Regional park project is ‘staggering’

THE South West Catchment Council has celebrated a conservation milestone with its achievement of the Preston River to Ocean Regional Park Project.

Local and State government, community and Landcare representatives attended a celebratory presentation last week to touch on issues the project aimed to resolve and what it meant to engage with the community to protect South West land. Council chairwoman Christine Kershaw said the project’s outcomes were “staggering”.

More than 1350 people had been engaged, with 48 community events and activities held and 144ha of weed control undertaken, she said.

More than 7.5km of fencing had been installed, 51ha of rubbish removed, significant dieback control work completed and more than 29,000 native seedlings planted.

“It’s a credit to all involved, particularly the Bunbury community,” Mrs Kershaw said.

“We want the community to know what an asset this area is, and by pushing for it to be proclaimed as a Regional Park, will mean it is protected for future generations, and would welcome any further involvement in its progression in the future.”

Greater Bunbury’s first Regional Park stretches from the Bunbury airport in the east to the iconic Maidens Reserve in the west.

The park is home to more than 600 species of flora and 180 species of fauna, many of which are listed as endangered.

Deputy Mayor Brendan Kelly said the park was a significant environmental and community asset for Greater Bunbury.

“Having the park on the city’s doorstep is key to our amenity,” Mr Kelly said.

“This piece of nature is part of our city’s identity and a legacy for our children.”