Lake Galup (Monger) Reserve Swale Refurbishment

Lake Monger (Galup) Reserve is a significant urban wetland, wildlife habitat and drought refuge in Wembley. On its eastern edge, a network of swales receives stormwater from surrounding drains before it enters the lake. Over time, deeper channels, loss of sedges, invasive trees and contaminated sediment had reduced the swales' capacity to remove nutrients, hydrocarbons and other pollutants. The Town of Cambridge commissioned the refurbishment to restore this natural treatment function, reduce the risk of algal blooms and improve habitat around the lake.

JBA provided landscape architectural design and implementation services for the swale refurbishment. Drawing on survey, hydraulic and ecological information, the team refined channel geometry and levels to slow flows and increase residence time, developed earthworks and cut-to-fill plans, and specified soil treatments, structures and dense native planting. JBA role included design development, detailed design, costing, construction documentation and superintendency, working with the wider team to integrate stormwater treatment, constructability and habitat outcomes.

The refurbished swale reached practical completion in July 2023. Works removed more than 500 invasive trees, over one hectare of weed cover and more than 1,000 tonnes of debris, sediment and weed material. More than 30,000 plants, including wetland, dryland and tree species, were installed, together with a limestone rock weir, 34 fallen logs and conservation fencing. Fauna management included relocating 40 turtles, as well as nests, outside the construction area. The project restored stormwater treatment and habitat functions and won Stormwater WA's 2024 Award for Excellence in Integrated Stormwater Design.