Darlington Review • Vol.63 No.6 • July 2023

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Chris Durrant | Editor

As always it is a pleasure to be back, albeit fleetingly, at the helm of the State’s, if not the country’s, premier community magazine. There is plenty to bring to your attention and celebrate and we might start with the forthcoming celebration of one of Darlington’s structural icons.

The Long Hall

One building you cannot fail to be familiar with in Darlington is the Hall. Indeed, if you are a long-time member of the Darlington Club you will have been going there most Friday evenings for years. Even if you aren’t, the chances are that you will often have been inside for a meeting, a concert, or somebody’s birthday party. Not only is it one of our village’s better-known buildings, it is also one of the most interesting.

fruitless and, after Holmes’ death in 1913, the vineyard fell into disuse and disrepair and it must be assumed that bottles of its produce ceased to be housed in the vault which must have stood empty. It is worth mentioning that the Darlington History Group (who else?) has some very interesting information about the vines planted on both sides of the railway and the wines made from their grapes which we will share with you in a future Review. The DHG publication 'The historical story of the Original Darlington Vineyard' by Cliff Burns and Arlene Collings has more on all this.

I should point out that we are talking about the Lesser Hall: the main Hall was only added many decades later. The Lesser Hall was originally built in 1888 as the wine vaults (cellar) for Dr Alfred Waylen’s vineyard which, at that time, occupied much of the surrounding land. It was designed by James William Wright, himself quite an interesting fellow. He first came out from Britain to South Australia as an assistant engineer in the 1870s. In the 1880s he moved to WA where he was responsible for the design of the section of the railway from Guildford to Chidlow’s Well. Soon after that was completed in 1884, Wright left the public service and went into private practice as an architect. He became one of the leaders of the architectural profession in the State, and his works included Woodbridge House on the Swan, for Charles Harper, founder of Guildford Grammar School, the first grandstand at the WACA, the grandstand and public enclosure at Ascot Racecourse, York Town Hall, and, nearest to our hearts, the Darlington Vineyard wine vaults.

The vineyard continued to operate successfully for a good many years, being purchased by Perth wine merchant Richard Holmes following Alfred Waylen’s death in 1901. Holmes apparently added a substantial orchard, piggeries and a poultry farm! Attempts to sell the land from 1911 onwards were evidently

In 1918, after presumably lying vacant for several years, the vault was first used for a social occasion (a masked ball!) and five years later the ‘Agricultural Hall’, as it was then known, was purchased for £425 (plus alterations, furniture, and piano totalling another £250) by the Darlington Progress Association (that later became our ratepayers’ association) for use as a local hall. Its new incarnation was formally recognised on 18th August 1923 when it was officially opened by the State Premier, Sir James Mitchell. He was reportedly much impressed, calling Darlington “the Sassafras of Western Australia”, a reference presumably to the picturesque Victorian town of that name (this was in the days when we Western Australians would say nice things about the Eastern States.) I am most grateful for these historical pearls to Cliff Burns & Arlene Collings from their book “Historic structures and buildings of Darlington”, an essential part of any Darlington resident’s library, with some additional information provided by the Darlington History Group’s Lyn Myles.

I’m sure you will not be surprised to learn that it is planned to hold a grand Centenary Celebration this year on 19th August, almost exactly 100 years since Sir James did his stuff. This (also unsurprisingly) is being organised by the indefatigable Sally Herzfeld. If you have any memories of the hall from days gone by - school concerts, Anzac services, Guides and Scouts, Freemasons Lodge, Theatre players, Kajamaba ladies choir(or Curlies Girlies as they were sometimes known - you’ll have to ask Sally to explain that!), ballet classes, badminton, fancy dress balls, square dancing, P&C balls, picture theatre, planting poplar trees outside for the outdoor theatre - especially if you have any photos, please contact Sally at alisonherzfeld@gmail.com or drop them into the letterbox at 9 Gladys Street. The plan is to put together a book of memories to be shown and added to on 19th August.

(Left) The Wine Vaults building in 1909 and (right) the Lesser Hall as it is today.

Making Murals - and Much More!

It’s good to know the Darlington Arts Festival (November 4/5) not only provides entertainment, uplift and learning, but is also keen to involve young people who might find participation in the busy festival and have-a-go workshops off the mark or difficult to manage – so Mundaring Shire is funding a bold initiative as part of its Youth Engagement Partnership program.

DAF President Amy Pepper says last year’s first such partnership with the Shire saw students helping to produce an eye-catching sculpture, an interactive digital work and the mural that brightens the Community Pavilion wall opposite the skatepark. Some 120 were involved and the overall feedback was positive – which is why DAF applied for a second such grant this year. “We particularly want to engage with teenagers who for whatever reason, find participation a challenge,” explains Amy. “So, we’re holding pre-Festival workshops at venues across the Shire. We’ve cast the net wide from the Department of Communities, Parkerville Youth Care, DADAA and other organisations to lawyers, social workers and word-of-mouth. The aim is to bring kids with challenges together with others who just want to be involved with the programs. Generating a sense of belonging makes participation so much easier, and so much more fulfilling.”

This year, participants will also enjoy a Saturday night gathering in the Sculpture on the Scarp area (Station Reserve) where the digital project will be projected on the sculptural work and the towering white gums. There will be music and a family friendly vibe. “In this way an age group that wants to be part of the evening’s festival fun can do so, and we hope to attract families, so there’s a nice mix of age groups,” says Amy.

An extra dimension of this project sees DAF collaborate with Mundaring Arts Centre and Midland Junction Arts Centre to offer a professional development opportunity for older teens who already show an interest in a career in the arts. “They might learn to photograph their works, write a biography, or figure out what direction to take next in their art – but we’ll be asking young people themselves what the sorts of skills they’d like to acquire, so we can tailor the professional development to their needs,” she says. What an amazing opportunity!

For an ambitious program such as this, DAF is putting about a call for volunteers with relevant experience, so if you’re a youth worker, teacher or have skills that could enrich this project, please contact Amy on president@darlingtonartsfestival.com

Over the next few issues, the Review will be putting a call for new Festival volunteers for the annual Festival that has come to define our community over its 70-year history. DAF is engaging in a process of strategic planning to keep the ship steady for a few years and provide a solid foundation for decision-making. “As part of our strategic plan, we’re especially looking for people who want to be involved, but aren’t ready to take on a committee role. We always offer mentoring so volunteers feel at home in a particular area before taking on a role. In this way we ensure that the Festival remains vibrant.”

(Left) Busy sculpting” and (right) that’s digital art!

Sound and Lights

Those of you who have been to the staged events at the Arts Festival in recent years can hardly have failed to notice, hovering in the background, a tall, genial, dread-locked young man who has ensured that the performers are appropriately illuminated and the sounds they or their instruments make are correctly conveyed to the audience. You may not have realised that he is a home-grown Darlington talent.

Andrew Greenham, born to parents living in a house they had almost completed just down the way from us in Lionel Road, spent much of his childhood in Darlington. There was a brief period when the family moved to Busselton, but Andrew never really felt at home there – as he says, he was used to swinging from trees and swimming in dams rather than surfing or paddling in the ocean! Fortunately, they returned to the Hills in time for him to enroll in Year 3 at Darlington Primary School where he met, and subsequently became good mates with, our youngest son Matt.

as an employee or contractor, but for the last 13 of those years in his own business. Some of the early jobs he did – including sanding floors – gave him a wider expertise in the construction industry and his firm is also into landscaping which in fact, with the impact of COVID on the entertainment industry, has become proportionately more important than the sound and light. He has done a number of tours – John Williamson and British India to name but a couple – as well doing the lights and sound for local productions of all sorts. Darlington Arts Festival is one of his favourite gigs and he is hoping to see street festivals such as the Zig Zag in Kalamunda make a comeback.

On a personal level, Andrew is married to Taryn. They were together when they were teenagers, then went their separate ways before reconnecting by chance through Facebook many years later. They now live in Parkerville (I’m sure we can forgive him that: it may not be Darlington, but it’s still quite a decent

Both of them remember with affection being taught by Don Hughes, now more famous as one half (with Teresa Aldred) of the wacky Grandhandz Piano Duo, but in those days an innovative and idealistic teacher. Andrew recalls him teaching the class Esperanto (that international language created by Polish physician L.L. Zamenhof at the end of the 19th Century). It evidently had an impact on him: all these years later he was still able to recall a few Esperanto phrases! From Darlington Primary Andrew progressed to Eastern Hills. When the time came to consider careers, he says the big attractions were motor-racing (he was a keen go-karter) and music – he played bass guitar in a group. However, the other side of the music industry – provision of sound and lighting for performances, was equally interesting and much more likely to provide him with a living wage, so that was the direction in which he steered his ship. Andrew has now been in that side of the music industry for no less than 25 years, initially working

place) with Taryn’s three children from her previous relationship (two of whom work for Andrew at the moment) and their own delightful little toddler, Lucia. Like most of us who have spent any length of time here, he is convinced that the Perth Hills is the best place to live and a great environment in which to raise a family. Beautiful country, caring community, what could be better? As he says – “be thankful and enjoy!”

DPS graduates 1994. Andrew in 2nd row, 3rd from left. Our son Matt in same row extreme left, Don Hughes seated in the front. How many of you recognise yourselves (or your children)?

(Left) Ready for action and (right) setting up for the recent Save Perth Hills concert.

Noisebins

No, this is not what happens when the Shire’s truck comes round and rouses you in the early morning as it collects your garbage! Careful readers of the Review will know that there was an article in last month’s Review, with a fine picture of some of the Noisebin’s constructors in Gus Skene’s shed where much of the work is being done. As far as I can see, though, you weren’t told what the Noisebin is. So, pay careful attention!

The idea, developed by Graeme, Gus, Kevin, Ian and others a couple of years ago came out of a project that they worked on with the students of Darlington Primary and Treetops Montessori schools as part of the Millenium Kids initiative. This explored the idea of constructing a bin which would actively encourage the useful disposal of rubbish. The youthful designers came up with the notion of a large and decorative rubbish bin, wired in such a way that, whenever you put something into it, it plays a tune or puts on a light show or both. Since that general concept was approved, our construction team have been working to put the plan into effect. Our Noisebin will just collect the sort of cans and bottles that you can give in at the Containers for Change depots at the Shire’s Coppin Road tip or in Midland. It is yet to be decided who will benefit from what is collected, but you can be sure it will be a very worthy local charity. Funding has so far been through a grant from the Shire and the donation of materials from the likes of Midalia Steel.

The bin is going to be contained in a large and elaborate structure made to look a bit like a Boab tree. There will be at least two chutes to collect the containers, and they will allow you to deposit what is needed but will be too small for more inappropriate items, such as small dogs, toddlers etc. It will be

located near the Sports Pavilion where much desirable rubbish – beer bottles, cans and the like – is traditionally generated. The Shire will empty it regularly. While this may not be a world first – there have been similar projects in Germany, for example – the lads believe that it has never been done on quite such a grand scale. Much of the main structure is complete and it remains to 0 the sound and lighting circuitry. Local architect Javi Ayora is working on a structural plan and site layout to satisfy the Shire. Completion date could be as early as the end of July if all goes well. However, there is still a need for work on the coding necessary to get the sound and lights responding as desired so, if that sort of thing is your bag, please contact the team at admin@noisebin.org

More Hatching

Many of you will be familiar with Two Birds, that charming little store behind the Post Office where you can purchase all sorts of fascinating and beautiful homeware and other artisan products made by a number of local craftsfolk. The shop’s owner, Meg Selman, is planning a small extension to Two Birds which, as she says, will be “a well-curated hub for up-cycled (i.e. re-cycled) clothing/shoes/knick-knacks and accessories ... A vintage, retroesque extension of Two Birds”. To be called, most appropriately, ‘Rehatched’, it will be run by Meg’s daughter Sophie (whose idea it was) and a grand opening is planned for Saturday 8th July (see ‘What’s on’ at the end of this editorial). Opening hours will be the same as for Two Birds – 9.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. Tuesday – Friday, Saturdays 8.30 – 3.00, and Sundays 10.00 – 3.00. Sophie will be sourcing much of her stock from her own contacts but, if you think you have something that might be suitable for sale there,

bring it in and she will buy it if it fits her bill. It should be a very welcome addition to the downtown Darlington shopping scene.

The bin framework structure more or less where the finished bin will be.

(Left) Real boab and (right) early design.

Meg and Sophie Selman at work on ‘Rehatched’.

Darlington’s Got Talent!

No, it’s not the name for a new reality TV program, just a statement of fact! Some of you will have attended the Variety Concert held at the Hall on 10th June in aid of Save Perth Hills and will be able to attest to that fact from personal experience. We had poems, songs, dances and comedy from an extraordinary collection of performers, most of them Darlington residents, ranging in age from teens to post-dotage who gave us an unforgettable evening. Pictures of some (not all – there just wouldn’t be room!) can be seen below. Thanks from SPH to all who helped organise the evening and the amazing performers who proved how true the heading to this paragraph is! Incidentally, if you brought along, with your BYO libation, a rather nice Rotary glass inscribed with the name of a former police commissioner, you can recover it from Betty Pitcher who so ably organised the refreshments!

The object of the exercise, of course, was to do what we can to stop the proposed North Stoneville development, and apparently over $4,000 was raised from the concert, raffle, and cake sales. As one of the performers said, “Let’s hope David beats Goliath on this one!”

Grandhandz – Teresa Aldred and Don Hughes.

(Left) Felix Steinwandel – singer and (right) Felix and fans - Arianwen P-J and Grace Cook (guitarists and singers), Odette Leclezio (violinist).

(Left) Penny Reynolds - singer and (right) Jonathan Brain and Ben Bulla.

Dancing Through Life

Those of you lucky enough to have attended the Variety Concert, will have been entranced by belly-dancer Amanda Smith (pictured right) whose beguiling and sinuous expression of that ancient middle-eastern art form had the audience in the palm of her hand (or perhaps, one might say, in the button of her belly?). Amanda started bellydancing by doing a course at TAFE more than 20 years ago and has never lost her passion for it.

Born in Tom Price, she spent many of her early years in the Pilbara before coming down to high school in Perth where, she says, she got involved in everything – sport, art, music. After a gap year in England, which she spent working at a girls’ boarding school and a pub in the New Forest (presumably rather different environments) she returned to WA to complete a university degree in fine arts. Amanda then enrolled for a Dip Ed, but realised quite early on that teaching teenagers was not her thing. Administrative jobs in the mining and finance industries followed, with some teaching belly-dancing on the side, until one of her admin jobs took her in a promising direction. This was with the Community Service branch of the City of Swan and from there she got involved in teaching English to people, mainly migrants, to enable them to cope with study, find work, and qualify for residence in Australia. Her obvious enthusiasm and growing expertise led to even more responsible jobs and she now heads up a program at Curtin University where she directs successful students to run peer-led study sessions that help other students get more out of their studies. They run about 60 sessions each week and, given that her workforce are themselves students and only available as mentors while they are studying, she has to cope with an annual staff turnover of about 50 per cent.

This leaves her relatively little time for belly-dancing although she did run a fund-raiser workshop at the Darlington Arts Festival last year, and another is planned soon for this year – watch this space. If that were not enough, she is also a talented artist who

has exhibited (and sold) paintings at DAF for several years. Despite this, and the huge amount of work still being done around the house and garden (see below!), she has been helping a recently-arrived Ukrainian family, some of whose more elderly members had barely a word of English when they got here, improve their command of that language.

The other half of this partnership, Len Nielsen, will need no introduction to anyone concerned with DAF, of which he was the Treasurer for several years. A Gidgegannup lad and graduate of Eastern Hills SHS (a classmate of our eldest daughter, Tamsin), Len was actually born in Denmark (the country, not the town) and came to WA after his Danish father married his Australian mother and followed her home. After school Len did some work in the building industry (proving very useful now!) before studying sports science and computer science at uni. What he really wanted, though, was to get into medicine, and he gained interesting experience in that field, working on an amputations ward and a program doing research into Alzheimer’s disease. Having been unable to breach the high walls of medicine in WA, he gave it a go in his native Denmark. However, it turned out to be just as competitive there and his inability to speak much Danish didn’t help. When the Danish authorities suggested that he might like to do his National Service in their army, he took this as a sign that he should return home to WA which he did.

He resumed his connection with his alma mater, Curtin University, and in due course became involved in international student recruitment, which saw him travelling extensively in Asia to interview and assess potential students. Back home he became even more involved in student welfare and, as an off-shoot of this, has become a key figure in a Curtin program providing teaching resources to people in prison. They are dealing at the moment with more than 100 incarcerated students, mostly in WA, but also in jails elsewhere in Australia. Len liaises between the course co-ordinators at Curtin and the prison authorities, often visiting the prisons and providing direct assistance to the prisoners. You can tell that he is passionate about this scheme to try and do something to turn around the lives of people in a very bad place, for their own benefit and that of the general community.

Amanda and Len have now lived in Darlington for 15 years in a magnificently situated dwelling with superb views of the city in the distance. The original house was a little weekender shack, to which numerous additions and modifications have been made over the years. The two of them have done, and are still doing, great things with much more planned in the house and garden. As noted above, Len’s early experience in the building industry has served him well!

I think it is fair to say that Amanda and Len are good examples of the sort of people that make Darlington such a great place to live in – talented, committed, ready to do their bit for the community, and interested in what is going on around them.

Len and Amanda with the real boss, ‘Lutz’ the greyhound.

Twilight In The Forest

No, not our forest! One far away in Africa! By the time you read this, the third novel in the Graythorpe saga will have been launched at the KSP Writer’s Centre. I hope you won’t find it an improper use of my duties as Editor of the Review this month to mention that you can get copies at the Post Office, the Little Nook, the Hive or direct from me. Full details available on the website at www.chrisdurrant.com

Echoes From The Council Chamber

• You may start getting your rates notices not too long after reading this. Don’t be surprised if you see yet another rate increase this year. However, it might not be quite as severe as it could have been. Councils were apparently to be slugged with an electricity cost increase of 44%, but this has now been modified so that it will be only 7½ % per annum over the next five years!

• The structure of our Shire Council is going to change. At the moment we have a council of 12 members, three elected by each of the four wards. After the biennial elections (at which half the council will stand for re-election) the Councillors elect one of their number as President. Our current Councillors in the South Ward are Trish Cook and Luke Ellery, whose terms expire in 2025,

Well, that’s it from me for this month. You will have to put up with me for one more episode and I will then be passing the baton for September to local journo Sarah Brookes. I thought I’d end with one of my favourite wildflowers, now in bounteous and beautiful bloom in our bush (don’t you like lovely alliteration?). Enjoy this image of hovea pungens and may it help you survive what we hope will be a not-too-chilly but respectably wet winter!

Chris Durrant | Editor

and James Martin, also Shire President, whose term comes to an end in October this year and who would normally be able to stand for re-election as a Councillor. However, by decree of the State Government, effective this October, there will only be two representatives for each ward, a total of eight, and the President will be elected separately by the whole Shire. Consequently, there will be no councillors’ election in our ward this year, and Cr Martin’s seat will cease to exist. He may, of course, if he chooses, stand as a candidate for Shire president and, if successful, would remain on Council in that capacity. Preferential voting will also be introduced, as at State and Federal elections, although it will be ‘optional’ i.e. voters do not have to list all their preferences as we must for State and Federal elections. Whether this is all a good thing or not is a matter for debate. There will obviously be some financial savings – councillors get allowances totalling about $27,000 per annum, though this will not have a huge impact on a budget that last year totalled over $59 million. On the other hand, some might see the potential politicisation of the process as a disadvantage. Voting will remain voluntary, not mandatory as it is for State and Federal polls.

• The Shire will be considering its capital works program for the 2024/25 financial year later this year so, if we have any bright ideas, bring them to the attention of your Councillors and/or the Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association without too much delay.

• Effective from July 2024, we are likely to have three garbage bins, the third one being for the disposal of compostable materials.

WHAT’S ON

July 7th-15th

“Much ado about nothing” at Marloo - see their notes.

July 8th ‘Rehatched’ opening next to Two Birds. Champers from 12.00 p.m.

July 16th Darlington Chamber Music Concert 3 at the Hall

August 12th ‘Live at the Hall’ – Dave Hole and Glen Whisson playing to raise funds for the RobertJuniper Award for the Arts – details in the ad elsewhere in the Review.

August 17th Schools Concert at Eastern Hills SHS – also in aid of the RJAA. Detail in next Review.

August 19th Celebration of the Centenary of the opening of Darlington Hall. Detail in next Review

Letters to the Review

Debra Bishop (SPH Deputy Chair on behalf of the SPH Committee) writes: Save Perth Hills Inc. (SPH) is blown away by the generosity, talent and incredible community spirit of Darlington!

On June 10, Darlington Hall was packed for a 5-star Community Variety Concert to raise funds for Save Perth Hills.

Singing, exotic dancing, musicians, piano duets and poetry recitals, along with raffles donated by local businesses and a home-made pop-up cake stall!

Chris Durrant’s MC-ing was an Academy Award performance, as were ALL the fantastic artists who offered their time, and talents, for the SPH Community. An incredible $4000 was raised! WOW!

Shane Bailey writes:

Join the Kitchen Table Conversation: Exploring Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.

Are you interested in understanding the issues surrounding the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait people? Do you believe in foresting respectful dialogue and learning from diverse perspectives? If so, we invite you to be part of a unique community initiative – the Kitchen Table

The Kitchen Table Conversation is a safe and respectful space where community members come together to explore the issues that underpin the referendum for constitutional recognition.

Inspired by the tradition of gathering around the kitchen table, a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and sharing this initiative encourages participants to engage in meaningful dialogue and learn from one another.

This initiative welcomes individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their background or level of knowledge on the subject, your voice and perspective are valuable contributions to this

Participants will have the opportunity to share their thoughts, ask questions, and engage with diverse viewpoints, all while upholding principles of mutual respect and understanding.

We encourage you to join us and be party

SPH will now be able to pay our allimportant insurance cover, and seek legal advice on next steps to stop Satterley’s dangerous and destructive ‘North Stoneville’ housing estate, which could trigger urbanisation of Perth’s Hills.

To Chris, Gail Palmer and Trea Wiltshire –THANK YOU for bringing the Community together for this memorable event.

Almost 7,000 people have viewed SPH’s FaceBook post about Darlington’s epic talent pool!

Darlington – you ROCK!

SPH is deeply grateful to our amazing Community!

of this meaningful community initiative. Your participation will not only deepen your own understanding of the issues at hand but also contribute to the collective effort of building a more inclusive and equitable society.

If you would like to participate in the Kitchen Table Conversation on constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, please contact me.

Contact Shane Bailey on 0466 841 148 to arrange a time or for further information.

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.

Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group (DCRAG)

Recent meeting of DCRAG delegates held and discussed a number of major issues and organizations provided a current update on their activities.

The Noisebin group, displayed their projects system of taking in the waste receptacle and how sound and lights will emanate from its container. It has been well publicised in the Review so looking forward to the final 'build' and location near the skatepark gazebo.

noted that this area was subject to significant water flows to a “seasonal wetland”. Chris Arnold, Wetlands Rehabilitation Action Plan (WRAP) coordinator is involved in the detailed planning. Chris is also pleased with Shire’s assistance and interest in this very ambitious environmental project, and is currently planning future funding opportunities and possibly a Friends Group for the area.

Discussion also held with regards to the proposed BBQ extension, mostly related to the size of the extension. The Darlington Club, instigators of the original suggestion, together with feedback from DRRA, are reviewing plans for moving forward on this community/Shire project.

Excessive sign is unwanted in our village and recreation area Recently several new dog exercise area” signs have appeared on the north side of the oval and the cricket nets, bringing the tally to seven in the recreation area. As well as an unnecessary cost, the poles present a physical hazard to the people trying to recreate on the oval area. DCRAG advocates for discussion with the Shire before any signage installation and the use of existing infrastructure to accommodate signage rather than poles. Awaiting Shire feedback.

The DCRAG subcommittee on the proposed Sport’s Clubs Oval widening and realignment project was formally disbanded. Information gathered over the past 12 months will be handed to the Shire for consideration when later this year it will undertake a whole-of-shire recreation review called Recreation Facilities

Informing Strategy 2023/2024. The committee were sincerely thanked for their efforts as they had received many comments in a very diverse community of views. Please now send your feedback directly to the Shire: Attention Kirk Kitchen, shire@ mundaring.wa.gov.au.

The bollards replacement program will also commence shortly. The bollards will now be replaced in their current position, due to high power electrical cables being located underground.

Infill planting and species selection along Pine Terrace, as part of DCRAG/Shire Tree management program was noted. Availability of tree stock may affect the Shire’s final decision regarding species.

With continuation of the Local Area Masterplan Phase II, it was

The History Group have several projects in the recreation area including an area near the hall for the Tribute Garden and Six Seasons Gardens, reflecting Indigenous culture in Darlington and our colonial history. The trail head walk project is still progressing with Shire support received.

Please check the website for further information: https://www.darlingtonvillage.org/community-groups/ darlington-community-recreation-advisory-group-dcrag/

Colin James | Secretary Trish Cook | Chair

Noise bin folk in proposed location near the skatepark.

More unwanted dog exercise signage up on the north side of the oval. DCRAG advocates the use of existing infrastructure for existing pole signage and future signage.

1906

New Directions and Emerging Issues

Verge Collection and Organic Waste Bins. Cr. Luke Ellery reported the Shire is considering changes to the annual verge collection, including an on-demand collection system. Additionally, in 2024, a further bin will be provided for food and organic waste to all residents, and will be collected by the Shire. The cost of these services will be added to overall waste collection costs.

Halloween’s Future. There have been widespread complaints about the broad advertising of the event last year, which resulted in large crowds coming to Darlington, causing disruption and anti-social behaviour. Discussions are underway on how to retain the family friendly community feel of Halloween that Darlington has enjoyed the last few years, when costumed kids with parents in tow wandered from house to house politely collecting Treats as night fell, ending up at the park to burn off the sugar highs before heading home to dream of dragons. Before it gets out of hand on October 31, 2023 DRAA is considering options and welcomes input from the community.

Follow-Ups and Ongoing Issues

Signage at the Darlington Oval. Signage pollution at the oval is out of hand. Two more huge signs on tall poles popped up overnight, to now number eight signs on one small recreation space, when two signs would be sufficient to remind dog walkers of their duty of care. There are two signs for No Horses, as well. It was reported to a DRRA meeting that questions to the Shire would not be permitted “due to budgetary constraints”. The community applauds the idea of a greater focus on community placemaking, and wants further discussions relating to lack of planning regarding signage in the village. Discussions will be held with representation at a Shire Council meeting where this issue will be raised.

Signage at the Post Office. Aaron, at the Post Office, asked if DRRA could assist with an escalating problem with vehicles parking long term directly in front of the business. DRRA represented the issue to the Shire, with Officers subsequently recommending two dedicated parking bays with 10 minute parking. No Shire decisions were made pending further communication with DRRA and Aaron from the post office. Poul Dahl, DRRA, will report back after attending a Shire meeting where this item is on the agenda. Designs for the BBQ near the playground are more modest, based on feedback from DRRA and community members and are nearing finalisation. DRRA thanks the Darlington Social Club for their considerable efforts over several years in spearheading this project. And thanks to Peter Kitely for his part in the design process. A $25,000 grant from the Shire awaits our final decision and implementation discussions.

Mundaring Town Centre revitalisation project: Significant financial investment by the Shire for a Multi Purpose Community

For more detailed information about the above topics you can request minutes of the last DRRA meeting from DRRA Secretary Julia Richardson richardsonj0102@gmail.com or read previous issues of the Darlington Review’s DRRA notes at www.darlingtonreview.com.au

Facility and Cultural Precinct has significant implications for future Shire development, including Darlington. The project is funded for three years for the first stage of consultation to ensure community involvement. Existing buildings will be repurposed in the second stage. President Anthony Spagnolo, DRRA Chair, has been invited to participate in discussion/information sessions about the project. DRRA member Peter Kitely, attends consultation meetings to keep the community informed as the project proceeds.

New Directions and Emerging Issues

Darlington’s Bridges. Residents treasure the old bridges in their area and are united in preferring they be repaired, not replaced, but this must first be agreed to by a Shire that much prefers to rebuild. Two bridges are currently being discussed: Glebe Road Bridge, pictured above, and Mofflin Road Bridge. Planned repairs to Mofflin Bridge have been postponed pending further inspection. Residents have established a Friends of Mofflin Bridge, researched its history, and represented their preferences at a recent DRRA meeting. Poul Dahl, DRRA, recently doorknocked the Glebe Bridge area to confirm community preferences for repair. DRRA liaises with Shane Purdy, the Shire’s Infrastructure Director on these issues.

Introducing DRRA's Committee

Anthony Spagnolo, DRRA’s Chair, is a dedicated advocate for community driven planning and architectural reform and has deep roots in the Perth Hills region. Hailing from Darlington, his family has had a strong connection to this area for several generations. In addition to his personal ties, Anthony’s extended family resides in Parkerville and Glen Forrest, and run a small business on Nichol Street in Mundaring Town Centre. He is pictured with wife Abigael and daughter Gloria, now 20 months old.

NEXT DRRA MEETING: 6 July, 7:30 pm, at Darlington Hall. Halloween: Community discussion: options for a safe Halloween and opinions on proliferating signage in the village.

“Preserving the character of Darlington and safeguarding the interests of its ratepayers and residents” - Since

Darlington Retirement Accommodation Association (Inc.)

Several members of the Darlington Glen management committee met recently with Kylie Brinfield of the Darlington community garden committee to discuss options regarding the land between the Darlington Glen retirement units and the Darlington community garden.

The DCG committee clearly stated they will strive to be a ‘good neighbour’ and consult fully with the Darlington Glen committee to arrive at a solution that will be acceptable to both parties. Currently there is some confusion as to what is shire land and what is DRAA. Once this has been determined a plan will be jointly prepared that serves the needs of both parties. Issues that will be discussed are the screening options and

the most appropriate screening plants to meet the needs of stakeholders. These needs could include the type of screening plants, shrubs and or trees and any other screening materials that could be deemed appropriate. Issues would include size and variety of trees and shrubs taking account of potential fire hazards and maintenance issues.

The Darlington community garden facility occasionally could be used to stage a community event which may create noise or parking issues which could interfere with the peace and ambiance of the Darlington Glen. These issues will be discussed with the DCG to alleviate any problems before they occur.

Colin Merritt | DRAA Committee

Matthew Hughes MLA JP | Member for Kalamunda

In recent weeks there has been much misinformation abounding regarding the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act causing undue anxiety.

As a member of the Cook Labor Government, I am proud that we have passed laws to better protect Western Australia's Aboriginal cultural heritage – the oldest continuous living culture in the world.

Constituents should be aware that it has been unlawful to harm Aboriginal cultural heritage in Western Australia since the early 1970s. That will not change under the updated laws. What will change is a new tiered system –requiring consultation and agreement making with Aboriginal people and providing simpler approval pathways. Where existing approvals are in place (Section 18), no new approval is required.

The updated laws have been shaped by more than five years of extensive consultation, including input from workshops held across Western Australia last year, and more than 200 submissions from, landowners, local government and industry representatives, including WA Farmers Federation and the Pastoralists and Graziers Association and Aboriginal people. Western Australia’s laws, and the system based on those laws, are outdated, and needed modernising. The system was not good for Aboriginal people or land users, and it led to incidents like the destruction of irreplaceable cultural artifacts at Juukan Gorge. The new laws introduce a modern framework for the protection and management of Aboriginal cultural heritage, making the process simpler and fairer.

These new laws prioritise consultation with Aboriginal people about any land use activities that may impact their cultural heritage. It also introduces for the first time a range of activities that are either exempt from needing an approval or only require a streamlined approval that will specifically benefit farmers and pastoralists.

Disclaimer

Everything that land users are already doing now will be permitted under the new laws with exemptions applying for ‘like for like’ activities. All residential properties under 1100 square metres will be exempt from the new laws entirely.

A farmer replacing an existing fence or running livestock on established farms will not require approval. Existing mining activities will not require new approval, but new mining activities will. Maintenance of water, electricity and other property infrastructure will all be exempt and will not require approval. Demolition of a multiple or grouped dwelling and home improvements typically conducted by homeowners will not require approval. When camping tents, campervans, caravans and swags will be exempt. Installing a pool, clearing a tree and building a fence on residential properties, regardless of lot size, will be exempt.

The new laws only apply where there is a risk of harm to Aboriginal cultural heritage. In most cases in the Perth metropolitan area this will not apply – particularly where land has already been disturbed.

Local Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Services (LACHS) will be the designated point of contact with local expertise in their area. More than 20 organisations have already applied for grant funding with intent to become a LACHS, but it is important to note that the new laws do not rely on LACHS being established. Where LACHS don’t exist, Native Title bodies will be able to support the operation of the new laws, just as they have done for decades.

You can find more information about the Act, including the education workshop schedule, FAQs and Fact Sheets, on the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH) website by contacting DPLH on 08 6551 8002 or email achimplementation@ dplh.wa.gov.au.

The Darlington Review’s Rules of Association (2012) read: “To produce and publish a monthly journal with the intention of fostering good relationships within the Darlington community and keeping residents informed about community issues.” Our Guide for Scribes invites members to submit notes “ to inform members and the Darlington Community about past, ongoing and future activities…”. The Review accepts no liability for errors/omissions contained in articles, statements or advertisements published herein. The views expressed in Letters and Notes are not the views of the Darlington Review and we are not responsible for them. Members are requested to ensure their notes adhere to the magazine’s guiding spirit of fostering harmonious community relationships. The Darlington Review is available in digital format via Issu, the online website.

Darlington Bushfire Ready Group

Am not going to guess what the weather will be like as you read these notes, but winter does seem to be now here. However with some still milder days it does enable us time to get into the garden and bush surrounding our blocks and continue to maintain those lower fuel levels around the house. In doing so it reduces the more dramatic actions required as summer approaches and also enables us to be selective in what to remove or leave to give that 20 metre circle of safety. Removing tree canopy is also easier now, whilst a cooler time.

Many houses are lost to ember attack during a bushfire, in particular if no one is home to defend it from a fire. Embers carried by the wind get into gaps and crevices in the house and may ignite fuel that they land on such as plants close to the building. The more a house and surrounding vegetation is prepared, the better the chance the building will survive a

bushfire, even if you have chosen to leave for a safer place. You may even wish, now winter is here, to have a look at those plants which are close to your house, and could be a fire threat, to actually remove them and replace them with ones that are less fire prone. DFES has many excellent publications on its web site... www.dfes.wa.gov.au ... and one of those is ... ”Why we need to manage forest fuel loads in the urban interface zone”. Reducing fuel load around your property may help protect your home from a bushfire next summer.

Also wanting to know about how to prepare for the next fire season and what to do then go to dfes.wa.gov.au/ safetyinformation/fire/bushfire. Is never too early to start preparing your property for the year ahead.

Colin James, Coordinator | Phone 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, July 11, 2023, at the Darlington Fire Station.

Whilst we head towards the heart of winter fires are still burning readily in the bush, and year-round our volunteers continue to make themselves available to protect our community. If you’re planning fuel reduction burns on your property PLEASE take all possible precautions when lighting fires, even in cooler weather, and importantly make sure fires are not left unattended and are fully extinguished. We strongly recommend that you advise your neighbours before lighting up, and register your burns with DFES on 9395 9209. DFES has created a programme, complete with a raft of information and resources to help land owners and residents carry out safe and effective planned burns during the milder months. The Burn Smart website provides information, plans and checklists, guides and resources to help you plan and conduct a burn on your property. Check out the details at dfes.wa.gov.au/ plannedburning. The Shire of Mundaring also offers FREE winter burning workshops. The workshops, led by experienced Shire officers and brigade members can help you learn how to safely reduce fuel loads on your property. To register for upcoming workshops email winterburning@mundaring.wa.gov.au or call 9290 6666.

Did you know that your sense of smell reduces, and in some cases “switches off”, when you sleep? People are not usually woken during a fire by the smell of smoke, but by other factors like noise, flashing light or an increase in temperature. So, if you forgot to do it on April 1st, now is a good time to check your smoke alarms, including back-up batteries. If you have children at home test your smoke alarm so they know what it sounds like, talk to them about what to do if they hear it, and create and practice an evacuation plan for your home in case of an emergency.

After a long, dry summer the wintery weather is finally upon us, and the brisk mornings and cool evenings are again chilling our bones. Many of us are again relying on our wood fires, or gas and electric heaters for comfort and warmth. Each year during the winter months, the fire services are all too often called out to chimney fires. So now is the time to have your chimneys and flues cleaned by a professional, as it will both improve your heater’s or stove’s efficiency, and also reduce the risk of a fire. Unfortunately, those heat sources are also often the cause of house fires. Remember, your wood fires and heaters should NEVER

be left unattended, and flammable materials should be kept well away from open flames and other heat sources. Please be aware of the location of your heaters and what surrounds them. Ensure that things such as drying clothes, curtains & blinds, and furniture are kept at least one metre away from heaters and stoves, and that all heaters are TURNED OFF when you leave your house.

Over recent months the Parks and Wildlife Service, DFES and local governments have been able to conduct various large hazard reduction burns. These prescribed burning programmes aim to provide a chequerboard type landscape of varying fuel loads and vegetation densities which can potentially help fire services manage and control wild fires during the bush fire season. Unfortunately, due to the on and off rain, and significant changes to the Fire Danger Rating system, our hazard reduction burning programme has been restricted this season. If you have concerns about the fuel load on your property leading up to next fire season, the Darlington Brigade may be able to help. Hazard reduction burns are a great opportunity for our probationary fire fighters to enhance their training with practical, hands on experience with fire suppression, and the equipment and methods we use. Property owners that would like the Brigade to undertake a burn (HRB) on their property can call the Station on 9299 7217, or visit us on a Saturday morning between 9am and 10am. An authorised officer will arrange a visit to examine your property, discuss your issues, and provide a quote based on size, fuel load, topography, access, time to burn etc. (Note: HRBs are subject to weather and environmental considerations).

“When a man becomes a fireman his greatest act of bravery has been accomplished. What he does after that is all in the line of work.” ~

Edward F. Croker

Cheers Ricky Harvey

On 19 June 2023, the Referendum Bill passed both houses of Parliament. It is now your time, your choice, your opportunity to make history.

The Referendum responds to the Uluru Statement from the Heart in 2017, which says, in part:

When we have power over our destiny our children will flourish. They will walk in two worlds and their culture will be a gift to their country.

The Prime Minister will soon name the date.

I will be voting yes, because it gives us the opportunity to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians in our Constitution.

Recognition of 65,000 years of continuous connection to land in our country’s birth certificate. Recognition doesn’t cede sovereignty – something I know is important to many.

I will be voting yes, because the Voice gives me, as your elected parliamentarian, the opportunity to listen.

Listening to grassroots solutions to help Close the Gap and improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. For too long, even with the best intentions, governments have made policies for First Nations people, not with First Nations people.

After the referendum, there will be a consultation process to settle the design of the Voice.

The Voice, however, will not run programs, it will not deliver funding, it will not have any power of veto. It doesn’t create

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

UPCOMING EVENTS:

racial categories, but rather It is about creating a body that will enrich our democratic conversation; a true pluralism that allows us to improve the quality of decision making about matters that affect indigenous people.

The Voice will amplify the voices of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and make a difference where it matters; in employment, in health, in education, in housing, in justice.

The vast majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians support the 2023 referendum.

Many from all across the political spectrum are working together to get this done - including the former member for Hasluck and Liberal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Ken Wyatt, Liberals Julian Leeser and Bridget Archer, the Greens, the Teals, all state premiers, including the Liberal Premier of Tasmania, and Labor leaders and members from all across Australia.

Many people have asked me they can get involved in supporting the YES vote.

There will be many activities and events between now and YES day that you can host or get involved in; kitchen table meetings, doorknocking, signage and community gatherings.

If you haven’t already done so, join the YES campaign at yes23. com.au and see how you can help.

You can read the referendum question at voice.gov.au. To read the Uluru Statement itself, head to ulurustatement.org

Please contact my office for more information on how you can help make history.

Book Cafe | Tuesday 11 July | 9.30am to 11am | $2 Morning Tea

Guest speaker from Guide Dogs WA, along with Ambassador dog Eva. Purchase good quality pre-loved books - all money raised from book sales, raffle and morning tea goes to Guide Dogs WA.

Soup Morning | Tuesday 8 August | 11am to 12pm | Gold coin

The Active Ageing Network will be supplying home made soup with a bun directly after the Coffee Morning.

COMING SOON:

Over 55’s Drop-In Session | Wednesdays | 9.30am to 11.30am

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

Commencing Wednesday 12 July. A safe area for seniors to have a chat, read the paper, play board games or complete a puzzle. Tea and coffee available.

The Hub of the Hills, 8 Craig Street, Mundaring 9290 6683 cso4@mundaring.wa.gov.au | Officer present on: Tuesday 8.30am to 11.30am | Wednesday 9am to 12pm | Thursday 10am to 2pm

Darlington Bushwalking Series

Contact Details

Phone: 9299 6696 Email: cliffburns@iprimus.com.au

Some bushwalking quotes to get us Mooooooving!!

 “There is no wifi in the bush, but you will find a better connection."

 "I'd rather be hiking in the rain, than sitting inside at a desk on a beautiful day."

 "Walking is the answer. Who cares what the question is."

 "Over the mountains and through the bush, down the river and up the valley, over the boulders and through the stream to nowhere in particular."

 “Walking costs nothing but is an investment in your life”

Full Steam Ahead

Bookings for the 2023 Bush and Variety Walks Programme are well underway with most walks heavily booked. Some vacancies are still available. The programme is summarised below. Email Cliff cliffburns@iprimus.com.au to make a booking or to receive full details of the 2023 Programme. You can book all or individual walks.

A Funny Thing Happened……

Bill and Ben were hiking in Africa when they came to a bend, only to find an enormous lion confronting them. The lion, spotting the two hikers, began to move towards them. Bill quickly dropped his backpack and started to exchange his hiking boots for running shoes.

Ben says to Bill, “What are you doing? You will never be able to outrun a lion.”

Bill replies, “I don’t have to outrun the lion. I only need to outrun you.”

Jolly Jurien Jaunt Weekend Adventure

VACANCY FOR ONE MALE (25 – 28 August)

Join with 30 other Adventurers. The Adventure includes two days of hiking (5.5km, 4.8km, 2.1km & 1.6km), hilarious social activities and accommodation at excellent apartments each night. Participants carry only light weight day-packs. Without doubt this area is some of the best bushwalking trails in Western Australia. Contact Cliff on 9299 6696 or cliffburns@iprimus.com.au for all the details.

Receive the latest information with “Bushwalk News”

Ask to be placed on the “Bushwalk News” email list to receive all the new information hot off the press.

Darlington “Walk Trails & Circuits”–2nd Edition

This 26 page book includes almost every trail or track around Darlington. $10, Contact Cliff or Sharron.

See you on the track.

Cliff Burns (Organizer and Guide) 9299 6696

Darlington Bush & Variety Walk Series

BOOKINGS NOW OPEN (# indicates a new walk)

Residents invited.

First in, first served. Book as many walks as you wish. Sunday mornings ($5 each) & “Jolly Jurien Jaunt” Weekend.

Sun. 2 # Carmel Bushlands Loop

Sun. 9LakeLeschenaultia Bushlands

Sun. 23 # Swan River & Old Guildford July

Sun. 16 # Schipp Rd Bushlands, Piesse Brook

Sun. 30Bells Rapids and Mount Mambup

Sun. 6 # Berry Reserve and Noble Falls

Sun. 13John Forrest Nat. Park & Jane Brook

Sun. 20 # Mokine Nature Res. and Farm Walk Aug.

25-28 JOLLY JURIEN JAUNT ADVENTURE

Sun. 3 # Banyowla Reg. Park, Water Channel

Sun. 10 # Alp Road Reserve Sawyers Valley

Sun. 17 # Sullivan Rock, Mt Vincent, Mt Cuthbert Sept.

22–25 JOLLY JURIEN JAUNT ADVENTURE

Sun. 1 # South Darlington Bushlands

Sun. 8 # Wandoo Nature Res & Susannah Br. Oct.

Sun. 15 # Lesmurdie Falls & WIND-UP

A new year often brings new beginnings and I've been delighted to see many young families and friends move to their new homes in Darlington. One friend had a lovely note from a neighbour welcoming them and complimenting the young couple on how wonderful it was to see them walking their new baby in the neighbourhood.

I'm pleased to report that in January the Shire welcomed 29 new Australians from nine different countries in a citizenship ceremony. Congratulations to our newest citizens on joining our proud country; those in our Shire know that our land truly does 'abound with nature's gifts'.

While some are happily moving into new homes I acknowledge that there is a growing rental/homelessness crisis. Several councillors have been talking to community groups on how we can bring help, hope and homes to those who find themselves displaced.

Over the holiday period I've heard from residents who have felt unsafe due to crime and other incidents in our neighbourhood. I am sorry that this would happen in our Shire and assure you that your councillors, and Shire officers, are always there to help,

and are looking at ways to make our community safer.

At present, councillors and community groups are preparing submissions for the Shire's Capital works program. These may be requests for lighting, road upgrades, trail/park upgrades or other works. Due to the upcoming Federal election, great ideas may well have the contributions of local members.

I highly recommend you write your requests to myself or your fellow South Ward councillors, Cr Trish Cook and James Martin, by the deadline of February 13th.

I recognise that in the coming days many will likely be affected by the spread of COVID and some may be affected by the government mandates. Dietrich Bonhoeffer remarked "We must learn to regard people less in the light of what they do or omit to do, and more in the light of what they suffer."

The strength of a community is rooted in its countless acts of compassion to its members. I am heartened by kindness I see on display in the community and hope that it may continue and be a light to others in these times.

Welcome to Glen Forrest Bridge Club

It’s officially winter! Come and enjoy the warmth of our lovely fire and the friendly atmosphere of the club. If you have been thinking about learning or brushing up your bridge skills, now is a great time to start. Glen Forrest Bridge club offers a great opportunity, right here in our nearby neighbourhood.

Glen Forrest Bridge Club, is a friendly and supportive club that caters to both experienced players and complete beginners.

Our beginners/improvers session is held on Wednesday mornings 9.30am to 11.30am. People can learn to play from scratch, refresh skills, or just play socially without the pressure of competition. No need to feel shy, everyone is made very welcome.

Regular sessions are held on Monday 1.00pm to 5.00pm, Wednesday 12.30pm to 4.30pm for those people who enjoy the more competitive playing.

The Bridge club is located at the Glenforrest Sports Club in Mc Glew Road. Fees are very modest and include membership of

Glen Forrest Bridge Club

the Sports Club. After the Monday and Wednesday sessions refreshments are available from the Sports Club bar to discuss  hands play with whoever wishes to stay for a drink.

Come on you know you want to. We are waiting to meet you.

Bev 0437 817 359 or Fred 0417 913 468

Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers' Centre

2024 Upcoming Writing Residency

Applications are open! Deadline 21 July 2023, Salary $500 AUS, 1-2 weeks duration

Applicants in this category should be a current resident of Australia and a current KSP-member. They should also be under the age of 30 years at the application deadline and have been or are currently involved in the writing sector. They will have some published material in the print, visual or broadcast media and are working towards achieving their first major full-length publication. (Refer to our Guidelines for specific eligibility criteria).

Applications close on July 21, 2023. To apply please visit the KSP Writers’ Centre website.

Writing Workshop: So You Want to Master Multiple Perspectives and Plotlines

Saturday 15 July 2023, 1.00-4.00pm

It’s all about perspective. A single story can be told from multiple angles, and in this workshop, you’ll tackle how to weave together multiple character perspectives and plotlines in a cohesive, enriching way. From multiple eras to varying points of view on the same event, learn practical skills to create intersections in your own multi-layered storytelling. This workshop is run by Rebecca Higgie, an awardwinning writer from Perth. Her whole life has been spent in the company of books, with careers in libraries and universities. Formerly an academic at Curtin University and Brunel University London, she has published research on satire and politics. Her novel The History of Mischief won the 2019 Fogarty Literary Award for an unpublished manuscript.

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

This workshop is suitable for medium to experienced adult writers writing in any genre.

Tickets: $35 KSP members, $50 non-members.

Forrest Darlings CWA

July heralds the excitement of the 99th CWA State Conference at the Novotel Perth Langley. The highlight of the year for many CWA members, this annual event brings together members of CWA branches from right across WA. This year’s theme is “Embracing Change.”

Conference delegates are asked to reflect on this quote from Pauline R Kezer:

Continuity gives us roots; changes gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights.

2024 will mark the 100th anniversary of the CWA of WA. We are on the threshold of the next century of service to the Western Australian Community. The theme of “Embracing Change” has been chosen to acknowledge and respect our past, and to show bravery in pioneering new ideas and being change makers for our future sustainability.

We look forward to the conference and to embracing change with members from across the State. At our June meeting we discussed the conference motions and made our decisions on how our delegate will vote at the conference. The motions cover a range of topical issues put forward by the

branches such as road safety, rural schools and grandparent carers.

Forrest Darlings is a modern branch of the CWA of WA which meets monthly at the Darlington Pavilion. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at 7pm. For more information about joining or visiting contact Kate Herren (President) on 0452 644 248 or follow Forrest Darlings on Facebook.

Mundaring and Hills Historical Society

Chidlow

The original name for Chidlow was Chidlow's Well, named after pioneer William Chidlow, who discovered a watering hole near the present-day intersection of Old Northam and Liberton Roads, and dug a well there. William and his brother Peter would frequently utilise this as a stopping place, as would other travellers, while journeying between Guildford and Northam or York. Chidlow’s Well was used as an overnight camp until the mid-1830s, although it was not officially surveyed until 1847, where it was described as ‘a shallow waterhole dry in summer’. In the ensuing years, the well was deepened and lined, but failed to be a reliable source of water and, by the 1880s, a larger well was dug further up the same gully. Water would become a constant refrain throughout Chidlow’s development.

In September of 1883, Governor Broome was asked to suggest a name for the location. He decided to stay with its unofficial name, Chidlow’s Well. It was officially gazetted as a townsite in February 1884, the first town in what would become the Shire of Mundaring. Chidlow’s Well grew rapidly and its role as the eastern railway terminus brought both people and employment opportunities to the town. When John Symonds, the licensee of the Oxford Hotel in Mahogany Creek, heard that a new township was to be

established at Chidlow’s Well, he advertised his intention to apply for his license to be transferred. With financial assistance from the railway contractor and land leased from the railways, Symonds built his premises from local, hand-hewn timber. He opened for business on Saturday 12 April 1884, operating 24 hours a day. The railway service from Bellevue to Chidlow ceased in 1966, when the railway was finally decommissioned.

Chidlow was also home to WWll Army camps which were established between 1942 and 1944 and as a training ground for over 50,000 troops.

Mundaring and Hills Historical Society has much more information about Chidlow, if you would like to know more, don’t hesitate to contact us.

3060 Jacoby Street, Mundaring. Email: mhhs@mundaringhistory.org | Phone: 9295 0540

Rotary Club of Midland Swan Valley (Swan Rotary)

Rotary Fellowships are international groups which share a common passion. They are a way for Rotarians and nonRotarians to connect with each other, enjoy a hobby or profession, and enhance their Rotary experience. There are more than 90 Rotary Fellowships covering a variety of topics, such as sports, culture, hobbies, professions, and social issues.

To join a Rotary Fellowship, you can contact the fellowship directly by using the links on the Rotary website: Rotary.org. Some of the benefits of joining or forming a Rotary Fellowship are:

• Making new friends around the world

• Learning from experts in your field or interest area

• Exploring new cultures and languages

• Having fun and enjoying your passion

• Serving local and international communities

• Promoting Rotary values and goodwill.

Some popular Fellowships:

• International Travel and Hosting: Promotes international understanding and friendship through travel and hosting opportunities among Rotarians and their families. Active in over 70 countries.

• Rotary Peace Fellows: Connects alumni of the Rotary

Peace Centres program, which offers master’s degree and professional development certificate fellowships for peace and development leaders. Active in over 140 countries.

• Wine: Fosters appreciation of wine and food as a cultural experience. Active in over 60 countries.

• Rotary Means Business: Encourages Rotarians to support the success of their fellow Rotarians by doing business with them and by referring others to them. Active in over 80 countries.

• Cycling: Promotes cycling as an opportunity for fellowship, service, and health.

• Active in over 40 countries.

Several Swan Rotary members have joined the local branch of https://rvfr-aus.org.au

The Australian Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians has been in existence for over 40 years and in 2024 it will hold its 46th annual tournament in Busselton, Western Australia. The event is from 14th April through to 19th April and is to be hosted by the Ascot Satellite Rotary Club and Busselton Geographe Bay Rotary Club. (https://agfrtournament2024)

Swan Rotary - come and make a difference with us!

We meet at 7th Avenue Tavern, Midland, Mondays 6.30pm. Contact: Betty Pitcher: Mobile 0408 912 101.

(Left) Chidlow Railway Station early 1900s and (right) The General Store 1912.

DARLINGTON CHAMBER MUSIC

Last month the wonderfully eccentric Trio Tiramisu delighted the Darlington audience with a programme which began with a Spanish Suite by Manuel De Falla, included Interludes by Australian composer Emma Jayakumar and ended with Walz 2 by Shostakovich.

The remarkable breadth of their repertoire was made possible by the arrangement expertise of Tommaso Pollio, Cathie Travers and Sophie Curtis. The joy in their performance was palpable and the audience responded enthusiastically.

Don’t miss the next concert in the W inter series

16 JULY @ 3Pm in the DA r L in G ton h ALL

On Sunday July 16 the Darlington Quartet - Semra Lee, Zak Rowntree, Sally Boud and Jon Tooby - will play Janacek and Haydn. Tickets available at the Little Nook Cafe, Darlington Liquor Store, the Darlington PO, online at humanitix.com and at the door.

Adult: $50/ Concession $45 Under 18: $25

Famed for their dynamism, energy and superb musicianship, the Darlington Quartet redefines the role of the string quartet in society through their visionary programming and electrifying performances. Renowned violinists Semra Lee and Zak Rowntree, violist Sally Boud and cellist Jon Tooby are all highly accomplished musicians with extensive performance histories across all aspects of classical music – as soloists, chamber musicians, orchestral section principals and mentors. The Darlington Quartet will lead WAAPA’s Classical String program, guiding and inspiring students to find their own unique voices, and helping them to establish their professional careers.

“We are beyond excited about joining WAAPA in 2023!” says violinist Zak Rowntree. “We can’t wait to work with the students and participate in the diverse range of performance opportunities that only WAAPA offers. “

Darlington Quartet appointed WAAPA’s Quartet in residence

Shakespearean Comedy Comes To The Marloo Stage

The name William Shakespeare is synonymous with some of the world’s most famous plays, characters and quotes. It is recorded that between 1590 and 1613, Shakespeare wrote some 37 plays. One of his 17 comedies is the classic tale of greed, trickery and jealousy ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ which is coming to the stage at Marloo Theatre this July, directed by Siobhan Vincent.

‘Much Ado’ as it is affectionately called, centres on Count Claudio (Thomas McCracken) who falls in love with Hero (Rebecca Haywood). Soon, deception is afoot as Hero’s cousin Beatrice (Jenny Howard) and the eternal bachelor Benedict (Andrew Govey) are both duped into believing that the other is in love with them. What follows is an entertaining recipe of love, deception, wit and revenge.

Cast member Jeff Watkins (most recently seen at Marloo in ‘One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest’ last year), who plays the dashing Don Pedro considers the play to be an interesting perspective into the drama of storytelling. “Most plots are dependant on deception misunderstandings and hidden truths” they said. “In this play, it’s almost like William Shakespeare us frustrated with the silliness of people’s discomfort with the truth” they continued. “Lies, misunderstandings and pranks form the basis of ‘Much Ado’ and truth wins out in the end” they concluded.

Lauren Buckels who plays Margaret in the show has marvelled at her fellow cast members. “I’m relishing mastering Shakespearean English and am amazed how when the actor understands what is being said, it becomes as if they are speaking plain English” she said. “I am thoroughly enjoying the company of my cast mates” she continued. “They are a lovely, talented group of people” she concluded.

Marloo is well known for producing theatrical seasons of great variety and 2023 is proving to be no different. Commencing with the family friendly ‘Wind in the Willows which was followed

up by the historical WW1-set drama ‘Through These Lines’, a classic Shakespeare is yet another reason to warm yourself on a cold winter’s night by a trip to the theatre. Also well renowned as part of the Marloo show night experience are Amanda Moloney’s creative bar concoctions. For this season “a fruity wine to complement the orchards of Much Ado” has been promised.

Siobhan Vincent, director of shows such as ‘Popcorn’ and ‘Three Tall Women’ at Garrick Theatre, leads an experienced and talented creative team, whose strong vision will bring the iconic setting of Messina to life on Marloo’s vast stage.

“The longevity of Shakespeare derives from his deep understanding of the human condition and from his ability to merge tragedy, comedy and insightful comment” she said. “‘Much Ado About Nothing’ achieves it all. It is a delightful romp, with deep undertones that reveal corruption, sinister plots and deceit” she continued. “The language is unlike much of Shakespeare’s writing. Unusually, it is not written in the traditional iambic pentameter (poetry) but rather in prose, which renders it easy for the modern audience to understand” Vincent explained.

“The story revolves around two principal characters, Benedict and Beatrice, - an avowed bachelor and a determined spinster. Their verbal interchanges and sparring are legendary. The wit and humour extend to the comedic knockabouts, the fumblings of the constabulary, and the intrigue of dark plots, bribery and corruption” Vincent said. “We live in a period in which gender and racial equality are of paramount importance and the subject of discussion. How strange that so little has changed over 400 years, and that Shakespeare should have been so incisive and prophetic in his understanding of these human foibles and frailty” she continued. When asked what audiences should expect from the show, Vincent said “prepare to be at turns rolling with laughter or moved to tears by this iconic comedy.

Much Ado About Nothing opens on Friday July 7th, running until Saturday July 22nd. Tickets can be booked at www.trybooking. com/CHTLZ and this is one not to be missed.

By Chris McRae

Your Hall, Your Community, Your Stories

The date of the hall Centenary is getting nearer, and a small group is working to develop the content and programme for this celebration to be held on Saturday 19 August, 2.30pm5.30pm. As mentioned in this issue’s Editorial, Sally Herzfeld is putting together a book of memories. Any information for the book can be sent to alisonherzfeld@gmail.com or her letterbox 9 Gladys St, Darlington. DHG Archivist Lyn Myles is also happy to collect your information myleslc@bigpond.com or phone 9298 8604. We want the book to include photos and memories of the Hall, especially doing things in the old hall before the new hall was added in the 1960’s. We anticipate the book will be made available on our website.

Your memories may include that a copper was needed to be boiled to make a cup of tea and coffee. Events held included concerts, Fancy Dress Balls, performances by the Theatre Players, as well as serving as a meeting place for many organisations. In more recent times, the Hall was used for Circle Dancing, Quiz Nights, Yoga classes, exercise classes and more. Your old photos may provide a wonderful part of the story of the hall and the people of Darlington from times past. We’d love to hear from you!

My husband Denis and I recently took some time to visit Geelong – the town where both Denis and I grew up. Looking around our old landmarks, we were astounded to see the Church halls where we had many meetings, the Youth Club, and the tennis courts have all been overtaken by housing and in one case, by a cars sales lot! This reinforced to me the need to have a vital community that supports our wonderful open spaces and Village Hall and that we work together to maintain these facilities in the long term. We look forward to hearing from you with your memories, from any era from the Hall’s inception to our present day.

Chair Val Shiell

Archivist Lyn Myles decided to do some Troving to research the early years of the Hall and the activities that occurred there. “I was struck by current times mirroring the past as I learnt the early decades of the 1920’s and 1930’s involved many activities to raise funds for the hall, which was purchased by a committed group of residents when the vineyard was subdivided and sold around 1918. Similarly, the recent building of the Pavilion and Community Garden was undertaken with funding obtained by a group of committed locals to provide these facilities for its residents. The early fundraiser activities reflected the times, consisting of golf dances, horticultural shows, Kids fancy dress, smoke socials, picture shows, concerts, plays, badminton dances and Glee Club. However they had the same focus which was to fund the much needed facilities for the community. An article in the Swan Express dated November 1937 mentioned a concert

program and two plays held in the hall had raised £7 for the Darlington Hall Committee to reduce the Trustee’s overdraft loan on the hall building. Thankfully the dedication of the Darlington community to preserve the hall and recreational areas for future generations has not diminished over time and hopefully this will continue into the future.”

The photograph below is of an event held in the 1950s in the Lesser Hall. The person in the middle marked with the cross is Gwen Owen. Do you recognise anyone in this picture?

Vale Darlington Resident Tom Herzfeld

The Darlington History Group was saddened to hear of Tom’s passing on the 6th June. Tom was born in 1936 in Berlin and two years later Kristallnacht occurred, a turning point that made Germany a dangerous place for people of Jewish background. To escape this, his parents and the family moved to Thailand. Tom was later sent to Guildford Grammar School where he stayed as a boarder for six years and went on to UWA where he graduated as a Civil Engineer. Tom applied his knowledge to civil project management throughout WA, including the Ord River Scheme and the building of the Indian Pacific Rail terminal. He helped Sally in the development of Helena College and was involved in Local, and State Government.

We have lost a wonderful contributor to our community, and the History Group is so grateful to Tom for his talk in 2021 about his life and family background. We treasure those memories. Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to Sally and all members of Tom’s family.

Tom and

Herzfeld April 2021.

Share the heritage and join us for less than the price of an icecream - just $5 a year!

Details dhg.org.au

Sally

Mundaring Medical Centre, next to Aldi

St

St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church

cnr Darlington Rd and Hillsden Rd, Darlington

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

Welcome to St Cuthbert’s , where we try to give our best ...

A CHURCH IS MANY THINGS

The congregation at St Cuthbert’s is pretty typical in many ways; we gather on Sunday mornings to sing hymns, pray, listen to a sermon, celebrate religious festivals and enjoy morning tea. The congregation (not the Diocese) also renovated and maintains one of Darlington’s most iconic landmarks - the church building which will be 100 years old in 2024 - and the grounds around it. Both the church and the grounds are available at any time for anyone who needs a place to be. The Parish Centre is used by quilters, drummers, music teachers and mahjong players; we are excited about the prospect of regular winter concerts in the church building.

All that aside, the recent report to the Annual General Meeting documented more outward looking activity than one might expect from a rather small congregation.

• St Cuthberts’ support of Ascension Connection continues to be important for practical assistance to those in need. Groceries and cash are collected weekly, taken to the Church of the Ascension in Midland and distributed to up to 70 families each week. Every Friday morning the volunteers at Ascension Connection provide not only food hampers for people in need but also a friendly environment for coffee and morning tea, a sausage sizzle, and an opportunity for people to relax and socialise.

• Two parishioners co-ordinate the Clayton View Primary Reading Programme in the Junior School. The five volunteers either listen to reading, read to the Kindy children or help with small groups.

• St Cuthbert’s continues to place a focus on social justice in a local and global context. Some events and issues we focused on in the past year were the “Really Useful

Giftshop” for Tearfund which supports those in need in the developing world.

• Elianie Watson’s fundraising concert for CARAD in the church in October, raised $2,000.

• In November a group of parishioners marched in the annual Pride March with the Perth contingent of Equal Voices WA.

• Palm Sunday’s 2023 Walk for Peace, and Justice for Refugees.

• The congregation supports a branch of World Vision and gets to buy homemade jams and chutneys on the second Sunday of each month!!

If hymns and sermons aren’t your thing but you’re into feeding the hungry, nurturing children and being a voice for the oppressed then swing past St Cuthbert’s sometime. You’ll be very welcome.

DIARY DATES

GODLY PLAY: Every Sunday @ 9am in the Parish Centre

MAINLY MUSIC: Resumes 24 October @ 9.30am in the Parish Centre

ST CUTHBERT’S YOUTH (SCY): Resumes 22 October @ 3.305.30 in the Parish Centre

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

The Darlington Club

A few well attended and fun nights took place at the Club this past month. Fish and Chips and Games are always popular and well attended even with the onset of winter.

By the time you receive this edition of the Review we would have held the AGM on 23rd June. Elected office bearers will be advised in the next Review.

Sue Lavell | Club President

Coming Events:

The Club opens at 6.30pm every second Friday at Darlington Lesser Hall. BYO drinks and nibbles.

June 30th Closed for long weekend

July 7th, 14th Closed for school holidays

July 21st Sundowner

July 28th Closed

August 4th Closed

August 11th Closed

August 4th Sundowner

August 12th Fundraiser for Robert Juniper Award for the Arts. Darlington Hall 7pm “An evening of acoustic blues” Featuring Dave Hole and Glen Whisson. $40/head, $35 for members. Secure your seats via Trybooking.

August 18th Fish and Chips

Contact Sue on 0439 273 213 | email oshadhi@iinet.net.au for details or Marg Barker on 0417 183 826 | email margaret@pmdwa.com

hear her delighting over her baby and cherishing the moment while speaking beautiful words of joy over her

The young baby and her mother were being captured on film in a moment of absolute delight. No words were needed, it was a textless message - the video spoke for itself I knew he sent it simply because he was captivated by his grandchild and he wanted to share his joy, and the joy was indeed shared by me.

As I watched I felt so much love for this child, a child I may never meet and may only come to know b snippets her grandfathe with me I loved that in h wanted to share some o found it an incredible p thought of as someon receiving a snippet of t beauty

This was such a small ca mother’s love which experienced daily and many different way cleaning, comforting a inconsolable child, feedin at all hours of the day and things a mother does loves and serves her chil captured on film or seen genuine connection and r the hard times and the go

As the video unfolded it of God's love for me, His child, and how He actively delights in me, and cherishes me, in much the same manner as what I had been watching His delight in me is so evident and I experience it all the time It has been there at all stages of my relationship with Him, while I was a young baby Christian right through my continued growth and maturity in connection with Him He is ever present, loving, cherishing, nurturing, shaping and changing me. He delights over me just as this Mum was delighting over her child. I know it is so because I see it, experience it and live it as do all His children

This would have captured another level of parental delight A man watching his daughter love and cherish his grandchild A man who stands as a Father to his adult daughter, delighting in her as well as delighting in his grandchild A man who displays and deepens the already beau tiful image of God as a Father. I have come to know this man because I was drawn to his wisdom and character and sought out his counsel because I had heard he has much to offer in his love of people and his wise ways of instruction. A man who I have come to respect, honour and love because of who he is - one of the wisest

Thinking on his character reminded me of God’s wisdom, because wisdom and this man go hand in hand. One of God's greatest provisions to His children is His supply of wisdom. Wisdom is something we should stand in awe of. Something we should seek for ourselves and seek out in others. You know those moments when someone speaks a wise word and you feel awe as their words inspire and bring understanding. It is like a little moment of WOW as you realise what has just been imparted and received. Wisdom is always like a little gift, something to actually be received. We should rightly be in awe of wisdom. To rebuke, brush off, despise or not even notice wisdom is lamentable. I have seen when someone has been in the presence of wise words and it has gone

One of God's greatest hopes for us is that we desire wisdom. He says if we desire it from Him we will receive it. By supplying wisdom God forms the thoughts and intents of a person's heart and fills them with understanding of who He is and how to best conduct oneself in this life. God won’t ever refuse offering His children wisdom because He knows that wisdom is a perfect way of equipping a person to become more like Himself. Wisdom transforms us to become people who carry the image of God, people who are equipped to live well and people who are enabled to equip discernment, protection, Wisdom is a to shape and equip us of life. It measure and it as there is always more of it to be received. espise wisdom simply because availability foolish thing to ill-equipped to Proverbs in the gift of a child of partake of His His wisdom the actions that forms us into His image.

The greatest thing I think the Bible says to God's children about wisdom is “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given him.” James 1:5.

Wisdom is a good, good gift that will be willingly supplied by God to His children, as He delights and cherishes them and wants them to ask for and desire it from Him, and He will supply it without measure or end.

Sandra Parish

Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides

Empowering girls to discover their potential as leaders of their world

The Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides recently had a guest speaker visit from local author Ash Harrier (S.D. Wasley). The girls enjoyed listening to Ash’s recounts from when she was a child and how she discovered she wanted to write fiction. They also learned more about what inspired the Alice England mysteries and how the characters were developed. They let their imaginations run wild, inventing their own mythical beings.

A question and answer session followed, with the girls learning about the process of writing and publishing a book. Perhaps we have some future authors in our unit! Our author workshop

was enabled by ‘Writing WA’s Love to Read Local Week and the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.’

The Girls Guides are excited about their Mexican themed sleepover at the hall towards the end of term.

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 0403 233 907 or enquire at Girl Guides WA.

Newburn Accounting & Tax

We are an accountancy firm based in Darlington, Western Australia. Located not far off Gt Eastern Hwy, We provide accountancy and tax management services to a range of businesses and individuals.

While we are proudly Hills based, our clientele ranges from the Swan Valley to the wheatbelt.

Our highly effective team of business specialists and service providers work with best practices and state-of-the-art solutions.

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It’s been a busy month for the group, with winter a great time for exploring and learning outdoors. We have so many great places to explore in the hills, and so much more fun with a friends! Recent adventures included bushwalking, mountain bike riding, and campfire cooking.

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+

Thank you Community Bank Mundaring

Our lovely tin hall in Darlington can get very hot in summer, and very chilly in the winter, so we’ve been planning for some time to give some more comfort and functionality to the hall for all the users with a reverse cycle air conditioner. We were very excited recently to have received a cheque from the Community Bank Mundaring grant to help us achieve this. Pictured here are Group Leader Kerry Duncan, Fundraising Coordinator Haylee Andrews, and branch manager Andrea Southam (plus some very happy other community group representatives)!

Adventures on the high seas!

One of our 15 years old Venturers, Josh has been invited to be a part of a nine day training voyage on the Leeuwin II from Freo to Exmouth. He is now on the training pathway to be a volunteer crew member, which has come about from a recent Scouts WA camp experience. Scouts is a great learning pathway, and provides many different opportunities.

Do you have memories of Scouting in Darlington?

We are approaching 100 years of there being a scout group in Darlington! If you have any memorabilia we could use, please get in touch with us.

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

 Joey Scouts (age 5-8)

 Scouts (age 11-14)

 Cub Scouts (age 8-11)

 Venturer Scouts (Age 14-18)

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

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

Friends of Darlington Station Reserve (FODS)

Such Beautiful Rain and such a lot of it!

Everything we do on the Station Reserve has been made easier for that rain in June: the hole digging, well some of the holes anyway from my observation of Graham with his pick axe, and the weeding in particular. We have planted many new plants around the Darlington Road/ Glen Road corner and hope they will give pleasure to those of you walking from the parking area to get coffee. We still have more to go but the weather is on our side at the moment.

As we continue to weed and mulch on the Reserve year on year we have noticed how many local species pop up once

Classifieds

conditions improve. We have a large number of Painted Lady Orchids coming up this year in areas not seen before and perhaps spread by mulch. Jam wattles pop up and so do many Red Gum seedlings of course. We have to watch for Eastern States Eucalyptus seedlings, Eastern States 'weedy' wattles and Brachychiton which out compete local species. Similarly we can learn by watching in our own gardens and work with nature not against it.

Seen on the reserve or nearby as I write:

Photo 1. Acacia Drummondii - such a showy small local wattle for planting on the reserve and useful also in our gardens.

Photo 2. Hovea Pungens. Every year I look out for the Hovea coming into flower at the start of our local wildflower season and we have lots on the reserve and in bush around Darlington. Great for our gardens as it seeds easily and multiples over the years.

Photo 3. Still flowering beautifully and a true Jarrah Forest local. Too good a photo to leave out FODS meet on 9th and 23rd of July and we will continue to plant and clear but will be mulching and weeding more too. Do join us from 8 to 10 am if you want to learn more about us or the reserve. You can contact Jane on 0477 987 048. See you sometime on the reserve, Diane.

WINE GLASS: Possibly a special one? Left at Darlington Hall after Save The Hills Concert on Saturday 10th June. Please ring Betty on 0408 912 101 to identify and recover…has been washed!!

GUS' GARDENING AND MAINTENANCE. Whippersnipping, pruning, small tree lopping, planting, hedging and yard clean up, etc. Free quotes. Phone or text me on 0439 979 504

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.

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.

(Left) Photo 1: Acacia Drummondii, (centre) Photo 2: Hovea Pungens, (right) Photo 3: Hibbertia Hypericoides.

Darlington Community Garden (DCG)

Cheers wonderful Community Garden friends

It’s Hills Wintertime; chilly winds, rainy days, creeks filling up sometimes rushing and rumbling along, other times playfully babbling and gurgling, puddles and wellies, and kids and muddy-glorious-mud.

There’s new life sprouting into carpets of weeds which sometimes seem like ‘jungles’, veggie and flower seedlings being planted and self-sown ones popping up here and there forecasting abundant food and flowers in the seasons ahead and not forgetting favourites for many; our heavily laden citrus trees and crackling warming fires.

And in pops our lovely Sue and asks – “Have you heard of smulching?” Affectionately known by many as Sue Sue or her new name of MAD Sue (MAD meaning Making A Difference), she’s such a wonderful asset to DCG and our Darlington village. No I haven’t heard of smulching. Please Sue, do tell.

So says Sue, it’s a combination of SMOTHERING and MULCHING using free, local AND readily available resources. It’s about SMULCHING vs MULCHING

Those annual winter weeds, as verdant as they are, are the bane of many people’s lives. Perhaps you’ve spent hours spreading a truckload of mulch over your weed crop – only to find a week later you’re back where you started with weeds happily popping up through the wood chips ... ”what to do, oh what to do”.

And many used black plastic sheeting or “weed mat” products underneath the mulch – yet neither of these methods worked very well AND they cost money!

The most economic and effective way to control your weeds is by SMULCHING them.

CALENDAR

Our 3rd Popular Kid’s Nature Play Day

A parent supervised event for children 2-12 years.

WHEN: School Holidays - Wed 5th July 10am-12pm

WHERE: In the Garden (weather permitting) and Pavilion undercover area

COST: $10 per family OR Psst again - annual membership fee of $20 gives access to all kid’s events for free so a great reason to join DCG.

Limited spaces may be available on the day for cash. Heaps of stuff happening including a range of nature based crafts and activities like mud play, nature art and a planting activity and lots of FuN FuN FuN. And fingers crossed building a campfire to make tasty treats (rain gods permitting).

Kate Herren 0452 644 248

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/darlingtoncommunity-garden-kids-club-july-nature-play-day

• To cover large areas with few existing plants use old, hessian backed carpet pieces preferably wool or wool blends

• To deal with smaller or more densely planted areas use thick wads of newspaper or cardboard and tuck them around your plants

• For best results use this technique in late Winter/very early Spring when the ground you are covering is at its wettest

• If you have already mulched and are looking at a lovely crop of weeds; don’t despair as you can “retro” smulch

Not convinced? Check out the areas in the village where Sue has or is using this technique:

• St Cuthberts Anglican Church verge area – triangle cnr Hillsden and Darlington Road was smulched using wads of newspaper; verge area along Darlington Road is a work in progress using old carpet.

• Darlington Liquor and Gourmet – garden area from the store towards the Old Bakery. Smulched in early Spring 2022 using wads of newspapers. Plantings there were watered TWICE only during Summer using “soakwell” technique.

• Verge area near the Wellness Centre (next to Post Office); footpath side was smulched; roadside = no treatment.

Sue is always happy to respond to questions - lennardsue@ gmail.com. She also offers home visits at your place (unlimited). Members of DCG no charge; non-members $20. Psst annual membership fee is $20 so a great reason to join.

In the DCGarden there’s been a big emphasis on companion planting this Autumn using methods taught by Christel and Charles from Wild Gaia Plants.

A no dig permaculture approach was used prior to topping with compost, cutting existing plants at their base, not disturbing the soil. The goal is for the soil to hold the water better next summer and be less hydrophobic. And yay planting is finally complete.

And the circle of life goes on in the garden in other ways with young John and Kady Yaxley welcoming beautiful first baby Arthur as well as recently mourning one of our village Elders and Sally Herzfeld’s husband, Tom. Love and blessings to both families.

Plant and Produce Swap and Yarning around the Fire – Sunday 2 JULY 3pm BRING produce, seeds, cuttings, plants, herbs, jams, chutney etc and a drink and plate to share.

(From left): Kady and John, the cutest baby Arthur, Tom and Sally Herzfeld.

Mundaring | Midland Junction Arts Centre

Mundaring Arts Centre | 7190 Great Eastern Hwy (corner Nichol Street) 9295 3991 | mundaringartscentre.com.au

Wednesday - Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am - 3pm

If you haven't already had the chance, the popular Genius Loci, Spirit of Place from artists Shelley Cowper, Haya Hagit Cohen and Elmari Steyn is set to end on 16 Julyin Gallery 1. This exploration of feelings and emotions, heart and mind and the spiritual connection to place are communicated through traditional printmaking techniques and mixed media works. Also featured at Mundaring Arts Centre is Barbara Gell’s Into the Gully. Barbara captures feelings and impressions of being in the Perth hills’ Whistlepipe Gully, and a sense of place through her paintings and drawings. Geometric structure forms the

scaffolding on which a variety of marks reintroduce the tangle of natural forms.

Coming up:

Opening 5 August, Hand in Hand showcases recent visual art graduates from WA, focusing on the relationship between artists and mentors and how educators shape their skills and narratives, while also highlighting contemporary arts practices. The public program explores materiality, circular artistic processes, and the immersive connection between artists and different mediums.

Midland Junction Arts Centre | 276 Great Eastern Hwy (corner Cale St) 9250 8062 | midlandjunctionartscentre.com.au

Wednesday - Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday 11am - 3pm

The Galleries are currently closed for a lighting upgrade however there are plenty of exhibits to explore through out the centre

Our Artists in Residence are in the space until 15 July:

Studio 1 Kristen Brownfield | Almost Nothing (visual)

Studio 2 Gok-Lim Finch | Dream Pool Press (storytelling and zine workshops)

Veranda Martien Van Zuilen | Material Confluence (fibre art)

Stop in during our open hours to see these artists at work.

Coming up:

The Middle Glazes Intensive Workshop for Ceramicists with Matt Katz (USA) | 17 – 21 July Visit website for more info and to book midlandjunctionartscentre.com.au

Barbara Gell, Whistlepipe Pool (detail), 2021, oil on canvas, 76 x 121 cm. Image courtesy of the artist.

Persie Toindepi, From My Mother’s Mother, 2022, copper wire, dimensions variable. Photograph courtesy of the artist.

Shire of Mundaring Library Service

To Dwell in Unity

by Dr Chris Bell

Author Talk

Boya Community Centre, Monday 24 July, 10.30am-11.45am

What is now the Shire of Mundaring began as the Greenmount Roads Board in 1903 housed in what is now the Mt Helena Veterinary Clinic. The year 2021 marked 150 years of local government in WA, from the earliest days of the gold rush, through two world wars, the Great Depression, and forwards to present day. To Dwell in Unity by Dr Chris Berry commemorates the 150th anniversary of local government in WA. Dr Berry will draw on a rich history of characters and events across these 150 years, including some of the Shire of Mundaring’s unique stories along the way. Hear the personal stories of some of the characters, who for better or worse, have been part of the remarkable story of local government and Western Australian history. Bookings essential at https://240723b.eventbrite.com.au.

The Nature of the Jarrah Forest

by Eric McCrum and Janine McCrum

Boya Community Centre, Monday 31 July, 10.30am-12pm

Eric McCrum, well-known naturalist and teacher, and Janine McCrum, environmental artist and photographer, have collaborated to produce a beautiful guide describing the plants and animals that occur in the Jarrah forest, giving a glimpse into the complexity of the relationships within it. Eric and Janine will be interviewed by writer Elizabeth Lewis. Bookings essential at https://310723b.eventbrite.com.au

Hearing Australia Hearing Checks

Boya Library, Thursday 29 June 9.30am-12.45pm Mundaring Library, Thursday 30 June, 9.30am-12.45pm

Could you be missing any of the sounds you love? Hearing Australia will be conducting free hearing checks at the libraries. If you are concerned about your or a loved one’s hearing, please join us and take the first step toward rediscovering the sounds you love! Visit hearing.com.au to learn more. Although bookings are not necessary and walk-ins are welcome, we strongly encourage you to call Boya Library on 9290 6755 or Mundaring Library on 9290 6780. Please note a hearing check is a screening that helps identify people that may have hearing loss and is not the same as a diagnostic hearing assessment.

Games Club for Children at Boya Library

Wednesdays 3.45pm4.45pm, Boya Library

Join in this fun after-school activity in Term Three! Games Club is a table-top board games club for children aged 10 to 14 years. The program runs during the school term. When a child is registered, it is for the whole of the term. Contact Boya Library on 9290 6755 or email gills@mundaring.wa.gov.au for information and to book. (Children aged under 12 years must be accompanied by an adult.)

Library Home Services

Did you know our libraries offer a free home delivery service to library members living in the Shire of Mundaring who are unable to visit the libraries due to mobility or illness?

The service can be provided on a temporary or permanent basis. You may be recuperating from an operation or illness for a short time, or you may have long-term mobility and other reasons which mean the service is required on a permanent basis. Once you are signed up for the service, volunteers and staff will select items based on your interests and deliver them to your door.

If you would like to know more, or would like help with applying for the service, please call the libraries on 9290 6780 (Mundaring) or 9290 6755 (Boya). You can also contact us by email at mills@mundaring. wa.gov.au (Mundaring) or gills@ mundaring.wa.gov.au (Boya).

Shire of Mundaring Libraries Temporary Closure

Thursday 6 July 2023 9am-2pm

Shire of Mundaring Libraries at Boya and Mundaring will be closed temporarily on Thursday 6 July from 9am to 2pm to allow for all-staff training. The after-hours chutes will be available at both libraries for returning library items until the libraries reopen at 2pm. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience.

Story Time and Baby Rhyme take a break

Story Time and Baby Rhyme will take a break over the school holidays. The last rhyme and story time for Term 2 will be on Friday 30 June. Sessions resume from Tuesday 18 July.

N S S P PIIR RIIT T

Grandmaster

Low 9th Dan Chief Instructor/International

Justin Low 5th Dan World Medallist/Aust Coach Jesse Low 4th Dan Instructor

HELENA COLLEGE

GETTING READY FOR CHANGE

For some, the ‘tween’ years can be challenging to negotiate - both for young people and their parents. The pre-adolescent stage, defined loosely as the years between eight or nine to twelve, is when change is a given, but the time frame for those changes is not!

Children in this age range may be growing and developing rapidly. They may experience changes in height and weight, while others may not do so for a while yet.

Their emotional development will be shifting too, as they develop their sense of self, their emotional intelligence, and begin to navigate more complex social relationships. On a cognitive level, they will start building on their reasoning skills and showing an interest in more advanced concepts and ideas.

It is also the time when students may begin using technology more frequently - and more independently. They will also be encountering more challenging academic content. They are likely to be more aware of global issues, and will be trying to figure out where they fit in the world. It is a lot to deal with!

At Helena College, our Year 4 and 5 program is designed to support your child and your family in coping with change, as well as preparing them for the opportunities and the challenges of Year 6 and beyond. Children have the greatest chance of success in negotiating the tween years when they feel supported at home and at school.

Helena College’s Year 4 and 5 program is carefully developed to not just cover the required content of the Western Australian curriculum, but also to provide an environment in which children can thrive. For example, the ‘toolbox’ we provide our with Year 4 and 5 students includes (but is not limited to):

• opportunities to develop and consolidate friendships in a supportive setting, with just two classes at each year level in Years 4 and 5

• weekly class activities with our College psychologist covering topics such as friendship, resilience, selfesteem, emotional regulation and more

• learning assessment and evaluation of students to identify and respond to areas of need

• individual learning and enrichment programs for students of all abilities who require extra support or extension

• tools to develop their organisation skills, build good study habits and self-management to prepare for more challenging school work in later years

• development of leadership skills through our House Captains, Ministers and Aussie of the Month leadership programs

• access to the Electives and Camp programs as well as unique classes such as weekly cooking lessons

• develop familiarity with the environment and staff at the Glen Forrest Campus through occasional whole school events, and making use of the facilities at Glen Forrest for interhouse sport, performances and more - taking some of the mystery out of Senior School well before it starts.

We also work closely with parents, arranging regular parent-teacher conferences and offering parent information evenings on a variety of topics, such as social media and consent education. We firmly believe that we need to partner with parents to help create the best possible outcomes for our students.

Enrolling your child for Year 4 or 5 also guarantees entry to Year 6 at our Glen Forrest Campus, which is traditionally our largest intake year. For more information on our Year 4 and 5 program, or to book a tour of our Junior School, please visit our website at www.helenacollege.wa.edu.au

Early Learning at Darlington Primary School

Kindergarten and pre-primary are very important years of both informal and formal learning. At Darlington Primary School, students have a blend of formal learning experiences and careful constructed informal learning experiences. Autumn has been a recent theme, with a variety of experiential activities on offer.

Students recently studied the book, Rosie’s Walk. A community walk around Darlington and through the school was organised

Darlington Primary School

so that students could gain great ideas for innovating their own story.

Interested in knowing more about Early Learning at Darlington Primary School? Contact the school to organise a visit.

The school is now taking expressions of interest for Kindergarten 2024. Applications close Friday 21 July for children born between 1 July 2019 – 30 June 2020.

Treetops | A Montessori and International Baccalaureate School

Children’s House Community Helpers

The past few weeks have been very eventful for the students in Children’s House as they delved into the fascinating world of community helpers. We have had some amazing experiences:

Andrew‘s Helicopter Pilot Visit:

Students were astounded by the captivating video showcasing Andrew’s role as a helicopter pilot for the Royal Flying Doctors. The video depicted a remarkable landing at Fiona Stanley Hospital, transporting a patient all the way from Rottnest!

The children were particularly amazed by Andrew's special helmet, designed to cancel out the deafening noise of the helicopter. They were also astonished to learn that these extraordinary machines cost a staggering $10 million! As a souvenir, the children were given a paper plane and activity books from the Royal Flying Doctors to take home.

Captain Karin’s Pilot Visit:

Karin, a pilot with Qantas, shared her captivating experiences, giving the students a glimpse into her profession. The highlight of her visit was an incredible video she presented, showcasing her plane taking off and landing. The students were captivated by the demonstration of how the wings of a plane employ force to achieve lift-off. As an engaging activity, the students were encouraged to fold their very own super-duper paper planes to test this theory.

Will’s Beekeeper Visit:

Felicia’s St. John Ambulance Visit:

Felicia from St. John Ambulance paid us a visit to teach the students about essential burn safety measures. The valuable lesson included the importance of cooling burns with cold running water for 20 minutes (which is about the length of watching three Bluey shows!).

Additionally, the students were educated on the significance of dialling 000 in the event of an emergency. We bid Felicia farewell amidst the excitement of sirens blaring. Parents may want to reinforce these lessons by helping their children memorise their street address, as it can prove invaluable in emergencies.

Will, a dedicated and enthusiastic beekeeper, came to share his knowledge about bees with the students. Recognising the crucial role of bees as community helpers, we wanted the students to understand their significance.

Will went the extra mile and built a plexiglass case around a beehive frame, ensuring the students could safely observe the bees' intricate work without the fear of being stung. The students were captivated by the sight of bees buzzing and tirelessly collecting nectar. They relished the opportunity to taste fresh honeycomb, a sweet reward for their curiosity!

We have been thrilled to witness the enthusiasm and curiosity our students have displayed throughout these interactive sessions. Such experiences broaden their understanding of the world around them and inspire them to dream big. Thank you to all of our community helpers.

Silver Tree Steiner

As the Steiner Main Lesson curriculum follows the very specific stages of child development, so also does the Music curriculum. Engaging the soul activities of thinking, feeling and willing in the child, the study and experience of the various elements in music arouse and cultivate the very forces necessary to be able to meet the challenges of the world with enthusiasm and confidence.

The melody of a piece of music can effortlessly engage the thinking of a child when a tune gets stuck in their head. The heart forces are moved when they hear harmony, and then they can’t help but feel the music. Lastly, when a child hears a piece of music with a strong rhythm, they tap their foot to the beat moving their limbs. Music at Silver Tree awakens and nurtures the deep inner life of the child.

Singing is the central musical element in Steiner Education. From the first day of kindergarten to the closing ceremony of graduation, singing at Silver Tree forms a basis of inner peace and community strength and is integral to learning, communicating, and celebrating.

If you have ever had the opportunity to walk through the school during the day you might hear the kindergarten children singing the bread-making song, or the Class 2 children skip counting the times tables into memory or the upper primary choir joyfully singing a seasonal song in preparation for a festival.

In the early years, songs may be spontaneous melodic greetings at the children’s arrival, chanting instructions for their main lesson work, or a calling to attention. In later years, music is studied as an art form.

In the lower primary years, songs are learned aurally (by ear) but after Class 3 a more formal study of musical principles begins with reading music and playing songs with multiple parts. Please enjoy the photographs below to give you a snapshot of music lessons

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything” – Plato

Parkerville Steiner College | A Compelling Alternative for High School in the Perth Hills

Platonic Solids

Class Eight have just completed the Platonic Solids - Geometry Main Lesson, scrambling to finish their work to the exacting standards that Plato would expect. To work out of geometric relationships without relying upon measurement is to immerse oneself into the true nature of the forms according to Plato. It is an ancient way that retains the soul and spirit of our relationship with the world around us.

Instead of giving the students a photocopy of a net of one of the five solids, to simply cut out and assemble, the students had to grapple with experimenting, designing, and creating their own net from scratch. In this process, the form comes alive from

within their own beings. They learn to have confidence in their own capacity to think and create.

The class started with simple 2D forms within a circle and finished with 3D complex interrelated duals. Along the way, they designed their own tessellation posters, inspired by M.C. Escher. The students also brought their will into making and transforming clay models into their related dual shapes. They also did this with their own bodies in activities and games.

It was a privilege to bring this to questioning and open minds.

John Bluntschli | Geometry Teacher

Darlington Junior Football Club

This month has been an eventful one for DJFC. Our Auskickers enjoyed taking part in the annual Superhero round. This initiative began about five years ago to raise awareness and funds for The Kids Cancer Project.

This round has become a club favourite and has grown in popularity with clubs all around Western Australia. Who wouldn't want to dress up as a superhero and play footy? Whilst we already know our coaches are superheroes it was great to see them dressed up too ... even if there were undies worn on the outside!

Our team and individual club photos have been taken and coaches and team managers will be distributing them amongst their teams in the coming weeks. Thanks again to Midland Photography for their great work each year capturing our Bushrangers looking their finest in the black and white.

The DJFC committee and many of our members held a Bunnings Sausage Sizzle recently to help raise funds for the club. Thanks to those who came down and purchased a sausage to support our club. We sold over one thousand sausages and raised some super important funds. These funds will help us purchase new equipment for the club.

Thank you to the volunteers who came down and did a shift slinging snaggers or slicing seven million onions ... many of whom have not touched sausage since. Thank you!

You will have also noticed that the club recently has some merchandise for sale including drink bottles, kid's polos and adult's shirts. There are some still available to purchase from the canteen. We also eagerly await the shipment of beanies that will be dropping soon. Perfect for those icy Saturday and Sunday mornings!

3 Craigie Place, Mundaring

William Shakespeare