Perth Voice Interactive

A NEW cultural cycling experience is cruising into Perth this month as WestCycle invites the community to explore the deep cultural Whadjuk roots of the city’s latest landmark, the Boorloo Bridge in East Perth.

Next Saturday (March 22), cyclists and pedestrians will hear from Whadjuk elder Aunty Karen Jacobs, who will share the environmental, historical, and cultural significance of the site before leading a ride across the Matagarup Kaardijin Bidi (Matagarup Knowledge Trail). The event promises river views, artworks, and a firsthand look at the bridge’s unique Noongar-inspired design.

“Matagarup is a very significant location to Whadjuk people and our history and refers to the place where the river is only leg deep,” Ms Jacobs said.

“It was always a crossing point for men only, as men and women did not enter ceremonial, sacred and prominent areas at the same location.

“This was one of very few shallow crossing points on the river, where there were six islands surrounded by mudflats, with a firm sandy crossing point in the middle.

“The crossing allowed Whadjuk people and visiting Aboriginal communities to enter onto Boorloo (our ancient city) for decision making, trade and barter, ceremony, and social interaction for thousands of years.”

West Cycle’s membership and engagement manager Rachel Pemberton said the bridge had been a game-changer for active transport in Perth. 

“The bridge has been really fantastic. It’s been a welcome addition to the active transport network, because the causeway bridge there has always been narrow and congested,” Ms Pemberton said.

“Now, they’ve got a dedicated space where people have plenty of room to walk, ride, or scoot.”

Beyond its practical benefits, the Boorloo Bridge stood as a testament to meaningful collaboration with Noongar elders, who played a key role in shaping the design.

“[Their help] led to where the pylons are positioned, they’ve integrated boomerang shapes, and the choosing of the placement in the water because the Swan River is a very sacred site for Noongar people,” Ms Pemberton said.

Ms Jacobs said the goal for the day was, “Slow down and take in the beauty and significance of the Matagarup, understand the cultural form of the Boorloo bridge, and why cultural heritage is so significantly represented in the construction and the design of the bridge”.

She also related the importance of Fanny Balbuk, a Noongar woman known for her resistance to colonial encroachment. 

“Fanny was known for breaking down and climbing over fences, erected by early settlers; she continued to walk traditional routes to gather bush foods,” Ms Jacobs said.

“Fanny was often arrested for forcing her way into newly constructed houses, built on traditional tracks, and smashing fence palings with her wanna (digging stick).

“Fanny would stand at the gates of the newly formed Government House cursing everyone inside, as the stone walls and gates were guarded by soldiers.” Ms Jacobs said the compound’s construction had enclosed Ms Balbuk’s grave.”

Cyclists are encouraged to bring their own bikes and helmets to ride the scenic trail, ending with a coffee and community chat at Point Fraser. Tickets are $10 for WestCycle members and $20 for non-members, with kids joining for free.

by IZZY GONZALEZ