Published on Tuesday, 30 June 2026 at 1:29:20 PM
Nyoongar connections and cultural heritage were at the heart of the relaunch of interpretive signage for the Niergarup Bidi (Track) recently.
The Town, in partnership with its Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group, officially declared the signage updated on Monday 15 June.
Elder Neville Collard shared a Welcome to Country, highlighting the Nyoongar connection to East Fremantle.
Selected students from East Fremantle Primary School and Richmond Primary joined Town Councillors, staff and members of the Town’s Reconciliation Action Group at the event.
Students heard how, as the next generation of leaders, they could support reconciliation through curiosity, learning and knowledge sharing.
Town of East Fremantle Mayor Tony Natale said efforts to refresh the five signs represented an important step in recognising the rich cultural heritage of the bidi, and in the Town’s reconciliation journey.
“We were particularly committed to adding more Nyoongar language translations,” he said.
“Through projects like this, the Town is working to ensure stories are not only preserved, but made visible, valued, and shared with future generations.”
Known as ‘the place where the pelicans meet’, the Niergarup Bidi is a traditional place of significance for the Beeliar people. It was used as a hunting ground and for ceremonies.
The spring water attracted people and animals, akin to an ancient supermarket on the hill.
Interpretive signage has been on bidi since 2001 and was last replaced in 2012.
Today, the 1.2km bidi – accessible from Merv Cowan Reserve on Angwin Street, or Riverside Drive near The Leftbank – is a popular walking track.
Over 12 months, the Town worked closely with its Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group, and Mr Collard, to review and update the information.
The signs can be found along the bidi. Each shares insights from Nyoongar knowledge, early settlers and the many communities that have shaped the area over time.
Mayor Natale encouraged community members to visit the bidi and to pause, reflect and deepen their connection to country.
Back to All News