Head to the Hills for June’s Park of the Month

A star-filled night hike, plant identification tour, fire and recovery guided walk and a botanical art class are just some of the events that will highlight the best of the neighbouring conservation parks.

National Parks and Wildlife Service ranger Kurtis Madigan said that the activities will boost engagement with national parks and encourage being in nature, whatever the time of year.

“Taking part in activities in our national parks is a wonderful way to connect with nature.

Our program has plenty of variety, so we hope that it will have wide appeal and spark an interest in nature with those who haven’t explored Black Hill or Morialta before.”

On 14 June, nature enthusiasts are invited to join the Native Orchid Society of South Australia (NOSSA) to learn how to identify plants and wildlife using the iNaturalist program.

Black Hill Conservation Park is known to be home to 302 species of native flora as well as wildlife including blue wrens, southern boobook owls, black-faced cuckoo shrikes, chestnut-rumped heath wren and the southern brown bandicoot - making it the perfect place to hone your flora and fauna identification skills.

On 19 June, walkers can join a member of the NPWS team to learn about Black Hill Conservation Park’s fire history and hear firsthand how the NPWS prescribed burning program supports conservation efforts to protect threatened species.

Those keen to brush up on their bushwalking skills can join Walking SA on a 3-hour group session on 21 June. As well as planning and navigation tips there will be plenty of time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

“Black Hill and Morialta Conservation Parks are both home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife, so visitors are bound to see something different every time,” said Mr Madigan.

“While we encourage you to look for plants and wildlife, we ask that you don’t touch and return anything you find back to its home.”

Those looking for adventure can join the NPWS team at Morialta for a night hike to the First Falls.

Offering a unique glimpse into a starry and moonlit Morialta, the First Falls hike on 13 June will follow one of Adelaide’s most popular routes.

A daytime guided walk to First Falls on 19 June will involve a ranger-led walk highlighting the plants and animals of the area.

Those with an interest in art can brush up on their technique by joining botanical illustrator Gilbert RM Dashorst for an outdoor class at Morialta on 26 June.

Having worked as an artist at the state’s herbarium for 30 years, Gilbert will use his knowledge to guide participants as they create an artwork based on a plant, view or object found in the park. Materials will be provided.

Rounding out the month, Uncle Tamaru from Deadly Mob will take participants on a Kaurna cultural tour of Morialta. While on the tour, participants will learn about the cultural significance of the plants and animals as well as gain an understanding of Kaurna traditions, language and history in the region.

Visit Park of the Month for more information and booking details.