The City of Gosnells council has responded to local people power by committing to fund and build a new public barbecue facility at Combiac Road Reserve in Martin, following a successful petition from residents of the Riverhaven Estate.
Supported by 116 signatures, the petition argued that the Riverhaven Estate, cut off from existing barbecue facilities by a distance of 1.2km and separated by Tonkin Highway, deserved a barbecue unit at Combiac Road Reserve to improve community amenities and connectivity.
Jade Richardson, the petition organiser, said the community’s support inspired her to pursue the project, which had long been desired in the area.
“A local resident had floated the idea with the community back in 2017 and again in 2023. I followed up on this in April 2024 as no progress of this idea had developed; that’s what motivated me to get the ball rolling and move to bring this idea to fruition.”
“Overall, there has been support from the neighbours, and I am sure it will get lots of use from those that didn’t get an opportunity to sign.”
Ms Richardson believes the barbecue will foster a tighter community in the area, creating a welcoming space for residents to connect.
“It will serve as a gathering spot for the diverse community, promote social interaction and integration among residents of different nationalities,” Ms Richardson said.
“This can help break down social barriers, reduce isolation, and improve residents’ wellbeing.”
Typically, the City of Gosnells’s Guide to Park Hierarchy and Infrastructure does not endorse the installation of barbecues in local parks. However, the Council acknowledged the exceptional circumstances in this case and passed the proposal with a majority vote.
Councillor Glenn Dewhurst thanked council staff for finding the appropriate funding.
“They (The Riverhaven Estate community) weren’t quite sure if they were going to get it or not; they thought they would give it a good crack, and they certainly did,” Mr Dewhurt said.
“Our wonderful staff have found the resources to actually do it and found it’s actually a simple build.”
The new barbecue unit, anticipated to be funded in the 2025/26 budget, will cost around $20,000 for purchase and installation, with annual maintenance and cleaning expenses estimated at $2,500.
For those inspired to drive change in their local community through petitions, Ms Richardson said the best way to succeed is by clearly outlining the potential advantages of the proposal.
“Residents who want to make similar improvements in their local areas may find it helpful to research the benefits of their proposed project and present a solid business case to their local Council. Remember, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.”
