National Trust of South Australia, South Australia

$30,950 to Wilabalangaloo, You and Our Riverland Environment

Mr Ian Stephenson, Chief Executive Officer www.nationaltrustsa.org.au

Wilabalangaloo is located on the northern banks of the Murray River on the outskirts of Berri in the South Australian Riverland. The site has a natural high heritage value, with imposing ochre limestone cliffs, spectacular scenery and diverse vegetation. Until recently the site had been used as a local history museum and nature reserve. The site forms part of the Riverland Regional Strategy, which aims to promote the unique stories of the Riverland. The National Trust, with support from The George Alexander Foundation, has created a new vision for Wilabalangaloo within the context of the Regional Strategy. Funding from the Foundation will allow the site to be used to interpret both the pre-European heritage and post-settlement influences on the environment. Utilising a heritage trail and actively conserving the natural heritage of the site, the project will provide public interpretation and access to the unique landscapes, geology, vegetation and fauna of the area.

The project has a strong volunteer component with the creation of a local volunteer partnership to assist with the management and conservation of the site. The National Trust is also determined to increase educational opportunities for local young people and build on regional tourism.