New River Journeys Interpretation Node bringing Swan River stories to life at Burswood Park

A new River Journeys Interpretation Node is now open along the banks of the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) at Burswood Park foreshore.

It’s a new opportunity for the people of Perth (Boorloo) and visitors to connect with the river’s unique heritage, designed to create a continuous trail of interpretive spaces stretching from Fremantle to Guildford.

The collaboration between Burswood Park Board and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) brings together cultural insights and environmental stewardship, creating a meaningful experience visitors.

The new node is a chance to explore the cultural and ecological stories of the river, delivered through the words of Whadjuk elder Dr. Noel Nannup and sandblasted artwork by Whadjuk artist Justin Martin.

Along the journey visitors can learn more about the traditional significance of Joorolup (“place of the jarrahs”) and discover the tale of the yakkan (oblong turtle), an integral part of the river’s ecosystem.

Burswood Park continues to become an important gathering, learning and celebratory place for the wider Perth community, and the new node seeks to continue the legacy, offering visitors a chance to explore, reflect and deepen their understanding of this vital waterway.

The Burswood Park interpretation node is the eleventh in DBCA’s River Journeys Program, and you can find out more here.

Image Credit (L-R): David McFerran, Chairperson, Swan River Trust Board (MC), Jayden Boundary, Noongar Language Teacher and Cultural Consultant with Ngalak Nidja, John McGrath, President, Burswood Park Board, Hon Hannah Beazley MLA, Minister for Local Government; Youth; Minister Assisting the Minister for Training and Workforce Development, Member for Victoria Park, Stuart Smith, Director General, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Nick Abraham, Owner and Lead Guide at Warrang-Bridil