Residents frustrated by Swan River littering

By Saskia Tjahja Mount Pleasant residents Reynald and Georgia Walter are concerned over the amount of litter frequently left behind by fishers along the riverbank underneath Mount Henry Bridge. The couple, in their 60s, takes pride in the way the Swan River looks from their house, but late night fishers and crabbers are causing them a headache. Mr Walter says people often fish on the jetty, and leave behind all sorts of rubbish from newspapers, excess bait, fishing lines, empty bottles and plastic bags. He said people are still littering even though one of the park’s rubbish bins is located just around the corner. “I try to keep the area clean as much as I can, for others to enjoy.” Mr Walter said, “I can’t believe people are careless enough to leave rubbish that can easily fall into the river.” Both are worried the marine life and surrounding wetlands will be affected by the litter. “People should take more pride in sharing this beautiful river, and respect the environment”, Mrs Walter said. This area under the bridge, although a popular fishing spot, seems to be the latest battleground over fishing and crabbing, as nearby residents report littering issues while others consider it a public place to enjoy a beloved stretch of river. “I understand why local residents are upset, especially when they live right by the jetty, because the area is still part of their property“, said Joyce Lau, who lives on the corner of The Esplanade and Canning Ave. “But it is a public park, and people enjoy the river in different ways.” The Swan River was awarded the status of Western Australia’s first heritage icon in 2004, which recognized the river’s recreational, cultural and environmental significance to the people of Perth. The river has also been an abundant source of black bream, flathead, river prawns and blue crabs. Anyone who notices activities that may be harmful to the Swan River can call the Swan River Trust on (08) 9278 0900.