Protecting Aboriginal heritage in the Coorong National Park

Date Posted: 24 January 2012

Bird-watching, photography, fishing and canoeing are some of the many activities that visitors to Coorong National Park have been enjoying during this summer.

Located just over 100 kilometres south of Adelaide, the Coorong National Park is of national and international, ecological and historical significance, including an important breeding area for the Australian pelican and a refuge for ducks, swans, cormorants, terns, grebes and number species of migratory birds.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) district ranger Simon Oster said it was "fantastic" to see visitors enjoying the many wonders that the Coorong National Park has to offer, but asked that they are mindful of the culturally significant archaeological sites located within the park.

"The Coorong National Park contains some of the most valuable archaeological and Aboriginal heritage within South Australia," Mr Oster said.

"DENR staff actively manage the park and its natural and cultural values on behalf of all Australians, but we need the assistance and cooperation of visitors to achieve this."

Coorong National Park Aboriginal Cultural ranger, Joe Henry Koolmatrie, along with other park staff, is constantly monitoring and protecting important, fragile sites within the sand dunes of the park.

"Remains of our ancestors and evidence of past occupation can be found in these sites that are protected under legislation and need to be respected by visitors to the Coorong," Mr Koolmatrie said.

Mr Oster said the impact of motor vehicles and motorcycles can be dramatic.

"The public can help protect the cultural and natural values of the park by applying some basic principles, such as taking the time to stop and read signs and safety information," Mr Oster said.

"These will assist visitors to understand safe beach driving, where to camp, how to pay for camping fees, how to minimise environmental impacts and where to locate facilities.

"Most importantly, visitors should observe fences which have been installed to protect sensitive areas from vehicle damage.

"Vehicles should only be driven on managed park roads or within areas delineating camping sites along the Ocean Beach.

"Native vegetation within the sand dunes play an important role in stabilising the sand and preventing wind-blown erosion that can cause buried cultural materials to become exposed.

"Vehicle damage to vegetation or removal of plant material for firewood is prohibited and will impact on the cultural heritage values of the area."

Mr Oster said busy periods in the park, such as school holidays, long weekends, and during the up-coming fishing competition can place a strain on environmental and cultural assets, but visitors can help protect the park by observing park rules, respecting the environment and leaving camping areas in good condition.

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