In a significant move to enhance the environment and wildlife conservation in South Australia, Mundoo Island Station will be converted into a critical wetland habitat and integrated into the Coorong National Park. Facilitated through the partnership between the State and Federal Governments and the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife, this move hopes to secure a sustainable future for the region’s biodiversity.
Mundoo Island Station is a 1900-hectare cattle and sheep property situated at the conclusion of the River Murray just south of Goolwa, and will see a complete cessation of stock grazing, cropping, and fertiliser application. This action is part of a broader initiative to facilitate extensive wetland restoration and support native and migratory bird species, including the critically endangered curlew sandpiper and far eastern curlew.
Through this acquisition, the Coorong National Park’s area will increase to over 50,000 hectares, incorporating Mundoo, Ewe, and Long Islands as well as other islets off the eastern tip of Hindmarsh Island. This expansion is particularly vital as it encompasses the Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Ramsar Wetland, a key wetland site in Australia.
Transitioning Mundoo Island Station into a national park highlights the government’s dedication to conservation. There will be a focus on the culturally significant lands and the reestablishment of threatened fish species, including the Yarra pygmy perch and the Murray hardyhead. With the integration of Lawari Conservation Park and the development of a new management plan, a strong foundation is set for enhanced management and conservation efforts.
Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia, shared, “Situated at the junction of the Ramsar wetlands of Lake Alexandrina, the Coorong and the Murray Mouth, this is a significant site of biodiversity, cultural and environmental significance. By transforming the island from a grazing property into a park, we can help restore the environment, protect threatened and endangered species, and improve water quality.”
Senator the Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water, shared, “Mundoo Island is a unique mix of island ecosystems with salt water of the Coorong and fresh water of the River Murray. The Albanese Government’s investment through the Enhanced Shorebirds and Wetland Habitat Project and the Protecting Important Biodiversity Areas Program will enable significant wetland restoration and rehabilitation of this important site.”
Lucy Hood, South Australian Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, added, “This is a globally significant addition to our state’s growing parks network. Land long used for cattle and sheep grazing will be given an incredible opportunity to regenerate and strengthen a vital wetlands system. More habitat will be provided, and protected, for key fish and bird species that attract visitors with spectacular displays. By transforming this site, we have moved to improve environmental resilience, reduce nutrient input and boost water quality.”
This progressive transformation of Mundoo Island into part of the Coorong National Park not only preserves its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage but also strengthens South Australia’s commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation.
