Major investment to restore Canning’s waterways and wildlife habitat

The City of Canning is delivering three significant restoration projects to improve the health of local waterways, protect native wildlife and create greener spaces for the community thanks to $1.525 million from the Australian Government’s Urban Rivers and Catchments Program.

The investment is funding three major restoration projects: Yagan Reserve – Weed Control and Revegetation ($745,000), Shelley Rossmoyne Foreshore – Weed Control and Revegetation ($220,000) and Queens Park Basin – Drainage Retrofit ($560,000). Water Corporation is contributing an additional $100,000 via its Assets (Drainage) for Liveability Program to improve environmental and community benefits at the Queens Park project site.

These projects tackle long-standing environmental pressures such as slope instability, loss of native habitat and poor water quality. Works are focusing on removing invasive weeds, replanting native vegetation and improving water flow to help the river system recover and thrive.

Mayor Patrick Hall said the projects would deliver lasting benefits for the environment and the community.

“Healthy waterways are the lifeblood of our city. They provide habitat for native birds, fish and plants, help filter stormwater and create beautiful places for people to connect with nature,” Mayor Hall said.

“This work will stabilise eroded banks, improve biodiversity and build resilience to flooding while also making these spaces more accessible and enjoyable for the community.”

Works are scheduled to commence in summer 2026. Residents and visitors may notice temporary disruptions at the project sites during construction and revegetation activities. The City will provide advance notice of any closures or restricted access to ensure community safety and minimise inconvenience.

This project is funded by the Australian Government’s Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, with the support of the City of Canning, Water Corporation, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Whadjuk Traditional Owners and local environmental groups. This strong partnership will help ensure the projects achieve lasting benefits for the river, wildlife and community.

The three projects are part of the $10 million Cleaning up the Canning program to improve the ecological health and condition of the Canning, Southern and Wungong Rivers and will be completed by March 2028.