Nangawooka Floral Reserve: Ron is knocked out by the beauty of the oasis of Aussie colour in the Fleurieu Peninsula region of South Australia

On the outskirts of Victor Harbor sits a small reserve dedicated to the diversity of the Australian bush. Nangawooka, which is an Aboriginal word meaning 'place of springs' is an oasis of Aussie colour.

First established by the International Zonta Club of the Fleurieu Peninsula in 1982 it was formerly a cow paddock. Now it's home to 2,000 plants. It's also Don Overall's home away from home - having worked here for nearly 3 decades.

Wander through Nangawooka Floral Reserve with Don and you're in good company. There's not much he doesn't know about the plants - after all, he planted a lot of them.

Don Overall, Nangawooka Floral Reserve: "Australian plants are often overlooked when it comes to planting gardens but since we've had the drought it's made a difference to the attention people have given to the native plants.

For gardeners who want to keep an eye on their water bills a visit to Nangawooka is a must because it shows how an Aussie native garden can look after one of the worst droughts in history.

Don Overall, Nangawooka Floral Reserve: "The park covers 2 hectares or 5 acres. Originally it was part of the Woods and Forest Department and we lobbied for this reserve to be retained by the City Council of Victor Harbor."

Nangawooka is a powerful demonstration of just how varied the Australian bush really is. We have 15,000 different plant varieties, 12,000 of which are found only in Australia.

Nangawooka holds a couple of plant sales each year - one in spring, the other in autumn. Details can be obtained from the Victor Council. Nangawooka is located on the outskirts of Victor on the Adelaide Road - opposite the Urrumbirra Wildlife Park. It's open daily. If you have any further questions please email info@postcards-sa.com.au

Nangawooka Floral Reserve
Adelaide Road
Victor Harbor
Open daily

Published 24th October 2010