The Melros Urban Garden Project, spearheaded by the Dawesville Town Team seeking collaboration from the City of Mandurah, embodied a bold vision for Lot 24 Anaconda Loop in Melros Beach. Encompassing over 700 square meters, the aim was to transform this barren area into a thriving, sustainable space that promotes community connection, education, and relaxation.

The team envisioned the garden uniting neighbours and Council efforts, featuring shared planting initiatives, urban food production, and spaces designed for all to enjoy. Proposed features ranged from shaded seating areas to solar-lit pathways, offering opportunities for recreation and education while fostering a greater connection to nature.

Recent Council Meeting Brings Setbacks and Opportunities

This week, members of the Dawesville Town Team met with Council department heads on-site to present their concept and discuss possibilities for Lot 24. While most of the aspects of the project were put on hold or compromised on, the meeting highlighted opportunities to collaborate in specific sections of the area.

Unfortunately, the area has been officially designated as a drainage reserve by the Council, restricting development & maintenance throughout much of the space. However, the narrow area located between the existing pathway and a retaining limestone wall has been identified as viable for restricted development. Though there are challenges, the Town Team remains optimistic.

What the Melros Urban Garden Could Offer

The potential benefits of the Melros Urban Garden are undeniable. The team’s original plans promised a host of features aimed at enriching the community experience and environmental health:

• Pollinator-Friendly Plants: Native flowers to attract bees and butterflies, enriching biodiversity in the area.
• Educational Displays: Installations focusing on sustainability topics, equipping visitors with knowledge to adopt eco-friendly practices.
• Interactive Pathways: Pavement games and solar-lighted paths for safer navigation, even after dark.
• Shaded Seating Areas: Relaxation spots aimed to reduce stress and encourage socialization among residents.
• Urban Produce Gardens: Space for producing sustainable food, inspiring both healthy lifestyles and community involvement.

These features would have transformed the site into a vibrant hub for all ages, laying the foundation for stronger community bonds.

Challenges Introduced by Climate and Soil Conditions

One of the project's most significant hurdles has been the environmental state of the land. The hydrophobic soil in the area resists water absorption, leading to issues with erosion during heavy rains and hazards in drier months. To make matters worse, the harsh weather patterns of recent years—including extended dry spells and wind events—have taken a toll on previously planted vegetation.

Despite these conditions, there are solutions on the horizon. For example, applying mulch, planting drought-tolerant species, and stabilizing the slopes could help improve soil health and erosion control. While the Council approved some corrective measures in these areas, limitations to the project’s broader scope remain a challenge.

Council’s Decisions and Path Forward

The Council meeting brought both setbacks and progress for the Urban Garden Project. Here are the key outcomes:

• Hedge Removal: The request to remove the overgrown hedge along the pathway was declined for now, pending further observation of its growth potential.
• Pathway Drainage Fixes: Drainage problems along the main pathway will be addressed, including sand removal to improve safety and accessibility.
• Native Food Garden Proposal: Although a full-scale produce garden was not approved, the introduction of native food plants was accepted conditionally, pending the allocation of a water reticulation system.
• Pavement Games and Beautification: Painting games on the pathway and adding interactive décor require applications to infrastructure programs, supported by letters from local residents.
• Seating Options: The idea of bench seating along the limestone wall was left undecided and will require further input from the community.

These outcomes show that, while limited, there are actionable steps that can enhance the functionality and appeal of the site.

Community Engagement Is Key

A common theme throughout the Council discussions was the importance of local resident involvement in shaping the future of Lot 24. The success of many proposals hinges on written letters of support from neighbours, which could unlock necessary funding and approval for installations such as seating and pathway games.

Once planting begins, the Urban Garden will also rely on members of the community to contribute their time and care to help maintain the space. This collaboration would deepen the garden’s role as a symbol of collective pride for Melros Beach residents.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Although the grand vision for the Melros Urban Garden project faces big limitations, there are still exciting developments to look forward to. Scheduled drainage repairs and soil stabilization activities set for June 2025 will mark critical progress toward revitalizing the space.

Additionally, the Dawesville Town Team is hopeful that ongoing investments into the broader Melros area will further complement the efforts at Lot 24. The gradual implementation of greenery, pathways, and community-focused features will pave the way for long-term success.

Hope for a Greener Future

While the meeting with Council hit many dead ends, it also underscored the resilience and creativity of the Dawesville Town Team. Adapting to challenges with solutions focused on sustainability and inclusivity, the team remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing Lot 24 for the community.

The Melros Urban Garden Project may not get to reflect its original vision, even small steps can hold great promise. With ongoing teamwork between residents and Council, Lot 24 could still grow into a small space that embodies the heart and spirit of Melros Beach.