Back in September 2021 when the Yanchep Rail Extension Project began, around 550 Balgas (also known as grass trees) were carefully removed from the Ningana Bushland and have been lovingly cared for in a nursery ever since.

With the project now finished, 500 of these botanic beauties (ranging in size from 0.5m - 2m) have been replanted around Alkimos, Eglinton and Yanchep stations. To help the iconic Australian plants settle back into their surroundings, regular watering and trimming is part of their care regime and with a lifespan of up to 600 years, they have a long life ahead.

The 50 remaining Balgas continue to be cared for at the nursery for future planting. The relocation of the native species is part of the METRONET Sustainability Strategy that aims to minimise impacts from construction on flora, vegetation and terrestrial fauna, maintain ecological linkage and revegetate.

The Balga is a culturally significant plant to Noongar people:

• the flowering spike is used as a firestick and makes a good fishing spear
• the nectar forms a sweet, slightly fermented drink
• the resin is traditionally used as glue in spear-making and for patching water containers and didgeridoos
• the tough seed pods are used as cutting implements.