Pelican Point is a popular recreational spot for wind and kite surfers as well as families with children because of the kids playground . Up until recently we have been enjoying the use of the parking area adjacent to the spot for free on weekends and after-hours. At these times the parking area is predominantly used by families with children, wind and kite surfers.

Having spoken to the City of Perth about the recent changes, we were told these were due to them taking over the reserve (including car park) from City of Subiaco almost two years ago?! This parking was always free for use by the community while under City of Subiaco. First thing City of Perth did after the controversial City of Perth Act came into effect on 01 July 2016 was implement paid parking Mon-Fri 8-5pm. This has recently been extended to 24/7!

The reality is that making this car park paid on weekends and after-hours places unnecessary financial burden on visitors who go there because of the playground, barbecue area, wind and kite surfing, seeking a more active lifestyle. For some one visiting the spot 3 times a week this can easily add up to $ 950 per year, and many of us go there even more often. A family just going for a picnic once a weekend will have to find $624 cash.

In addition these groups cannot park along the free weekend street parking in the surrounding areas as it is unreasonable to expect them to carry picnic baskets, chairs and heavy sporting equipment in order for them to enjoy the facilities.

We would like to appeal to the City of Perth to revert back to providing free parking at the dedicated parking area at JH Abrahams Reserve on weekends and after hours in line with all other surrounding areas. The alternative has the unintended consequence of families with children, wind and kite surfers being unfairly disadvantaged.