Nature lovers come out to play

Nature lovers are set to explore the beautiful natural bushland and hills of the City of Armadale during the Spring into Armadale Festival, from August to 30 November.

Visitors can experience with friends and family the Australian bush in Armadale with guided walks and hikes through the hills and gorges, bushland and wetlands.

City of Armadale Mayor Henry Zelones OAM, JP said the Spring into Armadale festival was an opportune time for nature lovers, and those into active exercise, to experience what the City of Armadale has to offer.

“Our community in the City of Armadale is spoilt for choice. As a metropolitan regional centre council, we are lucky to boast extensive natural assets in the form of bush and hills around us, and we want to share that with the wider Perth community.

“Whether you’re a nature lover, into exercise in the great outdoors, or just want a fun family day out, there’s something for everyone! Come and explore what the hills and bushlands of Armadale have to offer – there’s lots of activities on offer to suit all tastes and abilities.”

One of the events on offer is Nature’s Beauty Revealed on 9 September from 10am to 4pm, and 10 September from 10am to 3pm, at the Environmental Centre, Triston Crescent, Bedfordale.

This is an annual presentation by local environmental groups of the wonderful wildflowers, birds and other natural bushland beauty in the City of Armadale and surrounds.

“There will be displays of local wildflowers, Red-tailed Black cockatoos, photographic displays of insects, community environmental groups and bush tucker displays, native plants for sale, children’s activities, bush walks and more,” he added.

The more adventurous can explore the Armadale hills with several hikes on offer during the festival.

Explore under a new moon when the stars are at their brightest with the New Moon Hike in Jorgensen Park on 22 August from 5.30 to 7.30pm and 20 September from 6 to 8pm.

A Full Moon Hike at Jorgensen Park will be held on 6 September from 6pm to 8pm, along with a Full Moon Hike to the Upper Lesmurdie Falls on 5 October from 6 to 8pm. The hikes cost $15 and numbers are limited so bookings are essential.

Visitors looking for a challenge can hike Kitty’s Gorge on Sunday 27 August from 8.30am to 1pm. Allow yourself four hours for a challenging walk up the gorge to Gooralong and back. Or walk up to Jarrahdale and take a car ride to return to the park within three hours.

The Oxfam Trailwalker challenge will be held from 22 to 24 September. Visitors can challenge poverty by walking either 100km in 48 hours or 50km in 24 hours, through the beautiful Perth Hills.

The challenge costs $5 and all walkers must register from 8.30am at Serpentine Park before starting. Walkers are advised to bring walking shoes, a hat, weather protection, insect repellent, water, trail and hiking snacks.

“There is a wealth of other nature walks due to take place during the season including the Bibbulmun Track Walk, guided walks with naturalist Marc Lane where visitors can experience Ellis Brook Valley, and Wednesday Wetland Walks.”

To see the jam packed calendar of nature trails, walks and events go to www.visitarmadale.com.au/spring-armadale or contact the Armadale Visitor Centre on 9394 5410 for further information.