Illamurta Springs Conservation Reserve
Overview
|
This is one of the most peaceful and isolated Reserves in the Parks and Wildlife Service's estate. It's natural values are due to the impressive southern foothills of the James Range and the presence of a permanent natural spring.
The site provides a moist habitat for several relict aquatic plant species and it protects the ruins of the Illamurta Springs Police Station.
How to Get There
Located 192km from Alice Springs, access to the Reserve is via the Stuart Highway and Ernest Giles Road, or from Palm Valley via the Finke River 4WD Route. The Ernest Giles Road and access tracks are unsealed, sandy and occasionally closed following heavy rain. The tracks are 4WD only, due to their unstable and changing road surfaces.
When to visit
The Reserve is accessible all year round except after rain. The cooler months, from April to September, are the most pleasant times to visit.
What to See and Do
Walking, nature appreciation and photography.
Visitor Facilties
Currently there are no visitor facilities provided at Illamurta Springs and the use of fire here is prohibited.
Camping is not permitted on the Reserve. Camping facilities are available at the nearby Ilpurla Aboriginal Community.
Please Remember
Pets are not permitted in the Reserve, and Fire is prohibited.
Fact Sheet
Recreational Activities
The Reserve offers visitors recreational activities including walking, nature appreciation and photography. The Reserve also provides the opportunity for Aboriginal culture and European history appreciation.
- 4 x 4 Driving
- Walking Tracks
Scenic and Cultural Features
The Illamurta Springs Police Station was operational between 1893 and 1912. The establishment of the Station was a reaction to Aboriginal resistance, in the form of spearing cattle, to pastoral settlement in the area.
After the cattle spearing had been subdued the Police Station functioned for some time as an administrative point of rations for Aboriginal people.
This site is important to the mythology of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people as it forms part of the extensive 'Kunnea-Snake' (Python) Dreaming. A large number of stone artefacts, including fragments of grindstones, occur in the Reserve providing evidence of occupation.
