Plaque honours local legend

Plaque honours local legend

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John Bowler’s grandson Kyle Scott Thompson and City of Gosnells Mayor Terresa Lynes (centre) celebrate the unveiling of a memorial plaque for Mr Bowler at Ellis Brook Valley, joined by Councillors, city staff, former and current Friends of Ellis Brook Valley members, and representatives from the Gosnells Men’s Shed and Armadale-Gosnells Landcare Group.

A new memorial plaque at Ellis Brook Valley has been unveiled to honour the legacy of the late John Bowler, a driving force and pivotal figure behind the Friends of Ellis Brook Valley group.

Mr Bowler, a skilled draughtsman, played a significant role in the design and construction of various key features at the reserve, including the steps leading to Eagle View, the gazebo and carpark at Waterfall Gully, and the boardwalk at Honey Eater Hollow.

He served as president of the Friends of Ellis Brook Valley for 14 years and was an active member for a total of 30 years. He sadly passed away in February this year.

Last week, Mayor Terresa Lynes and Councillors, along with Mr Bowler’s family and friends, gathered at Ellis Brook Valley to unveil a plaque near the stairs he built.

“Thanks to Mr Bowler’s efforts, visitors can continue to enjoy the great amenities at the park for many years to come, so this plaque is an admirable way for the City to honour his legacy.”

“The City is truly grateful for the work Mr Bowler did at Ellis Brook Valley over many years,” Mayor Lynes said.

His late wife, Heather Bowler, was also honoured with a plaque at the reserve in 2009 for her dedication to the conservation of Ellis Brook Valley.

Mayor Terresa Lynes believes the Bowler’s legacy will live on through the lasting impact of their contributions to the Valley

“John and his late wife Heather also created a plant species list, now used by Curtin University students for research,” she said.

“His contributions have shaped Ellis Brook Valley for generations to come, and the plaque pays tribute to his remarkable efforts.