer to page 16 Harveys Return was initially used by for more information about fires on parks. sealers to load salted seal skins collected from the area in the early 1800’s. Later, Ravine des Casoars Harveys Return was used as a landing site Wilderness Protection Area for supplies for Cape Borda Lightstation.

Hikes and treks Harveys Return Hike page 55, Return The Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Road Hike page 54 – from Harveys Return Protection Area is located to the north Campground. of Flinders Chase Visitor Centre and

14 Parks of Kangaroo Island Where to go, what to do

Seal Bay Conservation Park Tours and access (Fee applies) Guided Beach Tour

Access to lookout, boardwalk and viewing platform (disabled access) – an addition or alternative to the beach tour. Seal Bay is home to the third largest population of one of the world’s rarest Walk marine mammals, the Australian Sea-lion. Self-guided - The Flowering Plants Guided beach tours give visitors the of Seal Bay Conservation Park, opportunity to observe the natural coastal plants identified along the behaviour of these wild animals. trail to the lookout.

The 800 metre Don Dixon boardwalk is Seal Bay Sanctuary Zone adjoins Seal an easy stroll through the terrestrial Bay Conservation Park to protect the habitat of the Australian Sea-lion. A immediate marine habitat of the platform overlooking the beach gives Australian Sea-lions. Please be aware visitors a great view of sea-lions resting of the restrictions in these zones. and coming and going from foraging trips at sea. The boardwalk has interpretive The beach at Bales Bay is part of the Cape signage along the way giving visitors an Gantheume Wilderness Protection Area. overview of the habits of the Australian Sea-lion.

Allow time to look at the visitor centre displays (including a touch table) and for buying quality souvenirs.

Picnic facilities are available at nearby Bales Bay a few kms drive.

Parks of Kangaroo Island 15 Online payment Camping and bookings A new system for paying park entry fees and booking campsites online Kangaroo Island’s parks offer a range of is being introduced across the state. camping options. Permits are required and In future, you may be required camping is allowed only in designated areas. to pay and book online before entering parks. For updates For permits and bookings for camping visit www.parks.sa.gov.au/ in Flinders Chase National Park visit kiaccommodation. www.parks.sa.gov.au or contact Flinders Chase Visitor Centre on (08) 8553 4490. Permits for camping in Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park, Ravine des Casoars Solid fuel fires WPA, Flinders Chase NP or Lashmar CP Solid fuel fires are prohibited at all times can be obtained. in reserves across Kangaroo Island. The Bush trekking camping – please discuss only exception is at Antechamber Bay with a ranger at the nearest park office. South Campground in Lashmar CP where small comfort fires are permitted within Gas fires designated fire pits outside of fire danger Gas fires permitted all year, except on season. Please use the firepits provided, declared Total Fire Ban Days. The Country do not leave fires unattended and carefully Fire Service (CFS) broadcasts notices on extinguish all fires before you leave. local radio 891 ABC (AM) and 765 5CC (AM) or phone CFS hotline 1300 362 361. Follow all CFS standards www.cfs.sa.gov.au.

Campground Online Caravan Public Toilets Water Hot Camp Gas bookings accessible phone showers fires BBQ’s required Flinders Chase National Park Rocky River Precinct 3 3 3 3 3 3 7 3 Snake Lagoon 3 7 7 3 3 7 7 7 West Bay 3 7 7 3 3 7 7 7 Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area Harveys Return 3 3 7 3 3 7 7 7 Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park Murray Lagoon 3 3 7 3 3 7 7 7 D’Estrees Bay 3 7 7 3 ~ 7 7 7 Lashmar Conservation Park Antechamber Bay 3 3 7 3 3 7 3 3

~ water supply cannot be guaranteed. If available, water must be treated.

16 Parks of Kangaroo Island Heritage accommodation

Rocky River Precinct • Mays Homestead is a heritage listed • Postmans Cottage is a one-roomed quaint four-roomed stone cottage, stone hut built for the mailman who built in the early 1890s by Charles May, would call and stay overnight once a the original pastoralist at Rocky River. fortnight. The cottage is located next During its early history, the occupants to Mays Homestead, near the Flinders provided the nearest source of Chase Visitor Centre. (Cottage has assistance for survivors of the many adjoining toilet and shower). shipwrecks that occurred along the For pricing and further information please rugged coastline. Later the building refer to the Kangaroo Island Parks Tours was used by the first ranger at and Entry Guide available at the Natural Flinders Chase National Park. Resources Centre Kingscote and all park offices or visit www.parks.sa.gov.au/ kiaccommodation.

Mays Homestead Parks of Kangaroo Island 17 Heritage accommodation

Cape Willoughby

Seymour and Thomas Cottages are located on the rugged easternmost point of the Island overlooking the treacherous Backstairs Passage. These cottages, built in 1927, form part of the lightkeepers settlement of Cape Willoughby. Stones from the original 1850s lighthouse dwellings were used to build the large white fence around the cottages. Treat yourself to a relaxing experience in one of these renovated heritage-listed cottages.

Spectacular views can be seen from the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse. Tours are available at advertised times.

For pricing and further information please refer to the Kangaroo Island Parks Tours and Entry Guide available at the Natural Resources Centre Kingscote and all park offices or visit www.parks.sa.gov.au/kiaccommodation.

18 Parks of Kangaroo Island Thomas and Seymour cottages Heritage accommodation

Cape Borda Situated in the very north-west corner of Kangaroo Island, Cape Borda is a classic lighthouse location. Set deep in the wilderness and perched high above a vast ocean, it is remote and stunningly beautiful. The lighthouse was built in 1858 to guide sailing ships arriving off the ‘roaring forties’ trade winds.

• Flinders Light Lodge is a spacious, comfortable limestone cottage that once housed the lighthouse keeper and his family. Ideally situated with glorious sea views.

• Hartley Hut is a prefabricated cabin that originally served as the relieving keeper’s quarters. It is cosy and modern with sea views and abundant wildlife nearby.

• Woodward Hut is Kangaroo Island’s most affordable Heritage accommodation! Quaint and different.

Flinders Light Lodge Parks of Kangaroo Island 19 Heritage accommodation

Cape du Couedic

Parndana, Karatta and Troubridge Lodges are classic lightkeepers cottages, large and roomy, built in 1907 from local limestone laboriously carved into solid building blocks. Magnificently restored, featuring slate roofs and polished pine floors, these three-bedroom cottages are heritage listed. Situated within Flinders Chase National Park, approximately 14 km from Rocky River at Cape du Couedic, the cottages are isolated and provide comfortable accommodation in a spectacular coastal environment.

20 Parks of Kangaroo Island Parndana Lodge, CapeParndana du Couedic Lodge Heritage accommodation

About heritage accommodation

• You will need to bring all food supplies.

• Arrival time from 2 pm onwards.

• Departure time 9 am at Cape Borda, 10 am at Cape Willoughby and Flinders Chase cottages.

• Ideal for families and those wanting a secluded getaway.

• Pets are not permitted.

Parndana Lodge, CapeParndana du Couedic Lodge Parks of Kangaroo Island 21 Heritage accommodation

Special offer

Stay a total of five nights or more at any park Heritage accommodation and receive a free Kangaroo Island Tour Pass valid for duration of stay. For bookings and information contact: Flinders Chase National Park PMB 246 via Kingscote 5223 T: (08) 8553 4410 Fax (08) 8559 7268 E: [email protected] Bookings online: www.parks.sa.gov.au/kiaccommodation

Sheets/ Cutlery/ Queen/ Single pillowcases/ Blankets/ Bathroom/ Stove/ crockery/ Separate ACCOMMODATION Bedrooms double bed bed towels pillows toilet microwave saucepans lounge Heating Cape Borda Hartley Hut 1 DB 1 trundle/1 foldaway yes yes yes gas/mw yes no gas Flinders Light Lodge 3 QS 4 yes yes yes gas/mw yes yes gas Woodward Hut 1 room only - 2 fee applies yes nearby small electric/mw yes no electric Cape du Couedic Parndana Lodge 3 QS and DB 2 yes yes yes gas/wood/mw yes yes gas Karatta Lodge 3 QS and DB 2 yes yes yes gas/wood/mw yes yes gas Troubridge Lodge 3 QS 4 yes yes yes gas/wood/mw yes yes gas Cape Willoughby Seymour Cottage 5 QS and DB 4 yes yes yes electric/mw yes yes electric Thomas Cottage 5 QS and DB 4 yes yes yes electric/mw yes yes electric Rocky River Precinct QS and double Mays Homestead 2 bunk/single top 1 yes yes yes wood/gas/mw yes yes wood double bunk/ Postmans Cottage 1 room only single top 1 yes yes yes wood/electric/mw yes no woodstove

22 Parks of Kangaroo Island Heritage accommodation

What visitors say

”We class this as being in the top three of all our trips throughout Australia. Only wish it could be longer.” Gold Coast, Queensland

”We loved every moment but the stay wasn’t long enough, the accommodation was excellent.” Laverton, Victoria

”We have travelled far and wide staying at all sorts of places from camping to five star. This beats them all. Fantastic Cape Willoughby.” NSW

”What a perfect spot for our first visit to Australia! One look at Cape Borda and the kangaroos in the backyard convinced us that we had made the right choice. It’s all we dreamed Australia could be - friendly people, great wildlife and stunning scenery! We love it here!” Pennsylvania, USA

Parks of Kangaroo Island 23 Bushwalking

Walks and hikes

Kangaroo Island’s parks offer walks and hikes that will revitalise your spirit and senses. The trails and their features offer visitors an overview of the variety of habitats and species conserved in the parks of Kangaroo Island.

There are eleven walks and sixteen hikes. Walks are short trails of generally less than three kilometres. Hikes require some experience and a reasonable fitness level; the trail may be uneven and steep for short distances. See map on pages 26 and 27 for walk and hike locations, and pages 28 and 29 for trail descriptions.

You will be able to:

• Observe wildlife in the wild.

• Witness the wild forces of nature.

• Immerse yourself in Kangaroo Island’s wild past.

• Sense the power of the ocean.

• Delight in the many wonders of the natural world.

Walk safely

Be prepared when bushwalking:

• Wear sturdy shoes, hat and sunscreen.

• Carry sufficient drinking water. Do not rely on tanks or creeks for drinking water.

• Keep to the defined walking trail.

• Inform a responsible person of your proposed route and expected time of return.

• Weather conditions can change quickly. Ensure you have appropriate clothing.

• Be aware of fire danger and severe weather warnings.

Trails are subject to closures check www.parks.sa.gov.au for up to date information on trail closures.

24 Parks of Kangaroo Island Bushwalking

Coastal treks For serious trekkers, a range of treks can be undertaken along some sections of the coast around Flinders Chase National Park, Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area, and Cape Gantheaume WildernessWALK Protection Area. HIKE HIKE TREK Treks often passES through remote areas andETE are usually totally CEGIG unmarked. A trek een will race be physically tra demanding me and merate users ncne must me tee ncne n tance tra th me tee ncne be experienced bushwalkers. tabe r chren rrear race th rrear race th e neen bae e neen bae nmare tra rrear race th e Note: some sections of our parks are closed average during level of sensitive fi tness average level of fi tness neen bae coastal raptor breeding season between may-december. me hn eerence tabe r eerence aer th naatna For further information about park and trail closures visit the Parks SA website parks.sa.gov.au high level of fi tness Information is available from Natural Resources Centre Kingscote and Flinders Chase Visitor Centre. Trekkers must discuss their route with a ranger prior to commencing a trek and we recommend you let a responsible person know of your plans. The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail Nature’s secrets are waiting to be discovered at every step of the 61 kilometre five-day trek, with the trail weaving its way through the most botanically unique area in all of South Australia before reaching the rugged, remote and spectacular coastline of the Southern Ocean. For more information visit kangarooislandwildernesstrail. sa.gov.au or contact the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre on (08) 8553 4410.

Parks of Kangaroo Island 25 Kangaroo Island map

INVIENSVTEIGSTAITGOARTOR STSRTARIATIT

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Sealed road DEWNR managed park NP National Park WPA Wilderness Protected Area Sealed road DEWNR managed park NP National Park WPA Wilderness Protected Area Unsealed road 2 Walking trail location CP Conservation Park Unsealed road 2 Walking trail location CP Conservation Park

26 Parks of Kangaroo Island INVESTIGATORINVESTIGATOR STRAIT STRAIT

Emu Emu Bay Bay

Busby Busby Cape Jervis Cape Jervis Islet CP Islet CP Beatrice Beatrice Talisker CP Talisker CP Islet CP Islet CP Lathami CP Lathami CP Kingscote Kingscote Deep Deep BA BA CK Creek CP CK Creek CP Western River WPA ST ST rn rn Western River WPA Cygnet Cygnet AI A etu etu Western Western RS IR s R R Estuary CP Estuary CP S Flinders Flindyers ys 27 27 P ve ve Cove Cove Penneshaw A PA ar rCape Cape PenSneshaw S Chase NP Chase NP a AY AY S S 24 26 H 24 26 H HW W 2 A 2 A Cape Borda Torrens WPA Torrens WPA HIG IGH G G 25Cape Borda H Baudin CP BEaudin CP E 25 D Nepean BDay CP Parndana CP Parndana CP A Nepean Bay CP H A H Ravine O O O O Ravine R G R G 1 American Eastern American des Casoars des Casoars YFORD RD 1 Eastern PLA PLAYFO 23 23 Parndana Parndana River Cove River Cove Antechamber Antechamber Lashmar CP Lashmar CP D Pelican Bay D Beyeria CP B Pelican Bay A A Beyeria CP B Y A K A N G A R O O I S L A N D Y A AD O A Y K A N G A R O O I S L A N D Lagoon CP Y RO AD R O A Lagoon CP RO W FR linders Cape Ravine des H W Flinders E Cape Ravine des G H R E I Seddon CP O R Willoughby CP H Chase NP IG Seddon CP Casoars WPA E Chase NP O Willoughby CP L Casoars WPA H M Dudley CP 3 E M K L H Dudley CP Cape 3 H Simpson CP Cape C K C D BIR Simpson CP West A C R C Willoughby D BI N West H A E Willoughby N S H Bay E 7 Bay S 6 T Murray 7 6 Lesueur CP S Cape E T Lagoon 5 Murray Lesueur CP S Cape Rocky River W Lagoon 5 Rocky River E Mount Gantheaume CP D'Estrees Bay 15 18 W Mount Gantheaume CP D'Estrees Bay 22 17 15 18 Taylor CP Snake 21 20 19 1262 17 Taylor CP Seal Bay CP 21 20 19 16 Lagoon FlindersSnake SOUTH 9 Seal Bay CP CO Lagoon Flinders ASOSTUTH 9 OAD Chase NP Kelly Hill CP RCOAST D Cape Maupertuis Chase NP Kelly Hill CP Vivonne ROA Cape 4 Maupertuis 8 Cape CaGpeantheaume CP 4 Cape Bay 8 Bay Vivonne Gantheaume WPA Bay Bouguer WPA Cape Seal Bay CP Gantheaume CP Bay Seal Bay CP Gantheaume WPA Hanson Bouguer WPA 10 14 Hanson Vivonne 13 Bay 10 14 Vivonne Cape du Couedic 11 13 Bay Bay CP 12 Remarkable1 1Rocks Bay CP Cape du Couedic Remarkable Rocks 0 20 Admirals 12 0 km 20 Arch Admirals km Arch SOUTHERN OCEAN SOUTHERN OCEAN

Parks of Kangaroo Island 27 Select your trail Trails Trail time Distance Highlights Trail notes Trail difficulty Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail 5 days 61 km Botanically unique area, rugged coastline Bush walking experience recommended. Moderate. 1. Beyeria Walk 30 minutes 1.5 km Endemic plants. Great for all ages. Easy

2. Ironstone Hill Hike 1.5 hours 4 km return European heritage, coastal views, wildlife. Some steep sections, two small creeks to cross in winter. Moderate 3. Cape Willoughby 1 hour 1.9 km Great views, European heritage site. Some sections rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate Lightstation Heritage Hike 4. Tadpole Cove Walk 20 minutes 800 m European heritage, coastal views, wildlife. Gently undulating, great for all ages. Easy 5. Timber Creek Walk 1 hour 1.5 km Wetland, wildlife. Can be slippery when wet, seasonally under water. Easy

6. Bald Hill Walk 30 minutes 1 km return Wetland, wildlife. Can be very windy, seasonally under water. Easy

7. Curley Creek Hike 4 hours 11 km return Wetland, wildlife, unexpected vegetation. Seasonally, parts under water, can be slippery. Moderate

8. Hanson Bay Hike full day 18 km return Lagoons, sand dunes, variety of vegetation. Note length of hike, some steep sandy sections. Hard 9. Burgess Hike (Mays Hike) 30 minutes 1.25 km Sugar Gum forest, orchids in winter and spring. Gently undulating, original cave entrance. Moderate (Easy)

10. Remarkable Rocks Walk 15 minutes 1 km return Remarkable Rocks, views of Cape du Couedic. Wheelchair accessible, all ages, observe the warning signs. Easy

11. Weirs Cove Hike 1 hour 3 km return Spectacular coastal views, history. Gently undulating. Moderate

12. Admirals Arch Walk 15 minutes 1 km return Admirals Arch, fur-seal colony, Casuarina Islets. Boardwalk leads to steps down to viewing platforms. Easy Coastal cliff top views, coastal plants and 13. Cape du Couedic Hike 40 minutes 2 km return Some steep sections, a little rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate shipwreck information.

14. Lighthouse Heritage Walk 10 minutes 600 m return Lighthouse, lightkeepers' cottages. Great for all ages. Easy

15. Platypus Waterholes Walk 2 hours 4.5 km return Wildlife, perhaps the elusive Platypus. Great for all ages. Easy Wildlife observation interpretation - what to 16. Discovery Walk 10 minutes 400 m return Great for all ages. Easy look for, how to get the best views.

17. Woodland Walk 20 minutes 1 km return Sugar Gum forest, birds and wildlife. Great for all ages. Easy

18. Heritage Walk 30 minutes 1.5 km return History, wildlife viewing including Koalas. Great for all ages. Easy

19. Black Swamp Hike 3 hours 9 km return River habitats, forest, woodland. A little rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate 20. Rocky River Hike 4.5 hours 12.2 km River habitats, forest, woodland. A little rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate

21. Snake Lagoon Hike 2 hours 4 km return River valley, spectacular views. Rocky and uneven underfoot after footbridge. Moderate

22. Sandy Creek Hike 1.5 hours 3 km return Southern Ocean’s rugged beauty. Last section on soft sand is very tiring. Moderate

23. Ravine Hike 3 hours 7 km return Spectacular views, river habitats, forest . Some steep sections, a little rocky and uneven underfoot. Hard

24. Clifftop Hike 30 minutes 1 km return Coastal views, remoteness. Rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate

25. Return Road Hike 3 hours 9 km return History, woodlands, coastal heath. Gently undulating, a little rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate

26. Harveys Return Hike 1 hour 1.5 km return History, geology, remoteness. Very steep below the capstan. Hard Spectacular views of a winter waterfall, 27. Waterfall Creek Hike 2 hours 5 km return Some steep sections, a little rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate sheoak and Sugar Gum forest.

28 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trails Trail time Distance Highlights Trail notes Trail difficulty Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail 5 days 61 km Botanically unique area, rugged coastline Bush walking experience recommended. Moderate. 1. Beyeria Walk 30 minutes 1.5 km Endemic plants. Great for all ages. Easy

2. Ironstone Hill Hike 1.5 hours 4 km return European heritage, coastal views, wildlife. Some steep sections, two small creeks to cross in winter. Moderate WALK HIKE HIKE TREK 3. Cape Willoughby ES ETE CEGIG 1 hour 1.9 km Great views, European heritage site. Some sections rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate Lightstation Heritage Hike een race tra me merate ncne me tee ncne n tance tra th me tabe r chren rrear race th rrear race th tee ncne 4. Tadpole Cove Walk 20 minutes 800 m European heritage, coastal views, wildlife. Gently undulating, great for all ages. Easy e neen bae e neen bae nmare tra rrear race th e 5. Timber Creek Walk 1 hour 1.5 km Wetland, wildlife. Can be slippery when wet, seasonally under water. Easy average level of fi tness average level of fi tness neen bae me hn eerence tabe r eerence 6. Bald Hill Walk 30 minutes 1 km return Wetland, wildlife. Can be very windy, seasonally under water. Easy aer th naatna 7. Curley Creek Hike 4 hours 11 km return Wetland, wildlife, unexpected vegetation. Seasonally, parts under water, can be slippery. Moderate high level of fi tness 8. Hanson Bay Hike full day 18 km return Lagoons, sand dunes, variety of vegetation. Note length of hike, some steep sandy sections. Hard 9. Burgess Hike (Mays Hike) 30 minutes 1.25 km Sugar Gum forest, orchids in winter and spring. Gently undulating, original cave entrance. Moderate (Easy)

10. Remarkable Rocks Walk 15 minutes 1 km return Remarkable Rocks, views of Cape du Couedic. Wheelchair accessible, all ages, observe the warning signs. Easy

11. Weirs Cove Hike 1 hour 3 km return Spectacular coastal views, history. Gently undulating. Moderate

12. Admirals Arch Walk 15 minutes 1 km return Admirals Arch, fur-seal colony, Casuarina Islets. Boardwalk leads to steps down to viewing platforms. EasyWALK HIKE HIKE TREK Coastal cliff top views, coastal plants and ES ETE CEGIG 13. Cape du Couedic Hike 40 minutes 2 km return Some steep sections, a little rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate shipwreck information. een race tra me merate ncne me tee ncne n tance tra th me tabe r chren rrear race th rrear race th tee ncne 14. Lighthouse Heritage Walk 10 minutes 600 m return Lighthouse, lightkeepers' cottages. Great for all ages. Easy e neen bae e neen bae nmare tra rrear race th e return 15. Platypus Waterholes Walk 2 hours 4.5 km Wildlife, perhaps the elusive Platypus. Great for all ages. Easy average level of fi tness average level of fi tness neen bae Wildlife observation interpretation - what to me hn eerence tabe r eerence 16. Discovery Walk 10 minutes 400 m return Great for all ages. Easy look for, how to get the best views. aer th naatna 17. Woodland Walk 20 minutes 1 km return Sugar Gum forest, birds and wildlife. Great for all ages. Easy high level of fi tness

18. Heritage Walk 30 minutes 1.5 km return History, wildlife viewing including Koalas. Great for all ages. Easy

21. Snake Lagoon Hike 2 hours 4 km return River valley, spectacular views. Rocky and uneven underfoot after footbridge. Moderate

22. Sandy Creek Hike 1.5 hours 3 km return Southern Ocean’s rugged beauty. Last section on soft sand is very tiring. Moderate WALK HIKE HIKE TREK 23. Ravine Hike 3 hours 7 km return Spectacular views, river habitats, forest . Some steep sections, a little rocky and uneven underfoot. Hard ES ETE CEGIG 24. Clifftop Hike 30 minutes 1 km return Coastal views, remoteness. Rocky and uneven underfoot. een race tra me merateModerate ncne me tee ncne n tance tra th me tee ncne 25. Return Road Hike 3 hours 9 km return History, woodlands, coastal heath. Gently undulating, a little tabe rocky r and chren uneven underfoot. rrearModerate race th rrear race th e neen bae e neen bae nmare tra rrear 26. Harveys Return Hike 1 hour 1.5 km return History, geology, remoteness. Very steep below the capstan. Hard race th e average level of fi tness average level of fi tness neen bae Spectacular views of a winter waterfall, me hn eerence tabe r eerence 27. Waterfall Creek Hike 2 hours 5 km return Some steep sections, a little rocky and uneven underfoot. Moderate sheoak and Sugar Gum forest. aer th naatna high level of fi tness

Parks of Kangaroo Island 29 Trail descriptions

1. Beyeria Walk

This walk is a delightful short stroll through Kangaroo Island Narrow-leaved Mallee with broombush understorey. Beyeria Conservation Park was named after the endemic Turpentine Bush, Beyeria subtecta. The walk has twenty interpretive signs along the way highlighting ‘The Many Faces of Mallee Scrub’. Access The walk begins at the car park adjoining Willsons Road.

Suitable for all ages.

Beyeria Walk

ROAD ONS WILLS

Beyeria Walk

BEYERIA CONSERVATION PARK

Walk 0 150 300 30 min return metres 1.5 km return

30 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

2. Ironstone Hill Hike

This hike follows the coast east of Penneshaw along a section of the original bullock track to Cape Willoughby and provides spectacular views across Backstairs Passage to the Fleurieu Peninsula. After climbing through regenerating sheoak vegetation, the hike leads to the ruins of Harry Bates’ cottage and a stone threshing floor on Ironstone Hill. The farming heritage of the area is interpreted on signs along the hike. Access Follow Frenchmans Terrace along the foreshore at Penneshaw to the car park at the start of Binneys Track.

Ironstone Hill Hike

Backstairs Passage Encounter Marine Park

Hog Bay

Hill Hike ne sto Iron ruin Penneshaw (Harry Bates Cottage) Ironstone B IN Hill N k BAUDIN e E e Y r S CONSERVATION C PARK

ruin ruin

k r o P

Dudley Peninsula

T R

0 250 500 A

C K metres Moderate Hike CAPE 1.5 hours return WILLO OAD UGHBY R 4 km return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 31 Trail descriptions

3. Cape Willoughby Lightstation Heritage Hike

This hike will take you into the sheltered gully of the early 1853 settlement. It will give you an insight into the early lightkeepers' lives and how their demanding routine and sense of isolation was heightened by the distance between their homes and the lighthouse.

A self guided walking trail brochure is available at the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse Visitor Centre. It gives information about the original lightstation settlement at points of interest along the trail. Access This return loop hike begins and ends at the visitor centre. Cape Willoughby Lightstation Heritage Hike

0 75 150 Moncrieff Bay metres

Encounter C Marine Park ap e W illoughby Lightst ati on H e r it a ge H ike

C CAPE WILLOUGHBY A P Cape E CONSERVATION PARK Willoughby

Southern WIL LOU GH AD Ocean BY RO

Dudley Peninsula Moderate Hike 1 hour return 1.9 km return

32 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

4. Tadpole Cove Walk

This walk combines unusual coastal scenery with early settlement heritage sites. The walk starts at an old grain threshing floor, used by early settlers to process locally grown grain, and takes you past the ruins of a small cottage dating from the same period. The walk then meanders through regenerating vegetation to a lookout above Tadpole Cove, which is named after an unusual rock formation in the centre of the cove. Watch for ospreys soaring along the cliff edge as they hunt for fish in the calm waters of the cove. Access The walk begins in the car park adjacent to the threshing floor just south of Wreckers Beach, D’Estrees Bay Road. Tadpole Cove Walk

Wreckers Beach Southern Campsite Kangaroo Island Marine Park D

CAPE GANTHEAUME O

R CONSERVATION PARK

Y A B

S Tadpole EE R Cove Walk ST 'E D Southern Ocean Big Sand Dune Campsite

0 50 100 Walk metres 20 min return 800 m return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 33 Trail descriptions

5. Timber Creek Walk This walk at Murray Lagoon offers the visitor a tea-tree swamp experience. Waterfowl such as ducks, swans and waders flock to the lagoon to create a bird-lovers delight. Hawks and eagles prey upon the waterfowl, while chats and little grassbirds sing among the thickly vegetated shorelines. During drought years and late in the summer the best views of Murray Lagoon can be seen from the Bald Hill (6) and Curly Creek (7) trails. Access The walk begins 500 metres west of Murray Lagoon park headquarters off Seagers Road, which can be seasonally flooded. Note: walking trail subjectTim tob floodinger Cre eink winter Wal months.k

k e e r C

Bald Hill S EA er Walk GE b RS m Ti R OAD ruins

lk a W k ee Cr campsite r e

T CAPE GANTHEAUME CONSERVATION PARK

Walk 0 150 300 1 hour return metres 1.5 km return

34 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

6. Bald Hill Walk Bald Hill provides spectacular views overlooking Murray Lagoon and is an ideal spot to observe a variety of wetland birds as they feed from the lagoon below. In the distance the visitor can see the dense bush and impressive sand-dunes of the Cape Gantheaume Wilderness Protection Area to the south. Access Bald Hill can be accessed via the Bald Hill Walk from Seagers Road, 2 km from Murray Lagoon park headquarters, Cape Gantheaume Conservation Park. Bald Hill can also be accessed via the Curley Creek Hike from Curley Creek, 6 km from the headquarters or 4 km from the South Coast Road off Seagers Road. BNote:ald walking Hill W trailal ksubject to flooding in winter months.

COAST TH ROAD SOU

C u r le y

SEAGERS ROAD C re ek

k e e r Hike C Curley Cr ee k S EA er GE b RS m Ti R Bald Hill OAD Walk

campsite CAPE GANTHEAUME CAPE GANTHEAUME CONSERVATION PARK CONSERVATION PARK

Murray Lagoon 0 500 1,000 Walk metres 30 min return 1 km return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 35 Trail descriptions

7. Curley Creek Hike This hike follows an old fire access track which skirts the edge of Murray Lagoon. Walkers will not only discover a large range of birdlife but also a variety of vegetation communities. Bald Hill provides spectacular views overlooking Murray Lagoon and is an ideal spot to observe migratory waders as they feed from the lagoon below. Access The Curley Creek Hike begins at Curley Creek, 6 km from the Murray Lagoon park office or 4 km from the South Coast Road off Seagers Road. The Curley Creek Hike can also be accessed via the Bald Hill Walk, 2 km from the Murray Lagoon park office. Access to the trail can be subject to seasonal flooding.

Note: walking trail subjectCu rtole floodingy Cree ink winterHike months.

COAST TH ROAD SOU

C u r le y

SEAGERS ROAD C re ek

k e e r Hike C Curley Cr ee k S EA er GE b RS m Ti R Bald Hill OAD Walk

campsite CAPE GANTHEAUME CAPE GANTHEAUME CONSERVATION PARK CONSERVATION PARK

Murray Moderate Lagoon Hike 0 500 1,000 4 hours return metres 11 km return

36 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

8. Hanson Bay Hike

This spectacular trail meanders from Kelly Hill Visitor Centre to Hanson Bay. It passes through banksia heath, Pink Gum woodlands, mallee and coastal heath, alongside freshwater lagoons, and over dunes to viewpoints that provide wonderful vistas inland and along the coast. Hike goes through Cape Bouguer Wilderness Protection Area. Allow a full day for the return trip or try to arrange a pick-up. This is day five of the Kangaroo Island Wildnerness Trail. Access This hike begins at Kelly Hill Visitor Centre. Hanson Bay Hike

ROAD ST UTH COA SO Kelly G R Burgess Hike Hill A S S Caves D and Mays Hike A L E H

A KELLY HILL

S CONSERVATION PARK O

o u

t h O

- A W D

e ke

s i

t H

e r

Bay nson R Ha

D CAPE BOUGUER WILDERNESS PROTECTION AREA

0 500 1,000 Hard Hike Hanson Bay metres full day return 18 km return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 37 Trail descriptions

9. Burgess Hike (incorporating Mays Hike)

This hike passes through the Sugar Gum forest at Kelly Hill Caves and introduces visitors to the surface features associated with the caves below, including the original cave entrance. If you are taking a guided tour of the Show Cave, this trail provides an interesting alternative route to or from the Show Cave entrance. In spring the wildflowers are a treat, but in winter a diversity of colour Access Both trails begin at the Kelly Hill Visitor Centre. Burgess Hike and Mays Hike

SOUTH COAST ROAD

Kelly Hill Visitor Centre H a e ro ik ld H M B el a l P ss y a ge s th r Bu H i k e Kelly Hill Caves

Bu e rg ik ess H

KELLY HILL CONSERVATION PARK

Moderate Hanson Hike 0 75 150 Bay Hike 30 min return metres 1.25 km return

38 Parks of Kangaroo Island KELLY HILL CONSERVATION PARK Trail descriptions

10. Remarkable Rocks Walk Follow this wheelchair accessible trail to the stunning geological feature of Remarkable Rocks. The wind-sculpted rocks can be seen as artworks in progress – a 500 million year old story of change. Interpretive signs explain the formation of the granite boulders. Drownings have occurred at Remarkable Rocks. Please read the warning signs. For safety reasons access to the seaward side of the granite dome is prohibited. Access The walk starts at the Remarkable Rocks car park, 16 kms from the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre. The recreational use of drones is generally not permitted in national parks and reserves, including for photography and filming. Remarkable Rocks Walk

B OX ER

0 50 100 D RIV E metres

FLINDERS CHASE NATIONAL PARK

Remarkable Rocks Walk

Remarkable Rocks

Southern Ocean Walk Western Kangaroo Island Kirkpatrick 15 min return Marine Park Point 1 km return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 39 Trail descriptions

11. Weirs Cove Hike

Imagine spending three months or more waiting for fresh supplies. Hike to Weirs Cove to understand the extreme hardship for lightkeepers involved in getting the shopping home. Discover the method of landing people and supplies along this treacherous coastline. Access Begin this hike at the lighthouse sign shelter, at Cape du Couedic.

Weirs Cove Hike

Maupertuis A

O Bay R Weirs C DI Cove UE CO FLINDERS CHASE U NATIONAL PARK D WEIRS Hike ruin COVE E e P Cov TRACK CA

s ir e W

Cape Du Western Kangaroo Island Couedic Marine Park Hike

Southern Ocean Moderate 0 125 250 Hike metres 1 hour return Cape Admirals Arch 3 km return Du Couedic

40 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

R 12. Admirals Arch Walk C Follow the signs to the boardwalk and ponder on the eventual creation of the thirdDI UE Casuarina Islet. Allow plenty of time to enjoy the frolicking long-nosed fur-seals.CO Learn about their remarkable recovery from the uncontrolled hunting of the early 1800s. Interpretive signs tell the story of seals, marine park coastal habitats and the other wildlife that call this rugged coastline home. DU Access WEIRS COVE The walk begins at the Admirals Arch car park at Cape du Couedic, situated PE Cove TRACK on the south-west corner of Flinders ChaseCA National Park. Lighthouse Admirals Arch WaHlekritage Walk Weirs Cove Hike

FLINDERS CHASE NATIONAL PARK

Cape Du Western Kangaroo Island Couedic Hike Marine Park

Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park

Admirals Arch Walk

Admirals Arch Southern 0 75 150 Ocean Walk metres Cape du Couedic 15 min return 1 km return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 41 Trail descriptions

13. Cape du Couedic Hike

This hike provides spectacular coastal cliff top views as it meanders between the Cape du Couedic Lightstation and Admirals Arch car park. Discover the varied and impressive techniques that plants use to grow here. Find out about Aboriginal connections with Cape du Couedic and how they survived in this harsh environment. Contemplate the perils of being shipwrecked here 110 years ago. Look for the water pool built by the lighthouse builders and watch for those who still use it today. Access FLINDERS CHASE This hike begins at the lighthouse sign shelter.NA TIONAL PARK Cape du Couedic Hike WEIRS COVE to Flinders Chase Cove Visitor Centre TRACK

ke ve Hi Co s r i e W

Cap e du C o u e d i

H e

FLINDERS CHASE k i i

k e

NATIONAL PARK H

i d e u Western Kangaroo Island

o C

u Western Marine Park

e Kangaroo Island p

a Marine Park C

Admirals Arch Moderate Walk Hike 0 75 150

40 min return metres 2 km return

Admirals Arch Southern 42 Parks of Kangaroo Island Ocean Cape du Couedic Trail descriptions

14. Lighthouse Heritage Walk

Take a stroll around the Cape du Couedic Lightstation and immerse yourself in history. Marvel at the magnificence of the tower, the endurance of the lightkeepers and their families, and learn about ‘Life on the Edge’ from signs along the trail. Access Follow the signs from the lighthouse sign shelter to begin this walk.

Lighthouse Heritage Walk

to Flinders Chase Visitor Centre

AD RO FLINDERS CHASE EIRS W COVE Hike NATIONAL PARK IC TRACK ED U O C e Hik e v o irs C DU We

E P A C

Lighthouse Heritage Walk

Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park

Cape Du Couedic Southern Hike Ocean 0 75 150 Walk metres 10 min return 600 m return Southern Admirals Arch Parks of Kangaroo Island 43 Walk Ocean Trail descriptions

15. Platypus Waterholes Walk

Walk from the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre across the Black Swamp to the Rocky River, where patience may be rewarded with the sighting of a platypus. Allow time to view the waterholes from a series of platforms. Interpretive signs provide stories about megafauna, wildlife and fire. A multitude of birdlife, kangaroos, wallabies, geese, echidnas and goannas are regularly seen on this walk. Access This walk begins at the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre. A shorter walk (suitable for wheelchairs) to the waterholes can be accessed from a car park off Shackle Road. Please note, there are no toilet facilities at Platypus Waterholes car park. Platypus Waterholes Walk 1 Callitris Platform to car park 2 Exocarpos Platform Ro 3 Deep Pool Platform cky 4 Bridge Platform 4 5 Reflection Pool R ive Quiet zone 3 2 r 6 Melaleuca Lookout 1 Platypus 7 Birdsong Platform 8 Seasons Pool er 5 iv Waterholes Quiet zone R er Walk iv R y 8 6 k c o R y k P c la 7 o Swamp t 0 50 100 R k y c p a H l u metres i B k s e to Visitor W a Centre t e r FLINDERS CHASE h o NATIONAL PARK l e s R o W c k a OAD l IC R y k ED

R U

i O

v C

e r U D

H E P

i A

k C e Swamp Hik ck e la B 0 200 400

metres WEST BAY Walk RD Flinders Chase 2 hours return Visitor Centre 4.5 km return

44 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

16. Discovery Walk

This short walk will take you from the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre to the Walking Trail Information Shelter overlooking Black Swamp. Interpretive signs along the way will help hone your wildlife observation skills.

Signs at the Black Swamp Lookout shelter give information about other hikes and walks accessed from here. Access This walk leaves from and returns to the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre.

Discovery Walk

Black Swamp Hike

Platypus Heritage Walk Waterholes Walk

Discovery Walk FLINDERS CHASE NATIONAL PARK Flinders Chase W Visitor Centre o od la nd

W Visitor Centre E W S a RD T lk car park Flinders Chase

O B A R

Y Visitor Centre

O C

R U 0 50 100

O Walk D A D E

P metres 10 min return A

C 400 m return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 45 Trail descriptions

17. Woodland Walk

This is a sheltered stroll through sugar gum woodlands and acacia thickets. The trail connects the Visitor Centre to the Rocky River Campground and day visitor facilities. Listen for woodland birds along the way. Access This walk leaves from and returns to the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre.

Woodland Walk

Black Swamp Hike Heritage Walk Platypus Waterholes Walk

lk Wa and oodl W FLINDERS CHASE NATIONAL PARK Discovery Walk Flinders Chase Visitor Centre

IC ROA D D E U O W W C E oo S d k T la l nd a U W D

P B A A Y C

R Walk O 0 50 100 A D 20 minutes metres 1 km return

46 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

18. Heritage Walk

Learn about our cultural heritage from the life of early settlers at Rocky River to our role as an island sanctuary for threatened species. A great walk for viewing koalas and other wildlife. An easy and enjoyable walk for people of all ages. Access This walk leaves from and returns to the Flinders Chase Visitor Centre.

Heritage Walk

e ik H r e iv R ky c o

R k

a W

e h k r i e H t a D p m W A k Swa O c s Bla Heritage R u p y Walk

a l

C I D FLINDERS CHASE E U

O NATIONAL PARK C Discovery Walk

U D W Flinders Chase o CAPE od Visitor Centre la nd

W alk 0 50 100 Walk metres 30 minutes 1.5 km return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 47 Trail descriptions

19. Black Swamp Hike

Linked with the Platypus Waterholes Walk, this half-day hike takes you through the diverse habitats of the Rocky River. The trail meanders through forest and woodland, providing picturesque views of the river and opportunities to watch for Platypus. Listen for honeyeaters in the forest canopy, and look for delicate orchids and colourful fungi in winter and spring. Access This hike starts at Flinders Chase Visitor Centre and includes the Platypus Waterholes Walk. Alternatively, the trail can be started from Rocky River Bridge on West Bay Road, or the Platypus Waterholes car park off Shackle Road. Black Swamp Hike

Ro cky

r R e ive iv r R

Platypus Waterholes E B KL l Walk AC a SH y c k k c o R S R w o c e a k H i k m y p p R i m v a e w r S H

k H c i a k

l i

B e e

e FLINDERS CHASE NATIONAL PARK k Hi ver Ri e y Hik ck o R p Flinders Chase am Sw Visitor Centre ROAD k Blac Y BA WEST

Moderate Hike 0 250 500

3 hours return metres 9 km return

48 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

20. Rocky River Hike

Follow the pristine Rocky River through to Snake Lagoon. Experience the riparian (river bank) communities, low woodlands and open forests. Even in the drier months spring-fed pools provide life giving water to birds, reptiles, insects and mammals.

This trail is the first section of the five day Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Allow extra time if following the trail back to the visitor centre. Access This hike starts at Flinders Chase Visitor Centre and includes the Platypus Waterholes Walk. Alternatively, the trail can be started from Rocky River Bridge on West Bay Road, orRo theck Platypusy Rive Waterholesr Hike car park off Shackle Road.

RAVINE DES CASOARS WILDERNESS PROTECTION AREA

D A er O R v ock R Ri y R iv ive er R r y k H c LE o y i K R k k AC c e SH o WEST R BAY

RO AD ke River Hi Snake Rocky Lagoon Flinders Chase River FLINDERS CHASE Visitor Centre y Snake k c NATIONAL PARK o Lagoon R Hike

Maupertuis Moderate Bay Hike Western 0 500 1,000 4.5 hours Kangaroo Island metres 12.2 km Marine Park not return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 49 Trail descriptions

21. Snake Lagoon Hike

Starting at Snake Lagoon campground, this popular trail winds through Sugar Gums and mallee before descending into the Rocky River valley. The trail crosses Rocky River and meanders along its bank to the mouth, providing spectacular views through the valley and across the Southern Ocean. Access Snake Lagoon is located 9 km from Flinders Chase Visitor Centre off the West Bay Road.

Snake Lagoon Hike

ROAD

BAY D WEST A O

N O O G A L e E ik K H A r N ve S Ri Snake Lagoon Snake Rocky Campground Lagoon

FLINDERS CHASE r

Snake e v

NATIONAL PARK i

Lagoon R Hike Rocky

Moderate Maupertuis Bay 0 250 500 Hike Western Kangaroo Island metres 2 hours return Marine Park 4 km return

50 Parks of Kangaroo Island Maupertuis Bay Trail descriptions

22. Sandy Creek Hike

Follow the bank of Sandy Creek before descending into the creek bed for the last section through sand dunes and onto a large sandy beach. Here time can be forgotten while relaxing and watching the Southern Ocean pound against the shore. Access This hike begins on West Bay Road approximately 10 km from Flinders Chase Visitor Centre.

Sandy Creek Hike

W E ST BAY

RO EST AD W

r e

e v i k R i

FLINDERS CHASE NATIONAL PARK

y k nd e a re Snake Lagoon S C Campground

dy n Sa

Sandy Maupertuis Beach 0 250 500 Bay metres

Western Moderate Kangaroo Island Hike Marine Park 1.5 hours return 3 km return

Parks of Kangaroo Island 51 Maupertuis Bay Trail descriptions

23. Ravine Hike

This trail follows the ravine valley to the coast, passing along the creek bank and high above the valley floor, providing spectacular views. The French explorer, Nicolas Baudin, observed the Kangaroo Island Dwarf Emu here in 1802, mistakenly identifying them as Cassowary. Tragically, the Kangaroo Island Dwarf Emu became extinct at least ten years before the first official settlement in 1836. Access The hike begins on the Ravine des Casoars Road, 7 km south of the Playford Highway, near Cape Borda Lightstation.

Ravine Hike

RAVINE DES CASOARS Western WILDERNESS PROTECTION AREA D Kangaroo ROA Island

Marine E

Ravine Hike N Park I

R V

avine A R des Caso ars

Hard Hike 0 500 1,000 3 hours return metres 7 km return

52 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

24. Clifftop Hike

This short trail is the perfect complement to a guided tour at Cape Borda Lightstation. Meander through the picturesque rock gardens, and observe how the vegetation shortens and changes as you near the cliff top. A stone lookout provides an ideal vantage point for spotting whales and dolphins. Access This trail starts at Cape Borda Lightstation.

Clifftop Hike

Investigator Strait

Southern Western Kangaroo Island Southern Ocean Marine Park Ocean

ke Hi

Clifftop ad AD Ro RO Hike rn Retu DA Cape Borda BOR CAPE FLINDERS CHASE radio NATIONAL PARK mast

Moderate RAVINE DES CASOARS 0 250 500 Hike WILDERNESS PROTECTION AREA metres 30 min return 1 km return RAVINE DES CASOARS WILDERNESS PROTParksEC Tof IKangarooON AIslandRE 53A Trail descriptions

25. Return Road Hike

Starting at Harveys Return this hike wanders through low Sugar Gum woodland, passing groves of native pine near the Lightkeepers Cemetery. Take a side trip when you cross the road to view the spectacular coastline at Scott Cove. The hike follows the lightkeepers’ old cart track used for transporting supplies between Harveys Return and Cape Borda, which they called ‘The Return Road’. Look for cobblestones which indicate the alignment of the original track. Access This hike can begin at either Harveys Return or Cape Borda Lightstation.

Return Road Hike

Investigator Strait

Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park

Harveys Southern Scott Return Ocean Cove Road Hike Harveys urn E cem Return Hike Ret CAP BORDA AD Cape R RO A V I Harveys Borda FLINDERS CHASE N E NATIONAL PARK Return Campground

R O A RAVINE DES CASOARS D WILDERNESS PROTECTION AREA

Moderate Hike 0 500 1,000 3 hours return metres 9 km return

54 Parks of Kangaroo Island Trail descriptions

26. Harveys Return Hike

This short hike follows the original route used by the Cape Borda Lightkeepers who hauled their stores up from Harveys Return using a horse and capstan (horse-drawn winch), and small rail cars. For geology enthusiasts, there are spectacular outcrops of tightly folded, thinly bedded schists. Below the capstan, the trail is very steep, so walkers should descend carefully. Access The trail begins at the Harveys Return Campground on the Playford Highway.

Harveys Return Hike

Investigator Strait

Western Kangaroo Island Scott Marine Park Harveys Cove Return

RAVINE DES CASOARS Harveys Return WILDERNESS Hike PROTECTION AREA

ad Hike n Ro Harveys Return tur Re Campground

CAPE B OR DA

RO AD R 0 100 200 Hard Hike

A metres 1 hour return 1.5 km return V I Parks of Kangaroo Island 55 N Harveys E Return Campground

R O

A D Trail descriptions

27. Waterfall Creek Hike

Follow the trail from the car park down the valley to the creek. Stepping stones lead you up a small winding trail through sheoak trees, to a lookout with spectacular views of a winter waterfall. The sheoaks provide a valuable food source for the elusive, endangered Glossy Black-Cockatoo. The waterfall generally dries up in the summer months. Access This hike begins in the car park in the Western River Wilderness Protection Area, off Colmans Road.

Waterfall Creek Hike

W a te r fa ll

C re ek

W a

l l

WESTERN RIVER WILDERNESS PROTECTION AREA

r e

H i k e

ROAD S N A Moderate LM CO Hike 0 250 500

2 hours return metres 5 km return

56 Parks of Kangaroo Island Marine Parks

The coastal waters of Kangaroo Island have considerable conservation significance and are recognised as being among the most biologically diverse of any along the southern Australian coastline.

There are a great variety of habitats and conditions, from southern and western coasts battered by Southern Ocean swells and dominated by inshore rocky reef systems to the sheltered northeast where protected bays harbour seagrass meadows and soft bottom communities.

There are 25 estuaries around KI with a mixture of saltmarsh, mudflat and seagrass communities. Fifteen of these estuaries are listed as wetlands of national significance.

Kangaroo Island’s pristine waters are home to a diverse and important range of marine life. These areas also support the local economy through tourism, aquaculture and commercial fishing. Their importance has been recognised through the creation of four Marine Parks that ensure increased protection to approximately two-thirds of the island’s waters.

Dolphins, photo: KI Marine Adventures Parks of Kangaroo Island 57 Kangaroo Island’s Marine Parks

DEWNR managed park Sanctuary INVESTIGATOR STRAIT Zone Marine Park Southern Spencer Gulf Emu Marine Park Bay Marine Park - Sanctuary Zone Stokes Encounter Marine Park Bay Sanctuary Snelling Cape Jervis Western River Zone Sanctuary Beach Cove Zone Kingscote BA CK ST Sanctuary AI Western RS Zone Cove PA Penneshaw S Y S WA A IGH G Cape Borda H E D A H Sanctuary O O Ravine R G American Zone Western RD Eastern des Casoars PLAYFO Kangaroo Map from PSimonarndana to come River Cove Antechamber

Island D B Bay A A Y K A N G A R O O I S L A N D Y AD Marine O A Sanctuary RO R W H E Park G R Zone I O H E L M K H Cape C C D BIR West A Willoughby N H E Bay S T S E Rocky River W D'Estrees Bay

SOUTH COAST D ROA Maupertuis Vivonne Bay Bay Hanson Sanctuary Bay Zone Cape du Couedic Remarkable Rocks

Sanctuary Southern Zone Kangaroo Island 0 20 km Marine Park Western SOUTHERN OCEAN Kangaroo Island Marine Park

58 Parks of Kangaroo Island DEWNR managed park Sanctuary INVESTIGATOR STRAIT Zone Marine Park Southern Spencer Gulf Emu Marine Park Bay Marine Park - Sanctuary Zone Stokes Encounter Marine Park Bay Sanctuary Snelling Cape Jervis Western River Zone Sanctuary Beach Cove Zone Kingscote BA CK ST Sanctuary AI Western RS Zone Cove PA Penneshaw S Y S WA A IGH G Cape Borda H E D A H Sanctuary O O Ravine R G American Zone Western RD Eastern des Casoars PLAYFO Kangaroo Map from PSimonarndana to come River Cove Antechamber

Island D B Bay A A Y K A N G A R O O I S L A N D Y AD Marine O A Sanctuary RO R W H E Park G R Zone I O H E L M K H Cape C C D BIR West A Willoughby N H E Bay S T S E Rocky River W D'Estrees Bay

SOUTH COAST D ROA Maupertuis Vivonne Bay Bay Hanson Sanctuary Bay Zone Cape du Couedic Remarkable Rocks

Sanctuary Southern Zone Kangaroo Island 0 20 km Marine Park Western SOUTHERN OCEAN Kangaroo Island Marine Park

Parks of Kangaroo Island 59 Marine Parks

Encounter Marine Park

The Encounter Marine Park covers an area of approximately 3,119 km2 and encompasses the waters off southern metropolitan Adelaide and the Fleurieu Peninsula, extending past the Murray Mouth to the Coorong coast. At its western boundary, the Marine Park includes all waters of Backstairs Passage and the north eastern shores of Kangaroo Island. The Encounter Marine Park contains a diverse range of habitats: high energy sandy beaches and dune systems; coastal cliffs and rocky headlands; intertidal, shallow and deep-water limestone and granite reefs; islands, sheltered bays, estuaries and saltmarshes; seagrass meadows, sandy seafloors and deep-water trenches. For more information on the wildlife and diversity of species in this particular area, please visit the website: www.environment.sa.gov.au/marineparks. There are eleven Sanctuary Zones in the Encounter Marine Park, three of them in the waters off Kangaroo Island:

Pelican Lagoon Sanctuary Zone This regionally unique coastal lagoon contains shallow sponge beds, tidal channels and key nursery areas for a variety of fish. It is the oldest protected aquatic area in South Australia and has been a ‘no-take’ reserve since 1971.

Sponge Gardens Sanctuary Zone One of only two known deep sea trenches in SA waters with powerful tidal flows that provide nutrients for large, deep water sponges. Closer to shore there are spectacular walls of subtidal rocky reef, fantastic for diving.

Bay of Shoals Sanctuary Zone The seagrass meadows of Bay of Shoals provide a highly important nursery area for a wide range of marine animals including commercially valuable fish species, while the tidal flats provide an important feeding area for local and migratory birds. The sanctuary zone also includes Busby Islet, which is recognised as a Wetland of National Importance and an important location for numerous sea and shorebirds.

60 Parks of Kangaroo Island Marine Parks

Southern Kangaroo Island Marine Park

Covering 673 km2 the Southern Kangaroo Island Marine Park abuts the southern coast of Kangaroo Island between D'Estrees Bay and the western end of Seal Bay Conservation Park. Offshore, it also includes North Rock, Young Rocks and South West Rock.

This region of Kangaroo Island is fully exposed to the strong winds and large swells of the Southern Ocean that have shaped its rugged coastline over thousands of years. Exposed cliffs, rocky headlands and wave-cut shore platforms dominate the park with high energy sandy beaches and dunes at Seal Bay and Bales Beach. Fringing and deep-water reefs are interspersed by sandy seafloor whilst the slightly more sheltered waters of D’Estrees Bay support the only significant seagrass bed on the south coast of the island.

There is only one Sanctuary Zone within Southern Kangaroo Island MP:

Seal Bay Sanctuary Zone Seal Bay is one of the State’s most important breeding sites for Australian Sea-lions. The sanctuary zone for Seal Bay and Bales Bay has been extended to further protect key feeding areas for mothers and pups. It also provides increased protection of foraging grounds for ospreys, white-bellied sea eagles and white-faced storm petrels that nest in the area.

Leafy seadragon (Phycodurus eques) Parks of Kangaroo Island 61 Marine Parks

Southern Spencer Gulf Marine Park

The Southern Spencer Gulf Marine Park covers 2,972 km2 and extends around the western tip of Yorke Peninsula and across to the central north coast of Kangaroo Island.

Out in Investigator Strait, waters are up to 50 metres deep and include deeper water seagrass meadows and sandy seafloor habitats. The north coast of Kangaroo Island comprises exposed cliffs and headlands fronted by high energy intertidal reefs and rocky shore platforms, occasionally interspersed with small sandy or boulder beaches. Small, scattered seagrass meadows can also be found in some of the sheltered areas along the coast.

One of the three sanctuary zones within Southern Spencer Gulf Marine Park is located off Kangaroo Island:

Waterfall Creek Sanctuary Zone This small, 1 km2 area joins on to the Western River Wilderness Protection Area and protects the area where Waterfall Creek and Billy Goat Creek flow out into the sea. The spectacular coastline here is dominated by high cliffs with rocky shorelines and boulder beaches, while the rocky reefs support a wide range of resident reef fish.

62 Parks of Kangaroo Island Tasmanian blenny (Parablennius tasmanianus) Marine Parks

Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park

The Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park covers 1,020 km2 and is situated between Cape Forbin and Sanderson Bay, and includes the Casuarina Islets and Lipson Reef.

The southern and western coasts of the park are highly exposed to strong winds and large swells and experience seasonal nutrient-rich upwellings. The park’s shoreline is dominated by rugged, exposed cliffs and headlands interspersed by pocket beaches. Reefs extend from intertidal wave-cut shore platforms along most of the coastline and transition to sandy seafloor habitats in deeper waters.

Two of the sanctuary zones within the Western Kangaroo Island Marine Park are located off Kangaroo Island:

Cape du Couedic Sanctuary Zone

The seasonal upwelling in this region creates a nutrient-rich environment which strongly influences the food webs within this Marine Park. The result is highly productive waters close to shore, making this an attractive location for seabirds, fur seals, sharks and other predatory fish. Famous as a breeding site for long-nosed fur seals, Cape du Couedic is also the only known breeding site in South Australia for the lesser known Australian fur seal. Cape Borda Sanctuary Zone Joining on to the Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area and Cape Torrens Wilderness Protection Area, this significant stretch of remote coastline contains some of the tallest cliffs in South Australia and nesting sites for coastal raptors. While the near-shore reef is known to provide habitat for site-attached fish including western blue groper, harlequin fish, and western blue devils, within 2 km of the shore the sea floor can be as much as 80 metres below sea level.

Tasmanian blenny (Parablennius tasmanianus) Parks of Kangaroo Island 63 Self-guided drives

D'Estrees Bay, Shackle Road, Cape Gantheaume CP Flinders Chase NP This self-guided nature drive begins at This self-guided nature drive on the the second boat ramp seven kilometres rugged western end of Kangaroo Island from the junction of Elsegood Road and will take you from Flinders Chase Visitor D’Estrees Bay Road. It will take you to the Centre to Cape Borda Lightstation,when end of D’Estrees Bay Road adjacent to open, (or vice versa) via Shackle Road and Sewer Beach. The drive is approximately Playford Highway. Allow at least two eight kilometres in length. The trail hours to complete the drive or a full symbol of an Osprey and the stop number day to really explore. mark designated stops at points of To gain a better understanding of the interest along the drive. In 1803 natural history of the Flinders Chase the French explorer Nicolas Baudin National Park and Ravine des Casoars circumnavigated Kangaroo Island. Wilderness Protection Area, follow the He named this long, sweeping bay map in this guide. The trail symbol of a after Jacques D’Estrees (1660–1737), Yacca bush and the stop number, mark a French author, Marshall of France, designated stops and points of interest Vice-Admiral and Minister of State. along the drive.

Flinders Chase National Park Shackle Road self-guided drive Guides available for purchase from Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Centre Kingscote or Flinders Chase visitor National Park centre.

64 Parks of Kangaroo Island Park notes

Beware... deadly phytophthora cinnamon fungus Phytophthora (pronounced fy-TOFF-thora) species are soil and waterborne fungi that cause disease and often death to a wide variety of native plant species, exotic fruits and vegetables. The most common species is Phytophthora cinnamomi which is also referred to as Pc.

Phytophthora attacks the roots and stems of plants. Early symptoms of the disease are root-rot, and depending on the plant species, stem rot and eventual death. Susceptible plants die from an inability to take up sufficient water and nutrients. The first symptoms of infection are the yellowing of the foliage followed by dieback of the entire plant.

You can help stop the spread of Phytophthora on Kangaroo Island by preventing the transfer of infested soil or plant material please:

• avoid driving, riding or walking in areas when soils are wet and sticky.

• brush soil off vehicles, bikes, boots and camp gear before and after each trip.

• stay on designated roads, tracks and trails.

• obey ‘Road Closed’ signs.

• use wash down or hygiene stations when provided.

Hygiene station Parks of Kangaroo Island 65 Park notes

The National Parks code Help protect your national parks • Keep our wildlife wild. by following these guidelines: Do not feed or disturb animals, or remove native plants. • Leave your pets at home. • Keep to defined vehicle • Take your rubbish with you. tracks and walking trails. • Wood fires permitted only where • Be considerate of other park users. designated. Gas fires elsewhere. • Help prevent the spread of the No fires on declared Total Fire Ban deadly cinnamon fungus; please Days (the CFS broadcasts notices comply with walking trailhead on local radio 891 ABC (AM) instructions. and 765 5CC (AM) or check • No drones are permitted in any CFS hotline 1300 362 361). Park withour permission. • Camp only in designated areas. Thank you for leaving the • Respect geological bush in its natural state for and heritage sites. the enjoyment of others.

66 Parks of Kangaroo Island West Bay Wildlife notes Slow down for Wildlife watching guidelines native wildlife Always remember:

Kangaroo Island is refuge to an abundant • Stay on the trail. array of native wildlife. Unfortunately too many are killed on the roads. • Put the animals’ welfare first.

Please reduce your speed because: • Move slowly and quietly.

• Echidnas are slow moving animals. • Observe from a distance.

• Goannas need to bask in the sun • Use binoculars for that close-up look. before becoming active. For your safety

• Nocturnal animals are active at night. All native animals in national and conservation parks and conservation • Your headlights can dazzle reserves are wild and should be observed nocturnal animals. and photographed from a distance. This minimises disturbance to the animal Please don’t feed and allows you to observe many of the the wildlife natural behaviours exhibited by native animals in the wild. Please don’t feed the wildlife – let them fend for themselves because: • Human food may be poisonous to wildlife. It can seriously disrupt their digestive systems.

• Feeding changes natural behaviour patterns which are essential for survival in the bush.

• Feeding can cause dangerous situations when animals become aggressive and cause injury.

• Keep our wildlife healthy.

West Bay Cape Barren Goose Parks of Kangaroo Island 67 Bushfire safety for travellers Bushfires can occur without warning On Total Fire Ban days and can quickly impact your travel route. On Total Fire Ban days, it is best to In South Australia, bushfires occur regularly. postpone a trip into the bush, since Being out on the road during a bushfire the dangers of fires starting and moving is extremely dangerous – last minute rapidly are extremely high. Think about evacuations are a life-threatening option. what you will do on those days: obey Fire danger ratings fire bans, avoid activities that could start a fire (such as driving through long grass, Every day during the Fire Danger Season, campfires), and avoid activities that can weather and other factors are used to place you in areas of high risk. calculate Fire Danger Ratings for each District. These ratings are not predictors of For your safety how likely a bushfire is to occur, but how Go to www.cfs.sa.gov.au dangerous it could be if it did occur. Monitor ABC Radio 891 (AM) Total Fire Bans Contact Bushfire Information Hotline The CFS may declare Total Fire Bans 1300 362 361 (TTY 133677) on days of severe weather, when high Seek advice from the Natural Resource temperatures, strong winds and low Centre, Kingscote 85534444 humidity could cause fires to become To report a fire, dial 000. uncontrollable. Certain activities like Bushwalking barbeques and camp fires are banned on these days. It is advisable not to go bushwalking on Total Fire Ban days, but if you are caught Do you know what you can and in a bushfire you should: can’t do on Total Fire Ban days? • Never try to outrun the flames. • Head for a natural fire break, e.g. streams, clearings or rock outcrops. • Keep away from high ground in the path of the fire. • Never shelter in an above ground water tank or dam. • Cover yourself or shelter behind a solid object such as a rock, to protect yourself against radiant heat.

68 Parks of Kangaroo Island DANGER RATING WHAT SHOULD I DO?

You need to act now These are the worst conditions for a bushfire Fires can threaten – if a fire starts, it will be extremely difficult suddenly and to control and will move very fast. Buildings without warning are not built to withstand these fires. CATASTROPHIC WATCH for signs of The safest place to be is away from any bushfire fire, especially smoke TOTAL FIRE BAN prone areas. and flames • Avoid travelling through forests, KNOW the Fire Danger thick bush or long dry grass. Rating in your area and • Leave bushfire prone areas the night be aware of local before or early in the morning. Act conditions immediately – do not wait and see. HAVE your You need to get ready to act Bushfire Survival Plan and kit ready Fires that start under these conditions will be EXTREME unpredictable, fast-moving and difficult to control. CALL 000 to report a fire TOTAL FIRE BAN The safest place to be is away from any bushfire prone areas: leave them early in the day, and do TO SEEK not travel into these areas. INFORMATION • listen to You need to be aware local radio Fires that start under these conditions will be • go to SEVERE difficult to control. If possible, avoid travelling into bushfire prone areas. If not, only travel if you and www.cfs.sa.gov.au TOTAL FIRE BAN your vehicle are well prepared. Know where to go • or call the Bushfire if there is a bushfire. Watch out for smoke or any Information changes in conditions. Hotline on 1300 362 361 VERY HIGH You need to be prepared (TTY 133 677) Fires that start under these conditions are likely to HIGH be controlled. Buildings can provide safety. Know where to get more information about the weather LOW-MODERATE and bushfires, and watch out for any changes.

Parks of Kangaroo Island 69 Travelling on the road If you need to use your Cars are a very dangerous place to vehicle as a shelter from be during a bushfire, as they offer a bushfire little protection from radiant heat, Research shows that sheltering inside and driving conditions are often a vehicle is a high risk strategy and it is difficult and stressful. highly unlikely that a person will survive If you are aware of bushfires before in all but the mildest circumstances. you leave home, plan an alternative The only sure way to survive a bushfire route and do not travel to the affected is to be nowhere near the threat. area. If you come across smoke while Before the fire front reaches you travelling, turn around and go back. Listen to the radio and ask locally for • Park behind a solid structure to block help to find a safe way through. as much heat as you can. If this isn’t possible, find a clearing away from dense Ensure your vehicle is properly bush and flammable material on the maintained for the journey you are ground, such as branches and leaves. undertaking. Keep several woollen blankets and a supply of fresh water • Park the vehicle off the roadway in your vehicle, just in case you are to avoid collisions in poor visibility. caught in a bushfire. • Face vehicle towards oncoming fire front.

• Turn headlights and hazard lights on.

• Tightly close all windows and doors.

• Stay inside your vehicle – it offers better protection from the radiant heat than being in the open.

• Shut all the air vents and turn the air conditioning off.

• Turn the vehicle engine off.

• Get down below window level into foot wells and shelter under woollen blankets.

• Drink water to minimise risks of dehydration.

Eucalyptus regrowth 70 Parks of Kangaroo Island As the fire front passes

• During a bushfire the critical time • Tyres and external plastic body parts for personal safety is during the may catch alight. In more extreme cases 5 to 10 minutes it takes for the the vehicle interior may catch on fire. fire front to pass. • Once the front has passed and the • Stay in the vehicle until fire front temperature has dropped, cautiously has passed. exit the vehicle (be careful – internal parts will be extremely hot). • Fuel tanks are very unlikely to explode. • Move to a safe area such as a strip • Smoke gradually gets inside the vehicle of land that has already burnt. and fumes will be released from the interior of the vehicle. Stay as close • Stay covered in woollen blankets, to the floor as possible to minimise continue to drink water and wait inhalation and cover mouth with for assistance. a moist cloth.

Disclaimer Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License While every reasonable effort has been made www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au to verify the information in this fact sheet use Copyright Owner: Crown in right of the state of of the information contained is at your sole risk. The Department recommends that you independently South Australia 2015 Front cover image: South Australian verify the information before taking any action. Tourism Commission FIS 93469

Parks of Kangaroo Island 71 Further information

Flinders Chase Visitor Centre T: (08) 8553 4490 E: [email protected]

Seal Bay T: (08) 8553 4463 E: [email protected]

Kelly Hill Conservation Park T: (08) 8553 4464 E: [email protected]

Cape Borda Lightstation T: (08) 8553 4465 E: [email protected]

Cape Willoughby Lightstation T: (08) 8553 4466 E: [email protected]

www.parks.sa.gov.au

Natural Resources Centre Kangaroo Island 37 Dauncey Street Kingscote SA 5223 T: (08) 8553 4444 E: [email protected] www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/kangarooisland

Boxer Drive towards Remarkable Rocks