New Minkarra Park path provides missing link

A new 700-metre shared-use path in Flagstaff Hill was officially opened yesterday, connecting two much-loved trails and reserves for the first time.

Made possible with the support of Erin Thompson, Member for Davenport, and $1 million from the state government, the new Minkarra Park Link Path has unlocked an area between the north and south sections of Minkarra Park, creating an uninterrupted trail from Black Road to Chandlers Hill Road.

City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were joined Erin Thompson, Premier Peter Malinauskas and local residents at the new trail yesterday to celebrate its much-anticipated completion.

“Minkarra’s northern and southern sections contain walking trails, a skate park, playgrounds, exercise equipment, a toilet, dog park, and extensive bushland providing a haven for wildlife, and collectively the park has long held a special place in our community's heart,” she said.

“Until now, these sections have been separated by the Flagstaff Hill Golf Club course, which hindered safe and convenient travel between them.

“The new Minkarra Park Link Path has successfully bridged this gap, integrating with existing trails in each reserve, expanding our overall trail network, and creating more opportunities for pedestrians and cyclists to stay healthy, active and connected.

“Thoughtful planning of the trail’s route, coupled with initiatives like weed control, revegetation, interpretive signage, and bushland protection fencing, will also significantly contribute to the area’s biodiversity, better linking up areas of habitat for wildlife.

“A huge thankyou to the state government, Peter Malinauskas and Erin Thompson for their advocacy and the $1 million in funding through the Communities Infrastructure Grants Program.

“A special shout-out to the Rotary Club for hosting the opening event’s BBQ and for their tireless dedication and advocacy for Minkarra Park and its trail network over the years.

“Lastly, heartfelt thanks to the Flagstaff Hill Golf Club committee for their cooperation and patience throughout the planning and implementation of these transformative works.”

The new path can be accessed by entering the existing trail in the north from either Black Road or Reservoir Drive, or from the existing trail in the south from Manning Road.

It includes two boardwalk sections, which have eliminated the need for stairs and allowed better access to more people. The trail also includes safety fencing alongside one of the golf course tee-off sections, and revegetation works with native plants that will commence in June.

A view of one of the boardwalks at the new Minkarra Park Link Path.

Erin Thompson MP, Premier Peter Malinauskas and Mayor Moira Were smile while standing on the new Minkarra Path Link Path. Two smiling women stand alongside the new Minkarra Park Link Path trail signage. A large crowd gather to hear speeches at the launch of the Minkarra Park Link Path. Rotary Club members cook a barbecue for the community in attendance during the Minkarra Park Link Path opening.