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Mary Binks Wetlands

Located in East Devonport, the wetlands are an enriched habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna on approximately 1.7 hectares of land between Mary and Caroline Streets, opposite the East Devonport Recreation and Function Centre.

In September 2018 the Devonport City Council voted to rename the Mary Street Wetlands to recognise the city’s first female Mayor and long-time community advocate, the late Mary Binks OAM.
Mrs Binks served as Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Alderman of Devonport over a 13-year period from 1989.
She was awarded an OAM in 2005 and was Devonport’s Citizen of the Year in 2008.
During her time as Mayor, Mrs Binks was instrumental in establishing support for the wetlands.

Mary Bink Wetlands Interpretation board

Prior to the formation of the wetlands, the area was used as a landfill site for Council.

Upon its closure in 1999, local interest in re-establishing the wetlands was canvassed by Council and a Working Group involving nearby stakeholders and community members was set up.

Partnerships were established between Council, the Don College, Melaleuca Home for Aged, East Devonport Primary School and local residents.

In 2000, Council successfully gained the services of a Green Corps team to rehabilitate the site. Major earth works were carried out to form an open pond as well as adjacent boardwalk and pathway. Weed control and extensive native plantings were also undertaken.

In 2001, the Friends of Mary Street Wetlands Volunteer Group was formed, involving all above-mentioned stakeholders, with supervision by Council.
Council is interested in hearing from any individuals or groups wishing to re-form this group by volunteering time and energy to improve the biodiversity of the wetlands.

The Mary Street Wetlands project won a State Tidy Towns Major Environmental award in 2001. In 2002, the second stage of the walking pathway loop and seating was completed with additional assistance by a local Green Corps team and Work for the Dole team.

It is a fitting tribute that the area is now known as the Mary Binks Wetlands ensuring that Mrs Binks’ legacy and her community passion will be forever.

In 2020 a series of mosaic pavers were embedded into a new pathway within the park. The ceramic artwork was made by Devonport Regional Gallery and local community members of East Devonport Child and Family Centre, Reece High School and Devonport Community House Mosaic Club.

Things to see and do

  • Walk around the wetlands
  • Sit back and relax
  • Observe the wildlife
  • Check out the native plants
  • Have a picnic on the grass

Address: 93-95 Mary St, East Devonport TAS 7310, Australia

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