THE City of Mandurah has celebrated its purchase of a third parcel of bushland under the Bushland Protection Strategy.
The 31.26-hectare site at 437 Old Coast Road has significant ecological values including being a Conservation Category Wetland, a habitat listed for species including black cockatoos and western ringtail possum, and a diversity of habitats and vegetation types.
The bushland was opened by Mayor Marina Vergone and Noongar elder Harry Nannup.
“This site will now be preserved forever for our future generation,” Mayor Vergone said.
While the City wants Mandurah to be able to grow, they do not want to sacrifice the natural land because of it.
Under the Bushland Protection Strategy, the City aims to protect 150ha of privately owned bushland that would otherwise be developed.
“The City became conscious about Mandurah’s disappearing bushland and the councillors of the time came up with the bold plan to purchase 150ha of privately owned bushland that would otherwise be developed,” Mayor Vergone said.
The City’s first purchase was a 24ha bushland parcel adjacent to the 25ha Marlee Reserve in Parklands in 2006.
This was followed by a second purchase in 2009 in Dawesville.
“The way the City of Mandurah is going I’m loving it more and more,” Mr Nannup said.
“This land is going to keep the animals and the environment safe.
“This is my country and I want you to be able to be a part of it.”
