Planting thousands of trees to rolling out clever drainage systems has paid dividends for one local council.
For the second year running, the City of Gosnells has earned Gold Waterwise accreditation from the Water Corporation, recognising its strong commitment to sustainable water use.
Director of Infrastructure Martyn Glover has also been named a Waterwise Champion, taking out the inaugural award for his leadership in water-saving initiatives.
Mayor Terresa Lyns said Mr Glover played a major role in the City’s success.
“Martyn has been a driving force behind the City’s efforts toward holistic and integrated water cycle management, green space planning and the Smart Drainage program, making him a worthy recipient of this award,” she said.
Mayor Lynes said retaining gold status was a big win, especially after two years of record dry weather in Perth.
“Our climate is getting drier each year, which makes this Gold Waterwise accreditation even more important,” she said.
“By thinking carefully about where the City uses water and how we can make that more efficient and effective, the City continues to improve our environment while saving ratepayer dollars.”
Projects behind the City’s success include planting more than 1,100 trees and 3,000 understorey plants in Canning Vale with a $115,000 Urban Greening Grant and running community programs like the Plants for Locals giveaway and a waterwise demo garden at Amherst Village. In addition, upgrading Mary Carroll Park to boost community connection to water and delivering irrigation upgrades and the award-winning Smart Drainage project aided the City’s success.
The Waterwise awards celebrate councils and leaders helping to build a more water-smart future across Western Australia.
