Old Port Canal Reserve features a welcomed setting providing areas for community connection on the seating and picnic areas. The reserve has public lighting and pathway with a short walk to the shopping centre or towards the river at Joyce Snadden Reserve.
Historic Reserve Information
The canal involved extending the Tam O'Shanter Creek named after the migrant vessel (pictured) that ran aground in 1836. In 1889 the Port Adelaide Canal also called the Portland Canal was created to be 70 metres long and 45 metres wide, with a 6 metres depth at low tide. The canal stopped at Commercial Road where the flour mills were situated. In 1954 the canal was started to be filled in and in 1980 the area became known as Port Canal Shopping Centre and Old Port Canal Reserve.
Dog Rules at this Location
Across the City of Port Adelaide Enfield there is many great open spaces where dogs can be exercised and enjoyed with their owners, to find out about restrictions at this location, check out our Dog Leash Map for more details.
Reserve History
This reserve, in conjunction with Joyce Snadden Reserve was revitalised to improve inclusion, safety and visibility across the sites and creating better connections with Yitpi Yartapuultiku Aboriginal Cultural Centre. It also included new walking and cycling pathways, improved access to the waterfront for launching of kayaks/canoes and open space activation, including picnic and socialisation spaces. The revitalised Old Port Canal Reserve was opened by Mayor Claire Boan on 14 November 2025.