Harry Sandon Park Perimeter Fence

Harry Sandon Park is a valuable bushland remnant that contains a rich diversity of plants and animals.  It is listed as site number 226 under Bush Forever, which provides protection at the State level and identifies regionally significant bushland to be retained and protected forever.  We are extremely fortunate to have an intact piece of bushland so close to the river and within easy reach of the community.

Unfortunately, the reserve has been experiencing a decline in condition in recent years.  Illegal dumping of rubbish, unauthorised access paths, vandalism and weed encroachment are all having a negative impact on the bushland.

To protect the reserve against future damage, a perimeter fence is planned for
Harry Sandon Park.  The Department of Environment and Conservation and
Perth Biodiversity Project recommend fencing to protect urban bushlands (PBP Local Government Guidelines for Bushland Management, 2009).

The following points have been provided for further information:

1.      As mentioned, the primary reason for the fence is environmental protection.  Installing fencing is a proven way to reduce illegal dumping of rubbish, minimise unauthorised access and assist with track rationalisation.  It also helps to reduce management costs.

2.      Fencing of reserves has been used successfully in other City of Melville Reserves and by other Local Governments.  A recent example is Wireless Hill Park, where fencing was installed in 2009.

3.      The fence design will be post and ring lock to a height of 1.1 metres.  The design has been chosen as the least visually intrusive, the least expensive and is easy and inexpensive to maintain and repair should there be any damage from fire or vandalism.  Openings will be provided where the hard stand pathways currently exist to allow pedestrians to move through the park freely.

4.      FESA has been previously consulted on the design of fencing projects and appropriate entrances for fire fighting purposes.  FESA have indicated that large appliances do not enter reserves to fight fires.  Only small fast attack vehicles enter reserves and can do so through the existing pedestrian entrances that will remain open.  FESA have also indicated that when a fire threatens life and property, helitac helicopters are used for aerial firefighting.

5.      The Friends of Harry Sandon support the City of Melville in initiatives that will protect Harry Sandon Reserve.  Please visit their website at www.harrysandon.org if you would like more information about the group.

The map below shows the proposed location of the fence and the style of fence can be seen in the photos of the Wireless Hill Reserve fence.   

A community meeting will be held on site from 10am to 11am on Friday,
19 November 2010, to provide further information and to address any questions.  If you are unable to attend the meeting or would like further information prior to this date, please contact Deanne Wynn, Environmental Officer on 9364 0283 or email deanne.wynn@melville.wa.gov.au .