For just the fourth time in 160 years floodwaters are filling Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, creating a dream scenario for ecologists and tourism operators alike.
Floodwaters from southwest Queensland and northeast South Australia are making their way to the lake – the lowest point in Australia at 15m below sea level – transforming the dry salt bed into a spectacular outback oasis.
The full inundation of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre will rejuvenate the salt lake’s crust, the wildlife and the surrounding vegetation.
When the waters rise, a huge variety of species, many of them rare, spring to life or are attracted to the lake, which covers about 9500sq km and is co-managed with the Arabana people.
Brine shrimp hatch from eggs in the dry soil, millions of waterbirds and breeding birds from as far as China and Japan migrate to the lake, and fish that are in the floodwaters spawn and eat the shrimp.
The best way to see the lake and the hundreds of species of birdlife that it attracts is from the air, but visitors can witness the spectacle of the lake from dedicated viewing points within the park.
Camping is available at Halligan Bay Point Campground, which is located on the shores of the lake and has limited facilities, including toilets and picnic sh
elters. Alternative camping is available at Muloorina Bore, north of Marree.
A new park management plan ensures visitors can enjoy the lake safely while helping to conserve and protect its environmental and cultural values.
Recreational activities including swimming, driving off designated tracks, boating and landing aircraft, are restricted under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972.
NWPS District Ranger Travis Gotch said that while visiting Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre was a unique experience, it was one that needed careful planning and preparation.
"Know where you’re staying, drive to the conditions and make sure that you have enough food, water and resources to fully enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime trip," Mr Gotch said.
He said Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre was a "special place" that deserved to be "seen but also to be preserved".
"Visitors can help by staying on marked tracks, taking all litter home and respecting the cultural significance of the lake and surrounds," Mr Gotch said.
"Water will start to find its way into the north lake in early May and there will be varying water levels for up to 6 months. The best times to visit would be between May and October."
For more information on Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park, including camping, click here (external site).
Check the latest Desert Parks Bulletin (external site) before planning your trip and prepare thoroughly for outback travel with a 4WD and plenty of supplies.
