Station News
2004 - 2013
November 2013
Does anyone remember those dogs being on the roads in this area? Where there were no ramps and when gates were removed to stop sheep going from one paddock to another on the main roads they used tin dogs. Carmel and Brendan can remember having to open gates on the road to Martins Well from Willow Springs and Carmel can remember these dogs being on Wilpena Station near Wood Duck Dam - National Park now of course. Well once the cars started to get faster and gates were removed, dogs were used instead until ramps came along. The Friends of the Flinders Ranges National Park have donated these to us to look after for them - another great history story to keep alive.
Skytrek Willow Springs Station was lucky enough to host two of the six winners of the Best Jobs in the World competition. Joined by Greg Snell and Allan Dixon along with Natalie, we were fortunate to show these lucky winners just a small piece of our backyard and learn a little about their 2 week road trip from Darwin to Adelaide.
We were also very excited this month to discover we had again been put on a bucket list this month. The Overlander 4WD Magazine name Skytrek one of the top ten Aussie off-road experiences. We were even more excited to discover we were the only South Australian track chosen and the only private track.
Does anyone remember those dogs being on the roads in this area? Where there were no ramps and when gates were removed to stop sheep going from one paddock to another on the main roads they used tin dogs. Carmel and Brendan can remember having to open gates on the road to Martins Well from Willow Springs and Carmel can remember these dogs being on Wilpena Station near Wood Duck Dam - National Park now of course. Well once the cars started to get faster and gates were removed, dogs were used instead until ramps came along. The Friends of the Flinders Ranges National Park have donated these to us to look after for them - another great history story to keep alive.
Skytrek Willow Springs Station was lucky enough to host two of the six winners of the Best Jobs in the World competition. Joined by Greg Snell and Allan Dixon along with Natalie, we were fortunate to show these lucky winners just a small piece of our backyard and learn a little about their 2 week road trip from Darwin to Adelaide.
We were also very excited this month to discover we had again been put on a bucket list this month. The Overlander 4WD Magazine name Skytrek one of the top ten Aussie off-road experiences. We were even more excited to discover we were the only South Australian track chosen and the only private track.
October 2013
4WD Action Magazine was proud to announce Skytrek Willow Springs Station on their bucket list of off-road tracks throughout Australia. A big thankyou to Brad Lock (Locky Lock) for voting us on the 4WD Action Facebook page. Also a very BIG thankyou to the Toyota Landcruiser Club of Adelaide under the guidance of Vince Monterola for the return of the club to complete the fantastic works done on McAlpine's Hut (a remittance man's place of residence, believed to be empty for several decades).
4WD Action Magazine was proud to announce Skytrek Willow Springs Station on their bucket list of off-road tracks throughout Australia. A big thankyou to Brad Lock (Locky Lock) for voting us on the 4WD Action Facebook page. Also a very BIG thankyou to the Toyota Landcruiser Club of Adelaide under the guidance of Vince Monterola for the return of the club to complete the fantastic works done on McAlpine's Hut (a remittance man's place of residence, believed to be empty for several decades).
August 2013
Did you see the brilliant story on Landline this month discussing the fossils in the Flinders Ranges? It even briefly featured our daughter Michelle discussing the impact that the education of fossils can have on locals such as ourselves. If you missed it check it out at http://www.abc.net.au/landline/content/2013/s3817544.htm
We were also very excited to be informed that we have been voted on of the 'Top 10 Outback Station Stays' in Australia by the Australian Geographic at http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/journal/view-image.htm?index=11&grid=14203
Did you see the brilliant story on Landline this month discussing the fossils in the Flinders Ranges? It even briefly featured our daughter Michelle discussing the impact that the education of fossils can have on locals such as ourselves. If you missed it check it out at http://www.abc.net.au/landline/content/2013/s3817544.htm
We were also very excited to be informed that we have been voted on of the 'Top 10 Outback Station Stays' in Australia by the Australian Geographic at http://www.australiangeographic.com.au/journal/view-image.htm?index=11&grid=14203
July 2013
Skytrek Willow Springs Station is proud to launch their new Guided 4WD Tours. Offering full day, half day, evening and extenda tours both on the property and in the surrounding areas - check out our Guided 4WD tours page on our website for more information or give us a call (08) 8648 0016
Skytrek Willow Springs Station is proud to launch their new Guided 4WD Tours. Offering full day, half day, evening and extenda tours both on the property and in the surrounding areas - check out our Guided 4WD tours page on our website for more information or give us a call (08) 8648 0016
June 2013
This week the Toyota Landcruiser Club of Adelaide are volunteering their time to restore a remittance man's place of residence on the property which is believed to have been empty for several decades. Skytrek Willow Springs Station would like to see the building restored rather tan to continue falling down as it has a substantial amount of stonework still standing. The club are expected to return later in the year to complete the works of the historical building.
Did you catch the brilliant 8 page editorial by Ron and Viv Moon in this month's 4X4 Australia Magazine? The write up featured Skytrek and the surrounding Flinders Ranges and had some fantastic photos of our new track along with other features found on Willow Springs Station.
This week the Toyota Landcruiser Club of Adelaide are volunteering their time to restore a remittance man's place of residence on the property which is believed to have been empty for several decades. Skytrek Willow Springs Station would like to see the building restored rather tan to continue falling down as it has a substantial amount of stonework still standing. The club are expected to return later in the year to complete the works of the historical building.
Did you catch the brilliant 8 page editorial by Ron and Viv Moon in this month's 4X4 Australia Magazine? The write up featured Skytrek and the surrounding Flinders Ranges and had some fantastic photos of our new track along with other features found on Willow Springs Station.
May 2013
The year has started well for our family, except for the lack of rainfall. Thankyou to all those who supported our business in 2012 adnw e look forward to meeting many visitors in 2013. Once again we attended the Adelaide Caravan and Camping Show which was a great marketing tool for our area. We have just completed shearing and after a reasonably busy period which included school holidays we are looking forward to a short break away.
The year has started well for our family, except for the lack of rainfall. Thankyou to all those who supported our business in 2012 adnw e look forward to meeting many visitors in 2013. Once again we attended the Adelaide Caravan and Camping Show which was a great marketing tool for our area. We have just completed shearing and after a reasonably busy period which included school holidays we are looking forward to a short break away.
October 2012
26th October - We are very proud to be a finalist of the Intercontinental Adelaide Sustainability Award for 2012. This award aims to recognise the outstanding achievements of regional South Australians for their adoption of sustainable measures and minimising their environmental footprint. Details of the award may be found on the Adelaide Advantage website. We'd also like to congratulate our daughter, Michelle Reynolds, on being a finalist for The Seniors Card Community Individual Award which aims to acknowledge individuals of any age, who have made outstanding contributions to their local community and who are an inspirational role model for the regional community, going above and beyond the call of duty and winning The Adelaide Showground Youth Award which aims to recognise and acknowledge those young South Australians who demonstrate outstanding leadership, acting as young ambassadors for the local community. |
11th October - This morning we woke with a surprise on our doorstep - Snow in the Flinders Ranges. White snow covered the peaks of the Bunkers Range and the entrance to Willow Springs Station was white instead of red. Campers have shown photos of tents and tables covered in snow.
September 2012
We are very pleased and proud to announce that 4WD Action Magazine (Issue #186) have featured Skytrek Willow Springs Station as #5 4WD Camping Destination in Australia in this months issue.
We are very pleased and proud to announce that 4WD Action Magazine (Issue #186) have featured Skytrek Willow Springs Station as #5 4WD Camping Destination in Australia in this months issue.
August 2012
Check out this month's issue of the Caravan and Motorhome Magazine (Issue #176) which features Willow Springs Station and Carmel Reynolds on their promotional DVD. A nice write up of the local Flinders Ranges area is also featured within the magazine.
Check out this month's issue of the Caravan and Motorhome Magazine (Issue #176) which features Willow Springs Station and Carmel Reynolds on their promotional DVD. A nice write up of the local Flinders Ranges area is also featured within the magazine.
April 2012
This month we officially opened our 3 caravan/camp sites near the Camp Kitchen and Shower Block. These un-powered sites will be useful for those wanting a bush experience with facilities nearby.
This month we officially opened our 3 caravan/camp sites near the Camp Kitchen and Shower Block. These un-powered sites will be useful for those wanting a bush experience with facilities nearby.
March 2012
Skytrek will be rerouted to stay exclusively on Willow Springs Station.
Brendan, Carmel and Michelle Reynolds would like to regretfully inform you that as of the 25th March 2012, Skytrek will be rerouted and stay exclusively on Willow Springs Station. This hard decision has been made due to an ongoing conflict with the Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby Preservation Association after the recent lease renewal fee was issued. Skytrek Willow Springs Station has made the difficult choice of not renewing the lease for the upcoming 5 years terminating access to the Bunkers Conservation Reserve and Mt Caernarvon, via Willow Springs Station, as of midnight on the 24th March 2012.
Skytrek will still operate and will have the same route up to marker 25 on the current track. From this point, the track will be diverted east onto old station roads and offer new views and attractions to be seen by the public. These attractions include ruins of old shepherd's huts, the 'original' Willow Springs waterhole, etc. Our new and exciting views are directed East and South and also include a brilliant view of Wilpena Pound.
The new track is approximately 79kms long and takes roughly 6hrs to complete. The track will be operating as of the 25th March 2012 and will $65 per vehicle. Registration of the general public will still be available at Wilpena Pound Resort, Rawnsley Park Station, FRABS, Blinman Heritage Mine Office and Willow Springs Station. The Skytrek Willow Springs Station office opens at 8am and all vehicles must be ont he track no later than 10:30am.
Don't forget, souvenirs are available in the Skytrek Willow Springs Station office and amenities are located nearby for your use. We would like to thank you all for your ongoing support of Skytrek Willow Springs Station and look forward to seeing you all at the Willow Springs Station to try the new and improved Skytrek.
Skytrek will be rerouted to stay exclusively on Willow Springs Station.
Brendan, Carmel and Michelle Reynolds would like to regretfully inform you that as of the 25th March 2012, Skytrek will be rerouted and stay exclusively on Willow Springs Station. This hard decision has been made due to an ongoing conflict with the Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby Preservation Association after the recent lease renewal fee was issued. Skytrek Willow Springs Station has made the difficult choice of not renewing the lease for the upcoming 5 years terminating access to the Bunkers Conservation Reserve and Mt Caernarvon, via Willow Springs Station, as of midnight on the 24th March 2012.
Skytrek will still operate and will have the same route up to marker 25 on the current track. From this point, the track will be diverted east onto old station roads and offer new views and attractions to be seen by the public. These attractions include ruins of old shepherd's huts, the 'original' Willow Springs waterhole, etc. Our new and exciting views are directed East and South and also include a brilliant view of Wilpena Pound.
The new track is approximately 79kms long and takes roughly 6hrs to complete. The track will be operating as of the 25th March 2012 and will $65 per vehicle. Registration of the general public will still be available at Wilpena Pound Resort, Rawnsley Park Station, FRABS, Blinman Heritage Mine Office and Willow Springs Station. The Skytrek Willow Springs Station office opens at 8am and all vehicles must be ont he track no later than 10:30am.
Don't forget, souvenirs are available in the Skytrek Willow Springs Station office and amenities are located nearby for your use. We would like to thank you all for your ongoing support of Skytrek Willow Springs Station and look forward to seeing you all at the Willow Springs Station to try the new and improved Skytrek.
January 2012

Skytrek Media Release January 2012 |
October 2011
We are very pleased and proud to be the recipients of The Hames Sharley Sustainability Award for 2011. This award aims to recognise the outstanding achievemetns of regional South Australians for their adoption of sustainable measures and minimising their environmental footprint. Details of the award may be found on the Adelaide Advantage Website. |
May 2011
2010 ended up as a very productive year for Willow Springs - good rains, many visitors and happy families. Like the tourists, the rains are continuing to flow and the Flinders Ranges are looking spectacular. We are looking forward to the births of 2 more grandchildren in July and September.
2010 ended up as a very productive year for Willow Springs - good rains, many visitors and happy families. Like the tourists, the rains are continuing to flow and the Flinders Ranges are looking spectacular. We are looking forward to the births of 2 more grandchildren in July and September.
August 2010
14th August - We are proud to sponsor/support Sophie Burch (our 15year old niece from Port Augusta) representing Australia at the Oceania Judo Union Championships in Canberra. Good Luck Sophie.
13th August - We welcome our new grandson, Khobi Arthurson, born today to our daughter Naomi and husband Tim.
14th August - We are proud to sponsor/support Sophie Burch (our 15year old niece from Port Augusta) representing Australia at the Oceania Judo Union Championships in Canberra. Good Luck Sophie.
13th August - We welcome our new grandson, Khobi Arthurson, born today to our daughter Naomi and husband Tim.
July 2010
Carmel and Brendan would like to thank their family and friends and all their customers who have supported them during the recent stressful periods - while Skytrek was closed due to negotiations with the Conservation Reserve (and still an ongoing commitment) and after Brendan's heart attack.
Good rains have continued with recordings of over 11 inches (275mm) up to now. The Flinders Ranges should be a spectacular site this spring.
Carmel and Brendan would like to thank their family and friends and all their customers who have supported them during the recent stressful periods - while Skytrek was closed due to negotiations with the Conservation Reserve (and still an ongoing commitment) and after Brendan's heart attack.
Good rains have continued with recordings of over 11 inches (275mm) up to now. The Flinders Ranges should be a spectacular site this spring.
March 2010
It's ironic that 6 months ago we were battling dust storms and lack of water, but up to now we have had 5" of rain - all the tanks, dams and springs are full and after 8 or 9 years we have summer grasses making the countryside look spectacular. There was also quite a lot of flood damage done to the road through the gorge on Willow Springs but that has been rectified.
We are anticipating another great year and look forward to sharing this land with many visitors.
As our business is growing we feel the need for support and we are trialing, from end March, our first 'Grey Nomads' as staff.
We have enjoyed time with our grandchildren - Caleb and Maddison, over the summer months while it was quieter and are looking forward to the arrival of our 3rd grandchild in August this year (trouble is our daughter lives at Cooya Beach).
It's ironic that 6 months ago we were battling dust storms and lack of water, but up to now we have had 5" of rain - all the tanks, dams and springs are full and after 8 or 9 years we have summer grasses making the countryside look spectacular. There was also quite a lot of flood damage done to the road through the gorge on Willow Springs but that has been rectified.
We are anticipating another great year and look forward to sharing this land with many visitors.
As our business is growing we feel the need for support and we are trialing, from end March, our first 'Grey Nomads' as staff.
We have enjoyed time with our grandchildren - Caleb and Maddison, over the summer months while it was quieter and are looking forward to the arrival of our 3rd grandchild in August this year (trouble is our daughter lives at Cooya Beach).
November 2009
Congratulations to our second daughter, Naomi who today married Tim Arthurson at Newell Beach in Queensland and then celebrated (with the many family and friends who travelled to join them) at Sea Temple Golf and Country Club Port Douglas. Naomi and Tim live at Cooya Beach.
Congratulations to our second daughter, Naomi who today married Tim Arthurson at Newell Beach in Queensland and then celebrated (with the many family and friends who travelled to join them) at Sea Temple Golf and Country Club Port Douglas. Naomi and Tim live at Cooya Beach.
August 2009
Brendan and Carmel Reynolds have taken a bold new approach to 'Station' signage in the commissioning of an 'entrance sculpture/gateway' to their tourist operation at Willow Springs, accommodation and 4WD track 'Skytrek'.
George Aldridge, South Australian artist was commissioned to design, source local material, fabricate and install a sculptured 'signpost' for Willow Springs. The completed artwork, unveiled on 22nd August has attracted much interest from visitors to the region and we believe will become an iconic symbol of this landscape and its relationship with the wedge-tailed eagle 'WILDU' and secondly to introduce sculpture/artworks as an integral part of the Flinders Ranges tourism identity and an exciting new dynamic in the regions tourism experience.
George's Wing is testimony to the magic of eagles and their ability to inspire us.
The Wing in the Willow is an imposing gateway to a fantastic experience on Willow Springs Station, which has become a Flinders Ranges 'Must-Do'. It shows us how powerfully art and tourism can work together to capture the essence of our landscape, its spirit and the authentic experiences we can offer our visitors.
Brendan and Carmel Reynolds have taken a bold new approach to 'Station' signage in the commissioning of an 'entrance sculpture/gateway' to their tourist operation at Willow Springs, accommodation and 4WD track 'Skytrek'.
George Aldridge, South Australian artist was commissioned to design, source local material, fabricate and install a sculptured 'signpost' for Willow Springs. The completed artwork, unveiled on 22nd August has attracted much interest from visitors to the region and we believe will become an iconic symbol of this landscape and its relationship with the wedge-tailed eagle 'WILDU' and secondly to introduce sculpture/artworks as an integral part of the Flinders Ranges tourism identity and an exciting new dynamic in the regions tourism experience.
George's Wing is testimony to the magic of eagles and their ability to inspire us.
The Wing in the Willow is an imposing gateway to a fantastic experience on Willow Springs Station, which has become a Flinders Ranges 'Must-Do'. It shows us how powerfully art and tourism can work together to capture the essence of our landscape, its spirit and the authentic experiences we can offer our visitors.
February 2009
Funding was received under the 2008/2009 Tourism Development Fund to upgrade 'The Homestead' originally known as 'The Managers Residence' . A new kitchen and inside bathroom are a couple of the alterations made which make this home more serviceable and comfortable for our visitors. A Camp Kitchen has also been built for the convenience of our campers.
Funding was received under the 2008/2009 Tourism Development Fund to upgrade 'The Homestead' originally known as 'The Managers Residence' . A new kitchen and inside bathroom are a couple of the alterations made which make this home more serviceable and comfortable for our visitors. A Camp Kitchen has also been built for the convenience of our campers.
August 2008
On 16th August Environment Minister, Jay Weatherill launched the 'Gecko Fire Logs' for Flinders Management Services. Carmel and Brendan Reynolds are partners in this business with Bill and Jane McIntosh from Gum Creek Station near Blinman.
On 16th August Environment Minister, Jay Weatherill launched the 'Gecko Fire Logs' for Flinders Management Services. Carmel and Brendan Reynolds are partners in this business with Bill and Jane McIntosh from Gum Creek Station near Blinman.

Gecko Fire Logs Media Pack |
During the summer break of 2008/2009 an upgrade (including new kitchen and inside bathroom) will happen to the former Manager’s Residence now known as The Homestead. A Camp Kitchen will be built for the comfort and convenience of campers.
A Camp Kitchen will be built for the comfort and convenience of campers.
A Camp Kitchen will be built for the comfort and convenience of campers.
March 2008
We have pleasure in announcing the engagement of our second daughter Naomi to Tim Arthurson of Cooya Beach Qld. Tim surprised Naomi by taking her to Stokes Hill Lookout (a place that all our guests are encouraged to visit) for sunset with a bottle of red and nibbles and in a romantic style and atmosphere presented her with an engagement ring. The wedding is planned for Dec 2009.
We have pleasure in announcing the engagement of our second daughter Naomi to Tim Arthurson of Cooya Beach Qld. Tim surprised Naomi by taking her to Stokes Hill Lookout (a place that all our guests are encouraged to visit) for sunset with a bottle of red and nibbles and in a romantic style and atmosphere presented her with an engagement ring. The wedding is planned for Dec 2009.
September 2007
The Reynolds family would like to congratulate 4 couples who have just stayed in our Manager’s Residence on celebrating their 52nd Wedding Anniversaries. (208 years of wedded bliss in paradise!). They took part in each others weddings. Congratulations Carlene & Neville Schulz of Karoonda, Helen & Tom Hogan of Murray Bridge, Don & Val Carmichael of Maitland and Nathalie & Dene Polkinghorne of Maitland. Thank you all for choosing Willow Springs to help you celebrate. Best Wishes for the future.
The Reynolds family would like to congratulate 4 couples who have just stayed in our Manager’s Residence on celebrating their 52nd Wedding Anniversaries. (208 years of wedded bliss in paradise!). They took part in each others weddings. Congratulations Carlene & Neville Schulz of Karoonda, Helen & Tom Hogan of Murray Bridge, Don & Val Carmichael of Maitland and Nathalie & Dene Polkinghorne of Maitland. Thank you all for choosing Willow Springs to help you celebrate. Best Wishes for the future.
August 2007
We are proud to be part of the new "Flinders By Bike" Mountain Bike Trail now established. Flinders By Bike trail follows a 200km circuit from Rawnsley Park Station, Willow Springs Station, Gum Creek Station near Blinman in the North and returns to Rawnsley Park via Mawson Trail and Wilpena. Modeled on New Zealand’s Banks Peninsula Track, the trail will link parts of the Mawson Trail with an existing network of old pastoral trails on each property.
Thanks to the assistance of University Students and Conservation Volunteers Australia we now have 3 marked walking trails on our property.
1. Yacca Lookout Trail - 'Living in the Outback'
Experience life in the Outback. This 4.4km return trail walks you through various practices such as solar energy, natures ecosystem and fantastic views of the Station.
2. Reedy Creek Trail - 'Nature's Corridor'
Wonder at the natural beauty of the Flinders Ranges. This 8km return trail passes through different vegetation communities, aboriginal petroglyphs, vital water springs and spectacular scenery
3. Combined Interpretative Loop Trail
Combine the 2 above walks for a 12km one way walk.
4. Stokes Hill Lookout Trail
An alternative 5.5km one way walk to experience the fantastic views from such a great advantage point.
- We have had a visit from WA Hyfield Jaloran Stud Master with the new WA sales rep along with SA rep
- Filled in all the old wells on the property for Public Liability purposes.
- Major culls of stock have been carried out and we have started on a precision breeding program
- Watch for articles in October issue of Australian Geographic and mid September BMW Magazine New Zealand. See page 2 of the latest SA Flinders Ranges and Outback Guide for a fantastic view of the scenery on Mt Caernarvon and on Page 81the Outback Jackaroo - our son, Christopher.
We are proud to be part of the new "Flinders By Bike" Mountain Bike Trail now established. Flinders By Bike trail follows a 200km circuit from Rawnsley Park Station, Willow Springs Station, Gum Creek Station near Blinman in the North and returns to Rawnsley Park via Mawson Trail and Wilpena. Modeled on New Zealand’s Banks Peninsula Track, the trail will link parts of the Mawson Trail with an existing network of old pastoral trails on each property.
Thanks to the assistance of University Students and Conservation Volunteers Australia we now have 3 marked walking trails on our property.
1. Yacca Lookout Trail - 'Living in the Outback'
Experience life in the Outback. This 4.4km return trail walks you through various practices such as solar energy, natures ecosystem and fantastic views of the Station.
2. Reedy Creek Trail - 'Nature's Corridor'
Wonder at the natural beauty of the Flinders Ranges. This 8km return trail passes through different vegetation communities, aboriginal petroglyphs, vital water springs and spectacular scenery
3. Combined Interpretative Loop Trail
Combine the 2 above walks for a 12km one way walk.
4. Stokes Hill Lookout Trail
An alternative 5.5km one way walk to experience the fantastic views from such a great advantage point.
- We have had a visit from WA Hyfield Jaloran Stud Master with the new WA sales rep along with SA rep
- Filled in all the old wells on the property for Public Liability purposes.
- Major culls of stock have been carried out and we have started on a precision breeding program
- Watch for articles in October issue of Australian Geographic and mid September BMW Magazine New Zealand. See page 2 of the latest SA Flinders Ranges and Outback Guide for a fantastic view of the scenery on Mt Caernarvon and on Page 81the Outback Jackaroo - our son, Christopher.
November 2006
South Australian Tourism Award Skytrek Willow Springs Station is a proud Silver Medal recipient in the 2006 SA Tourism Awards in the "Adventure Tourism" category. The SA Tourism Awards are presented annually to recognise and promote excellence in the tourism industry. Silver medals are presented to entries of a high standard. |
April 2006
Shearer's Quarters renovations completed The 1940’s and 1960’s buildings are now renovated to accommodate up to 32 persons following 12 weeks of intensive work by builders, electricians and painters.
For those having stayed at the Shearer’s Quarters before the two buildings are now joined together and have 11 bedrooms, 6 showers, a laundry, an extended kitchen and a new common room that opens out onto a decked pergola. These buildings are a wonderful place for families, specialty groups, schools, colleges or just a group of friends to base themselves to visit the spectacular Flinders Ranges or simply to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Willow Springs Station.
Our grateful thanks to South Australian Tourism Commission for their Tourism Development Grant that supported this project.
Shearer's Quarters renovations completed The 1940’s and 1960’s buildings are now renovated to accommodate up to 32 persons following 12 weeks of intensive work by builders, electricians and painters.
For those having stayed at the Shearer’s Quarters before the two buildings are now joined together and have 11 bedrooms, 6 showers, a laundry, an extended kitchen and a new common room that opens out onto a decked pergola. These buildings are a wonderful place for families, specialty groups, schools, colleges or just a group of friends to base themselves to visit the spectacular Flinders Ranges or simply to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Willow Springs Station.
Our grateful thanks to South Australian Tourism Commission for their Tourism Development Grant that supported this project.
July 2005
Willow Springs has been successful in receiving funding through SA Tourism Development Fund to upgrade their Shearers Quarters to accommodate larger groups. This work will hopefully commence in November this year.
Wood Supply in the Flinders Ranges
Are you burning their homes to warm yours?
Evidence suggests that at least 20 bird species are threatened by firewood collection and other species are affected by the removal of dead wood, including mammals, reptiles, invertebrates and amphibians.
Firewood collection impacts on soil by removing the nutrients that keep it healthy - many species of invertebrates and fungi live on dead wood and help turn it into these nutrients.
Willow Springs discourages the collection of wood and has bags of wood for sale. This is a fundraiser for the local Area School.
Willow Springs has been successful in receiving funding through SA Tourism Development Fund to upgrade their Shearers Quarters to accommodate larger groups. This work will hopefully commence in November this year.
Wood Supply in the Flinders Ranges
Are you burning their homes to warm yours?
Evidence suggests that at least 20 bird species are threatened by firewood collection and other species are affected by the removal of dead wood, including mammals, reptiles, invertebrates and amphibians.
Firewood collection impacts on soil by removing the nutrients that keep it healthy - many species of invertebrates and fungi live on dead wood and help turn it into these nutrients.
Willow Springs discourages the collection of wood and has bags of wood for sale. This is a fundraiser for the local Area School.
June 2005
Marketing opportunities come up in the strangest of forms. Willow Springs Station was the host to a team of Shearers from Wales who were in Australia for the "International Golden Shears World Competition 2005" being held in Toowoomba from 8th -12th June.
Shearing at Willow Springs gave these shearers, including 2 who were Blade Shearing, the opportunity to practice, acclimatize and meet the locals. They found that shearing merinos is very different from Welsh crossbred, which only carry a third as much wool on the same size sheep. The Welsh wool is very coarse so they were very impressed with the softer, finer wool.
Team roustabouts, Bronwyn Tango and Alwen Eidda came 2nd at the Competition. It was a wonderful experience to have the Welsh team here and to find how their lifestyles had much in common with ours.
Marketing opportunities come up in the strangest of forms. Willow Springs Station was the host to a team of Shearers from Wales who were in Australia for the "International Golden Shears World Competition 2005" being held in Toowoomba from 8th -12th June.
Shearing at Willow Springs gave these shearers, including 2 who were Blade Shearing, the opportunity to practice, acclimatize and meet the locals. They found that shearing merinos is very different from Welsh crossbred, which only carry a third as much wool on the same size sheep. The Welsh wool is very coarse so they were very impressed with the softer, finer wool.
Team roustabouts, Bronwyn Tango and Alwen Eidda came 2nd at the Competition. It was a wonderful experience to have the Welsh team here and to find how their lifestyles had much in common with ours.
April 2005
Deepest sympathy to Tim Creasy and family, regular customers to the Overseer's Cottage, on the recent death of his father, Max. This family are great lovers of the Flinders Ranges.
Deepest sympathy to Tim Creasy and family, regular customers to the Overseer's Cottage, on the recent death of his father, Max. This family are great lovers of the Flinders Ranges.
July 2004
Completion of "Campsite and Amenities Block" project funded by South Australian Tourism Development Fund
Congratulations to Elizabeth and Ian Moody from Maitland who were married at Willow Springs on 8 May 2004. The ceremony was held at The Spring and the reception held in the woolshed. All catering was capably provided by members of the Hawker Community Sports Centre catering staff and helpers.
Best wishes to Callum and his new wife for the future. Callum celebrated his "buck's party" at Willow Springs on the May long weekend. Two of the guests arrived by helicopter.
50 years celebration! Congratulations to Rick Burge of Gawler who celebrated with guests at Willow Springs.
Solar pump for domestic water complements solar power at Willow Springs
Completion of "Campsite and Amenities Block" project funded by South Australian Tourism Development Fund
Congratulations to Elizabeth and Ian Moody from Maitland who were married at Willow Springs on 8 May 2004. The ceremony was held at The Spring and the reception held in the woolshed. All catering was capably provided by members of the Hawker Community Sports Centre catering staff and helpers.
Best wishes to Callum and his new wife for the future. Callum celebrated his "buck's party" at Willow Springs on the May long weekend. Two of the guests arrived by helicopter.
50 years celebration! Congratulations to Rick Burge of Gawler who celebrated with guests at Willow Springs.
Solar pump for domestic water complements solar power at Willow Springs