Labor promises Aldinga Washpool Conservation Park if elected in 2022
One of the last coastal lagoons of its kind remaining along the metropolitan coastline would be preserved under a Labor Party pledge for a new southern conservation park.
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A local community group has welcomed an election promise to establish a conservation park at a southern wetland.
The Labor Party this week announced it would create the Aldinga Washpool Conservation Park if elected in 2022.
The washpool – also known as Wangkuntilla – is one of the last coastal lagoons of its kind remaining along the metropolitan coastline.
Aldinga Bay Residents Association president Joshua Reiter said the group welcomed the announcement.
“The creation of a Conservation Park … would stop current or future proposals to sell off part of this precious and sacred space,” he said.
“The creation of this Conservation Park will recognise the cultural and environmental significance of this space and will protect it for generations to come.”
Mr Reiter called on Premier Steven Marshall and Environment and Water Minister David Speirs to meet with the group and match the Labor Party’s commitment.
Mr Speirs said the State Government was working towards securing the future of the site.
“The State Government recognises the environmental and cultural significance of the Aldinga Washpool Lagoon,” he said.
“We are committed to conservation in the area and just like I did with Glenthorne Farm, I will protect this site from property developers.
“Unlike the former Labor Government who ripped funding away from the environment we will continue to invest record amounts to conserve and enhance our open spaces.”
The 91ha site is culturally significant to the Kaurna people with the area once used for the curing and drying of animal skins for cloaks and rugs.
“This is a site of special significance for the Kaurna People, the traditional owners of this sacred place,” opposition spokeswoman Susan Close said.
“It also provides a crucial habitat for birds, frogs and more than 100 plant species.
“We must work to protect what precious urban natural habitats we have left, and I am proud to be able to make this commitment on behalf of the Labor Party.”
Ownership of the site is currently split between the Environment Department, the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure, SA Water and Onkaparinga Council.
Last year, SA Water proposed selling four blocks of land which connected to the wetland despite council and community opposition.
Local Labor member Leon Bignell said the region needed to be protected before it was too late.
“The washpool is a significant and special part of South Australia and is cherished by local people,” he said.
“It desperately needs to be protected, not carved up and sold off.”
