Wara Wayingga-Tennyson Dunes Conservation Reserve

Formed over thousands of years, these dunes were host to vibrant natural ecosystems and played a critical role in protecting inland areas from storm-caused sea intrusions. Left to their own devices, the dunes naturally eroded and replenished through a seasonal cycle driven by wind and wave action. This process served the area for eons until houses and industry began to cover the big peaks. Now we mimic nature, by replenishing our beaches, in order to sustain the beach-side lifestyle we have come to love. Everywhere, that is, except for here at Tennyson where nature continues to do what it does best. This area is the Country of the Kaurna (pronounced ‘Gar-na’) people. Kaurna people are the Traditional Owners and custodians of the Adelaide Plains, an area that stretches from Cape Jervis in the south, Crystal Brook in the north, Mount Lofty Ranges to the east and Gulf St Vincent in the west. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Aboriginal communities of the Tennyson area and ask that you show respect for Country during your visit to the Tennyson Dunes.