Recently opened Happy Valley Reservoir attracts over 50,000 visitors

The South Australian Government’s ‘Opening up our Reservoirs’ program has seen more than 50,000 people visiting Happy Valley Reservoir in less than a month since it opened for recreational access.

For the first time in 120 years the gates at Happy Valley Reservoir were unlocked on 11th December, with visitors now able to enjoy a range of land and water-based recreational activities such as kayaking, fishing, cycling, hiking and picnicking.

Happy Valley Reservoir is now a key part of the Glenthorne National Park precinct adding more green, open space in the southern suburbs.

Overall visitor numbers to South Australian reservoirs since the program started at Myponga Reservoir in April 2019 have been reported as more than 400,000.

SA Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs notes “Happy Valley Reservoir now features a 20-kilometre trail network for walking, running and bike riding, 110 hectares of water for kayaking and fishing, as well as new amenities such as two kayak launch areas, on-site car parking, barbecues, picnic shelters, a boardwalk and lookout offering stunning views over the water.

“More than 1,000 catch-ready Murray Cod have been released into the reservoir to ensure there is a quality fishing experience from day one and a ‘Golden Fish’ competition has also been launched with lucky anglers vying for $900 worth of prizes thanks to local business How’s YA Tackle.

“To have 50,000 people visit Happy Valley Reservoir in less than a month is an incredible result and shows just how popular this new recreational and environmental haven just south of the CBD is.

“People continue to ask me why this wonderful place has been locked up for more than 120 years and I am just thrilled we’ve finally been able to let people in behind the fences.

“Adelaide has been recognised as the third most liveable city in the world as well as recently becoming the world’s second National Park City and it’s projects such as this that will continue to enhance this reputation.”

For more information about recreational access at South Australia’s reservoirs  visit www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au. https://www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au/