Joondanna celebrates reserve upgrades as family planting project blooms across generations
Joondanna families have celebrated the official completion of extensive upgrades to Joondanna Reserve at a community planting event with its roots in the 1980s.
The $1.25 million upgrades were delivered by the City of Stirling in partnership with the Australian Government and the community over the last 18 months.
But the seeds of the project were planted in 1989, when local families partnered with the City to plant trees and install a commemorative plaque at the reserve.
Their aim was to encourage grassroots involvement in local parks and a greater sense of shared belonging in their community.
On Wednesday, some of those families joined City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin, Ward Councillors and Federal Member for Perth, Patrick Gorman MP, at a community planting celebration.
“From the original project decades ago to the community-led improvements we see here today, this is a local success story that has spanned generations,” Mayor Irwin said.
“I want to express my gratitude to Patrick Gorman, the Federal Government and our Councillors for their support in delivering these upgrades.
“But most of all, I want to thank and congratulate the Joondanna community, who have shown over many years how much they care about their neighbourhood.”
The Australian Government contributed $500,000 to the project, with $750,000 coming from the City.
“We promised and delivered $500,000 towards upgrades to Joondanna Reserve,” Mr Gorman said.
“I know parks like Joondanna Reserve make a huge difference for families who live in the Perth community, who love their time at the park as much as my family.
“As Perth grows, we appreciate the investment in our green spaces, where our children can play and enjoy the outdoors safely.”
Headlining the upgrades is a new playground co-designed with students from Tuart Hill Primary School, featuring a flying fox, giant swing, spinner, shade sails and more. A small permanent soccer goal has also been installed nearby.
The upgrades also include new picnic facilities, park furniture, footpath connections, lighting, bike racks, toilets, formalised parking and signage.
Artist Tessa Dorotich has painted a mural at the park inspired by native flora and her childhood, capturing a sense of childlike play and wonder.
The City undertook community engagement to help shape the project, with trees and greening emerging as a key focus.
Landscaping at the reserve has introduced a variety of new trees and plants, including areas filled with native shrubs and groundcovers.
