Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve

Welcome to Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve, located in Sheidow Park, South Australia, within the City of Marion. This establishment is not just your average park, but a regional playground that offers a range of amenities and natural wonders for visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve is its two small playgrounds, which are conveniently situated along a shared walking and cycling path that is part of the famous Coast to Vines Rail Trail. As you explore this idyllic reserve, you will also come across a charming duck pond and ample opportunities for nature play.

The Council has recently undergone a transformation of Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve, resulting in an upgraded and enhanced experience for visitors. The reserve now boasts two new playgrounds, a pump track, fitness equipment, as well as the restoration of the pond and creek. These improvements were officially unveiled during the grand opening held on August 28, 2022.

To ensure community input, the Council engaged in extensive consultation through the Making Marion initiative. This included the draft concept plan, which was reviewed and endorsed by the Marion Council in June 2021. The State Government also provided matching funding through the Open Space and Places for People grant program, allowing for the construction of the reserve upgrade in December 2021.

While the amenities and playgrounds are certainly appealing, the true allure of Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve lies in its natural elements that promote nature play. Throughout the reserve, you will discover rocky creek beds to explore and traverse, with wooden bridges providing access to both sides of the reserve at regular intervals. At the south-western end, large logs add an extra touch of adventure.

The reserve's duck pond serves a dual purpose, not only providing a picturesque focal point but also acting as a storm-water retention basin to mitigate flooding in the area. The surrounding grassy hills attract plovers, while Noisy Miners and Magpies have made themselves at home in the reserve.

For those seeking a challenge, the north-eastern side of the reserve features a set of large spaced-out boulders that offer a unique opportunity for balance and coordination, akin to nature's parkour. The reserve is also adorned with a mix of native and introduced trees, with autumn visitors treated to a vibrant display of multi-colored leaves and blooming Chinese Elms.

To ensure your comfort during your visit, bench seats and picnic tables are scattered throughout the reserve, strategically placed in cool shady areas or near the play equipment. Additionally, a BBQ is available on the southern side for those looking to enjoy a delicious outdoor meal.

While there are no toilets at Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve, visitors can easily access facilities at Southbank Boulevard Reserve, just a short 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, toilets can be found further along the Coast to Vines Rail Trail at Glade Crescent Reserve in Hallett Cove.

Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve is part of a network of parks and playgrounds along the Coast to Vines Rail Trail. So, take your time and explore the other parks along your journey, including Hallett Close Reserve, Morford Reserve, Montague Drive Reserve, and Sandy Glass Court Reserve.

For those looking for a unique experience, we invite you to try your hand at Stacking Stones, a meditative activity that allows you to find your inner zen and create stunning formations with a little practice.

For more information or to connect with us, please contact us at T 08 8375 6600, F 08 8375 6699, or via email at council@marion.sa.gov.au. Our postal address is PO Box 21, Park Holme, South Australia, 5043, Australia.

We look forward to welcoming you to Hugh Johnson Boulevard Reserve, where nature and play seamlessly come together for a truly memorable experience.