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Feral pig problem.
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Mining will devastate forest says expert
Leading environmental scientist Professor Kingsley Dixon is adamant that lithium mining in the Dalgarup forest would destroy the internationally recognised biodiversity hotspot.
He says that Alcoa’s destruction of the jarrah forest in its quest for bauxite should serve as a warning against lithium mining in the 321 square kilometres of forest currently being sought for exploration licenses.
“You cannot reinstate the forest after mining. That is clear. It is an ancient forest with complexities that we cannot solve,” Professor Dixon said.
“We weren’t able to solve them when we started working on forest restoration almost 40 years ago in Kings Park.
“We still can’t solve lots of species we can’t get back, and we can’t get the processes to give us back the forest that we all love, which is great old trees, hollows with black cockatoos in them, wonderful big grass trees and zamia palms, which are all things that can live up to 300 years.
“These all vanish with mining, and you’ve just got to hope somehow, someday in the next very long while, someone comes up with a solution.
You cannot reinstate the forest after mining. That is clear.
“In a nutshell, when you mine the jarrah forest, it is a loss of that jarrah forest. It’s not going to come back.”
Exploration damage
He said that even the exploration phase has an environmental impact, with big machinery drilling holes, land clearing, and the danger of spreading dieback.
While exploration companies claim to comply with environmental standards for cleaning machinery to prevent dieback spread, “you have to trust them”.
“They all claim to operate those standards, but there are no regulators standing at a gate checking them for adhering soil or plant material that might bring the disease in.”
In ecological terms the area is still largely unexplored, according to Professor Dixon.
“The whole of the forest, has really not been adequately investigated in scientific terms.
Unknown Complexity
“We just don’t understand the complexity across this whole forest ecosystem.
“The further you get away from the population centres, the more it’s unknown, and likely to have all sorts of unique species, ecosystems and processes going on.
“It’s just a matter that we don’t have skills and the ability to do those identifications, and to understand, and we haven’t even started on the bulk of the animals, which are things such as the invertebrates, all the insects and stuff.”
He said that the region potentially had more plant species than the whole of England.
He’s adamant that open cut lithium mines can’t be rehabilitated with current technology and the impact on surrounding areas will be severe.
Professor Kingsley Dixon warns that lithium mining will cause irreversible damage to the region’s forests.
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Mining will devastate forest says expert
Heavy rainfall could create leeching and groundwater seepage, affecting the water table, while mining could also substantially increase the fire risk because the disturbance creates rapid plant growth.
“So, the net result, mining creates within a forest ecosystem substantial and lasting impact across almost every aspect of the way that forest operates.
Dust
Dust is another issue. He said it potentially contains heavy metals and other things. While the impact on plants isn’t understood, the evidence from iron ore mining is that it’s profound.
State and Federal environmental protection legislation offers little protection, he believes, and says the Federal Government may defer to the State Government.
“So, if the state approves that, the Feds will wash their hands of it. That’s becoming an easier process.”
He has little faith in environmental offsets, such as restoring other degraded areas, that are meant to compensate for unavoidable environmental impacts from mining.
“There’s not a single offset that we’ve seen in the southwest that’s been an effective net gain for anybody except for the companies.”
He thinks there are better and far less damaging ways to obtain the lithium the world needs for the energy transition, and says there’s large amounts of lithium in deserts.
He believes that’s a far better choice for future generations
FERAL PIGS A MAJOR PROBLEM
By Mark Schneider*
Feral pigs continue to be one of the biggest problems confronting farmers, while also causing great damage to the natural environment.
So they’re a major focus of Blackwood Biosecurity’s Operation Manager, Jason Dearle.
Mr Dearle said feral pigs are a problem that stretches from the Kimberley right through to the Great Southern, and have even reached the Esperance area for the first time recently.
Unlike rabbits, there are no biological controls, like calicivirus or myxomatosis, to control pigs because of the problem of potential diseases crossing over to other species or commercial pigs, and killing them.
Control methods
Instead, Blackwood Biosecurity relies on 1080 baiting, opportunistic shooting and trapping to control them.
1080 is by far the most effective weapon against them, Mr Dearle said.
“If we didn’t have the ability to use 1080 our native wildlife would be impacted severely by predatory animals such as cats and foxes.”
“Our natural waterways, and wetlands and pastures, and even livestock, such as newborn lambs would be impacted dramatically by feral pigs.”
So controlling them is vitally important work.
“Feral pigs will turn over the topsoil of paddocks in a farming situation, but also they can contaminate water sources by wallowing in dams and defecating in dams, which causes turbidity and contamination of water
“Other things too, such as damaging fences, damaging some infrastructure too, particularly around orchards where reticulation is put in.
‘In the natural environment they’re predating on water fowl eggs, predating on rare species of frogs as well as consuming a vast array of native plant species, some of which are endangered species.
“They’re destroying wetland riparian zones by digging and wallowing, rubbing up against trees ringbarking them.”
Spreading Dieback
They’re also spreading Phytophthora, or Jarrah Dieback.
“And the biggest threat from pigs, without any doubt, is if we had foot and mouth disease coming to Western Australia, they would be one of the greatest spreaders of it, being a cloven hooved animal.
“They cover vast distances and there’s no way of knowing where they are or how to contain them, or where to contain them.”
He said if pigs are a problem on your property you should call Blackwood Biosecurity who will set up a bait station, gather information on them and when they’re coming in and decide whether to bait, shoot, or trap them.
* Disclosure: Mark Schneider is a committee member of Blackwood Biosecurity.
The biggest threat from pigs, without any doubt, is if we had foot and mouth disease coming to Western Australia ...
Feral pig control is a big part of Jason Dearle’s work.
BRIDGETOWN’S REPAIR CAFE GIVING THINGS A SECOND LIFE
Local volunteers help repair everyday items, cut waste and build community spirit
Bridgetown’s regular Repair Café at the Shire’s Lesser Hall continues to bring the community together to share skills, save money and reduce waste.
At the latest session, held on Saturday 18th April, a steady stream of residents arrived with everything from toasters and water pumps to clothing repairs, all fixed by a keen team of skilled repairers.
It’s always a friendly community event where volunteers help people fix all manner of household items — so they stay in use longer and out of landfill.
Beyond the practical fixes, Repair Cafés encourage reuse and strengthen local connections.
GREENBUSHES PAVEMENT
UPGRADE
Greenbushes residents using the Blackwood Road footpath can tread a little easier now that the Shire has completed the upgrade of the footpath.
Residents had complained about uneven paths, trip hazards from tree roots, mixed surfaces and footpaths that stopped short - making it harder, and sometimes unsafe, to get around.
The Shire of Bridgetown Greenbushes said the newly constructed footpaths address these issues and the result is a safer, smoother and more welcoming place to walk.
“The completion of this project provides important improvements for the Greenbushes community, particularly for those with mobility issues and children, who can now enjoy safe movement through their township,” said Shire President Stephen Carstairs.
While the main works are now complete, a small number of minor finishing touches will be undertaken over the next couple of weeks to finalise the project.
With funding from Talison’s Community Investment Program, the Shire was able to invest in a long term improvement that supports everyday walking, accessibility and connection.
With input from a landscape architect, and funding from Talison Lithium, the Shire said it was guided by community input to refresh the streetscape in a way that respects Greenbushes’ character while improving how the area works for people moving through it.
There’s now brand new concrete footpaths on both sides of Blackwood Road, from the School and Community Hall right through to Spring Gully Road, with new walking connections that link to the Greenbushes Pool walking track.
Feature paving celebrates important buildings and places, and fresh landscaping including soft pea gravel has been placed around established box trees to protect roots.
Other landscaped areas have compacted gravel, while rain gardens help manage water, cool the street and add some greenery.
“With funding provided by Talison, Shire officers and external contractors have delivered a high-quality outcome that adds significantly to the amenity of Greenbushes. I now encourage the community to get out and enjoy it,” Mr Carstairs said.
Those attending were also treated to the usual delicious morning tea spread prepared by some of Bridgetown’s resident culinary geniuses.
Robyn Maher is a fan of the Repair Cafe.
The upgraded footpath in Blackwood Road is a step forward for Greenbushes.
Rob Gibb was fixing anything with wheels.
Bright new home for local artists
Bridgetown’s many artists have a bright new home for their work with the opening of the new, and very much improved, Rabbit Hole gallery on the 4th of April.
The Rabbit Hole’s committee members, Marie Munn and Wendy Sherlock, both artists themselves, are very happy with the new premises on Hampton Road that became available with the closure of the Sew Gentle Era business.
The Rabbit Hole’s former home of several years is now occupied by the BYA Op Shop.
Four years ago the Rabbit Hole was a private business owned by Jenny Mountford before she handed it over to the community as a not-for-profit enterprise run by a committee of local artists.
Today the gallery’s many shelves and walls are adorned with paintings, sculptures, mixed media work, photographs, jewellery and anything else that’s creative from 35 local artists from Bridgetown, Pemberton, Balingup and elsewhere in the Southwest.
A lot of hard work has clearly gone in to setting up such an impressive display.
“A solid two weeks every day,” said Ms Sherlock.
“We’d come here early in the morning and crawl home late at night,” agreed Ms Munn.
“It is great, we’re very lucky to get the building,” she added.
“It makes everything look so much nicer.”
They’re delighted by the public’s response, which they say has been excellent, and it’s really nice that the creative spirit of the building has been kept.
The artists, too, are very impressed.
“They’re all very pleased with how professionally their work is displayed,” Ms Sherlock said.
“They’re all very happy.”
‘And we’re all very grateful to all the artists’ commitment to the Rabbit Hole.
The new gallery is open from 10 - 2 on Thursdays and Fridays, and from 9.30 – 3 on Saturdays and Sundays.
Family memoir is a slice of local history
Hugh Browne’s book is steeped in Bridgetown history.
Prominent local farming identity Hugh Browne (84) can now add the title of author to his long list of achievements which includes farmer, firefighter, forester, councillor, ecotourist and horseman.
Usually a man of few words, Hugh found his fingers could not keep up when transferring his eight decades of memories and 200 years of family history to the printed page.
Or to be more exact, an iPad, and later a laptop computer. He turned to retired journalists Dennis and Lesleyann Lingane to get it on to paper.
The result is a 400-page book underpinned with historic and colour photographs that reads like an Australian version of James Herriot’s “All Creatures Great and Small” as Hugh writes entertainingly about a life connected to farming, forestry, firefighting, the animal kingdom and Bridgetown-Greenbushes country community.
He gives his livestock, horses, dogs, domestic cats and even the wildlife on his historic 800-acre property personalities with as much affection as he does his children and wife Melva.
Bureaucrats, bushfires and cyclones
He also spells out graphically how the family and farm has survived bureaucrats, bushfires and cyclonic storms.
The book, officially launched at a gathering of the family, extended family and community on the ANZAC long weekend.
It covers his family history from his great-great-grandfather in England, who was a lawyer and the coroner for Nottingham for more than 50 years and who added the “e” to the name of Brown, to the decision by his grandfather Hugh Browne to turn his back on the family law firm to become a farmer.
Taking this lowly career path they said would embarrass the family, and while he was allowed to go to Ag college, they insisted he ply his farming trade in another country.
He chose Australia, creating Maranup Ford farm in 1898 and building the historic homestead in 1917.
Thanks to a close bond with his father Bob Browne who shared his memories, Hugh has been able to detail how the original Hugh Browne took on the backbreaking work of clearing the bush to create a workable farm on the banks of the Blackwood River with basic tools, horses and determination.
The river was originally treated as an asset, but often became a formidable foe when flooding, and eventually had to be fenced off from stock as it became polluted.
Hugh is the third-generation Browne to become custodian of the property and is now happy to see the fourth and fifth generations of Brownes taking over and caring for what his grandfather created.
Son Andrew manages the farm, and daughter Cate the Maranup Ford Caravan Park. Grandson Chris has moved into the farm cottage and become involved in the community.
CONTINUED PAGE 7
Local artists Wendy Sherlock and Marie Munn are delighted with the Rabbit Hole’s new home.
Hugh Browne with his father Bob.
Bigger, better Op Shop open for business
There’s a real buzz of excitement when you walk down the steps into the new bigger and better BYA Op Shop in Hampton Street that the old Rabbit Hole Gallery used to call home.
The Op Shop has long been an important source of funding for Blackwood Youth Action, but the limited display area of the old shop restricted the amount of clothes and other merchandise they could have on display.
Today that’s all changed and you’ll find a vast array of men’s and women’s clothing to suit all ages, shoes, books, games and children’s toys, kitchenware, CDs and DVDs.
In short, there’s something for everyone.
Sue Lansley has been volunteering for BYA for more than three years and is enthusiastic about the new premises.
“It’s amazing! It’s op-shop prices but boutique vision,” she said.
“We’ve got really good quality items. Shoes that would have cost $150 you can get them brand new for $35.”
“There’s no need to go to Perth, to go to Bunbury - the stuff is just totally amazing - shoes, manchester, clothing and we’ve got a new section here for the young as well.”
Indeed, when the Bridgetown-Greenbushes Star called in there was a steady stream of enthusiastic young people hunting for a bargain.
“They love thrift shops, and some of them as they come down the stairs you can see them smile.”
But it’s also a great opportunity for the young people who volunteer their time to work in the BYA shop.
She said you can see the changes in them when they start volunteering.
“They’ve got such creativity and you can see how happy they are and excited to use that creativity.”
It’s been particularly valuable for young people with autism.
“It’s such a joy to see them, they get so enthusiastic.”
Fellow volunteer Sue Moscarda is equally enthusiastic about the new shop
“Everyone is so excited to come down because they’ve been waiting such a long time for it to open
Being a slow thinker, my single finger could keep up quite well. I don’t know now if it’s because I think a little faster but I need two fingers to keep up - but I still make lots of mistakes.
… and it’s just a nicer shop to look around, isn’t it?” Ms Moscarda said.
The Op Shop’s move to the Rabbit Hole’s old premises, meant the Rabbit Hole had to find new premises for itself at the former home of the Sew Gentle Era.
But it’s a move has clearly resulted in better and more suitable homes for both organisations.
Or as Dennis says ‘building a book’.
“He says it is no different to any other skill including building a house – he equates words to bricks, photos to windows and pallets of bricks to chapters.
He was asked how long it took to create this local historical memoir that embraces anecdotes about so many local Greenbushes and Bridgetown events and identities to whom he seems to be related.
“I’m not really sure when I got serious about it. Just for something to do I had played around on an iPad when we were on a cruise six or eight years ago. After a very trying time I produced a couple of short bits.
“I went out on a limb and bought a laptop and, with some help from Google Chrome and family archives, turned out a few more little stories as I researched family history back to the 1800s.
“When I started to write about the farm not for one moment did I see anything like we have got now, and for that I have to thank Dennis and Lesleyann Lingane – I am deep in their debt.
“I approached them five months ago after they had spent a year helping David Bardsley with his two books and they insisted they had no time and needed a break.
“I wore them down and when I watched them turn my thousands of words and box full of historic family photos into what I now have as a finished product I realised how much goes into creating a book.
‘They just have to be rearranged to be attractive to the eye and easy to live with when turning the pages’, he says.
Lesleyann is a dedicated wordsmith and lectures me on one hand about my grammar and then on the other hand insists she must not lose my voice.”
Asked what comes next Hugh said: “I’ve reached a stage now that I would like to write more, there is such a lot to life.
“Where that will lead? I don’t know. Perhaps I’m a bit too sentimental and I have enough to handle in this day and age.”
Volunteers Sue Lansley and Sue Moscarda are enthusiastic about the new shop.
Story and Photo By Shannon Lawson
PUZZLETOWN HAS ALL THE PIECES IN PLACE
The recently renovated Puzzletown is looking great.
The newly renovated Puzzletown Bridgetown welcomed visitors for a sneak-peek on its’ open day on Saturday, April 18, as part of Heritage Week 2026.
The non-profit organisation has a rich history, which coordinator Tessa Dittrich and the other volunteers love to share with visitors.
Those who haven’t stepped inside the former petrol station and Tourist Centre in its current incarnation as a puzzle museum and jigsaw manufacturing operation will be amazed at the breadth of what’s on show and the interesting history of the place.
It all began in 1978 when local guest house owner, Mrs Jessie Brierley, donated her extensive collection of framed jigsaw puzzles to the community.
These were housed in what was then the Tourist Centre.
Mrs Brierley even provided funds for carpeting and lining the gallery, which was officially opened in November 1979.
It’s said Mrs Brierley used puzzle making as entertainment and a method of keeping her lodgers ‘out of trouble’. Which could be why she accumulated such a large array.verument.
The collection continues to expand through gifts and donations from visitors, as does the work of conservation and mounting new jigsaws.
“Big bottles of PVC are our best friends,” Ms Dittrich laughed.
Although the building has seen many changes over the years, the recent renovations honour its history, even retaining some of the funky striped carpet Mrs Brierly donated funds for in the 70s.
The official re-opening of Puzzletown will be in September 2026, when locals and visitors will be able to see how Mrs Brierley’s legacy has been honoured and enabled to continue well into the future.
Volunteers Eileen Kneale, Tessa Dittrich and Peta Westbrook in the area of Puzzletown which houses Mrs Jessie Brierley’s historic jigsaw collection.
RUN ARMY RAISES FUNDS FOR LEGACY
Forty-odd runners set off on a crisp Sunday morning raising funds for Legacy as part of the Australia-wide Run Army on the 19th of April in the run up to Anzac Day.
It’s a way for people to come together in a fun run event to thank those who commit their lives to protecting others.
The run was split over a 2.5km event and a 5km run for the seriously committed and was led off by a particularly enthusiastic group of youngsters.
The first runner crossed the line in an impressive 12.08 trailed by a group of determined kids.
They were encouraged along the way by the Vice President of the Bridgetown RSL, Robert Robb who kept up the enthusiasm with a stream of commentary while handing out water.
“She’s looking really sharp this morning – making me jealous.”
“That dog’s looking great!”
“There’s a few good-looking bodies out today. Indeed there were.
The event was in its second year and raised $2,000.
“A pretty good effort”, according to Mr Robb.
He thanked the community who had donated water, banners and signs for the event.
Run Army aims to raise vital funds for Legacy and to encourage Australians to honour the service and sacrifice of veterans’ families ahead of Anzac Day.
The event also builds community spirit by giving people of all ages a welcoming reason to get active, share a meaningful morning together and show practical support for those who have served.
Participants are encouraged to run, donate and reflect.
It’s
a way for people to come together in a fun run event to thank those who commit their lives to protecting others . They’re off in the 2.5km run!
Robert Robb provided encouragement.
BLESSING OF THE ROADS
“Country roads take me home
To the place I belong West Australia, Blackwood Valley Take me home country roads.”
The Jubilee Singers set the scene for this year’s Blessing of the Roads Ceremony on the 1st of April with their homespun adaptation of John Denver’s classic song.
Road safety was on everyone’s mind when the Shire, police, schools, and the Reverend David Bardsley gathered together in the Shire Hall to call for care and consideration on our roads in the lead-up to Easter.
Deputy Shire President Rebecca Redman spoke about the importance of personal goals for road safety and the need for community to support our volunteer ambulance officers in their vital work.
“Road safety is up to all of us,” she said.
The many distractions in modern cars was one of the themes of Senior Constable Dylan Jones’ speech along with the vital importance of seat belts.
“How hard is it to put your seatbelt on? They save lives,” he said.
He added that he couldn’t stress the importance of road safety enough, and that he didn’t want to tell people their loved ones had been killed.
Students from the Bridgetown, Greenbushes and St Brigid’s Primary Schools, along with the High School spoke about seat belts saving lives, the dangers of fatigue and speeding, and the ever-present threat of distraction on the roads.
Finally the Reverend David Bardsley spoke about his own recent near-miss on the roads before leading those attending in a prayer for safety on the roads, the virtues of patience, common sense, care, vigilance and awareness, and for the blessing of emergency services workers.
The ceremony was followed by morning tea in the Lesser Hall prepared by the Bridgetown CWA.
Reverend David Bardsley led a prayer for safety on the roads.
Left: The Jubilee Singers
Stations of the Cross unifies Christians
Bridgetown’s Christian community came together on Good Friday at the Memorial Park for the Stations of the Cross in the traditional ceremony marking Christ’s journey to crucifixion.
The ceremony reaches back to the early Christian pilgrims visiting Jerusalem and traces the path Jesus walked from Pilate’s house to Calvary, with followers pausing for prayer along the way.
It’s a practice now followed around the world and a spiritual pilgrimage helping followers to meditate on the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus.
The Stations of the Cross helps the faithful reflect on personal sin, repentance and the call to follow Christ’s lead of endurance and love.
The ceremony was led by Reverend David Bardsley, who summed up its relevance to the modern world’s troubles in one word.
“Love - in a word - love, that’s the only thing I can put it down to,” Reverend Bardsley said.
“That’s what we celebrate on this Good Friday is the love of God for his people and that we are created to love each other, not to fight each other, and if we should follow the lead of Jesus in the way of humility and peace we would have a better world – the world as it was created to be, not as we made it.”
He was pleased with the turnout, but would always like to see more, and added that he was always working towards more interdenominational events in Bridgetown to bring the Christian community together in the love of Jesus.
“We’re getting together much more these days, celebrating a unity in Christ which is the answer to Jesus’ prayer the day before he died, he was crucified, he prayed that all his people would be one, and we’re working towards that end.”
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The Stations of the Cross was an appropriately spiritual start to Easter for Bridgetown’s Christians.
It’s all smiles at the Men’s Shed for these gentlemen.
Men’s shed wants some new mates
Bridgetown’s Men’s Shed is keen to see some new younger faces about the place.
After 20 years Bridgetown’s Men’s Shed is still getting men together to make all manner of things in timber with their hands while building friendships, support and mental health in the process.
Step into their Peninsula Street workshop and you’ll find a very well-equipped workshop with
all the tools you could ever need, whether you’re contemplating the most ambitious wood-working project, or just some simple repairs.
It’s a long, long way from your typical backyard shed and clearly a home-away-from-home for the 18-odd active members and familiar faces who regularly use it.
But there’s no doubt that most of those faces have clocked up a few years and the members would really like to encourage some younger men to come along.
Rob Gibb is just one of them who’d like to see some new young faces in the shed to see what others are doing, learn things “and generally look after themselves”.
It’s excellent for improving men’s mental health and providing support for those who’ve lost their way through grief and other problems
“Repairing things about the house, making projects and doing community service,” are what the Men’s Shed is all about, he said.
It’s a great place to learn some new skills from some experienced hands and he thinks it would particularly suit younger men on fly-in-fly-out rosters with time on their hands when they’re not working.
Mental Health
He stresses that it’s not all hard work by any means, and that the “hour long smokos don’t go astray either.”
They’re a great chance to relax and chat with other men, and they’re great for mental health.
In fact Men’s Shed President Rod McCormack found joining the Men’s Shed was just what the Doctor ordered when the Men’s Shed provided the support he needed when he found himself “down in the dumps” after the death of his wife.
“It’s the best thing I ever did,” Mr McCormack said, adding that it’s excellent for improving men’s mental health and providing support for those who’ve lost their way through grief and other problems.
The Men’s Shed is open on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8am – 12pm.
FESTIVAL OF COUNTRY GARDENS
This year’s Festival of Country Gardens is bound to delight garden lovers with a riot of amazing colour this Autumn.
Twelve beautiful gardens will be on display throughout the Blackwood Valley and Southern Forest regions.
You’re invited to wander the gardens, soak up the glorious atmosphere and draw some inspiration for your own gardening passions.
SATURDAY MAY 3rd - SUNDAY MAY 4th
CATALPA: FLIGHT TO FREEDOM
CELEBRATION OF VOLUNTEERS
Bridgetown’s volunteers will get the recognition they deserve when the Shire of Bridgetown Greenbushes hosts the Annual Celebration of Volunteers event in the Shire Hall.
It’s a free event supported by National Volunteer Week and Lotterywest Come and celebrate with supper, live music and an award ceremony.
RSVP to tlansdell@bridgetown.wa.gov.au
THURSDAY MAY 21st 6-8pm Shire Hall
FORD HOUSE GARDEN FAIR
What better way to celebrate Autumn than a leisurely stroll round the gardens of Bridgetown’s historic Ford House beside the beautiful Blackwood River?
CT Gardens will be there with an exciting range of plants that are sure to inspire some great ideas for your own garden. There’ll be gardening wares, mosaics and more, as well as fabulous food for all from The Forrest Kitchen.
SATURDAY MAY 2nd
CATALPA: FLIGHT TO FREEDOM IT’S FOOTBALL TIME! LLAMA LOUNGE MUSIC
“CATALPA: Flight to Freedom tells the true story of the daring 1876 rescue of six Irish Fenian prisoners from Fremantle Prison aboard the American ship Catalpa. Combining live performance and cinematic imagery, the play explores espionage, courage, international intrigue, sacrifice, resilience and the enduring fight for political freedom and human dignity.”
It’s a performance that promises to bring the Town Hall alive.
SATURDAY MAY 30th 7-9pm Bridgetown Town Hall
Here’s where to catch the Bulldogs in action this month:
2nd May 2.30pm Deanmill vs Bridgetown Deanmill Football Club
9th May Bye
16th May 2.30pm Bridgetown vs Boyup
Brook
Bridgetown Sports Oval
23rd May 2.30pm Southerners vs Bridgetown Pemberton Oval
30th May Bye
The Llama Lounge is one of Bridgetown’s best entertainment venues with great drinks, food, vinyl records and live music. Don’t miss local legends Blackwood Rising on the 23rd of May, or Hugh Jennings and Elk Bell on the 2nd of May. Hugh and Elk have performed together on many occasions, including a dual album launch. They’re currently working on a series of duets.
LIVE MUSIC EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT
Su Berghuis-Garde inspired by travels
Bridgetown painter has always sought the creative life.
Su Berghuis-Garde must have paint running through her veins. She’s been artist since she was “very small.”
“I was aware of wanting to draw forever. When I was seven I wrote that when I was a grown-up I was going to be an artist,” she said.
While she’s had her share of “dodgy jobs” it’s always art that’s drawn her back, whether as an art teacher, part owner of the Cyrillean Gallery in Dunsbrough, or as a working artist.
She also opened her own gallery, Tinkahill in Bridgetown, with her former husband John Garde.
Her formative high school years were spent in Singapore, where its vibrant mix of cultures would go on to play such an important role in her later artistic work.
Singapore
“Wherever you walked you’d be hit by a Chinese opera or a shadow puppet, or the different smells of the different cooking and the smells of joss sticks or incense, and as a child or teenager I wound up asking questions, and I think it’s continued to influence the way I sometimes compose my work, my colours, my subject matter.
“It’s a way for me to connect with that place.”
In a well-travelled life she’s also been to France and Scotland and taken in the work of well-known painters who have moved her in a way she didn’t expect.
She enjoys surprising herself in her art, using her observational drawing skills but “breaking the rules” and using different mediums to produce abstract works.
Arts and Writing
Ambiguity and language intrigues her, leading her to a degree in visual arts and creative writing, and these days she’s tending towards abstract paintings while still returning to observational works.
She was drawn to Bridgetown because of the countryside’s beauty and the fact that at the time real estate was reasonably affordable.
“It’s not always the way but traditionally artists have settled for less financial security than people with proper jobs, so they could afford a really nice house and a garden with the life that they chose.”
Seasons
The continual change of the seasons with its colours and atmosphere is an inspiration.
“It’s just beautiful. We came here because it reminded us of the Adelaide hills, where we’d both grown-up.”
I was aware of wanting to draw forever. When I was seven I wrote that when I was a grownup I was going to be an artist.
She’s an enthusiastic supporter of the Art Trail, saying it gives herself and other artists an important opportunity to show their work in an informal setting and chat to visitors, which she clearly loves doing.
“It’s very important to have a concentration of energy in a short space of time.”
While it’s taken some of the emphasis away from the big galleries she thinks it’s OK to share the attention around.
“We all go through big changes in our lives and without a doubt being able to draw, or paint, or print, or stitch helps hold me together.
“And I think most artists would agree with that, it’s part of a practice, it’s a practice that we do because we’re curious, but it’s also something that we do to connect with each other, the wider community and a deeper part of ourselves.”
lives.
PHOTO: MARK SCHNEIDER
Arts Trail helps local artist thrive
Things changed when he got to Bridgetown.
As a kid I loved painting and creating things with my hands.
The Arts Trail has been kind to local artist Michael Miller.
Michael Miller has always loved art but life has sometimes got in the way of artistic passion.
“As a kid I loved painting and creating things with my hands, but then life takes over and you have a mortgage and children and responsibilities and the art stuff gets left in the shed.
But he kept dabbling throughout his adult life whenever he got the opportunity.
“Moving to Bridgetown has really helped because I’ve got the time, I’ve got the space and I’ve kind of found a bit of a community that really supports artists, so it’s been a chance to renew that passion,” he said.
He moved from North Fremantle to Bridgetown with his wife Simone just under four years ago.
He’d lived in the region before, helping to run a farm in Middlesex before moving to Pemberton, and really enjoyed it. Welcoming community
He’s found a welcoming community of fellow artists and shops prepared to have his art on their walls for sale for no commission.
“The council was kind enough to buy a few pieces when we first arrived and had them in the library, and the Arts Trail has been great,” he said.
In the first six days he had 30-odd visitors walk through the door of his Carey Street home and was anticipating more over the Easter long weekend.
The Art Trail has been kind to him.
“I’ve done quite well over the past two years prior to this and even this year, despite the small numbers I’ve actually had quite a bit of success – I’m really happy with my sales currently – yeah, it’s been good.”
His work is a combination of abstract and contemporary art depicting wildflowers of the region. Some of it is on the large side.
“I’ve always liked painting large and after painting some murals in the health food shop I thought ‘aahh, I actually really enjoy that
“And it might not work for a lot of people’s houses being that large but the occasional person will see them and they’ll have the space and purchase them.
“But I have got a variety, I’ve got a room of much smaller paintings, and I’ve sold several there as well. He think that variety helps him cater for a lot of people with different size homes, and he enjoys a break from his big works.
“After doing a big painting in my studio I think occasionally I’ll do something small just to chill out and relax – something to take you a day, rather than a week.
NEW BLOOD DONATION RULES EXPAND ELIGIBILITY FOR GAY AND BISEXUAL MEN
New blood donation eligibility rules have taken effect in Australia, safely paving the way for gay and bisexual men and transgender people in long-term monogamous relationships to donate blood and platelets.
Now all donors will be asked the same sexual activity questions in the pre-donation questionnaire, regardless of gender.
The change is part of Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s ongoing work to make donation more inclusive while maintaining the safety of donated blood.
It follows changes to sexual activity rules for plasma donation in July 2025, which have enabled 3000 new donors to give close to 10,000 plasma donations to date.
Lifeblood Chief Executive Officer Stephen Cornelissen AM said this was an important milestone for blood donation in Australia.
“Previous donor rules prevented many people from the LGBTQIA+ community from donating blood or platelets if they’d had sex within the past three months,” Mr Cornelissen said.
“These latest changes mean many gay and bisexual men and transgender people in long-term, monogamous relationships will become eligible to donate blood or platelets for the first time.
Mr Cornelissen said patient safety would always be Lifeblood’s top priority, and some people will still need to wait to donate blood.
“Under the updated rules, most people in longterm monogamous relationships will be able to donate blood, and many who remain ineligible will be able to donate plasma instead.
“We know previous rules have been difficult for people in the LGBTQIA+ community, so we’d like to thank them for their support during this journey towards a more inclusive donation experience.
Lifeblood’s submission to change sexual activity eligibility rules for blood donation was approved by Australia’s regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in 2025, and included the latest research, risk modelling and community feedback.
It’s expected up to 20,000 extra donations of blood will be made each year as part of this change.
Every week 33,000 donations of blood plasma and platelets are needed across Australia to help those undergoing cancer treatment, people with bleeding disorders, trauma and accident victims and many more.
To donate blood, visit www.lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95.
An important milestone for blood donation in Australia
For advertising features that really punch through, you can rely on the Bridgetown-Greenbushes Star
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e secret is to talk to your customers without all that obvious selling, and the key to achieving it is to tap into their needs
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Bridgetown’s River Park was a petrol-head’s paradise early on Sunday the 19th of May when
50 classic cars ranging from a 1926 Bentley to a Ferrari 308 assembled for a run down the main street before heading to Greenbushes.
They motored back to the Town Square opposite the railway station later, putting on a fine display.
Local motoring enthusiast Evan Edwards was clearly enthusiastic.
“We need to get more cars out – this is a way of getting them out of the woodwork, and it’s wonderful,” he said.
So how many cars does he have?
“The number keeps changing to save the marriage,” he said.
They include a Bentley and a Renault R16, and at least one other car he won’t admit to owning.
Classic cars on display
Perry Lawrence and his E-Type Jaguar
Fifty classic cars made a fine display of automotive history.
A 1926 Bentley was the oldest car on display.
Right: The family that Volvos together stays together.
Left: He had to get under, get out and get under.
Above: Who’s driving then?
BULLDOGS SEASON STARTS
• 2nd May-Deanmill vs Bridgetown
• 16th May - Country & Western Night
• 6th June - Ladies’ Day
• 1st August Superkids Superheroes
A rain-soaked start to the day didn’t dampen participants’ enthusiasm for this year’s Rotary Tour of the Blackwood.
MUD SWEAT AND GEARS IN ROTARY BIKE TOUR
Riders in this year’s Rotary Tour of the Blackwood got off to a soggy start, defying the wet weather as they headed down roads and gravel tracks, raising over $75,000 for mental health in the process.
Tour Chair Colin Booth said the decision to run the Tour in spite of Cyclone Narelle was made on Thursday after looking at many weather and cyclone tracking sites with fingers crossed.
“All riders were very appreciative of us going ahead with the event although we had quite a few late withdrawals,” he said.
215 riders braved the 130km of the Full Tour, 92 participated in the Half ‘n’ Best, 29 took the relatively easy 30km of the Not So Cozy, while 128 determined souls tackled the muddy trails of the 92km Numbat Gravel Experience.
The riders weren’t the only ones braving the wet conditions, with many volunteers providing much-needed food and drink to grateful participants.
All up $75,666 was raised to help important mental health projects including The Bridgetown Greenbushes Suicide Prevention Network and Blackwood Youth Action.
It’s vitally important work, as mental illness remains the leading cause of death for Australia’s young people.
The money raised gives the region’s young people access to essential psychological support, including individualised counselling for those in need.
The Bridgetown-Greenbushes Suicide Prevention Network aims to prevent suicide by
raising awareness, building capacity, fostering collaboration, and improving access to local services.
It aims to reduce the stigma of mental health and in doing so encourage people to seek help when they need it.
“The Rotary Club would like to thank everyone involved in running to tour, Mr Booth said
“The volunteers are amazing, especially those road marshals and the ones manning water stops on a cold morning with the odd shower of rain.
“The encouragement from them to the riders was appreciated and many riders reported that it really helped.
“The sweep vehicles and motor crew ensured riders were safe and assisted with punctures and exhaustion.”
Easter Tennis Action
“It’s friendly and welcoming and I always have a great time here.” CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE
He also tasted victory in the Men’s Doubles Division 1, and the Mixed Doubles Division 1, combining with Tara Gilich to defeat Mason Grosse and Ella Nurkic.
It was a different story in the Women’s Singles, however, where Ella Nurkic continued her winning ways, completing a hattrick of victories in the event at the Easter Tournament by defeating Peta Taylor.
Next year marks the 100th anniversary of the Bridgetown Lawn Tennis Club, and the organisers and volunteers will be marking the historic occasion in style.
Women’s Singles Champion Ella Nurkic is making a habit of winning at Bridgetown.
Tim Gray was in fine form.
EASTER TENNIS ACTION
The 94th Bridgetown Easter Tournament brought 296 competitors to the courts of the historic Bridgetown Tennis Club in what was a huge effort for the 30-odd members on a busy weekend.
Among the winners was former professional player Tim Gray, who
defeated Nicholas De Lima in the men’s Single Final.
He’s been coming to Bridgetown’s Easter Tournament with his family for the last five years and loves the town and the event.
“It’s friendly and welcoming and I always have a great time here,” Mr Gray said.
The atmosphere is clearly a lot more relaxed than it was in the playing days of his professional career.
“There’s less pressure – I still want to win but I don’t have too many expectations and it’s a bit more relaxed,” he said.
“Touring professionally was pretty brutal with its logistics and prize money.
“It’s definitely not as glamorous as it sounds.”
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Tim Gray reaches for a winner against Nicholas De Lima in the Mens Singles Final.