The City of Bayswater will take over management of the eastern portion of Baigup Wetlands, supporting the long-term restoration of the regionally significant site and renewal of key infrastructure.
In November 2025, Council supported progressing the transfer of the management order for the eastern portion of Baigup Wetlands from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH) to the City of Bayswater, subject to the State Government committing $1 million towards infrastructure renewal and environmental restoration and maintenance works.
Acting Mayor Elli Petersen-Pik said the transfer marked an important milestone for the future of Baigup Wetlands.
“This will strengthen the care and protection of one of the most significant environmental sites in the City and an area that is enjoyed and appreciated by so many in our community, from walkers and cyclists, to nature lovers,” he said.
“Council listened to calls from community members of the Baigup Wetlands Interest Group, who advocated for this natural area to be managed wholly by the City of Bayswater. This was due to clear evidence and experience that the existing split in management hindered the best possible care for this important ecological area, with reports the eastern portion was managed on an as-needed basis by the DPLH.
“With the City now assuming responsibility for the entire site, both our community and the environment will benefit from an increased level of service delivered by the City’s Natural Area Management team.”
Acting Mayor Petersen-Pik said Council had taken a responsible approach by supporting the transfer only if State Government funding was secured to support the work.
“I’m pleased that following advocacy by our City and members of the Baigup Wetlands Interest Group, we were able to achieve the outcome of securing those funds, which will also see the existing deteriorated boardwalk near the Garratt Road bridge replaced.
“The City's long-standing experience in managing the western portion, with the close assistance of community volunteers, has demonstrated our commitment to restoring environmentally significant natural areas. Bringing this reserve under a single land manager allows the City to take a more coordinated approach to conservation and long-term planning, and will deliver enhanced ecological outcomes and community benefits.”
The City will now prepare a Management Plan for the entire site and explore the possibility of applying to recognise Baigup Wetlands as a Class A Nature Reserve, similar to Lightning Swamp Bushland in Noranda.
Baigup Wetlands is a Bush Forever site that provides vital habitat for native wildlife and has an important role within the Swan River ecosystem, including containing significant estuarine saltmarsh vegetation.
Pictured: City of Bayswater Acting Mayor Elli Petersen-Pik (centre) with members of the Baigup Wetlands Interest Group and City of Bayswater Environment staff Alex and Tom.