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May Editor: Ursula Sharman | urshiebear@me.com | 0408 956 692
June Editor: Chris Durrant | chrisctd@bigpond.com | 9299 6093
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EDITORIAL
Ursula Sharman | May Editor
Ursula is a proud Darlington resident who is passionate about community life, local history and the beauty of hills living. A wife, and mother of three young children, she fell in love with Darlington’s charm - especially a character home surrounded by an established garden, full of wildlife.
Djeran: When the First Rains Return
We are now well into the Noongar season of Djeran, a time when the intense heat of summer eases, giving way to cooler nights and dewy mornings. Cerise-flowering eucalypts are in bloom, and the air is alive with the flutter of flying ants. Burrowing frogs are beginning to call for a mate, about to commence their annual breeding cycle.
For the Whadjuk Noongar people, Djeran was a time of gathering and preparation. Seeds from the Zamia palm, harvested earlier, are now carefully processed and eaten. Mia-Mias (shelters) are repaired and strengthened in readiness for the rainy season ahead.
By attuning ourselves to the rhythms of the land, we honour the wisdom of the Noongar people and their deep connection to country.
Local Darlington burrowing frog makes an appearance after light rains Darlington Red-flowering yellow gum blooming in Djeran
Some of the local residents who spoke on the childcare proposal at Mundaring Council including (at centre) DRRA’s Deputy Chair Raymond
Council rejects Childcare Proposal
At the Shire of Mundaring Council meeting on Tuesday, 8th April, following 14 deputations (12 from Darlington residents and two from the proponents), Councillors unanimously rejected (on planning grounds) the planning officers’ recommendation to support a proposed 80-place childcare centre at 1 Amherst Avenue, Darlington.
This outcome, while not a final decision, showed councillors clearly took the time to read the submissions, visit the site, engage with the issues, and vote with diligence and transparency. Although the proposed site sits within a residential zone, Child Care Premises is a permissible use with approvals.
Over the public consultation period, 59 submissions were received, and well over 50 were opposed to the applicants proposed commercial childcare development. While many submissions acknowledged the benefit of childcare in Darlington, the proposed location – directly adjacent to overcapacity primary school, with two blind corners, and on a constrained no-through residential street – was deemed not to be an appropriate location for a development of this scale and nature. Numerous submitters raised concerns about traffic congestion, safety risks, bushfire safety and evacuation, and the impact on the amenity and character of the surrounding locality.
Deputations presented from residents, parents and teachers all raised well considered points - not from a place resistant to change, but from lived experience and concerns the development might not respect the scale, context and location proposed.
The 2 deputations from the proponents, representing the developer Briscola Pty Ltd spoke in favour of the application stating the development had compliance to most planning standards, there would be sufficient parking and noise mitigation measures, and that the site was assessed with a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating of 12.5 (low risk of fire damage, primarily ember attack and heat flux of up to 12.5kW/M2). However, the
development would be built to a BAL 29, a higher protection rating, capable of withstanding a greater level of heat flux.
Considering childcare is a vulnerable use, concerns were raised that the applicant provided no emergency access despite having 3 road frontages. The Bushfire Emergency Evacuation Plan (BEEP) was relying on two hire buses to be redirected from primary use and made immediately available to attend and facilitate evacuation of up to 80 young children and 12 staff off site in an emergency.
Briscola Pty Ltd highlighted that Shire of Mundaring Childcare planning policy stated preference for childcare centres to be situated near by a shopping centre, an educational establishment, offices, or other commercial uses.
The applicants’ plans illustrate a single-story building on Amherst Avenue. However, when viewed from Glen Road the structure will appear as a two-storey building. This visual effect is due to the slopping topography of the block (falling 7 meters from North to South), requiring an excessive amount of retaining walls. One councillor commented ‘’at the lowest point on Glen Road it will be equivalent of 5 sea containers tall” which suggests it will have significant impact on the amenity of the area.
Residents, teachers and parents making deputations at the Council meeting noted that at peak hours the congestion in Amherst Ave was already significant and an estimated traffic increase of 25% would exacerbate the already existing problem.
The Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association emphasised that Darlington would welcome a childcare centre, but only in a safe location, that did not have a negative effect on amenity.
The application now proceeds to the Metro Outer Development Assessment Panel (DAP), on the 1st of May (after this publication has gone to print) where five members – two local government and three independent specialists – will determine the final decision.
Leclezio, Chair Louise Stelfox and Secretary Karen Gray
Tiny Beetle, Big Threat: What Darlington Needs to Know About PSHB
There’s a tiny invader that’s causing big problems across parts of Perth – and it’s one we in the Hills should be paying close attention to. The Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB), Euwallacea fornicatus might sound like something from an entomologist’s crossword puzzle, but this minuscule beetle has the potential to drastically alter our treescapes, ecosystems, and urban shade cover. The first name of this pest says it all - Polyphagous, with poly meaning ‘many’ and phagous meaning ‘eating and feeding’ – a fitting description for a beetle with an alarming ability to attack more than 500 known plant species.
This highly invasive beetle is roughly the size of a sesame seed, a native to Southeast Asia and first detected and reported to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) by a resident in East Fremantle in August 2021 when she noticed unusual holes in her backyard Maple Trees. It has since spread all over the Perth Metropolitan Area, most likely as unknown stowaway in firewood and plant material, assisted by humans, because this tiny beetle can only fly an average of 40 meters.
Darlington, with its mix of native bush, ornamental gardens, and preferred host species, could be particularly vulnerable. To date there have been no detections of PSHB in the Shire of Mundaring, including Darlington. Whilst many tree species can be impacted by the beetle, it has a preferred menu of hosts –mainly targeting and heavily infesting these species first. Box Elder Maples are extremely susceptible, but other top hosts include the Coral tree, Moreton Bay Fig, Port Jackson Fig, Black Locust, London Plane tree, Poinciana, Avocado, Mulberry, Common Fig, Chinese Wisteria, and Mirror Bush.
Interestingly the beetles do not kill the tree directly but cultivate a fungus, a species of Fusarium, as a food source by boring tunnels internally, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients, with some trees becoming so heavily infested it leads to dieback and tree death. Detection of PSHB can be difficult, as they are very small - the adult female, the largest, measures just 2mm in length, is brown to black in colour, and spends most of her lifecycle inside the host plant.
The spread of Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) is primarily caused by human activity, particularly through the movement of infested plants, firewood, green waste, and woodchips.
Polyhagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) image via Entomology Today Map
Large Darlington Fig tree species, a preferred host of PSHB
To help prevent its spread, strict quarantine rules must be followed:
• Buy firewood where you burn it – do not transport unseasoned (less than 6 months) firewood between areas.
• Do not move living plants with stems greater than 2 cm in diameter.
• Woodchips must be chipped to pieces smaller than 2.5 cm.
• Machinery used to handle wood or plant material must be cleaned before moving into a new quarantine zone.
The DPIRD has established strict quarantine regulations across the entire Perth Metropolitan area, divided into Zone A and Zone B. Darlington is located in Zone B. While it is permitted to move wood, green waste, and plant material from Zone B into Zone A, items cannot be moved from Zone A into Zone B without a DPIRD inspection and permit.
Recently it was reported a new chemical trial undertaken by the City of Canning had success using a small insecticide and
The Hidden Heroes in our Community: A Spotlight on the Darlington Hub Admin
This May we celebrate Volunteer Week, a time to acknowledge the many individuals in our community who dedicate their time and energy to making our Darlington village thrive. While most of our volunteers are visible – coaching and supporting sports teams, maintaining natural bushland and rejuvenating ecosystems, organising community events, promoting the arts or helping advocate for local matters –others work quietly in the background, ensuring the smooth operation of essential community spaces.
One such role, often overlooked, is that of the admin for the Darlington Hub Facebook page. If you have ever been searching for an owner of a lost pet, received recommendations for a local tradie, or read important community notices, chances are you have benefitted from the work of the Darlington Hub admin. This online space is more than just a noticeboard it is a virtual village town square, where locals connect, share news, and seek help.
But what does it take to oversee and moderate on this online hub? To find out, I asked Bree Sotirakoglou and Heidi Jannette,
fungicide capsule internally placed in infested trees which are now showing no signs of live beetles or larvae. Hopefully, we can find effective solutions to eradicate this pest before it devastates more trees and impacts agricultural production.
DPIRD conducts PSHB surveillance and trapping in the Shire of Mundaring, but community awareness remains crucial. Residents can help first by identifying if they have a preferred host species, then monitoring and reporting entry or exit holes in trunks (about the size of a ballpoint pen tip), and looking for signs of galleries in pruned branches - gumming, frass, or dark staining around entry points to DPIRD for further investigation.
DPIRD website has comprehensive articles, fact sheets and information.
Have you seen something suspicious on your trees? Check the DPIRD website or report sightings through MyPestGuide Reporter.
https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/borer
two current admins of the Darlington Hub, who shared insights into the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of managing this essential volunteer role.
Why They Stepped Up
Both Bree and Heidi first became admins because they recognised how important the Hub had become in their own lives.
Bree explained, “I used the Hub a lot as a Darlington resident, so when a volunteer call went out last year to keep the page from being archived – and only one person put their hand up – I was happy to help.”
Similarly, Heidi felt drawn to support a resource she valued: “I’d become so reliant on it as a source of information since moving here. It felt like an essential community service that needed to continue.”
Behind the Scenes: The Role of an Admin
Managing the Darlington Hub involves much more than simply clicking “approve” on posts.
Bree outlined her duties: “Reviewing member requests, filtering spam, handling reported content, and ensuring posts meet the group rules. We also recently introduced anonymous posting based on community feedback.” Without a formal handover from the original (anonymous) admins, Bree and Heidi have been tasked with maintaining – and evolving – the Hub through community input.
Heidi added, “We protect people’s identities, make sure no one posts licence plates or personal information, and prevent scams and fraud. Manners are a big deal too – it’s about setting the tone for the community.”
Automation tools, like Admin Assist, help reduce some of the manual workload, but there’s still plenty of daily monitoring involved.
Challenges and Surprises
Moderating an active community page comes with inevitable challenges.
Heidi Jannette - Darlington Hub Admin
For Bree, the biggest challenge has been staying impartial: “Not sharing my opinion when moderating. I’m learning on the job – I’d never managed a Facebook group before.”
Heidi pointed to something a bit thornier: “The abuse can be vile at times. Some people deliberately flout the Hub rules because they don’t agree with them or just don’t care.” She also emphasised the importance of separating personal views from admin duties, saying, “You have to constantly check your own standing on an issue against the group’s agreed rules.”
Memorable
Moments: The Good, the Bad, and the Heartwarming
Both admins have had experiences that stood out. Bree shared, “One situation that stands out never even made it to posting – I’m constantly surprised by how reactive people can be.”
Heidi recalled a moment when the community truly rallied: “Someone complained about a beloved service provider in town and the whole Hub took them to task. It was heartening to see the community self-moderate when it mattered.”
On the lighter side, both admins agree that the heartwarming posts make it all worthwhile. Bree said she loves seeing “difficult conversations take place respectfully with positive outcomes,” while Heidi fondly remembered the outpouring of support for the local postie during a scorching summer: “People invited him in to refill water bottles, dip his head in the pool, or just hose down. That generosity was beautiful to see.”
The Commitment: How Much Time Does It Take?
The time commitment varies. Some weeks it’s just a couple of hours; other weeks it can be twice that, depending on community activity.
The Great Possum Conspiracy: Noisy Neighbours of the Night
It all started at 2am. A bloodcurdling scream shattered the silence. Was it a burglar? A ghost? No – it was something far worse. A possum had crash-landed onto my tin roof, sounding like a miniature horse in tap shoes. My heart stopped. My dog whimpered. My sleep? Ruined.
Heidi estimated about four hours a week, noting, “It’s the continual checking and keeping up with activity – reviewing account applications, responding to reports – that adds up.” Automation has helped, but ultimately, it’s the personal attention and care that keeps the Hub running smoothly.
A Message to the Community
When asked what message they’d like to give to Darlington Hub users, both Bree and Heidi echoed a common theme: kindness and respect.
Bree urged, “Darlington has an amazing community – and that should reflect online. If you don’t have anything kind to say, please keep scrolling.”
Heidi added, “Please be courteous and mindful of the page rules. If you think something should change, ask – we’ll put it to a community vote, just like we did when we decided to allow the sale of items on the Hub.”
The admin’s job is thankless but essential, and our community thrives because of people like Bree and Heidi, who generously volunteer their time. From moderating content and resolving conflicts to answering questions and keeping discussions respectful, they ensure the Darlington Hub remains a safe, supportive place for all.
Volunteer roles like these are the invisible threads that hold a community together. So, next time you see a well-managed discussion, a thriving local event, or a well-cared for bushland reserve, remember the many hands and hearts behind it. And if you’re feeling inspired, why not get involved? If you would like to volunteer in our community, you’re spoilt for choice so reach out to a local group or find a cause you’re passionate aboutevery little bit helps!
Possum makes herself at home in fireplace, much to children’s delight
Nighttime possum antics, feasting on the ripest of heirloom apricots
Sound familiar? We all have an entertaining possum story. A neighbour once told me about the time a possum decided to play Santa, shimmying down her chimney into her firebox after the chimney sweep failed to secure the possum-proofing wire. She woke up to find a very sooty, very unimpressed possum sitting in her fireplace like a disgruntled marshmallow someone had dropped in the coals.
The kids, naturally, were delighted assuming their father had finally caved and built them a pet possum enclosure in the living room.
Removing Mr. Possum was not as simple as opening the door and gesturing politely. He had other plans. After a mad scramble up the curtains, a few victory laps across the dining table, and an ill-advised detour into the fruit bowl, he finally made his grand exit—out the window, into the darkness, dignity barely intact.
The Not-So-Common Brushtail Possum
The Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), or koomal to Noongar people, is a nocturnal marsupial protected by law. As annoying as they can be, they’re essential to our ecosystem – helping control insect populations, dispersing seeds, pollinating flowers, and keeping our forests healthy. By day, they sleep alone in dens made from tree hollows, fallen logs, rock cavities or even your roof space. By night, possums are opportunistic feeders and seem to have a particular taste for your prize roses, ripest fruit trees and organic grown veggies.
Since complete possum eradication is neither ethical nor legal, we need to learn to live alongside these clever, persistent houseguests.
How to Handle a Possum Tenant (Without an Orangutan’s Help)
Who can forget the viral Perth Zoo video where an orangutan dramatically evicted a possum from its enclosure? While that’s one way to deal with an uninvited guest, it’s not exactly best practice. Fortunately, there are more humane (and legal) ways to
Richard Woldendrop (1927–2023) A View from Above at Mundaring Arts Centre
Celebrating 60 years of Photography at Gallery 1 until June 8th. Through the lens of his camera and breathtaking aerial photography, Woldendrop has revealed the vast and everychanging landscapes of Australia.
discourage possums from turning your home into their personal playground.
1. Set up Surveillance
If possible, set up strategically placed cameras to monitor possum activity. This can help you gauge the size of the population and pinpoint exactly where they are entering and exiting your roof space.
2. Block Entry Points
Possums are expert climbers and can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps. Regularly check your roof for loose tiles, broken eaves, or any inviting nooks and crannies. Sealing these entry points ensures your home remains your domain.
3. Provide Alternatives
If you evict a possum from your roof, it’s only fair to offer them a Plan B. A well-placed possum box in a tree can make all the difference – giving them a cozy, alternative home without the rent-free perks of your roof space.
4. Don’t Relocate Them!
It might be tempting to pack them up and send them on an impromptu holiday, but relocating possums is illegal and often leads to their demise. They’re highly territorial and struggle to survive in unfamiliar areas. Instead, focus on making your space less appealing rather than forcing them into an unwelcome relocation program.
By taking these steps, you can peacefully co-exist with our nocturnal neighbours – without resorting to orangutan-style eviction tactics!
The Final Word on Possums
So, the next time a possum throws a rooftop rave at 3 a.m., remember – it’s not personal. They’re just living their best possum lives. And with a few smart adjustments, you might even start sleeping through the night again. Maybe.
Welcome Probus
We’re delighted to welcome Mundaring Probus to the Darlington Review. Providing for the social and intellectual needs of retirees and part-retirees, the group meets every second Monday, at the Glen Forrest Sports Club on McGlew Road, at 10.00am.
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.
Into the Wild Act II Musicians
WHAT'S ON
Into the Wild Act II - Saturday May 3rd
Born from a love of music, Musicians Joe Bludge, Jonathan Brain, Walt Spice and Dan Tilly will showcase all original acoustic sets for an evening of tones, tunes and tales, within the Lesser Hall, 6.30pm - 10.30pm. BYO- food and drinks, light food available. Tickets $20. Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1378768
Darlington Ratepayers and Ratepayers Association (DRRA) - Thursday May 8th
Meeting Lesser Hall 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm
Darlington Chamber Music Winter Series - Sunday May 11th
The Darlington Quartet performing Schubert’s String Quartet in C Major with guest artist and virtuoso cellist Umberto Clerici, at Darlington Hall at 3pm. See MY PLACE for more information.
Darlington Bushfire Ready Group Meeting - Monday May 12th
Post Fire season meeting at Fire Station, with reports from the S.O.M Chief Fire officer, S.O.M Bushfire Risk Management officer, DFES Community Preparedness and Brigade officers at 7.30pm.
Darlington History Group Part 2 - Wednesday May 14th
Following on from successful Part 1, series continues to share the history of Darlington, join us 7.30pm - 9.30pm in Lesser Hall Darlington. Bookings essential: https://trybooking.com/DBCLN
Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor
As a community, we need to congratulate the very engaged locals (and there were many) who filled the public gallery of the Mundaring Shire Council and then spoke up strongly against a deeply flawed report by Shire officers that recommended support for the proposed childcare centre in Amherst Avenue. This report failed to address the very real issues raised by residents, parents and Darlington Primary School teachers about the already existing traffic chaos in this narrow cul-de-sac; the dangers of evacuating small children on a road labelled (by the Shire) a potential bushfire “entrapment” road; and the significant impact on the amenity of Amherst residents. Submissions to the Shire were of a high order and overwhelmingly rejected this proposal. Local knowledge was backed by Mundaring Councillors who also need credit for doing their own research,
for visiting the site and voting unanimously against the report. Congratulations to the Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association for facilitating informed community discussion on this at two meetings and for guiding concerned locals on how to get involved. This is an organisation that has been our “watchdog” in relation to inappropriate developments for decades and, if you care about preserving the amazing place we live in, it needs your support. While childcare may be needed, all agreed this is the wrong location for a centre of the scale proposed by this childcare business, and an alternative site has been suggested.
Member of DRRA
(name and address provided)
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.
My Place: The Darlington Essemble
As a quartet, we’ve been playing together for a long time, and whatever dramas are going on in other aspects of our lives, the quartet is always a bit of a haven. We love it and I think that comes across in our performance.
Viola player Sally Boud
When Jon Tooby first picked up a cello at primary school, it was a lucky day for Darlington because, decades later, he made sure that top professionals playing the classics would become an annual event in his hometown. Darlington Concerts has been a phenomenal success story – and the ensemble’s first concert of 2025 features a virtuoso guest artist. Trea Wiltshire talks to viola player Sally Boud about the group’s unique ‘ensemble chemistry’.
Listening to a performance of chamber music at Darlington Hall may be a world away from the grand salons that promoted composers such as Bach and Mozart in the drawing rooms of 19th century Europe, but, as a Darlington Concert guest artist once observed, the intimacy of the performance space is similar, allowing an up-close appreciation of what musicians call ‘ensemble chemistry’: musicians on different instruments –without a conductor – melding into a single entity.
It’s a skill born of communication without words, a shared understanding of the style of a composition, and, inherent in the process, says viola player Sally Boud, is “listening, negotiating and allowing space for everyone’s voice”.
“The thing about playing in Darlington Hall is the audience is so close. They can see and feel everything that you do, so there’s this very real connection – and it’s such a warm, welcoming, accepting audience. And something that just couldn’t happen in a concert hall, is being able to speak about a piece, making a bit of a story about it, before playing.
“As a quartet, we’ve been playing together for a long time, and whatever dramas are going on in other aspects of our lives, the quartet is always a bit of a haven. We love it and I think that comes across in our performance.”
That shared joy of performing together – along with the calibre of the performers that’s unusual in an out-of-town village hall –is something that has drawn appreciative audiences since the first concert in 2003. The mellow stonework of the 19th century wine cellar and the extended hall’s presence in the heart of the village has ensured that it is home to the ensemble and their guest artists.
The Darlington Chamber Music season from late autumn to spring was the initiative of Jon Tooby, who grew up in Darlington and began learning the cello at Darlington Primary School. He went on to play with major orchestras here and overseas and today he is artistic Director of the Darwin Symphony Orchestra. Jon’s dream to bring top flight musicians to his hometown harks back to childhood memories of hearing the WA String Quartet performing in the Hall. Knowing this, local musiclover Bruce Pearce took the plan to a ratepayers meeting and the community rallied, money was raised for a baby grand – and the first of the concerts and their delicious afternoon teas was held in 2003. Since then, the ensemble has performed in the Perth Concert Hall, for Musica Viva and in 2023 it became quartet-in-residence at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. It also leads the academy’s classical string programme.
Boud
The Darlington Quartet comprises violinists Semra Lee and Zak Rowntree (assistant concertmaster and principal second violin of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra respectively), former Australian String Quartet violist Sally Boud, and Jon Tooby.
It’s a pleasure to welcome them back to perform Schubert’s String Quartet in C Major with guest artist and virtuoso cellist Umberto Clerici, at the Hall on May 11 at 3pm.
L to R: Sally Boud, Zak Rowntree, Semra Lee and Jon Tooby
Viola player Sally
Councillor's
April enjoyed 3 public holidays this year and I hope people are feeling rested and (or) were able to enjoy time with family and loved ones. The holidays are reflective, and I’d like to acknowledge their profound impact to people of faith, on our society and culture and of the sacrifices of our veterans.
I’d like to give the following updates from the Shire/Council:
• Council unanimously recommended to the Development Assessment panel that the proposed childcare center be refused for the following reasons:
1. Bushfire Safety (particularly relating to the site and access routes)
2. Traffic due to peak hour congestion
3. Pedestrian safety with number of vehicle movements adjacent a school crossing
4. Amenity; impact on the area for surrounding residents
It should be noted that this is on the basis of planning reasons that Council felt relevant. Council was not the deciding authority and the matter will ultimately be heard by the Development Assessment Panel on Thursday 1st May, 1pm at the DPLH office (140 William St, Perth).
What’s on at the Hub of the Hills for over 55’s in May
• City of Swan has paused their FOGO rollout noting they are a much larger local government and there are limitations on FOGO processing capacity. There is no current plan for changes to the Mundaring bin roll-out. There is a current review from a motion I put for staff to consider more flexible bin services (e.g. opt-in for larger general waste, smaller FOGO) though this has not yet been endorsed by council.
• The new Mundaring Multi-Purpose community Facility is a fully funded $25 million facility that will receive $15 million through a federal grant. I can proudly announce that the new center will be designed by Darlington’s own Matthew Batchelor and the Cox design team.
• Residents now have another option for recycling with a new ‘Drop & Go’ station at Red Hill. This extends the existing Containers for Change program complementing the collection point at Coppin Road, giving residents even more options to recycle and earn refunds on your eligible 10¢ containers. Label them with your Containers for Change member number and drop them off with no wait.
High Tea and Book Cafe | 27 May | 10am to 11.30am | $2 High Tea
Join us in supporting the Cancer Council of WA’s Biggest Morning Tea. Purchase good quality pre-loved books, buy a raffle ticket, and enjoy a delicious high tea provided by the Shire’s Active Ageing Network. All money raised from book sales, raffle & high tea goes to the Cancer Council of WA.
Weekly Coffee Morning | every Tuesday | 9.30am
Come and enjoy catching up with friends or meeting new friends. Free tea and coffee, home made morning tea for only $2. All welcome.
Seniors Drop in | every Wednesday | 9.30am to 11am
Have a chat, read the paper, play board games or complete puzzles. Tea and coffee available. Free to attend.
The Hub of the Hills, 8 Craig Street, Mundaring 9290 6683 cso4@mundaring.wa.gov.au | Officer present on: Tuesday 8.30am to 11.30am | Wednesday 9am to 12pm | Thursday 10am to 2pm
Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association (DRRA)
“Preserving the character of Darlington and safeguarding the interests of its ratepayers and residents - Since 1909”
There is plenty of news to report!
Amhurst Avenue- Childcare Centre Application
Following much community input and work by many, the matter was put to Council at the Ordinary Meeting on the 8th April.
The following resolution was unanimously agreed to by the Council;
“Council recommends to the Metro Outer Development Assessment Panel that the development application for the proposed premises……. be refused”.
The grounds for refusal were related to Bushfire risk, Traffic congestion, risks to pedestrian safety and to the general amenity of the locality.
While there was community support for the idea of a Childcare Centre in Darlington, the particular location was not seen to be appropriate. The application will go to the Development Assessment Panel on 1 May for consideration.
Proposed Water Tank
Following community discussion with the Shire, the proposed location of the new water tank is to be sited behind the Pavilion and cricket nets. This was seen as the “least-worst” option, given the need for it to be close to the existing borehole and to enable rainwater capture from the Pavilion roof. This will unfortunately impinge on the “native triangle”.
Owen Road Development
An excellent plan was developed and proposed in 2022, but was lost somewhere in the Shire offices. 3 new plans were produced by the Shire recently, but upon review at the March community meeting, all were deemed unacceptable. Discussions will continue on improvements to this iconic area.
Succession planting for our Pines!
successful Pavilion project continues, and can coordinate/ auspice community projects. The conversation on fine tuning the agreed governance model will continue.
DRRA memberships
Our beautiful pines will not last forever. Forward thinking community members have come up with a plan to plant successor trees. Alison Atkinson is “Tree Custodian”, assisted by Stacey August (Co-Custodian) and technical experts. The options for appropriate trees will be put to the community meeting for a decision vote on 12 June. Once a decision is made, planning will commence to get this work done. Replacing like with like, looks to be the preferred model at present.
Community Governance Model
Chris Arnold and Geoff Barker presented an update on the proposed new model. In summary, DRRA is proposed to be the key body linking community groups and undertaking Shire liaison. DaSRA, which was established mainly for the
Our annual membership fee per person has been increased to $20. Reminders will go out to members soon (at time of writing). The Committee is required to set a cut-off date for a membership to be current for the 2025 year and the 2025 AGM. This was set as 30 June 2025.
DRRA Meeting
Thursday, 8 May 2025 at 7:30 PM-9 PM, Darlington HallShire Officers re Shire’s Local Planning Scheme.
Darlington Bushfire Ready Group
Street contacts and interested residents are advised of our post fire season meeting at the Fire station on MONDAY, 12TH MAY commencing at 7.30 pm. Although Darlington has had a quiet fire season we will have reports from the S.O.M Chief Fire officer; S.O.M Bushfire Risk Management officer; DFES Community preparedness as well as Brigade officers.
I sincerely hope that you can attend as we go forward into 2025 with delayed rains and continuing very dry soil index, hence there has been delays in allowing people to reduce fuel levels by issuing permits, a month later than should have been. Could do the small piles after 6.00pm, again with certain conditions prevailing.
The Shire have advised that the “Winter Burning Workshops” will hopefully occur, dependent on weather, and following are two options which can occur……
Option One
• Interested residents can email fse@mundaring.wa.gov.au to be added to our contact list… when conditions allow we will email everyone to let them know that we will be hosting
a Winter Burning Workshop on Shire land, which they are welcome to come along to get some general information (we do ask for people to RSVP to this invitation, which generally comes out with just a few days’ notice, to ensure Mick doesn’t end up there on his own!).
Option Two
• If yourself, and/or your neighbours, would like some more personalised advice – in relation to your fuel type / load and available resources – please call 9290 6696 to discuss suitable dates for hosting a demonstration on your property
These are very valuable to those whom may have some concerns on how to go about reducing their hazards in a very controlled and scorch-free way.
For all Darlington residents it is essential that during the winter months, although the fuel growing may be slowed, we should look at the trees and shrubs around our house and remove or cut back potential fire threat for next season.
Look forward to seeing you all on MONDAY, MAY 12TH.
REMINDER..…..If you see smoke and flames act immediately – don’t wait for a warning, follow your bushfire plan, and download the DEFES app to your mobile.
Visit Emergency WA for information on how to prepare for and respond to bushfires and hopefully everybody now has the free app EMERGENCY WA on their phone to receive notifications of any warnings.
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 Brigade meeting: Tuesday, 13 May, 2025 at the Darlington Fire Station.
Despite the cooler weather and recent periods of rain, our late summer and continued soil dryness means that fires can still burn easily in the bush. The Shire of Mundaring is still in a Restricted Burning period, and at the time of writing, the Shire of Mundaring are still not issuing permits to burn. Once the Shire authorises them, permits must be obtained for all running fires (day and night), all burning before 6pm, and multiple piles lit or piles larger than 1 square metre after 6pm. Please check with the Shire for current restrictions and conditions before lighting any fires, and check our Facebook page for updates. When available, permits can be applied for online, via the Shire’s website, or at the Darlington Fire Station on Saturday mornings between 9am – 10am.
to examine your property, discuss your requirements, and provide a quote based on things such as area, fuel load, topography, access, time to burn etc. (please note: the timing of HRBs are also subject to weather and environmental considerations).
On Saturday April 26th the Shire of Mundaring celebrated its volunteer emergency personnel, with the annual family BBQ, which includes the interbrigade tug-of-war challenge. Great fun, food, and fellowship was had by all, with a chance to relax together as we head to end of the fire season. We have also recently visited the Tara Montessori and Milestones Helena Valley Early Learning Centres to show the children how we work, look over our fire trucks, and squirt some water on our pretend fires.
Otherwise, small piles of garden refuse no bigger than 1 square metre may be burnt after 6pm without a permit, BUT under strict conditions including; the Fire Danger Rating is not High, Extreme or Catastrophic, only 1 pile alight at any time between 6pm and 11pm, keep a 3m clearance around any fire, have a means of extinguishing the fire within reach, a capable adult is in attendance AT THE FIRE at all times, the fire is completely extinguished by midnight (NO heat, smoke, steam, white ash). If you are lighting a fire at your residence register the fire with DFES on 9395 9209 and consider the impact of smoke on your neighbours. Please refer to the Shire’s website for additional conditions.
Due to the suspension of permits being issued the Brigade has had to delay its seasonal Hazard Reduction Burns programme. This, coupled with future rains means we may not have the opportunity to conduct many of the burns we have planned, and we apologise in advance if we cannot complete our promised burns. When undertaken, HRBs are a great opportunity for our trainee fire fighters to enhance their theoretical and classroom training with practical, hands-on experience with fire suppression in a ‘real fire’ environment. It also provides experienced firefighters with skills refreshers and leadership development. If you are a property owner and would like the Brigade to consider assisting you with a hazard reduction burn on your property, you can call the Station on 9299 7217 to register your details. An authorised officer will arrange a visit
After a long and busy summer of firefighting, the aerial water bombing fleet have now finished their seasonal operations and moved on to other locations. It will be several months before these aircraft are seen and heard flying over the Perth Hills landscape again, and in the meantime the Darlington Brigade’s Collar Tank and Fire Support operations will return to training and maintenance activities. And as we move away from the summer fire season, the Brigade turns its focus to training, and maintaining skills for new and experienced members alike. If you have ever thought about joining your local volunteer bush fire brigade, the cooler winter months are an ideal time to join, as you can undertake all the required training to be ready for next fire season. If you would like more details, or just have some questions to ask, feel free to contact the brigade at membership@darlingtonfire.org.au to find out more, or better still, come and visit us at the Darlington Fire Station on a Saturday morning between 9 – 10.30 am.
“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.” ~ Ambrose Redmoon
Walk, Walk……Walk, Walk, Walk !! …..What else is there?
Walk, Walk……Walk, Walk, Walk !! …..What else is there?
Season 2025, Bookings now OPEN.
Season 2025, Bookings now OPEN 17 bushland and parkland walks. Programme summary below. I don’t know what the question is………but going for a Sunday morning walk is the answer. So, dust off those walking boots/ shoes and get them working. This year the Walking Series starts 1st June.
17 bushland and parkland walks. Programme summary below.
I don’t know what the question is………but going for a Sunday morning walk is the answer. So, dust off those walking boots/shoes and get them working. This year the Walking Series starts 1st June. No membership or meetings required, but bookings are essential. Join us for some fun-time Sunday mornings in our beautiful and peaceful bushlands and parklands. It is also a great way to enjoy some social time with other like-minded people. Last season some 116 different people participated in the programme with an average of 29 participants on each walk. This will be our 18th Season. Come and see what all the fuss is about.
No membership or meetings required, but bookings are essential. Join us for some fun-time Sunday mornings in our beautiful and peaceful bushlands and parklands. It is also a great way to enjoy some social time with other like-minded people. Last season some 116 different people participated in the programme with an average of 29 participants on each walk. This will be our 18th Season. Come and see what all the fuss is about.
2025 Walking Programme Announced
2025 Walking Programme Announced
The 2025 Programme is summarised below. Email Cliff cliffburns@iprimus.com.au to make a booking or to enquire about the Programme. You will receive a reply with full details of the 2025 Programme. You can book the whole season or individual walks.
The 2025 Programme is summarised below. Email Cliff cliffburns@iprimus.com.au to make a booking or to enquire about the Programme. You will receive a reply with full details of the 2025 Programme. You can book the whole season or individual walks.
“Bushwalk News”
“Bushwalk News”
Ask to be placed on the “Bushwalk News” email list, and you will receive all the new information “hot off the press”.
“Back to Nature” Dryandra Woodland Adventure Weekends
Ask to be placed on the “Bushwalk News” email list, and you will receive all the new information “hot off the press”.
“Back to Nature” Dryandra Woodland Adventure Weekends
August 1,2,3 or August 8,9,10 – Based at the Dryandra Woodland Village south-east of Perth and nestled in WA’s wonderful Dryandra Bushlands. The walking trails are excellent as you wander thorough the weird and wonderful surroundings. You might see Numbats, Echidnas, Woylies and heaps of wildflowers. The Adventure Weekend includes 2 excellent bushwalks and hilarious social activities.
Full information and an opportunity to secure a spot on one of these weekends can be attained by emailing Cliff Burns at cliffburns@iprimus.com.au
August 1,2,3 or August 8,9,10 – Based at the Dryandra Woodland Village south-east of Perth and nestled in WA’s wonderful Dryandra Bushlands. The walking trails are excellent as you wander thorough the weird and wonderful surroundings. You might see Numbats, Echidnas, Woylies and heaps of wildflowers. The Adventure Weekend includes 2 excellent bushwalks and hilarious social activities.
The Challenge is on – Walking does us a power of good !!!!! It’s not the thinking that matters. It’s the doing that gets results…….Go on!. “av a go.
Full information and an opportunity to secure a spot on one of these weekends can be attained by emailing Cliff Burns at cliffburns@iprimus.com.au.
The Challenge is on – Walking does us a power of good !!!!!
It’s not the thinking that matters. It’s the doing that gets results……. Go on!. “av a go.
See you on the track. Cliff Burns (Organizer and Guide) 9299 6696
See you on the track.
Cliff Burns (Organizer and Guide) 9299 6696
Darlington Bush & Variety Walk Series
BOOKINGS NOW OPEN
(# indicates a new walk)
Residents invited - 17 Sunday morning bush and variety walks.
First in, first served. Book as many walks as you wish. Sunday mornings ($5 each) & “Back to Nature” Adventure Weekend.
Oct. Sun. 5 # Greenmount Hill Wildflowers & WIND-UP
Poster Competition – Entries open!
The much-loved Festival poster competition is back this year so get your creative juices flowing. We are looking for an engaging design that:
• embodies the spirit of the Festival
• is easy to read (as a tee shirt or a roadside sign)
• captures attention
• gets people excited about the Festival!
The winning design will feature on the 2025 Festival tee shirt and promotional material.
Entry is free and you can win $300 if your design is chosen.
To enter and read the terms and conditions of the competition head to our website www.darlingtonartsfestival.com/ participate/poster-competition/
The Committee is super excited to see what you come up with!
Sculpture on the Scarp applications open now!
Sculpture on the Scarp is your opportunity to exhibit sculptural work in a unique bushland setting. The Darlington Station Reserve comes alive with diverse artworks displayed along the trail, amongst the curated native understorey and suspended between the trees. Visit our website to find out more – www. darlingtonartsfestival.com/participate/artist/sculpture-on-thescarp
Darlington Arts Festival
Are you a keen social media guru?
Your Festival needs you!
We are looking for a socials savvy volunteer to do our posting and content curation for Festival social media throughout the year. We have a schedule mapped out including prompts and lots of cool pictures to use. Get in touch if you can help.
We also welcome volunteers to help out on Festival weekend. We are particularly looking for help with the prestigious Open Art exhibition. If this sounds like your jam – get in touch!
Register to be a volunteer through our easy web form https:// www.darlingtonartsfestival.com/participate/volunteer/
Support comes in many shapes and sizes
Darlington Arts Festival relies on grants, sponsorships, donations and fundraising events. Donations of any amount are very welcome, at any time in the year and you can even throw us a monthly or annual donation to set and forget! Help us keep this fabulous festival free and thriving by donating today https:// www.darlingtonartsfestival.com/support/donate/
Save the date: Saturday 1 and 2 November
Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers' Centre
KSP Heritage Event: Earth Lover – history, poetry, paint and sip Saturday 10 May 2025,2.30-5.00pm
Embark on a journey through history with Nathan Hobby, author of The Red Witch: Biography of Katharine Susannah Prichard, as he guides you through a fascinating heritage tour of the property. Next, get ready to unleash your creativity with our Poetry, Paint, and Sip session, led by the talented poet Elizabeth Lewis. Upon arrival, each participant will receive a poem from Katharine’s collection, which will serve as your personal theme for the day. As you explore the property’s rich history, you’ll be encouraged to craft your own poem inspired by the surroundings. Then, relax on the veranda with a drink of your choice and bring your poem to life through visual art! Whether you're a seasoned artist or a first timer, this event is all about fun, self-expression, and enjoying the creative process. Let history, poetry, and stunning views fuel your imagination! Tickets from $10.
KSP Literary Development Awards 2025:
See you at the 2025 Darlington Arts Festival! For more information on our residencies, competitions or other activities please
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers' Centre, we are hosting brand new Literary Development Awards in 2025! This generous, privately sponsored award will support WA Writers working towards their first full-length publication. All WA writers who Have not published any full-length work in the genre they are submitting to this competition, who have not been a recipient of grant funding in 2025, and who are working on a first full-length work for publication in one of the three categories: poetry; fiction novel length or collection of short fiction; non-fiction (including memoir) are eligible. Entries close Friday, May 16 2025. Visit our website to learn more: www.kspwriterscentre.com
JOIN YOUR COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
If you are a community, cultural or sporting group, a local school or faith group, and you would like information about joining the Darlington Review as a subscribing member, contact our Business Manager Betty Pitcher.
Membership allows subscribers to connect with the community (full details are on the inside front cover of the magazine).
If you would like to advertise in the magazine, contact our Advertising Manager Ron Stuurstraat.
The Darlington Review is run by volunteers and is delivered free to all local households. Its aim is to build a strong, engaged and cohesive community.
Advertising Manager | Ron Stuurstraat advertising@darlingtonreview.com.au
Business Manager | Betty Pitcher business@darlingtonreview.com.au
Mundaring | Midland Junction Arts Centre
MAC Inc. welcomes exhibition and residency proposals through an annual EOI process, curating a program which celebrates and nurtures the artistic community whilst creating enhanced opportunities to become active arts and culture participants. Expressions of interest for the 2026 MAC Inc. Exhibition and Artist Residency program opens soon.
Become a member or subscribe to the mailing list to receive up to date information or visit the website and follow on social media to stay connected.
Mundaring Arts Centre | 7190 Great Eastern Hwy (corner Nichol Street) 9295 3991 | mundaringartscentre.com.au
Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat and Sun 11am - 3pm | closed Mon and Public Holidays
MAC invites you to engage with the Australian landscape—exploring its vast, sweeping terrains alongside the intricate, often-overlooked details. Visitors are encouraged to observe, reflect, and reinterpret the natural world from both macro and micro viewpoints, enriching their connection to place and environment. Additionally, the MAC Shop offers an opportunity to explore the creative works of hundreds of local artists, further immersing visitors in the diverse artistic interpretations of WA
WHAT'S ON NOW
From the ever-changing landscapes of Australia, View from Above takes audiences through the lens of renowned Darlington artist Richard Woldendorp (1927 – 2023). Spanning across six decades, the exhibition presents a curated collection of abstract earth photographs captured from on-high across Australia. Curated with the support of Lyn Woldendorp, this photographic essay of Australia from the air commemorates 2 years since Richard Woldendorp’s passing and his legacy to the evolution of photography.
Join Lyn Woldendorp ‘In Conversation’ as she presents an artist talk on Sun 18 May, website for more details and to book.
Organic Matter | Cath Inman and Pam Gray Organic Matter explores the symbiosis of humannature connection through locally sourced materials and environmentally grounded creative practice. Pam and Cathy blend fibres and clay to reveal the raw beauty of plants and earth in harmony with nature.
Please visit our website or scan the QR code for workshop and public program details and to book. mundaringartscentre.com.au
Midland Junction Arts Centre | 276 Great Eastern Hwy (corner Cale St) 9250 8062 | midlandjunctionartscentre.com.au
Tues - Fri10am - 5pm, Sat11am - 3pm | closed Mon and Public Holidays
Visit Midland Junction Arts Centre to experience an expansive range of workshops, a Gallery Shop and two new exhibitions. WHAT'S ON NOW
A Sense of Place - Silvana Ferrario | 11 May - 13 July
A Sense of Place explores how physical environments shape our experiences and identities through the medium of glass. The collection reflects the connection between space and personal perception. Silvana draws inspiration from her childhood memories, her career as a subsea engineer and scuba diver, and the tranquil landscapes of the hills she now calls home.
Land ((Word)) Journey - Tineke Van der Eecken, Natalie Damjanovich-Napoleon, Sharyn Egan, Carol Igglesden and Lakshmi Kanchi | 11 May - 13 July
Land ((Word)) Journey uses diverse media to explore identity through the eyes of migrants, descendants of the Stolen Generations, and settler colonialists. Each artist weaves poetry into reflections on place, family history, and shared experiences with the land they call home.
Please visit our website or scan the QR code for a full list of creative workshops and public program details and to book. midlandjunctionartscentre.com.au
Above: Richard Woldendorp, Lake MacLeod with clouds reflected north of Carnarvon WA, 1982, photograph.
Right: Cath Inman and Pam Gray, Swept Up, 2024, wild clay, kniphofia leaf. Photo by Xavier Gray.
Left: Carol Igglesden, Belonging, 2023, mixed media, 30x30cm. Photo by the artist.
Left: Silvana Ferrario, In my garden 21, 2024, glass. Photo by Steve Cook.
Quick Grant Round opens 28 April
Eligible community groups can now apply for up to $500 towards the purchase of small equipment, training, promotional material and any other small projects that benefit the local community.
Search for Community Grants on the Shire website for funding guidelines or phone 9290 6678 to discuss, particularly if applying for the first time.
Applications must be submitted at mundaring.smartygrants.com.au by 4pm Monday 26 May 2025.
Darlington History Group
Darlington’s History PART 2 - ‘‘WHEN WAYLEN MEETS AMHERST’’
The Darlington History Group is excited to present Part 2 of our four-part series on the history of Darlington, presented by local historian enthusiast, and author Cliff Burns.
Join us for the second evening in the series, as we explore Waylen & Amherst, Darlington’s Vineyard, earliest settlers and their dwellings, early buildings and subdivisions.
Date: Wednesday 14th, May
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: Lesser Hall, Darlington
Refreshments: Wine and light supper provided
Entry: Gold coin donation appreciated
PLEASE NOTE: Bookings are essential, due to limited numbers that can attend. ALL attendees must pre-book https://www.trybooking.com/DBCLN. Book now to avoid disappointment!
If you having difficulty booking please call: Ursula 0408 956 692 who will be happy to assist. We look forward to seeing you there!
What a night to Remember!
A HUGE thank you to everyone who attended Part 1, of our series on the history of Darlington. It was a full house — and what a night it was! The evening delivered an informative and engaging presentation, covering the geographical development of the area, the Whadjuk Noongar people, Bilgoman Well and Convict Depot, Smith Family, establishment of the Eastern Railway, the origins of Darlington’s name to when it was officially gazetted.
Heritage Walk Trail is Underway!
DAF Fundraising - Bric-A-Brac Donations
Exciting News! Work on the Darlington Heritage Walk Trail is finally underway, after a long-awaited start.
Following many meetings, consultations with local residents and community groups, collaboration with the Shire of Mundaring, and countless hours spent developing concept designs and securing grants, construction has officially begun. Our hard work is paying off!
The Heritage Walk Trail will celebrate the rich and layered history of our community, offering locals and visitors alike the opportunity to learn more about Darlington’s early years. As part of the project, the original Darlington Vineyard gate will be reinstated, the Darlington Vineyards Siding reconstructed and the Owen Railway Crossover rebuilt.
You may have already noticed work happening near the barbecue area - this will be the site of the trail’s starting station and the new Indigenous Six Seasons garden.
To learn more and view the master plan, trail map and route please visit our website. http://www.dhg.org.au/projects.shtml
After a highly successful Darlington Arts Festival fundraiser, we’re on the lookout for more Bric-A-Brac! With the change of seasons, now is a great time to declutter, and we would love any suitable unwanted items to support our fundraising efforts for the upcoming festival.
Unfortunately due to storage and handling issues we can no longer accept books.
We are happy to collect from your door- please give Liz a call on 0427 952 491 or Christine 0490 793 015 to arrange pickup.
Membership Has Its Benefits!
Starting from the next financial year, our newsletters will be sent exclusively to financial members.
Our newsletter offers deeper insights into our history and exclusive content you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t miss out - become a member now and we will give you a 14 month membership for just $5.00.
Hope everyone enjoyed Easter and the school break. With the weather being cooler it's great to get outdoors. The club has enjoyed our Sundowners outside on these cool evenings.
We have lots of events coming up. Members are going to the Old Mill Theatre on the 2nd May to enjoy a play 'The Lady in the Van'.
The men will again be cooking for the Mum's on the 9th May for our Mother's Day event. Start practicing your recipe's now, we want to be surprised.
Come along and join in the fun on our Sundowners, fish and chip nights. Our Winter Solstice night at the club is always interesting.
The Darlington Club
We also have later in July a International food fundraiser and a dancing night. The dates for these will be advised closer to the time.
Come along and enjoy some great nights, and get to meet new people, or the company of your friends. The club is a great meeting place.
Fees to join are $25 per person or $50 for two or family. Payee The Darlington Club Inc. BSB 633 000, Account 124527748. Reference Surname and Subs.
Contact Sue Lavell on 0439 273 213 e: susanlavell10@gmail.com or Sue Bennetts on 0407 920 930 e: sue.j.bennetts24@gmail.com
Coming Events
The Club opens at 6.30pm every second Friday at Darlington Lesser Hall. BYO drinks and nibbles.
Friday 2 May 25 Old Mill Theatre to see 'The Lady in the Van'
Friday 9 May 25 Mother's Day event at the club
Friday 23 May 25 Sundowner
Friday 6 June 25 Fish and Chip night
Friday 20 June 25
July TBA
July TBA
Details will be updated in the weekly Newsletter Contact Sue on 0439 273 213 or email
Darlington Social Cricket Club
All roads lead to the test match
“The main advantage the Wozzies have when Jonesy is bowling is that he isn’t fielding” – Anon.
Darlington Social Cricket Club’s annual intra-club test match marks the end of another successful season in the Club’s 63 year history. The test match pits those members who were ‘lucky’ enough to be born in Western Australia (the Wozzies) against those born in the ‘Rest of the World’ (the RoWs). It’s a game steeped in tradition. Heros have been made. Scoundrels have emerged. Empires have risen, then fallen. It’s the one game each year that some members of the club take seriously. Some of the members who take it seriously actually play on the day, too.
Cameos followed: A. Jones (11), Farrant (9), and N. Durkin (18) all popped in like polite houseguests, keeping things tidy but interesting. Reynolds turned the screws with five hypnotic overs of miserly bowling, giving the ROWs hope.
It was a day that had it all – drama, heroics, the greatest potato bake ever made, and a foot-shaped crime scene.
The ROWs strode out confidently with Bell and Harvey ready to dominate, as usual. Alas, it was more finger painting than fine art as they stumbled to 1/7 after just 2 overs. But Harvey (22) and Lathwell (33) decided to adult-up, taking the score to a promising 3/71 off 13. Rickard (17) and Grivas (23) chipped in like supportive sidekicks, but then… the Williams family happened.
Enter the father-son wrecking crew. A stunning catch from Deakin had jaws dropping, and the Williams boys did the rest. Cliff Williams turned into a bowling sorcerer, finishing with an otherworldly 3/4 off 4 overs. That’s not a typo. ROWs stumbled to 8/125 and eventually scratched their way to 169 all out. Respectable? Sure. Safe? Not with Beazo lurking.
After an erudite and always polite halftime speech from Captain Chris Arnold that talked about small mountains still needing to be conquered, the Wozzie chase began with Beazo (66) and S.Durkin (6), the latter showing flashbulb brilliance with a six first-up before... holing out like a donut to mid off. There was much RoW rejoicing, but then there was Beazo. Relishing the Wozzie captaincy, Beazo played a steady, classy innings that spanned 36 overs in what could only be described as furnace conditions. Some say he’s still out there, gently guiding singles.
Then, just when things were looking like a Netflix cliffhanger –enter Rowdy (36*) and Vanders (12*), the duo nobody knew they needed. With 4 runs required off the final over, Vanders simply ended the debate with a roof-raising six on ball one. Game. Set. Match. Pub. Big congrats and full bragging rights to the Wozzies, and a truly masterful performance from Captain Beazo, who also snatched up the Terry Giles medal for best Wozzie, with Brad Reynolds snaffling it for the mighty RoWs.
Final Score: WAussies win in the final over. ROWs' 4-in-a-ROW streak? Toasted. Honourable Mentions and Other Madness:
• Guy Thompson: Man of the Match in the “Infrastructure” category. Finished the concrete pad for the new water fountain. Outstanding contribution to hydration.
• Shady Meredith: Immediately walked through Guy’s pristine concrete like a confused platypus. Left four glorious hoof prints. Allegedly batted with the same concrete still on his shoes. #RespectThePad
• Lyndal: Produced a potato bake so good it’s rumoured the WAussies stayed an extra hour just to eat more.
• Nosey (aka Jonesy): Sideline MVP for endless heckling, commentary, and unsolicited advice. May have cost both teams 10 runs each due to distraction.
• Chris Arnold: Drove 2000km across the Nullarbor, destroyed a diesel engine and required a council water truck to put out the fire, just to make the Test. If there was a medal for commitment (and questionable vehicle maintenance), it’s his.
Bring on next year!
Shire of Mundaring Libraries
Volunteer Opportunities at the Libraries
If you are interested in volunteering at the libraries, we would love to hear from you. Library volunteers assist with:
• Tech help sessions
• Home services delivery
• Shelving library items.
Library volunteers must be aged 16 years and over, and have a spare one or two hours available on a regular basis. If you are interested, please contact the libraries for more information:
Mundaring Library –9290 6780 or email mills@mundaring.wa.gov.au
Boya Library –9290 6755 or email gills@mundaring.wa.gov.au
Did you know about the fresh produce swap stands at the libraries?
If you have excess fresh, homegrown produce - fruit, vegetables, herbs and even seeds - you can leave them at our libraries to share with the community. The idea is to leave what you can, take what you need. Just leave any produce or seeds with library staff who will sort produce for the trolleys, and any seeds for processing by Mundaring Seed Savers for the Seed Library.
Did you know about LOTE4Kids?
It’s a great online resource of digital books in world languages allowing kids to enjoy the magic of books in LOTE (Languages Other Than English). LOTE4Kids has over 4,500 picture books in more than 70 languages, with new books and languages released each month.
How to access:
1. Visit the LOTE4Kids website at https://bit.ly/LOTE4kidsMUN and type "Shire of Mundaring" in the "Find your library or school" search field.
2. Log in using your library card number.
3. Find a book in the language you want and enjoy. You can also download the LOTE4Kids app for iOS or Android. Type "Shire of Mundaring" in the "Find your library or school" search field to bring up our LOTE4Kids member page.
Do-It-Yourself Home
Energy Audit Kits now available at the libraries
The kits enable you to make an energy audit of your home. The tools provided allow you to test for heating and cooling leaks, appliance energy use and shower head or tap water flow rates. How to borrow a kit? You can simply reserve a kit with your Shire of Mundaring library membership. The loan period is two weeks. If you are not a
library member, you can join online at https://bit.ly/MUNJoin and complete the membership when you collect the kit by providing identification. You can reserve the kit using the online catalogue at https://bit.ly/4hiWuvm. Contact Boya or Mundaring Libraries if you have any questions. This program is supported by the WA Government, Switch Your Thinking, and Energy Policy WA.
Butterfly Gardening
Boya Community Centre, Friday 2 May, 10am-11am
Learn about the plants that will attract Perth's butterfly species to your garden and how to creative a supportive environment for each stage of a butterfly's development. Bookings essential at https://events.humanitix.com/020525b.
Natasha Lester Author Talk
Boya Community Centre, Monday 5 May, 6pm-7.15pm
Join Natasha as she talks about her new book, The Mademoiselle Alliance. Bookings essential at https:// events.humanitix.com/050525b
Emotion Coaching Your Child
Boya Library, Tuesday 6 May, 10am-12pm
For parents of children aged 3-10 years. Presented by Midvale Hub Parenting Service (North East), this workshop aims to give an understanding of the types of emotions present in yourself as a parent and your child and how this understanding can be supported to develop emotional intelligence. Bookings essential at https://events.humanitix.com/060525b.
Device and Information Security
Boya Community Centre, Wednesday 7 May, 9.30am-11.30am. Learn how to protect the information on your devices including encryption, multi-factor authentication and more. Bookings essential at https://events.humanitix.com/070525b.
Cleaning with Chemistry
Boya Community Centre, Monday 12 May, 10.30am-12pm (For adults)
Learn about preparing inexpensive and effective cleaning products using materials found in your kitchen cupboards while gaining an understanding of household science. Bookings essential at https://events.humanitix.com/120525b
Your Farewell Wishes
Boya Library, Thursday 15 May, 10am-12pm
Learn about identifying and creating an end-of-life plan for the funeral, celebration of life, or memorial you want to have. Bookings essential at https://events.humanitix.com/150525b
Shire of Mundaring Library News and Events
Keep up-to-date with library news and events by subscribing to the library eNewsletter at https://bit.ly/MUNlibnews. You can also follow Shire of Mundaring Libraries on Facebook and Instagram.
Mundaring and Hills Historical Society
Mundaring Weir Hotel – 125 yrs or 127 yrs?
The story of the hotel is one of changing structures, changing names and changing ownership. Extensive search by noted historians gives us this story.
The mining boom of the 1890s saw a steady flow of miners to the goldfields. Lack of drinking water hampering many mining ventures. In 1896 C. Y. O’Connor’s Coolgardie Water Supply Scheme was approved by Premier John Forrest’s Parliament. Sales of properties in the vicinity of the project brought vignerons, orchardists and timber cutters. These established a settlement near the weir development. Over 300 men were camped at the site, ready to commence the building of the dam. By 1899 the encampment below the weir had grown to a townsite with dwellings, shops and streets.
The enterprising Jacoby family erected the Weir Hotel in 1898. This single-story building was enlarged in 1907 by adding a two-story section at the front. It was now the Reservoir Hotel. Later the name changed again to The Goldfields Hotel.
A railway from the weir to Mundaring commenced in 1898 and by 1909, special tourist trains bought visitors to the area for picnics and to see the wildflowers in spring. These trains continued until WW II.
The Goldfields Hotel and Fred Jacoby prospered from the popularity of the trains and the hospitality of his hotel. Fred leased the premises in the 1920’s but returned in the 1930’s and continued the business until his death in 1955. The property passed to his daughter, who gifted the land to the Forests Dept.
The raising of the weir wall in the 1940’s and 1950’s saw the population come and go which impacted the fortunes of the
hotel. The railway closed in the early 1950’s, reducing staff at the weir and the operations in forestry declined. In the 1960’s the hotel was known as the Weir Lodge Hotel.
In 1984 Jens Jorgensen purchased the hotel. It was run down and on the verge of closing. The property was in disrepair with car bodies littering the grounds and horses grazing at the rear of the hotel.
Jens obtained grants to restore the hotel, adding a pool and chalets. Regular outdoor concerts featuring international artists were held during the summer.
The Hotel (under various names) has been open continuously since 1898 and still draws local and overseas visitors to enjoy this iconic heritage hotel and weir precinct.
Baha'i Community of Mundaring
Are you ever weighed down by the memory of a mistake, struggling to move past it even when others have already let it go? In the Bahá’í Faith, we are reminded that while striving to live a life of service, kindness and integrity to our spiritual purpose, we are also inherently imperfect beings, learning as we go. Inevitably, we will fall short.
But these shortcomings are not meant to define us. In fact, Bahá’u’lláh, the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith, assures us of God’s endless mercy: “Turn unto Him, and fear not because of thy
deeds. He, in truth, forgiveth whomsoever He desireth as a bounty on His part... the Ever-Forgiving, the All-Bounteous.” Forgiveness, in this light, is not just something we receive — it's something we must extend to ourselves.
The journey of self-forgiveness begins with honesty and humility. When we acknowledge our actions with sincerity and strive to make amends, we open ourselves to transformation.
The Bahá’í Writings emphasize progress — spiritual, moral, and personal. We are not meant to remain trapped in guilt, but to rise, renewed, and continue the work of bettering ourselves and the world around us.
Dwelling in shame separates us from our higher selves and the divine qualities within us. Instead, let us see our mistakes as lessons, opportunities to grow and to live more consciously. If God, the All-Merciful, can forgive us — surely, we can learn to forgive ourselves.
Forgiveness is one of the topics we explore frequently at our friendly gatherings. We meet at various homes during the month, always with good food and uplifting conversations. You’re welcome to join us!
Goldfields Hotel sent by Rob from our collection.
Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides
Inspiring girls to develop leadership skills and make positive contributions to their community. The Darlington Dibblers have been working towards their wheel badges. We held a bike maintenance evening, made colour wheels, learnt about road safety and practised our riding skills.
The girls had fun designing a Darlington Dibbler Logo that they will screen print onto bags next month. We also enjoyed some easter activities (including a hunt of course) with the girls making cards using chromatography and rabbits out of marshmallows and toothpicks..
We had a drumming circle to sing some guide songs. The girls constructed tape drums…using recycled materials and packing tape.
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 Michelle on 0451 492 315 or enquire at Girl Guides WA.
Estate Law
Protect your family and plan your future.
Make a will, power of attorney or guardianship.
Look after a loved one who has lost capacity
Obtain Probate or Letters of Administration
Estate related litigation
Scouting in the Hills
The cooler months means campfires, and we’re lucky to have this spot at our Darlington location. Learning about fire starting, fire safety, campfire cooking and of course campfire songs, is part of the scouting experience.
It’s also a great time for hiking, which several sections have done, in line with their ages and stages, from John Forrest NP through to a section of the Cape to Cape Track.
ANZAC Day
Youth members from all sections attended the ANZAC Eve and Dawn services at the Blackboy Hill Memorial in Greenmount, joining others from around the district. It was an honour to take part in the overnight vigils to keep guard over the memorial, from dusk to dawn.
Qualifications
Did you know that Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT) is an RTO, which can mean nationally recognised qualifications through activities and achievements in Scouts?
Two Venturer Scouts from Darlington Scout Group recently achieved several VET qualifications, including Cert II in Workplace Skills, Cert II in Active Volunteering, Cert II and III in Outdoor Recreation and others. How great to have this formal recognition on a resumé, and can also contribute to Year 11 and 12 WACE points. And they’re FREE!
Joey Scouts
ages 5-8
Cub Scouts
ages 8-11
Scouts
ages 11-14
Venturer Scouts ages 14-18
Rover Scouts ages 18-25
Adult Volunteers ages 18+
Leaders can also earn recognition for their volunteering experience. Another benefit available through scouting.
Election Day Cake Stall
We will be holding a cake stall on Election Day Saturday 3rd May at Darlington Primary School, to help raise funds for our youth programs. Come by and help us, and pick up a treat.
Darlington Scouts are open to boys and girls, comprising four sections:
Joey Scouts (age 5-8) Monday
Cub Scouts (age 8-11) Wednesday
Scouts (age 11-14) Thursday
Venturer Scouts (age 14-18) Friday
The sections usually meet at the Kathleen Skipsey Hall on Glen Road, Darlington, in a lovely bush setting on the creek line, with a fire pit and ample opportunity for getting amongst nature.
We meet weekly during school terms, and there are often extended weekend and school holidays camps, hikes and other activities on offer. If you have a child that may be interested in coming along, you can have a trial few visits before making a commitment. We do ask parents to take turns in helping with activities, and this may be at their weekly session, or it may be helping with a camp or other weekend activity.
Contact membership@darlingtonscouts.com, or www.darlingtonscouts.com, or find our Facebook page.
Darlington Venturers also have their own Instagram page, so if you are over 14, and interested if what they do, please look them up: @darlingtonventurers
GOT SOMETHING TO SELL?
A service like babysitting, handyman jobs, walking a dog or watering plants for someone travelling? Or that much-loved guitar that’s not seeing any action? Or last year’s school ballgown?
COST? Only $10 for four lines (40 words max). Special $5 rate for students.
It’s easy: Email your classified by the 20th of the month to: business@darlingtonreview.com.au AND deposit $10 (BSB 633 000 Acc No: 158788273).
Use your name and date of email as reference.
Classifieds with $$$ can also be placed in the Review box at Darlington Post Office.
GARDENING, pruning, weeding, mulching, whipper snipping, gutters cleaned, yard tidy up etc. Phone Geoff 0409 088 936.
ADULT DANCE CLASS, MONDAYS 9.30am Darlington Hall, cost $15. All welcome, no experience needed. Contact Lynne 0409 520 023.
CARPENTRY & HOME MAINTENANCE: widely experienced and insured carpenter available for many tasks including installing doors, architraves and skirtings etc, wood floor repairs, plasterboard work, flatpack assembly and installation and much more. Phone Ken Fox: 0418 903 355.
Dependable. Transparent. Traditional Service with a Modern Twist to Pool & Spa Maintenance.
For 16 years, we've been the go-to solution for pool owners in Perth Hills and surrounding areas Our services are fast, reliable, and friendly, covering everything from green pool restorations to ment repair and supply We specialise in troubleshooting pools, installing pool blankets, and offering expert advice pool cleaners Trust us to keep your pool in top condition you can enjoy hassle-free swimming all year round.
The Pool Shop Group Locations and Service Centres: Mundaring Floreat Kalamunda Ellenbrook
We are all different
It is very interesting how we are all so very different. This is very evident when we check out the people playing bridge. Some people love the challenge and stimulation of playing difficult hands of cards and seeing if they can beat the opposition. Other folk love the fun of socializing and find the different hands interesting rather than challenging and then some people enjoy it all. Then, to top it off, in different moods and times our preferences can change.
We had a recent example of folk who enjoy the excitement and stimulation of competition. An intrepid team of eight players from our Glen Forrest Bridge Club ventured to Northam for a day to participate in a congress being held at the Avon Valley Bridge Club. Apparently, the competitive aspect of bridge is stimulating and fun to them. Reportedly a good time was had by all even though the results were kept a bit quiet on their return.
Covid and lock-down presented a challenge for many players, but not to be deterred they played online with various bridge programs all through lock down. It was reported that this helped alleviate boredom and kept many bridge players sane. Some people love bridge so much they even go on Bridge holidays in exotic places, playing Bridge twice a day for a week or two. Usually, these holidays are organized by a Bridge guru who provides some teaching as well.
Glen Forrest Bridge Club
Fortunately for us, Glen Forrest Bridge Club caters for all; those who play to enjoy the game and the social interaction and those who enjoy the stimulation and excitement of competition as well as the social interaction.
You will be made very welcome so come along and join us. Beginners or people who want to refresh on the game, a very friendly and supportive session is held on Wednesday mornings 9.30 to 11.30. People can learn to play from scratch, refresh skills, or just play socially without the pressure of competition. No need to feel shy, everyone is made very welcome. Regular sessions are held Monday and Wednesday afternoons at the Glen Forrest Sports Club, McGlew Rd.
Check out the website glenforrest.bridgeaustralia.org or call Fred 0417 913 468
Forrest Darlings CWA
In March the Forrest Darlings branch gathered for an informal meeting followed by Easter card making. Special thanks to president Vandra for preparing the activity with cards, cut outs, stamps and pretty paper.
Members also discussed drafting a motion promoting equality, diversity and inclusion to be put forward at the next CWA of WA Annual Conference. The 101st State Conference is being held at the Albany Entertainment Centre from Monday, 23 June 2025 to Wednesday, 25 June 2025.
A motion is a proposal from a meeting calling for action by the Association. Conference motions can be put forward by a branch or by a meeting of the Board.
All branches are given the opportunity to put forward general motions. General motions pertain to issues such as health, education, telecommunications, road safety and many other issues which affect the Western Australian or Australian community.
About your CWA Forrest Darlings Branch
Forrest Darlings is a friendly branch of the Country Womens Association which meets monthly at Darlington Pavilion. Guests and non members always welcome. Our focus is shared between crafts, community and catering.
Next meeting:
Wednesday 21 May 7pm, Darlington Pavilion
For more information follow Forrest Darlings CWA on Facebook or call Treasurer Jen Woods 0417 173 478.
Darlington Theatre Players at Marloo Theatre
Intimacy Direction Enhancing Safe Theatres
In the last several years, the Darlington Theatre Players at Marloo Theatre have tackled shows which deal with varying levels of physical and emotional intimacy which require vulnerability from their performers. Enter the Intimacy Director, a role that has become more and more common across both professional and community theatres.
As part of highlighting this role in community theatre and at Marloo, we sat down with both Michelle Ezzy, a leading Perth Intimacy Director and Rebecca McRae, Ezzy’s mentee Intimacy Director (both of whom have worked on Marloo’s current production of ‘Shrine’) to explore this role in more detail.
Michelle Ezzy
What is the role of an Intimacy Director?
An Intimacy Director’s job is to help create intimacy scenes in a way that’s safe and respectful for the actors while upholding the director’s vision. It’s about choreography, but it's also about making sure everyone feels comfortable and supported. It also establishes the right kind of support structures—ensuring that communication is clear and that boundaries are respected, creating a stronger and more creative production overall.
Describe your experience of working as an Intimacy Director at Marloo Theatre?
I’ve had the pleasure of working as an Intimacy Director at Marloo for a few years now. The creative teams I’ve worked with at Marloo are genuinely passionate about looking after their actors and crew, and they really see the value in how intimacy direction can enhance the overall production.
What can effective intimacy direction bring to performance?
When intimacy is done right, it can really elevate a performance and is used as a storytelling device. It goes from something that actors feel they have to just “get through” to something that’s powerful and meaningful. Effective intimacy direction focuses on clear, wellthought-out choreography that prioritises consent and trust.
Why are you so passionate about Intimacy Direction and mentoring/training up and coming Intimacy Directors?
I’m passionate about Intimacy Direction because I know first hand what it feels like to be thrown into an intimate scene and just be expected to figure it out. Even when you’re working with a kind and respectful scene partner, it can still have a huge mental and emotional impact. Now that I’ve been doing this work for a few years, I’ve seen just how much of a difference proper intimacy direction can make—not only in the quality of the performance but in how supported and empowered people feel in the process.
Rebecca McRae
What have you learned about the role of Intimacy Direction and its importance in Community Theatre?
I've learned that the role of Intimacy Direction is crucial in creating a safe, respectful, and collaborative environment for performers, especially when scenes involve physical or emotional vulnerability. In community theatre, where participants often come from diverse backgrounds and varying levels of experience, having an
intimacy director helps ensure that everyone feels supported and empowered.
How have you found applying your training across genres? Applying my intimacy direction training across such a wide variety of genres—from Mother Goose on the Loose in 2024 to Shrine and Tuck Everlasting this year—has been both a challenge and a rewarding experience. Each production brought its own unique tone, needs, and energy, and it really pushed me to be flexible and thoughtful in my approach. Each genre asked something different of me, but the core principles of consent, clarity, and collaboration stayed the same.
What would you say to anyone interested in exploring Intimacy Direction?
To anyone interested in exploring Intimacy Direction—yes, do it! It’s such an important and growing field, especially in community theatre, where creating a safe and respectful space is key for meaningful collaboration and storytelling. The more people who understand and practice Intimacy Direction, the stronger and safer our theatre communities become. You’ll not only gain valuable skills, but you’ll also be contributing to a more inclusive and respectful theatre environment for everyone.
The role of an Intimacy Coordinator is one that is constantly evolving as creatives discover more and more about consent informed practices. Marloo Theatre prides itself on being a safe theatre, paving the way for creativity in safe environments within out local community.
Pottery Classes
Mundaring Probus provides for the social and intellectual needs of retirees and part-retirees. There are over 110,000 Probus Club members in Australia.
We meet at the Glen Forrest Sports Club, McGlew Road, Glen Forrest, on the second Monday of each month at 10:00am. Our monthly meetings generally have a guest speaker.
Recent talks have included Kay McIntyre from Guide Dogs Australia accompanied by Eva the ambassador dog. John Rando, well known as a defence lawyer, spoke of his early days as a young Italian migrant. Former ABC political reporter Peter Kennedy speaking about WA premiers he has known.
Nick Elton thanking members for his Life Member nomination
After the speaker we enjoy morning tea and socialising.
We also have an informal coffee morning at the Hive Café, in Darlington, on the last Saturday of each month at 10:00am.
From time to time we have outings where we hire a bus
Mundaring Probus Club
or car pool. Recent outings have been to Wheelchairs for Kids in Wangara, a bus trip and dolphin cruise followed by one of the giants at Mandurah and a visit to Drome Dairy Camel Farm in Morangup.
We celebrate our Club’s birthday each June and Christmas at local restaurants.
Members also receive a monthly club bulletin and an electronic monthly newsletter Active Retiree.
Our annual subscription is $45.00 and there is a $5.00 entry fee for each monthly meeting.
Type Mundaring Probus into your browser to visit our website www.probussouthpacific.org/microsites/mundaring/. We are also on Facebook: www.facebook.com/mundaringprobus
Our motto is: FUN FRIENDSHIP AND FELLOWSHIP
Next meeting Monday 12th May: Hear experts from WA Arthritis and Osteoporosis bust myths about arthritis – what arthritis is; what age arthritis affects people; diet and arthritis; exercise; medications and what is proven and unproven. Arrive at 9:45 for 10:00am start.
Coffee morning Saturday 31st May: Ask for the Probus table at the counter or find the long table of happy faces wearing Probus badges.
For further details contact:
Helen White (President) 0409 293 819 or Mary-Helen Smith 0412 427 533
Darlington Tennis Club
The Darlington tennis club welcomes new players of all levels to come and join in our sessions. We have three nighttime sessions each week, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, all from 7.00 pm and a day session on Friday mornings 9.00 am to 11.00 am.
Monday is for competitive players and Tuesday and Wednesday is a more social format, Wednesday being very social. Friday mornings offers mainly singles games and doubles game opportunities depending on the numbers attending. Please contact the relevant captains for more information.
Monday evening: Paula Wood 0430 022 047
Tuesday evening: Nat Welsh 0478 842 918
Wednesday evening: Brendon Thompson 0427 250 566
Friday morning: Janis Balodis 0400 916 667
The club also has adult and junior pennants teams if you wish to play at that level and the teams are managed by Lee Oliver, lolivers@live.com.au
Cardio-tennis is run on Thursday evenings 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm by Lily Oliver. Just rock up or call Lily for more information on 0450 520 664
Lily also runs private coaching sessions if you want to brush up on your skills.
Information can also be found on the Darlington Tennis Club website: darlingtontennisclub.org.au
Newburn Accounting & Tax
We are an accountancy firm based in Darlington, Western Australia. Located not far off Gt Eastern Hwy, We provide accountancy and tax management services to a range of businesses and individuals.
While we are proudly Hills based, our clientele ranges from the Swan Valley to the wheatbelt.
Our highly effective team of business specialists and service providers work with best practices and state-of-the-art solutions.
To thrive and excel in today's business environment, you have to be able to focus on your core business.
email Bridie@newburn.ch
Contact Us. We will be glad to help you! admin@newburn.ch Ph. 0475 467 534
the
We take care of the numbers , allowing you to take care of your business.
St Cuthbert's Anglican Church | cnr
St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church cnr Darlington Rd and Hillsden Rd, Darlington
Darlington and Hillsden Roads, Darlington
Our priest, the Reverend Peregrin Campbell-Osgood, is keen to welcome and engage the full Darlington community. He is happy to be a guest presenter for community groups, formal and informal. Feel free to contact him regarding any matters of spirituality, faith, spiritual practice or services such as House Blessings and funerals.
Eat, sing, dance and find a message of hope at St
We will soon be starting a weekly group to deeply examine the bible readings set for each Sunday. This group is open to everyone, church goers or people interested in the bible. We will look critically at the text of each reading, its cultural and religious context using a variety of critical textual approaches. Please contact our priest, Peregrin, to know more. priest@hillsanglicans.com
singing, movement, morning tea and play for pre-school aged children (0-4) and their adults. Tuesday Mornings 9.30 – 11.00am
St Cuthbert’s Church, Darlington Cnr Darlington Rd &, Hillsden Rd 8 weeks per school term
No pre-booking necessary and casual attendance is fine
For more info and 2025 dates, please see our website: https://www.hillsanglicans.com/mainlymusic
next Ag A pe Me A l F R i DAy 9 MAy
A relaxed communal meal on the second Friday of the month at 6.30pm. Everyone is welcome to join us for this simple but lovely sharing of time and space together over a meal.
Our next Meal takes place on Friday 9 May at 6.30pm in the parish centre. Everyone is welcome to come, break bread together and simply be.
As part of Hope25, an Anglican Church of Australia initiative, the Reverend Bec Bydder, Director of the Centre for Spirituality at St George’s Cathedral, is presenting on Julian of Norwich. Across centuries, Julian has been a source of hope for many people, outside and within the church.
Come and hear her message of hope. Saturday 24 May, 1.30-4.30pm. Please rsvp: info@hillsanglicans.com
The Reverend Peregrin Campbell-Osgood (he/him/his) Priest-in-charge, Parish of Darlington-Bellevue (Rest Day: Monday)
Email: priest@hillsanglicans.com
Find us on Facebook at Hills Anglicans Website: www.hillsanglicans.com
Parish Office: 6292 0074
HEY MUMS, DADS & GRANS
For a morning of singing dancing, bubbles, play time and morning tea you just can’t beat Mainly Music at St Cuthbert’s.
We start in week 2 of each term. Come and check it out. You’re very welcome.
Email: info@hillsanglicans.com
Mail: PO Box 77 Darlington, WA 6070
Services: 9am Sunday 12pm Wednesday
Godly Play: Every second Sunday
Darlington Christian Fellowship | cnr
We often honour mothers during our Mother’s Day service by sharing memories or reflecting on something that we value.
I have been thinking lately about the legacy of Christian faith that mothers can pass down. The Bible gives a beautiful example in a letter Paul wrote to Timothy, saying, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also” (2 Timothy 1:5).
We are blessed to have several older mothers whose example of faith in Jesus Christ, love for God and the way they live their lives have left a lasting impact on their children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren.
My mother was one such mother. Her granddaughter remembers her faith and unwavering love for God and His Word. One of my memories is of her sitting up in bed each morning, reading her Bible and praying. She prayed for her family, various Christian
Darlington and Allestree Rds, Darlington
organisations, friends, missionaries, and the church. These practices she instilled in my brother Paul and me, we maintain them today. My mother was Thelma Rhodes, who some older residents may remember from when she worked in the Post Office. She was a long-term member of DCF, from when she moved to Darlington in the 1950s. She remained an active and faithful member until going into care in 2015.
Mum’s Christian faith was seen in very practical ways, and she had what the Bible calls a gift of service. She didn’t like the limelight, but was quietly there with a cake, a meal, a bunch of flowers or a thoughtful note when help was needed.
It is through her great years of walking with her Lord that our family can declare our faith as well.
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, I encourage all mothers to reflect on the legacy being passed to your future generations. My hope is that it will be one of love for God and faith in Jesus, just as my mother shared with us.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful mothers out there!
Darlington Primary School
Darlington Primary School courts are getting an upgrade Darlington Primary School is bouncing into action with a major goal — upgrading its aging basketball courts with multi-purpose recreational space that better serves both students and local sporting groups. With the help of a passionate Working Group made up of P&C parents and teachers, the school community is rallying together to raise the funds needed to bring this project to life.
In addition to school use, the courts are used by other sporting clubs. Currently the Darlington Basketball Club has 13 teams that use our courts during their busy summer season. And the Darlington Netball Club gets
active on the courts with 10 teams that also use the school courts outside of school hours.
The courts are well used, and the upgrade is long overdue. The bottom court hasn’t been updated since the 1960s — yes, really! Former students can vouch for it. Not only are the courts showing serious signs of wear and tear, but there are also growing trip hazards with the tree roots pushing the surface with broken, rusted fencing and old equipment that is no longer safe. These issues create limited physical education resources available to our students and hazards for the community sporting clubs.
Thanks to an election commitment from Karen Beale, our local Labor MP, the school has already secured a strong start in funding – but we still have a way to go. That’s where you come in!
How can you help?
The Darlington PS P&C will be doing numerous funding raising events this year and we’d love the community’s support to help bring our courts into the 21st century. Together we can make our upgrades a reality with every dollar raised getting us closer to a safer, more inspiring space for students and sporting community members. So stay tuned and keep an eye out, we will share on the Darlington Hub!
Denise Rhodes
Darlington Painting Service
Treetops | A Montessori and International Baccalaureate School
Cooking with Kindness in Children’s House
This term in our Treetops Children’s House, we focussed on building relationships, and developing respect and care for self, others, and the environment. Children’s House students (Pre-Kindy to Pre-Primary), have worked tirelessly all term, to ‘Spread Kindness with Deliciousness’. Students have worked together to bake hundreds of biscuits, delivering them with love, each week, to different parts of the school.
Black Cockatoo Biodiversity with Kaarakin
In the final week of Term 1, the Year 7 and 8 Science classes were inspired by a visit from the Kaarakin Black Cockatoo Conservation Centre. Kaarakin Presenter Sam, along with ‘Princess Rex’ (Carnaby’s Cockatoo), discussed the ongoing threats to WA's iconic and endangered black cockatoos, and the importance of biodiversity in their habitat. Sam showed the students examples of ‘Cockyfriendly’ plants, and pointed out how the Treetops School grounds are wonderful habitat for black cockatoos.
Following this visit, we plan to host a ‘conservation collaboration’ in 2025! Our Year 9 and 10 Design and Technologies (Materials) students are already building nesting boxes for wildlife with Re-cyc-ology owner and local bird expert, Simon Cherriman. With the help of Kaarakin and Re-cyc-ology, our Secondary students and staff plan to install these cockatoo and wildlife nesting boxes in the Treetops grounds. There is also a drive to increase the number of ‘Cockyfriendly’ plant species onsite, such as native Hakeas and Banksias, through our school planting programme this year.
PREPARING THE INDIVIDUAL TO MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE
• Crowns, veneers, bridges, implants, full and partial dentures
• Crowns, veneers, bridges, implants, full & partial dentures
• Providing dental care for the whole family in a leafy, relaxed setting
• Providing dental care for the whole family in a leafy, relaxed setting
Parkerville Steiner College
Class 12 Projects: Exploring the Depths of Human Potential
At 18 years old, a young person is not only ready to engage with the world’s biggest questions but also ask, “Who am I as a human being?” and “What can I create that expresses my deeper understanding of myself?” Steiner education encourages students to explore their passions during the Class 12 year by undertaking an independent research project. Below are three examples from this year’s PWS cohort:
Lincoln Brookes: The Mindset of Elite Athletes
“Sport has always been a huge part of my life, and I’m fascinated by how elite athletes build mental resilience. My project looks at figures like Michael Phelps and Serena Williams—how they turn setbacks into growth. To apply my research, I’m considering a ‘Backyard Ultra Marathon’—running 6.7 km every hour for as long as I can. It’s intimidating, but I’m excited to test my endurance.”
Cedar Adams: The Placebo Effect
“I’ve always been fascinated by how belief alone can trigger real physiological change. My project explores the placebo effect—how it works and how we might enhance it. I’m particularly interested in its relevance to Parkinson’s disease and depression, and whether everyday comforts, like a hug or words of reassurance, could act as placebos. Interestingly, even when people know they’re receiving a placebo, it can still work.”
Isla Southall: Rethinking Justice
“I’ve long been affected by global injustices, leading me to explore how our justice system can perpetuate cycles of poverty and trauma. My focus is on Transformative Justice, a communitybased approach that prioritises healing over punishment.”
These projects offer students insight into themselves and their chosen topics, encouraging reflection, critical thinking, and a meaningful contribution to the world.
Friends of Darlington Station Reserve (FODS)
Let The Fun Begin!
So, we are already into the swing of things on The Station Reserve, having met after Easter for the first time. We all have our own ideas about fun but on Sunday mornings when FODS are meeting on the Station Reserve we FODS are definitely enjoying ourselves.
As I write this I am hoping the season will have broken by the time the Review is out because the reserve is D-R-Y at present. This summer has been a hard one for us all as gardeners and we have all had our sad losses in the garden; harder still is witnessing the deaths in the Bush. However this is balanced on the Reserve by a successful season for the survival of new plantings from last winter. Well done and a big thank you to those who turned up early on Sunday mornings to water these.
This coming winter planting program will see the addition of new plants propagated from successful plants already growing on the Reserve. Many thanks go to Richard for caring for these little plants over the summer; these new plants are second only to self sewn new plants in terms of their chance of survival. We will also continue to introduce plants from our wishlist. Diversity is so important as I noted when I walked towards Point Possession from Whalers Cove near Albany last month. A hot fire affected this bush but now it is starting to flourish again- wonderful.
We continue to see an improvement in the weed load on the Reserve but weed management will still be a significant part of our effort over the coming months.
Again, please contact us if you can join our group and give 2 hours on alternate Sunday mornings over winter to help maintain this valuable local bush. We are so lucky to have this area but it takes work to maintain; as they say ‘Many hands make light work’.
Work sessions for May are 11th and 25th. Come and have a chat too if you see us working on the reserve.
Contact: Jane on 0477 987 048 for more information
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The Darlington Review is delivered free to all local households and our low advertising rates make it easily affordable. If you are interested and want further information get in touch with our Advertising Manager Ron Stuurstraat: 0451 662 917 advertising@darlingtonreview.com.au
Banksia Prionotes seen recently in the Lions Park in Williams, but we still try banksias on the reserve and one day we will succeed!
Regrowth on WA Christmas Trees near Whalers Cove, Albany. The diversity of plant species along this path can be appreciated in all its natural wonder as it recovers from a hot fire 2 years ago.
Greetings from the Darlington Community Garden in this season of Djeran, in which we have awoken from the hot haze of Summer, ready for a big surge of activity.
With Alison coordinating, the Woorooloo Green team prepped the ground for the ornamental grapevines that will one day grace the arbour with their showy autumn display. The team also installed our rustic campfire surround, kindly sourced and delivered by Norm Brinfield (no easy feat given its tonnage!).
We are so very grateful to local Scout Jasper, who project managed his family and Scout crew through a massive clean-up. With the goal of improving access to the DCG and clearing the way for planting in the upper wetlands, it was all heavy lifting and hard graft to meet Erin’s demands. All made possible with the support of Jasper’s Dad Randall, Mum Marijke and Dan. Also, kudos to kids who moved huge granite boulders as if they were bags of groceries!
We are so happy to have Charles back in the fold (following a decent ankle fracture) to coordinate the reconditioning of our vegie beds. We have missed you! Keep your eye out for vegie planting days coming up.
Charles could be heard performing on the Didgeridoo and pan pipes at our recent Nature Play Day. Coordinated by Kate, we hosted 45 kids crafting, planting and playing in the mud. A day of pure joy!
Our resident elder Sally Hertzfeld has been coordinating the Adopt a Garden Bed program to bring a new generation of volunteers into the garden. We have Helena Valley PS, Montessori Treetops, HOSCA and Girl Guides lined up to plant out the Goanna (garden) feet with bushtucker plants. If you are part of a community group and interested in adopting a garden bed, get in touch!
Sue and Norm have continued the beautification of the compost/worm zone with the planting of flower vines to cover the trellis and shelter the little critters from the worst of the weather. Meanwhile Graham and Mike continue to install trellis to keep up with the passionfruit vines!
Do call in soon and checkout the transformations. You’ll be amazed!
www.darlingtoncommunitygarden.org.au/join-us-1 Keep in touch and have your say on our DCG FACEBOOK page www.facebook.com/groups/ 218148335647263
