Eric Singleton Wetlands – An Oasis on the Banks of the Swan River.
Swan River Parklands of Riverside Gardens
One of the key features of Bayswater is its location along the Swan River. Nestled within the Swan River parklands of Riverside Gardens, is the Eric Singleton Wetlands (formerly the Eric Singleton Bird Sanctuary)
Health of the Swan River
The Bayswater Brook in Western Australia is one of the top contributors of the nitrogen and phosphorous into the Swan River. Adjacent to the brook is the man-made wetland, Eric Singleton Wetlands which was in poor ecological condition and environmental decline. The sanctuary covers approximately four hectares and was a seasonally wet depression. It was drained in the 1950’s and became a permanent wetland when the surrounding area was used for landfill in between 1972 and 1981.
Named After
The late Eric Singleton, a Bayswater resident and bird enthusiast, had the area officially recognized as a wetland in 1977.
Rehabilitation Project
One of the largest projects of its kind, the rehabilitation of the Eric Singleton Wetlands was completed by the City of Bayswater in partnership with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
Design and an extensive community consultation and engagement process began in 2012, with detailed designs created throughout 2013 by GHD Pty Ltd in consultation with the City, Parks and Wildlife, Water Corporation, and Department of Environmental Regulation. The project began construction works in late December 2014 and was completed in October 2015.
Bird Wildlife
The Sanctuary is home to many different birds including ducks, pelicans, white faced herons, swallows, honeyeaters, reed dwellers and hawks. At dusk, hear the chorus of laughter of kookaburras and the croaking frogs.
Outdoor Activities – Picnics, Dog Walking etc
The Eric Singleton Wetlands and surrounding Riverside Gardens is a hive of activity on weekends. The area is perfect for picnics, dog-walking, rowing, and numerous other leisure activities. Riverside Gardens is dog-friendly, however pets are not allowed within the Eric Singleton Wetlands.
Find out more about the Eric Singleton Wetlands by getting in touch with the Friends of Eric Singleton Wetlands, or by following them on facebook.
References:
https://www.bayswater.wa.gov.au/environment/our-natural-areas/eric-singleton-bird-sanctuary
(Lay2 Real Estate – Bayswater WA. 1 Sep 2019).