Darlington Review • Vol.63 No.1 • February 2023

Anglican Church (Church Office 6292 0074)

Baha’i Faith

Bushfire Ready Group

Darlington Arts Festival Inc. (DAF)

Jan Carroll 9299 7240

Susheel Croft 0402 023 704

Colin James 0419 969 223

Chris Pemberton 9252 0154

Darlington Bushwalk Series Cliff Burns 9299 6696

Darlington Chamber Music Malcolm Firth 0400 204 845

Darlington Christian Fellowship

Darlington Community Garden (DCG)

Murray Guy 0417 174 441

Louise Stelfox 0437 310 578

Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group (DCRAG) Colin James 0419 969 223

Darlington Dipsticks Bindi Datson 9252 1050

Darlington Family Playgroup Stacey Phipps 0417 955 835

Darlington Junior Cricket Club

Chris Pivac - chris@slatergartrellsports.com.au 0404 082 623

Darlington Junior Football Club Brodie Della - darlingonjfcpresident@gmail.com

Darlington History Group

Val Shiell 9299 6868

Darlington Primary School 9299 6888

Darlington Primary School P & C Association

Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association (DRRA)

Darlington Retirement Accommodation Assn Inc. (DRAA)

Lucy Banner (President) President@dpspc.org.au

Anthony Spagnola - drra@darlingtonvillage.org 0406 805 111

Carolyn Earnshaw 0427 271 765

Darlington Running Group Pippa Windsor 0488 069 764 Darlington Social Cricket Club Inc. Stephen Jones 0437 242 299

Darlington Sports and Recreation Association Inc. (DaSRA) Geoff Barker - geoff@pmdwa.com 0418 953 176

Darlington Tennis Club Alex Hoschke 9299 6456

Darlington Theatre Players at Marloo Theatre – 9255 1212 Rachel Vonk 0419 929 692

Darlington Volunteer Bushfire Brigade Inc.

1st Darlington Scouts

Ricky Harvey 0409 685 445

Julia Tolj – 0448 298 695 (Glen Stenton – 0403 809 226)

Forrest Darlings CWA Kate Herren 0452 644 248

Friends of Darlington Station Reserve (FODS)

Jane Arnold – arnoldmj55@gmail.com 0477 987 048

Friends of Glen Park Glenys Letchford 0467 586 050

Friends of Waylen’s Landing (FOWL) Shannon Ward 9252 1879

Garrick Theatre publicity@garricktheatre.asn.au

Glen Forrest Bridge Club (GFBC)

Bev Hayles 0437 817 359

Guides Western Australia (Forrest Hills District) ‘Dibblers’ Karen Wills 0418 917 045

Guildford Grammar School Gillian MacDonald 9377 9222

Hovea Ashram Manita Beskow 0419 043 768

Helena College

Carrie Parsons – cparsons@helena.wa.edu.au 9298 9100

The Hub of the Hills Rachel Bacon 9290 6683

KSP Writers’ Centre Shannon Coyle 9294 1872

Kalamunda Bridge Club

Mundaring Arts Centre Inc.

Jenny Tedeschi jennifer_tedeschi1@hotmail.com

Jenny Haynes 9295 3991

Mundaring Arts Scholarships Chris Durrant 9299 6093

Mundaring Chamber of Commerce

Mundaring Christian College

Mundaring Creative Learning

Mundaring and Hills Historical Society Inc.

Parkerville Steiner School

Shire of Mundaring Library Service

Morgan Holmes – President, Mundaring Chamber of Commerce TBA

Amanda McCleary 9295 2688

Terrie Plaistowe 9295 1688

Trish Beaman 9295 0540

Michelle Garvin - michelle.garvin@silvertree.wa.edu.au 9295 4787

Kerryn Martin, Branch Librarian, Greenmount Public Library 9290 6758

Silver Tree Steiner School Hayley Spracklen/Michelle Garvin - michelle.garvin@silvertree.wa.edu.au 9295 4787 Soroptimist International of Helena Fay Kappler 9274 4543 Swan Rotary Manny Braude 0408 274 556

The Darlington Club Sue Lavell 0439 273 213 Treetops Montessori School Stuart Harris 9299 6725

Members of Parliament:

Member for East Metro Donna Faragher JP MLC 9379 0840

Member for Kalamunda Matthew Hughes 9293 4747

Federal Member for Hasluck Tania Lawrence 6245 3340

Mundaring Shire South Ward Councillors:

Cr James Martin

CrMartin@mundaring.wa.gov.au 0437 287 377 Cr Trish Cook CrCook@mundaring.wa.gov.au 0409 479 551 Cr Luke Ellery CrEllery@mundaring.wa.gov.au 0420 421 883

Justice of the Peace: Warren Southwell 9252 0361

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

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EDITORIAL

Happy New Year to all readers. We hope that, despite the onslaught of Covid during the weeks around Christmas, all who celebrate this festivity have had an enjoyable time. Christmas carols in Darlington seems a long way back now, but see Trea’s write-up of the event that took those who participated back to the simplicity of a singalong version. The Darlington Social Cricket Club notes remind us also to reflect back on the annual festive DSCC versus Darlington Pony Club (arising from their original close proximity when Pony Club was held where the skatepark now is) and also of that childthrilling run through the village by Santa on the fire engine!

It has been said often before that “It takes a village to raise a child” and I think that we can fortunately say that Darlington does a pretty good job of it! Bob and I consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have found Darlington when we emigrated from Scotland and we have been privileged to raise our two girls here and also to teach locally, Bob at Helena College and me at Treetops for the past two decades.

My younger daughter Kirsten will be known to many of you at the Hive, when she is not working the season as a ski in ski out café manager at Falls Creek in Victoria. Katie, my eldest daughter, also currently teaching at Treetops but about to head on the adventure of two years gaining a Masters in Montessori education in Girona in Spain, is joint editing this Review.

Belle

Belle will be known to many of you as one of the senior stylists at Mosh where she has been working for the past almost five years. Belle, who had only ever been to Bali until now, and had never even seen snow, is currently in Sunshine Village in Banff. Her coldest weather day so far has been a mind-chilling minus 36 degrees! Sunshine Village has a current base snow depth of well over one metre.

Adaptability is clearly important here! Belle is working in retail and has enjoyed the “absolute” beauty of the Rocky Mountains including snow-boarding (a definite first for her but she has learnt quickly), visiting hot springs, touring and being part of an amazing team of new friends. She says it is a “magical experience”.

Her inspiration? Gaining her apprenticeship at Mosh gave her the confidence (but also made it hard to leave, hopefully temporarily, a job that she loves). In her words, “I feel as a young person it is important to step out of your comfort zone and experience what the world has to offer”.

Having sat and listened to Sue with her young employees in Mosh there is no doubt in my mind that one of the role models who has supported Belle and helped to give her confidence and determination is Sue.

When Covid was affecting her staff just before Christmas Sue herself was left working three ‘columns’ of clients – her take on it: “Well you can’t ring people and tell them that they can’t have their hair done for Christmas, can you?”.

Young people are always an inspiration to me - I am daily in awe, at school and in life in general, of what each generation achieves and becomes involved in. And my observation over four decades of working with young people is that you do not need to be exceptional to be able to do positive or exciting things – you just need something, sometimes only one thing, to create that motivation. So, I decided to interview three young people connected with Darlington to help me to explore this idea and ask, what are those things, and how does the influence of Darlington help?

Adventurousness, creativity, putting your hand up to be involved, all have been shown to lead to many benefits: the future ability to adapt to change and unfamiliar circumstance, the further development of creativity and curiosity, greater self-belief, being able to push out of comfort zones, getting into the ‘flow’ i.e. the release of all the feel-good dopamine.

So where does Darlington come into that? Read on and see what this tiny selection of our young people have to say. There were so very many young people I could have interviewed about things they were doing, and some of the awards detailed later tell you about some others. This is a small sample, a tip of an iceberg that could be explored further in future editions.

Belle in Banff.

Darlington resident Max, while still at school, has created something that may make a difference to the future of our planet and the future of Darlington! For his Year 12 Project at Perth Waldorf School Max designed, and eventually created, an Aerobic Digester using household scraps to provide both compost and also methane gas capture for energy use. Max first worked on the design, (receiving very useful support from his Dad, who had conducted a Masters project in anaerobic design which informed a Thames Water (London) construction used for sewerage digestion in the 1990s).

Max was able to visit Richgro and Fairbrossen winery in the area that are both using industrial Aerobic Digesters to manage waste. Darlington Community Garden’s Louise Stelfox and Sue Lennard were mentors, Louise as a hydrologist and Sue Lennard providing composting technique information. Another helpful mentor was a teacher who warned him that if he did not get his act together he would not pass!! This led to the production of the unit but also clearly demonstrated that perseverance, not just talent and opportunity, is an important part of achievement!

Max also had to overcome the obstacle of the digester not operating properly during Winter because of not being in a sufficiently sunny spot to reach the necessary 35 degrees and he has learnt a bit along the way about the hazard of unintentionally setting up a siphoning effect! Max gave a talk at the Community Garden and provided them with compost, gave a TED talk at school and wrote a 4,000 word report. Excitingly, there is talk of creating another digester (the first is at Max’s home), for the Community Garden which may be able to process food wastage from some of our Darlington food and hospitality businesses. Watch this space! I asked Max about any other influences apart from those great Darlington mentors. Max stated that he has grown up in his household in Darlington with environmental consciousness at the heart. He has been taught to upcycle – important in the use of almost entirely second-hand materials to make his digester. And, and this is something that we can appreciate with gratitude in Darlington, he attributes playing in the bush and around the village in what he considers

Rosie

to be a ‘cared-for’ and clean environment to have meant that rubbish and littering has never been normalised for him.

His inspiration for having the courage to construct an actual digester (as opposed to just researching and writing about it) came from researching villages in Africa that had no gridprovided resources and where the entire community worked together. This inspired him and further activated his desire to make a difference.

Photos and illustration showing Max’s Digester in his garden and how it operates.

In 2018 Rosie moved country in order to attend Hartpury University in England to pursue Equine studies under Olympic coaches and make use of the amazing facilities there. You may remember that a previous Darlington Review ran a feature on her doing this. So what is she doing now?

After an amazing four years of riding and studying, Rosie was able to present at conference in the area of mental skills in Elite level riders and, having ridden professionally for a while, she has now decided that her current interest lies in sport psychology. She is studying for a postgraduate diploma in performance psychology at the University of Edinburgh. I asked her what it was about her Darlington upbringing that might have been influential in giving her the courage to embark on these years of exciting study?

Apart from the opportunity to ride horses in the Hills at some great local riding centres and a supportive family that enabled this, (despite music, not horseriding, being their main background – see paragraph on Jon Tooby and Darlington Concerts), Rosie says, “Darlington is a really cool place. There are so many people doing so many different things…and everyone supports everyone no matter what they are trying to do…you were never forced down any particular pathway and that allowed me to do something slightly unconventional and go and study horses!”

Rosie on Bluff Knoll with the world at her feet and on Pixie at Hartpury University.

A rescue mission for Carols!

Many locals were delighted when Carols by Candlelight returned to a beautifully decorated Darlington Hall on Christmas Eve – a setting far more atmospheric than the pavilion – and you'd never have known that the event was hastily put together. Previously organised by Pauline Clark, who had let the community know she was unable to continue doing so,as Christmas Eve approached, locals wondered who could step into this role.

One name kept coming up – the Whissons: busy Darlington musician Glen Whisson and his wife Tania, a whizz at organising events such as the Festival's Soir Noir. As Tania would later observe: “Communities are strengthened by traditions, and Carols has been a Darlington tradition for decades, so, yes, we were more than happy to step in and keep the tradition alive.” Glen quoted this at the event because, sadly, Covid kept Tania from attending.

As always at such times, our community rallied as did the entire Whisson clan –local choir singers banded together to lead the singing, Earnshaws Real Estate paid for carol books and the Darlington Review picked up other expenses like insurance.

And the weather gods produced

a beautiful evening that attracted lots of enthusiastic carol singers of all ages. This “no frills” Carols by Candlelight was very warmly welcomed and the hope is that the Whissons can be persuaded to make it happen for Christmas 2023. Thanks to Cathryn Cann for the photos she provided to the Review.

Children amassing on a star lit hall balcony beside members of the Whisson family including Glen’s Mum!

Trea Wiltsire

Landmark rally in WA’s longest battle

A large rally is being planned in Mundaring on Sunday February 5 following the anticipated release – in early February – of an amended Satterley proposal to create a townsite for more than 4,000 in an Extreme Bushfire Zone in North Stoneville.

If, like many Hills residents, you’ve followed WA’s longest running local community battle – that pitches North Stoneville residents against Australia’s biggest land developer – you’ll want to be at a Save Perth Hills Rally advertised in this issue.  “If approved this plan will open up urbanisation of our Hills. North Parkerville is next – and on it will go…” warns a poster for the rally at which speakers include Greens founder Bob Brown.

The Satterley proposal to urbanise 555-hectares of bush/forest/ rural land (owned by the Anglican Perth Diocese) has previously been comprehensively rejected by the community, Mundaring Shire, the WA Planning Commission, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, but the developer has appealed to the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT).

Save Perth Hills Chair, Peter Brazier, said the community will be urged to ‘Say No - Again’ because there can be no compromise on any urban plan that knowingly puts thousands in harm’s way. “We remain opposed to urbanisation of the ‘North Stoneville’ land given increasing bushfire risks, and the permanent and proven Extreme Bushfire Zone surrounding the site, which includes ember-attack reach of John Forrest National Park,” he said. “Additionally, on Satterley’s estimates, huge volumes of extra traffic would be generated … including 11,000 extra traffic

movements on Stoneville Road every day, and increased traffic down Brooking Road, both of which feed onto Great Eastern Highway.

“We call on our Community to please join SPH on February 5 for an hour, and then to ‘Say No – Again’ when public submissions open in February. We are hoping for at least 1000 submissions against the revised plan from the community - that is one of the prime purposes of the Rally.”

Save Perth Hills will be at the first meeting this year of the Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association at Darlington Hall on Thursday February 9 at 7.30pm.

SPH says the North Stoneville site is rated ‘high to excellent conservation’ value and that Satterley wants to bulldoze more than 200-hectares, including the clear-felling up to 60,000 trees, home to Vulnerable, Endangered and Critically Endangered Black Cockatoos, and other Endangered Hills’ wildlife. One of the speakers will be endangered bird expert Simon Cherriman.

Stoneville-Parkerville Progress Association President Jo Sheil says Satterley’s timing of the amended plan is insulting to the local community. “Satterley’s intention to re-launch this plan on January 31, at the height of our bushfire season, and on the eve of the second anniversary of the Wooroloo Bushfires, illustrates a complete lack of understanding of our community’s bushfire risks and realities.”

The Rally at Mundaring Sculpture Park is at 10am. There is more info on the SPH website: www.saveperthhills.net

The media gather in 2020 following the WA Planning Commission’s rejection of Satterley’s proposal to create a townsite in North Stoneville. Being interviewed is Paige McNeil (formerly of Save Perth Hills) and MLA Matthew Hughes.

Bridge Club

Welcome to our new Review member, Glen Forrest Bridge Club. People in Darlington and surrounds who are keen to play, or learn to play, may now attend Glen Forrest or Kalamunda Bridge clubs.

A study at the University of Stirling in Scotland concluded that playing bridge keeps people smarter, happier and more social and that people who played bridge had higher levels of wellbeing than those that didn’t. So please read their notes to find the times and days that you might attend!

Another new Review member

Welcome to Tania Lawrence our Federal MP for Hasluck, an already familiar face who resides in the Hills and attends Darlington local events such as Darlington Arts Festival.

Darlington Concerts

Congratulations to Jon Tooby and his fellow Darlington Quartet musicians Semra Lee, Zak Rowntree and Sally Boud, in being appointed to the WA Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) staff to lead the Classical String program as WAAPA’s Quartet in Residence! Very exciting!

The Darlington Concert season is in its 20th year and there are some celebration activities planned. More information will be given in future Review editions, but just to give advance notice of concert dates they are:

• 30 April

• 4 June

• 16 July

• 27 August

• 24 September

Bilgoman Aquatic Centre scores top marks

The recent RLSSWA safety assessment of Bilgoman Pool gave them a stunning and reassuring 100% for safety.

Shire President James Martin stated:

“To receive such a fantastic result on the initial assessment shows that their daily operations, management and maintenance of the facility are 100 per cent spot on and meets all aspects of the Code for aquatic facilities,” he said.

“Congratulations to the staff involved in maintaining these standards over the past four years and we hope to pass with the same result again in the future.”

For anyone who has not yet visited this Summer haunt of Darlington residents, young and old, the Bilgoman Aquatic Centre provides a 50 metre heated Olympic sized swimming pool and a shaded toddler pool. The Shire’s website has details of opening months and times.

Colour me Kate Frock Shop

If you are wanting to start 2023 in style then look no further than Darlington’s very own pre-loved clothing boutique which has just reopened!

The Frock Shop is located at 2 Montrose Avenue (above the Little Nook Cafe) and is open Thursday- Sunday from 9am to 2pm (1pm on Sunday).

The owner, Kate, (who also features in the Mundaring History Group notes “What the frock” in this edition) is a Personal Colour and Image Stylist who strives to help women dress in a way that makes them feel confident every day. Go to www.colourmekate. com.au/frockshop for more details.

Backyard Biodiversity- Environmental Art Project 2022 Winners

Over 1,900 Perth primary school students submitted a piece of artwork into the 21st annual Environmental Art Project, run by the Mundaring Arts Centre. The theme this year was ‘Backyard Biodiversity’. Students were challenged to explore local diversity by looking closely at nature to discover, observe and monitor the flora and fauna of their local area.

All entries have been presented in an online exhibition and can be viewed at: https://www.enviroartproject.com.au/exhibition-22. Additionally, a selection of entries has been transformed into a walking trail at Midland’s Weeip Park, and banners in the Mundaring Rose Gardens.

Darlington was well represented with five students’ submissions being selected and acknowledged. Congratulations to the following individuals:

New DRRA team up and running ...

The new and enlarged committee of the Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association(DRRA) is clearly energised by the promise and challenges of 2023 and has already had its first meeting about current issues and the year ahead. New Chairperson Anthony Spagnolo and Deputy Chairperson Louise Stelfox make a good team in the leadership roles and have a committee that encompasses locals with an impressive range of experience in a variety of fields.

“Former President Steve Beadle has done an outstanding job, and I'm excited to take over as Chairperson,” says Anthony. "It is our mission to ensure Darlington residents can participate actively in the maintenance and improvement of our village lifestyle.  We also represent the interests of residents and ratepayers to the Shire and hope to make progress on a range of key issues in 2023.”

You can read more in DRRA notes in this issue.  The first DRRA public meeting is on Thursday February 9 at 7.30pm and

the longrunning saga of the Satterley

will feature a presentation by Save Perth Hills

a townsite for 4,000 in North Stoneville.

Alice Dowler (Year 1 at Darlington Primary School).

Olive Callaway (Year 2 at Treetops Montessori School).

Blake Hendry (Year 3 at Treetops Montessori School).

Sophie Russel (Year 4 at Helena College).

Sophie Zylstra (Year 6 at Darlington Primary School).

on

proposal for

DRRA Chairperson: Anthony Spagnolo, Deputy Chairperson: Louise Stelfox, Treasurer: Pippa Windsor and Secretary: Julia Richardson.

Please see the DRRA and DCRAG notes in this edition for further information on the contested proposals to widen the oval and (separately) to create a footpath to run alongside the oval by the pine trees.

In summary, decisions regarding the oval widening proposal and consideration of the opposition to it have been delayed by the Shire until 2024 when the Shire review its Recreational Facilities Informing Strategy. Similarly, the drainage and tree root work requested will be explored in 2026/7 when there is a planned upgrade of the reticulation system.

With regard to the footpath, which has already been agreed to and published by DCRAG, this has now reached the stage of being awarded to a contractor with work beginning in the near future.

The replacement of the old damaged perimeter bollards has been under planning and discussion for some time. Shane

Purdy, Director of Infrastructure at the Shire has reassured that consideration of the tree root systems will be given in the placement of the bollards when they are moved closer to the road and that there will still be larger than Australian Standard (6.7m as opposed to Standard 5.4m) parking bay length for cars between the bollards and the road. I do have to wonder a little about the width of the actual road that tends to cause, when vehicles meet from opposing directions, one of the vehicles to drop two wheels onto the gravel area into what will in future be the parking bays.

While it might therefore seem sensible to reverse park, once the work has been done, to ensure that Rover is well away from the road before disembarking from the back, it may on the other hand be necessary to park larger vehicles right up to the bollards to give some space at the road edge. Only time will tell whether indeed, as the Shire hopes, it will become a safer area.

2022 Celebrating Community Recipients

Community members and groups were celebrated for their outstanding contribution to the local area at the Shire of Mundaring’s Celebrating Community event. The Shire’s event is held each year to coincide with International Volunteer Day on December 5, and is supported by Department of Communities through the Thank a Volunteer Day grant program.

The Inspirational Volunteer award recognises individuals or groups who made an outstanding contribution to the local community. There were three recipients from Darlington; Lee Oliver from the Darlington Tennis Club, Melanie Ingram- a

local volunteer who delivers social events for older people, and the group behind LAMP (Lower Recreation Area Master Plan). Darlington also had a Rising Star recipient; Elaina Davies who received this award for her work with The Baha'i Community of Mundaring.

The recipients were congratulated by Shire President, James Martin; “I want to sincerely thank each and every one of our volunteers and groups who have made a significant difference over the year. Without your time and dedication, it would be difficult to provide the wide range of initiatives that are delivered by volunteers across our community.”

Darlington Community Garden

Most residents will now be aware of some of the exciting things that are going on under the arbour, so to speak! I took the opportunity to wander down to the now regular Saturday morning mosaic tile making session and took a few photos.

Tiles have been made by schools and residents and now by children and adults together in the holidays. They will eventually adorn the path running through the arbour. Another worthwhile activity that I attended was the once a month produce swap. Locals brought all sorts of produce from zucchini, to preserves, to seedlings and curry leaves – whatever anyone has enough of to share. This was both a social opportunity and a wonderful way of giving and receiving without the need for money to be exchanged. See the photo of the notice of times for future swaps.

And finally …

Katie and I want to thank those who have mentored us enabling us to have a go at this editing role! I would also, while I hold the ‘virtual’ pen, like to round up my theme on young people and some of the exciting things that they are doing, by suggesting that in our main committees (e.g. DRRA and DCRAG) there might be a permanent position for a young person on the committee e.g have chair, treasurer, etc and also a ‘youth representative’.

This could in theory be offered at a future AGM, but if not taken up, perhaps young people themselves, or local schools, could be approached to ensure that it is filled. Such a position would give us access to the next generation of talent and would also help to ensure the ongoing nature of the groups that we rely upon to represent our views and to distribute information to us.

Jayne and Katie Simpson | February Editors

Community Notice

Notice of Annual General Meeting

NOTICE is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Darlington Review Inc. is to be held at 6A Brook Road, Darlington at 7:00pm on Tuesday 14 March 2023. AGENDA

Nominations are invited for three committee positions – editor, business manager and advertising manager. Nominations must be in writing. The nominator must be a member of Darlington Review Inc. The nominee must give written consent to their nomination.

Betty Pitcher | Business Manager

Trea Wiltshire talks to seasoned firefighter Ricky Harvey of the Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade

Particularly at this time of the year, the Review considers the Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade’s notes as this magazine’s most important read. They are written by Ricky Harvey who has spent more than a dozen years fighting fires – and worrying about some of the ‘unprepared’ houses he encounters driving through Darlington. Are they defendable? Sometimes, his blunt answer is, no.

Ricky Harvey fights fires, but he also juggles this volunteering with family life and two professional jobs: as a freelance television cameraman (he covered the Tokyo Olympics) and as a fire & emergency management trainer with FIREtrain, a locally owned and operated organisation.

When you freelance (always unpredictable) the impulse to say ‘yes’ to every job that comes your way can result in working 14 days straight with just one day off – which is what Ricky had just done when we chatted in November. However, when you get the brigade’s publicity officer talking about firefighting, you quickly appreciate his commitment to the brigade and his fascination with the managerial processes that come into play when fighting major fires – which, he says, can be similar to a military operation.

What is he feeling as ‘the fire season’ approaches, given that memories of the Wooroloo fire are still lingering?

“Well, you’ve done your upskilling and fitness training over winter, so now it’s all about getting into the mindset of being on the roster, on call, managing your time, making sure you’re hydrated should you suddenly find yourself heading out to a fire,” says Ricky, who has been both Captain and Fire Control Officer at the DVBFB, and has trained as a Sector Commander.

Because of his seniority, when the brigade tanker he headed arrived at the Wooroloo fire’s incident control point, Ricky was instantly recognised by a senior Shire officer and told that he’d be a Sector Commander.

“That changes your mindset a bit because as a Sector Commander you’re assigned a part of the fire and all the trucks in that section. It’s a bit like being manager of a larger geographic area,” Ricky explains. “As a fire escalates, the incident control team will scale up or down the number of trucks, equipment, personnel and sectors engaged in fighting it, so

“There are people trained in property triage (just like doctors in emergency) and they will drive up and down streets making decisions about which properties are defendable and this information is given to firefighters. That can lead to some sad conversations ...”

no one section gets overwhelmed. It’s close to a paramilitary operation with each level of the hierarchy given specific rules, tasks and responsibilities. Everyone has a clear understanding of their roles, so it doesn’t matter what you think, you respect the chain of command.”

He won’t forget being in the brigade’s light tanker in a blazing paddock when winds were so strong the fire was travelling as fast as they could drive. “Then we popped a front tyre which stuck us in a situation when the fire was burning all around us, but fortunately, it was stubble and the fire was travelling really quickly so it passed underneath and around us fairly quickly, but yes, it was a bit scary because its sheer scale and the fact that it was changing so fast,” he recalls.

“Every fire is a learning experience because each situation and location are different and that’s where your experience of previous fires becomes important. When you’re called out to a fire and you grab your keys, the adrenalin starts running. You get updates as you head to the fire site, so while you try to remain cool and calm, there’s a mix of fear, anxiety and trepidation because you are heading into an environment that is dynamic and dangerous. And, of course, you’re aware your family will be worrying, because they’re watching coverage on TV or listening to the radio, so whenever you have the chance, you call to reassure them that you’re OK.

“One of the frustrations of being a firefighter is that, inevitably, as you drive around Darlington, or across Mundaring, you find yourself looking at properties in terms of their preparedness. People move to the Hills because it’s so beautiful to live among trees and bushland, but on those drives you just know that if there was ‘the big one’ here – and we’ve dodged it so far in Darlington – there are certain homes and certain idyllic locations where, if people haven’t prepared, no amount of fire trucks would be able to save these properties.

“That sits uncomfortably with me but I guess it's a by-product of being a firefighter. Despite all the emphasis – from DFES, Local Government and the brigade – about shared responsibility, some residents still think that if a big fire came, there will be a fire truck in their drive. That’s not realistic. There is only so much government can provide and owners must do their bit.

“There are people trained in property triage (just like doctors in emergency) and they will drive up and down streets making decisions about which properties are defendable and this information is given to firefighters.

That can lead to some sad conversations. For instance, whether a driveway is wide enough for a fire truck to get in and out safely will have been assessed, because as much as we’ve signed up to put ourselves on the front line to protect lives and property, ultimately decisions will be based on a property’s defendability and the dangers of sending in firefighters. And, at the end of the day, we all want to return home to our families.

“Some residents tend to dance around the topics of defendability, property maintenance and protection zones, but as firefighters and emergency service people we have to talk about these issues, to plan around them.”

That’s a message we need to hear as we take a long hard look at our properties, and think about the volunteers who could be called upon to defend them. Currently, unlike other brigades that are constantly seeking more volunteers, Darlington’s brigade has a healthy membership of well over 50, with six new trainees accepted last year.

We call them our local heroes with good reason.

Notice of Annual General Meeting

Delegates are reminded that our next quarterly meeting is on Monday, 27th February at 7.00pm in the Community pavilion and is our Annual General Meeting. At this meeting, the election of Chairperson and Secretary will take place, as well as nominations for Community Representatives. Delegates from community groups below please ensure your group is represented. DCRAG Capital Items Requests for 2023* for the Shire of Mundaring will be discussed.

As per our Terms of Reference* we encourage community members to join DCRAG as a representative from the Local community otherwise not representative of a particular user group, to give broader input to the group. If wishing to nominate for this community role, please come along to the quarterly meeting, or advise Secretary Colin James on cwj101@my.nlv.com.au

DCRAG - Purpose

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

• To assess the local community’s recreation needs and wants and keep the Shire informed of these needs.

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

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

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

DCRAG 2022 Activity

• The Fire Brigade was most pleased that the Bonfire removed a lot of ground fuel in the recreational bushland.

• The Darlington Community Garden have completed their earthworks, and new garden beds and tree plantings are planned, along with a shade shelter for the wagon.

• Lower Area Master Plan Phase 2 – Wetlands Rehabilitation Action Plan (WRAP)* steering committee has been formed with volunteer Project Manager Chris Arnold at the helm. This significantly degraded bushland has been surveyed and has had an ecological assessment courtesy of The Review/ Shire of Mundaring and Terratree respectively. Chris will be actively seeking funding for this local environmental project.

• DaSRA working on connecting power to the garden area.

• History Group continue to seek final funding for the Six Season Garden to be located between the Hall and the oval.

Shire of Mundaring

2023 Activity in the Recreation Area

• Replacement of vertical pine bollards 1.5 meters back toward the road and creation of earth walkway* on the southside of the oval. This will help get cars off the tree root protection zone. Shire works will occur in January/February along with some new seating on the South and East sides of the oval.

• New Pine Terrace large tree planting will occur in autumn to replace the large Pine Trees we keep losing to canker disease. Thanks to Tree Custodian Stacey August for working with Shire officer on the Large Tree Management Plan*.

Shire contractors will replace the pine bollards 1.5m south of their existing location. This will still leave 6.5 - 7m for cars. Note the dead pine tree in the background has now been removed. New replacement large tree plantings will be installed in autumn.

Four new bench seats for the south (3) and east side (1) of the oval will be wood look aluminium seating.

• The Darlington Club’s design proposal* for the BBQ area to be upgraded has been allocated funds by the Shire.

• The *Lower Area Masterplan I – Skatepark/Pump area has been allocated $25,000 funds by the Shire for planting of trees. David Grant continues to liaise with the Shire using Gerry Healy’s LAMP I Landscape Plan.

• Capital Works 2023 requests will be discussed by DCRAG delegates.

• The Sports Clubs’ proposal for the widening and realignment of the Darlington Oval, has now been technically assessed by the Shire Officers. The Shire advises that a ‘Whole of Shire Review” of its Recreational Facilities Informing Strategy will occur in 2023/24. DCRAG awaits advice from the Sports Clubs as to whether they wish to submit their proposal to the Shire Review. If they do wish to pursue the proposal, the DCRAG Oval Widening and Realignment Subcommittee will be activated according to their DCRAG Terms of Reference* which includes informing/ consulting/engaging with the wider Darlington community. The revised proposal will also be published on the village website in due course if this proposal is submitted as part of the RFIS Review.

*Further DCRAG information and documents can be found here: https://www.darlingtonvillage.org/community-groups/ darlington-community-recreation-advisory-group-dcrag/ Trish Cook, Chair | Colin James, Secretary

Initial concept design by David Lavell from The Darlington Club showing one BBQ at each end of the extended shelter with small stone walls as seating.

Letters to The Review

Calling all registered auditors

As we all know, a community like Darlington relies completely on its members being ready to chip in and do their bit when needed, and one of the reasons we are such a great place to live is because there is never any shortage of folk prepared to do this. One of the local artistic world’s most respected institutions – the Mundaring Bicentennial Scholarship Trust - is in desperate need of qualified assistance and I am hoping that one of the Review’s readers may be willing and able to help.

The Trust, set up 35 years ago to administer what is now the Robert Juniper Award for the Arts, which has over that period provided vital support to countless talented young local people - artists, musicians, dancers, actors, and many more – is required in terms of its governing Deed to have its accounts audited by

Darlington at the movies!

Dear current and past Darlington Residents, I am leading a small volunteer Darlington production team producing a film about the Darlington Community with a working title of "Involved, Belonging and Wellbeing - The Darlington Community" and as part of the production we are interested in incorporating historical material as well as current footage that can visually present the community in action and its special attributes.

a registered company accountant. For many years this task has been cheerfully and effectively done by long-time Darlington resident Peter Edwards. However, he has now decided to hang up his calculator (or whatever it is that accountants do when they eventually retire) so we need urgently to find a replacement.

If you think you might be willing to take Peter’s place, please contact me at the addresses given. It is not an onerous task, but a worthwhile and important one, and I do hope that there is someone out there who can take it on.

Chris Durrant

Hon. Secretary, Mundaring Bicentennial Scholarship Trust Tel. 9299 6093 | Email chrisctd@bigpond.com

So, if anyone has old Super6 or 8mm or other film as well as old VHS and newer movie like material (as well as stills - photos and slides) I would love to be in contact. (We can arrange the digitising of material if necessary).

Geoff Barker

Darlington Film Project Tel. 0418 953 176

Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association (DRRA)

In November, the Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association Inc. elected new office bearers, with Steve Beadle stepping down after many years of exemplary service.

With a unanimous vote, Anthony Spagnolo was elected Chairperson. Anthony is a local Darlington resident and a policy adviser and board member of Street Level Australia.

An enlarged committee supports Anthony, Louise Stelfox continues to serve as Deputy Chairperson, and former Chairperson Poul Dahl returned to the Committee, giving the executive a healthy balance of experience and new blood. Julia Richardson and Pippa Windsor continue to serve as Treasurer and Secretary, respectively.

Darlington Ratepayers & Residents Association exists to provide an opportunity for the people of Darlington to be involved in maintaining and improving their lifestyle. Our objectives are to preserve the character of Darlington and safeguard the interests of its ratepayers and residents.

Darlington residents are welcome to attend our public meetings, and we encourage you to participate. Please feel free to contact the committee directly at drra@darlingtonvillage.org.

Anthony Spagnolo.

Chair, Anthony Spagnolo

Taking on the role of Chairperson, I look forward to representing the views of local residents to the Shire on a range of key issues in 2023.

We have already provided feedback on the proposed upgrades to Owen Road and Pine Terrace Works.

Residents will have the opportunity to provide further input as we set our agenda by completing a community survey, we plan to release in the first half of 2023.

The Residents Association would like to extend a special thanks to Steve Beadle for his generous contributions. The first meeting is coming up, and we hope to see you there.

Please do not hesitate to contact me directly if you need to discuss local matters. My mobile number is 0406 805 111 and my email address is anthonyspagnolo@outlook.com.

Next Meeting

Here are the details of our February Community Meeting: Date: Thursday, 9 February 2023 Time: 7:30pm

Venue: Darlington Hall, 1/3 Owen Rd, Darlington WA 6070

Speakers: Save Perth Hills

Darlington Bush Fire Ready Group

As the DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM recently stated that the scarp area is a high risk of very severe bushfires in the coming months, it is important that we (as community members) do everything possible to mitigate the risk of bushfire impacting on our homes and community.

High threat season predictions and weather modelling from both BoM and DFES following the 2021/2022 bushfire season outlines risk of multiple incidents occurring concurrently across the state. This will likely mean firefighters and fire appliances as a resource will be stretched to capacity responding to multiple competing incidents.

With the possibility of multiple fires at that time, firefighters will be too busy and may not be able to defend your home or property. To give your home and property the best possible chance of surviving a bushfire, it is your responsibility to be prepared and take actions to safeguard your home and property.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF FIRE

• Cut the grass around your property to 10cm or less

• Remove shrubs, wood, mulch, or any flammable material against the house

• Block any gaps under floor, in the roof spaces, under eves, skylights etc.

• Clean gutters and fill with water

• Check gas release valves face away from the house and bottles chained

• Check firebreaks are down to mineral earth

• Make sure fire trucks can access and turn around on your property

• If your property has a water coverage system, make sure pumps are working by testing the system regularly

REMEMBER

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

Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade

The ComCen will page our members who are on duty.

For general Brigade enquiries please ring 9299 7217. Station hours: Saturday 9am-10:30am. Web: darlingtonfire.org.au • Facebook: Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade • Instagram: dvbfb_

Next meeting: Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at the Darlington Fire Station.

Firstly, “Happy New Year” and a belated welcome to 2023. From the members of the Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade, we would like to wish all our community members a safe, happy, and prosperous year ahead.

With many large fires occurring across WA over the last couple of months, some threatening communities, they are a reminder that there is no reason to ignore the risks of fire, and the fire hazards present in our community. We encourage you to always be pro-active around your property by maintaining your firebreaks, keeping a 20-metre clearance zone around buildings, and reporting any sighting of smoke or fire immediately to 000. Keep informed about the new Fire Danger Ratings, fire bans, and alerts and warnings in your area. We recommend becoming familiar with, and using, EmergencyWA for all your official and current information. Also, take note of any suspicious activity in and around bushland and report it to Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

In September last year WA adopted the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System (AFDRS), so be aware of the new fire danger ratings and their messages. Moderate: Plan and prepare, High: Be ready to act, Extreme: Take action now to protect your life and property, and Catastrophic: For your survival, leave bushfire risk areas. Remember bushfires are unpredictable, and the single biggest killer is indecision. What will you do if there is a bushfire? How fireproof is your bushfire plan? Visit mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au and make a plan today.

Although we haven’t had many fires in the Darlington area, our volunteers have been busy attending incidents in other parts of the state. Crews from Darlington recently assisted at a fire in the Shire of DonnybrookBalingup (see photos by Randall Elkins and Michael Riddiough), as well as attending fires in Chittering, Glen Forrest, Maida Vale, Greenmount and Bushmead.

DFES have again this year delivered us additional appliances for summer, and you may have seen our extra trucks around the station. One truck is a 2.4, can carry five fire fighters and

holds 2000 litres of water, the other is a second Light Tanker for fast attack, carrying two fire fighters and holding 500 litres of water.

Even with the onset of the fire season our volunteer fire fighters have been continuing with their training to help protect our community. Activities such as monthly training nights, skills refresher training, appliance familiarisations and driver training, and hose drills help our fire fighters prepare. Our members have volunteered many hours behind the scenes in recent months to be ready to help the community this summer. If you would like any information on bushfire preparedness, property protection, warning information, Bush Fire Ready groups, or how to volunteer with us; please visit the station on a Saturday morning between 9am and 10.30am.

We would once again like to thank all the families that came out and supported our Santa Run before Christmas. The Brigade loved driving Santa around Darlington to visit our wonderful community, and we really appreciate the positive feedback we received.

“What is a firefighter? He’s the guy next door… He’s a guy like you and me with warts and worries and unfulfilled dreams. Yet he stands taller than most of us. He’s a fireman… A fireman is at once the most fortunate and least fortunate of men. He’s a man who saves lives because he has seen too much destruction. He’s a gentle man because he has seen the awesome power of violence out of control. He doesn’t preach the brotherhood of man. He lives it.” ~ Author Unknown

Ricky Harvey

Darlington Social Cricket Club

Christmas celebrations DSCC style

DSCC rounded out 2022 in style with its traditional midDecember match against the Pony Club, followed by a Christmas barbeque. When an unexpected bout of COVID threatened to play Scrooge, the club pulled together as usual and a lastminute change of venue ensured the party would proceed.

DSCC kids of all ages were out in force again this year, with their 12 months of impeccable behaviour rewarded by a visit from the club’s very own Santa Claus and his sack full of gifts.

Look ahead

As the season turns for home, both the cricket and the social events are coming thick and fast. Late January and early February sees a packed fixture list with visits from the Nedlands Rugby Club and the O’Reilly clan, as well as a new challenge from the Bunbury Capel Dardanup XI, put together by Social Secretary John Taylor as a fundraising event.

Amongst all this we have our Tennis Challenge against the Darlington Tennis Club, with the Tennis Club eager to avenge their recent defeat on the cricket field. We also look forward to our long table steak and red wine night at the end of February and our jaunt to Molloy Island over the March long weekend. We await the theme of the weekend’s games afternoon with bated breath!

DSCC hit the greens

With the cricket season taking a short break for Christmas and New Year, members young and old hit the greens at the Glen Forrest Sports and Social Club for an evening of barefoot bowls. Event coordinator Stephen Jones’s back-of-an-envelope teams list proved remarkably successful in generating some closely fought games, even if the scoring systems seemed to differ from one group to the next.

Highlights of a lovely evening included:

• the Kozak showdown, with young Chloe narrowly pipped at the post by her older sister Pepin.

• Cliff Burns (70-something years old with very short legs) challenging the DSCC kids to a sprint race across the greens.

• Matt Parsons forgoing his chance to shine on the greens and taking on the mantle of barbeque master.

New members hit their strides

Late last year, DSCC welcomed two new members to the ranks. Jarrod Ryan, partner Vanessa and son Huey will do wonders for the Club’s average age profile, while the only marginally older Tony Dease has hit the ground running, playing in various games and eagerly supporting post-match activities! DSCC members are already making the Ryans and Tony welcome.

If there are any other local legends out there who are interested in playing some social cricket, meeting new families and enjoying some of our great social events please drop us an email at dsccdarlington@gmail.com

Secretary Cambell Giles displays his textbook lawn bowling technique.

Santa visits the DSCC

Darlington Sports and Recreation Association (WA) Inc.

Noisebin

A while ago DaSRA supported a Youth Engagement Grant, funded by the Shire of Mundaring to promote the Students of Darlington Primary and Treetops Montessori schools participation in a series of workshops and design sessions to develop ideas and plans for a Containers for Cash receiving “Bin". This became known as the NOISEBIN.

A big THANK YOU to the students involved and the team of volunteers who supported the students in coming up with a stylised Boab tree that is designed to respond with lights and sounds to any container that is deposited into the bin. The Lighting and sound technology was initiated by the students and the technology is ready for installation once the Bin is built.

Technical drawings are being done pro bono by a local architect (and volunteers are working on building a prototype to show how it works) for discussion in the community and for submission to the Shire so that final details and an appropriate location can be agreed and approved.

However some additional support is needed to make sure the students Noisebin gets built. Help with some extra $$$s for a new concrete slab, an electrician and some labour will be needed.

So if you can help make this student project reach completion please contact Geoff Barker 0418 953 176.

belonging and wellbeing - the Darlington Community.

Darlington Film

DaSRA, along with the Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association and Darlington History Group, is supporting the production of a film. The theme being, Darlington has, and offers, something special; treasured by those who live here, and to which others aspire.

Many local residents mention that their lives have been enriched by being involved and that their involvement has generated many benefits including a sense of wellbeing, security, belonging and a healthy mental state. These aspects of Community are so important these days that it was considered worthy of promoting them in a format that can be accessed by anyone, anywhere. So it was proposed to produce a film

about, and for, Darlington that documents resident experiences and stories; exploring, portraying, and gaining insight into the special aspects of the community we share and the benefits that being involved can deliver to an individual as well as a broader community, no matter where they are.

$8,000, of an initial Budget of $40,000+, has been raised so far. But an additional $7,000 is needed to get to a “Pilot” film stage where a first set of interviews can be recorded, edited and compiled for an initial public showing. If you have old footage of Darlington and its events and activities that you can loan to the project or you can help financially or you can contribute as a Technician please contact Geoff 0418 953 176.

Involved,

Reforms to Western Australia's mentally impaired accused laws are set to significantly improve the treatment and management of persons with mental impairment in the justice system. The Criminal Law (Mental Impairment) Bill 2022, introduced into the Western Australian Parliament just before the summer recess, repeals and replaces the existing Criminal Law (Mentally Impaired Accused) Act 1996 (CLMIA Act). The Bill has been subject to extensive consultation with more than 40 stakeholders both within and outside Government.

Reform of the unfair and outdated mental impairment framework is now at hand with the introduction of this particularly important and complex Bill. The existing CLMIA Act has been in operation for more than 25 years without significant amendment and has been subject to justifiable criticism since its inception. Regrettably, as it currently stands, people who would likely be found either unfit to stand trial or found not guilty on account of unsoundness of mind choose to instead go through the justice system without raising their mental impairment, for fear of coming under the CLMIA Act and never being released. It is crucial that people with mental impairment, who are found to have committed offences, are fairly and appropriately managed in the justice system.

The proposed reforms will play a significant role in protecting the human rights of persons with mental impairment in the justice system, ensure procedural fairness, and bring WA into line with best practice in other States, including through:

• expanding the disposition options available to the judiciary so that community supervision orders are available for both those acquitted on account of mental impairment and those found unfit to stand trial;

• limiting the terms of custody orders to ensure they align with the likely sentence the court would have imposed if they were sentencing the person in the ordinary course, having found them guilty of the offence;

• introducing procedural fairness provisions to provide for the rights to appear, appeal and seek review of decisions of the courts and the new Mental Impairment Review Tribunal; and

• ensuring determinations about the release of persons with mental impairment from custody, and the conditions to be attached to such release (if any), are made by the new Mental Impairment Review Tribunal.

The Government remains committed to ensuring the safety of the community. The paramount consideration for any person performing a function under the Bill is the protection of the community, including when a person is a member of a court or tribunal.

The introduction of community supervision orders for unfit accused persons as an alternative to custody is a first for WA and a significant improvement on the current situation, where community-based orders are only available to persons found not guilty on account of unsoundness of mind. The community-based orders that are currently available are not fit-for-purpose, which has resulted in them rarely being used. The community supervision orders proposed by the Bill will be able to be tailored to the needs of the individual.

There are currently approximately 50 individuals under the CLMIA Act subject to indefinite custody orders. The Bill contains transitional provisions which require these individuals to be brought before the court for a limiting term to be placed on their custody order, as soon as practicable after commencement of the new Act.

The proposed Mental Impairment Review Tribunal will be presided over by a retired judge of the Supreme or District Court and comprise a specialist membership of experts including psychiatrists and psychologists, and community members with knowledge of Aboriginal cultural considerations, victims' interests and forensic mental health and disability. The Tribunal will be well placed to manage supervised persons, both in custody and in the community.

There is a significant amount of work required across Government to prepare to implement the reforms provided by the Bill and it is anticipated that this implementation work will take approximately 12 months following its passage through the Western Australian Parliament.

Summer is upon us and it is a time of year where many of us in the Hills are acutely aware of the fire risk around us. I live in Mundaring and, having lost a house to fire once before, I know how stressful the summer bushfire season can be.

Living in the Perth Hills has made me passionate about reducing the risk we face from natural disasters both here in WA, and across Australia. You only need to look at the news to see the frequency at which we are now experiencing extreme weather events resulting in floods and fire storms.  I fought hard to ensure the national Large Aerial Tanker is based in WA for this summer and will continue to advocate for greater aerial firefighting capability and investment.

I am proud too, to be part of the Albanese Government that accepts climate science and listened to business, industry, unions, farmers, community and conservation groups, all of whom asked the Parliament to put Australia on the path to netzero emissions.  We have now enshrined into law an emissions reduction target of 43 per cent from 2005 levels by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.

We have also announced a Disaster Ready Fund, which is currently open for applications. Up to $200 million will be available in the next financial year to state and territory governments in partnership with councils, with $1 billion available over the next five years. The funding will go towards a range of infrastructure, data, land use planning and social projects to reduce the risk

and better prepare Australia for natural hazards.

Furthermore, I am in discussions with Ministers, indigenous organisations, and community groups about piloting traditional year-round Aboriginal fire management in areas that are currently subject to large-scale prescribed burning.  If this is of interest to you, perhaps from an air quality, soil ecology, wildlife conservation perspective, or maybe just something you would like to trial on your own property, please let me know so I can keep you up to date on progress.

While Federal, State and Local governments are working to improve Australia’s resilience, and our incredible bushfire agencies and volunteers are ready to respond, preparedness starts at home.

Please ensure you’re familiar with the new Fire Danger Ratings, and have a plan for what you’ll do on those High, Extreme and Catastrophic Days. Visit mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au for more information, and to complete your 15 minute bushfire plan.

Councillor's Column South Ward | Cr Luke Ellery

A belated happy new year. Council normally breaks over January so to those families returning to school, know that your councillors are empathetic but enthusiastic to get back to business. Works will commence in February by Main Roads on the Scott Street bridge upgrade. This will involve steel and concrete reinforcement to one of the last timber road bridges in Perth. The bridge will be single lane during construction so please plan for delays in peak travel times.

Addition works to come this year include a changeroom upgrade at Bilgoman pool, a new BBQ and shelter at the Pines (with critical design input by the Darlington Club), renewing the footbridges at Glebe Road and Mofflin Ave, extension of the gravel path at Rycroft and a reconstruction of Glen Road (Maslin to Victor). We hope to consult with DRRA on the planned works though if community members have feedback or suggestions for other capital works, please feel free to email myself (luke.ellery@mundaring. wa.gov.au) or my fellow councillors, Trish and James, with your request.

Disclaimer

In December, after extensive feedback from the community, Council resolved to install a small basketball pad and hoop with noise attenuation measures at the train park in Glen Forrest. The issue highlighted the delicate nature of making decisions for the common good whilst respecting the amenity of those closest.

I shared the experience with many of you in finding the Coppin Road Recycling Centre (the tip) closed due to fire risk numerous times over the summer period. I’m sorry for the frustration you may have felt returning home with a full vehicle/trailer of waste. The recycling centres are closed on days of Harvest and Vehicle movement bans (HVMB) and these are occurring more frequently due to the new fire danger rating system that finds Mundaring grouped with a more inland region (and warming temperatures). The system will be reviewed in March and Council is reviewing options to provide alternatives so the community can safely dispose of green waste on such days. You can check the Shire of Mundaring Facebook page, call the Shire office or check the DFES website to see if there is a HVMB.

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.

We are so lucky to have a great Bridge Club, right here in the hills. Bridge sessions are held at the Glen Forrest Sports Club, Mc Glew Road, Glen Forrest on Monday afternoon at 1.00pm5.00pm and Wednesday afternoons 12.30-4.30 pm.

If you have never played bridge, but have heard about what an interesting and challenging game it is and would like to learn, a

Glen Forrest Bridge Club

beginners and improvers session is also held on a Wednesday morning 9.30am-11.30am.

This session is very friendly and also great for social only players and a partner is not essential.

For further information contact GFBC secretary: Bev Hayles 0437 817 359 - alternative contact: Fred Sibenaler 0417 913 468.

Darlington History Group

December 2022 Christmas Soiree

It is always a pleasure to gather and reflect on the year that was, and it was a delight to spend time with the Committee at our end of year windup at the Parkerville Tavern. It was an opportunity to relax and recognise all our members who participated at so many levels. In 2022 we wanted to recognise the work of Rob Borsje, our Secretary and Webmaster, for developing and managing the website, his contribution as our secretary, researcher and technical advisor.

Centenary of the Darlington Hall, 11 August 2023

This year marks a significant milestone for the Darlington Hall. It is the heart of our community and has fulfilled many roles. The hall was built in 1890 originally for Alfred Waylen and Josceline Amherst, owners of Darlington Winery, and served as the new cellar for the wine production. Since being granted to the Greenmount Road Board (now the Shire of Mundaring) the hall has been extensively used by the community for meetings, private events (including numerous birthday parties, engagement and wedding celebrations, funeral services and memorials), fitness classes and yoga, senior ballet, theatre performances and local dances. Until they found new premises, The Darlington Theatre Players (rebranded the Marloo Theatre) held their first performances in the hall. The Darlington Chamber Music Series hold a season of performances each year in the hall, and since the 1920s the Darlington Progress Association has held their monthly meetings in the hall. The Darlington Lesser Hall is home to the Darlington Club who meet socially each Friday night. It has also been renovated over the years, and this beautiful stone building stands proudly in the centre of our village. We need to consider how the community can come together to celebrate this Centenary, and welcome suggestions and input from the community groups that use the hall (or have in the past), and all Darlington residents. DHG would like those who are interested in being involved in the planning for the Hall Centenary to contact Val 9299 6868 to discuss your inspiration and be available in late February to form a committee and start planning the celebration.

As mentioned in the last Review, at the beginning of each year we have a planning meeting, where we review the past year’s projects and look at those we will tackle in 2023. We have some interesting proposals to consider, and look forward to sharing these as they formulate.

In 2023, as in past years, we look forward to working with the community, the Shire and organisations to continue to collect your stories and research our local history.

Government Reduces Funding to TROVE

As we moved into the New Year, we heard about the Federal Governments push to significantly reduce funding to TROVE which sits under the National Library. We, along with other history and research groups, have written to Minister Tony Burke expressing our deep concern at this proposal to reduce the research facility offered by TROVE. We will keep you posted on the outcome.

Unveiling of 10th Light Horse Regiment Statue at Guildford in March 2023

The unveiling of the statue, organised by the Swan Guildord Historical Society, is due to happen in March 2023. The 10th Light Horse Regiment is a mounted infantry regiment that traces its history to the mounted infantry units of the Colonial Militia of Western Australia during the late 19th Century. The Regiment was most active from October 1914 (WW1), and continues to the present day. The Cockshott family, residents of Darlington for many decades, had one son Reg who enlisted with the 10th Light Horse Regiment in WW1. Reg is on the WW1 Darlington Honour Board, which can be viewed in the Darlington Hall.

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

DHG Planning Meeting, 11 February 2023

Darlington Hall 1909, Postcard courtesy Brett Owen.

Welcome back to the Club and a new year of social activity. During the past season of giving, and as part of our Christmas Party, the Club decided to collect dry food items for DreambuildersCARE in Midland. Photos of some of the items collected below. Thank you all who generously donated.

The Darlington Club

DreambuildersCARE is a social enterprise who mission is to service our community at its point of need, specifically those experiencing food insecurity. They do this as a low cost supermarket whose aim is to keep the cost of groceries as low as possible, also as an op-shop offering quality second-hand clothes, household good and bricabrac. Their FillYourCup café becomes a funky “Community Meals Café” in the evenings for the needy. They also offer mobile laundry service and showers for the homeless.

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

Coming Events:

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

Feb 10th Sundowner.

Feb 24th Barbecue with Lawn Bocce.

March 10th Sundowner.

March 24th Pizza night. April 7th Closed for Easter.

April 21st Closed for school holidays.

April 28th Sundowner. May 12th Mothers Day barbecue. May 26th Sundowner. Contact Sue on 0439 273 213 | email oshadhi@iinet.net.au for details or Marg Barker on 0417 183 826 | email margaret@pmdwa.com

Sue Lavell | Club President

Sundowner with Lawn Bocce.

Darlington Club Christmas party.

What the Frock!

MHHS presents a new exhibition which opened to the public on 15 December 2023 and will run until November 2023. Guest speaker Kate Bird, of Colour Me Kate in Darlington enthralled everyone with her knowledge of colour and style.

This exciting exhibition explores garments worn to celebrate and protect the move of an individual from one social category to another. This is known as a ‘rite of passage.’ Often there is a ceremony or rituals connected to a rite of passage to mark the event.

You will see dresses, garments and accessories worn at weddings, funerals, burials, balls, christenings, and other celebrations. Some of these items are in the MHHS collection, others have been loaned. The oldest wedding garment is a silk and lace blouse worn by Pollie in 1834, and the most recent one worn by Kate of Darlington in November 2022.

There is also a display of tiny dresses from Angel Gowns; they are a not-for-profit charity and create and gifts baby burial garments to bereaved Australian families. The team of talented dressmakers uses re-cycled wedding dresses and customised patterns to make signature angelic and elegant styles.

The Celtic Circle Tattoo of Kalamunda, display a range of tattoo instruments and inks. Traditionally people used their body to make a permanent display of their role and place in society, their tribal identity and kinship, often following an initiation ritual. Now we often see body art to display their love of someone who has passed away.

Something for everyone; we look forward to seeing you all at the Museum soon!

Next General Meeting

Boya Community Centre Saturday 18th March at 2pm

Followed by: Guest Speaker – Bill Cutler

donation.

Soroptimist International of Helena

At our November Planning meeting we decided we will focus in 2023 on Education in all its forms and climate issues.

We will continue with our monthly Mahjong afternoons, raising small amounts at a time towards our bursary commitments for 2023/24, which are a Transition Bursary for a young girl going from Clayton View Primary School to high school, a Drama and Dance student in Year 11 and the continuing student in Year 12 at Swan View Senior High School. Members attended Clayton View PS in early December to present the Certificate to the school’s nominated student for this year.

We have supported Swan City Youth Services Hub with a voucher for them to buy suitable food packs for their youth, over the Christmas period. We have also donated a Bee Hotel to a local school.

Some of Helena members met with a Soroptimist from Geelong, whose family live here in the hills, and enjoyed

exchanging ideas and information.

Our last meeting of the year was on December 7th at a member’s house, and we will meet again on 1st February for our AGM at Dome in Forrestfield where we will be joined by our new member.

Sadly, we recently lost one of our oldest and longest serving members (60 years) Delores Caboche, a member of SI Perth club who, in her time, has been club and region President as well as Federation President. She will be remembered as the ‘timekeeper” at meetings in recent years.

Should you wish to know more about us and our organisation, please do not hesitate to contact us either by phone or email. 9293 4108 or sihelena@siswp.org

Berenice Ritchie Helena Publicity

“Growing up at the Weir” Afternoon Tea provided for a gold coin

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+

Welcome back for 2023!

Scouting began in Australia well over 100 years ago, and while much has changed in this time, the core values have remained and we continue to provide opportunities for young people to learn new skills, develop friendships, challenge themselves and learn to become better global citizens.

A new year, a new challenge?

Do you know any young people that might be interested in joining Darlington Scouts? Scouts provides fun youth development activities, building resilient and confident boys and girls aged five to 25 in the Joey Scout, Cub Scout, Scout, Venturer Scout and Rover Scout Sections. We also welcome adult volunteer Scout Leaders. Scouts has opportunities for the whole family to be involved.

Friendship - Scouts is a great chance to make new friends outside of school. Spending time camping or hiking with others your own age is a fun way to get to know people. You can take up opportunities of joining Scouts from all over the state in larger events, and one day soon, we might get the chance to travel again to other parts of Australia or even another part of the world through Scout Jamborees. Scout families are welcome to get involved too, with lots of opportunities for the whole family to make new friends and feel part of the community.

Adventure - Action is at the core of all Scouting activities. Whether they are tackling a river in a kayak or learning how to set up a tent, our program ensures that our Scouts never stand still. At your weekly meetings you’ll learn the skills you need to plan, prepare and go on adventures, and by the time you’ve been a Scout for a few years, you’ll find yourself being able to take yourself on solo hiking and camping activities.

Leadership - At Scouts you’ll become a member of a Scout Patrol with approximately five other Scouts. Your Patrol will work with other Patrols to form a larger Scout Troop. Together you’ll make important decisions, set critical goals, and depend on each other to succeed. Scouting is youth-led, adult-supported. As a Scout, you get to choose what you want to do, and your Leaders are there to support and advise.

Have skills to share?

We’re always looking for people that want to contribute to the development of young people in the community.

Do you have skills that you’d like to share with young people? Our groups are a mix of boys and girls, and range in age from six to 17. Our volunteer leaders are always looking for ways to incorporate in their weekly programs helping young people learn new skills.

You could come along to a session and share some knowledge, and even better if there is a practical activity for youth to try. You may be in service (police officer, paramedic), a volunteer (wildlife, care agency) or have skill that you’d like to share (craft, trade skills). Our leaders will manage the session and the group, and assist with activities. It could be a one-off, or across a few nights to different age groups – we’d be happy to have a chat with you.

OneCamp

All Scout units around the state are gearing up for a HUGE event coming in April 2023; OneCamp Eclipse, which will be open to Scouts of all ages from our Joeys aged five, through to Rovers at 18+. An opportunity for all to participate in adventurous, fun, challenging and inclusive activities with different set of program elements for the varying age groups. OneCamp will be held from 11-19 April in the Swan Valley, with expeditions and offsite activities being held across WA. Applications close mid-February, so it’s not too late to join Scouts to have the opportunity!

Joey Scouts (age 5-8)

Scouts (age 11-14)

Cub Scouts (age 8-11)

Venturer Scouts (Age 14-18)

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.

The Scouts meet weekly during school terms, there are often extended weekend and school holidays camps, hikes and other activities on offer. If you have a child that is interested in coming along, you can have a few trial visits before making a commitment. We 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 Scouts are open to boys and girls, comprising four sections:

Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides

The Girl Guides finished 2022 off with their Presentation Night and a pool party at Bilgoman. Our Presentation night is an opportunity for guiding parents/family members to come along to see what has been going on at Guides. The girls are presented with any badges they have worked hard to earn over the year. We also have a special presentation for our Lend a Hand Shield. This is presented to the girl doing her best to follow her Girl Guide promise; showing respect to herself and others, being considerate and trustworthy and serving her community. A huge congratulations to Tessah Mancini for receiving the Lend a Hand Shield for 2022.

Writing Workshop: So You Want to Cope with Copyright

Saturday 18 February 2023, 2.00-4.00pm

To become a published author, you need to know more than just how to write well. Understanding copyright is an essential component in the business of writing, particularly if you are interested in selfpublishing. This workshop, run by Dragonfly Publishing, is suitable for adult writers of any experience writing in any genre.

Lisa Wolstenholmre is a seasoned publisher and author of contemporary women’s fiction with several publications under her belt. She previously established and co-directed Footprints Publishing and managed Wild Weeds Press, and now with Dragonfly Publishing, is focused on providing publishing services and a small number of full contracts to writers. RebekahJane Sheedy spent many years working for Wild Weeds Press and has recently joined Lisa at Dragonfly Publishing to provide expertise in many areas of book publishing. She recently ran a successful workshop for the Institute of Professional Editors on all-things copyright. Tickets from $25.

The following week the guides enjoyed their annual Christmas sausage sizzle and swim at Bilgoman Pool, a lovely chance to relax after such a busy year!

We are looking forward to a fantastic 2023, starting up again on the second week of term.

We welcome new girls aged from 7-12 years. We meet at Kathleen Skipsey Hall – on Glen Road, Darlington on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7.30pm during the school term. If you have any queries regarding Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides please contact Karen on 0403 233 907 or enquire at Girl Guides WA.

Centre

2023 Spooky Stories Competition is open for submissions

Deadline: 15 March 2023 5pm AWST

Theme: After Midnight, Cost: $10 Adults, FREE youth

The KSP Writers' Centre is proud to present our annual spooky story competition, sponsored by Little Black Dress Productions. The judges will be looking for good quality original, unpublished writing with engaging characters and a compelling narrative including an excellent beginning, middle and end. Entries must be rated PG and should address the set theme After Midnight.

Results will be announced at an awards ceremony and book launch event in August and published on social media and the KSP website thereafter.

Shortlisted entrants will be contacted prior to the awards ceremony with an invitation to attend and read an extract of their entry.

Limits: YOUTH 500 words max, one entry only (Australian residents); ADULT 1,200 words max, unlimited entries (WA residents only).

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

Inspiring girls to develop leadership skills and make positive contributions to their community.

Katharine Susannah Prichard Writers'

Friends of Darlington Station Reserve (FODS)

Every New Year is an Opportunity

The enthusiasm we all feel at this time of year is a wonderful thing and it is a great time to take a good look at how we can harness it in our gardens, and for FODS, on the Station Reserve.

Of course there are jobs we will repeat this year when we begin our work sessions after Easter, like raking leaves, clearing fallen branches, weeding and pruning but we will also look for ways to improve the environment and feel of the reserve. We always

strive to maintain a feeling of being in a little bit of bush for those who wander through; a feeling of calm and tranquility and of being at one with nature for just a little time.

Maybe you already do that as you work on your home garden; I know I do.

I often hear friends talk of their struggle to keep the fallen leaves cleared away and I do the same sometimes. However I hope we all remember to just stop and enjoy the beauty of where we live too. Soon the January summer holidays will be over and we will get busy and tend to forget all this. I hope you won’t.

Look at these little beauties still flowering on the reserve and in some of our gardens at the time of writing.

Have you ever thought you too could come and help on the Station Reserve? It only involves two hours every second Sunday from April to October and then only when you can.

We are an informal group of friendly people who enjoy the bush environment and the company of like minded people.

It’s easy to join- just turn up at 8am on the right Sunday and lend a hand.

If you want to find out more, track one of us down or ring or email Jane 0477 987 048 or email arnoldmj55@gmail.com

Diane

Left: Sollya Heterophila (WA Bluebells) and (right) Calothamnos Gilesii.

Darlington Community Garden (DCG)

The Darlington Community Garden is blessed with a team of worker bee volunteers, who make the garden possible, and who make it fun! Thank you to all these people - and those who came before - for growing our garden and community. Let me introduce you:

The Committee:

Chair: Louise Stelfox

Vice Chair: Susie Itzstein

Secretary: Trish Cook

Treasurer: position VACANT

Team Leader, Horticulture: Alison Atkinson Team Leader, Design: Kylie Brinfield

Membership Coordinator: Sandeep Shankar

Communications Coordinator: Sonja Parker Team Leaders, Events and Education: Shane Bailey and Shelton Huettig Sustainability and Kids Club Nature Play Day Coordinator: Kate Herren Ordinary members: Sally Herzfeld and Myles Durham

Village Gardening Projects and Compost Queen: Sue Lennard

How can you get involved?

• New members join here - https://www. darlingtoncommunitygarden.org. au/join-us-1

• Are you good with spreadsheets? We’re seeking a Treasurer, text Louise

• Garden Busy Bees: Saturdays from 8am

• Follow us on our Darlington Community Garden Facebook page (the Australian one!)

• Arbour Mosaic Project, contact Sally Herzfeld 0478 620 145

• Tip trips fund raiser: green waste and rubbish removal - $50 donation to DCG per trailer. For bookings, call Shelton 0452 541 069

• Cash for containers (CFC) fundraising bins in the village liquor store carpark, or deposit at the Collection Centres with DCG number C 1033 0258. We pick up quantity. Will you commit to join us in recycling your CFC’s?

• Recycling hub and bottle top collection - Drop off on Saturdays, 8-10am at the wagon. Call Kate 0452 644 248

• Find garden items and produce on the DCG trolley under the pines next to the playground. Please bring your surplus and take what you can use

• For hire - vintage crockery and bright and beautiful bunting –text Trish 0409 479 551

• Monthly produce swap meet: bring your produce, seeds, cuttings, plants, jams, chutney, recipes, a drink, a chair and a plate of food to share. First Sunday of the month, 4-6pm

Can you help?

• Coloured tiles, red, yellow and orange

What’s coming in 2023?

Designing, building garden beds, building pathways, laying mosaics, planting fruit and nut trees and running events. To find out more about us, and what we do, please contact one of the friendly Committee. Have a great idea? Come and talk to us and together, we’ll make it happen. Looking forward to seeing you in the garden, Louise Stelfox, Chair (0437 310 578).

• Discounts/Trade accounts/ Sponsorship with local Suppliers of materials for DCG.

• Trades people

• A security system installer. Call Trish 0409 479 551

Louise Stelfox and Ion Jefferson

Susie Itzstein

Trish Cook

Alison Atkinson

Kate Herren

Shane Bailey

Sonja Parker

Sally Herzfeld and Kylie Brinfield

Shelton Huettig

Sue Lennard and willing helper

Sandeep Shankar and Catherine Doherty

Myles Durham and John Yaxley

Shire of Mundaring Library Service

Story and Rhyme Times Back for Term One

Baby Rhyme Time and Story Time sessions recommence from Tuesday 31 January. Baby Rhyme Time is a time of language enrichment through stories, songs and rhymes for 0-2 year olds. Story Time is a fun time of stories, songs, rhymes and craft for 2-5 year-olds. Baby Rhyme Time sessions are on is on at 9.30am and Story Time sessions are on at 10.30am. Boya Library sessions are on Wednesdays and Fridays. Mundaring Library sessions are on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Under a Venice Moon

Author Talk with Margaret Cameron Boya Community Centre, Monday 13 February, 10.00am

Join us during Library Lovers’ Week in hearing Margaret Cameron talk about her experiences and the stories and the history of this incomparable and magical place. A week in Venice ignited Margaret Cameron's interest in the private city behind the tourist facade and the obscure tales from its history. Tantalised by stories of this lesser-known Venice she returns the following August for a month-long stay, determined to uncover the Venice of the Venetians. Under a Venice Moon (Hachette) is part memoir, part history, part love story, and a great read. Bookings essential at https://130223b.eventbrite.com.au

Seed Library Donations Wanted!

We would really appreciate donations of seeds for the Mundaring Seed Library. The seed library cupboard is bare and needs replenishing.

The lovely folk at Mundaring Seed Savers sort, clean and prepare donated seeds to be added to the seed libraryquite a task! Library staff catalogue and add the seed packets to the library system. Library members may then "borrow" seeds, plant and grow them, then harvest seeds to "return" to the library - a lovely cycle of giving and receiving and sustainability.

If you have seeds you can donate, bring them in to the Boya or Mundaring libraries. You simply need to supply details of the seed variety along with the seeds. It would be greatly appreciated if a note is included on where the seeds were harvested and any tips on growing. The libraries have donation envelopes or you can just use your own bag or container and drop them in to the libraries.

You can find out more about the Seed Library as well as hints and tips on how to harvest seeds at https://bit.ly/ MunSeedLib.

A Perth Camera

Author Talk with Richard Offen Boya Community Centre, Monday 27, 10.30am

A Perth Camera is a treasure trove of rediscovered images by the late Ernie Polis from a lifetime spent photographing the city.

Following his high-profile success with Perth Then & Now and Lost Perth, Richard Offen was contacted by the son of the late Ernie Polis, the long-time Perth City Surveyor. Ernie had been both a keen amateur photographer and a collector of historic photos of the city. This trove of previously unpublished images gives a unique view of the city from the 1950s through to the 1990s. Along with Richard's insightful captions, the photos show both what was lost and give a "then and now" comparison between modern-day Perth and the one wellknown to Ernie Polis. Bookings essential at https://270223b. eventbrite.com.au

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

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

HILLSIDE OUTDOOR BLINDS

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

Kindy Dance Time is an early childhood dance school, providing a unique dance syllabus that has been expertly crafted just for 2-5 year old girls and boys. Offering quality age-specific classes, this highly acclaimed programme establishes solid dance foundations in a fun and nurturing environment. Delivered by fully trained and passionate teachers, thousands of toddlers and preschoolers nationwide attending Kindy Dance Time are gaining the finest introduction into the magical world of dance.

Thank you to everyone who attended our first meeting of 2023 which was a “Bring a Friend” night. We welcomed some lovely new members and started to map out our plans for the year ahead.

The key areas that our branch is focused on are: craft, catering, charity and community. We have been very fortunate to receive a number of generous donations of fabrics, wool and craft

Forrest Darlings CWA

materials from the local community in recent weeks. These have been dispersed among our members with the aim of producing handmade gifts which can be sold for fundraising at future events and markets. Thank you to everyone who has kindly donated these generous gifts.

We will be catering a packed lunch for a Shire of Mundaring event in February. If your community group or not for profit association needs catering for a special event please contact our president for further information.

Monthly Meetings

Meetings of the Forrest Darlings CWA branch now take place on the third Wednesday of the month 7pm at Darlington Community Pavilion (View Terrace). They might involve learning a new skill, sharing our crafts or hearing from a special guest speaker. New members and visitors can always be assured of a warm welcome. The February meeting is our AGM: Wednesday 15th February. Membership is $70 per annum.

For further information please look up Forrest Darlings CWA on Facebook or call Kate Herren (President) on 0452 644 248.

The French Citroen 2CV was first mass produced in 1948/9 just after WWII. Prior to the war, prototypes had been built but with the threat of occupation by the Nazis several of the new cars were hidden behind a false wall in a factory in Paris. When peace returned in 1945 the cars were brought out of hiding and the development continued. They were cheap and popular, by 1950 there was a five year wait for a new one.

The 2CV was designed to help the French people after the war purchase a cheap, simple vehicle. Particularly farmers, where, with the removal of the rear seat, they were able to carry their produce or a live pig to market, then on Sunday carry the family to church. True or false, it was said that the suspension had to be soft enough so a car could be driven across an onion field with a basket of eggs on the back seat and not break any.

Over four million 2CVs were built from 1948 to 1990 in eight countries including, France, Belgium, Spain, England, (RHD), and a couple of South American countries. The simple little car was built in such a way that the owner could carry out minor repairs and servicing themselves. It was easy to get to the engine with only three nuts holding the front mudguards to the body and the bonnet would just slide out of its’ hinge, giving good access to the engine etc.

The 2CV is powered by a two cylinder, horizontally opposed, air cooled engine of around 600cc, producing 22kw, coupled to a four-speed transmission and front wheel drive. It has a 25-litre plastic petrol tank with a consumption of about 4.6L per 100kms or 60mpg and 500km on a tank full.

This car was built in Slough in the UK and came to WA in 2016. It was purchased by the current owner in 2018 in reasonable

condition but with much body rust. In 2020 it was disassembled, repaired and painted, replacing three rusted doors, the boot lid and the windscreen surround. A new vinyl roof, new interior and various bits and pieces were fitted at the same time. All parts are available from Europe.

The two-tone Burgundy and Cream paint combination is referred to as, ‘Plums and Custard’.

The car drives very well, keeping up with the traffic but best of all, it makes people smile

Barry Byers, Kendall Earnshaw’s Dad and a Darlington Dipstick describes his 2CV Dolly Citroen 2CV 1986 Dolly

Darlington Dipsticks

Baha'i Community of Mundaring

Did you make any New Year’s resolutions for 2023? We’re now a month in so how are you going? One of the topics we’ve been discussing in our study circles is how we can live a coherent life, that is, how can we find balance and consistency in all aspects of our lives, particularly so that our spiritual beliefs and ideals inform how we behave in day-to-day life.

As with New Year’s resolutions where we can set ourselves high targets to run a marathon, lose numerous unwanted kilos forgoing all pizza for eternity, and getting our doomscrolling on social media under control, our spiritual goals are also lofty and can seem unachievable. We aim to have the patience of Buddha, the forgiveness of Jesus and the humility of Muhammad, but in the same way that we suddenly notice we’ve eaten half a pizza whilst absent-mindedly lost in Pinterest on 3 January. It doesn’t take long for our spiritual efforts to come unstuck. Just one encounter on Great Eastern Highway can undo all the serenity of our morning meditation and have us berating ourselves for our evident lack of compassion and goodwill to our fellow humans.

‘Abdu’l-Baha, the son of the Founder of the Baha’i Faith, was once approached by a believer who despaired about the impossibility of achieving all of the qualities and virtues that Baha’is are supposed to possess. ‘Abdu’l Baha, in His compassion and patience, answered, “Little by little, day by day.”

This is the key to our personal transformation and that of society too. It’s not the grand gestures and bold promises of the initial

resolution. Or the picture-perfect workout routine or family snapshot on social media. It’s the messy, sweaty, seemingly insignificant small steps that we make everyday towards our bigger goals. Reflecting at the end of each day, picking ourselves up, applying what we’ve learnt and trying again, and again, and again. And when we reach 31 December we can look back with hindsight and marvel at how far we’ve come. Until then we can try to sharpen our insight and spiritual perception to ‘see the end in the beginning’.

With this steadfast constancy we also need balance. How easy it is to be caught up in a new passion, which can quickly consume every aspect of our lives. Baha’u’llah tells us “Whatsoever passeth beyond the limits of moderation will cease to exert a beneficial influence.” With this in mind we can work towards our goals without fluctuating between bouts of frenetic activity followed by burnt out inertia.

To help us find balance in the chaos of our everyday lives we can remember ‘Abdu’l Baha’s assurance that “As ye have faith so shall your powers and blessings be. This is the balance—this is the balance—this is the balance. “

If you’d like to explore the Baha’i vision of living a coherent life further, we hold regular study circles at homes in Darlington, Glen Forrest, Mahogany Creek and Mundaring. These are welcoming spaces to study and have spiritual conversations with friends from diverse backgrounds. All are welcome. More details on our Facebook page and website.

Mundaring Baha’i Community mundaring@wa.bahai.org.au www.bahai.org.au

Wendy Hardman

Cath O’Reilly

Dr Karl Bailey

Dr Zuzia Zykus

time “Why would anyone choose to live in any other way than this?” Little did I know that in the years to follow I would depart from that experience and find myself choosing to live in every other way than that!

It was an undeniable testimony of what the Spirit of God had done that day for me But in my immaturity of understanding the gospel, and my lack of having anyone to disciple me to a better understanding, I went on to live a life lacking the things that God really wanted me to experience In Hebrews the writer exhorts his Christian brothers and sisters to step into a way of living that would equip them to live in the experiences that accompany salvation

The way I was living contained no frui of God’s Spirit or the power of God in my life. I had a ticket to eternity, while being lord over my own life I was in bondage to sinful living that I couldn’ change. I didn’t know that God had freedom available for me that I hadn't

GOT QUESTIONS?

MAKING SENSE OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

thought may be in store for someone who walked seriously with God

Skip forward to the day that I realised my kids would peg me as a hypocrite, I deeply desired to teach them all about God, but I knew nothing much of Him and lived sparsely in His ways So I called out to Him in prayer and said “I am here , I am ready and I desperately want to get serious with You ” I wanted everything He had to offer and nothing less

It has been incredible, majestic even, what has occurred in my life since I uttered those words. I have come to love God with a fervency that is unquenchable. I now understand the

death and enters us into life. Righteous and in right standing with God. When we commune with Him in intimate relationship and in His Word and in prayer, He equips us to be shaped and changed into His likeness and to live in ways that were previously impossible to live. A life that conducts itself with the fruit of the Holy Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol. A life free from the bondage of sin. A life where the tenderness and kindness of God strengthens, comforts, teaches, counsels, convicts, encourages, shapes and changes us because His Spirit resides within us.

I could write a book on what God teaches us about these things…. but you know… God already wrote a Book.... and I have a word count limit!

let me just finish by saying God says “Be holy, for I am holy.” And I intend to spend the rest of my life experiencing more and more of the work He is doing within me to make this so.

Sandra Parish

God doesn’t ask us to become good enough of our own accord before we enter into relationship with Him. In contrast He says that it is His righteousness, His holiness and His goodness, bestowed to us, that allows us to enter into His presence. We cannot earn it, nor can we improve ourselves enough to become worthy to receive it.

In Isaiah, chapter 46, God describes some of the actions of the Israelites and it is clear that they are transgressing against Him. He says that the Israelites are being disloyal and rebellious, and He watched as they created their own idols and religious practices to try to save

themselves. Even while they were still doing these things, He tells them that He is God, that there is no other like Him and that His desire has always been to make a way for them to receive and accept His salvation and His righteousness. This was God’s desire for Israel, no matter how depraved their actions had been or may ever become. It was God’s hope and His pleading that Israel would repent of their ways and allow Him to do for them that which they could never do for themselves.

The scriptures teach us to look to the heart, character and purposes of God. It is not His will that anyone should perish rather it is His will that everyone would choose His ways rather than their own.

God doesn’t ask us to become good enough before we decide to seek Him. Instead, He wants us to acknowledge that we are not holy, nor are we righteous and the only thing we actually have to offer Him is our desire to be saved and changed by Him so that we

can enter into relationship with Him. We just simply have to repent from our own sinful ways and have faith and trust that His ways are the only good and right ways and that He has done the work and paid the price for us, on our behalf. It is then we come to understand that He alone is the One who can make us good, holy, righteous and alive.

"I bring My righteousness near, it shall not be far off; My salvation shall not linger. And I will place salvation in Zion, For Israel My glory."

Isaiah 46:13

I don't feel good enough to approach God. How can I change this?

ELIZABETH BUTTFIELD

Real Estate Settlements

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

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

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

St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church cnr Darlington Rd and Hillsden Rd, Darlington

PA n CA k E DAY, OR S HRO v E T UESDAY, IS THE TRADITIO n A l FEAST DAY b EFORE THE START OF lE n T O n A SH W ED n ESDAY.

Lent – the 40 days leading up to Easter – was a time of fasting and Shrove Tuesday was the last opportunity to use up eggs and fats before beginning the Lenten fast. Shrove Tuesday always falls 47 days before Easter Sunday, so the date varies from year to year and occurs between February 3 and March 9. In 2023, Shrove Tuesday will fall on February 21 and we will be busy making and eating pancakes (with lavish toppings) in the Parish Centre from 4pm. Friends and strangers, adults and children are all invited to join in the fun and feasting of Shrove Tuesday.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

GODlY PlAY

9am weekly on Sunday mornings in the Parish Centre for children 4 years and older.

MAInlY MUSIC : Resumes Tuesday 21 February

All pre-schoolers and their carers get ready to prance into 2023 with singing, dancing and a lovely morning tea.

ST CUTHbERT’S YOUTH (SCY) Resumes 19 February 3.305.30 in the Parish Centre Middle Schoolers +

SUPPER AnD SPIRITUAlITY: Resumes February 26 @ 6pm8pm in the Parish Centre

SHROvE TUESDAY: Tuesday 21 February

Come after school to make piles and piles of pancakes and then eat as many as you can before Lent begins the next day.

ASH WEDnESDAY

Wednesday 22 February at 9.30am and 7.30pm A Eucharist and Imposition of Ashes at each service to mark the beginning of Lent.

bIblE STUDIES In lEnT begin 24 February @ 12.30pm and 1 March @ 6pm

TAI zé 5 FE b RUARY and 5 MARCH AT 6.30PM

Enjoy a time of chant, silence, readings and meditation in a church lit by candles. All are welcome.

lEnTEn bIblE STUDIES

Throughout Lent, the Reverend Julie Baker will be offering Bible studies in the Parish Center with options to suit people’s availability:

* Fridays at 12.30pm from 24 February and

* Wednesday at 6pm from 1 March

The sessions will have the same content andf run for six weeks.

THE ST CUTHbERT’S PARISH CEnTRE

The facilities at St Cuthbert’s are available for community use. The Parish Centre provides space for a wide range of meetings, celebrations and activities.The standard fee is $28 per hour but rates for non-profit groups can be discounted. There is a small kitchen as well as tables and chairs for up to 40 people. Apply via our website at www.hillsanglicans.com/facilities

PARISH DInnER

The parish traditionally has a quiet January when we take time to recover from the celebration of Christmas and ready ourselves for the season of Lent and Easter. To mark the beginning of a new year of worship and service there will be a parish dinner on the church lawn on 18 February.

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

Parish Office: 6292 0074

Email: info@hillsanglicans.com

Mail: PO Box 77 Darlington, WA 6070 Australia Services: 9am Sunday

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

Welcome to St Cuthbert’s where we’re preparing for Easter

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