Each week, WAtoday reaches out to the Perth community to discover three things people love most about our coastal capital. Today we feature Murdoch University sustainability expert and author Chris Ferreira, whose projects transform unloved Perth spaces into welcoming gardens, and who annually opens his sustainable home for tours and workshops to teach people how they can achieve environmentally friendly housing. Chris Ferreira, The Forever Project.
1. The ecosystems of Perth. From the gorgeous Bibbulmun track to the stunning coastlines of Rottnest , this city is truly one of the world’s greatest biological hotspots.
The diversity of landscapes here is a testament to the resilience of life in harsh conditions. Despite the tough climate and challenging soils, Perth boasts some of the most beautiful and extraordinary gardens you can find anywhere, like the Curtin University grounds , Kings Park outside the Botanicals cafe and the Coogee Common gardens . Where else can you grow mangoes alongside alpine plants in the same landscape? It’s a place where nature thrives against the odds, and that resilience is mirrored in the people and their achievements.
2. Inclusivity. No matter where you go, there’s a warmth and friendliness in the air.
People here are ready for interaction and humour, often laced with self-deprecating wit that makes conversations uniquely enjoyable. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with some of the most innovative minds on the planet right here in Pert.
