The Pithi Kawi Bush Food Garden,
where Nature and tradition unite

The Pithi Kawi Bush Food Garden stands as a remarkable outdoor space where culture and nature intersect. This 2-kilometre walking trail meanders along Pinkerton Creek, offering an enriching experience of local Aboriginal heritage and native flora.

The garden has evolved into a cherished community asset that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Understanding the Pithi Kawi Heritage

The garden’s name holds deep cultural significance, combining Nukunu words ‘Pithi’ (bark dish) and ‘Kawi’ (water). Nukunu people, traditional custodians of the Quorn region and Southern Flinders Ranges, maintain strong connections to this land. Ancient redgum trees along Pinkerton Creek bear distinctive scars, marking where traditional bark dishes were crafted. These markings serve as enduring evidence of the continuous Aboriginal presence in the area.

The Natural Landscape and Native Flora

The walking trail showcases an extraordinary collection of native plants adapted to the central Flinders Ranges’ challenging conditions. These hardy species demonstrate remarkable resilience, thriving in extreme climates and nutrient-poor soils. The garden features plants historically used for sustenance, medicine, and ceremonial purposes.

For countless generations, the native plants of the Flinders Ranges have provided essential resources for Aboriginal peoples. Modern Australian cuisine continues to incorporate these traditional food sources, while the local farming industry benefits from the indigenous vegetation’s natural grazing potential.

Cultural Practices and Trading Routes

The Nukunu people’s traditional management of the land includes cultural burning practices, which maintain the health of the landscape and prevent devastating bushfires. This area held particular significance as part of an extensive trading network, with the nearby Pichi Richi Pass serving as a major route for the trade of Pituri, a valued narcotic substance.

Accessibility and Trail Features

A concrete path ensures universal access throughout the walking trail. The route passes several local landmarks, including the Quorn Community Oval, Memorial Hall, and Grandstand. The path loops back to the Quorn and District War Memorial Swimming Pool, connecting seamlessly with Railway Terrace.
The garden continues to evolve as an important educational facility, sharing first nations history of the Nukunu peoples. The presence of various Aboriginal nations in modern Quorn enriches this cultural landscape, with many Thura-speaking peoples sharing similar plant and animal names with the Nukunu language.

Summary

The Pithi Kawi Bush Food Garden represents a harmonious blend of cultural heritage, environmental education, and community space. Through thoughtful design and interpretation, this walking trail preserves and shares Nukunu cultural knowledge while providing an accessible outdoor experience for all. The garden stands as a living testament to the enduring connection between the land, its traditional custodians, and the broader community, offering insights into sustainable land management practices that have sustained the region for millennia.
The trail’s accessibility, combined with its rich cultural and botanical significance, creates an engaging experience that connects past and present, demonstrating how traditional knowledge continues to influence and enrich contemporary life in Quorn.

For more information:

Web: Flinders Ranges Council
Address: Silo Road, Quorn, SA