Roachdale Reserve
In a region extensively cleared for agriculture, Roachdale Reserve protects a rare piece of native bushland containing one of the few remaining stands of Long-leaved box forest, once widespread in the Mount Lofty Ranges. The reserve is traversed by a creek with deep pools which provide a summer source of water for a variety of wildlife. The reserve contains a wide diversity of plant species (225 indigenous to the area) including 32 of conservation significance. It also provides habitat for four birds of conservation significance and a Rare indigenous cricket.
The best time to visit is in spring or early summer when the wildflowers like orchids and lilies are out in full show.
History
Roachdale Reserve was one of the first natural heritage sites donated to the National Trust of South Australia (by Miss Hilda Roach in March 1957).
Management
The Reserve is managed by an on-site Reserve Officer with assistance from the Roachdale Management Committee. Meetings and working bees are held once every two months. The major task for the committee is to restore the bushland by removing introduced weeds that threaten bird, animal and plant habitat.
Location
Roachdale Reserve is about 2.5 km NW of Kersbrook.
Follow the main road from Kersbrook towards Williamstown. The reserve is on the left side of the road about 2.5km from the centre of Kersbrook at the corner with Wattle Road. A parking area is opposite the reserve on the right side of the road and entry is through the gate a few metres along Wattle Road.
Latitude-longitude -34.765,138.868
View Google map
Walking
A brochure (available at the entrance and from the National Trust head office) will guide you around a walking track showing points of interest. The walk is about 1.5 km long, with gentle slopes. Allow 1 hour to do the loop. Visit the Nature Trail Facebook page:
Open
The site is open daily but CLOSED during the Mt Lofty Ranges Fire Ban Season
Enquiries
Natural Heritage Manager, National Trust of South Australia
Details
Features:
Nature Reserve
District: Kersbrook
Operating Days: MTWTFSS