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  3. Heirisson Island

Heirisson Island

We recognise and acknowledge Whadjuk people as the Traditional Owners of Swan Canning Riverpark.

See kangaroos living right in the city! Walk around this little island and stop for a barbecue with views of the city.

No dogs

No park entry fee

Heirisson Island
Tourism WA

About this place

The area in which Heirisson Island is currently located is an important area for Nyoongar people. Once comprising of a small chain of islands and surrounding mud flats, this area is known as Matagarup, which refers to the place where the river is only leg deep. Where the island currently stands was a much smaller island known as Kakaroomup. This area was a main crossing point from one side of the river to the other, where Nyoongars could wade through the water. A statue of Whadjuk Nyoongar warrior Yagan was erected on the island in 1984 to recognise Yagan’s strong leadership and resistance fighting during the early years of the Swan River Colony.

In 1801, Heirisson Island was named after French midshipman François-Antoine Boniface Heirisson, who was on the French ship Le Naturaliste, which was a scientific expedition led by Nicolas Baudin. Today the island is still used as the main crossing from one side of the river to the other, using the causeway bridge. The island has barbecues, picnic shelters, a children’s playground, a kangaroo sanctuary and toilets.

This area is managed by the City of Perth. For more information visit the City of Perth.

Back to Swan Canning Riverpark

Safety information

Plan when to visit. Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life!

Facilities

Barbecue

Toilet

Picnic table

Activities

Picnicking

Plants, wildlife and fungi

Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded within a 5km radius of Heirisson Island.

Traditional Owners

NGAALA KAADITJ WHADJUK MOORT KEYEN KAADAK NIDJA BOODJA.
We recognise and acknowledge Whadjuk people as the traditional owners of the land and waters of Swan Canning Riverpark.

Need to know

No dogs

No pets allowed

No park entry fee

Entry to Swan Canning Riverpark is free.

Toilets

Toilets are available.

Park office / Contact

Swan Canning Riverpark Office

Phone: 08 9278 0900

Contact this office by email

Location

Destination Perth
Perth
Perth Coast & Plain

Park boundaries are approximations only and should not be used for navigation or orientation purposes.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional owners throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

Connect with us

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Main navigation

  • Home
  • Explore WA's parks

    All parks

    Park Finder Map

    Attractions and places to visit

    Trails

    Regions of WA

    • Australia's South West
    • Australia's Coral Coast
    • Australia's North West
    • Australia's Golden Outback
    • Destination Perth
  • Experiences
  • Activities
  • Know before you go

    Know before you go

    Get the practical ‘know how’ to adventure into Western Australia’s national parks confidently, responsibly and safely.

  • Get inspired
  • Where to stay
  • Park alerts

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