Relax in a National Park this Christmas - western Eyre Peninsula

District Manager Mark Anderson said popular destinations over the summer period are coastal parks, such as Sceale Bay, Point Labatt, Venus Bay and Lake Newland Conservation Parks.

“There’s so much to do in your national parks. Go fishing, four wheel driving, camping, walking or bird watching. Capture some great photos, or just chill out. To help visitors and locals make the most of their Christmas period, and ensure the break is safe and enjoyable, the following information may assist,” Mr Anderson said.

Sceale Bay Conservation Park, a park that shelters an inland saltmarsh (Seagull Lake), backed by spectacular dune systems covered in coastal Mallee and heath understorey. The wetland is home to a variety of wader birds frequenting the area to feed and shelter out of the wind. The more adventurous can take their 4WD into the back of the sand dunes and access the spectacular white beaches of Sceale Bay. A popular fishing, swimming and surfing spot.

Point Labatt Conservation Park is home to the Australian sea-lion is one of Australia's most endangered marine mammals. Point Labatt is the only place on the mainland where Australian sea-lion pups can be seen learning to swim, play and rest on the beach. It is also one of the few places in and around Australia where they are protected from land predators and which provides a safe environment for the sea-lion pups to develop. Bring your binoculars for an enhanced viewing experience.

Venus Bay Conservation Park comprises of the Weyland Peninsula and seven islands, and plays an important role in the recovery and reintroduction of rare and endangered plants and animals. Among the rugged cliffs, swamps, mangrove flats, sandy beaches, and an island tombolo (an island that rises above the water level but is tied to the mainland by a sand bar), there are perfect opportunities to watch more than 100 bird species while you are exploring the park. Go fishing or swimming along the sandy beaches or bring your binoculars to spot some of the park's coastal shorebirds or birds of prey. Further inland you may be lucky enough to see birdlife such as peregrine falcons, rock parrots and a variety of honeyeaters.

Lake Newland Conservation Park comprises the most extensive wetland on the Eyre Peninsula. The natural saline lakes and fresh water springs extend 20km in length, providing habitat for a number of species of waterfowls and wading birds. Surrounded by extensive coastal dunes, the lake system provides an opportunity for avid bird watchers. This part of the park is only accessible by 4WD vehicles. Visitors to the southern end of the park is via a 2wd gravel road where you will find a small campground and access to the beach for fishing and swimming.

Tips to Remember;

• Stay on existing tracks and observe all signs

• Be prepared and self sufficient

• Be aware of oncoming traffic, especially on bends

• Be respectful of others and the environment. Please take your rubbish with you.

• Unregistered vehicles are not permitted, this includes quad bikes (penalties apply)

• No Pets please. We know pets love getting out and enjoying the beach, however, they are not permitted national parks, people who bring pets into the parks will be requested to leave, and will be fined.

Fires

• Only gas/liquid fires are permitted within designated campsites during the fire ban period unless it’s a day of Total Fire Ban, in which case all fires are prohibited.

• Park visitors can find out about fire ban notifications by listening to broadcasts on 891 AM ABC, 1485 AM ABC, 5LM, 765 AM 5CC, and 89.9 MAGIC FM or ring the Natural Resources Centre on 8688 3111 (weekdays). It is the responsibility of park users to be aware of fire bans.

• On days of elevated fire danger parks may be closed.

Travelling to other parks on Eyre Peninsula? Some parks on Eyre Peninsula and around the state required online booking for entry and camping. For more information visit the Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre in Adelaide Place, Port Lincoln or the Port Lincoln Natural Resources Centre (weekdays only) at 86 Tasman Terrace or visit: www.parks.sa.gov.au

Ceduna Natural Resources Centre will open until 5:00pm Friday 22 Dec, and then closed over the Christmas / New Year’s period.

The office will reopen 9:00am on Tuesday 2 January 2018.

For enquiries relates to an online parks booking during the closure period, please emailDEWNR.OnlineBookings@sa.gov.auand one of our friendly staff members will respond to you as soon as possible.