Fresh trail trek headlines new reservoir partnerships

A new aquaculture education program for students at Yankalilla Area School, a not-for-profit trail running group and an inaugural ‘SANTA Dash’ community fun run are the successful recipients of financial support announced today as part of SA Water’s 2022-23 Reservoirs Partnership Program.

This year, the program is providing a total of $23,000 in funding to help community groups host events or projects at South Australia’s reservoir reserves open for recreational access.

Trail Running SA Acting Chairperson Peter Grigg said the funding will enable the group to expand their events into the reservoir reserves.

“Through the support of SA Water, we’re delighted to deliver a new trail running experience for our community by tapping into the stunning, yet challenging, trails on offer across the state’s reservoir reserves,” Peter said.

“It will build on our popular Mount Crawford event in August – featuring distances for people of all ages and abilities – which has previously included Warren Reservoir Reserve’s eastern trails.

“We’re now looking to design a new event for the upcoming season by leveraging our funding as part of this partnership, exploring opportunities at the southern reservoir reserves such as Happy Valley or Mount Bold.

“Connecting people with nature through exercise inspires greater health and wellbeing outcomes for the community and we can’t wait share details about the opportunity with our more than 600 members.”

Among the other successful recipients include Yankalilla Area School with a sustainable aquaculture program focused on Myponga Reservoir Reserve, and the Williamstown Action Group, who held their inaugural SANTA Dash fun run through parts of South Para Reservoir Reserve in December last year.

SA Water’s General Manager of Strategy, Engagement and Innovation Nicola Murphy said she was most excited by Yankalilla Area School’s aquaculture program, which typified the value of educating the next generation on conservation.

“The school’s program harnesses the educational opportunities for young people around environment and sustainability at our reservoir reserves, and we’re thrilled to see Myponga play this role in their curriculum,” Nicola said.

“Our partnership will see the students raise Murray cod fingerlings until they are ready to be released in the reservoirs and conduct studies on fish numbers, as well as exploring the science behind water quality.”

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