Rockingham General Hospital showcases new garden that reduces risk of bushfires

Rockingham General Hospital is taking emergency preparedness to another level with its new fire-wise garden.

The space, known as Walbreninj Bidi, is WA’s first State asset fire-wise landscape and aims to strengthen the hospital’s protection against bushfires while also offering a calm, therapeutic space for patients, staff and visitors to enjoy.

Located outside the Mimidi Park mental health inpatient unit and between the hospital and surrounding bushland, the Forever Project-designed garden features fire-retardant and water-wise plants, offering a low-maintenance landscape that contributes to bushfire mitigation.

It has new walkways, seating areas and quiet corners for reflection, all designed to induce a connection with nature and enhance mental health and wellbeing.

The garden makeover was supported by the City of Rockingham, with mayor Deb Hamblin saying it fit the city’s commitment to emergency preparedness, sustainability, and climate resilience.

“With more than 67 per cent of the city zoned as bushfire-prone, it’s fantastic to see a carbon-neutral, fire-wise installation that also embodies the principles of re-use and the circular economy,” Ms Hamblin said.

“Proactive planning for bushfires and emergencies helps ensure our community and environment are better protected and more adaptable to future challenges.”