Our Natural Environment - Michael Perry Reserve

On the banks of Second Creek, tucked away in Stonyfell, is a very special place, sometimes called ‘the hidden gem of Burnside’.

Michael Perry Botanic Reserve is a small wonderland, a place we have been working hard to restore to its former glory.

Once choked with weeds, the creek is now lined by indigenous species of plants. Reeds, rushes and silky tea trees provide habitat for small birds like superb fairy wrens. The waters abound with frogs and yabbies, food for resident kookaburras, cormorants and white-faced herons.

On the hillside, the indigenous woodland is being restored and native wildflowers flourish, reminiscent of the times when the area was managed by the Kaurna First Nation’s people.

In this sheltered valley there is an historic garden, which was once part of the Clifton Estate, the original house can still be seen high on the hill.

Plantings of exotic trees, some dating from the 1870s, form the backbone of the garden. Exotic palms, pines, araucarias, oaks and cypress tower above the valley.

However in recent times the garden fell into disrepair with woody weeds and other feral species taking over, while many of the stately trees are reaching the end of their natural lives.

In 2019 Council produced an ‘Historic Garden Adaptation Plan’ to guide the revitalisation of the garden and retain its character as a botanically significant collection.

Volunteers toiled on garden beds and pathways, weeds were cleared and over 250 species of specimen trees and plants were planted.

These plantings will ensure that the garden and its unique environment continues to grow and retain its status as a very special place in Burnside.

If you haven’t been there for a while, take a stroll along the Second Creek walking trail and discover Burnside’s hidden gem.