Thorndon Park Reserve
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An often-overlooked reserve in the north-eastern suburbs, has a variety of facilities on offer for visitors of all ages.
, built on the property formerly owned by Lord Petre and the Honourable Henry Petre of Thorndon Hall, Essex, was assigned as a public park for community recreation in 1986.
was the site of the Thorndon Park Reservoir, constructed on Petre's land and that of The South Australia Company. Built in 1860, the reservoir supplied the town of Adelaide, with a capacity of 640 megalitres of water. After arriving in Australia in 1851, the engineer John English, co-designed the jetty at Glenelg and was instrumental in the building of the reservoir. Upgraded in the early 2000s, the park is still undergoing further redevelopment to manage the flora and fauna, and provide facilities for the community.
Located in the suburb of Paradise, on the corner of Gorge Road and Hamilton Terrace, the park is open to the public at all times, although the car park is closed between sunset and sunrise each day. The park is considered a sanctuary for birds, consequently dogs are not allowed in the park.
Entering the reserve, the large shady trees invite picnickers and barbecue aficionados to demonstrate their skills while the kids enjoy a jaunt on the playground equipment. A visit to the Park Ranger for the key will allow children in wheelchairs to enjoy the fun on the Liberty Swing, an innovative swing for people with disabilities.
Near the entrance, the P. W. Richard Force Pump, used between 1890 and 1930 to pump water from the River Torrens to gardens nearby, is a reminder of the history of the park in the earlier days in South Australia.
Facilities in the grassed area cater for a wide variety of functions. Picnic tables under the shady trees or log bench seats for a more rustic lunch are available. Alternatively, the Pungangga Pavilion, a large undercover area, offers protection from the elements for those days where the weather threatens to spoil the day. In another area, a circle of picnic benches sit under large sails supported by poles decorated with Aboriginal Art.
Adjacent to the main entrance, the oval caters for ball sports, making this park a great option for sporting club functions. The rotunda near the picnic area is available for hire for special occasions or family functions. The small heritage museum and adjacent kiosk operated by the Rotary Club of Morialta, is open each weekend. Toilet facilities are also available in the park.
The waterways and ponds provide a scenic backdrop to the network of walking trails winding through and around the park. The 1.45km trail on the sealed, wheelchair and stroller accessible path circumnavigates the park, with distance makers along the trail, for those who want to power walk or run for fitness.
The wetlands provide a haven for a diverse range of plant and wild life. Featuring prominently in a walk around the reservoir lake is the historical old water tower. Birds, particularly pigeons, congregate around the tower, which formed part of the construction of the reservoir back in the 1860s.
Waterways winding through the park toward the reservoir from the smaller lake are interesting facets of the park. Keeping a watchful eye of children near the unfenced waterways is essential, as watching the ducks gather near the pond verges is sure to attract the curious youngsters who might be tempted to follow the ducks as they retreat into the water. The waterfall near the top of the hill is a relaxing venue to watch the birdlife and relax. A pump located near the top of the hill feeds the man-made waterfall.
If a barbecue or picnic is not on the agenda,
The Rezz , located across the road from the park is a great alternative. Purchased in 1855, the Reservoir Hotel has had several owners since commencing as a hotel in December 1858. The new owners relaunched the Hotel as The Rezz, the Hamood family in 2009. The warm and inviting café, together with the friendly staff make this an ideal place for a coffee or a light meal or perhaps a wood oven pizza. The Rezz is also home to a bistro with live entertainment on a Friday evening and a function centre.
has a great deal to offer, with the Campbelltown Council continuing to improve the facilities. Next time you need an outdoor venue for a family gathering, social function or perhaps just some recreational time, pack up the picnic gear and head out to Paradise.
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115776 - 2023-06-12 18:46:11