Darlington Review • Vol.63 No.3 • April 2023

MEMBERS OF THE DARLINGTON REVIEW

Darlington Hall future bookings ring Shire of Mundaring Booking Officer on 9290 6666 or bookings@mundaring.wa.gov.au

Non-profit community-based organisations may become members of the Review. Membership costs $140 per annum or $75 per six editions. This entitles organisations to a half-page in each issue. Please keep contributions to a half page (approx 400 words excluding photos).

Full page entry $265 per annum (approx 800 words excluding pictures). Six edition rate is $140.

EDITORIAL:

Editor: Marie Sherwood editorial@darlingtonreview.com.au

Business Manager: Betty Pitcher, PO Box 196, Darlington business@darlingtonreview.com.au | 9299 6623

EDITORIAL DEADLINE:

Material for each edition of the Review must be submitted before 5pm on the 20th of the preceding month. Please keep Letter to the Review brief and include your name, address and phone number. Contact details will not be printed and you can request that a pseudonym rather than your name be used. Letters must be emailed to: editorial@darlingtonreview.com.au or placed in the Review box in the Post Office by the deadline date of the 20th of the month. Material presented after deadlines cannot be accepted, however notes may appear on the online version of the Darlington Review at www.darlingtonreview.com.au

PRODUCTION/DESIGN: Antoinette Boyd | editorial@darlingtonreview.com.au

ADVERTISING:

Advertising Manager: Melissa Clarke advertising@darlingtonreview.com.au | 0422 883 030

DISPLAY ADVERTISING RATES:

1/2 page $165 (19 x 13 cms) • 1/3 page $132 (12.5 x 13 cms) • 1/6 page $66 (6 x 13 cms) • Front cover strip $166 and back cover strip ad $132 when available (conditions apply). Cover advertisements: The Review covers are available to community groups to publicise community events.

Front cover $166, back and inside back cover $132 each. All advertisements require print ready artwork. Print quality pdf preferred.

Fees may apply for artwork requiring amendment. Payment for first advertisements is required in advance. Placement of business advertisements and notification of cancellation must be emailed to the Advertising Manager (PO Box 196, Darlington, WA 6070) by 5pm on the 20th of each month.

CLASSIFIED ADS: $10 for 4 lines; $5 for students. Monies must be included with the advertisement and placed in the Review Box at Darlington Post Office by the 20th of each month.

DARLINGTON REVIEW WEBSITE: www.darlingtonreview.com.au

DARLINGTON VILLAGE WEBSITE: www.darlingtonvillage.org (sponsored by the Darlington Review).

PRINTERS: Vanguard Press, 26 John Street, Northbridge, WA 6003 | 9328 1388. (This publication is printed on PEFC certified 30% recycled paper and uses vegetable inks).

EDITORIAL

Spotlight on Local Businesses

People travel from all over Perth and surrounds to visit Darlington’s cafes, shops, and nature trails, with new homeowners (including myself) flocking to the area each week with the prospect of a happier, more peaceful life, but what makes Darlington so special?

Just a small village in the Perth Hills, Darlington plays host to not only a plethora of natural beauty from the national parks to the wildlife, but also an attractive society, which is what makes this area so sought after.

Angel A Petcare

Angel A Petcare is a professional dog grooming salon in the Hills run by Angela, who has spent 25 years as a surgical vet nurse and a registered advanced veterinary nurse. Angela’s priority is to maintain the health and comfort of animals by choosing grooming styles which are not only creative, but also promote good hygiene by keeping the coat clean, tidy, and free of irritants to prevent infections. Angela assesses animal behaviour and discomfort patterns to adapt her grooming where necessary or make referrals if required.

Angela has trained and associated with the best international and state master dog groomers, as well as having attended workshops with the Dog Grooming Association. She is also a puppy trainer and dog walker and hopes to travel to Malaysia to complete further training in Asian fusion styles. She is also developing a system which records lifesaving details in pet behaviours and transfers that information back to the veterinarian if required. Angela is also undergoing a business certification and developing her own grooming product range called Mermutts, specifically designed for Australian dogs. It’s clear that Angela’s knowledge, passion, and ideas for pet care needs are never ending!

You can enlist Angela’s services through her Facebook page @angelapetcare, Angela Williams through www.madpaws.com. au or contact her on 0423 154 989.

The next two editions of the Darlington Review will have a special focus on the people who make up this community and their interesting businesses, whether they be storefront, mobile, or at-home.

After reaching out to various locals and sending them a set of virtual interview questions, I was able to piece together a small insight into what they do, what inspires them and how they came to be.

AyorA Architecture

Javi Ayora is our new local architect located in the heart of Darlington, operating out of The Apiary behind the Hive. Since moving here in 2017 with his family, Javi had the vision of opening his own business in this incredibly inclusive and supportive community.

With over 20 years of experience and a fresh perspective, Javi’s goal as an architect is to provide attractive, legal, structurally sound, and environmentally efficient spaces, with physical and emotional comfort tailored to the expectations of his clients. He offers a range of services, from design conceptualization to construction inspections, and uses his problem-solving expertise and strong network to suggest cost-effective solutions for his clients. Javi loves to learn about each client’s unique story and to bring their building visions to life, giving them the peace of mind that their project is being handled with care. He particularly loves working on the more challenging sites like those common in Darlington. Visit their website to book your free onsite meeting at www. ayora.com.au, contact 0433 668 025, or email javi@ayora.com.au

Javi Ayora, owner of AyorA Architecture.

Angela Williams, owner of Angel A Petcare and Mermutts Grooming Products.

Backyard Bloom Hillside Nursery

Established in January 2022, Backyard Bloom Hillside Nursery is an online plant nursery that specialises in growing and selling a wide variety of outdoor and indoor plants to individuals, landscapers, and other businesses.

Owners Chris and Emily both attended school in Darlington and have been part of the community for most of their lives. They have diverse backgrounds, with Chris in logistics management stemming from his career in the Australian Army and Emily teaching Early Childhood. After discovering that plants were quite expensive from the regular retailers, they were inspired to find more affordable plants to offer the local community. They love being able to assist residents with their garden goals and aspirations and are also passionate about protecting the environment and promoting natural products. They have been expanding their small business by working with other local businesses, selling wholesale, offering a plant subscription, as well as running workshops and events such as their massive plant sale every two months. Eventually they would love to open an onsite nursery here in Darlington!

Budding Artists

Kirsty is in her 12th year of running Budding Artists, which hosts kids’ art classes, holiday workshops and most recently a day program for home-schooled children. Kirsty has run classes at Midland Junction Arts Centre and Hazelmere Hall, and her current classes are located at the Koongamia Playgroup Centre.

Kirsty has a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Graduate Diploma of Education in Early Childhood. She has 22 years of experience as a kids' art teacher focusing on the underlying mechanisms of teaching and using different artistic media, as well as providing an ever-changing program of fresh and fun art projects where all the mess is taken care of. She loves working with children, with paint and glue a regular hair accessory. Budding Artists hope to open their own Education & Community Centre in the area, with all kinds of art classes, community events and more!

You can find 'Budding Artists' on Facebook and Instagram @budding.artists, visit their website www.buddingartists.com. au, or email fun@buddingartists.com.au for more information.

You can see their products at www.backyardbloomnursery. com with free delivery to local residents. Alternatively, you can get in touch via Facebook and Instagram or check out their regular pop-up sales!

Thousand Reasons

Melanie has been operating Thousand Reasons in the Hills since 2013, working with many Darlington locals offering one-to-one coaching, corporate wellbeing, and goal-setting workshops, as well as Personal Training and women-only outdoor group fitness classes based in Darlington.

While Melanie has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and Pilates instructor, this year she will gradually transition from a fitness-based business to a coaching business. She loves working with high achieving, though often selfdoubting women who find themselves procrastinating, making excuses, or setting unattainable targets. Melanie loves seeing her inspirational clients take the next step by growing both physically and mentally confident and achieve more than they thought they could. Melanie aims to create an inclusive pressure-free environment which works around any injuries or restrictions and ensures that enjoyment and swinging on the monkey bars are paramount. Melanie is currently developing an online 12-month health and happiness program aimed at implementing simple healthy habits for the mind and body in a group of like-minded women, which will launch in August.

You can find more information about Melanie’s classes and coaching business on her website www.thousandreasons. com.au, email mel@thousandreasons.com.au, or check out her Facebook @thousandreasons.

Thousand Reasons

Kirsty McIntosh, owner of Budding Artists.

Bootcamp and (top) Melanie Kenworthy, owner of Thousand Reasons

Stu owns and runs Dedicated Auto Dealing, a mobile vehicle detailer servicing the communities of Darlington, Perth Hills and beyond. Stu offers a professional detailing service to the interior and exterior of motor vehicles, as well as the exterior of caravans, boats, and motorbikes.

Whilst still a young and up-and-coming business at 18 months old, Stu has years of experience in detailing his own vehicles to an extremely high standard and offers his services to anyone who lacks the time, ability, or know-how.

Stu is a friendly, professional, thorough detailer, and loves to sing whilst at work but you can be the judge of his skills. Stu takes great pride in his work and one day hopes to offer a dropoff service together with his mobile service, to reach a wider variety of clients and allow him to work in his own undercover space.

For your next mobile detailing service contact Stu on 0487 664 517, email dedicatedautodetailing@outlook.com.au, or check them out on Facebook @dedicatedautodetailing.

Earnshaws Real Estate

Earnshaws Real Estate has been operating out of Darlington since 2000. Servicing an area bigger than the city of Vienna in Austria, extending 475 square kilometres from Wundowie to Maida Vale, Gidgegannup to Kalamunda. Owners Lindsay and Kendall felt destined to form their own real estate business, using Lindsay’s 27 years of experience in real estate and Kendall’s upbringing in family-owned businesses, as well as State government, and hospitality experience.

Darlington was the perfect location for Lindsay and Kendall with its charming and quiet setting in the centre of the Perth

Juniper Creative

Named after a love of gin, Juniper Creative is a graphic design and printing studio located in Darlington, which focuses on creating the best visual representations for small businesses and individuals through logos, branding, printing collateral (business cards, flyers, banners etc.), and more personal items like invitations and posters.

Since 2018, owner and designer Cassandra has been caught up in the excitement of working with small businesses passionate about their product and services. Cassandra has over 17 years of experience in this field as a Graphic Pre-Press Designer, a niche trade that sits in-between the design and printing process, which gives her a unique insight on how to make the design stand out and how it will look once printed. Cassandra loves assisting businesses from start to finish, from their design requests to branding, printed, and published ready. Since moving to Darlington in 2022, Juniper Creative would love to build more connections and work with local businesses in the Perth Hills. For help with your designs, visit www.junipercreative.com.au or email cassandra@junipercreative.com.au.

Hills and allows their son Paddy to visit them after school. They love getting to know the locals through their stories and helping clients achieve their real estate goals. Lindsay and Kendall are committed to community engagement from sponsoring awards at five public primary schools in the area, as well as developing a partnership with Swan City Youth Service in Midland to support the social workers helping kids doing it tough. They also love being involved in Darlington’s Halloween celebrations and other local projects.

Head into the office in Darlington Village or call on 9299 6533 to book a chat with someone about your real estate needs.

Shirley Williams, owner Lindsay Earnshaw and Caitlin Earnshaw

Set amongst the backdrop of the beautiful Perth Hills, recently renovated Darlington Estate Winery was established in 1983 and boasts a restaurant, vineyard and now a cellar door café. Their restaurant offers A La Carte dining on Sundays, as well as hosting weddings and events. DEW’s café is open Thursday to Sunday for coffee, breakfast, and lunch from 7.00am until 2.00pm.

General Manager Johan and his family moved to Darlington just before Christmas and are really looking forward to getting involved in the local community and meeting more dog lovers at the Darlington oval. Johan has been involved in the hospitality industry for over 15 years, specialising in fine dining, events, and drinks, with his own cocktail bar Terrarium Perth located in Perth CBD. Johan has had a long-time ambition to run a winery and is excited to use his extensive experience and knowledge to grow Darlington Estate Winery. They aim to become carbon neutral, environmentally sustainable and grow more of their own ingredients on site. Eventually they would like to add accommodation and a distillery on their 40 acres, as well as host more live music and events.

You can find more information through their website www. darlingtonestate.com.au, email bookings@darlingtonestate. com.au, or check them out on Facebook and Instagram @ darlingtonestate.

Lou’s Kitchen

Marie Lavaeu Organics

Marie Laveau Organics has been operating right here in Darlington since 1989. They produce skin care products designed to suit people of all ages, with ranges that focus on mothers-to-be, babies, muscular aches and pains, sports injuries, and dry, sun damaged or acne prone skin, as well as a range of Oshadhi Essential Oils.

Owner Sue has a background as a Medical Scientist, specializing in Microbiology, Haematology and Biochemistry prior to commencing a career in natural therapies. Sue studied in Provence under Dr Malte Hozzel, the founder and president of Ayus Quality of Life Products in Germany and the creator of the Oshadhi line of products. When working in the Cook Islands in 1985, Sue first experienced the incredible healing power of plantbased products and decided to create her own line of fair trade, sustainably sourced, organic natural skin care with minimal environmental impact and handmade in Australia. Since then, Sue along with her daughter Bree have been specialising in essential oils, synergies, and natural therapy treatments.

Visit their online store for more information on their products www.marielaveauorganics.com.au or view their products in person at the Darlington Clinic on Sandover Road or Two Birds by the Post Office. Local residents are given a discount.

Lou's Kitchen has been catering to the Darlington and Perth community since May 2020, focusing on private and corporate events, gourmet picnics and grazing boxes, and specialises in freshly delivered weekly take home meals for those who lack the time or ability to cook.

Lou has a background in IT and Project Management but found her passion for catering after working for a catering company in Darwin. Lou and her husband Lee moved to Perth for work, but when Lee was unexpectedly made redundant at the start of the pandemic, Lou knew it was the time to take a leap of faith and pursue her passion

through her catering business. Lou loves being able to create tasty and artistic food for people to enjoy with friends and family. What started as a little home business, has developed into a fabulous catering business now run out of a fullyfledged commercial kitchen on their property in Darlington. Lou is so grateful to the Darlington and Hills community for being so supportive and making her business such a success.

For more information about catering your next event visit Cookaborough.com/louskitchen, visit her on Facebook @louskitchen77 or contact her on louskitchen.perth@gmail.com.

Megan Fraser, Wedding and Events Coordinator and Johan Velia, General Manager of Darlington Estate Winery).

Susan Lavell, owner of Marie Laveau Organics and daughter Bree Lavell.

Practice for Movement Integration

Annemarie has been a therapist for over 19 years and started her unique business nine years ago. Practice for Movement Integration is a blend of Physiotherapy and the Feldenkrais Method®, which combines hands-on clinical techniques and practices.

Annemarie uses these techniques to help teach the brain to re-learn certain movement patterns to relieve muscle tension and pain, and improve self-awareness, mobility, and physical comfort for the long term. It is appropriate for all ages and abilities, giving everyone the opportunity to improve their life from the way we walk, communicate, swim, recover from illness and injury, make decisions, deal with deadlines and conflict, and other stressful situations in life. Annemarie supports her clients in finding their own path to well-being through a journey of self-awareness to restore fluid, effortless, and joyful movement so they can live their lives to their full potential.

Annemarie works out of the Hills Psychology and Wellness Centre in Darlington Village on 20 Brook Road. You can find more information on her website www. practiceformovementintegration.com.au.

Oh She Did

Rochelle runs Oh She Did, an online tech consultancy that specialises in helping small business owners improve their online presence through developing websites, social media, email marketing and AI tools. In addition, Rochelle also serves as a Board Director and Secretary of a community bank.

Rochelle has extensive experience working in corporate and small businesses, in areas of online process system development, information technology, human resources, payroll, and bookkeeping. She has always wanted to own her own business and has a passion for helping other women in business, so it was only natural for her to utilise the skills she’d learnt in the corporate environment to start Oh She Did over three years ago. Rochelle loves meeting and working with amazing people from all over the Perth Hills community and beyond, from helping them set up their online presence, growing their business and reaching their goals. Rochelle aims to expand her business to a worldwide audience and provide resources and training on how businesses can utilise more Artificial Intelligence (AI).

For more information on developing your online presence visit www.ohshedid.com.au, email rochelle@ohshedid.com, or check out their Facebook @OhSheDid.

Priestess Moon Design

For 23 years Megan has been a practising artist with exhibitions and open studio days as well as displaying her artwork through her business Priestess Moon Design, which illustrates and writes oracle card decks for Rockpool Publishing.

These exquisite card decks cater to a variety of individuals interested in learning more about themselves and what they want from life, as well as those who generally enjoy tarot readings, psychics, crystals, oracle cards, spiritual pursuits, meditation, and astrology. With a Bachelor of Arts in Design and an ancestral Scottish background, Megan’s passion for symbology and medieval magick derived from Celtic spirituality and the natural world. Megan takes her inspiration from the nature and harmony of Darlington and loves being a part of such a historically artistic and supportive community of local artists. In 2021, Megan’s Making Magick Oracle cards were nominated for ‘Best Oracle Card Deck 2021’ in the International CARTA awards. She hopes to expand her business to include workshops and presentations. Visit www.priestessmoondesign.com to see her entire range of oracle cards, or email Megan on priestessmoondesign@ hotmail.com for more information.

(Annemarie de Heus, owner of Practice for Movement Integration.

Rochelle, owner of Oh She Did.

Megan Fraser, owner of Priestess Moon Design.

Two Birds by The Post Office

Celebrating their second anniversary on April 10, Two Birds in Darlington offers a large range of giftware, home decor, plants, and furniture, as well as a small range of both women’s and baby clothing. They place a heavy emphasis on promoting locally sourced, bespoke and artisan products made with passion and love. Owner Meg, her husband, son and two daughters have worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality, as well receiving invaluable support from friends and local artists. Meg’s vision began to flourish almost 10 years ago when she discovered her own creativity through jewellery making and painting. Meg hopes to expand into online shopping by creating a platform for local artists to get their works out into the world. The family also hope that more local businesses will continue to use their space for pop-up events, workshops, and weekend markets.

Two Birds is currently open Tuesday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm, Saturday 9.00am to 3.00pm, and Sunday 10.00am to 3.00pm. You can also visit their website www.twobirdsdarlington. com.au or follow them on Facebook and Instagram @twobirdsdarlington. If the flags are up, they’re open!

I have loved learning about all the remarkable small businesses that make up our community. After living here for just short of a year, it’s amazing how many of these paths I have already crossed and the interconnections between business owners

Darlington Review Annual General Meeting

The Review’s AGM in March was, as usual, a speedy affair (all of 20 minutes!). Business Manager Betty Pitcher used the occasion to thank Peter Edwards for decades of volunteering as honorary auditor and announced that a local accountant has volunteered to review the community magazine’s annual accounts.

Melissa Clark was confirmed as the Review’s new Advertising Manager replacing Julie Stuurstraat whose outstanding volunteering has been so much appreciated.

Due to rising printing and other costs, the Review made an annual loss, but overall finances are healthy, and the magazine was still able to support local groups such as the Darlington Arts Festival, Community Bonfire and Carols by Candlelight.

If you would like to view the Minutes and Statement of Income and Expenditure, Betty will be happy to email you a copy (email: business@darlingtonreview.com.au)

Upcoming Events

Darlington Ratepayers and Resident Association meeting to be held on Thursday April 13 at 7.30pm at the Darlington Hall. Mundaring Shire officers will be in attendance a nd Darlington items in the Shire’s capital works program

involved in other local businesses, and the social and community groups of Darlington. I will be continuing to pursue and discover more about our local businesses for the May edition of the Darlington Review, stay tuned!

will be discussed (see Councillor’s Column and Meeting Points).

Darlington Community Garden Bush Dance to be held on Saturday April 22 at 5:30pm, see www.darlingtoncommunitygarden.org. au for more information.

Kookaburra Cinema - If you spend an evening at the Kookaburra Cinema on a Saturday night you bump into many familiar faces – it sometimes seems as if half of Darlington is here! It’s been a good season for the little outdoor cinema that’s acknowledged as another of those Perth Hills gems. And Kookaburra has a strong line-up of films for April, so enjoy a balmy autumn evening, a picnic with the family and some great entertainment. Thank you, Kookaburra!

Two Birds Behind the Post Office - In celebration of their two-year anniversary, the champagne is on ice throughout the entire month of April at Two Birds. Pop on down for your glass of bubbles or follow them on Facebook @twobirdsdarlington to find out what else is happening to celebrate in store.

You’ll find coverage of local meetings this month in Meeting Points following the editorial.

Marie Sherwood | Editor

A new civic heart …?

At their February meeting, Mundaring Shire Councillors endorsed a proposed Engagement Strategy for a project could create a new civic and cultural heart for the town, including co-locating existing craft, health and cultural stakeholders. You can trace the evolution of this visionary project by visiting the Mundaring Shire MultiPurpose Community Project on the Engage Mundaring website where you’ll find maps, FAQs, and information about community engagement with community and stakeholders. Councillor Luke Ellery spoke about this project at the March Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association meeting (see DRRA notes). Luke was asked to list forthcoming Shire capital works projects impacting Darlington and has done so in his Councillor’s Column. He is also putting out a call for queries on these works so they can be answered by Shire officials attending the April 13 DRRA meeting. Locals clearly want input into planned road changes on Glen Road, and bridge upgrades in Glebe and Mofflin – to avoid a repeat of that over-the-top bridge on Victor! So, read his notes and prepare your queries.

DCRAG’s AGM and oval widening

Congratulations to Chair Trish Cook and Secretary Colin James who were returned to office at the Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group’s AGM. There’s info on the progress of many local projects in their notes. Those interested in the oval widening issue are invited to provide feedback on the sports clubs’ proposal to widen the oval (details on the DaSRA website). The Shire’s Infrastructure Manager Shane Purdy has told the clubs that while widening is technically possible, he questioned its practicality for a single age group of junior players who currently train/play on the regulation size Boya Oval, adding: “Given the wide community use of Darlington Oval including such events as DAF and the good quality facilities at Boya Oval the Shire would need to weigh this proposal against all other recreational requests and needs. The Shire is planning to review its Recreational Facilities Informing Strategy in 2023/24 at which time this proposal can be put forward by the Darlington sporting groups.” So, a decision will

Helena van der Reit writes:

Again, I find myself in a position where I am asking the Darlington Sporting Community to reflect on their desire for the two codes (only) which use our general purpose oval to enlarge it so that it may accommodate middle schoolers and upper schoolers. Do remember if you are a basketballer, netballer, gymnast, soccer player etc. you are obliged to go to other places for your code. Also recollect our oval is classified as a general use oval and is daily used by both the young, old and our fur babies.

This is the third time an expansion of our oval has been proposed. Twice it has been rejected.

Many letters have explained how two extremely well maintained ovals (Boya and Glen Forrest) at the cost of $100 000 ratepayer dollars each per annum are within less than 10 minutes drive away. These are available for the cricket and AFL codes to play on and can accommodate all those size requirements for different age groups including adults. Neither oval requires the crossing of

rest with the Shire. There’s more in DCRAG’s Oval Sub Committee Notes (following DCRAG Notes). You can provide feedback by emailing: dcrag.feedback1@gmail.com.

The release of Satterley’s revised North Stoneville proposal saw Save Perth Hills supporters chanting ‘We’re Saying No - Again’ at the developer’s office and at Parliament House recently. They cited significant bushfire evacuation risks, widescale environmental destruction and local traffic impacts (at least 8,000 extra traffic movements daily on surrounding rural roads). The group says the proposal remains 100% ‘Urban’ with previously proposed five-acre lots removed, two-storey townhouses added, and an estimated total population of up to 3,948 planned. “The lot reduction is an insulting illusion and illustrates why the Community must ‘Say No – AGAIN’ in public submissions to the Department of Planning,” says SPH Chair, Peter Brazier. He urges supporters to visit the SPH website/ Facebook for advice on submission points to emphasis by the May 8 deadline. Submissions should be sent to the Dept of Planning, not the Shire.

Trea Wiltshire

Letters to The Review

the busy Great Eastern Highway. Shire maintenance is mowing, weed and pest control, fertilising, laying and care of the cricket pitches, lighting and watering. Surely after the arguments about the environmental impact the visual changes will have on Darlington Oval and its surrounding village atmosphere, the cost of maintenance, so eye-wateringly expensive should make us pause? More-so, because we in Darlington, pride ourselves on our green credentials - this expansion is not a good outcome for our carbon footprint.

Let us have a look at the petitions agitating for the change:

The Junior Cricket Club secured 190 petitions supporting the expansion. I commend them on this effort and for disclosing the postcodes. Pretty impressive but let’s drill down. Based on the postcodes only 46 which is less than a quarter of the 190 were from Darlington residents, this approximates to 1.9% of

►► Continued page 10

“We’re saying No – Again”

◄◄ Continued from page 9

Darlington households. Residents from Boya, Guildford, Glen Forrest, Forrestfield, Maida Vale, Wooroloo and 70 from Perth city codes signed the petition. There were 12 postcodes from interstate. This is hardly a reflection of the 2000 plus households in Darlington. The petitions from the Darlington Football Club did not possess postal codes - why is that? This is a matter for Darlington residents to reflect upon, not for those from other suburbs.

Let us look at the use of the oval.

Currently the oval is used almost daily by all community members and shared with the young sport players. The sports players have 4 hour block bookings for practice sessions on weekdays and 7 hour block bookings for matches on the weekends. This prevents wholesale shared use but this has been tolerated as we all enjoy watching the youngsters play their codes. Clearly extra time will need to be allotted for extra team practise sessions and matches. Where would the rest of the community then go?

Dog walkers and social training for dogs comes to mind almost immediately. Most people walk their dogs to the oval. They do not present a problem with extra vehicular use and wanting the oval expanded, however should oval access be restricted then where would they go for their mental and physical health and that of their dogs? Again letters have been written about this shared community use.

In conclusion I do not believe this expansion of the oval has community wide support and I am not convinced the broader Darlington community is even aware it is occurring. Darlington residents are busy, working, bringing up children etc. This includes me who travels extensively for work, I look forward to coming home to the green village of Darlington with its slower pace of life and it restores my equilibrium.

Editor’s Note: See Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group (DCRAG) Oval Subcommittee Notes following DCRAG notes for details of how to provide community feedback on the sports clubs' oval widening proposal.

Nigel Walters writes:

Please keep Letter to the Review brief and include your name, address and phone number. Contact details will not be printed and you can request that a pseudonym rather than your name be used. Letters must be emailed to: editorial@ darlingtonreview.com.au or placed in the Review box in the Post Office by the deadline date of the 20th of the month.

Whilst cycling down the bridle track from Glen Forrest to Darlington after a shopping expedition to Mundaring, I was attacked by a dog; luckily only a graze and a modified pair of shorts resulted.

However, the story could have ended very differently if it had been a child or I had fallen down the embankment.

It’s a timely reminder to all dog owners to keep their dogs under effective control. In this instance it was a youngish dog on a retractable lead and unfortunately the owner did not have sufficient time to shorten the leash before I passed.

I am an ex dog owner myself and I know 99.9% of dog owners do the right thing. Please consider if a retractable lead is the right restraining device for your dog, particularly if your dog does not like cyclists!

Geoff Barker writes:

We are making a Darlington Film showing lives of people are enriched by being involved in community activities, with their involvement generating personal benefits including a sense of wellbeing, security, belonging and a healthy mental state.

To support this Film If you have old footage of Darlington and its events and activities that you can loan to the project or you can help financially please contact Geoff 0418 953 176 or geoffbarker52@gmail.com

Darlington Retirement Accommodation Association (Inc)

Welcome Back to The Wooroloo Working Party

Due to the Covid pandemic it has been some months since the Wooroloo working party has helped with the gardening at the Darlington Glen. The working party was not allowed to perform these duties during this period, however the gardens continued to grow and so the gardening has been carried out during this time by local contractor Craig Whittred from Jim’s Mowing under a local commercial contract.

Although Jim’s Mowing completed the work at a reasonable cost it has affected our bottom line as it had not been budgeted for in our yearly budget planning. During this period the Glen residents assisted by looking after their own gardens and carrying out the gardening duties as best as they were able.

Since returning, one of the Wooroloo team’s first tasks was to spread an enormous pile of mulch around all the gardens. The residents were extremely happy with this as the mulch had been delivered some time ago.

Also the Wooroloo working party has now taken on the task of repairing the Glen trailer which currently has a rusted-out tray, making it unsafe to store and transport garden waste to the tip. So again welcome back to the Wooroloo working party which provides a much appreciated public service to our Darlington community.

Colin Merritt

Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association (DRRA)

The 9 March meeting, made for a lively evening, with three Shire of Mundaring Councillors attending: Cr Paige McNeil, Deputy President, and two South Ward Councillors, Cr Trish Cook and Cr Luke Ellery. There was discussion around the following:

Shire Electors meeting

Cr. Luke Ellery reported that all motions presented to the Shire Electors Meeting on Wednesday March 8 had been passed. DRRA had put forward two motions:

• for a placemaking strategy to be undertaken for all Shire planning and development initiatives;

• to have a design competition for the proposed MultiPurpose Community Facility in Mundaring to ensure alignment with the ambiance and heritage of the hills.

Poul Dahl and Liz Dumont attended the Meeting to present the motions initiated by Anthony Spagnolo (DRRA Chair). Three residents’ groups voted for the removal of the Shire’s three LED noticeboards paced in Glen Forrest, Mt Helena and Mundaring.

Mundaring Cultural Precinct Plan

Cr. Ellery shared that the Mundaring Multi-purpose Community Facility consultation survey is now open. The Shire is planning to create a new civic and cultural heart, to the south of the Great Eastern Highway, between Nichol Street and Mundaring Weir Road. The new Mundaring ‘cultural precinct’ will involve co-locating existing community facilities and services, into one area. The public may respond to the survey on-line –www.engage.mundaring.wa.gov.au, until Monday 17 April 2023. Hard copies of the survey are available from the Shire’s office, libraries and Hub of the Hills. Cr Ellery advised that if grant applications for the facility are successful the overall budget for the precinct could be between $20million and $60million. Construction is expected to commence in 2025.

Development Assessment Panels (DAP)

Cr. Paige McNeill advised that the State Government has introduced reforms that limit Local Government input in development proposals over $2m, meaning developers can bypass councils and take proposals straight to Development Assessment Panels (DAP). This reform, opposed by the WA Local Government Association (WALGA), limits local government input and community engagement. Cr. McNeill emphasised the need for more community involvement in planning.

North Stoneville amended structure plan – open for comment

The Satterley North Stoneville structure plan has been revised and resubmitted. The proposal has reduced the number of lots from 1,400 to 1,001 with the provision of future sub-divisions. Cr Trish Cook shared that in 2020, the Shire of Mundaring and Save the Perth Hills previously opposed the Satterley North Stoneville structure plan, the Shire of Mundaring and Save the Perth Hills made an application to return the area to a rural designation, but the Western Australia Planning Commission indicated it cannot move on this proposal until the appeal from Satterley has been considered. The Satterley North Stoneville structure plan has opened for public comment; submissions must be submitted to the WA Department of Planning by 8 May 2023. For advice on how to compose a submission, see the Save Perth Hills web site. If you oppose the application, state this in your first sentence,

and follow up with your reasoning.

Shire’s capital works program 2023/24

Cr. Ellery reported that the Shire’s capital works have been delayed; the works on Glen Road have been pushed back to 2024/25, however the works on the footbridges of Mofflin Avenue and Glebe Road will proceed in 2023/4. DRRA has extended invitations to the Shire’s engineers to attend an upcoming DRRA Community meeting. In the interim the DRRA will collate community questions and concerns at the April meeting and will submit to the engineers for a response. Discussions about forthcoming development plans as they have serious concerns about the impact on residents/traffic flow.

DCRAG – widening of the Oval and tree planting

The DCRAG Chair, Trish Cook, was advised that greater awareness and consultation may be gained by using DRRA as the vehicle to consult on those proposals which affect the wider community, above and beyond those sporting clubs using Darlington Oval.

DASRA is spearheading the widening of the Oval project. A subcommittee of DCRAG has been formed where Geoff Barker and Ceri Kitely will liaise with the wider community for feedback. Everyone is encouraged to read the entire proposal on the Darlington.org website. As the proposal is directly aligned with what the sporting community wants inclusive consultation allows all stakeholders to provide input. An email address will be posted on the DCRAG website to provide feedback. The proposal to widen the Oval hasn’t been fully costed. Ceri Kitely confirmed that the Oval Widening project is separate from the overall drainage and resurfacing of the Oval.

DASRA

Geoff Barker reported that the Cash for Containers Recycling Noise Bin is under construction and that a prototype will be ready for demonstration very soon in the Community Garden or next to the Skate Park Shelter.

Following input from children, the Noise Bin is being constructed in Darlington.

Darlington’s ratepayers and residents are invited to speak with any of the DRRA Committee with items of concern, or to email us via drra@darlington village.org. The next DRRA meeting will take place on Thursday 13 April 2023, in the Darlington Lesser Hall, from 7:30pm prompt.

The three musketeers (from left): Graeme Gordon, Gus Skene and Kevin Norris (photo courtesy Louise Stelfox).

Louise Stelfox | Vice-Chair, DRRA

Darlington Sports and Recreation Association (DASRA)

DaSRA Inc.

Making things happen in and around Darlington

Recreation | Youth | Sport | Community Projects

Activities

A water drinking fountain is currently being finalised to be constructed at the front of the Pavilion near the Scoreboard Frame. Thank you To Tim Hunter and Motivation Foundation for assisting us pro bono on this important initiative. You may have noticed that a new gutter has been installed on the high veranda roof so that rain spillage from the top roof is eliminated from splashing onto the lower roof. The success or otherwise of this addition during the rainy

NoiseBin

As previously advised DaSRA auspices a number of projects in support of the community. The NoiseBin is one such project and it is being constructed now.

The Shire of Mundaring have approved it in principle but are yet to see drawings and a working model/prototype before they give it a formal nod. The proposed location is as shown on this aerial photograph.

The yellow dot shows the preferred location based on allowing disabled access from the Pavilion deck level and facilitating ready access from the lower recreation area. The first sketch (below) shows the overall size of the proposed NoiseBin.

period is to be monitored by the committee.

There are plans for a community event later in the year so watch this space.

Also there are only 36 bricks left for allocation on the Foundation Wall inside the Pavilion. If you haven’t got yours yet then let us know and a plaque can be arranged. Contact secretary@ darlingtonpavilion.com.au

Construction team: Graeme Gordon, Gus Skene, and Kevin Norris.

Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group (DCRAG)

The April DCRAG’s AGM was well attended. Re-elected was Cr Trish Cook as chair and Colin James Secretary. Delegates from most clubs and community groups attended and a number of topics relating to recreation and recreational projects were discussed as follows.

• Following a very successful 2022 Festival, the DAF committee are undertaking a review of festival activities.

• Junior football indicated they will be starting their preseason training soon, with oval being used most nights of the week.

• Social cricket games are continuing with gusto, and there has been an increase in playing numbers. Noted that the restoration of the “Tom Wooler” steps is still to be resolved and DCRAG will be advised by the Social Cricket Club in due course.

• DRRA indicated that the previous discussions on the Heritage trail with walkers and riders has been reignited, and on their agenda for community review again. DRRA have informed the Shire that they do not support the new Glen Forrest electronic notice board.

• The DaSRA Noise Bin project continues in developmental stage for the Shire to review on how the system works. A protype may be demonstrated at the next DCRAG meeting.

• Sporting clubs noted the poor condition of the oval and apparent concerns with reticulation system. This matter has been brought to Shire’s attention.

• The Community Garden is busy most Saturday mornings, and proposed mosaics for arbour and tree plantings are progressing.

• LAMPI Pump track sides are breaking away and Shire have been advised.

• History group numerous projects are in various stages of completion, in particular the ‘walk trail’ and interpretive signage around Darlington. It was noted that the Lesser hall is 100 years old this year and looking to ‘celebrate’ that milestone.

• DCRAG have submitted one request to SOM for its 2023/2024 Capital Item Budget Request for a shelter

between the pump track and the skatepark. DRRA’s requests also noted.

• We will also see some Shire horticulture activity in the Lower recreation area in the coming months, for plantings in the skatepark and pump track area.

• The drawings for the Darlington Club BBQ extension proposal will soon be available on the Darlingtonvillage. org.au website.

• The bollard replacement and walkway project will be reconsidered as power lines are apparently underneath nearby.

• Replacement large trees on Pine Terrace shall still go ahead (hopefully this winter). After many years of consideration and opportunity for comment, the trees that have been recommended to the Shire by DCRAG Tree Custodian after input from a wide range of knowledgeable people are Canary Pines (pinus canariensis). However, this will depend on tree availability. Further details on the DCRAG Large tree management can be found here. https://www.darlingtonvillage.org/community-groups/ darlington-community-recreation-advisory-group-dcrag/ large-tree-replacement-and-management-plan/

• The Sports Club’s proposal for oval widening and realignment will move forward with the Shire, to be considered in their Shire wide Recreation Facilities Informing Strategy in 2023/2024. The DCRAG Oval Widening Subcommittee is now reactivated to gain community input, which will be considered alongside the proposal. The proposal can be found on the DaSRA website darling https://www.darlingtonpavilion.com.au/ oval-realignment Please email your feedback to dcrag. feedback1@gmail.com

• Recently, there has been a lot of graffiti at the Skatepark and vandalism at the Pavilion toilets which have been closed for weeks now. Fortunately, the security cameras from the Fire Brigade look out over these areas. Please report to Crimestoppers if you witness illegal activity. Fixing these issues is very costly to the ratepayers.

Colin James and Trish Cook

DCRAG | Oval Subcommittee

DCRAG Oval Widening Subcommittee notes.

DCRAG Subcommittee for review of the Sports Club Proposal to widen and realign Darlington Oval:

 Ceri Kitely  Geoff Barker

 Nerissa Rickard  Stacey August

The sports club proposal is now available on:

DaSRA website:

https://www.darlingtonpavilion.com.au/oval-realignment

DCRAG community group website: https://www.darlingtonvillage.org

We welcome and encourage feedback on the proposal from the Darlington Community. The feedback needs to be based on the content of the Proposal.

Send comments and questions: email to dcrag.feedback1@ gmail.com. By letter – please put in the wooden Darlington

Review box in Darlington Post Office, and write on the envelope: for DCRAG Subcommittee

Emails and letters to include full name, address and postcode. Note that the letters will be reviewed by the DCRAG Subcommittee and will not be published in any form.

The DCRAG subcommittee will be reviewing the sports club proposal together with Community feedback and will provide monthly updates through the Darlington Review and DRRA meetings and the regular DCRAG meetings.

We request that comments and conversations entered into are kept respectful and stress that those on the DCRAG Subcommittee are all volunteers.

For those wishing to learn more about the proposal the Subcommittee will be conducting a ‘Walk the Boundary’ session on Thursday 13th April 6:30pm. Please meet at the Pavilion.

History is calling

We stand at the precipice of a transformative change in relations and justice for the original custodians of our great land – the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have been here for more than 60,000 years.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart is the product of one of the most historically significant consultation processes with First Nations peoples in our nation’s history. It calls for a Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Constitution.

The Albanese Labor Government is committed to implementing the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the referendum to enable these changes will take place later this year.

At its very essence the Voice to Parliament is about giving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians a say in the matters that affect their lives, their communities, and their future.

It is about creating practical and lasting change that will lead to better policies and improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in areas like health, education and housing.

We believe that the Australian people are ready to finally recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in our Constitution – the birth certificate of our nation.

If not now, when?

In July 2022, the Prime Minister set out a roadmap to implement the Uluru Statement from the Heart, including a possible question and amendment to the Constitution for an Aboriginal

and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.

The Prime Minister proposed that the following three sentences be included in the Constitution, in recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders as the First Peoples of Australia:

1. There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

2. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice may make representations to Parliament and the Executive Government on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

3. The Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to the composition, functions, powers and procedures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

4. Additionally, the Prime Minister proposed the following draft question to be put at the referendum:

Do you support an alteration to the Constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice? History is calling and it is up to all of us to decide how we will answer. We all now have the opportunity, and responsibility to make a lasting positive change to our Nation.

There are many ways for people to get involved with the Yes Campaign. I will be hosting information sessions and Town Hall events in the lead up to the referendum. In addition, my office can provide further information on campaign resources and other events.

Community Barbecue

As you will be aware the barbecue upgrade is a Darlington Club initiative to extend the community barbecue to cater for observed increased demand on the existing facility.

The existing shelter will remain and then be overly doubled in size in a westerly direction. It is also proposed that two new electric barbecues will be added under, and there will be stone seating added around the increased covered area. Also, timber bench and table seating are proposed under the increased shelter.

Along with existing drawings completed to community feedback, we have asked draftsman Terry Coleman offering his services also on a pro bono basis to prepare a site plan showing exactly where existing and proposed additions are planned in relation to the hall, oval and future History Club initiatives. Fees to join are $20 per person or $40 for two or family. Payee The Darlington Club Inc. BSB 633 000, Account 124527748. Reference Surname and Subs.

Sue Lavell | Club President

Darlington Club Photos

BARBEQUE SHELTER FLOOR PLAN

BARBEQUE SHELTER ELEVATIONS AND SECTION

Darlington Club Photos

Councillor's Column South Ward | Cr Luke Ellery

April brings a time of reflection: Good Friday, Easter, and ANZAC day, the month has more holidays than any other. It’s a time I am grateful for those who came before us; the service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, the volunteers who honour them today and the sacrifice of man from Nazareth who brought hope.

I’d also like to reflect on our capital works program; the parks, roads and infrastructure the Shire maintains. At the next DRRA meeting I hope to ensure shire engineers are available to discuss the works with any interested residents. Please send through any questions (e.g. what material will the bridge be reconstructed with, does the road include kerbing, etc) to crellery@mundaring.wa.gov.au and drra@darlingtonvillage. org.

Also a quick note that April/May is a restricted burning season; 1mx3m can be burnt after 6pm.

DRRA meeting to discuss Capital Projects in 2023/24 FY 7:30pm, Thursday 13th April at Darlington Hall

The capital works are summarised below:

Bridges/Paths

• Mofflin Ave footbridge

• Glebe Rd footbridge

• Extension of gravel path on Ryecroft Rd

• Scott St bridge (work is being undertaken now by Main Roads)

Parks/Reserves

• Plantings near skatepark

• Darlington Heritage walkway to recognise historical locations

• Boya Oval Changerooms renovations

• New BBQ and Shelter at Darlington Park (the Pines)

Roads

• Glen Rd reconstruction is now deferred to 2024/25

• Darlington Rd rehabilitation (Gt Eastern to Dalry Rd)

• Buildings

• Bilgoman Pool Changeroom, office and kiosk renovation

• Darlington Hall painting and floor works

• Painting of Darlington Scout hall

I welcome your input to take a proactive approach to maintaining the beauty of our village.

Darlington Bush Fire Ready Group

This 2014 REPORT has relevance to Darlington. Selected information has been taken from the “BUSHFIRE BEHAVIOUR AND HOUSE DAMAGE AND DESTRUCTION DURING THE PARKERVILLE, MT HELENA AND STONEVILLE BUSHFIRE ON THE 12 JANUARY 2014” ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION BRANCH, DFES - https://publications.dfes.wa.gov.au/publications/reporton-bushfire-behaviour-and-house-damage-and-destructionduring-the-pakerville-mt-helena-stoneville-bushfire-on-the12-january-2014

Within the area of this report a total of 48 homes were destroyed and seven homes were damaged.

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) at the time was around 160 – out of a possible total of 200, which was close to the highest it had been in the last five years and well above the five-year average. (NB The KBDI is an effective tool to indicate the availability of the heavier fuel material that applies as it is utilised across Australia by most fire agencies which facilitates comparisons of bulk fuel dryness and community impacts).

The fire ran through a range of vegetation types but mainly an overstorey of Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) and Marri (Corymbia calophylla). Fuel loads were estimated to average 15 tonne per hectare (t/ha). The fire primarily ran through developed private property and as it progressed through subdivisions, the firefighters had to manage saving lives and property as well as suppressing the fire and minimising the impact on the environment.

None of the subdivisions affected by this fire had been formally declared as being within a bushfire prone area. There appears to be a correlation between home loss and damage, and the direction of the head fire. Homes downwind and directly in line with the severest section of the head fire appear to have been the ones which suffered the most damage or destruction.

Those on the edge of the head-fire or flank do not appear to have experienced the same impact as houses directly downwind of the fire. There were also homes destroyed as a direct consequence of the ember attack onto the homes. Many of these homes were older style construction standards, certainly built prior to the current construction standards that would be applied today, if the area was declared as bushfire prone.

Could this happen in Darlington…sadly, YES, …WE ARE IN A CLASSIFIED HIGH RISK BUSHFIRE PRONE AREA, and many of our homes are old and on steep slopes.

It is important to keep up the good work of reducing the fuel load around your home. Haven’t done any yet? It’s never too late to start!

Street contacts and residents are advised our next meeting of all is on Monday, May 1st at 7.30pm in the Fire station. Everyone welcome to attend'.

Colin James | Coordinator - 0419 969 223

REMEMBER

000 is the ONLY number to ring for all fire and smoke sightings.

Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade

The ComCen will page our members who are on duty.

For general Brigade enquiries please ring 9299 7217. Station hours: Saturday 9am-10:30am.

Web: darlingtonfire.org.au • Facebook: Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade • Instagram: dvbfb_

Next meeting: Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at the Darlington Fire Station.

Saturday April 1st will see the Shire of Mundaring move to the first Restricted Burning period for 2023, but additional restrictions and conditions may be in place. The Shire may withhold the issuing of permits until further notice. Please check the Shire website, or call their information hotline on 9290 6644, to confirm the current restrictions, find out about any bans in place, obtain burning information and check for updates.

During the Restricted Burning period permits to burn must be obtained (when available) for lighting ALL fires BEFORE 6pm, for all ‘running’ fires, and for piles bigger than 1m2. Permits to burn for Darlington and surrounding suburbs will be available, when authorised, via the Shire of Mundaring website, or from the Darlington Fire Station on Saturday mornings between 9am – 10am.

rains. Please remain vigilant and continue to look out for signs of fire, and call 000 immediately. Report suspicious activity in bush areas, or around where fires start, to CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000. And if you are conducting fuel reduction burns on your property please follow all Local Government regulations, the details of your permit, and exercise the utmost caution.

“Don’t be a Fool! Change your smoke alarm battery on April 1st”. Now is the time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms, as only working smoke alarms can save lives. DFES urges householders to change smoke alarm batteries on April 1st each year, and also to test their smoke alarms regularly. So if you haven’t already, change your smoke alarm batteries today as it could save your home… and your life.

Here are some smoke alarm facts:

During any Restricted Period some small, garden refuse ONLY fires may be lit AFTER 6pm without a permit, under strict criteria, including;

• the Fire Danger Rating (FDR) is Moderate or below

• the pile of garden refuse being burnt does not exceed 1m2

• a five metre wide area, clear of flammable material, surrounds the pile

• the fire is lit only between 6pm and 11pm

• only one pile is alight at any one time

• the fire is completely extinguished by midnight (NO heat, smoke, steam, white ash

• at least one able bodied adult is in attendance, at the fire, at all times

• there is a means of extinguishing the fire available at all times (e.g. garden hose, knapsack spray or fire unit)

• neighbours are informed of your intention to burn

• the smoke does not cause a nuisance to neighbours or create a traffic hazard

The ongoing hotter temperatures and lack of rain means the continued risk of bush fire leading in to autumn. Our long, hot summer has left fuel loads very dry, and it might take quite some time for autumn and winter rains to penetrate surface fuels and soil, especially with long periods of fine weather in between

• Smoke alarms require replacement approximately every 10 years.

• It is LAW that property owners install mains powered smoke alarms BEFORE they sell or rent their property.

• Current regulations require smoke alarms to be hard wired, and interconnected.

• We encourage the use of long lasting alkaline batteries to ensure smoke alarms work properly.

• Smoke alarms require regular cleaning – check smoke alarms for a build-up of dust and cobwebs and clean with a vacuum cleaner.

“If Prometheus was worthy of the wrath of heaven for kindling the first fire upon earth, how ought all the gods honour the men who make it their professional business to put it out? ~ John Godfrey

Saxe

Ricky Harvey

Donna Faragher JP MP | Member for East Metropolitan Region

Around 300 million people around the world live with a rare disease which is often chronic, degenerative and lifethreatening. In Western Australia, there are over 200,000 members of our community with a rare disease including around 63,000 children – a number that would fill Optus Stadium.

The Parliamentary Friends of People with Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases has been established to increase

awareness and to raise the profile of these diseases and the incredible research and work being undertaken every day to support those impacted, their families and carers. I am pleased to be a Co-Convenor of this Parliamentary Friends Group with my colleagues, Hon Matt Swinbourn MLC and Hon Stephen Pratt MLC.

To mark this year’s Rare Disease Day, recognised annually on 28 February, the Group hosted a special event which focused on the lived experiences of those with a rare and undiagnosed disease and their families. We were fortunate to hear from Karen Tighe and Monique Garcia who shared their personal stories and to meet with representatives from many organisations involved in advocating for people living with rare diseases.

In other news, I was pleased to visit the Icon Cancer Centre in Midland with Senator Linda Reynolds recently. The Centre provides patients living in the East Metropolitan Region and inner Wheatbelt towns with access to comprehensive specialist cancer treatment. We were informed the Centre hosts the only linear accelerator (radiation therapy treatment machine) in the Eastern region. It also has the capacity to deliver more than 12,000 chemotherapy or haematology treatments and 18,000 radiation therapy treatments annually.

With continued population growth across the Region, the need for quality healthcare facilities is incredibly important. Thank you to the team at the Icon Cancer Centre for the care and support you provide to members of our community diagnosed with this terrible disease.

Forrest Darlings CWA

In March we held a sewing bee, coming together to make library bags. Some of these will be donated to children in need at local schools, and others will be available for sale as a fundraiser.

A library bag is a vital booklist requirement for all children entering primary school for the first time, and an important way to encourage an early love of reading which is linked to so many positive life outcomes. If you would like to contribute to this project, we welcome donations of bright childrens fabrics (cotton) or Spotlight vouchers to enable us to purchase materials.

In March we also catered for a packed lunch for a Shire of Mundaring event. If your not for profit group is looking for local catering please get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Plans are afoot for a market stall to be held at the Mundaring Garden and Farmers Market on Saturday 6 May. Please come and support our stall and this growing local market which is located adjacent to the Sculpture Park under the shade of the gum trees.

Next meeting: Wednesday, 19 April 7pm - Darlington Pavilion' For more information call Kate Herren (President) 0452 644 248.

St Cuthbert's Anglican Church | cnr Darlington and Hillsden Roads, Darlington

MAINLY MUSIC

After six hectic weeks of singing, dancing, playing and eating another term of Mainly Music has come to an end. Tuesday mornings are happy occasions in the St Cuthbert’s parish centre for the mums and toddlers and parishioners Sarah, Michelle, Nancy, Sue and our rector, Julie. We all look forward to Mainly Music resuming for term 2 on Tuesday 9 May. If you’ve often thought about coming along, make next term the time you do it!

ST CUTHBERT’S PATRONAL FESTIVAL

St Cuthbert of Lindesfarne (634 - 687) was a shepherd, a monk, a bishop and a hermit. He was also, in his youth, a soldier and, arguably, the first conservationist because of his successful efforts to protect the Eider ducks - to this day known as Cuddy ducks.

To honour St Cuthbert we heard his story at the morning Eucharist and at 7pm our organist and choir master, John Beaverstock, led the choir at a special Evensong service. And afterwards there was a champagne supper to conclude the celebrations.

EASTER SERVICES

PALM SUNDAY:  Sunday 2 April, 9.00am

On Palm Sunday, our 9.00am service will be a Holy Eucharist and Passion Journey. HOLY WEEK AND EASTER

Monday-Wednesday: 3,4,5 April, 7:30pm Said Eucharist

Maundy Thursday: Thursday 6 April, 7.30pm;   Eucharist and Footwashing

Good Friday: Friday 7 April, 9.00am;   Liturgy of the Cross

Easter Eve: Saturday 8 April, 7.00pm;  The Great Vigil of Easter, followed by celebratory supper

Easter Day: Sunday 9 April, 9.00am;  Eucharist

Rector: The Rev’d Julie Baker | T: 0459 471 894 | E: rector@hillsanglicans.com

Parish Office: 6292 0074

Email: info@hillsanglicans.com

Mail: PO Box 77 Darlington, WA 6070 Australia

Services: 9am Sunday

Find us on Facebook at Hills Anglicans | Website: www.hillsanglicans.com

Whilst March was a quieter time for the Baha’i community as we undertook our annual 19 days of fasting and reflection, we are now full of spiritual and physical energy for the new year ahead. In the Baha’i calendar our new year (known as Naw Ruz) actually commences on 21st March. This coincides with the vernal equinox, the day when the sun shines equally in all parts of the world. To Baha’is this symbolises the light of the new divine revelation that shines upon the entirety of humanity.

We joyfully welcome two new additions to our children’s class! New siblings have recently been born and we’re so excited to have them join our community. We send our love and congratulations to the Kiani and Mkandawire families. Our relaxed play-focused family sessions are held in Darlington on Sunday mornings.

The Darlington Junior Youth group are now in their third year of the Spiritual Empowerment program and have just completed

Mundaring

the latest book in the curriculum, ‘Habits of an Orderly Mind’. Their discussions on the topics of prioritising, time management and positive habits are assisting them in reflecting on how to strive for excellence in their studies and extra-curricular activities and to work towards their goals.

Before diving in to their next book the group, assisted by their peer-mentors, are planning their latest service activity which will involve fundraising for a local cause. Look out for our enthusiastic boys at the Pines on Friday evenings soon and please support their efforts to assist our neighbourhood!

Save the date: Our next interfaith gathering will be held on Sunday 14 May, 4:00pm-6:00pm at St Cuthbert’s. Enjoy prayers and meditations from world religions and uplifting conversations with new friends. All welcome. More details on our Facebook page and website.

p g g y , g looking at 2000 words on my screen that were refusing to be condensed into a word count of only 800. I asked God if I had entirely misunderstood what I had thought I had been lead to write and in the quiet of waiting and asking I felt lead to start all over again

You see it’s Easter, and if there was ever a time that some of you may read an article about God it may just be at Easter and possibly only because it is Easter. So I found myself wanting to share of the grandeur and goodness and majesty of God specifically to those of you who have not known of His beauty and His preciousness and have not had the opportunity to marvel at His ways I wanted to share with you of His perfect love and His power and His holiness and His joy and His delight and His Fathering and His friendship and His salvation and His Lordship and His Kingship and His safeness and His suffering and His grief and His anger and His kindness and His tenderness and His mercy and His justice and His provision and His counsel and His comfort and His grace and His gifts and His forgiveness and His compassion and His wisdom and His faithfulness and His peace and His patience and His kingdom and His leading…. and there is even more than this but alas I am still bound by a word count !

I guess I just wanted to share so

GOT QUESTIONS?

Are Christians comfortable with the way God chose to populate the earth?

After God created Adam and Eve he asked them to populate the earth. When He gave them this mandate there was only perfect relationship between man, woman and God. In the beginning there was nothing unhealthy or unsavoury about populating the earth with adult people who may have been siblings, and then with time, cousins, and then distant

WHAT'S ON:

p y y enough space to tell you everything that is exciting and wonderful about Him and I want you all to know so, so, sooooo much!! :-)

Because it is Easter, I wanted you to know that the agonies that Christ endured at the cross pleased God It pleased God to crush His Son. Why? Not because He is a malevolent dictator but because He was equipped to offer up Hi mself for our sakes, for your sake, because Jesus Christ is the only One who could endure the judgement of God and enter into the fullness of death and have victory over it It pleased God because in perfect love there is justice, mercy and sacrifice and at the cross He was able to perfectly enact all three on our behalf for us It pleased God because where Adam lost His life while on this earth, Jesus Chri st came to this earth, became a man, fulfilled all the laws of God and in doing so retained life and is able to offer us what Adam had lost It pleased God because just as one man’s sin, Adam’s, was enough to bring death to all mankind, One man’s holiness, Jesus’, was able to make the gift of grace, righteousness and life available to all mankind for those who choose to accept it.

I wanted you to know that God has quite literally moved heaven and earth to save you, redeem you and restore you to life so that you can enter into perfect and right relationship with Him if you choose

cousins and so on.

In the beginning Adam and Eve had perfect cell replication. Science shows us that if we could improve cell replication we would live longer lives. God knew that a time was coming when cell replication would be hindered and life spans would be shortened. It is a viable reason why He eventually created a law of no longer entering into marriage with siblings. A law to protect the longevity of the human race therefore making marriage to siblings immoral.

It is right to feel uncomfortable

already aying pleasure in the death of one who dies, therefore turn and live!” I wanted you to know that Adam died while still residing on this earth because he lost the life that God had given Him for this world as well as the next. I wanted you to know that Christ is the One and the only One who can restore to us the life that Adam had with God in Eden before Adam chose his own ways above God's.

I wanted you to know that God is able to do for you that which is impossible for you to do for yourself – redeem you from death into life. I guess the most important thing that I really wanted to say is that my greatest hope for you is that you trust and have faith that what God says He has done is what He has done and you will come to see Him for who He is and you will love Him just as much as He already loves and has loved you and you receive from Him what He is waiting to give to you – New

in our present day. As there came a time when God needed to protect the genetic inheritance we have to offer the generations ahead of us, so when He wrote the laws of who can marry, our conscience has responded to it since. Your discomfort in regards to it exists because your conscience is active towards the heart and mind of God - it is your own testimony to proclaim that the laws of God are good!

HELENA COLLEGE

THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF RESILIENCE

Resilience is a word that we hear quite often in the realm of parenting and schooling, but what does it mean? In a broad sense, resilience is the ability for our young people to bounce back from adversity. It is a child’s willingness to leave their comfort zones, seek new experiences and take safe and reasonable risks.

Helena College believes that building resilience is something that schools need to work on in partnership with families. From the lessons of winning and losing, how to manage their emotions, making mistakes and navigating friendships. Resilience is just one of the areas that the Helena College social-emotional learning program looks at. Designed by our Junior School College Psychologist, Veronica Smith, we aim to work closely with parents to bring out the best in all our students. She has shared some simple ideas that we as parents and educators can use to assist children in building their resilience.

APPLY NOW FOR YEARS 4 AND 5

Helena College is inviting expressions of interest for Junior School enrolments for Year 4 and 5 in 2024 and beyond. Applications for other entry points are welcomed.

For more information, or to book a tour, please our website.

www.helena.wa.edu.au

Let them make mistakes Mistakes are our opportunities for learning. It is hard to watch children take a leap and land on their faces. However, in terms of resilience, it is so valuable for them to learn that they can reach for something and fall and while it feels awful, they will be able to get through it. Saying the words to them is valuable but it cannot top the learning that is gained through experience.

Don’t fight their battles for them. This is the process of picking your battles. There are some situations where we as parents might need to step in and assist because it is beyond the capacity for a small person. However, there are others where we need to trust our children and their ability to manage. Our role is much more useful as a support role. Give your kids the tools to manage a situation by themselves. Let them try their wings and see what happens.

Encourage children to talk about things that are bothering them. One of the easiest ways to do this is to work it into their routine. If your kids are anything like mine, the minute you sit down and say “Let’s have a chat” the walls go up, the shutters come down and the words stop. Much better to get in the habit of talking as a general part of their day so that they are used to communicating with you. Car rides or cuddles before bed are great times to introduce the art of talking. If you are talking about worries, particularly with those kids who tend to bottle up their feelings, ask them if they feel lighter or heavier than they did before they started talking about the worries. With enough repetitions, they will make the link that when they talk about their worries, they feel better.

Explore negative thinking and re-frame their experiences. Check out how your child is making sense of themselves, others and the world. Often negative thinking makes statements that are universal in response to a situation that is time limited. For example, the situation may be that a child does poorly on one test and the rest of their results have been fine. The negative statement might be ‘I am stupid’ and this statement is applied to every academic situation. You might be able to correct the child by pointing out that this is one test and that while they didn’t do as well as they may have liked, they are not stupid. Using evidence is our best weapon against negative thinking. Asking a gentle question ‘What is the evidence to support that thought?’ ‘What is the evidence that does not support that thought’ and assist them to find a balanced perspective. Encourage them to take responsibility. Regardless of the situation, in any interaction or scenario there is a bit that we need to own and a bit that others need to own. When something goes wrong in your child’s world, get them into the habit of reflecting upon the situation. What were the bits in their control? What were the bits outside of their control? What are the bits that they need to own and fix. We can’t control the thoughts, feelings and actions of others but we can control our own actions or responses.

If you would like to know more about Helena College’s social-emotional learning program, we invite you to come along on one of our campus tours. Find out more at www.helena.wa.edu.au.

Silver Tree Steiner School

Circus Skills is certainly a highlight of our incredible Games program here at Silver Tree and one of the most cherished activities of the year.

This year has been no exception and our Class 4, 5, and 6 children have once again had a wonderful programme with Joe Bolton from Suitcase Circus.

Joe’s skillful circus demonstrations are always mesmerising and the children have been thrilled to learn a whole array of circus

tricks and apparatus. Our audience of parents and family was wowed with acrobatics, plate spinning, unicycle riding, juggling, and much more.

Circus skills build the children’s perseverance, willpower, creativity, and patience whilst combining the elements of the Physical Education and Drama curriculum.

Even our therapy dog Jack is happy to be part of the performance!

The sun was shining for the annual Medieval Fayre held at Perth Waldorf School in Bibra Lake. The Parkerville Steiner College students were resplendent in various shades of crushed velvet, whether wearing long medieval dresses, faux armour or capes.  The stories, songs and artworks with which we convey the flavour of the Middle Ages to the children in class are truly wonderful but surely nothing compares to actually donning fifteen kilograms of chain mail and trying to swing a sword while holding a shield with the other hand!

The children moved in groups from activity to activity: fire lighting, crossbow target practice, spear throwing, chain mail making to name but a few.  Our wonderful instructors took the time to explain so many lesserknown facts about the Middle Ages, such as the move from long bow to crossbow, given the time and effort it took to firstly train an archer to use the longbow, and then in the loading of the weapon. How fascinating to hear what constituted advances in technology so long ago!

The children enjoyed a hearty morning tea and then became spectators to the Grey Company’s battle re-enactment.  The audience enthusiastically cheered for their favourite warrior, whether peasant (who back at that time could have purchased a farm with armour from a slain foe), Viking or knight.  Perhaps next year we will match their bravery and step forward as minstrels to provide some entertainment for the gathered crowd.

It was fantastic to see the children from Parkerville Steiner College and Perth Waldorf School interacting so beautifully and families enjoying this special day together.

I

Treetops | A Montessori and International Bacalaureate School

Maria Montessori’s Great Lessons

Maria Montessori emphasised that all children are naturally inquisitive and keen learners, and therefore natural scientists. Our Year 1/2 students began the year confirming that they are scientists who use their senses to explore the world around them. This was further consolidated with an incursion from the Australian Earth Science Education unit. Students were introduced to a small white bead which suddenly and unexpectedly turned purple when taken outside. Students were then led through the scientific process to determine what had prompted the bead to change from white to purple. Was it heat? Wind? Light? Students re-examined the bead with their own senses, then wore special glasses which split the white light into rainbows, and finally used a special UV light to determine that it was UV light which had changed the bead from white to purple.

Maria Montessori’s First Great Lesson opens students’ minds to question and research the beginning of time, the universe, and the creation of Earth itself. Students engage in activities considering if there is anything colder than ice. Are some liquids heavier than others? What happens when simple chemicals combine?

Maria Montessori also emphasised that children gain a better understanding of the passing of time when learning is spread out in a line. Students engage in many activities to support this learning, including Maria Montessori’s Great Lessons which are part of her Cosmic Education.

Maria Montessori’s Second Great Story is based on the coming of life. The Prehistoric Felt Timeline enables students to gain an understanding of the time taken for life to evolve and develop. The black section is a time when no life existed, grey is the beginning and time of very simple life, yellow is the explosion of life in the oceans. The oceans became overcrowded and full of oxygen, so a fish developed two air sacs and pulled itself out onto land. The first amphibian had developed. The orange section is the Mesozoic Era, the age of the giant reptiles known as dinosaurs. Some of the smaller reptiles began to fly, these were the first birds. The green section is the age of mammals, and the tiny red section at the end of the timeline is the time of humans!

The Felt Prehistoric Timeline is then followed by Maria Montessori’s Timeline of Life. Students study the timeline to see how plants and animals evolved, developed, changed, were affected by ice ages, and further evolved.

Natalie

Boyd-Ratcliff Wattle (Year 1 and 2) Teacher

Mundaring and Hills Historical Society

Mundaring War Memorial

The Secretary of the Returned Soldiers, Sailors and Nurses Association, Darling Range Branch, Sawyer’s Valley, wrote to the Greenmount Roads Board on January 14th 1921 asking about the progress of fundraising to erect a Fallen Soldiers Memorial. They were told that the matter was in hand and that they had £11.6.6 ($22.65) in hand.

By July 1st 1921, the movement to arrange a memorial for the fallen soldiers in the District was progressing and the subscribers

were ready to meet to decide the eventual design and site of the memorial. By October 14th the Darling Range Branch of the R.S.L offered to assist with funding of the memorial by arranging a series of dances throughout the district. By December 1922, £85.9.5 ($170.95) had been raised and the memorial made from local granite was unveiled on Sunday May 6th by former Australian Imperial Forces Chaplain General Archbishop Riley.

In 1995 Mundaring and Hills Historical Society planted two Peace Roses at the Mundaring War Memorial as permanent floral tribute.

There are many War Memorials in the State and as part of the Anzac Centenary in 2015, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs developed an ‘App’ called “Remembering Them”. This ensured that information to the public was up to date. The “Remembering Them” will provide the education, veteran, and wider communities with a comprehensive list of commemorative sites in Australia by combining state-based and other existing registers into an easy-to-use platform.

Each year on Anzac Day a dawn service is held at the Blackboy Hill Memorial Site, a mid-morning service is held at the Chidlow War Memorial and the Mundaring War Memorial’s service is held

Guest Speaker Evening April

Wednesday 12 April 7.30pm at Darlington Lesser Hall - gold coin donation appreciated

Val Shiell and Laurens West “The Significance of the Light Horse Statue”

Darlington History Group

February Guest Speaker Maureen De La Harpe

An interested audience enjoyed the recent Guest Speaker Evening held in February. Maureen de la Harpe, with assistance from daughter Lara, introduced the audience to Maureen’s latest book “Dinner at the Cathay”, a memoir of Maureen’s family’s links to Shanghai before, during, and after WW11. Maureen described with delight the many surprises she and Lara encountered on their journey to discover her family’s history in the city in which Maureen was born. DHG thank Maureen and Lara (pictured here with DHG Chair Val Shiell) for their very fascinating presentation.

"Back in the Day"

As mentioned in past editions, the Darlington Hall is turning 100 this August. Iconic community elder Sally Herzfeld sent us an email with her recollections of the many ways the hall was used in the 1940s and 1950s.

DHG Chair Val Shiell will be joined by Laurens West, ADF Veteran Army representative to share the history and significance of the Stirling Square Memorial Gardens, and the significance of the newly unveiled commemorative statue. The statue commemorates the men and horses of the Tenth Australian Light Horse Regiment and the special bond they shared. It is located in Historic Guildford, "The Home of the Mighty Tenth” as a result of a community directed project. Designed and completed by Artists Charles Robb and Sarah Holland-Batt of Queensland University of Technology's School of Creative Practice, the project was funded by grants from the City of Swan, State and Federal Government (DVA) and private donations. It was unveiled on the 12th of March 2023. This talk provides an interesting prelude to the forthcoming Anzac Day celebrations held each year in most precincts of the Mundaring Shire. Please join us!

Light refreshments will be served after the talk. You don’t have to register to attend the talk – you can just turn up, but registering assists us with catering numbers. Register your interest in attending this talk by emailing publicity@dhg.org.au OR phone Val Shiell 9299 6868.

Bric-a-Brac Fundraising

Each year we collect Bric-a-Brac for fundraising for our various projects we undertake. Our biggest fundraising event is our popular and very successful White Elephant Stall at the Darlington Arts Festival, but we also need Bric-a-Brac for other fundraising events during the year.

If you are downsizing or spring cleaning, please consider donating your things to DHG. We are presently collecting:

• Adults and Childrens Fiction and Non Fiction books

• Bric-a-Brac – anything and everything!

Unfortunately we cannot accept electrical goods.

Please call Christine 0490 793 015 to arrange collection of your kind donations.

“Freemasons Lodge met there before they had their hall, Girl Guides, Badminton, we first learnt the Maypole in the hall and we’re still doing it at DAF, Anzac Day Services, Movie nights in winter before we had the outdoor theatre... these were during war time, because I had a nightmare about the Japs being up at Fischers...because we had war news before the cartoons. Suppers etc were prepared and often served from the little galvanised shed with a copper in it and a wood stove. Water for tea and coffee was boiled in that copper. The outdoor toilets were the old pan system that was emptied each week. My dad planted that large white gum about where the men’s was.”

If you have any memories you would like to share about the Darlington Hall. Send them to us! publicity@dhg.org.au. And if you would like to be involved in the planning and preparations for the Centenary Celebrations contact Val 9299 6868.

Books! Books! Books!

We have a great collection of books of historical significance for sale on our website dhg.org.au. Carefully researched, collated, and written these books provide a wonderful insight into life in Darlington when everyone lived at a slower pace. If you would like to know more about your historic house or a particular building in Darlington, check out Historic Structures and Buildings of Darlington 1929-1925. Maybe your house is in there!

Share The Heritage: Become a Member for Just $5!

Become a member of a group that is dedicated to researching, investigating, and preserving the history and heritage of Darlington. You will receive a quarterly newsletter keeping you in the loop about coming events and ongoing projects. For details on how you can become a member please contact Val Shiell admin@dhg.org.au or phone 9299 6868.

Join Us For Just $5 A Year!

The magnificent commemorative Statue in Stirling Square. Image courtesy Laurens West, ADF Veteran Army, 10LHR Rep SGLHC member.

Glen Forrest Bridge Club (GFBC)

Bridge: The most popular card game of all time!

Paul Marston in the preface to his book Introduction to Bridge says: “There are many good reasons to learn bridge. First and foremost, it is a fun game to play. It doesn’t matter about your age or gender. This is why it is the most popular card game of all time.

The challenge of bridge is to communicate with your partner and to solve problems. This makes good exercise for the mind. It is widely known these days that the brain benefits from exercise just as much as the rest of the body.

While you can enjoy bridge at many different levels- it can be anything from a fun recreation to a highly competitive sport – you are always engaged with other people. So you will find

that simply being a part of the game will broaden your circle of friends.

Another good thing about bridge is that it is an easy game to learn. It may be hard to master but it is not hard to learn. It is not about memory – it is more about getting a feel for the game.”

There are also many good reasons to come join the members at the Glen Forrest Bridge club. First, we are a friendly and supportive club. This is important, because many people new to bridge may feel intimidated at the prospect of being a beginner in the game.

Membership fees at Glen Forrest Bridge Club are very modest, $40 per annum. Astoundingly this also includes membership of the Sports club where you can play bowls, darts, pool and have drinks or light refreshments at the bar. Session fees are also very modest at $3 for the supported/social sessions and $6 ordinary sessions. The open fire in the club rooms, in the winter is a sight to behold.

The truth is many people play bridge just for fun. Come and give it a go at Glen Forrest, learn, refresh your skills, or just play. We look forward to meeting you.

Sessions Wednesday 9.30am-11.30am, Wednesday afternoon, Monday afternoon.

Telephone Bev 0437 817 359 or Fred 0417 913 468 if you would like more information.

Rotary Club of Midland Swan Valley (Swan Rotary)

What do Swan Rotarians do at their regular Club meeting?

We meet from 6.15pm for 6.45pm start giving members time to catch up before starting the meeting with a welcome from the President; introduction of guests and a report on happenings from Rotary District 9455 and an update on board decisions and other Rotary news. Then onto ordering our evening meal.

Reports from Directors on projects and Club activities; questions from members then confirmation of members to work on projects such as Bassendean Markets or sausage sizzles.

Meals are enjoyed before we hear from our guest speaker.

We recently had a presentation from James Buchanan, President of the Midland Cycling Club, who enthusiastically spoke about the history of the Club, the strategic placement of the cycling velodrome in Midvale and how many younger people are taking up cycling as an individual sport. Children as young as four join the club to develop road skills before going on the road. The Club has produced many cyclists who have gone onto professional careers in this sport. Recent ones include Ben O’Connor who in 2021 won a stage of the Tour de France, Matthew Richardson who is both an Olympic and Commonwealth champion and Jessica Allen, who rides professionally with Team Bike Exchange in Europe. In 2022 a team from Midland Cycle Club competed in Adelaide and they plan to do the same this year. Because this is an expensive sport with limited sponsorship at this level, they plan to raise some funds to add to parents’ contributions. This means that some children, who may otherwise not afford it, can get the opportunity to

compete. James then introduced 15 year old Ryan and 16 year old Callum and asked them a series of questions including how many km’s they ride each week (around 650), how many days do they ride (6) and the important question regarding nutrition after a big ride (apparently chocolate is good!).

The presentation covered many more aspects of the Midland Cycling Club and was most interesting. Swan Rotary subsequently made a donation to the Club to assist with the Fundraising.

The President closes the meeting and wishes all a safe trip home.

Swan Rotary - come and make a difference with us! Contact: Betty Pitcher. Mobile: 0408 912 101.

Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers' Centre

Australian Heritage Festival – Katharine’s Story

Sunday 30 April 2023, 12.00-4.00pm

Discover the fascinating life and works of Katharine Susannah Prichard, the first Australian novelist to gain international recognition with her 1915 novel, The Pioneers. View the rarely seen objects from the Centre’s heritage collection and listen to a reading by Dr Nathan Hobby from his book The Red Witch: A Biography of Katharine Susannah Prichard.

Writing Workshop: So You Want to Build your Author Platform

Saturday 22 April 2023, 1.00-4.00pm

Learn how to define your author brand, choose a social media platform that works for

you, build an author website and create a writing community for yourself in this hands-on workshop. This workshop is run by Jess Gately, a Perth-based editor specialising in science fiction and fantasy. She holds a Master of Arts in Professional Writing and Publishing from Curtin University and is the President of Editors WA.

Writing Workshop: So You Want to Fuel Your Creative Practice

Saturday 29 April 2023, 1.00-4.00pm

Bring your major writing project idea along to this workshop on curiosity, in which Julienne van Loon will help you to articulate your project as a series of questions, and to draw energy from those questions in manner that genuinely motivates. This workshop is run by Julienne van Loon one of Australia’s most experienced and highly sought-after creative writing teachers. Previously the director of the Creative Writing program at Curtin University and currently an Associate Professor in Writing at RMIT.

For more information on our residencies, competitions or other activities please visit the KSP website www.kspwriterscentre.com or phone the office on 08 9294 1872. KSP Writers’ Centre is proudly sponsored by the Shire of Mundaring.

Kalamunda Bridge Club

It has been a busy start to the year for our bridge club. We began with a special Australia Day celebration. Lamb on the BBQ and Lamingtons followed by afternoon bridge. It was very well attended with lots of raffles to be won and a fun day for everyone! Then in early February we had the first of our popular Mix n Match days for the year. Ten tables of people, another BBQ and a lot of good bridge played.

Our competitions have started and the first one was the Daytime Pairs for those people with under 300 master points.

The winners were Alan Puckey and Gudrun Kemmer. Second place went to Joscelyn Charters and Jenny Tedeschi.

The Mixed Pairs which is an open field was won by Tom and Kit Lemann with Stephen Thyer and Carmen Jackson in second place followed by Joe Louis and Wendy Harman.

On the weekend of the 11th and 12th of March we held our first

What’s on at the Hub of the Hills in April

Congress in three years. It was very exciting to have many players from other clubs come and play in the competition. All went very well thanks to many club members donating food for the hungry players and also their time to do the myriad of jobs required to run a successful tournament.

Best Kalamunda team on the Sunday tournament went to the Tedeschi team which included Jocelyn Charters and Sandra Hoffman, Peter Clarke and Jenny Tedeschi.

February also saw the start of a new beginners group being taught by Fiske Warren. We have 16 keen people half way through the course. The next beginners classes will be run in September. Anybody interested can contact the club for more information.

We have also added another day to our playing days. Thursday afternoons are open to anyone who would like to play bridge and have under 50 master points. You do not need to be a member or have a partner to join in. Starting time is 12.30pm.

Summer Delight - Light Lunch | 18 April | 11.30am | $2

Directly after the Coffee Morning join us for either quiche and salad or sausage rolls and salad.

Gadgets & Gizmos | Tuesdays | 9.30am to 11.30am | Free Get help using electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops.

Weekly Coffee Morning | Tuesdays | 9.30am

Come and enjoy catching up with friends or meeting new friends. Free tea and coffee, home made morning tea for only $2. All welcome.

The Active Ageing Network is looking for volunteers for the weekly Coffee Morning roster. Please call Rachael on 9290 6683 if interested.

The Hub of the Hills, 8 Craig Street, Mundaring 9290 6683 cso4@mundaring.wa.gov.au | Officer present on:

Tom and Kit Lemann.

Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides

Fun, Friendship and Adventure!

This month the Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides held a car wash for charity. The girls had a great time washing a steady stream of cars that arrived, a little bit of work and some soapy sponge fun in between… We raised $120 for Radio Lollypop.

Each year Girl Guides and Scouts worldwide celebrate World Thinking Day with this year’s theme being the Environment and Peace. The guides reflected on harmony within the natural world by understanding the importance of the interrelationships between animals and their environment. The girls became animals and the sun in an Ecosystem game. We then made our own zen gardens.

Girl Guides like to be prepared for anything that comes their way. This month the girls have been working on the Be Prepared badge. The girls extended their knowledge of first aid by participating in different emergency scenarios. They also prepared fire emergency plans for home, practised some wreath knot tying and put together a small first aid kit.

We welcome new girls aged from 7-12 years. We meet at Kathleen Skipsey Hall – on Glen Road, Darlington on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7.30pm during the school term. If you have any queries regarding Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides please contact Karen on 0403233907 or enquire at Girl Guides WA.

One Camp

Although all Scout groups organise their own local activities, they also have the opportunity to join in with others from around the state for really, really big activities! At One Camp there will be attendees from six year old Joeys through to 18 year old Venturers, plus hundreds of leaders, and parent helper volunteers assisting.

Want to know more? Everyone is welcome at the Scouts WA Open Day on Tuesday 18 April at the Swan Valley Adventure Centre, Middle Swan.

Whether you're a Scouts WA member, a young person looking for a fun day of action and adventure in the holidays, or someone who likes to 'have a go' and is interested in finding out what Scouting has to offer, you can join us at the exciting One Program open day as part of the largest WA Scouting event.

To book got to: www.Trybooking.com – search Scouts WA

1st Darlington Scouts

Joey Scouts

ages 5-8

Cub Scouts

ages 8-11 Scouts

ages 11-14

Venturer Scouts

ages 14-18

Rover Scouts

ages 18-25

Adult Volunteers

ages 18+

The past month in our Darlington group:

Joeys

Participated in Clean up Australia Day around the scout hall and surrounds, contributing to community and learning about the environment.

Scouts

Our Scouts are training and getting ready to prepare for the Swantiki rafting event, learning some valuable new skills with a Knotting night, swimming and water skills at Bilgoman, and kayaking training at Beatty Park.

Venturers

Out in the community: our Venturers crew assist with set up and pack down of the monthly Mundaring Rotary Markets, and last month several also assisted with the setting up for the Bendigo Bank Mundaring’s 21 birthday celebrations.

Darlington Venturers also have their own Instagram page, so if you are over 14, and interested if what we do, please look them up: @darlingtonventurers

Darlington Scouts are open to boys and girls, comprising four sections:

 Joey Scouts (age 5-8)  Cub Scouts (age 8-11)

 Scouts (age 11-14)  Venturer Scouts (Age 14-18).

For information contact membership@darlingtonscouts.com or www.darlingtonscouts.com or the Darlington Scout Group Facebook page

Darlington Junior Football Club

Registrations are now open for the 2023 Footy Season please use the QR code or visit www.playhq.com to register your child.

Footy is a great way for kids to meet new friends, develop fundamental sporting skills and learn to work as part of a team. Pre-primary are looking for a coach and the club is looking for an Auskick Coordinator these roles are fully supported by the Club and are necessary for the Auskick to proceed this season. If

you are interested or know someone who is able to fulfil one or both of these roles please get in touch.

We'd also like to welcome back our existing coaches, parents, managers and players. We know you are all looking forward to early morning egg and bacon rolls, set up and goal ump duties and the unique comradery that comes with being part of this club. Dust off those footy boots and dig out the mouthguards it should be a cracker!

Darlington Social Cricket Club

Season turns for home

At DSCC we’re still trying to catch our breath after an incredible start to 2023, which has seen some huge highlights, both on and off the field.

Longest Long Table steak night yet

On 25th February, 90 members of all ages turned out for our annual steak and red wine long table dinner. This represented the highest attendance in the event’s three-year history. It marked a fitting end to a great day which saw Captain Matt’s XI comfortably see off Vice Captain Nigel and his crew, before a presentation by Glenn Farrant on our forthcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

Pink Stumps Day returns with a bang

The 2023 edition of Pink Stumps Day went off in style. With the ginger imposter Ed Sheeran threatening our attendance levels, the indefatigable Chris Cork and her team of helpers put on the most beautiful afternoon tea, a raffle and some delicious drinks, which brought out the DSCC members (even the Sheerios) out in droves.

To support fundraising efforts, Craig Van der Laan chipped in with a cap signed by Glenn McGrath, which attracted some generous bids before going home with one of the opposition players. Most importantly, the club raised $1,064 for the McGrath Foundation. A massive thank you to Chris and all involved. Anyone interested in playing some social cricket, meeting new families and enjoying some of our great social events please drop us an email at dsccdarlington@gmail.com

DSCC creatures take over Molloy Park

In early, 60+ members of all ages, shapes and sizes once again took over Molloy Caravan Park in Augusta for a stupendous family camping weekend. The sun was shining, the fish were

biting, the go-karts were going faster than ever (allegedly) and the lamb at the Glenarty Road winery was the best yet. The daily breakfasts, supplied by James and Jill Miller, were again magnificent. Most importantly perhaps, after many late nights of torture, Dan Ryan and Lyndal Ebert’s vintage caravan completed its long-anticipated maiden voyage in one piece.

As usual, the Supreme Leader Stephen Jones’ Sunday afternoon Madagascarthemed games were a highlight for most and an eye opener for the uninitiated. Particularly impressive was the sight of 50-odd jungle animals, some more scantily clad than others, parading around the campsite before digging furiously for lollies.

and a couple of

Chris Cork and the Pink Stumps Day crew.

(Far left): Zoo keeper

'creatures' at Molloy Park. (Left): Ryan family on point with the Madagascar theme

Longest long table steak night yet.

Friends of Darlington Station Reserve (FODS)

Frivolity aside, Easter traditionally marks the start of the ‘working season' for our Friends group at the Station Reserve. We will begin our fortnightly Sunday morning working meetings on 16th April from 8am to 10am and look forward to another Winter/Spring season of planting, raking, weeding and, sadly, removing dead plants.

The summer has been surprisingly harsh on plants on the reserve despite the absence of any really hot weather and so likely due to increasing low soil moisture levels. If you would like to join our group or learn more about us, just come along; we break for morning tea at the picnic table at the East end of the station platform at 10 am.

As we feel the change in the season, we are again asking the Shire of Mundaring to send the maintenance team to fill and level the few holes that have developed in the gravel parking area at the Glen Road end. This area is now increasingly heavily used by many groups and a small amount of filling and grading now would stop these from developing into large muddy puddles during winter. 'A stitch in time saves nine’.

With no flowers to distract us currently we can enjoy the trees and other larger plants in our bush.

Beautiful Marri blossom catches our eye if we look up in late summer. The huge new green honey nuts won’t be far behind. Although not found on the reserve, these amazing three metre tall Kingias, a type of grass tree, can be seen on bush walks, for example up towards the Darlington Estate Winery. I hope to see you sometime on the reserve.

Diane

Left: Flowering Marri and (right) magnificent Kingias.

Darlington Community Garden (DCG)

When you were a kid do you remember a big old fruit or nut tree in your yard or somewhere in the neighbourhood... that was great for climbing into and just sitting? And daydreaming? And eating? We had an almond tree and my uncle and auntie had a huge mulberry tree. Ah the memories...

Imagine future generations of Darlington kids enjoying such fun and joy right in the centre of our village playing and delighting in DCG fruit and nut trees... or maybe families and friends sitting under their shade and beauty at a long-table function, with fruit ‘dripping down’ around them...

You can be a part of this dreaming by sponsoring a tree. DCG is excited to launch a TRIBUTE TREES program to support the planting of memorial fruit & nut trees.

Individuals, families, community groups and businesses are invited to sponsor a tree to be planted in this space.

Your tree could be dedicated in memory of a loved one or planted to recognise community service or an occasion for example. Plaques will be produced with details of the tree's sponsor and a short dedication. The trees will become a living

legacy for future generations, providing food, beauty, shelter and fun for our community to enjoy.

Trees are selected from a specific list and purchased and planted by the DCG Horticultural Team. The cost to sponsor a tree is a one-off fee of approx $250 which is still being finalised. Sponsors are encouraged to become a member of DCG ($20pa) to support the ongoing care of their tree and are welcome to join in the planting process which will begin in late April, as well as nurturing their tree through the Summer months with additional watering if able. Details will follow in the coming months with photos of trees coming to site, holes being dug, trees being planted and plaques created. Apply at www. darlingtoncommunitygarden.org.au

Wednesday 19th April 10am - 12pm. KIDS NATURE PLAY DAY. Crafts, nature play and more. $10/family or $20 to join DCG for a year to access all kids’ nature play events. Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/darlingtoncommunity-garden-kids-club-easter-nature-play-day

You’ve asked! We have listened. Announcing Tah Dahhhhh!

Enjoy dinner from the FOOD VANS or bring a picnic

WHERE: Darlington Pavilion and Oval

BUSH DANCE with PIONEERS BUSH BAND

ALL Dances taught on the night and easy to learn ENQUIRIES & TICKETS: call Shelton 0452 541 069 also via https://events.humanitix.com/darlington-community-gardenbush-dance?_ga=2.49133030.1394386957.16792114792102592643.1679211479 or scan the QR code

(NOTE: Drop-off for plastic lids and bread tags for recycling at The Waste Station)

WHEN: Saturday 22nd April 5.30-9pm

Members FREE

Non-Members $15 Single, $30 Family of 4. Kids welcome. Under 5 FREE

Shire of Mundaring Library Service

Did You Know About Library Book Club Kits?

Did you know that we have Book Club kits available for book clubs which are registered with Shire of Mundaring Libraries? There are currently 138 titles on offer.

If you belong to a book club that is not yet a member, your club is welcome to join!

It costs just $140 per book club to register with our libraries which gives access to 12 titles per year. It is very cost effectivejust $14 per person for the whole year if you have ten members in your club! The kits consist of 10 books and 10 sets of notes all contained in a handy, zipped carry bag.

You can search the complete list in the library catalogue at https:// bit.ly/mlibcat or download the list at https://bit.ly/bklist23.

April Events

Ink and Embroidery with Em Vitetta

Boya Community Centre

Monday 3 April, 10.30am to 12.30pm

Learn how to transfer your own pattern onto fabric, make it pop with some colourful ink and applique and complete your design with embroidery. Places are limited Embroidery hoops and fabric will be supplied. Please bring a simple A5 design you would like to embroider. Bookings are essential at https://030423b.eventbrite.com.au.

Outback Teacher Author Talk with Sally Herzfeld

Boya Community Centre, Monday 24 April, 10.30am

Magazines Now Available on BorrowBox

You can now borrow a great range of must-have Australian and international magazine publications on the BorrowBox app. These free digital resources are available simultaneously - so, no waiting and no holds! To access Borrowbox:

• Ensure you have a valid library membership

• Download the BorrowBox app for your iOS or Android device

• Choose your library service

• Activate with your library membership

• Borrow free eMagazines, eAudiobooks and eBooks.

If you need assistance, contact the libraries or book a free tech help session at the libraries.

Libraries Continue to Thrive!

Join Sally Gare (Herzfeld) as she talks about her book, Outback Teacher (Allen & Unwin), the story of a remarkable young woman, life with her students and their adventures in remote Australia. Sally Gare grew up in Darlington as one of the Gare family, and since 1969 has lived in Darlington with husband Tom Herzfeld and her family. Bookings are essential at https://240423b.eventbrite.com.au.

Employment Tips for Persons with Disability

presented by Aly Bannister

Boya Community Centre, Friday 28 April, 10.30am-11.30am

Aly will share ideas aimed at helping individuals with a disability to find employment by providing a solid foundation on where to begin job searching, tips of creating a winning resume, and information on where to access free training and resources to upskill. Places are limited. Bookings are essential at https://280423b.eventbrite.com.au.

Library eNewsletter

Stay up to date with events and other library information by subscribing to the Library Newsletter at https://bit.ly/ MUNlibnews.

Some said that libraries wouldn't survive the digital age, and yet libraries everywhere continue to thrive.

Shire of Mundaring Libraries have had 16, 996 people through our doors in the first two months of this year - a 16.37% increase on the same period last year. We have also welcomed 298 new members in January and February this year - a 21% increase compared to the same period last year.

Libraries are so much more than books. As a local resident wrote in a quote celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Katharine Susannah Prichard Library (Greenmount): "The libraries are havens of warmth and comfort for the mind and the body, as well as a focal point in the community".

Providing dental care for the whole family in a leafy, relaxed setting since 1993

o Invisible braces (Smile Tru)

o Early correction of crowding, over & underbites

o Professional teeth whitening (Pola)

o Cosmetic dentistry

o Crowns / Veneers / Bridges

o Tooth coloured fillings

o Splints & sport mouthguards

o Muscle relaxants

Always welcoming new patients…

Wendy Hardman Cath O’Reilly

Dr Karl Bailey Dr Zuzia Zykus

Through These Lines at Marloo Theatre

The Darlington Theatre Players at Marloo Theatre are very proud to present their second season for 2023, the Australian drama ‘Through These Lines’ which will be directed by Michelle Ezzy with Assistant Direction from Rebecca McRae.

Written by Sydney based actor and playwright Cheryl Ward, the play premiered in 2010 in very unique circumstances, being staged in the old military tunnels in Mosman NSW. Ward’s play focuses on the nurses of WW1, providing a voice to the often unsung heroes of this time in Australia’s history.

The action of the play, based on the letters and diaries of Australian Army nurses who served during WW1, follows Sister Florence Whiting (Hetty Lobegeiger) from her work on the troopship Kyarra to tours in the Dardanelles, Lemnos, Egypt, France & the Western Front. Presented by a cast of just six performers (many of whom play multiple roles), this visceral and moving piece of theatre will come to life on the Marloo stage for a ten show season this April/May.

This Western Australian Premiere features local performers Hetty Lobegeiger, Alan Gill, Amanda Moloney, Sam Barnett, Joanna Tyler and Christopher Steicke, all of whom are tackling challenging characterisation tasks as well as accents varying from Canadian to Turkish. Local actor and producer Alan Gill returns to the Marloo stage after several previous productions with the Darlington Theatre Players including ‘1916: A Love Story. He also notably performed in and co-produced ‘Emilie: La Marquis du Chatelet Defends Her Life Tonight’ for Anatomical Heart Productions. “ We don't often reflect on the nurses who were integral to the war effort” he said. “Frequently we skip over the less-flattering bits to focus on 'mate ship' and ‘courage' he continued.

The timing of the season is no happy accident, with the show opening in the week of Anzac Day. “Through These Lines’ gives audiences a front row seat to an Australian history that is often forgotten as we commemorate ANZAC days each April” Gill stated.

"The play celebrates and acknowledges the dedication of Australian nurses without shying away from the horrors of war” Gill continued. Having said that, the horrors of war are being directed and staged in a way which maintains and presents the challenging nature of the content in a safe and sensitive manner. Director Michelle Ezzy is also a leader in the field of Intimacy Coordination and implementing safe theatre practices (as featured in the March issue of the Darlington Review). Intimate scenes were rehearsed and choreographed in a safe manner, utilising the safe theatre guidelines and some confronting fight sequences were choreographed step by step.

Hetty Lobegeiger who plays Sister Florence Whiting loves how the show focuses on the role of women during times of conflict. “It looks at the roles of women within war and the difference that courageous and bold women can make to history” she said. Commenting on the unique nature of the show she stated that “it is different in that, despite the tragedy unfurling around them, the characters make the most of what they have. The nurses respond to the challenges before them with love, heart and humour” she concluded.

‘Through These Lines’ opens on April 28th and will run until May 13th at Marloo Theatre, Greenmount and tickets can be booked at www.trybooking.com/CFPEV

Chris McRae

Classifieds

GARDENING, pruning, weeding, mulching, whipper snipping, gutters cleaned, general tidy up. Phone: Geoff 0409 088 936.

60+ DANCE CLASS, Mondays 9.30am Darlington Hall, cost $15. All welcome, no experience needed. Contact Lynne 0409 520 023.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Dry Jarrah, Wandoo & Lemon, Blue & Red Gum. The wood is seasonally dried in manageable sizes. 4 x 7 trailer load + delivery: $195. Stay warm this winter. Call Shelton 0452 541 069.

BIG PLANT SALE: Its on again! Heaps of indoor plants & more going cheap. Large & small pots, hanging baskets & succulents. Come and grab a bargain! Saturday 15th April; 9am-2pm; 29 Beenong Road, Darlington; phone 0400 994 297.

HILLSIDE OUTDOOR BLINDS Your hills specialist in all styles of blinds & awnings. Mesh block-out fabrics offer views whilst blocking out 95% of the sun, wind, rain & protection from bugs. All blinds made inhouse from 100% Aussie parts, stainless steel & aluminium NO RUST! Fully auto with remote control options available. For a demo & to discuss creating your perfect outdoor entertaining area. Phone Yvonne 0416 233 277.

COMMUNITY GRANTS program

Quick Grant Round opens 21 April

Eligible community groups can now apply for up to $500 towards the purchase of small equipment, training, promotional material and any other small projects that benefit the local community.

Search for Community Grants on the Shire website for funding guidelines or phone 9290 6678 to discuss, particularly if applying for the first time. Applications must be submitted at mundaring.smartygrants.com.au by 4pm Monday 22 May 2023.

Step back in time at The Parkerville Tavern's acclaimed theatre dinner, 'Through the Eyes of Alice, Tales of Murder and Mayhem.' Join Alice Ottey, played by local actor Taneal Thompson, as she recounts past events and marvels at what her humble hotel has become.

Alice Ottey, the original owner of The Railway Hotel, (now The Parkerville Tavern) will take you on a historical journey, as she wonders at the sights and sounds of the success of ‘her’ tavern – The Parkerville Tavern – leading patrons on a historical tour of this landmark, historically listed, pub in the hills. The event includes a 3 course meal, performance and tour. Limited places available. Please visit parkervilletavern.com.au/whats-on/ for more info and to book.