BELAIR : OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE

Time : 1 hour, Distance : 2.5 km

OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE


A lovely morning, and we decide to walk another of the Belair Park trails.  This time we are investigating the western end of the Park.  This part is more 'civilized'; on the other hand it is rather flatter!  We start at the main gate off Upper Sturt Road.

• 1  The entrance is easy to spot, and is guarded by the old Western Lodge.

• 2  We follow the road to the left, and climb a set of steps.

• 3  At the top we find the beautiful Lake Playford, although it is clear from our approach that this is actually a constructed dam.

• 4  Never mind, it is still beautiful, and a haven for many water birds.

• 5  A noisy cockatoo keeps an eye on our approach.

• 6  The Lake is in reflective mood this morning.

• 7  Leaving the Lake, we follow Gooch Road and Queen’s Jubilee Drive towards Old Government House.  The walking here is less interesting, although we do find some pretty spring flowers along the way.

• 8  These are the prettiest!

• 9  Or these?  I wish I had more botanical knowledge.

• 10  We come to Old Government House – a part of South Australian history.

• 11  An indoor pool?  It's alright for some!  Unfortunately you have to be here at special times to see through the old residence ...

• 12  ... so the casual visitor has to make do with a glimpse over the front gate.

• 13  Or the side gate!

•14  In fact there is something perversely interesting about not being able to have access. What dark secrets does this old house contain?

• 15  A kookaburra keeps careful watch.

• 16  We leave the rise on which Old Government House sits and start our return trip.

• 17  Crossing an adventure playground we pass this grizzled old warrior which has seen better days.

• 18  Following the Lorikeet Track, we walk through a patch of wild sweet peas.  Sweet peas are a favourite of mine, but the best thing is missing from these: the scent.

• 19  The Park contains mostly eucalypts, but there are exceptions.  The track here winds past many tennis courts, gas barbecues, and assorted shelters.

• 20  Here is an interesting final image of the Park's history.  It appears that alcohol has always been a problem for our society.

OLD GOVERNMENT HOUSE