MAYlands Walks organiser and local historian Tina Askam stands beneath the Peninsula Hotel’s grand ceiling.
Camera IconMAYlands Walks organiser and local historian Tina Askam stands beneath the Peninsula Hotel’s grand ceiling. Credit: Supplied/Marcus Whisson        www.communitypix.com.au d436093

Get to know Maylands

Lauren PilatEastern Reporter

MAYlands Walks is four free walking tours through the suburb exploring its sporting history, natural and urban environments, influence of residents on the area, and problem areas for pedestrians.

Ms Askam developed the idea as part of her two-year Doctor of Philosophy research at Edith Cowan University into how walking connects people to the spaces they inhabit.

The West Leederville resident said she based the interactive exhibition on global movement Jane's Walk, citizen-led walks inspired by writer and urban activist Jane Jacobs.

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"Jane's Walks create the time and space for people to learn about their cities, connect with their neighbours and share ideas," Ms Askam said.

"The walks will be happening in thousands of suburbs and cities across six continents, from London and Paris to Maylands this May.

"The interactive exhibit will shine a light on issues, ideas and spaces highlighted as important to Maylands by those who participated in the research."

Ms Askam said the City of Bayswater was undergoing a period of great change and Maylands in particular was a hive of building activity to bring higher density to the suburb.

"So many people have told me they support high density but believe it needs to be carefully planned, with supporting infrastructure, like better public transport," she said.

"But as well as this, the amenities that make a suburb unique need to be preserved and maintained, such as trees and gardens, built and natural heritage, diversity and local creativity. Residents and decision makers are beginning to realise that people power works."