The Burswood Park board says it will investigate the safety of its riverside recreation site after two children drowned in the Swan River on New Year's Eve.
Key points:
- Tributes have been left near the scene where two children drowned
- Safety at Burswood Park is now under review
- A playground near the scene will also be investigated
A four-year-old girl and six-year-old boy were found floating in the river at about 5pm on Sunday at Burswood Park, near a playground.
Hundreds of people had gathered at the park to bring in the new year.
The children were pulled from the water and taken to hospital, but both died.
In a statement, the board — which oversees the park — said the exact circumstances of the incident remain unclear.
"Burswood Park board will be collaborating with police and the Coronial Investigation Squad to assist them with whatever information is required," the statement read.
The board expressed its "deepest sympathy and condolences" to the children's families.
"Burswood Park board places the utmost importance on ensuring the safety and well-being of all visitors to Burswood Park and will also undertake a review of the riverside area's safety, including the playground," the board said.
The playground at the park is fenced off, but parent groups have previously expressed concerns about the lack of locking latches, which means children can open the gates themselves.
The river bank directly opposite the playground has a plain wire fence stretching slightly longer than the length of the playground.
Community pays tribute
Witnesses have previously described the rush in the moments after the children were found in the water, as people tried to save the pair, pulling them from the water and performing CPR.
Flowers and other tributes have been placed near the bank where the children drowned.
One family left a card offering their condolences.
"We don't know you, but as parents of young kids ourselves we are so sorry to learn of what happened to you," the card read.
"You are in our thoughts and may angels cuddle your kids now."
WA Police on Monday revealed the two children knew each other, but said no further details would be released while the coronial investigation was ongoing.
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