This morning, the long-awaited repairs to Melros Urban Park in Anaconda Loop began, marking an important milestone for the community. For years, the park has been plagued by difficult drainage issues that made the space troublesome for locals. During winter, the pathway would often be flooded by run-off water, making it difficult and unwelcoming to use. Conversely, the summer months turned the sandy path into a danger zone for children riding their bikes, with numerous skidding accidents reported over the years.

Recognizing the significance of addressing these problems, the council has launched a plan to revamp the park and restore its usability for the community.

What’s Happening on the Ground

Currently, the council’s team is tackling essential groundwork to lay the foundation for future improvements. A section of the large hedge running along the footpath has been cleared—not completely removed but substantially thinned out to open up the space. While some locals expressed disappointment that the intimidating hedge is not being entirely replaced by low-maintenance greenery, this change represents a step towards a more accessible and welcoming area.

To address the persistent water issues, workers are in the process of creating a swale system. This feature is designed to guide water away from the pathway while allowing it to soak into the ground or flow towards designated drainage outlets. Additionally, limestone blocks are being introduced in select areas to prevent run-off and enhance stability in high-traffic zones. Though it’s unclear exactly where these blocks will be positioned, they are expected to reinforce the pathways and keep them safe for regular use.

These changes are part of broader improvements planned for Melros Urban Park, with more upgrades expected in the coming months. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned and look forward to a reinvigorated local space that should be a source of pride for the community.

Community at the Heart of Revitalization

What’s truly special about the repairs to Melros Urban Park is the active role the community is playing through the council’s ‘Embrace a Space’ initiative. This innovative program encourages community members to take ownership of local spaces, with the council providing guidance and support every step of the way. By fostering pride and investment in public areas, the initiative aligns with Mandurah’s broader vision of connecting people with nature while enhancing the charm and usability of its parks and reserves.

The improvements to Melros Urban Park were jumpstarted by the local community opting into the ‘Embrace a Space’ program—a win-win collaboration aimed at rejuvenating the space and giving it new purpose. The program not only focuses on physical enhancements but emphasizes the importance of building strong neighbourhood ties and promoting mental well-being by working together on shared goals.

The Benefits of ‘Embrace a Space’

This initiative is more than just a beautification effort; it symbolizes a deeper connection between residents and their surroundings. Through ‘Embrace a Space,’ groups of community members collaborate to celebrate and care for important spaces, transforming them into vibrant places of connection and activity.

Some of the notable benefits include:

• Connecting residents with each other and frequent users of the space.
• Promoting mental well-being by encouraging outdoor activities and fostered relationships.
• Creating safer, healthier parks that reflect what the community values most.
• Providing opportunities to learn about the local area, including its flora and fauna.

The process begins with a community meeting where residents share ideas, concerns, and suggestions about the space. These discussions form the basis of a collective vision, which the council helps bring to life through supporting activities and structural changes.

Looking Ahead

The initiative not only addresses practical issues such as flooding and sandy pathways but enriches the emotional and social fabric of the community. For many, the park’s transformation is about more than improved infrastructure—it’s about creating a shared space that nurtures friendship, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for Dawesville's natural beauty.

Events like the upcoming ‘Cleanup Day’ on February 1st will provide further opportunities for residents to engage with the park’s revitalization. During the event, the community can discuss the ‘Embrace a Space’ initiative and learn more about how they can be part of the ongoing changes. Everyone is invited to lend their input, join hands with neighbours, and help define what this park can mean for future generations.

Melros Urban Park is well on its way to becoming a shining example of how collaboration between the council and the community can breathe new life into an underutilized space. With each step of progress, residents are reminded of the importance of working together to build a better, stronger, and more connected neighbourhood.