Knuckey Lagoons Conservation Reserve
Overview
This Reserve is an important wildlife habitat within a semi-urban setting. The Reserve contains four natural depressions of varying size that fill with water and at times combine to form one large body of water covering approximately 54 ha.
The Reserve also protects areas of cultural significance. The Larrakia people speak for this land.
The Aboriginal values relate to the past and present use of the Reserve by Aboriginal people. The historical values of the Reserve relate to its use as a recreational area by Darwin residents and the use of the Reserve by the defence forces during World War II.
How to Get There
The Reserve is located 12 kms South East of Darwin City Centre. Access is off Lagoon Road (Randall Road) or McMillans Road (Fiddlers Lane).
When to Visit
The Reserve is accessible all year round. Visitors need to be aware that vehicle access into the Reserve is not available.
What to See and Do
Bird watching and other wildlife observation is the main activity.
Visitor Facilties
There are no visitor facilities provided.
Please Remember
Safety and comfort
- Observe park safety signs.
- Carry and drink plenty of water.
- Wear a shady hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Wear suitable clothing and footwear.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the heat of the day.
- Beware of theft, lock vehicles and secure valuables.
Please remember
- Put your rubbish in the bin or take it away with you.
- Keep to designated roads and tracks.
- All cultural items and wildlife are protected.
- Pets are not permitted in this Reserve.
- Nets, traps and firearms are not permitted.
- No fires are permitted.
- Camping is not permitted.
- Check that your vehicle is not transporting pests like weeds and Cane Toads.
Scenic and Cultural Features
The scenic values of the Reserve are the views of water and the water lillies during the wet season. The views of bird life that congregate around the lagoons as they subside during the dry season are a highlight for bird enthusiasts.
The Reserve has been used and is still used by Aboriginal people for collecting traditional food.
The area was used by the military during World War II as a radar station. Some remnants of this structure still remain.
Plants and Animals
The Reserve provides an important habitat for Magpie Geese, the Little Curlew, Egrets and the Long Necked Turtle. A number of fish and reptile species have been recorded in the Reserve.
The vegetation in the Reserve consists predominantly of closed grasslands with low open woodlands surrounding the lagoons and swamp areas. Pandanus, Lophosternon and Eucalyptus species are found in patches within the Reserve.
