Although it is now encompassed by suburbs, it still retains a relatively semi-rural character due to retention of native flora and vegetation surrounding the Happy Valley Reservoir, as well as parklands and golf courses along its border.

[citation needed] Originally known by the Kaurna name of "Warekila" meaning 'place of changing winds', Happy Valley, a source suggested, was given its name by Edward Burgess, one of the first settlers in the area.

[citation needed] By 1866, Happy Valley was described as 'an agricultural settlement lying near Dashwood's Gully, a good district road connecting the two places.

[citation needed] Following construction of the reservoir, the original Happy Valley township, school and cemetery were completely flooded requiring their relocation.

[4] Myths abound that the spire of the original church steeple protrudes from the water when the Happy Valley reservoir's capacity is low, and that the town exists, submerged in the depths.

[5] Staff responsible for the site at the time of the rumoured church sightings explain that a pump frame was then installed in the location in question which was visible at low water.

[7] With the lowering of the water level during renovations exposing the original Happy Valley township for the first time, archaeologists took the opportunity to excavate the site.

On average Happy Valley CFS will respond to over 250+ calls per year ranging from fixed alarms and structure fires to major bushfires and strike team deployments.