Astley River Park needs new friends, can you help out?

Astley River Park needs new friends, can you help out?

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Astley River Park
Toni Leahy-Fripp said the Friends of Astley River Park are desperate for new members.

Friends of Astley River Park are desperate for new members, with membership plunging to record lows in the last few years.

Toni Leahy-Fripp fell into the position of coordinator of the group which cares for a 1.2km stretch of the Canning River, and said age and failing health had seen the memberships plunge.

“We voluntarily care for the park on a regular basis, but our numbers have dwindled over the last couple of years,” she said.

“Now there’s only three to four people doing these duties on a regular basis.”

While local residents focus on Mary Carroll Wetlands, Ms Leahy-Fripp said Astley River Park was often overlooked.

“Eunice Robinson has done a great job with Friends of Mary Carroll Wetlands, and I think a lot of local people don’t know about this area, which is a shame, and it needs a lot of work.

“Throughout the year the park can greatly benefit from weed control, rubbish removal, monitoring of any issues like fallen trees or other damage so we need more help.

“Armadale Gosnells Landcare Group provides any equipment we need and loads of support, but the Landcare officers and support staff are very busy managing AGLG activities and grant applications to ensure ongoing work in the area so a lot of the time they’re unable to help with ongoing park care.”

Any volunteers who can help are encouraged to head to the Friends of Astley River Park Facebook page at www.facebook.com/friendsofastleyriverpark