Kings Park Lotterywest Federation Walkway

Post

Subscribe

On the south side of Kings Park in the area known as the Mount Eliza escarpment, there is the Lotterywest Federation Walkway set within the WA Botanic Gardens. The walkway, opened in 2003, offers the best views you'll find of Perth City and the Swan River.



As you walk down from the start of the pathway next to the Lord Forrest roundabout, you'll see the Giant Boab or "Gija Jumulu" at the Two Rivers Lookout. The boab tree was gifted by the Gija indigenous people from Warmun in the Kimberley region, when it had to be moved due to roadworks.



Along the pathway there are many comprehensive information boards along with planted areas which explain and illustrate WA's diverse flora and landscape.

There is also some fascinating information on the Nyoongar people's six seasons and what they did in each season to help their families grow and thrive. They knew which trees and animals to use for medicine and food and when to burn off bush areas to force native animals out for easier hunting.

There are more lookouts along the way including the Mt Eliza lookout which has an expansive view over Perth City, the Narrows Bridge and across the Swan River down to Canning River.



Once you reach the actual walkway, it takes you through a canopy of eucalyptus trees. You may find yourself looking eye to eye with some feathered friends as I discovered when I saw a kookaburra directly in front of me in a tree patiently studying the bush floor for food.



The main part of the walkway rises up into an elevated glass bridge and down again, so more photo opportunities for the Perth Esplanade and the Swan Brewery building.



After the walkway exit, there is a sign indicating which area was the traditional Nyoongar men's place and which was the women's place. Heading right takes you to the Beedawong meeting place which looks like a mini amphitheatre.



Further on is the Water Garden Pavilion surrounded by ponds and small waterfalls teaming with plant and small wildlife. This area was the Nyoongar women's place so there was a display with information regarding the granting of women's and Aboriginal rights to vote and Edith Cowan as Australia's first female MP.



The botanical garden area is larger than the area I've covered but along with the bird's-eye view from the walkway, it is a great way to learn about WA's landscape and flora. It also re-affirms that our flora, fauna and the Nyoongar people are unique to the south-west of WA.

#free
#parks
#perth_city
#tourist_sites
#views
#walks
%wnperth