Residents of Ferndale continue to bring life and connection to their suburb through Women Who Walk, a community-driven initiative aimed at getting women outdoors, walking, and engaging with their neighbourhood.

The group meets every weekend outside Phoenix Bar and Restaurant in Ferndale, which offers safe and convenient parking. Walkers set out together to enjoy the fresh air, appreciate the area’s natural beauty, including the blooming jacarandas, and keep an eye out for issues that need attention.

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“This weekend’s walk started beautifully,” said organiser Leona Wilke, “but we had to cut it short when an unexpected thunderstorm rolled in. We rushed back to safety before the lightning got too close.”

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Despite the weather, and a smaller turnout of just two participants this time, the women retraced last week’s route along Main, Dover, and York streets. checking whether reported issues had been resolved. “We noticed the sewage problem on York Avenue was sorted out, and the illegal posters removed last week hadn’t reappeared,” said Wilke.

However, some broken storm water drains remain unfixed, and the group plans to bring black bags next time to collect litter along the pavements.

The initiative’s goal, Wilke explained, is simple, but meaningful. “We want to create safe spaces for women to connect, stay active, and take pride in our suburb. It only takes one person to start and others will follow.”

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