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Coordinates: 32°15′55″S 115°41′10″E / 32.26528°S 115.68611°E / -32.26528; 115.68611
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{{Short description|Headland in Rockingham, Western Australia}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2016}}
{{Distinguish|text =Cape Peron in [[Francois Peron National Park]], Shark Bay}}
'''Cape Peron''' ({{coord|32|15|55|S|115|41|10|E |type:landmark_region:AU-WA |display=inline,title}}) is a [[Headlands and bays|headland]] at [[Rockingham, Western Australia|Rockingham]], at the southern end of [[Cockburn Sound]] in [[Western Australia]]. It contains the suburb of [[Peron, Western Australia|Peron]]. Locally known as '''Point Peron''',<ref>[http://www.rockingham-tourism.com/1/pointperon.html Rockingham Parks and Wildlife: Point Peron] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110224221650/http://www.rockingham-tourism.com/1/pointperon.html |date=24 February 2011 }} at Rockingham-tourism.com</ref> the cape is noted for its protected beaches, limestone cliffs, reefs and panoramic views. Officially, "Point Peron" is the designation of a minor promontory on the south side of the cape's extremity.
{{Infobox landform
| water =
| name = Cape Peron
| type =[[Cape (geography)|Cape]]
| photo = File:Point Peron lookout, July 2019 02.jpg
| photo_caption = Looking south at Cape Peron and [[Shoalwater Islands Marine Park]]
| elevation =
| elevation_ref =
| map = Australia Perth
| map_relief = 1
| map_caption = Location within Perth, Western Australia
| label_position = none
| location = [[City of Rockingham|Rockingham]], [[Western Australia]]
| coordinates = {{coord|32|15|55|S|115|41|10|E|type:landmark_region:AU-WA |display=inline, title}}
| embedded = {{OSM Location map
| coord = {{coord|-32.1|115.4}}
| zoom = 8
| float = right
| nolabels = 1
| width = 260
| height = 200
| title = Cape Peron
| caption =


| shapeD=triangle
The feature was named after the French [[Natural history|naturalist]] and [[zoologist]] [[François Péron]], who accompanied the expedition of [[Nicolas Baudin]] along the western coast of Australia in 1801.
| shape-colorD=dark blue
| shape-outlineD=white
| label-colorD = dark blue
| label-sizeD = 12
| label-posD = left
| label-offset-xD =
| label-offset-yD =


| label1 = Cape Peron
A causeway has been constructed between Cape Peron and [[Garden Island, Western Australia|Garden Island]] to carry vehicle traffic between the mainland and the island. Since the island houses a major [[HMAS Stirling|naval base]], access is restricted by the military.
| mark-coord1 = {{coord|32|15|55|S|115|41|10|E}}
| mark-title1 = Cape Peron


}}
The wreck of the [[RMS Orizaba|RMS ''Orizaba'']] (1886–1905) lies just north, between the cape and Garden Island.
{{clear}}
}}
'''Cape Peron''' is a headland at [[Rockingham, Western Australia|Rockingham]], at the southern end of [[Cockburn Sound]] in [[Western Australia]]. The cape is locally known as '''Point Peron''',<ref>[http://www.rockingham-tourism.com/1/pointperon.html Rockingham Parks and Wildlife: Point Peron] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110224221650/http://www.rockingham-tourism.com/1/pointperon.html |date=24 February 2011 }} at Rockingham-tourism.com</ref> and is noted for its protected beaches, limestone cliffs, reefs and panoramic views. Cape Peron includes the suburb of [[Peron, Western Australia|Peron]], and "Point Peron" is the designation of a minor promontory on the south side of the cape's extremity.
{{wide image|Cape Peron Panorama.jpg|900px|align-cap=center|Panorama of the eastern side of Cape Peron}}

The feature was named after the French [[Natural history|naturalist]] and [[zoologist]] [[François Péron]],<ref>{{cite encyclopedia |last=Marchant|first=Leslie R. |entry=Péron, François (1775–1810)|entry-url=https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/peron-francois-2545 |encyclopedia=Australian Dictionary of Biography |location=Canberra|publisher=National Centre of Biography, Australian National University|language=en|access-date=2022-02-09|last2=Reynolds|first2=J. H.}}</ref> who accompanied the expedition of [[Nicolas Baudin]] along the western coast of Australia in 1801.

A causeway was constructed in 1973 between Cape Peron and [[Garden Island, Western Australia|Garden Island]] to carry vehicular traffic between the mainland and the island. Since the island houses [[HMAS Stirling]], a [[Royal Australian Navy]] base, access is restricted by the military.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Wynne |first1=Emma |title=WA's Garden Island is not just a naval base, it's an ark for rare species and keeper of colonial history |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-07-30/garden-island-wa-naval-base-hidden-history/11351430 |access-date=5 November 2021 |work=ABC News |date=30 July 2019}}</ref>

The wreck of [[RMS Orizaba|RMS ''Orizaba'']] (1886–1905) lies on Five Fathom Bank, {{convert|5.5|km}} west of the cape.<ref>{{cite web |title=R.M.S. Orizaba |url=https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/14693083 |newspaper=Sydney Morning Herald |access-date=5 November 2021 |page=11 |date=18 February 1905 |via=Trove}}</ref>


==Land use==
==Land use==
The cape and southern environs comprise a [[Crown land#Australia|crown land]] reserve on which a number of recreational resort activities and camps have been established, including buildings constructed of [[asbestos]] material which are now unsuitable. During [[World War II]], an observation post for the nearby coastal battery was located on the hilltop, and the old buildings remain, being listed as a permanent entry on the national estate.<ref name=rlrpNov2010/>{{rp|10}}
The cape and southern environs comprise a [[Crown land#Australia|crown land]] reserve on which a number of recreational resort activities and camps have been established, including buildings constructed of [[asbestos]] material which are now known to be unsuitable for human use. During [[World War II]], an observation post for the nearby coastal battery was located on the hilltop, and the old buildings remain, being listed as a permanent entry on the national estate.<ref name=rlrpNov2010/>{{rp|10}}


Control was vested in the [[Commonwealth of Australia]] until 10 January 1964, when the land was transferred to the state of Western Australia on condition that future use was restricted to purposes of public recreation and/or parklands. It was further agreed that when existing holiday-camp leases expired, the entire area would become an A-class reserve.<ref>{{Cite report|url=http://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/commit.nsf/(Report+Lookup+by+Com+ID)/D8F3BF5C23AEB56648257831003E96D4/$file/ev.024.061206.rpf.007.xx.a.pdf|title=A Petition into the Proposed Marina at Point Peron |authors=Standing Committee on Environment and Public Affairs|date=December 2006|website=Western Australian Parliament|publisher=Western Australian Legislative Council|access-date=30 May 2016}}</ref>
Control was vested in the [[Commonwealth of Australia]] until 10 January 1964, when the land was transferred to the state of Western Australia on condition that future use was restricted to purposes of public recreation and/or parklands. It was further agreed that when existing holiday-camp leases expired, the entire area would become an A-class reserve.<ref>{{Cite report|url=http://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Parliament/commit.nsf/(Report+Lookup+by+Com+ID)/D8F3BF5C23AEB56648257831003E96D4/$file/ev.024.061206.rpf.007.xx.a.pdf|title=A Petition into the Proposed Marina at Point Peron |author=Standing Committee on Environment and Public Affairs|date=December 2006|website=Western Australian Parliament|publisher=Western Australian Legislative Council|access-date=30 May 2016}}</ref>


Cape Peron is currently included in planning by the state's Department of Environment and Conservation for the Rockingham Lakes Regional Parks. It is one of the scheme's main areas or estates<ref name=rlrpNov2010>[http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/parks/management-plans/decarchive/rockingham_lakes_regional_park_management_plan__cover.pdf Rockingham Lakes Regional Park Management Plan, 2010] PDF download at Department of Environment and Conservation</ref>{{rp|8}} and a former environment minister, Donna Faragher, drew attention to its "extremely high nature conservation values [providing] the local community with a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural environment".<ref name=faragher>[http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/content/view/6223/1/ Final management plan released for Rockingham Lakes Regional Park] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110221205615/http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/content/view/6223/1/ |date=21 February 2011 }} at Department of Environment and Conservation, 19 November 2010 </ref>
Cape Peron is currently included in planning by the state's Department of Environment and Conservation for the [[Rockingham Lakes Regional Park]]. It is one of the scheme's main areas or estates<ref name=rlrpNov2010>[http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/parks/management-plans/decarchive/rockingham_lakes_regional_park_management_plan__cover.pdf Rockingham Lakes Regional Park Management Plan, 2010] PDF download at Department of Environment and Conservation</ref>{{rp|8}} and a former environment minister, [[Donna Faragher]], drew attention to its "extremely high nature conservation values [providing] the local community with a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural environment".<ref name=faragher>[http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/content/view/6223/1/ Final management plan released for Rockingham Lakes Regional Park] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110221205615/http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/content/view/6223/1/ |date=21 February 2011 }} at Department of Environment and Conservation, 19 November 2010 </ref>


=== Military use ===
=== Military use ===
[[File:Point Peron trig - panoramio.jpg|thumb|A trig station on top of a former coastal defence bunker]]
[[File:Point Peron trig - panoramio.jpg|thumb|A trig station on top of a former coastal defence bunker]]
From 1942 until 1945, Cape Peron was the site of the "K" Battery complex, one of a chain of coastal gun emplacements defending the [[Perth]] region between [[Swanbourne, Western Australia|Swanbourne]] in the north and Cape Peron in the south.<ref>{{cite report |author=City of Rockingham |author-link=City of Rockingham |date=27 February 2016 |orig-year= Created 6 July 1993 |title=Cape Peron Battery Complex |url=http://inherit.stateheritage.wa.gov.au/Public/Inventory/Details/cd22c007-693c-46bc-b68c-50d2d4217a21 |publisher=Heritage Council, Western Australia |id= Place number 03365|access-date=30 May 2016 }}</ref> "K" Battery was established as part of Australian coastal defences in 1942 following the fall of Singapore to the Axis powers and the imminent threat of invasion of Australia by Japanese forces. This chain of gun emplacements was colloquially named "Fortress Fremantle" and included sites at both [[Rottnest Island]] and [[Garden Island (Western Australia)|Garden Island]]. During World War II, Fremantle was not only the Allied forces' largest submarine base in the southern hemisphere, it was also an important logistical port, troop station and location for ship repairs.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/ahdb/search.pl?mode=place_detail;search=place_name%253Dperon%253Blist_code%253DRNE%253Bkeyword_PD%253Don%253Bkeyword_SS%253Don%253Bkeyword_PH%253Don%253Blatitude_1dir%253DS%253Blongitude_1dir%253DE%253Blongitude_2dir%253DE%253Blatitude_2dir%253DS%253Bin_region%253Dpart;place_id=18515|title=Australian Heritage Database|website=www.environment.gov.au|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref>
From 1942 until 1945, Cape Peron was the site of the "K" Battery complex, one of a chain of coastal gun emplacements defending the [[Perth]] region between [[Swanbourne, Western Australia|Swanbourne]] in the north and Cape Peron in the south.<ref>{{cite report |author=City of Rockingham |author-link=City of Rockingham |date=27 February 2016 |orig-date= Created 6 July 1993 |title=Cape Peron Battery Complex |url=http://inherit.stateheritage.wa.gov.au/Public/Inventory/Details/cd22c007-693c-46bc-b68c-50d2d4217a21 |publisher=Heritage Council, Western Australia |id= Place number 03365|access-date=30 May 2016 }}</ref> "K" Battery was established as part of Australian coastal defences in 1942 following the [[fall of Singapore]] to the Axis powers and the imminent threat of [[Proposed Japanese invasion of Australia during World War II|invasion of Australia]] by [[Imperial Japanese Armed Forces|Japanese forces]]. This chain of gun emplacements was colloquially named "Fortress Fremantle" and included sites at both [[Rottnest Island]] and [[Garden Island (Western Australia)|Garden Island]]. During World War II, Fremantle was not only the Allied forces' largest submarine base in the [[southern hemisphere]], it was also an important logistical port, troop station and location for ship repairs.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/ahdb/search.pl?mode=place_detail;search=place_name%253Dperon%253Blist_code%253DRNE%253Bkeyword_PD%253Don%253Bkeyword_SS%253Don%253Bkeyword_PH%253Don%253Blatitude_1dir%253DS%253Blongitude_1dir%253DE%253Blongitude_2dir%253DE%253Blatitude_2dir%253DS%253Bin_region%253Dpart;place_id=18515|title=Australian Heritage Database|website=www.environment.gov.au|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref>


The battery consisted of two 155mm American field guns, two observation posts and numerous support buildings including ammunition magazines, engine and generator rooms, and troop accommodation for approximately 100 troops. The guns were placed to cover any shipping within range of Rockingham, Safety Bay and the western side of Garden Island.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.rockingham.wa.gov.au/getmedia/e5f0777b-e663-4363-8559-5bdc3bcf3fbf/PD_Municipal_Heritage_Inventory_September-2012.pdf.aspx|title=City of Rockingham|date=September 2012|website=Municipal Heritage Inventory|publisher=City of Rockingham|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref> In addition to providing cover for shipping, "K" Battery also provided cover for a [[Boom (navigational barrier)|boom defence]] across the south channel that provided access to [[Cockburn Sound]] between Cape Peron and Garden Island.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Anderson|first=Ross|date=2011|title=Fear of the deep: Cockburn sound's world war II anti-submarine boom defence.|url=http://search.informit.com.au.ipacez.nd.edu.au/documentSummary;dn=717582597863889;res=IELHSS|journal=AIMA Bulletin|doi=|pmid=|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref>{{Verify quote|type=restricted-library source|date=May 2016}} The battery never fired upon an enemy target and was decommissioned in 1945.<ref name=":1" />
The battery consisted of two {{convert|155|mm|adj=on}} American field guns, two observation posts and numerous support buildings including ammunition magazines, engine and generator rooms, and troop accommodation for approximately 100 troops. The guns were placed to cover any shipping within range of Rockingham, Safety Bay and the western side of Garden Island.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.rockingham.wa.gov.au/getmedia/e5f0777b-e663-4363-8559-5bdc3bcf3fbf/PD_Municipal_Heritage_Inventory_September-2012.pdf.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605062213/http://www.rockingham.wa.gov.au/getmedia/e5f0777b-e663-4363-8559-5bdc3bcf3fbf/PD_Municipal_Heritage_Inventory_September-2012.pdf.aspx |archive-date=2016-06-05 |title=Municipal Heritage Inventory |date=September 2012|website=City of Rockingham|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref> In addition to providing cover for shipping, "K" Battery also provided cover for a [[Boom (navigational barrier)|boom defence]] across the south channel that provided access to [[Cockburn Sound]] between Cape Peron and Garden Island.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Anderson|first=Ross|date=2011|title=Fear of the deep: Cockburn sound's world war II anti-submarine boom defence.|url=http://search.informit.com.au.ipacez.nd.edu.au/documentSummary;dn=717582597863889;res=IELHSS|journal=AIMA Bulletin|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref>{{Verify quote|type=restricted-library source|date=May 2016}} The battery never fired upon an enemy target and was decommissioned in 1945.<ref name=":1" />
{{As of|2016}}, the complex lies in a state of disrepair with the gun emplacements and observation posts suffering from extensive structural damage due to erosion, vandalism, reclamation by the natural environment and pedestrian activity.<ref name=":0" /> There have been calls over the years for the site to be rehabilitated and repaired into a memorial to remember Australia's wartime history. There have been various restoration efforts with [[Australian Army Reserve|Australian Army Reservists]] and the Department of Environment and Conservation taking part, but limited funding has resulted in the complex remaining in disrepair.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-05-03/wwii-coastal-protection-batteries-restoration/6440602|title=Reservists help restore Point Peron coastal defence battery|date=2 May 2015|website=ABC News|language=en-AU|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Hansard%5Chansard.nsf/0/d304d35273fb20bd48257d9a0018519f/$FILE/C39%20S1%2020141120%20p8494b-8495a.pdf|title=K Battery Restoration|last=Edman|first=Phil|date=20 November 2016|website=Extract from Hansard|publisher=Parliament of Western Australia|access-date=30 May 2016}}</ref> A group known as the Point Peron Restoration Project is leading a push to restore the site, stating their goals as being:{{quotation|
{{As of|2016}}, the complex lies in a state of disrepair with the gun emplacements and observation posts suffering from extensive structural damage due to erosion, vandalism, reclamation by the natural environment and pedestrian activity.<ref name=":0" /> There have been calls over the years for the site to be rehabilitated and repaired into a memorial to remember Australia's wartime history. There have been various restoration efforts with [[Australian Army Reserve|Australian Army Reservists]] and the Department of Environment and Conservation taking part, but limited funding has resulted in the complex remaining in disrepair.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-05-03/wwii-coastal-protection-batteries-restoration/6440602|title=Reservists help restore Point Peron coastal defence battery|date=2 May 2015|work=ABC News |location=Australia |language=en-AU|access-date=12 May 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/Hansard%5Chansard.nsf/0/d304d35273fb20bd48257d9a0018519f/$FILE/C39%20S1%2020141120%20p8494b-8495a.pdf|title=K Battery Restoration|last=Edman|first=Phil|date=20 November 2016|website=Parliament of Western Australia|access-date=30 May 2016}}</ref> A group known as the Point Peron Restoration Project is leading a push to restore the site, stating their goals as being:{{quotation|
1. Create a memorial "sanctuary for reflection" whilst preserving and maintaining the local Point Peron reserve, with upgraded local amenities to preserve and protect the history of the area.
1. Create a memorial "sanctuary for reflection" whilst preserving and maintaining the local Point Peron reserve, with upgraded local amenities to preserve and protect the history of the area.


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===Proposed private development===
===Proposed private development===
A proposal for an extensive private residential canal and marina redevelopment caused much controversy among the local community until refused necessary planning approval by the state government on 1 March 2018.<ref name=emmayoung>Young, Emma. [http://www.watoday.com.au/wa-news/ten-years-of-my-life-joy-in-point-peron-as-marina-proposal-dumped-20180301-h0wvbz.html 'Ten years of my life': joy in Point Peron as marina proposal dumped]. ''[[WAtoday]]'', 1 March 2018. Retrieved 18 March 2018</ref><ref>Mercer, Daniel. "Marina Development sunk". ''[[The West Australian]]'', 2 March 2018, p. 20</ref> The project was advanced by a state government agency, [[LandCorp]], in partnership with Cedar Woods Properties Limited, and titled "Mangles Bay Marina Based Tourist Precinct"<ref name=landcorp>[https://manglesbaymarina-com-au.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/pdf/manglesbay_indicative_land_use_plan_150513.pdf Mangles Bay Indicative Land Use Plan]</ref> Acceptance of the proposal would have required abrogation of a 1964 compact for everlasting public ownership, and transfer of 77 hectares to the developer.
A proposal for an extensive private residential canal and marina redevelopment caused much controversy among the local community until refused necessary planning approval by the state government on 1 March 2018.<ref name=emmayoung>Young, Emma. [http://www.watoday.com.au/wa-news/ten-years-of-my-life-joy-in-point-peron-as-marina-proposal-dumped-20180301-h0wvbz.html 'Ten years of my life': joy in Point Peron as marina proposal dumped]. ''[[WAtoday]]'', 1 March 2018. Retrieved 18 March 2018</ref><ref>Mercer, Daniel. "Marina Development sunk". ''[[The West Australian]]'', 2 March 2018, p. 20</ref> The project was advanced by a state government agency, [[LandCorp]], in partnership with Cedar Woods Properties Limited, and titled "Mangles Bay Marina Based Tourist Precinct"<ref name=landcorp>{{Cite web |url=https://manglesbaymarina-com-au.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/pdf/manglesbay_indicative_land_use_plan_150513.pdf |title=Mangles Bay Indicative Land Use Plan |access-date=14 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151018183024/https://manglesbaymarina-com-au.s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/pdf/manglesbay_indicative_land_use_plan_150513.pdf |archive-date=18 October 2015 }}</ref> Acceptance of the proposal would have required abrogation of a 1964 compact for everlasting public ownership, and transfer of {{convert|77|ha}} to the developer.


Prolonged public objection led by "Hands Off Point Peron"<ref>[http://handsoffpointperon.com/get-the-facts Hands Off Point Peron] Official website</ref> claimed such development would damage [[seagrass]] beds, threaten the stability of ecosystems at nearby [[Lake Richmond]] and result in significant long-term maintenance expense to taxpayers, besides loss of the land's current status as a regional park.<ref>[http://handsoffpointperon.com/get-the-facts#Why%20Hands%20Off%20Point%20Peron%20is%20opposed%20to%20this%20current%20development%20plan Why Hands Off Point Peron is opposed to this current development plan] at 'Hands Off Point Peron' protest site</ref>
Prolonged public objection led by "Hands Off Point Peron"<ref>[http://handsoffpointperon.com/get-the-facts Hands Off Point Peron] Official website</ref> claimed such development would damage [[seagrass]] beds, threaten the stability of ecosystems at nearby [[Lake Richmond]] and result in significant long-term maintenance expense to taxpayers, besides loss of the land's current status as a regional park.<ref>[http://handsoffpointperon.com/get-the-facts#Why%20Hands%20Off%20Point%20Peron%20is%20opposed%20to%20this%20current%20development%20plan Why Hands Off Point Peron is opposed to this current development plan] at 'Hands Off Point Peron' protest site</ref>
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[[File:Cape Peron June 2018.jpg|thumb|Part of the shoreline and offshore islands at Cape Peron]]
[[File:Cape Peron June 2018.jpg|thumb|Part of the shoreline and offshore islands at Cape Peron]]
=== Terrestrial flora ===
=== Terrestrial flora ===
Cape Peron is an unprotected headland that is subsequently exposed year round to severe prevailing southerly and westerly winds, and hot, dry summers. These harsh environmental conditions result in the endemic species of flora to Cape Peron being typical of Western Australian coastal shrubs. Hardy, [[halotolerant]] plants such as [[Spinifex (genus)|spinifex]], sea-heath (''[[Frankenia pauciflora]]'') and coastal sword-sedge (''[[Lepidosperma gladiatum]]'') are commonplace close to the shore, abating to coastal scrublands that consist of [[Acacia sensu lato|wattle]], [[coastal daisy-bush]] and grasslands, amongst other species.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=http://birdlife.org.au/images/uploads/branches/documents/WA-46ab_rockingham.pdf|title=Birds of the City of Rockingham|date=2010|website=Birdlife Australia|publisher=City of Rockingham|access-date=16 May 2016}}</ref>
Cape Peron is an unprotected headland that is subsequently exposed year round to severe prevailing southerly and westerly winds, and hot, dry summers. These harsh environmental conditions result in the endemic species of flora to Cape Peron being typical of Western Australian coastal shrubs. Hardy, [[halotolerant]] plants such as ''[[Spinifex (coastal grass)|Spinifex]]'', sea-heath (''[[Frankenia pauciflora]]'') and coastal sword-sedge (''[[Lepidosperma gladiatum]]'') are commonplace close to the shore, abating to coastal scrublands that consist of [[Acacia sensu lato|wattle]], [[coastal daisy-bush]] and grasslands, amongst other species.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=http://birdlife.org.au/images/uploads/branches/documents/WA-46ab_rockingham.pdf|title=Birds of the City of Rockingham|date=2010|website=Birdlife Australia|access-date=16 May 2016|archive-date=20 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220120132737/https://birdlife.org.au/images/uploads/branches/documents/WA-46ab_rockingham.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref>


=== Oceanic flora ===
=== Oceanic flora ===
The underwater flora of Cape Peron consists of many species of algae, including red, green and brown algae, that develop dependent on the exposure of the reef platform they grow on to weather and tides. Away from the rocky limestone reefs, expanses of sandy seafloor beds contain large seagrass meadows containing a variety of species of kelp.<ref name=":3">{{Cite book|title=Marine Communities of the Cape Peron, Shoalwater Bay and Warnbro Sound Region, Western Australia|last=Gordon|first=David M.|publisher=Department of Conservation and Environment|year=1986|isbn=0 7309 0603 5|location=Perth}}</ref>
The underwater flora of Cape Peron consists of many species of algae, including red, green and brown algae, that develop dependent on the exposure of the reef platform they grow on to weather and tides. Away from the rocky limestone reefs, expanses of sandy seafloor beds contain large [[seagrass meadow]]s containing a variety of species of kelp.<ref name=":3">{{Cite book|title=Marine Communities of the Cape Peron, Shoalwater Bay and Warnbro Sound Region, Western Australia|last=Gordon|first=David M.|publisher=Department of Conservation and Environment|year=1986|isbn=0-7309-0603-5|location=Perth}}</ref>


=== Terrestrial fauna ===
=== Terrestrial fauna ===
Studies undertaken by the [[Environmental Protection Authority of Western Australia|Environmental Protection Authority]] (EPA) have recorded an extensive variety of fauna at Cape Peron. It is common to find large seabirds, for instance osprey, albatross and cormorants amongst the cliff faces or searching for prey. Wading birds, such as whimbrels and a variety of gulls are also found closer to the shoreline and nesting in the cliffs of Cape Peron. [[Little penguin]]s have also been spotted at the site, although they are not known to breed at, or inhabit the site. Further away from the coast, and into the scrubland of Cape Peron, it is common to find rainbow bee-eaters, grey fantails, inland thornbills and silvereyes.<ref name=":2" /> An extensive survey of terrestrial fauna undertaken by the EPA found ninety-six species of fauna living at Cape Peron. Of the ninety-six species found, there were: sixty-six species of avifauna, nineteen species of reptiles including lizards and snakes, five species of amphibians and six species of mammals.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.handsoffpointperon.com/sites/handsoffpointperon.com/files/HOPP%20files/To%20Upload/ManglesBay_Scoping_document_v9%5B1%5D.pdf |title=Mangles Bay Marina Based Tourist Precinct - Scoping Document |last=Strategen Pty. Ltd. |date=February 2011 |website=Hands Off Point Peron |publisher=Strategen Environmental Consultants |access-date=16 May 2016 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320200023/http://handsoffpointperon.com/sites/handsoffpointperon.com/files/HOPP%20files/To%20Upload/ManglesBay_Scoping_document_v9%5B1%5D.pdf |archivedate=20 March 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref> All native animals found at Cape Peron are protected under the ''[[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999]]''. Furthermore, a total of forty-seven of the species observed are listed as protected on the Department of Environment and Conservation’s priority list.<ref name=":3" />
Studies undertaken by the [[Environmental Protection Authority of Western Australia|Environmental Protection Authority]] (EPA) have recorded an extensive variety of fauna at Cape Peron. It is common to find large seabirds, for instance osprey, albatross and cormorants amongst the cliff faces or searching for prey. Wading birds, such as whimbrels and a variety of gulls, are also found closer to the shoreline and nesting in the cliffs of Cape Peron. [[Little penguin]]s have also been spotted at the site, although they are not known to breed at, or inhabit the site. Further away from the coast, and into the scrubland of Cape Peron, it is common to find rainbow bee-eaters, grey fantails, inland thornbills and silvereyes.<ref name=":2" /> An extensive survey of terrestrial fauna undertaken by the EPA found ninety-six species of fauna living at Cape Peron. Of the ninety-six species found, there were: sixty-six species of avifauna, nineteen species of reptiles including lizards and snakes, five species of amphibians and six species of mammals.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.handsoffpointperon.com/sites/handsoffpointperon.com/files/HOPP%20files/To%20Upload/ManglesBay_Scoping_document_v9%5B1%5D.pdf |title=Mangles Bay Marina Based Tourist Precinct - Scoping Document |last=Strategen Pty. Ltd. |date=February 2011 |website=Hands Off Point Peron |access-date=16 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320200023/http://handsoffpointperon.com/sites/handsoffpointperon.com/files/HOPP%20files/To%20Upload/ManglesBay_Scoping_document_v9%5B1%5D.pdf |archive-date=20 March 2012 }}</ref> All native animals found at Cape Peron are protected under the ''[[Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999]]''. Furthermore, a total of forty-seven of the species observed are listed as protected on the Department of Environment and Conservation's priority list.<ref name=":3" />


=== Oceanic fauna ===
=== Oceanic fauna ===
The varied underwater landscape of Cape Peron accommodates a variety of sea life. The intertidal reef platforms host an array of sea squirts, sponges, urchins and molluscs that cling to the reef. In and around the various reefs, ledges, overhangs and swathes of seagrass meadows it is not uncommon to find a sizeable variety of marine life, including but not limited to: bottlenose dolphins, grey nurse sharks, great white sharks, Australian sea lions, loggerhead turtles, pink snapper, King George whiting, baitfish, tailor, garfish, skipjack trevally, and blue swimmer crabs.<ref>{{Cite journal|date=2004-07-01|title=Fragaszy, D. M., Perry, S. (eds). 2003: The Biology of Traditions: Models and Evidence. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. 474 pp., Hardcover: $95. ISBN 0-521-81597-5.|url=http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1439-0310.2004.00989.x/abstract|journal=Ethology|language=en|volume=110|issue=7|pages=576–577|doi=10.1111/j.1439-0310.2004.00989.x|issn=1439-0310}}</ref><ref>{{Cite report|url=http://www.epa.wa.gov.au/EPADocLib/Rep%201471%20Mangles%20Bay%20PER%20290413.pdf|title=Mangles Bay Marina-Based Tourist Precinct: Report and recommendations of the Environmental Protection Authority|authors=Cranford Pty Ltd and Western Australian Land Authority |date=April 2013 |publisher=Environmental Protection Authority|access-date=30 May 2016}}</ref>
The varied underwater landscape of Cape Peron accommodates a variety of sea life. The intertidal reef platforms host an array of sea squirts, sponges, urchins and molluscs that cling to the reef. In and around the various reefs, ledges, overhangs and swathes of seagrass meadows it is not uncommon to find a sizeable variety of marine life, including but not limited to: bottlenose dolphins, grey nurse sharks, great white sharks, Australian sea lions, loggerhead turtles, pink snapper, King George whiting, baitfish, tailor, garfish, skipjack trevally, and blue swimmer crabs.<ref>{{Cite journal|date=2004-07-01|title=Fragaszy, D. M., Perry, S. (eds). 2003: The Biology of Traditions: Models and Evidence. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. 474 pp., Hardcover: $95. ISBN 0-521-81597-5.|journal=Ethology|language=en|volume=110|issue=7|pages=576–577|doi=10.1111/j.1439-0310.2004.00989.x|issn=1439-0310}}</ref><ref>{{Cite report|url=http://www.epa.wa.gov.au/EPADocLib/Rep%201471%20Mangles%20Bay%20PER%20290413.pdf|title=Mangles Bay Marina-Based Tourist Precinct: Report and recommendations of the Environmental Protection Authority |author=Cranford Pty Ltd |author2=Western Australian Land Authority |date=April 2013|publisher=Environmental Protection Authority|access-date=30 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160617180818/http://www.epa.wa.gov.au/EPADocLib/Rep%201471%20Mangles%20Bay%20PER%20290413.pdf|archive-date=17 June 2016}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
Line 56: Line 95:
[[Category:Headlands of Western Australia]]
[[Category:Headlands of Western Australia]]
[[Category:Cockburn Sound]]
[[Category:Cockburn Sound]]
[[Category:Fremantle Fortress]]
[[Category:Peron, Western Australia|Cape]]
[[Category:Rockingham Lakes Regional Park]]

Latest revision as of 01:06, 1 November 2024

Cape Peron
Looking south at Cape Peron and Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
Looking south at Cape Peron and Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
Cape Peron is located in Perth
Cape Peron
Location within Perth, Western Australia
Coordinates: 32°15′55″S 115°41′10″E / 32.26528°S 115.68611°E / -32.26528; 115.68611
LocationRockingham, Western Australia

Cape Peron is a headland at Rockingham, at the southern end of Cockburn Sound in Western Australia. The cape is locally known as Point Peron,[1] and is noted for its protected beaches, limestone cliffs, reefs and panoramic views. Cape Peron includes the suburb of Peron, and "Point Peron" is the designation of a minor promontory on the south side of the cape's extremity.

The feature was named after the French naturalist and zoologist François Péron,[2] who accompanied the expedition of Nicolas Baudin along the western coast of Australia in 1801.

A causeway was constructed in 1973 between Cape Peron and Garden Island to carry vehicular traffic between the mainland and the island. Since the island houses HMAS Stirling, a Royal Australian Navy base, access is restricted by the military.[3]

The wreck of RMS Orizaba (1886–1905) lies on Five Fathom Bank, 5.5 kilometres (3.4 mi) west of the cape.[4]

Land use

[edit]

The cape and southern environs comprise a crown land reserve on which a number of recreational resort activities and camps have been established, including buildings constructed of asbestos material which are now known to be unsuitable for human use. During World War II, an observation post for the nearby coastal battery was located on the hilltop, and the old buildings remain, being listed as a permanent entry on the national estate.[5]: 10 

Control was vested in the Commonwealth of Australia until 10 January 1964, when the land was transferred to the state of Western Australia on condition that future use was restricted to purposes of public recreation and/or parklands. It was further agreed that when existing holiday-camp leases expired, the entire area would become an A-class reserve.[6]

Cape Peron is currently included in planning by the state's Department of Environment and Conservation for the Rockingham Lakes Regional Park. It is one of the scheme's main areas or estates[5]: 8  and a former environment minister, Donna Faragher, drew attention to its "extremely high nature conservation values [providing] the local community with a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural environment".[7]

Military use

[edit]
A trig station on top of a former coastal defence bunker

From 1942 until 1945, Cape Peron was the site of the "K" Battery complex, one of a chain of coastal gun emplacements defending the Perth region between Swanbourne in the north and Cape Peron in the south.[8] "K" Battery was established as part of Australian coastal defences in 1942 following the fall of Singapore to the Axis powers and the imminent threat of invasion of Australia by Japanese forces. This chain of gun emplacements was colloquially named "Fortress Fremantle" and included sites at both Rottnest Island and Garden Island. During World War II, Fremantle was not only the Allied forces' largest submarine base in the southern hemisphere, it was also an important logistical port, troop station and location for ship repairs.[9]

The battery consisted of two 155-millimetre (6.1 in) American field guns, two observation posts and numerous support buildings including ammunition magazines, engine and generator rooms, and troop accommodation for approximately 100 troops. The guns were placed to cover any shipping within range of Rockingham, Safety Bay and the western side of Garden Island.[10] In addition to providing cover for shipping, "K" Battery also provided cover for a boom defence across the south channel that provided access to Cockburn Sound between Cape Peron and Garden Island.[11][verify restricted-library source] The battery never fired upon an enemy target and was decommissioned in 1945.[10]

As of 2016, the complex lies in a state of disrepair with the gun emplacements and observation posts suffering from extensive structural damage due to erosion, vandalism, reclamation by the natural environment and pedestrian activity.[9] There have been calls over the years for the site to be rehabilitated and repaired into a memorial to remember Australia's wartime history. There have been various restoration efforts with Australian Army Reservists and the Department of Environment and Conservation taking part, but limited funding has resulted in the complex remaining in disrepair.[12][13] A group known as the Point Peron Restoration Project is leading a push to restore the site, stating their goals as being:

1. Create a memorial "sanctuary for reflection" whilst preserving and maintaining the local Point Peron reserve, with upgraded local amenities to preserve and protect the history of the area.

2. Preserve the remaining WWII landmarks of the Coastal Defence System at Point Peron in a dedicated museum collection to tell the story of the Australian Coastal Defence network in World War II.[14]

Proposed private development

[edit]

A proposal for an extensive private residential canal and marina redevelopment caused much controversy among the local community until refused necessary planning approval by the state government on 1 March 2018.[15][16] The project was advanced by a state government agency, LandCorp, in partnership with Cedar Woods Properties Limited, and titled "Mangles Bay Marina Based Tourist Precinct"[17] Acceptance of the proposal would have required abrogation of a 1964 compact for everlasting public ownership, and transfer of 77 hectares (190 acres) to the developer.

Prolonged public objection led by "Hands Off Point Peron"[18] claimed such development would damage seagrass beds, threaten the stability of ecosystems at nearby Lake Richmond and result in significant long-term maintenance expense to taxpayers, besides loss of the land's current status as a regional park.[19]

Flora and fauna

[edit]
Part of the shoreline and offshore islands at Cape Peron

Terrestrial flora

[edit]

Cape Peron is an unprotected headland that is subsequently exposed year round to severe prevailing southerly and westerly winds, and hot, dry summers. These harsh environmental conditions result in the endemic species of flora to Cape Peron being typical of Western Australian coastal shrubs. Hardy, halotolerant plants such as Spinifex, sea-heath (Frankenia pauciflora) and coastal sword-sedge (Lepidosperma gladiatum) are commonplace close to the shore, abating to coastal scrublands that consist of wattle, coastal daisy-bush and grasslands, amongst other species.[20]

Oceanic flora

[edit]

The underwater flora of Cape Peron consists of many species of algae, including red, green and brown algae, that develop dependent on the exposure of the reef platform they grow on to weather and tides. Away from the rocky limestone reefs, expanses of sandy seafloor beds contain large seagrass meadows containing a variety of species of kelp.[21]

Terrestrial fauna

[edit]

Studies undertaken by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) have recorded an extensive variety of fauna at Cape Peron. It is common to find large seabirds, for instance osprey, albatross and cormorants amongst the cliff faces or searching for prey. Wading birds, such as whimbrels and a variety of gulls, are also found closer to the shoreline and nesting in the cliffs of Cape Peron. Little penguins have also been spotted at the site, although they are not known to breed at, or inhabit the site. Further away from the coast, and into the scrubland of Cape Peron, it is common to find rainbow bee-eaters, grey fantails, inland thornbills and silvereyes.[20] An extensive survey of terrestrial fauna undertaken by the EPA found ninety-six species of fauna living at Cape Peron. Of the ninety-six species found, there were: sixty-six species of avifauna, nineteen species of reptiles including lizards and snakes, five species of amphibians and six species of mammals.[21][22] All native animals found at Cape Peron are protected under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Furthermore, a total of forty-seven of the species observed are listed as protected on the Department of Environment and Conservation's priority list.[21]

Oceanic fauna

[edit]

The varied underwater landscape of Cape Peron accommodates a variety of sea life. The intertidal reef platforms host an array of sea squirts, sponges, urchins and molluscs that cling to the reef. In and around the various reefs, ledges, overhangs and swathes of seagrass meadows it is not uncommon to find a sizeable variety of marine life, including but not limited to: bottlenose dolphins, grey nurse sharks, great white sharks, Australian sea lions, loggerhead turtles, pink snapper, King George whiting, baitfish, tailor, garfish, skipjack trevally, and blue swimmer crabs.[23][24]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Rockingham Parks and Wildlife: Point Peron Archived 24 February 2011 at the Wayback Machine at Rockingham-tourism.com
  2. ^ Marchant, Leslie R.; Reynolds, J. H. "Péron, François (1775–1810)". Australian Dictionary of Biography. Canberra: National Centre of Biography, Australian National University. Retrieved 9 February 2022.
  3. ^ Wynne, Emma (30 July 2019). "WA's Garden Island is not just a naval base, it's an ark for rare species and keeper of colonial history". ABC News. Retrieved 5 November 2021.
  4. ^ "R.M.S. Orizaba". Sydney Morning Herald. 18 February 1905. p. 11. Retrieved 5 November 2021 – via Trove.
  5. ^ a b Rockingham Lakes Regional Park Management Plan, 2010 PDF download at Department of Environment and Conservation
  6. ^ Standing Committee on Environment and Public Affairs (December 2006). A Petition into the Proposed Marina at Point Peron (PDF). Western Australian Parliament (Report). Western Australian Legislative Council. Retrieved 30 May 2016.
  7. ^ Final management plan released for Rockingham Lakes Regional Park Archived 21 February 2011 at the Wayback Machine at Department of Environment and Conservation, 19 November 2010
  8. ^ City of Rockingham (27 February 2016) [Created 6 July 1993]. Cape Peron Battery Complex (Report). Heritage Council, Western Australia. Place number 03365. Retrieved 30 May 2016.
  9. ^ a b "Australian Heritage Database". www.environment.gov.au. Retrieved 12 May 2016.
  10. ^ a b "Municipal Heritage Inventory". City of Rockingham. September 2012. Archived from the original on 5 June 2016. Retrieved 12 May 2016.
  11. ^ Anderson, Ross (2011). "Fear of the deep: Cockburn sound's world war II anti-submarine boom defence". AIMA Bulletin. Retrieved 12 May 2016.
  12. ^ "Reservists help restore Point Peron coastal defence battery". ABC News. Australia. 2 May 2015. Retrieved 12 May 2016.
  13. ^ Edman, Phil (20 November 2016). "K Battery Restoration" (PDF). Parliament of Western Australia. Retrieved 30 May 2016.
  14. ^ "Point Peron Restoration Project - About the Project". Retrieved 30 May 2016.
  15. ^ Young, Emma. 'Ten years of my life': joy in Point Peron as marina proposal dumped. WAtoday, 1 March 2018. Retrieved 18 March 2018
  16. ^ Mercer, Daniel. "Marina Development sunk". The West Australian, 2 March 2018, p. 20
  17. ^ "Mangles Bay Indicative Land Use Plan" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 18 October 2015. Retrieved 14 August 2015.
  18. ^ Hands Off Point Peron Official website
  19. ^ Why Hands Off Point Peron is opposed to this current development plan at 'Hands Off Point Peron' protest site
  20. ^ a b "Birds of the City of Rockingham" (PDF). Birdlife Australia. 2010. Archived from the original (PDF) on 20 January 2022. Retrieved 16 May 2016.
  21. ^ a b c Gordon, David M. (1986). Marine Communities of the Cape Peron, Shoalwater Bay and Warnbro Sound Region, Western Australia. Perth: Department of Conservation and Environment. ISBN 0-7309-0603-5.
  22. ^ Strategen Pty. Ltd. (February 2011). "Mangles Bay Marina Based Tourist Precinct - Scoping Document" (PDF). Hands Off Point Peron. Archived from the original (PDF) on 20 March 2012. Retrieved 16 May 2016.
  23. ^ "Fragaszy, D. M., Perry, S. (eds). 2003: The Biology of Traditions: Models and Evidence. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. 474 pp., Hardcover: $95. ISBN 0-521-81597-5". Ethology. 110 (7): 576–577. 1 July 2004. doi:10.1111/j.1439-0310.2004.00989.x. ISSN 1439-0310.
  24. ^ Cranford Pty Ltd; Western Australian Land Authority (April 2013). Mangles Bay Marina-Based Tourist Precinct: Report and recommendations of the Environmental Protection Authority (PDF) (Report). Environmental Protection Authority. Archived from the original (PDF) on 17 June 2016. Retrieved 30 May 2016.

Further reading

[edit]