Today, 22nd of April, my family went to enjoy one of the very few things small children can enjoy, a trip to the park. My girls, 2 & 4yo, have been isolated at home for 5 weeks. We had every intention of social distancing like anyone else that was walking dogs or exercising, only to find the shire had workers and a ranger putting up barriers and tape to restrict access to the Secret Garden in Gwelup. The ranger said they had tried to keep it open, but due to a surge in complaints yesterday, a total of 16, they were forced to close it.

I’m calling on everyone to help us re-open the park so children can have even the occasional piece of joy in these hard times.

Say no to NIMBY (not in my backyard) mentality, parks belong to all!