Sir Frederick Samson Memorial Reserve

Sir Frederick Samson Memorial Reserve (Samson Park) is the most significant bush reserve in the City of Fremantle, cared for by community custodians and well-used by dog walkers, families and nature lovers.

Previously the property of the Armed Forces during WWII, the bushland space that makes up the reserve was taken over by the Fremantle Council in 1971 and was officially vested in the City of Fremantle in 1985.

Located in the City’s easternmost suburb of Samson, this recognised Bush Forever site has two substantial segments of remnant Jarrah, Marri and Tuart woodland that once dominated the Fremantle region.

In addition to the abundance of endemic native plants, this reserve is also home to over 50 bird species, reptiles, and bats. The grassed area that dissects the park is also a popular recreation spot, featuring a fenced children’s playground, BBQ facilities, a basketball court and small toilet block.

A woman wearing a blue sweater and shorts walks along a sandy, tree-lined path surrounded by a wire fence in a sunlit forest setting.

Two women wearing yellow safety vests and hats stand outdoors in a forested area. One woman gestures with her hands while speaking, and the other listens, with trees and foliage visible in the background.

A person wearing a yellow safety vest and hat crouches outdoors in a wooded area, holding a black bucket and working near young plants with protective stakes in the ground.

A group of children sit on mats and small stools in a forest, listening to an adult in a black cloak. Some adults stand nearby, and sunlight filters through the trees. The children have notebooks and drawing materials.

A group of people, including adults and children, gather outdoors in a wooded area, listening to a person speaking at the center. Some attendees wear hats and high-visibility vests. Sunlight filters through the trees.

Nyoongar Six Seasons project at Samson Park

KAYA!

This project is a collaboration between the City of Fremantle, Whadjuk consultant Freda Ogilvie and Aboriginal consultant Marissa Verma. Together, they extended a warm invitation to the sixth grade students from Samson Primary School, inviting them to embark on a unique journey at Sir Frederick Samson Park a Bush Forever site. Freda Ogilvie’s vision was to introduce the students to the rich tapestry of Nyoongar culture, offering insights into the Six Seasons, and illuminating the profound significance of the Samson Bush Forever Reserve.

During Djeran, under the open skies of Samson Park, an outdoor art class came to life. As Freda Ogilvie shared her wisdom, assisted by Narelle Ogilvie the students were captivated and inspired. Following her guidance, each student’s creativity blossomed onto paper as they depicted the essence of each of the Six Seasons. These heartwarming images have been transformed into a sign that now stands proudly in the Bush Node next to McCombe Avenue, depicting the Nyoongar Six Seasons.

A visit to Samson Park becomes an adventure as visitors can decipher the signs, uncovering the rhythm of the seasons and the ever-changing landscape.