South Para Reservoir, body of water
South Para Reservoir is a water storage facility in South Australia located near Williamstown, surrounded by native bushland and open fields with a network of walking trails. The site features opportunities for fishing, kayaking, cycling, and picnicking along the shoreline.
The reservoir was constructed in the 1950s and completed in 1958 to provide water storage for surrounding communities. The dam was built over nearly a decade by a diverse workforce that included workers from various backgrounds seeking employment after World War II.
The reservoir is a place where people come to observe local wildlife and enjoy nature together, reflecting how the site has become a gathering spot beyond its original purpose. Birdwatchers, photographers, and families use the area regularly, showing how it connects residents to their natural surroundings.
The site is accessible with basic facilities including toilets, barbecue areas, and parking available for visitors. Wear sturdy shoes, bring drinking water, and check local conditions before visiting, especially after rain or during fire danger periods.
The reservoir attracts a surprising variety of wildlife including cormorants, snake birds, kangaroos, and emus that often remain unafraid near visitors. This close coexistence with wild animals provides unexpected opportunities for observing and photographing creatures in their natural behavior.
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