Highlights from Western Australia in May
This month, Western Australia has been a hub of interesting stories and events. From the first female astronaut from Australia to cultural burials on Rottnest Island, here are some of the most compelling moments captured in photographs.
Mouse Plague: A Growing Concern
In Morawa, the situation has become dire with an unprecedented mouse plague. The town’s shire president described driving through the streets as “popping bubble wrap.” Thousands of rodents have invaded the area, causing significant damage. Farmers have had to take drastic measures, including increasing the strength of rodent baits to combat the infestation.
Astronaut Dreams: Inspiring the Next Generation
Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australia’s first female astronaut and 2026 Australian of the Year, has always had her eyes on the stars. During a regional tour in WA, she visited Kalgoorlie-Boulder to speak at a local school, inspiring young minds. She now has the opportunity to join a future space mission by the European Space Agency, though the challenge remains in raising the necessary $100 million for the journey.
WWII Tank Graffiti: A New Attraction
Near Albany, abandoned WWII fuel tanks have been transformed into a unique art installation. These seven tanks, reaching up to 20 metres high, have been brought to life by artists from around the world. For artist Chad Marwick, the project was about reclaiming space and telling historical tales. Signs have been placed to inform visitors about the tanks’ significance, with support from Veterans Assist.
Mystery Magpie Disease: A Concern for Wildlife
For the second year in a row, a mysterious disease has affected magpies, impacting around 500 of these iconic birds. Researchers are working to determine the cause, while wildlife carers worry about the potential decline in magpie populations.
Hantavirus Outbreak Response
Australia’s response to a deadly hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship centered in Perth involved six passengers being flown to WA’s quarantine facility. They will remain there for several more weeks after the Federal Government extended their quarantine period to June 23. The 500-bed facility, known as the Centre for National Resilience, has remained unused since its completion in 2022.
City of Perth: Tension and Suspensions
Tension has been rising in the City of Perth following the suspension of its CEO. Government commentary has described the council as “dysfunctional,” “diabolical,” and “immature.” The lord mayor has remained tight-lipped about the internal issues.
Native Title Record: A Historic Win
In the Federal Court in Perth, traditional owners from WA’s remote north made history by winning a significant native title claim. Andrew Forrest’s company Fortescue had mined hundreds of millions of tonnes of iron ore from their lands without permission. They were awarded $150 million for cultural loss and $150,000 for economic loss, marking the largest native title payout in Australia. The fight continues, with plans to appeal the decision.
Rottnest Burial: Revisiting a Dark Past
Human remains found during pre-construction works at Rottnest Island were returned for a cultural burial. For some Aboriginal representatives, this act symbolized a step towards truth-telling and peace.
Oral Histories: Adding New Perspectives
A new exhibition at the State Library in Albany is collecting oral histories from Menang Elders, offering different perspectives on historical events. Elder Lester Coyne describes this as adding a “piece to the puzzle” of a shared history.
School Needs: Investing in Special Education
Parents and advocates have been calling for better education outcomes for special needs children. A $16-million state government investment has been announced to develop a professional learning hub aimed at improving training for those working with special needs students. At Ocean Reef Senior High School, one in five students has specific needs, a figure that has significantly increased over the past decade.
