More than 65 volunteers from bushcare groups across Perth gathered at the Mud Hut in Kenwick last Sunday to celebrate the people helping protect local bushland and wetlands.
The event, organised by the Urban Bushland Council during National Volunteer Week, brought together representatives from about 30 community groups working in areas stretching from the hills to the coast.
Volunteers were welcomed to Country by Aunty Cathy from the Langford Aboriginal Association. Mayor Terresa Lynes and Mayor Patrick Hall also attended the event in support of local environmental volunteers.
Urban Bushland Council chair Christine Richardson said it was encouraging to see so many people involved in caring for local bushland.
“It is heartening to see so many people and represented groups here today. Caring for bush is part of so many people’s activities,” she said.
The gathering also recognised the long-standing work of Regina and Trevor Drummond, along with volunteers contributing to conversation efforts across Gosnells, Kalamunda and surrounding areas.
Guests heard presentations from Dr Daniel Jan Martin about the hydrology links between Yule Brook and the Kenwick’s Wetlands, while Bronwen Keighery OAM spoke about the biodiversity of the Greater Brixton Street Wetlands.
According to organisers, the wetlands area is home to many plant species not found elsewhere and contains about 70 percent of the floral species found across metropolitan Perth.
The event was co-hosted by the Urban Bushland Council, Friends of Brixton Street Wetlands, Friends of the Shelley Rossmoyne Foreshore, Nature Reserves Preservation Group and the Armadale branch of the Wildflower Society.
Organisers said the celebration was also a chance for volunteers to connect, share stories and encourage more people to get involved in caring for local natural areas.
