A new 3.2-hectare wetland on Adelaide’s city fringe has been completed, providing critical flood risk mitigation and delivering an outdoor recreation space for South Australians.
The Victoria Park/Pakapakanthi wetland has been built as part of the Brown Hill Keswick Creek Stormwater Project, designed to provide flood protection for the South Australian community, and offers significant environmental and community benefits.
The project represents the largest earthmoving exercise and redevelopment in Adelaide’s park lands in the past 60 years.
“This wetland is a key part of South Australia’s flood mitigation system and will provide greater protection for properties and critical infrastructure in the event of a major flood,” Project Director, Peta Mantzarapis said.
“We have seen the devastating damage that can be caused by flooding which occurred interstate in recent months.
“This highlights the need for flood detention such as wetlands and other effective stormwater infrastructure which play an important role in risk mitigation.”
She said the Victoria Park wetland will deliver a range of environmental and community benefits such as improved water quality to downstream areas and receiving waters of Gulf St Vincent, enhanced biodiversity, and amenity for park users on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.
South Australians are also expected to flock to the site for educational and recreational purposes.
“We expect that visitors, particularly families, will enjoy visiting the wetland and having the
opportunity to see the full range of environmental benefits in action,” she said.
“We have already accommodated school groups during the construction phase of the project and look forward to welcoming them back to see the completed wetland.
“There’s plenty to see and do for everyone, including taking adventure walks and discovering the varieties of wildlife that have already called this amazing place their home.”
The Brown Hill Keswick Creek Stormwater Project is funded equally by State and Local
Government, via the Stormwater Management Authority and the Cities of Adelaide, Burnside, Mitcham, Unley and West Torrens.
Deputy Premier of South Australia and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, Susan Close said the Victoria Park wetland was a timely and important piece of infrastructure for the city which plays a key role in flood mitigation.
“At the same time, this development provides a great environment for residents and families to explore nature and spend quality time outdoors,” she said.
Last month, the Federal Government also committed $10 million towards stage two of the project, which will increase stormwater flow capacity through lower Brown Hill Creek.
