Wetlands renamed in honour of former Mayor

Published on 02 April 2019

The Mary Street Wetlands, in East Devonport, was officially renamed in honour of the city’s first female Mayor, Mary Binks OAM on Saturday 30 March.

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, located between Mary and Caroline Streets.

Her husband, Chris, two of her children, Peter and Mary, and their partners were able to attend the unveiling of a commemorative panel.

Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff said she was delighted when Council voted to rename the wetlands last year.

"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 remembered," Cr Rockliff said.

The wetlands are an enriched habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna on approximately 1.7 hectares of land.

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

CAPTION: Pictured at the unveiling are (from left): Peter Binks, Catherine Lynch, Chris Binks, Mary Binks and Dean Yates.

Media Contact Nigel Tapp |03 6424 0562 | 0427 132 972 |[email protected]