Local tree species to be planted as part of Waterbird Refuge project

Two groves of introduced, self-seeded Casuarina cunninghamiana are being removed as part of the Waterbird Refuge project on South Perth Foreshore, east of Coode Street.

The trees will be replaced with 20 local tree species.

The Casuarina trees are being removed to prevent further weed infestations along the river and to enable replacement of damaged underground pipes which provide fresh water from the lakes to the river.

The primary aim of the Waterbird Refuge project is to protect the foreshore reserve, improve habitat for native waterbirds and protect the riverbank from erosion, while providing a retreat for bird watching, breeding, ecology, and learning.

The project will replace damaged river walls with a habitat island, two vegetated headlands, a beach and a planted rock revetment.

The City has successfully secured $700,000 in funding from the Parks and Wildlife Service at the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to support the $1.5 million project.

Project construction is anticipated to commence early 2021 and take six months to complete.