Big Swamp Wetlands

Statement of Significance

Big Swam Wetlands has cultural heritage significance because:
the project to rehabilitate and establish a large conservation area was commenced in the early 1960s and continues to this day;
the project engenders a sense of community ownership and volunteer involvement;
the successful creation of diverse and stable ecosystems to support natural habitats for flora and fauna, and the provision of passive recreational facilities is an important environmental development for the City;
the place has the potential for study opportunities, and is intended to represent a healthy South West wetland successfully maintained within an urban setting.

Physical Description

Big Swamp consists of recreational areas and a series of islands forming ecosystems which incorporate a number of natural habitats to support large populations of both flora and fauna.

History

In 1962, a twenty year project plan was proposed create a landfill (rubbish dump) and to reclaim the Big Swamp wetlands for community use. The dumping of refuse closed in the 1970s and the ‘rubbish hill’ has since been rehabilitated to form a vantage point for the observation of wildlife.

The complex was formed by artificially creating wetlands through the clearing of native vegetation and directing the run-off into a natural depression. Big Swamp was also the natural drainage outlet for Five Mile Brook, which is now diverted to flow along an open drainage channel and discharges directly into the Indian Ocean via floodgates. Provision is made for water to be diverted to Big Swamp when needed.

A market garden had been established on the northern perimeter of Big Swamp by Chinese who sold their produce in local shops. Earlier land uses also included cattle grazing. In the late 1880s, a vineyard and orchard were established by E M Clarke and Dr O’Meehan on the edge of the swamp land. Their property was later owned and operated by the Gibson family, who lived at 68-70 Clarke Street. Their wine was stored in a substantial cellar built in the nearby limestone cave system.

In 1981, a Bird Park was built in the south west corner of the Swamp. It was a joint venture between the City of Bunbury and the avicultural society.

Over the years, strategic plantings and judicious management of the wetland environment has attracted a variety of wildlife and birds to the area.

Big Swamp consists of recreational areas and a series of islands forming ecosystems which incorporate a number of natural habitats to support large populations of both flora and fauna.

Integrity/Authenticity

Though significant modifications have occurred over time the area retains certain residual intrinsic value. The retention of remnant vegetation such as the paperbark/acacia woodlands is recommended and further plantings of native species is planned.

Condition

Council facilitate ongoing maintenance of the park and environs. Volunteers are invited to participate in activities which assist in the maintainence of islands and ecosystems.

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.