Kaurna shelter tree revival

A Willawilla Karra Kuu (Kaurna shelter tree) estimated to be over 450 years old has been given a second wind after prolonged land management efforts from several groups. The tree-saving initiative started by the Brownhill Creek Conservation Group in 2018, has been contributed to by local school students and volunteers who have planted around 2,800 native plants around the creek area. The tree is a significant feature of Wirraparinga (Brownhill Creek) which had become inundated by introduced woods and a damaged root system from the digging of a local trench. Kaurna Elder, Auntie Lynette Crocker, lead the planting of 200 Yam Daisies which were vital in healing the undergrowth of the tree and surrounding area. Due to the hollowed-out nature of the tree she suggests it would have been used by Kaurna Ancestors for shelter in the past or possibly for storing items. "I wish we had a USB we could put into the tree so that it could tell its story," Auntie Lynette said. We spoke with Auntie Lynette ahead of a celebration for Kaurna shelter tree on November 6.