VOLUNTEERS behind the Melville Bird Sanctuary say steady progress on rehabilitation works at Point Waylen has given them renewed confidence.
According to Friends of Melville Bird Sanctuary co-founders Jenny Christenson and Tom Lubin, the City of Melville and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions have made “great progress” on rehabilitation and revegetation at Point Waylen, which forms a critical part of the sanctuary.
Ms Christenson and Mr Lubin say the group remains focused on addressing ongoing human disturbance, particularly impacts on migratory shorebirds that rely on uninterrupted access to safe resting and feeding habitats.
Migratory
“Migratory bird species are of particular conservation concern,” they said.
The pair say they are working with others to find a constructive and collaborative way forward.
The pair said the Alfred Cove osprey season was bittersweet.
One chick from the 2024 season survived and continues to be seen with its mother, but there were no successful offspring during the 2025 breeding season, despite breeding behaviour being observed.
Based on advice from an experienced osprey observer, the co-founders say the 2025 season proved challenging across the Perth region.
From a state fund of $145,000 for an aesthetic bird-viewing seat at Point Waylen and equipment for school visits, the group has purchased 30 pairs of kids’ binoculars and invited local primary schools to take part in bird awareness activities.
Improvements from an $850,000 federal pledge so far include new sanctuary signage, preparation of land for planting next year, installation of a 1.35m-high “no dogs” fence along the western boundary of the peninsula and the start of foreshore rehabilitation works.
Looking ahead, Mr Lubin and Ms Christenson say refurbished information shelters at Troy Park and Blackwall Reach Reserve will help raise further awareness, while a new video produced by the City of Melville and Parks and Wildlife showcases the sanctuary’s values.
The Friends are holding their next birdwatching walk on Saturday March 14 from 7.30am from the viewing platform on Burke Drive.