Goolugatup Heathcote Lowerlands Revitalisation Project Enters Stage Two
The deteriorated Goolugatup Heathcote Lowerlands site is blossoming into a vibrant cultural and ecological space for the local community, as stage two of its comprehensive redevelopment officially kicked off. This significant revitalisation project focuses on a neglected section of the Derbarl Yerrigan foreshore and the underutilised area between Goolugatup Heathcote on the hill and the South of Perth Yacht Club adjacent to the river.
Project Details and Community Impact
The ambitious project includes the installation of native garden beds, an extensive concrete path network, an apothecary healing garden, and general ecological restoration across the entire area. Additionally, accessible shelters, toilets, and picnic amenities will be constructed, alongside a new sealed carpark designed to accommodate the expected increase in visitors.
City of Melville Mayor Katy Mair emphasised that the revitalisation will significantly boost community connection while honouring the profound cultural significance of this First Nations site. "Facilitating a sense of community, wellbeing, social connection, and participation while providing lifelong learning opportunities is a priority for the city," she stated.
Funding and Cultural Collaboration
The project is budgeted at $8.8 million, with Lotterywest providing substantial support through a $2.35 million grant to the City of Melville. Western Australian landscape designers UDLA have been collaborating closely with Whadjuk elders and a Whadjuk reference group to co-design the landscape, ensuring cultural awareness is deeply embedded into the new park.
Mayor Mair highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, noting, "The Goolugatup Heathcote Lowerlands renewal project has been co-designed with Traditional Owners, and will be a place of healing that connects our community through a place-based reconciliation approach."
Key Features and Future Plans
Stage two, which began on March 23, is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The project will include:
- Aboriginal and environmental signage
- Fish traps and landscape connections to the river
- Enhanced recreational and community spaces
This stage is directly linked to Melville's Stretch Reconciliation Plan for 2025-28, aiming to increase knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures within the community.
Stage one, completed in November 2025, established a cultural yarning circle with a fire pit and new pathway connections along the foreshore. Following stage two, stage three will see the installation of a staircase and lookout points, further enhancing the site's accessibility and visitor experience.
Mayor Mair expressed satisfaction with the project's progress, stating, "It's pleasing to see this project continue following more than a decade of consultation and planning with Traditional Owners, key stakeholders and the wider community."
