Visitors to picturesque Mary Carroll Park, in Gosnells, can now use two new pedestrian bridges and an accessible ‘Changing Places’ toilet block, as the first phase of a $3 million upgrade to the area.
Subsequent phases of the project will include a path network, additional picnic areas with shade shelters and an Aboriginal-themed ‘Welcome to Country’ area and a large all-abilities playground.
In 2021, the City secured $1 million in Lotterywest funding for the project.
Mayor Lynes said the City asked residents about the sorts of facilities they would like developed at Mary Carroll Park and new pedestrian bridges and an accessible toilet were high on the list of priorities.
“The new bridges offer a walking loop around the wetlands and views of the park that were not accessible until now,” Mayor Lynes said.
“This upgrade will encourage even more people to visit these wetland areas and enjoy the unique natural beauty of Mary Carroll Park.”
Thornlie MLA Chris Tallentire welcomed the completion of the bridge and Changing Places facility.
“Helping people of all abilities see and enjoy our beautiful natural environment is so important for community wellbeing and for helping us to better love and understand our natural heritage,” he said.
The new toilet block encompasses a special Changing Places facility, with larger-than-standard accessible toilets, an automatic door, ceiling track hoist system and height-adjustable, adult-sized change table, to meet the needs of people of all ages with disability and their carers.
“We hope that the new facility will help give individuals with high care needs more support to enjoy the environment at Mary Carroll Park,” Mayor Lynes said
The ablution block also encompasses two public toilets and much-needed storage for the Friends of Mary Carroll Wetlands who help to rehabilitate, preserve and maintain the natural environment of the Park.
Reserved in 1971, the heritage-listed bird sanctuary and park in the heart of Gosnells was named after Mary Carroll, a naturalist and former teacher at the adjoining Gosnells Primary School.
The park is a valuable breeding wetland, supporting large numbers of water birds, songbirds, turtles, reptiles and wetland flora.
For more information visit the City’s website at gosnells.wa.gov.au.
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