City of Fremantle Council has begun essential construction works to replace the failing and unsafe John Street River Wall at John Reserve along the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) in North Fremantle.
The works include upgrading the river wall by demolishing and removing the existing revetment, and installing a new revetment, vertical block wall and scour protection.
There are also two large Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum) located behind the existing wall. The rare trees are more than 40 years old and in good condition and will be retained and protected by arborists during the construction works, the Council says.
The Council has been consulting and collaborating with Whadjuk Elders on the project as the John Street River Wall is a registered site of significance under the Aboriginal Heritage Act.
A smoking ceremony performed by Traditional Custodians was held onsite before excavation works kicked off.