The City of Fremantle has received $1.7 million from the Federal Government to improve local bushland and wildlife habitat, while boosting community accessibility for Fremantle's largest natural park.
The commitment, made during the 2025 election campaign, will upgrade Samson Park's drainage systems, address seasonal flooding, and improve its ecological health.
Led by the City of Fremantle, the funding will also be used to create a network of paths, boardwalks, and a seasonal wetland, realign stormwater drainage infrastructure, plant native vegetation, and install educational signage.
Fremantle Ben Lawver welcomed the grant funding.
"The drainage works project will enable a range of improvements the City of Fremantle has planned for Samson Park over the next few years.
"These plans, developed in consultation with the community, Elders, and technical experts, will improve bush health, enhance public access, and renew ageing infrastructure.
The investment is part of the Federal Government's Local Environmental Projects Program, which is protecting and improving our environment and heritage.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt said the project will make Samson Park more inviting for people and wildlife alike.
"This project will make improvements to Samson Park which will encourage new plants and animals to settle in, while also making it visually appealing and more practical for the community," Minister Watt said.
Member for Fremantle, Josh Wilson said the funding will support the community to conserve, protect, and sustainably manage precious natural environment.
"I am rapt to support the City of Fremantle, the Samson Precinct, and the tireless efforts of the Friends of Samson Park in their work to conserve and protect this urban bushland treasure at the heart of the Samson community."
"These upgrades will embed Samson Park as a beloved local ecosystem for families for many years to come."
Mayor Lawver said it would help protect the local environment.
"Samson Park is the last remaining significant bushland area within the City of Fremantle. It's filled with beautiful jarrah, marri and tuart trees, and is home to more than 50 bird species, reptiles and bats."
"I look forward to celebrating the receipt of this grant with the Friends of Samson Park and the rest of the community when we gather for the Samson Tree & Wildlife Festival this Saturday."
