Darlington Review • Vol.63 No.7 • August 2023

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

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EDITORIAL:

Review Manager: Gabby Houldsworth advertising@darlingtonreview.com.au | 0408 944 737

Editor: Chris Durrant editorial@darlingtonreview.com.au

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

EDITORIAL DEADLINE:

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

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

ADVERTISING:

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

DISPLAY ADVERTISING RATES:

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

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

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

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

DARLINGTON REVIEW WEBSITE: www.darlingtonreview.com.au

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

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

Chris Durrant | Editor

My wife, Shirley, and I attended the Margaret River Readers and Writers Festival recently, always an entertaining event in a very beautiful part of WA. One of the people we listened to was a chap that I’m sure many of you will know of, Hugh Mackay. Hugh is a psychologist, social researcher and the author of no fewer than 19 books, fiction and non-fiction. He wrote a regular newspaper column for many years and you may well have seen and/or heard him on your radio or TV.

His latest book is “The Kindness Revolution” and it certainly struck a chord with me. In essence he argues that we can all do our bit to make our society and the land in which we live a better place just by trying to be kind to everyone. To quote from the book “Revolutions never start at the top. If we dare to dream of a more loving country - kinder, more compassionate, more cooperative, more respectful, more inclusive, more egalitarian, more harmonious, less cynical - there's only one way to start turning that dream into a reality: each of us must live as if this is already that country.”

Not only should we be doing everything ourselves to be kinder – smile at people, lend a hand if a neighbour needs it, help a nervous person cross the road, laugh at jokes even if you’ve heard them before – but we should, if we are in a position to do so, encourage others, especially the young, to get in the habit of acting likewise. Let me tell you a personal story.

In the days of my youth, some of my favourite reading was the works of A.A.Milne. These included the Pooh books, of course, well known to all, but also a couple of collections of quirky verse for children called ‘When we were very young’ and ‘Now we are six’, both illustrated by Ernest Shepard who did the pictures for Pooh. They were given to me by my Mum before I could read myself, and I loved them. They still sit on our shelf and occasionally I take them down and leaf through them. Despite having been written nearly 100 years ago for children, most of the poems are still charming and some really funny. One in particular is called ‘Lines and Squares’ and tells of the masses of bears who lurk round the corner of the streets of London, waiting to eat those who tread on the lines

between the paving stones. The narrator knows this, however, and never steps on a line.

And it’s ever so jolly to call out “Bears, Just watch me walking in all the squares!”

Now at the time when I read this first, probably about the age of the title of the second book, I had no personal experience of the streets of London. The only city I could recall having visited, Nairobi, certainly had no bears, nor any other animals, lying in wait for those who stepped on the lines. I cannot imagine that I actually thought this was real and it wasn’t too long before I was able to see for myself that it was not. However, to this day, if I am walking on a pavement with lines or paving stones, I will still, if I can possibly do so, avoid stepping on lines. The point of this slightly bizarre insight into my personal hang-ups is that the habits we acquire when we are young, even if they are quite irrational, are apt to stay with us for a very long time, perhaps forever. If we can develop a beneficial habit – for example kindness – in our early years, we will probably stay that way, to the benefit of ourselves, those around us, and the general community. Perhaps this is a message we should be giving to our children and grandchildren, both in what we say and what we do, so that kindness for them can become as much ingrained as my (totally futile) reluctance to walk on lines in the pavement.

Incidentally, you may ask why this paragraph is preceded by a picture of the grey fan-tail? Well, I don’t know whether it is a particularly kind little bird, although it wouldn’t at all surprise me if it is. However, it is one of my favourite wild creatures, and I am always happy to give it publicity!

Bears by EH Shepard.

Vale Tom

As mentioned in the DHG notes in the July Review, Darlington recently lost one of its longest-serving and most distinguished citizens with the passing of Tom Herzfeld. Tom had reached the considerable age of 87 years and died in his Darlington home with his family around him. I am indebted to Tom’s eldest son, John, for the information and the pictures in this article.

Born in Germany, Tom was still a toddler when his family fled the country of his birth to escape the Nazi pogrom on the Jews (Tom’s dad, Hans, was Jewish) and settled in Thailand where he spent his early years. At the age of 12 he was sent, like so many children of Europeans resident in South-East Asia, to Australia to be educated. In his case, this took him to Guildford Grammar School, beginning an association with WA that lasted the rest of his life. It must have been a huge cultural shock to Tom, coming from a German family and an Asian environment to postwar Australia, but he met the challenge with the enthusiasm and determination that he brought to everything else in his life. Long-time Darlington resident Geoff Wheeler remembers with great affection the years he shared with Tom at Guildford (Geoff was also a contemporary at Darlington Primary School of a little girl called Alison Gare who was to become very important to Tom some years later).

Tom was a great success at Guildford Grammar, ending up as a School Prefect, Captain of Henn’s House (one of three boarding houses in the days when the majority of students were boarders) and Captain of Boats (i.e. of rowing).

The comments of the Headmaster, Mr Thwaites, on Tom’s achievement form at his school leaving in December 1953 said “A conscientious and fairly able boy, who has had a very full and successful school life. He has always taken his responsibilities seriously, and set a good standard of general behaviour. He is thoroughly reliable and hardworking.” Tom’s abilities were probably in fact rather more than ‘fair’, as he succeeded in obtaining a bursary and a cadetship from the Public Works Department which enabled him to enrol in an engineering degree at UWA. On graduation from university, Tom spent several years working as an engineer for the Public Works Department in the developing Northwest of this State (as an aside, the country I grew up in had a body with exactly the same name, evidently with the same sort of responsibilities, more usually known as the PWD which the cynics would tell you stood for ‘Potholes Widened and Deepened’). During his time in

Port Hedland, Tom had an encounter that changed his life, a meeting with a pretty young teacher called Alison (a.k.a. Sally) Gare. It wasn’t long before they realised that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together and they were married in St Cuthbert’s (Sally being from an old Darlington family) in 1962. (If you haven’t read the book ‘Outback Teacher’, Sally’s fascinating and inspiring story of her experiences as a teacher in the far north in the 1950s and early 1960s, you should do so!)

For the first few years of their married life they were constantly on the move – Tom had jobs in 16 different places over six years – but once John, the eldest of their three children, was of school age they decided the time had come to settle down and they built the house in Darlington where they have lived ever since. From the start Tom was involved in community affairs and he was Sally’s partner in the establishment of the Helena School in 1972. When we arrived in Darlington in 1975 it was soon after the conclusion of one of the great local controversies in which the community, spearheaded by Tom, succeeded in thwarting a plan to build a tavern in Darlington. On the back of this, Tom obtained election to the Shire Council, and served for a while as President before an even higher calling was heard and he became our local member of parliament, a job he discharged with his usual diligence for six years.

Tom never lost his enthusiasm for community work and was able to indulge this passion with even more dedication after his retirement from paid employment. The Helena School Council, the Australian Shareholders’ Association and the Bassendean Tennis Club were just a few of the groups that had the benefit of Tom’s wisdom and diligence.

Ever energetic and loving physical challenges, he took up running in the Woodbridge Park Run at the age 81. Until his final months he showed a level of fitness that would have

►►► Continued on page 5

GGS schoolboy.

been remarkable in a man several decades younger and was an inspiration to many of the younger runners. He ended up four runs short of the 250 milestone runs, however, those four runs were completed by his friends at the Woodbridge event in memory of his inspiring friendship.

He loved travelling and particularly adored Asian food, perhaps not surprising, given his early upbringing.

Family, though, was always Tom’s priority, and he just loved them all. In a letter to one of his grandchildren just few weeks before his death he wrote that he was overwhelmed by her love, indeed by the love demonstrated by the whole family. He ended by saying “When I finally go, I will leave a very happy person.” Surely we would all like to be able to say that when our time comes!

Chairperson

It is one of the characteristics of folk who choose to live in Darlington that they are usually the kind of people who are apt to put up their hands for some sort of community service or office when asked. Not many get sucked in so deeply and swiftly, though, as Melissa Clarke.

When Melissa and her husband Chris decided late last year to move from South Guildford into the hills to get a little bit closer to country living, she probably didn’t expect to be moving into the local limelight quite so quickly. However, her friend Julie Stuurstraat asked her whether she might be able to take over her job as Advertising Manager of the Review. Melissa had no previous experience of that sort of thing, but she is not the sort of person who lets a little thing like temporary ignorance stand in her way so she said ‘yes’. Three months later and – so far, so good!

Apart from her duties at the Review, Melissa has been helping Chris with extensive works on their very nice house and garden, which included building a shed for her to work in. She has always had an artistic bent (she went to art school in her youth) and just loves any sort of creativity whether it is making costumes (she has already been called in to lend a hand at Marloo Theatre) or – her real love - making furniture. She has been doing this for several years now and I think you would agree from the pictures that her products are spectacular. She

mostly makes to order although she does occasionally produce furniture on spec for sale in arty shops or on line. Though chairs are her speciality, she has constructed couches and tables and has also done a good deal of furniture restoration. With all the work on the house and the temporary absence of a shed, her furniture work has been somewhat curtailed in past months but she is now ready to roll and starting to build things again. And, if that wasn’t enough of a creative outlet, she has recently begun oil painting for which I can say, from personal observation, she obviously has considerable talent.

It certainly seems to me that Melissa and Chris will, indeed already have, fit seamlessly into Darlington. She was born in Victoria (which we can forgive as she, or rather her parents, had the good sense to move West when she was quite young) and met Chris, a Brit by birth, in Darwin when they were both wandering around Australia. They have three adult children, one still living at home, and obviously love the sort of life that is on offer here (Chris is a keen paddler who has competed in no less than 10 Avon descents). We shall be seeing plenty of them in the years to come. And if you are interested in her chairs or any other furniture project, contact her on Instagram at Design.Intervention, email Design.Intervention4@gmail. com or phone 0423 883 030.

Some of Melissa’s work.

Peace Together

We shall be celebrating the UN International Day of Peace on the afternoon of Sunday 17th September and, once again, the organiser of our celebration, the indefatigable Sally Herzfeld, is putting together a ‘Kids Care’ booklet containing articles, pictures, poems from children on the theme of peace. A picture of a previous year’s booklet is pictured below.

Have you heard kids (four to 12 year old) arguing or fighting lately? How was this difference of opinion solved? Could they write or draw or make a comic or a poem or song or illustrate it in some way that could be sent as an article for volume 3 of our local KIDS CARE booklet?

It would need to be sent to Sally Herzfeld before August 25th, earlier if possible. The book will be published in time for the Peace Day celebration in Darlington Hall on 17th September. Any person or group who would like to do an item on that afternoon would be most welcome.

Please send articles or let Sally know about performances by emailing alisonherzfeld@gmail.com

The Reviews they are a-changing

Those of you who read the inside front cover of the Review (can you do so easily? Is the type too small? Any suggestions for improvement?) will have noticed quite a few changes at the bottom of the page in recent months.

The Editor, of course, changes quite regularlyme this month, Sarah Brookes next month - the Production Manager is Antoinette Boyd (taken over from Dave Taylor about this time last year), and Melissa Clarke, as mentioned on page five has received the Advertising Manager baton from Julie Stuurstraat. The one constant is the amazing Betty Pitcher as Business Manager, although if somebody reading this who has some accounting/IT abilities would be able to volunteer as a back-up to Betty on the rare occasions when she is away, that would be much appreciated. Just contact the editorial or business email addresses shown on said inside cover.

A significant recent addition to the team has been Gabby Houldsworth. Most of you will be familiar with Gabby who has been prominent on the Ratepayers Association and the Darlington Arts Festival, to name just a couple of the organisations she is a part of, as well as acting as back-up Advertising Manager for the Review. From next month Gabby will be the Review Manager, dealing with any queries and issues that, at the moment, tend to get channelled to the Editor, as well as doing any liaison and co-ordination necessary between the other members of the Review team. Welcome aboard Gabby!

One important task is the maintenance of the Darlington Village website, handled for some time by the talented Colette Murray. When she had to return to England, she handed over the reins of this particular horse to Production Manager Antoinette.

Mainly voluntary organisations like the Darlington Review rely on all sorts of people to do little tasks that keep the wheels turning and these people are not always recognised. The Review committee (and especially Betty) would like me to acknowledge the work of Amelia Sonnekus who helps with the monthly distribution of Reviews to libraries and other places we supply apart from Darlington residents. Good on ya, Amelia!

Disclaimer

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.

Gabby Houldsworth

Cole and Antoine.

Another issue discussed at some length at the last DRRA meeting was the Darlington Locality Plan. This was produced in 2019 by a sub-committee of DRRA consisting of several very prominent and respected Darlington residents, Poul Dahl, Gail Gregson, Peter Horobin, then Councillor Eva Marjanovic and Sarah Thornton-Smith. It was an update of previous plans, then called ‘Precinct Plans’ dating from the 1980s and 1990s and, as stated in the preamble, “Darlington’s natural and cultural environment reflects the rich and varied heritage of Darlington and this plan lays out the vision to both protect and enhance our community.”

Produced after several years of intense research and community consultation, the plan, unlike its predecessors, was to apply to the whole Darlington area rather than just the central part. Illustrated with photos by the late, great Richard Woldendorp, the plan makes fascinating reading and you can find it on the Darlington Village site at https://www.darlingtonvillage. org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Darlington-Locality-Plan-

Trick or treat?

Halloween is a largely American custom that has spread around the world in recent years. It involves children wandering around their neighbourhood, often dressed in scary costumes, demanding sweets from the residents in return for not subjecting them to some sort of disagreeable ‘trick’ – a kind of amiable blackmail. Unbeknown to me (it never seems to have travelled up the hill to our part of Darlington) this has been going on in our village for a good while, though on a fairly small and manageable scale.

All this changed last year when promotion of the event resulted in a huge influx of people on 31st October from outside Darlington. This led to a huge increase in traffic, a good deal of disruption to the lives of some of our residents, and even reported intimidating behaviour from visiting teenagers whose treat demands were not met. The issue was the subject of discussion at the last Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association community meeting. It would seem that many, especially younger people, enjoy the experience, but most recognise that it needs some sort of management. But what?

Oct-2019.pdf Unfortunately one crucial thing had changed between the time the sub-committee began their work and the date when their labours brought forth the final plan. Previously, local authorities had a good deal of influence on planning decisions and consequently would feel obliged to some extent to consult and abide by community wishes. All that was changed by the State government in 2017 when modifications to the regulations meant that most of the discretion in relation to planning has now been given to the WA Planning Commission.

The extent to which they will be influenced by local wishes is unknown: one suspects it will not be great. This is not to say that our locality plan is valueless. It may still be of use in informing new residents of what has been expected in the past and, to the limited extent that the Shire has planning discretion, it may still be used by them as a guide. Anyway, have a read of the plan. Does it fit in with your idea of what Darlington should be? What would you want to see kept, what changed? If you have strong views, come along to the next DRRA meeting (10th August) and voice them.

And by whom? It would be nice to go back to our gentle little festival but that seems unlikely – that cat (or should it be ‘bat’?) is well out of the bag. It will no doubt be the subject of further debate between now and the end of October. If you have views on the subject, especially if you have some helpful suggestions that could mitigate its undesirable effects, let the Ratepayers’ Association know.

It’s been an exciting start to winter at playgroup: we will be getting a brand new, secure fence thanks to grants from Lotterywest and the Shire of Mundaring.

Darlington Family Playgroup has been providing a safe and supportive environment for very young children and their parents since 1970. We offer a supportive learning and play environment for young children to build social skills and friendships with peers, and a supportive community network for parents.

environment for parents to let the children loose while enjoying a cuppa and a catch -up with other local parents!

Playgroup is suitable for children from age 0–5 years and their grown-ups. Please contact us via our Facebook page or email darlingtonfamilyplaygroup @hotmail.com.

Darlington Family Playgroup provides a naturebased play area with a huge sand pit, cubbies, swings, a teepee, a vegetable patch and outdoor toys from our toy shed.

Our fencing upgrade will ensure we can make the most of our outdoor play area and provide a relaxing environment for parents to let the children loose while enjoying a cuppa and a catch-up with other local parents!

Playgroup is suitable for children from age 0–5 years and their grown-ups. Please contact us via our Facebook page or email darlingtonfamilyplaygroup@hotmail.com.

The Darlington History Group’s longest-running and greatest project looks ready to come to fruition with the $152,000 grant they have received from Lotterywest to construct their Heritage Trail through the heart of the village. Together with grants from the Shire, the Heritage Council and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries and their own fund-raising, this is going to enable a start to be made on the 2.5 km Heritage Walk Trail through central Darlington. Details in the DHG notes. This amazing project is the culmination of several years of planning, consultation and design, for which Cliff Burns, Val Shiell, Lyn Myles and many others at the DHG are to be warmly congratulated. If you want to find out all about the Trail go to http://dhg.org.au/projects.shtml#

DARLINGTON HERITAGE WALK TRAIL – CENTRAL VILLAGE AREA

Echoes from the chamber

Deputy Shire President Paige McNeil represented us at the National General Assembly of local governments in Canberra recently which she found interesting and inspiring. It is hoped that this will result in larger and better-directed Federal funding for local government.

The Shire is also reviewing the system of verge collections –should they continue with the present system of collecting from us on set days once a year, or should we move to a more individualised system, even collection by request? No decision yet! Incidentally, this year’s verge collection for Darlington will be on September 4th, so be prepared!

Big news from the Shire this month is that a replacement for CEO Jonathan Throssell has been appointed and should take up his position w.e.f. 2nd October. He is Jason Whiteaker who has, for the past 10 years, been the CEO of the Shire of Northam and before that worked for a long time at Collie in several positions, ending up as CEO. Council was especially impressed with his commitment to environmental sustainability and his desire to consult the local community. I have no doubt that there will be more on Jason in future Reviews.

We wish Jonathan well in his new position down in East Fremantle. It is astonishing to reflect that he has been CEO for no less than 18 years, following on from his equally long-serving predecessor, Max Williams. Obviously being CEO of the Shire of Mundaring is not too disagreeable!

Well, that’s it from me for another month. In the chair for September will be local resident and journo Sarah Brookes, so you will be in good hands.

Meanwhile, enjoy if you can the freshness of a WA winter (grandson who lives in Glen Forrest told us when he called by this morning that he had ice on his windscreen when he set off!). Even when it’s cold, though, the countryside is very beautiful when the sun is out, and the wattles have started with their glorious yellow blooms. Not all the wattles we see, of course, are native to this State and therefore approved by the purists. This one, however, definitely is – Drummond’s Wattle!

Enjoy!

Got my number?

You will have seen numbers like this one on cars around the village. Begun as a fund-raiser for Darlington Concerts (hence the musical note motif), they have since been taken over by the Darlington Sports and Recreation Association (DaSRA). If you would like one on your car, contact Geoff Barker of DaSRA at geoffbarker52@gmail.com

Not only would you be nailing your Darlington colours to the mast, you would be supporting a worthy cause (the Community Pavilion) which still needs funding.

WHAT'S ON

10th August DRRA community meeting – Lesser Hall

7.30 p.m.

12th August Live at the Hall – Dave Hole & Glen Whisson perform in aid of the Robert Juniper Award for the Arts (see ad in this edition)

17th August Schools concert, also in aid of RJAA, at Eastern Hills SHS auditorium

19th August Celebration of 100th Anniversary of the Hall – at the Hall! Doors open 2.30, formalities & entertainment begin 2.45.

27th August Darlington Chamber Music Concert 4 at the Hall – Knox, Kodaly, Mahler & Brahms

30th Sept Closing date for applications for the Robert Juniper Award for the Arts (see ad in this edition)

Chris Durrant

Jason Whiteaker.

Their Place: Betty Pitcher and Peter Edwards

A recent gathering on Darlington’s Station Reserve honoured the outstanding contribution of Betty Pitcher and Peter Edwards – two long-term locals who have been Honorary Auditors to countless organisations. The Darlington Review and Friends of Darlington Station came together to say “thank you” to both for decades of much appreciated volunteering. Trea Wiltshire, the Review Editor through much of this time, was there to acknowledge their contribution. In 1983, a few years after we settled in Darlington, I was summoned by Postmaster Ian Sixsmith – a man of military bearing to whom one did not say ‘No!’ I was told the Review’s editor had left and, as I was the only journalist in town, the mantle of editor had fallen to me … and, of course, I said Yes! I inherited a wonderful team, the outspoken Audrey Ford who printed the Review on a roneo machine in her garage, ad man Stuart Lee who handled the ads in the small black-andwhite magazine, and the genial, silver-haired Peter Graystone (Business Manager), another military man, who sported long khaki shorts and knee-high socks and who kept all the Review receipts on the spare room bed, so if the window was open and the easterly bowled in, they occasionally scattered far and wide

across the house! So, the final member of the team, Honorary Auditor Peter Edwards, occasionally faced challenges!

Peter Edwards was quite a high-profile person who insisted on keeping a low profile. He had his own chartered accountancy business, was passionate about sports – including rugby, kayaking, Hash Harriers - and loved nothing better than heaving a rucksack onto his back for a challenging hike in Darlington or the Himalayas. And he and Holly had many children and now grandchildren – and it’s lovely to welcome some of them here today.

Because of his accounting skills, Peter was much in demand by local clubs, and he shared multiple requests with our other guest of honour, Betty Pitcher. If Peter kept a low-profile, my impression was that Betty was simply everywhere – extending the tiny Pines into a mini supermarket, starting a fruit and veg shop in Glen Forrest, along with volunteering as auditor for the festival, Darlington Primary P & C, the Glen, Guildford Potters… you name it! Betty, who continues to play a role in many organisations, has this signature air of quiet efficiency: “I’m here to do a job so I’m sorry I don’t have time to chat because, when I’m done here, I have 30 people coming to lunch …”

As you can imagine, Peter and Betty have been at the top of every organisation’s wish list, so when Kirsty moved to Albany I practised various approaches for securing Betty as the Review’s Business Manager – from abject pleading to “Betty, I know we haven’t a hope in hell, but the Review would just love you to ….” And she said yes! So, we have these speedy meetings (tea and biscuits) with Betty presiding and producing immaculate minutes, and I always leave her house with a sense of awe and serenity: Betty’s in control and all’s well with the world.

Way back, there was a nice Interflora advert with the slogan: “Say it with flowers…” so, Betty and Peter, on behalf of the community, the Review and FODS are delighted to say ‘thank you’ for your exemplary work on behalf of many local groups.

A Mundaring officer recently observed that Darlington is the Shire’s most engaged community and it’s people like you that make it so. And, unlike those Interflora bouquets, these spectacular eucalypts will keep on giving pleasure to countless people who walk through this lovely reserve which, in itself, is yet another example of incredible volunteering by locals. Thanks to FODS for helping to make this happy occasion happen.

Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group (DCRAG)

The Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group, formerly Management Committee, is a unique local community group within the Shire of Mundaring. Our small and well used recreation area, for both structured and nonstructured activities, provides for many and varied user groups and individuals.

DCRAG has played an important role for many years in allowing the community to come together in a group to advise the Shire officers of what we value in the recreational space.

Here are the key items from the DCRAG Terms of Reference. By working together, we can maintain and improve the area to allow benefits to reach all members of our community.

Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group (DCRAG) - Terms Of Reference

PURPOSE

3.1 To provide information and advice to the Shire on matters relating to the recreation facilities in the Darlington precinct.

3.2 To assess the local communities’ recreation needs and wants and keep the Shire informed of these needs.

3.3 To assist the Shire by providing recommendations on future planning of the recreation facilities in the Darlington precinct.

3.4 To make recommendations to the Shire on capital items relating to recreational facilities within the Darlington precinct.

3.5 To be a focal point and act as a link between the Shire and the local community.

MEMBERSHIP

Membership shall consist of persons comprising various community groups such as:

• Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade

• Darlington Junior Cricket

• Darlington Social Cricket

• Darlington Tennis Club

• Darlington Arts Festival

• Darlington Social Club

• Darlington Junior Football

• Darlington Bushfire Ready Group

• Darlington Ratepayer and Residents Association

• Darlington Sports and Recreation Association (Inc)

• Darlington Community Garden

• Darlington FODS Group

• Darlington Masterplan Group

• Darlington History Group

• Darlington Sustainability Group

• Local schools - one representative from each school

• Representatives from the local community otherwise not representative of a particular user group

• One Shire of Mundaring Councillor

MANAGEMENT OF BUSINESS

The Group shall elect its own Chair and determine its own procedures.

The group shall hold an AGM each February and elect the following office bearers …… Chairperson; Secretary.

Quorum at a meeting will consist of at least four members present from representatives of the membership bodies

The Group shall meet quarterly, or more frequently as required.

The Group may invite other persons, including representatives of other organizations, to attend any meeting but such persons shall not be entitled to vote on any decision arising out of that meeting

The Shire will provide administrative and executive support to facilitate the effective functioning of the Group.

A record of proceedings shall be prepared for each meeting and distributed to all group members within 5 working days after each meeting. The document shall be filed in the Shire’s record management system.

The Shire agrees to pay the annual subscription of the DCRAG to the Darlington Review.

The members of the Advisory Group are engaged by the Shire in the capacity as volunteers.

Approved 24/02/2020

The next quarterly DCRAG meeting will be held Monday 28th August at 7.00pm in the pavilion. We thank Chris Pemberton for her kind assistance in minute taking as Colin enjoys his holidays.

Further DCRAG information may be found on the village website https://www.darlingtonvillage.org including:-

• 2022 Capital Items Requests,

• DCRAG 2020 – 2120 Large Tree Replacement and Management Plan,

• DCRAG Lower Area Masterplan – Stage I 2018 Skatepark, Pumptrack and Arbour

• DCRAG Lower Area Masterplan – Phase II 2022 Wetland Rehabilitation Action Plan 2022

• DCRAG 2021 Seating Plan

Steady progress is being made on several fronts on the Darlington Wetland Rehabilitation Action Plan (WRAP) project, located just below (west of) the community garden and skate park.

Planning: More detailed mapping of the area has been undertaken as a basis for rehabilitation activities planning and integration with the Terratree ecological survey conducted in 2022.

Informing: Information meetings have been held with Shire officers, and a number of shire Councillors have attended onsite presentations.

Monitoring: The wetland is seasonal and, since the break of winter rains, the flows of water into the wetland are being monitored. The two pictures show part of the main wetland itself and the channel that flows directly from the wetland. The extent of weed-choking (kikuyu) is clear.

Applications for funding: The WRAP steering committee is currently focused on applying for funding from the recently announced WA Community Rivercare Grant 7. Chris Arnold is coordinator of this project and contactable on arnoldcg56@ gmail.com

Cook, Chair | Colin James, Secretary

Trish

Classifieds

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!!

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.

Letter to The Review

Ian Crawford writes:

The NoiseBin has started growing antlers! The first branches are on, and more are on the way.

We are mounting sensors and speakers in the sculpture, and putting the finishing touches to the electronics. We are eagerly seeking someone to help us write the intricate code for the NoiseBin's control systems. Contact us (admin@noisebin.org) if you can code or are keen to learn!

We have a development proposal going to the Shire shortly, including terrific site and 3D drawings prepared by Javi Ayora of Ayora Architecture - thanks Javi!

Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association (DRRA)

Since 1909”

Tree Replacement on Owen Road

At our last public meeting we discussed the Shire's request to replace the trees near Earnshaws. DRRA supported the replacement of these trees and ongoing discussions are being held to decide on the species to be planted as replacements.

Halloween

Liz Dumont presented residents' views on the Darlington Halloween event, revealing mixed opinions. Concerns were raised about crowd size, noise, and safety. Strategies for effective management were suggested.

Locality Plan – Sui Johansen

Sui Johanssen introduced the Darlington Locality Plan (DLP) and its history. Although the Shire had not incorporated the new DLP into their planning process, DRRA sought to explore how they could work together to consider the wishes of the Darlington community in planning discussions. Suggestions were made to use the Plan as a guide for new residents and real estate agents to preserve the village's ambiance.

Congratulations to the Darlington History Group

The Darlington History Group received a Lottery West grant of $152k for the 5km Heritage Walk Trail. DRRA expressed support for the initiative.

Councillors' Reports

Shire President James Martin announced the appointment of the new Shire CEO, Jason Whiteaker, starting in October. Budget deliberations were ongoing, and community review documentation would be presented soon.

Advocacy Win – Dog Signs

A win for Darlington! The Shire will be removing several dog signs from the Oval following advocacy from DRRA and other community members. Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation go to all who supported this cause, particularly Liz Dumont and Louise Stelfox, who saw it through.

The Shire's senior Infrastructure and Community Safety Ranger has advised that the following signs will be removed:

• The two new dog signs on the trail side of the oval and the cricket nets will be removed.

• The three old signs on the power pole of Pine Terrace will be removed.

• The "No horse" sign below the dog exercise sign on Pine Terrace will be removed.

This will leave three dog exercise signs at the primary entry points to the oval area.

This change (expected to take effect by the time this edition of the Review is in print) will reduce sign pollution while still providing notification to dog owners about the rules.

A good outcome for Darlington, a 'Community who Cares'!

The retirement of Bill Volich, who had been collecting bin waste for Mundaring Shire for fifty years, was appreciated by all.

Councillor Paige McNeil reported on discussions with the Federal Government concerning organic waste disposal and energy efficiency strategies. She highlighted the government's commitment to working with local governments.

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

NEXT DRRA MEETING: 10 August, 7:30 pm, at Darlington Hall. Send through topics for discussion to drra@darlingtonvillage.org

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

At the beginning of July, I met with the Darlington History Group and Shire of Mundaring staff and councillors at the Darlington Hall to present a $152,510 grant from Lotterywest on behalf of the State Government.

The grant is to create and install 31 interpretive signs along historical and cultural sites in the local area. A Six Seasons garden is also planned recognising both Indigenous and European history. The Lotterywest funding is in addition to the $36,000 provided to the project as one of my election commitments and a similar allocation from the Shire of Mundaring.

The project has taken many years to bring to fruition and particular thanks and congratulations go to Val Shiell, Cliff Burns and the Darlington History Group team for all their work in its carefully design development.

In the broader context Lotterywest has delivered its third consecutive year of record-breaking returns to the Western Australian community, with $1.05 billion provided in grants and lottery prizes. With $1.22 billion in lottery sales last financial year, $351.5 million went to supporting the WA community through grants, with $704.2 million shared among WA lottery winners. The WA community continues to benefit from Lotterywest grants more than ever.

In total there were 438 WA not-for-profit groups and local governments that benefited from 489 direct Lotterywest grants, to the tune of $130.5 million. These grants ranged from $7.7 million being provided each to Screenwest and Perth Festival, to $3,000 given to Swan Valley Voices for arts and cultural activities. In addition, Lotterywest partnered with the WA Government to deliver a $3.4 million grant program to support 16 Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to deliver services to Aboriginal people across WA.

The State's health sector received $176.7 million in Lotterywest funding, and the sports and arts sectors received $22 million each. The 2022-23 financial year saw 80 WA players share in a total $236 million worth of Division One prizes. Western Australia is unique, as the only State-owned and operated lottery in the country where profits have been returned directly to the WA community for the past 90 years.

Matthew Hughes

MLA JP Member for Kalamunda Electorate

Kalamunda Office: Shop 9, Kalamunda Central Railway Road, Kalamunda WA 6076

Mundaring Office:

Wednesday - Friday 9am to 12 By Appointment only

Authorised by Matthew Hughes Shop 9 Kalamunda Central Shopping Centre, Railway Road, Kalamunda

Councillor's Column | Cr Luke Ellery - South Ward

Dearest Reader, sincere apologies for any confusion caused by my previous column, which was a repeat of February 2022. I had sent in my column late and attached to a very old email thread. That said, I appreciated the chance it afforded to reflect on the time that was and hope our community has emerged stronger. This column, however, is absolute garbage, a dedicated report on rubbish.

Bill Volich of Volich Waste Contractors has been servicing the Shire of Mundaring for nearly 50 years and he is now hanging up the boots. Over the years, Bill has run the waste depots and faithfully collected our green bins while being based out of Mundaring, ensuring a low cost but high-quality service. Thank-you Bill for your service and wishing you all the best for retirement.

EMRC, who currently runs Redhill, Coppin Rd and of whom the Shire is a member is now collecting our bins. There are some changes being considered by Council:

• FOGO will be implemented by July 2024. FOGO is Food Organics, Garden Organics (essentially compost). FOGO reduces emissions of waste that would otherwise vent methane, enables us to put nutrients back into our soil, and reduces what is sent to landfill. It is also mandated by the state government that all councils introduce FOGO by 2025.

• Frequency of collection is yet to be finalised; generally, Councils have opted for weekly FOGO, alternating fortnights for the green and general waste. There will be a communication plan and we hope to listen to residents to determine what is best.

Council is considering an ‘on-demand’ verge collection service as opposed to the current ‘bring out your dead’, scheduled service. Essentially instead of having one set time (usually around September) to bring out your waste, you can call the shire for one free collection at any time. I

always encourage residents to seek up-cycling before putting something on the verge. This decision is not yet final but some pro’s and cons are considered below. Council is also considering whether to use skip bins (which better contain waste) or continue using the verge (allows better separation and reduces lifting required). Please do reach out with your preferences on this service: scheduled vs on demand, skip bin vs none, verge service vs none at all. I can be contacted at crellery@mundaring. wa.gov.au.

PROS CONS

The service is when you want it. Doing home renos and don’t want to wait months or organise a trailer for the depot; just call the Shire

Less pollution of streets and scalpers

You can share a collection with neighbours to get multiple collections

Lower cost (predicted ~25% decrease)

Less overall waste (predicted 33% less landfill

Better sorting and recycling is predicted

You must call to organise. Current service is also timed to encourage pruning and mitigation prior to bushfire season.

Less opportunity to pick up free stuff

It was mentioned at a DRRA meeting that scheduled services can promote a sense of community as we all put out our waste together

One man's trash is another man's treasure, and the by-product from one food can be perfect for making another. – Yotam Ottolenghi

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, August 8, 2023, at the Darlington Fire Station.

Every year over 1,000 fires start in homes like yours, and it is an unfortunate reality that people can die in house fires. Heaters, charging devices and batteries, candles, lighters and matches are all too often the cause of fires in homes, and these fires can cause significant, costly damage and contribute to severe injury or death. Almost all of these fires are accidental and preventable, and you can improve your family’s safety by taking a few simple steps.

• Batteries and devices should never be left charging overnight

• Candles should NEVER be left unattended, or burning overnight

• Candles and heaters should be kept clear of any combustible materials such as paper/cardboard, curtains and clothing

• Keep lighters and matches away from children, preferably up high and locked away

• Never leave children unattended with lighters or matches.

fires over the past decades have reinforced that land owners and residents must take a degree of shared responsibility to prepare their properties, by reducing the potential risk of bushfire and planning for bushfire emergencies. Additionally, all landholders are required to prepare for, prevent and manage bushfires on their land. So, please make time to plan, and carry out what can be done around your home and property BEFORE the coming fire season, to minimise the bushfire risk for you, your neighbours and the Darlington community. This includes creating and maintaining a 20m Building Protection Zone. Contact the Fire Station, your local Bushfire Ready Group coordinator or the Shire of Mundaring’s Fire Hazard Inspection Officers for more information.

If you have any concerns about the fuel load on your property leading up to the next fire season, the Darlington Brigade may be able to help. Property owners that would like the Brigade to consider doing a Hazard Reduction Burn on their property can call us on 9299 7217, or visit the Station between 9am and 10am any Saturday morning. An authorised officer will arrange a visit to examine your property, discuss your issues and provide a quote, based on such things as size, fuel load, topography, access, time to burn etc. (note: conducting HRBs is subject to weather and environmental considerations). These burns also provide a valuable opportunity for training, development, requalification, and up-skilling of Brigade members.

Our data guru Eric B has crunched the numbers and analysed the turn-out records for the Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade for the last financial year, including the 2022/2023 fire season. Here are some key figures:

• Total Incidents = 47 (27 attended)

Accidental fires can occur in any home and be devastating for everyone involved, but the good news is; you can play a part in preventing it from happening you. For more information about home fire safety and preventing accidental home fires visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au/site/fire-in-the-home/overview.html

Despite another long and dry fire season, and unlike so many communities around the world, we had fewer large fires locally than in some previous years. This meant a relatively quieter season for our volunteer fire fighters, and generally less impact on the community. But while the weather may have moved deep into winter, we must not get complacent about playing a part in bushfire mitigation. Tragic bushfire events over recent decades must serve as a reminder that everyone needs to play a part in mitigating the risks of living in a bush fire prone, ruralurban environment. Inquiries and incident reviews of many major

• Total Member Turnouts = 259

• Total Volunteer Firefighter Hours = 1541 hrs

The largest fire we attended was at Chitna Road in Neergabby, resulting in two shifts, with 213 firefighter hours provided by 29 members. Among those figures are 11 firefighters, providing 592 hours on intrastate deployments at incidents around WA, including flood recovery at Carnarvon. And this doesn’t include the meetings, training, and maintenance requirements of the Brigade’s members. Remember, we are a volunteer brigade; so that is over 193 working days of community emergency service provided with no labour cost to State and Local government.

“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

Ricky Harvey

Hasluck, which includes so much of the Hills and foothills of Perth, is a great place to live. It’s also a great place to retire in, and many people are choosing to live here in retirement, including my own parents.

Those with the fortune of living a long and fulfilling life know that aging comes with its own challenges.

No matter your circumstances, I truly believe everyone has the right to age with dignity and respect.

The importance of a fit-for-purpose and well-resourced aged care sector is something I am acutely aware of.

That’s why, before the election, we promised to continue the work of implementing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into the Aged Care Sector.

Since the election, the Albanese Labor Government, through the leadership of Aged Care Minister Anika Wells, has been delivering on these commitments.

Firstly, our Government recognised the complex and previously undervalued work of the aged care workforce,and has invested $11.3 billion to fund the Fair Work Commission’s interim decision for a 15% pay increase.

This is the largest ever pay increase for aged care workers and it signifies a genuine step towards valuing their dedication and skill. This policy will also help aged care providers attract and retain quality staff.

In addition, seniors increasingly want to live independently in

their own homes for longer.

To facilitate this, our Government is providing 9,500 additional Home Care Packages, to be released in 2023-24.

It’s another way to create an aged care sector that meets community expectations.

We are putting nurses back into nursing homes. We know that with age comes increased risk of health complications and that is why we have passed legislation requiring aged care homes to have around-the-clock nursing care.

To further ensure aged care providers are accountable for the care and services they provide to our loved ones, we have introduced Star Ratings for residential aged care facilities. This system makes it easier for people to compare the quality and safety of aged care homes.

We all know how important good quality nutrition is, not just for our physical health, but our mental health too. The government has increased investment to improve food, nutrition and the dining experience in residential aged care by establishing a food unit in the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

Each of these measures, following the recommendations of the Royal Commission, constitute a substantial investment in aged care.

I know there is more work to do. I am committed to the ongoing improvement of the sector that our seniors rely on, that looks after our loved ones, and which we will all rely on in some way.

Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides

Empowering girls to discover their potential as leaders of their world

The last Friday night of term the Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides were very excited to come along to a Mexican sleepover at the hall. For some of the girls, this was their first sleepover and they all had a wonderful time.

The girls played games, some very traditional such as La Pironola (a game of chance and counting beans) and some just for fun (toss the tortilla!). We learnt about the World Guiding Centre in Mexico ‘Our Cabana‘. The girls then prepared their own Mexican tea and breakfast. They also made worry dolls and Cinco masks and did a scavenger hunt by torchlight. The next morning the sleepover was concluded with a pinata!

This term, the guides were asked to make a mosaic tile for the community garden. We went along on a cold Saturday morning and made a mosaic, showing our golden trefoil embedded in a large Marri tree. We have an action packed term planned, the girls are very much looking forward to orienteering with their Dads for father’s day! Darlington Guides currently have vacancies so come down and have a trial

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.

What’s

on at the Hub of the Hills for over 55’s in August

UPCOMING EVENTS:

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.

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

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

Creative Showcase | Tuesday 22 August | 9.30am to 11.30am

A morning of local talent on show. Local individuals and groups will have their creative works on show and be available for a chat about what they are showing. Morning tea available for a gold coin donation.

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

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

Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers' Centre

Submissions for the 2024 KSP Writers’ Centre Fellowship Program are closing soon

Deadline to submit: 25

August 2023

The KSP Writers’ Centre is proud to host this annual fellowship program for adult authors, providing placements for dedicated aspiring, emerging and established writers looking to develop a writing project. All genres accepted. Successful applicants are gifted with the time and space to work in an inspirational environment with special access to Katharine’s Cottage, where celebrated novelist Katharine Susannah Prichard wrote most of her works. While in residence at KSP, fellows also have access to an active community of peers through our many writing groups, all of which are complimentary as part of the fellowship, as well as the opportunity to network, drink and dine with your co-fellows.

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.

Welcome to Glen Forrest Bridge Club

Maybe you have considered learning to play or to renew your interest in the game. Glen Forrest Bridge Cub, is a friendly and supportive club that caters to beginners and experienced players. It is located at the Glen Forrest Sports Club in McGlew Road. Fees are very modest and include membership of the Sports Club.

For beginners, a very friendly and supportive 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.

Apart from being a very interesting and challenging game, it is a great social outlet, meeting and mixing with all kinds of people from all walks of life. Many lifetime friendships have formed over the bridge table.

Regular sessions are held on Monday and Wednesday afternoons, learners/social session Wednesday morning.

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

KSP Writers’ Centre Annual Spooky Stories Sundowner

When: Saturday 19 August 2023, 5.00-7.00pm AWST at the KSP Writers' Centre

This free event celebrates the launch of KSP's 2023 spooky story anthology, featuring all the winning and shortlisted entries from the KSP 2023 Spooky Story Competition sponsored by Tabetha Rogers Beggs of Little Black Dress Productions. Judge Carolyn Wren will announce the winners, which will be followed by readings from a select number of authors. Register for your free ticket today!

Submit to our Annual Short Fiction Competition

Deadline: 2.00pm AWST, 6 September 2023. YOUTH (up to 17 years): Free, limit of one entry per person. ADULT (18 plus): $10 per entry, no limit on entries.

The KSP Writers' Centre is proud to present this annual short fiction competition for Australian writers, which is FREE for youth to enter thanks to sponsorship from the Shire of Mundaring. Judges will be looking for good quality original, unpublished writing with engaging characters and a compelling narrative. All fiction styles and themes are acceptable. Results will be announced at an awards ceremony in December.

Glen Forrest Bridge Club

ELIZABETH BUTTFIELD Real Estate Settlements

When buying or selling, you have the right to nominate your own representative in the settlement process.

I practice as a solicitor and offer a personal, professional and fully independent settlement and conveyancing service.

Competitive fixed fee arrangements apply, with discounts of up to 50% off the official scale

0431173 098 ebsettlements@optusnet.com.au www.ebsettlements.com.au

Rotary Club of Midland Swan Valley (Swan Rotary)

Rotary Western Australia recently celebrated the bringing together of all Rotary clubs in WA as one Rotary District, previously there were two. This brings together almost 2,000 volunteers and 90 clubs from Kununurra to Esperance and from Kalgoorlie to the Perth metropolitan area, with clubs in the Wheatbelt and the southwest.

It was an historic occasion at Government House with the Lieutenant Governor Chief Justice Peter Quinlan giving an address together with the Rotary International Director Dr. Jessie Harman.

financial ways,” said Ineke. “Rotary has come a long way in years gone by and not enough people know about it. Anyone who would like to help others in one way or another, and who have a high sense of integrity themselves, would enjoy spending time with like-minded people.”

The Swan Rotary Club is a vibrant club making a difference in the community and having fun whilst doing it. There are opportunities for more members to join the club and experience helping others in a variety of ways. They meet at the 7th Avenue Bar and Restaurant most weeks but can also be seen at the Bassendean Markets on the last weekend of every month.

Ineke joined Rotary in 2008 and has been with this club ever since, her husband Geoff is also a member. She recalls “I first joined our Club when I started with Riverlands Montessori School, with the ulterior motive of having Rotary support the school. However, I soon learned the school community, the children and their families would benefit more from supporting Rotary. The joy in knowing we are helping others in need, is now well researched as being one of the major factors in positive mental health. Our club definitely focuses on enjoying what we do, we also have regular social events and meet up with other Rotarians.”

Ineke Oliver, past Principal of Riverlands Montessori School in Dayton, was installed as the first District Governor of Rotary Western Australia.

"We are a service organisation doing things differently, changing with the times, by providing volunteering opportunities for anyone and everyone keen to help others in both practical and

The Importance of Oral History

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.

Mundaring and Hills Historical Society

Oral history seeks to capture history, much missed by public and statistical data, rather adding to the cultural significance of peoples, places and events. Eyewitnesses to events and everyday life contribute to various viewpoints and perspectives, coloured by their own past and their present circumstances, some often contradicting written sources. The recording may serve as the only source of a particular event, place or person whose life has been untold or forgotten. By interviewing and collecting oral histories a better

understanding of how communities experience external forces, filling out details of the past and the impact of the wider environment on their existence.

Change is captured easily with the eye albeit momentarily, but oral history has a greater depth, it allows those interviewed to express their thoughts and consequence of change, whether for the good or the detrimental challenges they may have posed. The recording picks up the story but more importantly the voice, accent and emotions expressed by the interviewee, preserved for future generations to hear, and may act as a means of comparison of lives and environment. Individual narratives are personal and of greater value than generalisations, avoiding stereotyping, engendered prejudice and other variables, readily available in our high-tech world.

MHHS have been collecting Oral Histories since its inception in 1989, thus preserving histories of the people of the Mundaring Shire. The Shire is rich in workers, industries, immigrants, families, art and creativity, help us to preserve that. If you know someone who has a story to tell of their lives or indeed yourself, then let us know and we will endeavour to capture those in a recording and transcript.

Next General Meeting and AGM

Saturday 19th August

2pm at Boya Community Centre, 119-135 Scott Street Boya Guest Speaker | Dr Jan Baldwin at 3pm

Mundaring Medical Centre, next to Aldi

Contact Details

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

Jolly Jurien Jaunt Weekend Adventure VACANCY FOR ONE MALE (25 – 28 August)

Join with 30 other Adventurers. Based at Jurien Bay, 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 and natural features in Western Australia. Contact Cliff on 9299 6696 or cliffburns@iprimus.com.au for all the details.

Seven Walks Completed & Ten Walks Still Available

This season so far, we have walked Canning River, Settlers Common in Armadale, Swan River bridges, Carmel Bushlands, Lake Leschenaultia Bushlands, Piesse Brook Bushlands and Swan River/Old Guildford Area. Attendances have been consistently high at around 30 people.

with its beautiful scenery is a real treat.

Camping for the Elderly

An elderly couple noticed that they were becoming more forgetful, so they decided to go to the doctor. The doctor told them that camping is good for your mental health but they should also start writing things down so they don’t forget. So, a couple days later they went camping and the lady asked her husband to make her a cup of coffee. “You might want to write it down,” she said. The husband said, “No, I can remember that you want a cup of coffee.” She then told her husband she wanted a cup of coffee with cream. “Write it down,” she told him, and again he said, “No, no, I can remember: you want a cup of coffee with cream.” Then the lady said she wants a cup of coffee with cream and sugar. “Write it down,” she told her husband and again he said, “No, I got it. You want a cup of coffee with cream and sugar.”

So, he goes to get the coffee and after 20 minutes he retu rns to his wife and hands her a plate of eggs and bacon. The old wife stares at the plate for a moment, then looks at her husband and said, “You remembered the eggs and bacon, but where’s the toast?”

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.

See you on the track.

Cliff Burns (Organizer and Guide) 9299 6696 For programme, info. & bookings: Email: cliffburns@iprimus.com.au

Phone: Cliff Burns 9299 6696

Sun. 10 # Alp Road Reserve SawyersValley

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

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

Walking in the Darling Ranges

Photograph: A big group at Piesse Brook, east of Kalamunda.

Darlington Arts Festival

It’s been a while since DAF notes have appeared in the Review and it’s good to be back.

With only three months to go, the pace is starting to increase. The festival is a huge undertaking and requires a big team of volunteers. The committee is a great mix of those who have been involved for years and newcomers, all dedicated to bringing you a weekend in November with a range of activities and attractions to appeal to all ages.

Because it is an arts festival, the visual and performing arts are fundamental but when you add in the artisan craft stalls, gourmet food, art workshops for kids, the art shop, wine tent – the list goes on – then you can understand why we are so proud to be part of this event. And Darlington can be proud to have supported it for so many decades.

Applications are open now for Open Art, Performing Arts, and Junior Art. Sculptures on the Scarp and Youth Art applications will be open soon.

Details of all these are on the website: www.darlingtonartsfestival. com.

Putting on an event like this doesn’t come cheap and we are always keen for sponsors and donors to help. Each year many organisations, businesses and individuals give generously (and some have done so for years). Their support is always greatly appreciated and without it the festival would not survive. The sponsorship team will be talking to previous sponsors and donors but if you are new to Darlington and would like to contribute we would be delighted to hear from you. Check out the website for details.

Forrest Darlings CWA

Our delegate Heather represented our branch at the CWA of WA annual conference in Perth last month. Hundreds of members from branches across the state descended on the Novotel to rekindle friendships, present awards and vote on the conference motions. This event is a highlight of the year for many CWA members and a chance to deepen our understanding of the work of the organisation. Among the highlights was a presentation on the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) 30th World Conference in Kuala Lumpur and a presentation on the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act.

Library Bags

Branch members are continuing to sew library bags to donate to local school children in need. Last month we presented them to Clayton View Primary School and Greenmount Primary School. We have a surplus of library bags for sale ($5 each). Please contact us via the details at the bottom of the page if you would like to purchase. All funds raised from the sales of bags will continue to fund our work making and donating them to children in need.

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. Membership is now half price until the end of the year ($35). For more information about joining or visiting contact Kate Herren (President) on 0452 644 248 or follow Forrest Darlings on Facebook.

Left: Julie donating library bags at Greenmount Primary School and (top) Sally and Jen at Clayton View Primary School.

Darlington History Group

Five Years of Persistence Brings Results for Darlington

The Darlington History Group is happy to announce that a combination of support and financial contributions from the Western Australian Heritage Council, the State Government (Matthew Hughes MLA), the Shire of Mundaring, Lotterywest and considerable fund-raising by the Darlington History Group has moved the proposed Darlington Heritage Walk Trail Project to a fully funded stage.

Further, the History Group is delighted that it will be partnering with the Shire of Mundaring to roll out the manufacturing, construction and implementation stage which will commence during the second half of the current year. The History Group and the Shire have joined forces, with the Shire being instrumental in auspicing the grant application to Lotterywest. The success of this funding means that the Darlington Heritage Walk Trail will be completed.

It has taken the History Group almost five years of consistent activity which included the initial historical research, many hours of discussion by the Project Working Group, the drafting of a Masterplan, consultations/meetings with community organisations, schools, dozens of interested local residents, several community on-site meetings, indigenous representatives and so on. During that time the History Group maintained continuous consultation with the Shire of Mundaring.

The History Group engaged a Heritage Professional to draft the overall design works and signage which took more than 12 months of consistent work. Additional site works have also been drafted by a local architect.

The value of the proposed Heritage Walk Trail is enormous. The History Group’s research has discovered that Darlington has a very rich and important history. The proposed walk trail is located adjacent to the eastern railway constructed in 1883. It was the first railway service that connected the Perth colony with the rich farm and primary producing areas in and beyond the Darling Scarp and Perth Hills. Then there was the establishment of the famous original Darlington Vineyard and Winery by Dr Alfred Waylen and Hon. Josceline Amherst. That was just the beginning.

As time moved on Darlington’s character and culture became strongly influenced by its past history. The History Group strongly believes that the best way to preserve that history

is to make it work for us. The implementation of the trail will bring the history to life, helping visitors and residents to build awareness, appreciation and understanding of Darlington’s unique story.

In the meantime, for further historical information consult the following books written by local historians

Cliff Burns and Arlene Collings and published by the Darlington History Group.

WHERE

TO

GET

THEM:

You may purchase the books from The Little Nook, The Hive, Darlington Post Office, or phone Cliff 9299 6696. “The Original Darlington Vineyard” is $12 and “Historic Structures and Buildings of Darlington” is $15. There are more books of local interest on our website, including our local “Walk Trails and Circuits”, the “History of the Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade”, “Arts on the Edge” (the history of the Darlington Arts Festival), “Local Flora and Bushlands”, and many more. Visit dhg.org.au

Darlington Hall Centenary Celebration

DHG would like to thank Antoinette, who publishes the Darlington Review, for designing the full page poster for the Centenary. Check out the poster opposite for the details.

SIZZLING SIZZLING SIZZLING! PUT A SNAG ON THE BARBIE AND HELP DHG RAISE FUNDS ON 16 SEPTEMBER, 2023

DHG will be at BUNNINGS cooking up your favourite distraction of why you really are at Bunnings. Come and say hi, buy a sausage in a bun with loads of onion and plenty of flavour, and help us keep Sharing the Heritage.

TIME TO PRUNE YOUR STUFF! DONATE YOUR GOOD USED ITEMS TO US – AND FEEL GOOD DOING IT!

We collect Bric-A-Brac in good condition all year round, so that we can have a marquee full of Great Stuff at the Darlington Arts Festival. Christine is wanting your Great-Stuff-You-No-LongerNeed , so put it in a box and call Christine on 0490 793 015. We thank you in advance!

SHARE THE HERITAGE & JOIN US FOR LESS THAN THE PRICE OF AN ICECREAM - JUST $5 A YEAR! DETAILS dhg.org.au

Rose

Whipper

Rubbish Removed General Garden Work

Tel: 9299 8538

Mobile: 0407 088 550

The Parkerville Tavern, Coral Coast Beef and Lion Mill Vineyards are excited to bring you an exquisite evening of Beef and Wine Pairing. Celebrate winter at the Parky and enjoy a four-course, winter-inspired dinner, matched with locally-produced, boutique wine with an additional glass of sparkling wine on arrival and ending the evening with a coffee or tea.

Menu:

- Glass of Sparkling wine on arrival

- Beef Croquette | Wine: Tempranillo

- Beef Short Rib, Kim Chi | Wine: Shiraz

- 150g Sirloin, medium, confit garlic puree, bordelaise | Wine: Zinfandel

- Plum & Cinnamon Bakewell Tart, Chantilly | Wine: Liqueur Zinfandel

- Tea & Coffee

Limited places. Go to parkervilletavern.com.au/whats-on/ or scan the QR code to book

Marloo Theatre’s All Sorts One Act Season A Season of Short Plays with Something for Everyone

One Act Plays are a fascinating format for storytelling. Intriguing characters, fascinating stories and theatrical experiences all making for great bite sized entertainment. This September, Marloo Theatre is proud to present ‘All Sorts’. In this year’s one act season, three short plays will be presented at each performance and each one is vastly different to the next, with a bit of something for every taste from comedy to drama and thriller.

The first of the three plays is ‘Too Many Daughters’, written by Claire Epstein and directed by Taneal Thompson. This hilarious comedic parody plays on the stereotypical storyline of classic Jane Austen, taking a leaf out of the book of ‘Pride and Prejudice’. The Ashworth Family is made up of the overbearing mother, the long suffering father and twelve (or is it thirteen) daughters. Florence Ashworth is determined to marry off her daughters to eligible suitors but money, horse related accidents and a austere Dowager Countess always seem to get in the way. Director Taneal Thompson is loving taking the lead on this parody show. “It is a truth universally acknowledged that people who enjoy a laugh must be in search of this enjoyable little comedy” she said. “It is sure to delight fans of Jane Austen as well as the period drama, romance and the ridiculous” she concluded.

TOO MANY DAUGHTERS CAST

Florence Ashworth - Rebecca McRae

Paul Cook - Nicolas Ashworth

Evie Jagot - Henrietta Ashworth

Chloe Wiggers - Imogen Ashworth

Cordelia Ashworth - Brianna Thompson

Felicity Ashworth - Meg McKenzie

Alastair Blackwood - Gavin Crane

Gwendolyn Ashworth - Sophie David

Cecil Thorburn - Kieran Ridgway

Lady Thorburn - Candice Preston

Peter Billingsby - Chris McRae

Servant - Tim Jagot

Anne Ashworth - Georgia Stidwell

Charlotte Ashworth - Sienna Stidwell

Margaret Ashworth- Olivia Keary

Second on the ‘All Sorts’ bill is ‘Wickie on the Wind’, a brand new play written and directed by Chris McRae. Based on true events, this story is set in Albany where the Point King Lighthouse and Keeper’s Cottage now lie in ruins. Widely considered to be one of the most haunted locations in Western Australia, the last lighthouse keeper of Point King was John Reddin, whose ghost is said to inhabit the area.

The play recounts the story of local yachtswoman Jennifer Smith who provides a first hand account of this historic ghost story. Writer/Director Chris McRae was compelled to write this story. “It is a relatively unknown piece of history and an absolutely fascinating story” he said. “The mystery surrounding lighthouses, their keepers and history intrigues me and this story is an amazing combination of the historical and the supernatural” he continued.

WICKIE ON THE WIND CAST

John Reddin - Grant Malcolm

Jennifer Smith - Alexandra D’Ulisse

Elsie Reddin - Harper Ranger

The third and final one act play in this season is the chilling ‘One Lane Bridge’ written by Stephen Gregg and directed by AJ Giltrow. A dark and snowy night and a treacherous drive winding through a mountain canyon is what faces young Eli. He soon finds himself with unknown passenger Samantha and things take a dark turn as their scary stories begin. A dark and unsettling thriller with moments of relentless fear. Director AJ Giltrow describes the show as a thrilling spectacle. "This show is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat in anticipation” he said. “There is a constant sense of suspense over what will happen next” he continued.

ONE LANE BRIDGE CAST

Eli - Keaton Humphreys

Samantha - Jessica Wilkins

Hayden/Narrator - Sean Wcislo

Cora/Narrator - Peri Watson

Ezra/Narrator - Beau Van Der Beeke

Darlington Theatre Players’ ‘All Sorts’ One Act Season will run for five performances from the 8th-16th September at Marloo Theatre in Greenmount. Each show includes performances of all three one act plays and tickets can be booked at www.trybooking.com/CJPCC

The Darlington Club

Saturday, 12 August 2023 from 18:30-22:00

The Robert Juniper Award for the Arts offers an annual award to help support young creatives from the Perth Hills in reach their dreams. The Award is substantial ($10,000) and the Live at the Hall event will contribute funds to the 2023 award.

International blues legend (and Darlington resident) Dave Hole will be joined by local musician Glen Whisson for an evening of acoustic blues accompanied by a selection of personal musical favourites. The night will begin with a performance by Ben Bulla - the current recipient of this prestigious award. This is a seated event and guests are welcome to BYO food and drinks.

Ticket link:  www.trybooking.com/1076267

DISCOUNT for TDC Members: please select “BOOK NOW” and then add your tickets to the shopping basket and hit next. In the right hand panel under “Gift certificate / Promotion code” add TDCMEMBERS and hit APPLY to receive the discount, then complete payment.

Thank you mail received for the Clubs recent community support:

“On behalf of the Committee for the Centenary Celebration of the Darlington Hall, I would like to thank the Darlington Club for their donation of $ 200.00”.

Val Shiell, Chair

Re: $1000 cash donation

“On behalf of the Darlington Community Garden (DCG) I wish to thank you and your members for their generous donation to the garden of $1000”.

Trish Cook, Secretary

Fees to join are $20 per person or $40 for two or family. Payee The Darlington Club Inc. BSB 633 000, Account 124527748. Reference Surname and Subs.

Sue Lavell | Club President

Coming Events:

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

August 4th Sundowner

August 11th Closed

August 12th Robert Juniper Award for the Arts fundraiser

August 18th Extraordinary General Meeting - Constitution

August 19th 100 Year Celebration of the Darlington Hall

August 25th Closed

September 1st Fish and Chips

Contact Sue on 0439 273 213 | email oshadhi@iinet.net.au for details

Or Sue Bennetts, Secretary on 0407 920 930 email garrysue24@iinet.net.au

going to get me a phone? You can put as many locks on it as you want to stop me seeing things I shouldn’t ” My reply to him was “When we give you a phone we won’t be locking anything on it By then you will have a full understanding of the freedom you have to make your own choices with what is out in the world. You will be equipped and free to choose for yourself what you access ” His reply was “Fair enough, those locks don’t work anyway, kids know how to get past them.”

Rather than lock away the world our children, we reveal the wor them and show them the choices possible outcomes they are going up against This is how God Father children. It’s what He did with A and Eve He showed them His way them the outcomes of cho anything less and gave them freedom to choose

All while equipping them to walk not faint.

Adam didn’t trust God, he ins desired to live by his own standard desires lead him to act in a way ended in death

Adam didn't die because God smote him or was angry He died because the breath of God, God’s Spirit, Life itself, could not and would not reside in a body that wasn’t desiring to uphold the standard that God had set God will, and does, uphold His own standards and His Spirit, like the wind, resides where it wishes. God had every right to take His Spirit from Adam God had every right to continue to uphold His own standard while leaving Adam to go on continuing in his own ways, if Adam so chose.

God did indeed lock up a tree at that point – the Tree of Life A tree that had been freely on offer; a tree that was able to sustain them for an eternity was now denied to them Why? Because God’s Tree of Life is holy and only those meeting the requirements

came at the risk of losing everything for Himself He knew that giving us the freedom to choose meant that He will either gain the hearts of people, by their own choosing, or have them walk so far from Him that they hate Him, spit on Him and even go so far as to crucify Him

All of this that God may gain for Himself a people who have tried and tested every other measure, every other standard outside of God’s standard and th t t id f Hi l

requires so many laws that parliament houses barely keep up with the process of changing and adding new laws; laws that are required to try and manage people. Federal parliament alone on average, passes 139 new laws each year. How many courthouses will be required to ensure they are justly upheld? How many police officers will we require on the streets to remove the lawlessness? How can we ever be at rest if we are forever living in the cycle of trying to restrain people’s hearts, and minds and decisions!

There is an old saying “Laws are made be broken!” and that is what God Himself did - but He doesn’t just 'break' the chains of the bondage of the law conquered it. He upheld them all, each and every one. In fact it is written that Christ Himself is the end of the law. When His standards are met and upheld, the letter of God’s law is nailed the cross and His righteousness comes in and trumps all the lawlessness and brings into play the creation of renewed minds and hearts.

Without a plumb line, without a moral authority, without design and purpose, how can unity in this world ever exist? If two people in a perfect garden, walking alongside their perfect Creator, couldn’t live without restraining selfish desires, what hope does a larger number of people residing together have?

If I gave each member of our household the right to choose their own standards our home would be in a state of chaos. A family is a mini society and cannot operate without chaos if each person sets their own standards. How is a society on a larger scale then meant to achieve order and unity?

Is there a standard somewhere that we can look upon as an example that displays perfect love, perfect peace and perfect unity in this world? If there was, surely we would all be gathered together asking that community to let us all in and join them.... or maybe we

Minds and hearts where the Spirit of God chooses to reside and work within and through us with the provisions that He has on offer. Gifts of God, where there are no laws of restraint. For it is written that the work of the Holy Spirit within a person produces love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control and against these things there are no laws.

We look at this world and its process of creating more and more laws simply because people will forever experience the desire to set a standard for themselves. Standards that fall short of the glory of God. Standards that bring about the realities this world now has on display.

Jesus says “Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden and I will provide you rest.” and against His provision there are no laws.

Sandra Parish

Darlington Junior Football Club

We are two thirds of the way through our season and are looking at beginning to organise our end of season club wind up. Recently the club held our iPod shuffle and auction night. Which is an event designed to raise fund for the club as well as being a great social event for our adult members.

For those who don’t know an iPod shuffle night is where everyone who purchases a ticket must also select a song to be added to a playlist which is then played at random on the evening, with the first and last song of the night taking home cash prizes. It is a good thing life member Heath Dullard took out the prize for last song of the evening winning a total of $500 given the sheer number of items he bid upon and won.

The auctioneer of the evening Quirky managed to not only feed everyone a delicious paella supper but kept us all entertained with his colourful descriptions of the items available to bid on. Thank you to all of our sponsors or members for donating some wonderful prizes and to all of our committee members responsible for putting together such a fun evening. Special thanks to Robyn, Brodie, Krissy, Alex, Keila and Quirky and thanks to the members who braved the cold and came along to support their club. There were a few very subdued supporters down at the oval the next morning for Sunday footy.

The long-awaited shipment of beanies has arrived! They are available to purchase from the canteen! There are also some drink bottles and shirts left too.

Friends of Darlington Station Reserve (FODS)

Commemorations and Completion of 2023 Planting. Hoorah!

As you can see from this month's Review editorial, Betty Pitcher and Peter Edwards have recently had their wonderful contribution to the Darlington Review commemorated by the planting of Eucalyptus Macrocarpa trees on the Station Reserve opposite Little Nook Café; plaques with the details

will be placed with the trees in due course. As FODS we were delighted to assist with this project and to celebrate on a thankfully dry Sunday morning with the Review, Betty and Peter and family.

Further planting of tube stock plants has continued throughout July and we would like to acknowledge the help and support of Natalie Vallance from Muchea Plant Farm with this stage of the work. We were able to acquire lots of interesting plants on our recent visit to the nursery. As you move through the reserve have a look at the new plants, with their green covers, and see if you can venture over Owen Road to the area of bush just west of that road where Jane has been working with Chris from Mundaring Shire. Peter Day has again been helping with weed control and we very much appreciate your support, Peter.

Plenty of weeding, clearing and maintaining existing plantings still to do this season on the reserve. If you think this might be for you contact us or come down one of the following Sundays in August between 8am and 10 am - August 6th and 20th.

Friends of Glen Park Wander and Search for Colour in Winter...

Gardeners and lovers of our beautiful Australian bushland will be looking forward to the beauty of Spring, the flowers, the insects, the colours, the fragrances. Already now, in late winter, it’s a joy to wander through Glen Park Reserve to see the wildflowers that are flowering ... However with the joys of spring, come the weeds! While we are staying cosy in the warmth of our homes they are germinating, but thankfully, at least sparsely on the southern side of Nyaania Creek. Our years of weed eradication of freesias, hesperantha and ursinia have made a difference. Also areas of bridal creeper have been reduced by continually breaking it off.

Glen Park Reserve, and particularly Nyaania Creek, has always been known to be culturally significant to Aboriginal people. Under the new Aboriginal Heritage Act 2021, we are currently waiting for a new permit to resume work in the Reserve. In the meantime, we’ll only remove seed heads to avoid soil disturbance.

Friends of Glen Park are looking forward to Spring, to continue working to eradicate weeds, thus contributing to maintain the diversity of the flora and fauna. We always welcome more Darlington neighbours joining our Friends of Glen Park. Contact Glenys 9299 8347 Leonie 0400 217 293

Diane

Two plants currently in flower worth considering for your garden (left): Hakea Orthrorryncha - Bird Hakea (right) Guichenotia.

Darlington Community Garden (DCG)

Darlington – it’s much more than just a place to live.

Do you want to design yours and your family’s life to make it happier, healthier, and also longer? And increase the quality of living in Darlington? Have you heard of the Blue Zones?

Longevity expert Dan Buettner, details in his popular book, The Blue Zones, the lifestyle habits of the world’s longest-lived and healthiest people and followed up with The Blue Zones of Happiness revealing the secrets of the world’s happiest places.

Their research indicates the place we live has a bigger influence on health than genetics and is the single largest determinant of health. Residents of Darlington are well known as being fervent about our environment and the nature of our village and Darlington people care.

When asked; “What are the best things about living in Darlington?” people say things like, “The bush environment and the supportive and welcoming community”, “We came for the trees...and stayed for the people”, and “feeling part of the community”.

Buettner has written extensively on the lessons from the happiest places in the world. These are strongest in making happier, healthier residents:

• Bikeable, walkable places.

• Access to parks and green spaces.

• Reducing fast food and junk food consumption and making fruits and vegetables cheaper and more accessible.

And when asked “What can someone do right now to increase their happiness? Buettner answers: “Make a new happy friend — that’s one of the best things you can do. Your happiness will go up 15%. And volunteer, even if you think you don’t have the time. People who find meaningful ways to give back are happier.”

As well as growing great gardens, members of Darlington Community Garden are happy souls and care about the health and happiness of our community. Please do consider checking us out as a place to volunteer and “make a new happy friend” and you will be welcomed by open hearts and arms. And we invite all ages and abilities striving to be as inclusive as possible.

Let’s connect in the Garden, Cheers Susie & Team

Saturday Morning in the Garden: Hi from Sally Sue Shelton Susie Louise Kylie Trish & Alison + dogs of course.

DRUMMING CIRCLE & yarning around the campfire.

How can you get involved?

• NEW MEMBERS welcome. Lots to interest everyone. Join here - https://www. darlingtoncommunitygarden. org.au/join-us-1

• Join our DCG Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/ groups/218148335647263

• CFC’s - CASH FOR CONTAINERS bins back of Liquor Store car park OR DCG Collection Centre # is C 1033 0258. We pick up quantity. Cans & bottles gratefully received.

• TIP TRIPS FUND RAISER: GREEN WASTE & RUBBISH REMOVAL - $65 donation to DCG per trailer. Bookings SHELTON 0452 541 069

• Find things Garden/ PRODUCE related on the DCG TROLLEY under the pines near the playground. Bring your surplus and take what you can use.

• BOTTLETOPS – Drop-off Saturdays from 9am at the Wagon.

• FOR HIRE - VINTAGE CROCKERY & bright & beautiful BUNTING - Trish 0409 479 551

• Sponsorship of A Tree –Dedicate a tree as a tribute to a loved one or in the name of a local business/organisation. For info darlingtoncg@ hotmail.com.

Can you help? – we need:

• Discounts and/or Donations of bricks & materials and Brickies & Paving Tradies to install the paving & Arbour base. We welcome your Offer/ Quote.

SATURDAYS 9am GARDEN BUSY BEES & ARBOUR MOSAIC Project (last day Aug 5)

SUNDAY 13th August (2nd Sunday of month)

From 3pm PLANT & PRODUCE SWAP - Bring produce, seeds, cuttings, plants, herbs, jams, etc & plate of food & drink to share.

From 5pm - DRUMMING CIRCLE & Yarning around the campfire

• Discounts/Trade Accounts/ Sponsorship with Local Suppliers of materials for DCG.

• SECURITY SYSTEM installer. CALL Trish 0409 479 551

Shire of Mundaring Library Service

August events

Snapshots from Home with Sasha Wasley

Monday 14 August, 10.30am-11.45am

Boya Community Centre

Join author Sasha Wasley as she talks about the local history that went into her new book, Snapshots from Home. The book, set in Guildford, Midland, York and Albany during the Great War, explores the journey of Edie Stark, a young woman photographer who volunteers for the YMCA's Snapshots from Home League. Edie learns about the world when she takes her first teaching job away from home, navigating the fraught political environment of the Great Strike and the 1917 conscription referendum. With scenes at the Midland Railway Workshops and Woodbridge House, guests will love hearing the history and seeing old images of familiar local sights and spaces. Bookings essential at https://140823b.eventbrite.com.au

Living Well with Arthritis

Monday 21 August, 10.30am-11.30am

Boya Community Centre

There are many myths about arthritis – what arthritis is, what age arthritis affects. A trained speaker from Arthritis and Osteoporosis WA will attend the session to talk about how to recognise the early warning signs of arthritis, as well as how to manage and remain active if you have arthritis. They will also discuss: arthritis in Australia; the main types of arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout); selfmanagement techniques to help people with arthritis cope better with day-to-day activities; and services and information available from Arthritis and Osteoporosis WA. Bookings essential at https://210823b.eventbrite.com.au.

Games Club for Kids Boya Library

Wednesdays

3.45pm-4.45pm

There’s still time to join the Games Club at Boya Library. Children aged 10 to 14 years are encouraged to join Games Club which meets at Boya Library on Wednesdays between 3.45pm to 4.45pm. It's a great opportunity to learn new board games or play some favourites. Compete for the win or work as a team with our variety of competitive and cooperative games, or bring in your favourites from home!

For more information or to register your child for the term, contact Boya Library on 9290 6755 or email gills@mundaring. wa.gov.au. (Please note that children aged under 12 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.)

Seed Library

We would love to have donations of seeds to replenish the everpopular Mundaring Seed Library. Seeds will be cleaned and processed by the wonderful volunteers from Mundaring Seed Savers. Donation bags are available at both libraries, or you can use your own bag - just write details about the seed variety, where it was harvested, and any handy tips on growing the seeds. You can read more about the Mundaring Seed Library and how to harvest seeds at https://bit.ly/MunSeedLib.

Mundaring Book Club Vacancies

Would you like to join an established book club? Mundaring Book Club meets at Mundaring Library at 10am on the last Friday on the month and has a couple of vacancies for new members. Join the lively discussion whilst enjoying a cuppa. Call Mundaring Library on 9290 6780 or email mills@ mundaring.wa.gov.au for more information.

Ben Wyatt In-Conversation with Author Steve Hawke on The Brothers Wolfe

Thursday 31 August, 6pm-7.30pm - Boya Community Centre

Join us in hearing author Steve Hawke discuss his new novel, The Brothers Wolfe, with Ben Wyatt, former WA Treasurer. The Brothers Wolfe is a complex story of family relationships, secrets, greed, and the ties that bind. Bookings are essential at https://3100823b.eventbrite. com.au.

HELENA COLLEGE

THE TRUE MEASURE OF SUCCESS

At Helena College, we engage in regular reviews of our teaching and learning practices, our co-curricular programs, and our course offerings, as all good schools do. During a recent discussion, the question was posed about what makes Helena College different from other schools.

We looked at the data we regularly report on – our ATAR results, the NAPLAN scores, staff and student retention rates, staff qualifications and more. We also measured the responses we received in our annual community surveys of parents, students and staff. Much of this is included in our annual report, which was published on our website in June.

But despite seeing all this data, all the numbers and measurements, it didn’t quite seem to tell the full Helena story. We know our Camps program is special, our elective choices are broad, and our approach to teaching is sound – but all good schools have programs that they are proud of. So what, in marketing terms, is our unique selling point?

The answer is in the things that are more difficult to measure and report on. Helena’s true value lies beyond grades and scores, encompassing the intangibles that shape a student’s character and lifelong success, such as:

• Character Development: We aim to nurture qualities like resilience, empathy, and ethics, which helps shape young people into become compassionate and principled individuals.

• Critical Thinking: A ‘big picture’ approach and inquiry-based learning empowers students to analyse, synthesise, and solve problems, preparing them for life’s complexities, while explicit teaching ensures they have a solid foundation in literacy and numeracy.

• Creativity: We work towards unlocking curiosity and hidden potential enables students to become artists, inventors, and visionaries by giving them opportunities to work on long-term personal projects.

• Communication Skills: We build confident communicators by encouraging active listening, empathy, and thoughtful debate.

• Emotional Intelligence: We help students to navigate big emotions with grace, cultivating empathy and resilience in safe environment, through programs designed by our College psychologists.

• Celebrating Diversity: By embracing cultural awareness, we can foster a global outlook and promotes positive change.

• Intrinsic Motivation: We believe that fostering a thirst for knowledge beyond rewards fuels lifelong learning.

• Ethical Values: Instilling integrity, responsibility, and honesty for compassionate citizenship is part and parcel of who we are.

Embracing the intangibles allows Helena College to enrich education, unlocking each student’s potential and shaping a brighter future for each of them.

The best way to get to know who we are, and what we stand for, is tour our College on a normal school day. You’ll see classes in action and hear from students and staff about what makes Helena College a special place to learn and grow. We encourage you to visit our website and to book your tour of our Junior School (Darlington Campus) today.

www.helenacollege.wa.edu.au

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

o Invisible braces (Smile Tru)

o Early correction of crowding, over & underbites

o Professional teeth whitening (Pola)

o Cosmetic dentistry

o Crowns / Veneers / Bridges

o Tooth coloured fillings

o Splints & sport mouthguards

o Muscle relaxants

Always welcoming new patients…

Dr Karl Bailey Dr Zuzia Zykus

Treetops | A Montessori and International Baccalaureate School

Art and Culture at Treetops

In Term 2 at Treetops, local Artist Dimity Gregson ran shibori workshops for our Secondary students. They were shown two different shibori tie dye techniques (arashi and itajime).

Arashi is the Japanese word for storm. The pattern created using this technique displays diagonal lines that can be likened to the driving rain of a heavy storm. The process of creating the arashi shibori involves wrapping your desired shirt or fabric around a pole, then scrunching and binding it with twine. It took some finesse, but our students quickly got the hang of it and were able to successfully transfer their newly developed skill to the other Secondary students and to staff members who got on board.

During NAIDOC week, our Years 3 – 6 students researched various native plants, animals, and weather patterns of the six Noongar seasons to choose for creating their lino print designs. This project saw them complete individual work that will be made into a large collaborative piece.

The itajime shibori involves folding the fabric between two pieces of wood, held in place with string. It creates a beautiful, often kaleidoscopic-like pattern that the students thoroughly enjoyed.

During this project, students used their creativity to explore and connect to Australia’s Indigenous culture. Learning through individual and collaborative research, enquiry and creativity really solidifies this connection, and deepens students’ understanding of and respect for history and culture.

Parkerville Steiner College | A

Compelling Alternative for High School in the Perth Hills Class 8: The Industrial Revolution

During the final Main Lesson of the term, Class 8 embarked on a journey to uncover the details of the transformative Industrial Revolution, a historical period that emerged in the wake of Europe's flourishing Renaissance era.

The students eagerly commenced their exploration by delving into the fascinating story of the Spinning Jenny, a groundbreaking invention hailing from Britain. Quite surprisingly, this incredible creation came into existence by sheer accident and played a pivotal role in heralding the epoch-shifting events of the Industrial Revolution.

The class analysed humanity's metamorphic passage from an agrarian-based society to one defined by burgeoning urbanisation and robust industrialisation. This transformation was brilliantly showcased through various technological advancements such as the famously revolutionary steam engine, along with inventions like the power loom and a plethora of vital agricultural innovations. This societal shift was also reflected in numerous contemporary artworks which captured the rapidly changing landscapes – masterpieces that the students meticulously scrutinised and appreciated.

Leaving behind Britain's storied shores, our adolescent explorers navigated across vast oceanic expanses to investigate Australia's experience during this influential period. They examined how industrialisation affected various aspects of contemporary life – encompassing realms such as travel, migration, communication, education, and mundane daily routines.

Characterised by a multitude of impassioned inclass discussions, the main lesson allowed these young minds to ruminate upon and fully grasp

the colossal impact that the Industrial Revolution continues to exert upon our modern world.

Join us on our next school tour to learn more about this outstanding education www.parkervillesteiner.wa.edu.au

In Steiner schools throughout the world, Winter is a time of wonder and joy and is celebrated every year with a magical Winter Festival. Here at Silver Tree, the Winter Festival is held as near as possible to the Winter Solstice, in the Noongar season of Makuru, when the sun sends the least power to the earth. The days are short, the nights are long, and we are reminded to hold the light for each other, and ourselves, as we journey through the coldest and darkest time of the year.

The centrepiece of the Winter Festival is the Spiral Walk. The spiral-shaped path is adorned with evergreen branches and candles and each child takes a turn walking the spiral, holding a lit candle. As they walk, they reflect on their own inner light and the warmth they bring to the world.

Additionally, a lantern walk through the forest takes place under the starry skies, where all our children and their families walk together, guided by the light of their handmade lanterns,

Silver Tree Steiner

whilst singing beautiful winter songs. Our lantern walk takes us through our bush village up to the huge bonfire, created just for the evening. Here we wait for the oldest children of the school, who have the great privilege of igniting the bonfire, by bringing the light to the fire. This is done every year with great reverence and care, and this year, by our Class 6 Lionhearts who were magnificent in their courage and precision. The Winter Festival provides an opportunity to celebrate the beauty of the winter season whilst fostering a sense of togetherness within our community.

Festivals are an integral part of Steiner Education as they provide the time and space to lift ourselves out of the ordinary routines of school and life and celebrate the seasonal shifts, and the gifts of nature whilst nurturing that very human need to come together in a meaningful way. Festivals such as these are a wonderful way to bring wonder and reverence to children, shaping their inner world with curiosity and spark and strengthening qualities.