Coorong National Park expanded by the acquisition of Mundoo Island Station

In a major boost for conservation, Mundoo Island Station is now set to become part of the nationally significant Coorong National Park, strengthening one of the Fleurieu’s most precious wetland systems.

Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu welcomes this important step for the Fleurieu region, which strengthens ecological health and cultural connections across our landscapes.

This decision, led by the State and Federal governments in partnership with the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife, marks a significant milestone for our region’s environment and cultural heritage. It ensures more habitat for endangered species, healthier waterways at the Murray Mouth, and protection of land that holds deep significance for the Ngarrindjeri people.

Located just south of Goolwa, Mundoo Island Station sits at the end of the River Murray and is part of the 142,500ha Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Ramsar Wetland – one of Australia’s most important wetland sites.

The cattle station will be transformed into vital wetland habitat and form part of a massively expanded national park, helping to protect endangered species, reduce nutrient runoff and improve environmental resilience across the Murray Mouth.

Improved habitat on Mundoo Island will support native shorebirds as well as dozens of migratory bird species, including the critically endangered curlew sandpiper and far eastern curlew, and also provides opportunities for the reintroduction of threatened fish species like the Yarra pygmy perch, Southern pygmy perch, Murray hardyhead and purple-spotted gudgeon.

Minister for Environment Lucy Hood MP said the acquisition increases the internationally recognised park to more than 50,000 hectares.

“Land long used for cattle and sheep grazing will be given an incredible opportunity to regenerate and strengthen a vital wetlands system,” she said. 

“More habitat will be provided, and protected, for key fish and bird species that attract visitors with spectacular displays.”

In addition to its environmental value, Mundoo Island is culturally significant to the Ngarrindjeri people and contains registered Aboriginal heritage sites.

Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Corporation Executive Officer Bill Wilson is looking forward to working in co-partnership with the State Government around the care and protection of Mundoo Island into the future.

“Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Corporation are genuinely excited by the State Government purchase of Mundoo Island, which holds significant cultural heritage to the Ngarrindjeri Nation,” he said.