Flinders Chase National Park and Wilderness Protection Area

About

Flinders Chase National Park is a must for any parks adventure. This vast area of wilderness features the iconic Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and a long-nosed fur seal colony.

Sitting high on ancient rocky platforms above the sea, Remarkable Rocks’ surreal shapes and golden orange colours provide extraordinary photo opportunities. Admirals Arch at is not only an impressive rock arch, weather worn over thousands of years, it’s also home to a colony of long-nosed fur seals.

Flinders Chase National Park is recovering naturally following the 2019-20 summer bushfires, which burnt 96 per cent of the park (and the Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area). Bushfires have played an integral part in shaping the ecology of the Australian landscape for millions of years. Many native plant species are adapted to survive, regenerate and thrive after fire and much of the park is regaining its green cloak of coastal health, mallee woodland and eucalypt forest. Goannas, koalas, eagles, kangaroos and echidnas are regularly spotted in the park.

Visitors can be part of the bushfire recovery journey by driving re-opened roads, including Cape du Couedic Road (and the wavy section which has become one of the most insta-famous roads in ), visiting Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and Weirs Cove and camping at West Bay and Harvey’s Return. A selection of shorter trails have re-opened, including the Ravine des Casoars and Cape du Couedic hikes and the more challenging Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail.

Must-have rebuild works are being fast-tracked in Flinders Chase National Park. While they’re underway, you’ll find temporary facilities such as portable toilets at Rocky River.

Entry fees apply (https://parkskangarooisland.rezdy.com/444519/flinders-chase-national-park-day-entry). There is a 24-hour wifi payment hotspot at Rocky River, 5 km inside the park entrance, but given the remote location the connection can be slow and it's best to pay day entry before you go (https://parkskangarooisland.rezdy.com/444519/flinders-chase-national-park-day-entry). NPWS staff are in the park daily from 9am to 5pm.

Take care driving at all times and particularly at dawn and dusk, pack enough water and snacks for your visit, and leave no trace. This will give our bushland the best chance of recovery.

The park has limited toilets, there is no food or drink available for purchase throughout the park.

Vivonne Bay General Store is the closest supplier of food, drinks and fuel and the Western KI Caravan Park sells basic food, drinks and ice cream.

Pets, including dogs, are not permitted in the park.

Download the park map. Download the National Parks of Kangaroo Island Visitor Guide: May 2021 (https://cdn.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/docs/baudin-conservation-park/NPWSSA-Parks-Of-KI-Summary-Booklet- May-2021.pdf).

Opening hours

Open daily.

Customer service staff are in the park between 9am and 5pm at Rocky River.

There is a 24-hour wifi payment hotspot at Rocky River, 5 km inside the park entrance. Because of the remote location the connection can be slow and it's best to pay for day entry before you go (https://environmentsa.rezdy.com/406265/flinders-chase-national-park-day-entry).

Contact details Visitor information, bookings and park management:

National Parks Wildlife Service South Australia Kangaroo Island office (office hours)

Phone: (+61 8) 8553 4444 Email: [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Emergency contacts:

Medical, fire (including bushfire) and police emergency situations Phone: Triple Zero - 000

Police Assistance Phone: 131 444 for non-urgent police assistance

National Parks and Wildlife Service SA – After-hours duty officer Phone: 0477 334 898

Injured wildlife:

Within the park Please contact National Parks Wildlife Service South Australia Kangaroo Island office on (08) 8553 4444 or the after- hours duty officer on 0477 334 898.

Outside of the park Please contact a local wildlife rescue group.

Marine mammals If you find a sick or stranded marine mammal (including whales, seals, sea lions and dolphins), please contact National Parks Wildlife Service South Australia Kangaroo Island office on (08) 8553 4444 or the after-hours duty officer on 0477 334 898.

When to visit

You can visit Flinders Chase all year round. The mood of the park changes with the seasons. In winter, you’ll see the rivers and creeks flowing, diverse colours and shapes of fungi, and orchids begin to bloom. Spring brings prolific wildflowers, the frogs call and the birds and animals are breeding. Spring and summer are a wonderful time for camping, picnicing and exploring the many walking trails throughout the park. Summer is a busy time with mostly mild weather perfect for beach going.

More information on planning a trip in South Australia (https://southaustralia.com/plan-a-trip/weather-and-alerts) and on local weather (http://www.bom.gov.au/sa/forecasts/kangaroo-island.shtml). Getting there

Flinders Chase National Park is located 110km west of Kingscote, on Kangaroo Island. Follow the Playford and West End Highways or the South Coast Road. (https://cdn.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/docs/flinders-chase-national- park/Flinders_Chase_NP_Ravine_des_Casoars_WPA_April_2021.pdf)

Park map (https://cdn.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/docs/flinders-chase-national- park/Flinders_Chase_NP_Ravine_des_Casoars_WPA_April_2021.pdf)

You can get to Kangaroo Island from mainland South Australia on the SeaLink (https://www.sealink.com.au/) or KI Connect (https://kic.com.au/book-now/) ferries or by flying Qantas (https://www.qantas.com/au/en.html) or Rex (https://www.rex.com.au/).

Accessibility

Toilets

Accessible toilets are located at Rocky River and Cape du Couedic.

Admirals Arch

Unfortunately reaching the arch can be tricky – while there’s a purpose-built boardwalk to get there, it’s steep with steps at the end that take you to see the arch itself. If you can’t make it down to the arch, the scenery along the way is still well worth a journey along the boardwalk. There are several places where seats are provided to rest and enjoy the view. From the lookouts at the car park and boardwalk there are spectacular views of , seal colonies, the Cape du Couedic Lighthouse and the very dramatic coastline.

Remarkable Rocks

Unfortunately the boardwalk to Remarkable Rocks was destroyed in the summer 2019/2020 bushfires. While work to rebuild the park is ongoing, there is a temporary compacted path from the carpark to Remarkable Rocks. The path is narrow and can be busy at peak visitation times.

Share your parks experience

Parks are for all to enjoy, we would love to hear from you about your experience in nature. You can share your comments, pictures and videos with us and others by tagging @NationalParksSA and #AccessNPSA on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NPWSSA/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nationalparkssa/) or email (https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/contact-us/get-in-touch-online) us. Dogs not allowed

Pets are not permitted in this park.

Discover which parks you can walk your dog in on our find a park (https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/find-a- park#/list/) tool or read 17 dog-friendly walks in Adelaide Parks (http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/goodliving/posts/2017/12/dogs-part-2) by Good Living for inspiration.

Assistance dogs

Assistance dogs are permitted in most public places and are therefore welcome in South Australia’s parks and reserves. Assistance dogs must be appropriately restrained on a lead and remain under your effective control at all times while in a park or reserve.

As per the dogs in parks and reserves policy, if the dog is not an accredited assistance dog, they must be trained to assist a person with a disability to alleviate that disability and meet standards of hygiene and behaviour appropriate for a dog in a public place. However, refusal may be given if the person with the disability is unable to produce evidence the dog is an assistance dog with the appropriate training.

Before taking your assistance dog into a park that does not normally allow dogs, it is highly recommended that you contact us so we can provide you with the latest information on any potential hazards within specific parks that may affect your dog. Please contact the park via the contact details provided under the contact tab or contact the visitor service centre via email (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/$5d334bfd-e60f-405d-9957-4d69b87c65ba$/contact- us/get-in-touch-online) or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NPWSSA), or you can live chat with a customer service representative on the website Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

Facilities

Much of the park infrastructure was destroyed in the summer 2019/2020 bushfires including the visitor centre, heritage cottages, campgrounds, toilets, walking trails and picnic areas.

While work to rebuild the park is ongoing, there is a temporary visitor information office at Rocky River, 5km inside the park entrance, portable toilets at Rocky River and some temporary compacted trails throughout the park.

Bins are not provided within the park. Remember to leave no trace and take your rubbish with you.

Generators are not permitted in the park.

Wood fires and solid fuel fires are prohibited throughout the year. Gas fires are permitted, other than on days of total fire ban.

Mobile phone coverage

Telstra is the only phone carrier which provides coverage, however it can be patchy and unreliable, especially if you are in low-lying areas.

There is a 24-hour wifi payment hotspot at Rocky River, 5 km inside the park entrance, but given the remote location the connection can be slow and it's best to pay day entry before you go (http://environmentsa.rezdy.com/406265/flinders-chase-national-park-day-entry).

Get involved with reimagining Kangaroo Island’s parks

Through the devastation of the bushfires, a unique opportunity has emerged to reimagine visitor experiences in Flinders Chase National Park, as well as Kelly Hill Conservation Park (including Ravine des Casoars and Cape Bouguer wilderness protection areas and ) and Seal Bay Conservation Park. Find out more at: reimagine-ki.parks.sa.gov.au (https://reimagine-ki.parks.sa.gov.au/)

Virtual tour

This virtual tour of the park was captured before the summer 2019/2020 bushfire and shows Remarkable Rocks, Cape de Couedic and Admiral's Arch.

Georama virtual tour (http://georama.com.au/flinderschasenationalpark)

Useful information

Explore what other nature and outdoor activities (https://southaustralia.com/places-to-go/kangaroo-island/things- to-do/nature-and-outdoor) are available in this area on the South Australia Tourism website. Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail website (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/$02bd07c7-1c3e-4cd8-859d- ab0f23619fc3$/home) Parks management plans (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/$af0540de-f4a0-4f62-bdb6- 83ff5fbb89dd$/topics/park-management/state-wide-park-strategies/park-management-plans) Trails SA (http://www.southaustraliantrails.com/) SA Marine Parks (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/$d8fde78a-8e63-4576-975d-4b8f8c28983e$/home) Important: Collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited. Dead wood plays a vital role in providing shelter for animals and adding nutrients to the soil. It is an offence to fly drones (remotely piloted aircraft) in South Australia's national parks, reserves and marine park restricted access zones (http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/marineparks/find-a-park) without a permit. Permits (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/permits-and-licences/drones-and-aircraft) are considered for scientific research and commercial filming.

Plants and animals

Flora and fauna species lists

To download flora (plants) and fauna (animals) species lists for this park, use the 'Create Simple Species List' tab under 'Flora Tools' or 'Fauna Tools' in NatureMaps (https://data.environment.sa.gov.au/NatureMaps/Pages/default.aspx).

Find out how wildlife has recovered (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/park-management/bushfire-recovery) following the 2019/2020 summer bushfires.

Pests and diseases

Phytophthora (fy-TOFF-thora), otherwise known as root-rot fungus, is killing our native plants and threatens the survival of animals depending on plants for food and shelter.

This introduced fungus can be found in plant roots, soil and water. Help stop the spread by using hygiene stations, staying on tracks and trails and by complying with all Phytophthora management signs.

Phytophthora brochure (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/files/sharedassets/parks/pa-gen- phytophthorabroch.pdf)

Traditional owners

Aboriginal peoples have occupied, enjoyed and managed the lands and waters of this State for thousands of generations. For Aboriginal first nations, creation ancestors laid down the laws of the Country and bestowed a range of customary rights and obligations to the many Aboriginal Nations across our state.

There are many places across the State that have great spiritual significance to Aboriginal first nations. At some of these places Aboriginal cultural protocols, such as restricted access, are promoted and visitors are asked to respect the wishes of Traditional Owners.

In places where protocols are not promoted visitors are asked to show respect by not touching or removing anything, and make sure you take all your rubbish with you when you leave.

Aboriginal peoples continue to play an active role in caring for their Country, including in parks across South Australia.

DEW Park management (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/park-management) DEW Aboriginal partnerships (%7Bentry%3A72029%3Aurl%7D/co-management-of-parks)

European history

Following many decades of lobbying by the Royal Society of South Australia (Fauna and Flora Protection Committee), legislation was passed in 1919 to set aside the area known as Flinders Chase for the “Protection, Preservation and Propagation of Australian Fauna and Flora”. Later declared a National Park, Flinders Chase bears its name from the British explorer , one of the first European explorers to make landfall and officially name Kangaroo Island.

Prior to its preservation as a Flora and Fauna Reserve, various tracts of Flinders Chase were farmed by pastoralists including the May family who worked the Rocky River Pastoral Lease (surrounding the current day Visitor Centre) between 1893 until 1914. Evidence of the Mays’ hard work and toil can be observed through their hand-constructed dwellings in May’s Homestead and Postman’s Cottage. See and do

Camping

West Bay and Harvey’s Return campgrounds have re-opened. Campsites need to be booked prior to arrival. Book online (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/booking#Flinders%20Chase%20National%20Park%20and%20Ravine%20Des%20Casoars%20Wilderness%20Protection%20Area) to reserveyour campsite up to 12 months in advance.

A 4WD is recommended for camping at Harvey’sReturn as the gravel road to the campsite can be quite corrugated.

Accommodation

Unfortunately all accommodation lodgings within Flinders Chase National Park are closed until further notice because of the impacts of the summer 2019/2020 bushfires.

You can still stay in a unique lighthouse keepers’ cottage in a park at Conservation Park (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/parks/cape-willoughby-conservation-park#see-and-do) on the eastern side of Kangaroo Island.

Bushwalking

Kangaroo Island's rugged coastline offers keen bushwalkers spectacular coastal scenery, pristine rivers, tracts of undisturbed native vegetation and opportunities to observe abundant and diverse wildlife. Most of the coast is very isolated and provides trekkers with a true wilderness experience. Our trails cater for all levels of fitness and adventure and our classification system makes it easy to select an experience suitable for you.

Walk, hike or trek - what's the difference? (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/$5d334bfd-e60f-405d-9957- 4d69b87c65ba$/know-before-you-go/bushwalking) Bushwalking safety (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/SCControls/SCWYSYWIGManager.aspx?dataDefinitionId=6f93b9e3- 622f-4cff-80f3-965c369a5e7b&contentVersionId=94d8fcef-8fd1-4a07-b8d6-78723ce38c44&contentId=6168c588- 97ea-4ee0-82e6-7be9870383d7&contentVariantId=00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000&languageCode=en- AU#safety) Bushwalking minimum impact code (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/files/sharedassets/parks/wilderness_miniumumimpactcode.pdf) Park trail maps (https://cdn.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/docs/flinders-chase-national- park/Flinders_Chase_NP_Ravine_des_Casoars_WPA_April_2021.pdf)

Moderate hikes

Cape du Couedic Hike (40 min loop, 2km)

Spectacular coastal cliff top views and interpretive signs. Learn about the park’s coastal vegetation and maritime history.

Access: this trail starts at the Cape du Couedic day visitor area.

Ravine Hike (3 hrs, 7km)

Explore the Valley of the Cassowaries, named after the now extinct dwarf emu. Take a shaded walk into the valley, then follow the river to a remote sandy beach.

Access: this trail starts from the car park on Ravine Road, in the Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area.

Treks

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (5 days, 61km)

The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (https://www.kangarooislandwildernesstrail.sa.gov.au/home) suffered significant damage in the bushfires. In the first steps of recovery, a modified Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail has reopened for walkers hosted by our licensed tour operators. The five day walks of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail – Fire Recovery Experience allow walkers to see the environment as it’s never been seen before. Witness the landscapes ‘unmasked’ and experience the beauty of regenerating plants, easier wildlife spotting and vistas that pre- fire vegetation never allowed.

Whale watching

Between mid-May and late October whales migrate from sub-Antarctic water to the comparatively warmer waters of the South Australian coast to calve and mate. While our whale visitors are mostly southern right whales, we also have sightings of sperm whales, humpbacks, blue whales and the occasional orca.

Flinders Chase National Park and Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area offer ideal vantage points to see these majestic creatures. If you are visiting during whale season, keep an extra keen eye on the ocean at these following places

Cape du Couedic Lookout (accessible only from the Cape du Couedic hike), Flinders Chase National Park Weirs Cove Lookout, Flinders Chase National Park Admirals Arch Lookouts, Flinders Chase National Park Cape Borda Lightstation (https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/find-a-park/Browse_by_region/kangaroo- island/cape-borda-lightstation), Flinders Chase National Park Scott Cove Lookout, Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area

Attractions

Remarkable Rocks

Visit the exquisite naturally sculptured Remarkable Rocks whose formation lies atop a remnant granite outcrop.

Admirals Arch

Located at Cape du Couedic, Admirals Arch is a beautiful natural rock arch that displays the power of the ocean and weathering which has shaped the coastline. This area is also home to a large breeding colony of long-nosed fur seals.

Cape Borda Lightstation

Drive Shackle Road to Cape Borda. Once there, you can explore the Cape Borda Lightstation that sits upon towering cliffs overlooking . Take a self-guided tour around the Cape Borda Lightstation settlement. It will give you an insight into the early lightkeepers’ living conditions, and how isolation and a demanding routine dominated their often harsh lives. Book your self guided tour online (http://environmentsa.rezdy.com/412198/cape- borda-lightstation-self-guided-tour) before you go.

After the self-guided tour, enjoy a stroll along one of the walking trails around the park including the Cliff Top Hike. This short trail through a picturesque rock garden takes you to a stone lookout that provides an ideal vantage point for spotting whales and dolphins.

Mountain biking

You can ride your bike on roads open to the public. All walking trails within the park are for pedestrians only.

Which parks can you ride in? (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/$5d334bfd-e60f-405d-9957- 4d69b87c65ba$/Visiting/mountain-biking)

Fishing Fishing is actively managed in South Australia by the Department of Primary Industries and Resources SA. (http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing)Check out these useful links before embarking on your fishing adventure:

Recreational fishing regulations (http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing/recreational_fishing) SA recreational fishing guide app (http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing/recfishingapp) Aquatic reserves (http://www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing/closures_and_aquatic_reserves/aquatic_reserves)

Wildlife

In Flinders Chase National Park you can see a range of wildlife.

Find out how wildlife has recovered (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/park-management/bushfire-recovery) following the 2019/2020 summer bushfires.

Here are some of the animals you may encounter:

Kangaroo Island kangaroo This kangaroo is smaller, darker and longer furred than its closest mainland relative. During the day they often rest under vegetation, coming out to graze in the early morning and late afternoon.

Tammar wallaby These wallabies are nocturnal and are best seen at dawn and dusk. During the day Tammar wallabies rest in dense, low vegetation. They move through tunnels in the vegetation from their daytime shelters to grassed areas to feed in the evening.

Short-beaked echidna Echidnas are found across Kangaroo Island in all types of habitat. Short-beaked echidnas are generally solitary, but during the breeding season from May–September male echidnas form trains behind females. Echidnas can be seen throughout Kangaroo Island, across all types of habitat.

Platypus Kangaroo Island contains the only wild population of platypus in South Australia. In the 1920s concerned conservationists recognised platypus were becoming endangered on the mainland of South Australia and consequently introduced them to Flinders Chase National Park.

Australian sea-lion The Australian sea-lion is one of the rarest seals in the world. Seal Bay Conservation Park is home to the world’s third largest breeding colony. Spot one in this park or at Seal Bay Conservation Park (https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/sealbay/home) on a guided tour. Long-nosed fur seals Long-nosed fur seals live along rocky shores around Kangaroo Island where they rest and breed in colonies. Spot them at Admirals Arch in Flinders Chase National Park.

Glossy black-cockatoo Glossy black-cockatoos feed during the day returning to their nests at dusk.

Koala Koalas were not on Kangaroo Island at the time of European settlement. In the 1920s conservationists released 18 koalas in Flinders Chase National Park to save their declining mainland population. The population quickly established and their numbers rapidly increased and koalas moved across the island. Koalas spends most of the day resting in a tree fork, usually climbing into the canopy around dusk to feed. Look for their ball-shape high in the canopy, or as they move between branches.

Heath goanna Heath goannas are active during the day and are often seen basking in the sun. Spot one along one of the park’s walking trails or alternatively at Bales Bay in Seal Bay Conservation Park (https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/sealbay/home).

Cape Barren goose Cape Barren geese can be seen on Kangaroo Island from autumn through to early spring. Spot one at the grassy areas near the entrance of the park, where they breed.

Whales There have been 29 different types of whales recorded in South Australia. The most common are the southern right whale, humpback whale, sperm whale, blue whale and orca whale (killer whale). Of these you are most likely to spot a southern right whale along the South Australian coast.

Southern right whale Every year, between May to October, southern right whales gather along the southern coastline of Australia to mate and calve, before returning to sub-Antarctic waters to feed.

The southern right whale is a large whale which can grow up to 17.5 metres and weigh over 80 tons. The vast majority of southern right whales are black in colour with distinctive white patterns on their heads that are calluses formed by small crustaceans known as 'whale lice'. The patterns are visible at birth and are unique to each whale allowing researchers to identify individual whales.

Volunteering

Become a volunteer (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/volunteer) in South Australia’s national parks. Safety

Bushwalking

Kangaroo Island's rugged coastline offers keen bushwalkers spectacular coastal scenery, pristine rivers, tracts of native vegetation undergoing bushfire recovery and opportunities to observe abundant and diverse wildlife. Most of the coast is very isolated and provides trekkers with a true wilderness experience. However, this isolation also means that good planning is essential to ensure that your trek is as enjoyable and safe as possible. Some parks are closed seasonally to protect threatened species during their breeding season. We recommend discussing any trekking plans with a park ranger.

Essential trip preparation includes:

Sufficient water for the conditions Protective clothing and footwear suitable for the activity and the season Sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat Food for the duration of the trip PLUS emergency rations and snacks Nominating an emergency contact person First-aid kit Map, compass, torch, mirror

Be sure to familiarise yourself with any fire restrictions (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/know-before-you-go/fires-and- bbqs) or park closures (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/know-before-you-go/closures-and-alerts).

Remember to establish a point of contact. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. In the case of longer walks, write down your route and leave it with a responsible contact person.

Provide as much information as possible to your designated responsible contact person. This includes:

List of participants Dates Daily trip log (start and finish points) Planned route Vehicle make, model, colour, registration Knowledge of any pre-existing medical conditions of the participants Communication / safety plan. Nominate how best they can contact you (mobile/satellite phone, radio, GPS, EPERB) and who they contact in case of your not returning.

Your responsible contact person can raise the alarm if you have not returned and/or contacted them by the time specified by you.

Camping

When camping in a national park, it's important to remember the following:

Always let someone responsible know your travel plans, especially when travelling in remote areas. It's a good idea to let them know when you expect to return. Check the weather forecast before you leave, including overnight temperatures on the Bureau of Meteorology (http://www.bom.gov.au/sa/). Even during very mild weather, the nights can get very cold. The quality and quantity of water cannot be guaranteed within parks. Please bring plenty of water and food to be self-sufficient. Always camp in designated sites (where applicable) - do not camp beneath trees with overhanging branches, as they can drop without warning. It's also a good idea to check that there are no insect nests nearby. Check to make sure you're not camping in a natural waterway, flash floods can happen anytime. If camp fires are permitted, you must bring your own firewood, as the collection of firewood within national parks is prohibited. Extinguish your camp fire with water (not sand or dirt) until the hissing sound stops. Ensure that you are familiar with the fire restrictions (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/$5d334bfd-e60f-405d- 9957-4d69b87c65ba$/know-before-you-go/fires-and-bbqs) for this park.

Whale watching

Maintaining the legal distance from marine mammals such as whales, dolphins and seals is important, both for our safety and that of the animals.

The animals may be seriously injured if they are struck by a vessel or frightened young may become separated from their mothers. Even if there is no contact, coming too close can disrupt feeding, breeding and migratory behaviours.

Regular water users should make themselves familiar with all the rules for interacting with marine mammals by viewing the National Parks and Wildlife (Protected Animals – Marine Mammals) Regulations 2010 (https://legislation.sa.gov.au/LZ/C/R/NATIONAL%20PARKS%20AND%20WILDLIFE%20(PROTECTED%20ANIMALS%20- %20MARINE%20MAMMALS)%20REGULATIONS%202010/CURRENT/2010.263.AUTH.PDF).

In the Water

Whale calves: all vessels and swimmers – no closer than 300m. Distressed, stranded or entangled whales: all vessels and swimmers – no closer than 300m. Prescribed vessels (high-powered craft such as jet-skis, hydrofoils, and boats used for water skiing or paragliding): never closer than 300m. Other vessels (for example, cabin cruisers, yachts, ‘tinnies’, inflatables, kayaks, windsurfers and kite surfers) outside of Restricted Area: no closer than 100m Other vessels within 300m of a whale: no anchoring; maximum speed 4 knots; maximum time 60 minutes. Swimmers (including surfers and boogie boarders): no closer than 30m.

On land

No closer than 30m (or 50m if the whale is distressed, stranded or entangled).

In the air

Planes and remotely piloted aircraft (drones) must be at least 300m from any whale or other marine mammals (additional Civil Aviation Safety Authority restrictions apply). Please note that it is an offence to fly drones (remotely piloted aircraft) in South Australia's national parks, reserves and marine park restricted access zones (http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/marineparks/find-a-park) without a permit (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/permits-and-licences/drones-and-aircraft). Permits are considered for scientific research and commercial filming. Helicopters and gyrocopters must be at least 500m from any whale or other marine mammals.

Driving on Kangaroo Island

If you plan to drive on Kangaroo Island roads:

Be aware that the condition of gravel and dirt roads is unpredictable. Slow down. Avoid driving from sunset to sunrise to avoid collisions with our wildlife. You must stop your car off the road before you take photos. If you are visiting from overseas, remember we drive on the left in Australia!

To learn more, check out 'Expect the Unexpected' (http://kangarooisland.sa.gov.au/expecttheunexpected) safety video courtesy of and the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure. The video shows you what to expect on Kangaroo Island roads and how to drive safely while visiting. The video is available in English, Italian, Chinese, French, German, Hindi and Indonesian languages.

Fire

Can I have a fire or barbecue?

Wood fires and solid fuel fires are prohibited throughout the year. Gas fires and liquid fuel fires are permitted, other than on days of total fire ban. Ensure you are familiar with the fire restrictions (https://admin.environment.sa.gov.au/files/sharedassets/parks/safety/dew_park_fire_restrictions_2020_to_2021.pdf) for this park.

Closures and safety

This park is closed on days of Catastrophic Fire Danger and may also be closed on days of Extreme Fire Danger.

You can determine the current fire danger rating by checking the Fire Ban District map (https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/bans_and_ratings.jsp) on the CFS website.

Check the CFS website (https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/home.jsp) or call the CFS Bushfire Information Hotline 1800 362 361 for:

Information on fire bans and current fire conditions (https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/bans_and_ratings.jsp) Current CFS warnings and incidents (https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/warnings_and_incidents.jsp) Information on what to do in the event of a fire (https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/prepare_for_a_fire.jsp).

Listen to your local area radio station (https://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/public/download.jsp?id=104478) for the latest updates and information on fire safety.

Water

Beware of freak waves. Strong currents and rips can make swimming dangerous in this area. Do not climb on, or fish from slippery rocks.

4WD

West Bay Road between Snake Lagoon Track and West Bay Campground is 4WD access only.

When 4WDriving in the park, it is important to be aware of the following:

Standard road rules apply when driving anywhere in the park, including the laws for speed limits, drink driving, vehicle registration and seat belts. Take extreme care when driving in the park – be aware of blind corners, crests and narrow two-way tracks. Observe all track and safety signs, especially 'No public access' signs. Do not take your vehicle off the designated tracks. Wildlife can be threatened and precious habitat and indigenous sites can be damaged by off track driving. Make sure you know what to do in the event of getting bogged and always carry a shovel. Know before you go

Every national park is different and each has its own unique environment. It is important to be responsible while enjoying all the park has to offer.

Please ensure that you:

leave your pets at home do not feed birds or other animals, it promotes aggressive behaviour and an unbalanced ecology do not bring generators, chainsaws or firearms into the park leave the park as you found it - place rubbish in the bins provided or take it with you abide by the road rules (maintain the speed limit) respect geological and heritage sites do not remove native plants are considerate of other park users. important: Collection of firewood within National Parks is prohibited. it is an offence to fly drones (remotely piloted aircraft) in South Australia's national parks, reserves and marine park restricted access zones (http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/marineparks/find-a-park) without a permit. Permits (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/permits-and-licences/drones-and-aircraft) are considered for scientific research and commercial filming.

Fauna

Follow these tips to optimise the experience for yourself and our precious wildlife.

Observe don’t interact

Always put the animals’ welfare first. Move slowly and quietly and keep at least 20 m away. Turn off your mobile phone. Use binoculars for that close-up view. Observe the animals without interacting; do not try to touch them, play with them or pursue them. If the animals change their behaviour while you are watching them you are probably too close; retreat slowly and give them more space. When photographing wildlife turn your flash off and use natural light instead to protect their eyes.

Drive safely Wildlife is active at night. Animals are blinded by bright lights, so slow down, dip your lights and take time to observe the wildlife. During the day watch out for goannas and snakes basking on warm roads and birds and echidnas foraging along road edges. Keep wildlife wild Human foods can cause illness and death to wildlife so please do not feed them. Feeding wildlife also interrupts their natural patterns of behaviour, which are essential for their survival in the bush.

Snake safety Snakes live all over South Australia and many of the world's most venomous snakes are found in Australia. If you see a snake in the wild, always assume it is venomous and leave it alone. Snakes are not likely to chase you, so it’s best to leave them be. When walking in national parks and reserves, stick to the trails and make a bit of noise when you walk. For more information, visit our blog: What to do if you see a snake in the wild (http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/goodliving/posts/2017/12/Avoid-snakes). Maps

Park maps

Flinders Chase National Park Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Protection Area (https://cdn.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/docs/flinders-chase-national- park/Flinders_Chase_NP_Ravine_des_Casoars_WPA_April_2021.pdf) Flinders Chase National Park - Cape du Couedic (Admirals Arch) to Remarkable Rocks (https://cdn.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/docs/flinders-chase-national- park/Flinders_Chase_NP_Cape_du_Couedic_April_2021.pdf)

Maps on your mobile

If you have a smartphone or tablet you can download the free Avenza Map app (https://www.avenzamaps.com/maps/how-it-works.html%22%20/t%20%22_blank) and have interactive national park maps on hand when you need them.

The app uses your device's built-in GPS to plot your real-time location within the park onto a map. The app can be used without a network connection and without roaming charges. You can also measure area and distance, plot photos and drop placemark pins.

How to get it working on your device:

1. Download the Avenza Maps app from the app store (iOS (https://apps.apple.com/au/app/avenza- maps/id388424049)/Android (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Avenza&hl=en_AU)) whilst you are still in range (its free!). 2. Open up the app and click the shopping cart icon. 3. Click ‘Find’ and type the name of the national park or reserve you are looking for. 4. Click on the map you are after and install it (all our maps are free). 5. You will now find a list of your installed maps on the home page of the Avenza Maps app. 6. Use our maps through the Avenza Map app while in the park and never take a wrong turn again. Fees

Entry fees

Entry fees apply (https://parkskangarooisland.rezdy.com/444519/flinders-chase-national-park-day-entry), please pay before you go.

Adult $12 Concession $10 Child (aged 4-15) $6.50 1 Adult + 3 Children $30.50 2 Adults + 2 Children $30.50

Camping and accomodation

Camping

Campsites need to be booked prior to arrival.

Click through to the online booking page for more details about individual campgrounds and fees.

Book online

Book online (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/booking#Lincoln%20National%20Park) to reserve your campsite up to 12 months in advance.

FAQs about booking online (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/book-and-pay/frequently-asked-questions)

Book and pay in person

If you are unable to book and pay online you can do so, in person, at these booking agents (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/book-and-pay/where-can-i-book) across the state.

For online bookings enquiries please email:

(mailto:[email protected])[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

Accommodation

Accommodation is currently closed in this park following the summer 2019/2020 bushfires (https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/park-management/bushfire-recovery).