Wildlife habitat expanded as Hurlingham planting gets underway

Wildlife on the South Perth foreshore will soon benefit from an expanded living stream and more abundant habitat, with the Stage 2 planting of the Hurlingham Living Stream Project now underway in Sir James Mitchell Park.  

Planting began last month using stock grown in the City’s nursery, following the completion of civil works in April, including turf removal, drainage reconstruction, pathway installation and soil preparation.  

Around 25,000 native shrubs, rushes and sedges will be in planted during this stage, in addition to the 20,000 already planted in Stage 1, to boost biodiversity and strengthen habitat for local wildlife.  

The Hurlingham Living Stream project is a $925,708 environmental restoration initiative, supported by $602,350 from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. Stage 2 continues the transformation of the existing Hurlingham open drain into a living stream designed to naturally filter stormwater and improve water quality entering the Swan Canning Estuary. This stage will also link the completed Stage 1 stream with Lake Hurlingham. 

Environmental safeguards have remained a priority throughout the works. Turtles living in the area were safely moved to Lake Hurlingham before construction began, with ongoing wildlife monitoring continuing during the project. Works are expected to be completed ahead of the 2026 nesting season.  

Once complete, the project is expected to support species including snake-necked turtles, black swans, sacred kingfishers, motorbike frogs and rakali (Australian water rats), while enhancing the ecological health and amenity of the foreshore.  

The project follows the completion of Stage 1 in August 2025, where early vegetation growth is already contributing to improved water flow and water quality in the area, and attracting wildlife back to the area. 

Interpretive signage for the Hurlingham Living Stream project is also planned to help visitors learn more about the restoration project and the health of the Swan River. 

The City encourages park users to visit and see the new living stream for themselves, and remain mindful of temporary fencing and signage while works continue.