POST Newspapers 13 September 2025

Ten marathons in 10 days, just 20 to go

By BEN DICKINSON

Jacob Byrne’s blistered and bruised feet will pound the pavement more than a million times this month.

Jacob, a brain researcher at the Nedlands-based Kids Institute, has already run 10 marathons and plans to run one every day of September to raise money for children’s brain cancer research.

What’s more, he’s attempting the feat while juggling fatherhood and his full-time job.

“Even today I did 10,000 steps in the lab before I ran, so probably not ideal recovery,” Jacob said in Cottesloe last week, just before beginning marathon number three.

A marathon is defined as a

foot race of 42.2km, the distance Greek messenger Pheidippides supposedly ran to Athens to announce the Athenians’ victory in the Battle of Marathon in 490BC.

Pheidippides famously collapsed and died upon achieving his feat, but Jacob is soldiering on – despite dehydration, “some very inflamed and sore hip and knee joints”, and a bizarre rush of angst over missing time with his children that overcame him early one morning last week.

“The brain has these protective mechanisms where it’s trying to tell you stop,” he said.

“But that’s part of the fun for me – seeing how my body reacts and trying to problem solve my way through it.”

Jacob started his odyssey with a jaunt around the Subiaco

council area on September 1, followed by 22 laps of Lake Claremont on day two.

On September 3 he ran up and down the length of the Cottesloe foreshore, stopping periodically at his car to take on water and electrolytes.

“I’m burning around 7000 calories a day, but I can’t eat that much,” he said last week.

“I’ve been trying the last two days, just eating chocolate and cookies.”

Jacob only discovered running about 3½ years ago, soon after his wife gave birth to twins.

“I think I was running as a way to escape the crying sometimes, and I just fell in love with the long- distance stuff,” he said.

“I appreciate the mental

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Rocky Bay’s saviour

By JACK MADDERN

A western suburb aged care institution has rescued the Rocky Bay development site from becoming a high-rise blight on Mosman Park.

Curtin Heritage Living announced this week that it had bought the 2.8ha McCabe Street site and would convert it from a disability support facility.

And it said it was highly unlikely it would build the 12-storey tower allowed by current zoning rules.

Community concerns were first raised in 2023 over the potential for 12-storey apartment towers at the site to loom over nearby homes.

Who is the $1m hero?

By JEN REWELL

Cambridge ratepayers can thank a single resident – who remains anonymous – for $1million in rate refunds. The resident queried how their rates were calculated. That led to the discovery that thousands of ratepayers had been overcharged between $8.75 and $2437, for a total of $999,739.

CEO Lisa Clack has taken full responsibility for the milliondollar error identified when a staff review revealed they had overcharged 4633 properties in the Endowment Lands Area.

These are in City Beach and Floreat.

It was also discovered that the wording of the council motion to adopt the budget included a procedural error that breached the Local Government Act.

Some ratepayers have asked if the same error has happened before and not been noticed.

Ms Clack said the council’s next step would be to outline the scope and commence a procurement process for an independent external review.

It is not yet known how much the review would cost ratepayers. The external review would also consider if the error had been made in previous years.

Ms Clack said 28 people had

contacted the council to ask about their refund.

“I can confirm that credits were applied to all impacted property rate accounts on Thursday, September 4,” Ms Clack said.

Interim rates notices, along with letters outlining the refund and credit process, began being posted to affected property owners on Monday.

Because the Town does not keep credit card details on file, there were various processes needed to process refunds.

Concerns were also raised about asbestos and cyanide contaminants being released into the community.

Tensions around Rocky Bay’s future have remained high ever since these revelations were made.

Curtin Heritage Living has provided services to older western suburb residents for 45 years.

It runs the new Waterfront Cottesloe and RiverSea Village in Mosman Park.

Its Rocky Bay plan will include building new residential apartments, independent living apartments and a care facility.

A 12-storey tower could still

be on the table given that code changes are still tied up in a scheme amendment under review by the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage.

But Curtin Heritage Living managing director David Cox said, based on their Cottesloe foreshore development, a 12-storey tower would be unlikely.

“We are an unusual bunch in that we are owned by the community, and our customers are from the community, so if we did build a multistorey tower that annoys everyone, that wouldn’t be good business sense,” he said.

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“I am satisfied that … our team’s response went beyond simply answering the query and led them to conduct a full internal review of the process, which ultimately uncovered the error,” she said.

“I hope the swiftness of our response goes some small way to showing our community how

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Jacob Byrne is on a marathon mission. Photo: Paul McGovern

Jumping to conclusion of child abuse

I have followed the story of Constable Cameron Smith with great interest, empathy and now joy to read he has been acquitted of assaulting baby son, September 6).

My family are still reeling from similar charges of child abuse after taking the baby to Perth Children’s Hospital for investigation last year.

Although in an incredibly loving family who would never harm anyone, the baby and sibling were deemed “at risk” and removed from parental care. It took almost a year for Child Protection to cease managing this case.

We were labeled guilty of child abuse within two hours post-admission. The approach taken was “guilty until proven innocent”.

Understandably the system

Urban birds at risk on roads

Last week I witnessed three separate incidents on Fremantle roads – Hampton and South streets – where motorists struck and killed pink and grey galahs.

In each case, the surviving partner circled low in distress, attempting to reach its mate and risking the same fate. Watching this grief unfold has stayed with me and compelled me to write.

I urge all drivers: Please slow down. Our roads are shared not only with cars but also with wildlife. Nobody needs to race down suburban streets at more than 60kmh.

Two of these birds were killed by large utes or trucks travelling too fast. The third was struck by a police vehicle speeding up South Street.

Like many others, I was shockingly upset by the report Dog poisoner strikes in last week’s POST. It made me realise that the lowest form of life in our midst is our own kind.

Those two dogs demonstrate the expression “A dog is a man’s best friend”.

They were clearly the family’s best friends and were loved very much. Their loss will be felt by the family for a long time.

The person who deliberately did this would have made up a tasty treat, laced it with poison, gone to the family’s residence and

When you hit a galah, you are not just killing one bird. You are leaving behind its lifelong partner, and possibly chicks in a nest that rely on both parents to survive.

Galahs are native to WA and have been forced to adapt to urban environments because of ongoing destruction of native forests.

They mate for life, raise their young together, and forage side by side. To see that bond so violently broken is heartbreaking.

Fremantle is a beautiful, treefilled suburb. Let’s honour that by driving with care and awareness. Slow down, look around you, and remember this: The world holds more than just your destination. Catherine Lightfoot Sweetman Street, White Gum Valley

somehow placed the package in a location where the dogs would come across it.

The dogs would have been unaware of how low some humans can be and the evil acts they are capable of.

I only hope the police will pursue the matter further, not that any punishment – short of a public flogging of the perpetrator – would be adequate.

I am an 84-year-old man and have shed bitter tears for this family and their beloved dogs.

Murray Turner Reserve Street, Wembley

By JEN REWELL

Share warden jobs, say locals Hospice has exit clause

Creative thinking, job-sharing and making working hours more attractive to retirees were the “obvious solutions” to a critical lack of traffic wardens across the state, according to locals worried about kids’ safety.

WA Police have been struggling to fill warden roles, with more than 65 needed across the state.

Children are at risk when they cross busy roads at un-manned crossings across the suburbs.

But the answer seems “obvious” to those who have tried to apply for the flag-waving job.

Churchlands resident Brian Povey said the solution was to relax the required hours so that more people were able to take on the role.

“One of the difficulties of getting enough school crossing wardens is that the police insist that the wardens work twice a day, five days a week,” he said.

“They will not contemplate part-time working or people who can only do it a few days a week.

“This is a huge commitment even for retired people – and a disrupted day, every day.”

Application forms insist

people must be available for morning and afternoon shifts Monday to Friday, every week.

A concerned father said the “obvious solution” was to lift the restrictions and run a proper roster if the problem

was a lack of candidates.

“It might not be easy to manage, but at least there would be a decent pool of wardens to draw from,” he said.

Churchlands MLA Basil Zempilas said flexibility must

Subi dog attacks bite

By LLOYD GORMAN

Subiaco dog attacks were on track to increase fivefold this year as enclosed dog parks were identified as “big risk” factors.

As 133 residents petitioned the council to introduce a new off-lead dog park in central Subiaco, councillors were told recently that 38 dog attacks had been reported in the first two months of this financial year, compared to 46 in the entire previous year.

Many were dogs attacking other dogs in dedicated confined spaces.

Health and compliance services manager Kris Rogers told a Subiaco briefing forum that dog attacks were increasing in many local government areas.

But dedicated off-lead parks

from 10am - 2pm.

were a particular risk.

“We don’t have any control over what kind of dogs go into these parks so we don’t know what their behaviour is,” he said.

“We don’t know how good control the owner has in terms of recall and control of their dog.

The disposition of offlead dogs is an unkown.

“It’s a risk, it’s a big risk, and the risk gets a little more increased … because the victim dog is unable to escape.

“They can get cornered and that can increase the severity of the attack.”

Mr Rogers reported to the council that Subiaco did not have enough space for another off-lead dog park.

He was responding to a petition with 133 names asking for another enclosed dog park in Subiaco. The petition identified potential sites at the Theatre Gardens, Rankin Gardens, Palms community centre and the former community centre on Bagot Road.

“We are coming up to about 38 reported dog attacks and for the previous financial year it was about 46,” Mr Rogers told the meeting.

“At 38 already, acknowledging this financial year hasn’t finished so obviously we are seeing a bit of an uptick.”

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be built into the role.

“The government needs to think more creatively with the resources we already have,” he said.

“Part-time and job-share

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By BEN DICKINSON

The Department of Health’s tenure as operator of the future Swanbourne Children’s Hospice is only guaranteed for 15 years, documents released under freedom of information laws show.

And in parliament’s Upper House this week, minor parties combined to try to block the hospice project from expanding a further 3000sq.m into A-Class reserve for a playground.

Their move is unlikely to succeed unless the Liberal Party switches its support away from backing the Government’s plan.

A group of Swanbourne residents have seized on the FOI documents, claiming that the state government could walk away from the $34million facility.

“A child born today with a life-limiting illness may not be guaranteed a place of specialised, government-supported respite once the lease ends,” said Friends of Allen Park member Tracy McLaren.

But the Child and Adolescent

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YOU ARE INVITED

Visit this year’s celebration of creativity, artistic excellence and community spirit! See the works of 33 talented artists unveiled on Opening Night or visit the exhibition over the weekend for free. Visit the Bay Cafe for refreshments and morning/afternoon tea, served daily from 10am - 2pm.

Scan below to buy your Opening Night ticket online and to purchase tickets for the wonderful Raffle prizes.

OPENING NIGHT Ticketed Event

THURSDAY 18 SEPTEMBER 6PM-8PM

FRIDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 3PM-6PM

SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 10AM-4PM

SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER 10AM-3PM

Enjoy wine and canapés while exploring the beautiful new works. Tickets $60pp

Out of the box … Basil Zempilas says creative thinking is needed to get children to school safely. Photo: Paul McGovern

St Hilda’s, Bay View Terrace, Mosman Park

Sun

sets on perfect beach trip

Home is where the beach carpark is for roaming Brisbane couple Jacqui and Ben Jones.

They had heard about Cottesloe Beach on their travels and its blue vista and stunning sunset did not disappoint.

“We arrived at the beach’s central carpark late afternoon, nailed the perfect car bay and were so blown away by the lofty vista we spontaneously popped the rooftop,” Jacqui said.

“We ordered spanish mackerel and chips and tucked in from the comfort of our camp bed while the sky went orange and yellow as the sun set.

“It was awesome. They were the best fish and chips we’ve had on our trip by far.”

Then they trotted across the road for an evening beverage at the Cott Hotel. Bliss.

“We absolutely loved our Cott beach sunset platform, we sure got some smiles and waves from the locals on their evening strolls,” she said.

– Jane Wishaw

A glowing blob of dog

An online purchase of canine pajamas turned into a slightly frightening experience for a POST reader.

“We didn’t realise that the PJs we bought for our rescue dog Daisy were glow-in-thedark,” the POSTie said.

“The first I knew about it was when a glowing blob appeared in our room in the middle of the night and scared the willies out of me.”

Daisy seemed unfazed by her phosphorescent sleepwear.

Corellas cavort as quenda quests

Nature lovers in Bold Park are being treated to a flurry of life-affirming sights as they stroll the sunny paths.

One photographer was happy to spot a healthy quenda (with a stumpy tail) and a stunning flowering stirlingia.

He was also privy to an R-rated display from a pair of amorous little corellas.

Little corellas are native to WA, are thought to pair for life and begin breeding at the start of a long period of rain.

The nest site is usually a tree hollow lined with shavings of wood, which is often used for several years in a row.

Spring is sprung at Bold Park.

Subi mayor welcomes mum podcasters

Subiaco mayor David McMullen does not usually officially welcome touring artists to the Subiaco Arts Centre, but he decided to make an exception for Kate

Reeves and Gemma Peanut.

The two women, fulltime working mums, have a hit podcast We Don’t Have Time For This, a brutally honest take on the time-consuming perils of motherhood. It has around 80,000 listeners every week.

They are coming to the arts centre with their live stage show Who Is She? this weekend and Mr McMullen will be there to greet them.

An official mayor’s welcome came as a surprise to Kate and Gemma, but Mr McMullen’s wife is a massive fan of their podcast.

M s b t t h

When he heard they were bringing their show to town, he wanted to be there to welcome them, saying he recognised the impact

of their raw humour. The show is an evening of comedy, music, live skits and songs about the struggles of parenting. It is on this Friday and Saturday.

Jacqui and Ben Jones kicking back to watch the perfect Cottesloe sunset and swell roll in.

Photo: Jane Wishaw

Women love the frustrating and hilarious ride that is millennial motherhood as performed by Kate Reeves and Gemma Peanut.

L-plater stands for public office

A councillor who initiated a parliamentary enquiry into integrity in state planning is up against an 18-year-old who is on L-plates in the Cambridge local government elections.

cluded bringing back the biennial Cambridge Street Festival, the weekly park run at Galup, and expanding the dog exercise area at the lake.

Mr Tear science/international relations and business law at UWA.

The two Wembley ward seats will be contested by four candidates: Ben Mayes, Harry Tear, Matt Delmenico and Graemme Scott.

The election will be conducted by the WA Electoral Commission via postal vote.

Mr Mayes, the current deputy mayor, initiated the Select Committee into Land Development and Planning in WA that is currently investigating planning decisions made by the WA Planning Commission.

He instigated the enquiry after going in to battle for Cambridge at the WAPC, where he has fought against oversized developments in the Town.

He said he spent about 15 to 20 hours every week attending to council business.

His other achievements in-

He was the 2025 Youth Member of Parliament for Churchlands (a youth-led advocacy and leadership program) where he learned to turn community ideas into action.

He grew up in Wembley, went to Shenton College and spends time at the Cambridge Squash Club and Wembley Golf Course.

“Now I want to protect and strengthen the community that shaped me,” he said.

There has been an 20% increase in local government candidates aged 18-30 in the past two years, according to the WAEC.

Mr Delmenico has worked for Westpac for 18 years and is a regional general manager.

He speaks Japanese and Indonesian, has an MBA and has been studying part-time for a law degree, with which he will graduate later this year.

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Diversity rules in North Freo

of decades,” he said.

“I am energised by the opportunity to contribute to our community as your representative.”

Welcome for fairies, not ferries

By LLOYD GORMAN

A picnic protest to save the tranquility of Matilda Bay in Crawley is being organised for Sunday September 21.

Picnic on the Bay will be for anyone who has ever enjoyed the picturesque spot and doesn’t want to see a 140m-long jetty, terminal and ferries planted in the middle of the bay.

Co-organiser Judi Wilson said: “Have your voice heard, gather to save one of Perth’s most loved picnic spots on the Swan River, and show the

WANTED TO BUY

Doug Thompson’s retirement as Fremantle’s longest-serving councillor has opened up his North Fremantle ward to one of four diverse new candidates.

Peter Yates has advised on federal government policies and is The Asia Foundation’s regional governance director.

He is using his experiences abroad in his pitch to connect the community and tackle some of the area’s biggest issues.

“There is a lot of change coming down the pipeline for our North ward community, whether it be the bridge transition of the next 18 months or the Future of Freo plans over the next couple

Hospitality consultant Mark Woodstock is running for the third time and is seeking a new course in financial transparency and accountability.

“I’m running again now because North Fremantle needs a determined advocate, not a placeholder,” he said.

When WaterCorp gave six weeks’ notice to replace 100-yearold pipes in Fremantle’s west end, Melanie Clark was there as the voice for the local businesses swept up in their wake.

“This was nowhere near the notice some businesses need to adjust for the works,” she said.

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Department of Transport what you think off its plans for a ferry terminal in Matilda Bay.

“Having ferries come and go every 15 minutes will have huge negative impact on one of Perth’s most treasured recreation and family spots.”

The catch-phrase “Fairies, not Ferries” came to Judi when she was making a sign for the event at home in Meriwa Street, Nedlands.

“I’ve got this fairy garden at the house and I was doing the sign on the wall and that’s how it came about,” she said.

“My fairy garden is visited

You know you should have a Will, but for one reason or another you have put it off. Or perhaps you have a Will and it no longer meets your circumstances.

all the time by families, every day kids come to see it.

“It’s about community, this is about community.”

Nedlands MP Jonathan Huston will address the event next weekend – 11am to 1pm on Sunday – and Greens MLC Brad Pettit has also been invited to attend.

Friends of Matilda Bay was created in recent weeks in reaction to the state government’s plans to place the ferry terminal in the heart of the bay.

All 10 user groups and clubs

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Judi Wilson wants to see fairies rather than ferries at Matilda Bag. Photo: Paul McGovern

Harry TearBen Mayes Graemme ScottMatt Delmenico

North Fremantle

Morgan v Harkins

By BRET CHRISTIAN Cottesloe mayor

Cottesloe voters have two choices for the job of mayor when they vote next month – Melissa Harkins who is the serving deputy mayor and Kevin Morgan, who was mayor from 2005 to 2013.

Postal votes will be counted from election day, October 18.

Ms Harkins is running on maintaining and improving Cottesloe’s character, foreshore, green spaces and tree canopy.

She says development must be sensible, with genuine community consultation driving decisions and mandated protection for heritage, character and amenity.

The community needs a say in any development of the Indiana, and east-west traffic including rail crossings are a priority.

to 10kmh, not a dual-use path that allows much higher speeds for bikes and e-rideables sharing with pedestrians, while Marine Parade could be modified to provide dedicated cycle lanes.

“Contrary to strong community support, council removed a longheld objective to 100% connect Cottesloe by sinking the rail and a realigned Curtin Avenue into a trench with a lid on it,” Mr Morgan said this week.

“This rids traffic constraints and dangerous level crossings, replaced with more greenery, school playing fields, and new residential developments to meet Cottesloe’s infill housing target and help save its existing family-friendly houses.”

Mr Morgan as mayor initiated a process to reach agreement with the council, community and government on foreshore heights (later overturned by the Barnett state government).

He also put forward a plan for solutions for the railway reserve, which he says he will pursue if elected, challenged DAPs and led opposition to council amalgamations.

He is dead set against what he says is the “foreshore-destroying plan” that would sacrifice more foreshore greenery to double the width of the cliff-top path to create a 25kmh cycleway.

He said it should be designated a footpath with bike limits of five

Five locals are nominated for the four vacant position on the council.

Councillors Chilla Bulbeck, Helen Sadler and Brad Wylynko, along with retiring mayor Lorraine Young, have all nominated for council positions.

The fifth candidate is Ray Pedretti, a former cattle and sheep farmer, journalist, documentarymaker, film producer and director and cafe owner.

He said sensible development and preserving the way of life were important.

Cottesloe electors vote in councillors for the entire district. Wards for smaller councils were abolished in 2023.

Ten marathons in 10 days

• From page 1

aspects of endurance more than the physical.”

Jacob ran without any music or podcasts for the first week just so he would have something to look forward to after he survived the first seven marathons.

“You’ve got to have some incentives to keep going,” he said.

His Pheidippidean effort has so far raised more than $41,000, including $10,000 from one anonymous donor.

All the money will support Jacob’s Brain Tumour Research team, which is searching for lessharmful treatments for brain cancer in children.

Despite being the leading cause of disease-related childhood death in Australia, medical treatments for child brain cancer have been largely unchanged for decades.

Children who survive often suffer severe long-term side effects from their treatment, which can involve

heavy doses of radiation.

That was the case for Reid, a boy who was diagnosed with stage four glioblastoma at just six months old.

His mother, Jade, said the tumour took up nearly half of Reid’s brain before it was surgically removed.

Reid is now five years old, but is wheelchair-bound and partially blind, and on a daily regimen of medication and physical therapy.

Jacob said he wanted to show children like Reid and their families that they were not alone.

“There are people out there working hard to make things better for them,” he said.

This week, after marathon number eight, he was still in good spirits.

“I’ve broken through the mental barrier,” he said.

“The family is doing well, but they’re excited for me to finish I reckon.”

To donate to Jacob’s big run, search “Big Run for Little Brains”.

Kevin Morgan

Melissa Harkins

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-top walking path at Cottesloe Beach, during spraying to combat weeds in sensitive dunes. Photo: Jane Wishaw

An early morning weed spray next to Cottesloe Kindy and Childcare.

Coming soon: Subiaco’s newest pocket park

Construction of Subiaco’s newest pocket park at 203 Bagot Road is set to commence mid-spring 2025.

Following Council endorsement in March 2024, which included the demolition of the ageing Subiaco Community Centre, the local community were consulted to help inform the design of the pocket park.

The design of the park aims to provide connection to nature; be safe, welcoming and accessible; celebrate Subiaco’s character, and provide a space that is sustainable, shady, and cool.

Features within the park design include a grassy space to sit, Australian native plantings, new trees and garden beds, a drink fountain, a bird watering station, and new pathways for people to travel to it and through it.

Mayor David McMullen said, “Community engagement plays a vital part in any substantial project within our City. It was great to see so many people participate in either online or in-person survey opportunities for the pocket park, and as a result, the park design clearly represents our community’s priorities, helping the City to deliver a space that will be a welcoming and sustainable addition to our existing network of parks, gardens, and green spaces.”

Completion of the park is expected in summer 2025/26.

For more information, and to read FAQs about the park’s construction period, visit www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/news.

Image:Artist render of site.

A quick monthly update from Mayor David McMullen

It’s Council election time. Some great candidates are seeking election to seats in 3 of our wards (South, Central and East).

In due course we will say our thankyou’s to departing Councillors – Simon White and Deputy Mayor Gary Kosovich. My congratulations go to Cr Rosemarie de Vries (re-elected unopposed – North Ward); and my best wishes on the campaign trail to Cr Penny O’Connor (Central Ward).

And of course – I am extremely honoured to have been reelected unopposed as Mayor. I am looking forward to another term, with new and returning Councillors.

Teen fitness at Lords

A brand-new 8-week Teen Fitness Program is launching at Lords Recreation Centre from Monday 13 October.

The program is specially designed for people aged 12 to 16 to develop confidence, strength, coordination and overall fitness in a safe, supportive, and coach-led gym environment. Exercises include machine work, free weights and team-based circuits, with classes held after school on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Participants can join one session a week for eight weeks for $115, or two sessions per week for $200. Parental consent is required during sign-up.

For more information and to sign up, visit www.lords.com.au.

2025 local government elections

This year, the City of Subiaco local government election will be held on Saturday 18 October.

Local government elections are a great way to get involved in your community, contribute to a democracy, and have a say on who will represent you in making decisions about local issues.

Read FAQs about the upcoming elections, and more information, at www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/news.

Vibrant festival next weekend

Lion dancing, glowing lanterns, food stalls and plenty of family-friendly activities are coming to ONE Subiaco this Saturday 20 September as part of the Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrating the traditions of Asia.

The event, hosted by MCQ Subiaco and proudly supported by See Subiaco, will feature a delicious line-up of Asian street food, plus free mooncake tastings, face painting, balloon art and lantern-making.

Mayor David McMullen said, “This event is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together. With the weather warming up, there’s no better time of year to visit Subiaco and support the local businesses making this event happen.”

Read more about the event at www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/news.

Pet registration reminder

All one-year and three-year pet registrations expire on 31 October each year, regardless of when your pet was registered.

Don’t forget to renew your pet registration, or register your pet for the first time. Read more at www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/news.

Notice of cancellation of

September

Council Meeting

The City of Subiaco gives notice that the following meetings scheduled to be held in Council Chambers at Level 2/388 Hay Street, Subiaco, have been cancelled:

•Agenda Briefing Forum – 5.30pm Tuesday 16 September 2025

•Ordinary Council Meeting – 5.30pm Tuesday 23 September 2025.

The October meetings will continue as scheduled in accordance with the City’s website. Visit www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/yourcouncil for more information.

Expressions of interest: Independent members of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee

The City is seeking suitably qualified individuals to serve as independent members of its Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee. Applications will be considered for the Presiding Member and Deputy Presiding Member positions on the committee, which will be established following the 18 October 2025 Local Government Election.

Visit https://www.subiaco.wa.gov.au/publicnotices for more information.

Keep it social

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @cityofsubi to stay up to date.

Cheap rent for 80 years

By JEN REWELL

Eighty peppercorns in a small glass jar, representing 80 years of rental arrears, have been paid to Cottesloe council.

The Seaview Kindy is considered part of the fabric of the community, according to president Scott Northey, and has a deal for a peppercorn rent.

But the rent has not been paid for 80 years, so Scott handed the jar of peppercorns to Cottesloe Mayor Lorraine Young recentlyw to erase the debt.

“There’s a special narrative behind the role that kindy has played and the closeness of the community,” he said.

The gesture was reminiscent of the Canadian embassy in Canberra, which uses the annual presentation of its peppercorn rent as an opportunity to discuss the year’s plans with Australian officials.

nent home at the council.

“We might put it in a display cabinet at the front entry, because it is really cute and it is a token of the ects the relationship

that the Town has supported the kindy for 80 years, and the kindy has been building community for 80 years.”

Scott attended the kindy and his daughter Flossy, 4, now goes there.

used to buy equipment and convert the hut into “a good airy classroom”.

The kindy moved to its current position on the corner of Broome and Jarrad streets in 1955.

Meticulous record books show each child’s daily attendance carefully marked off in blue ink.

Ms Young’s three sons went to the kindy and she was able to inspect their photographs in the archives.

The kindy is planning an anniversary event in November.

in 1944 in an army hut on Cottesloe Oval, after a committee of local women championed the idea and pushed it through council.

The council provided £120,

Cute rent … Cottesloe Mayor Lorraine Young and kindergarten president Scott Northey with 80 years’ worth of rent (top right).

Photos: Paul McGovern

Lights blazing through the night are the latest torture

Four go for three seats

By JACK MADDERN Mosman

Two fresh councillor candidates have turned an expected three-way walk-in win into a four-way competition at Mosman Park.

Divisive figure Samuel Croll nominated just before the cutoff while Emily Orrell, who has been active in her primary school community, is also in the mix.

One position was left vacant by Georgie Carey’s exit while incumbents Nick Lonie and Andrew Maurice will fight to keep their seats.

Mr Croll has been charged with performing a nazi salute. He has pleaded not guilty.

“The electoral commission makes all decisions about candidate eligibility,” Mosman Park mayor Paul Shaw said.

“We asked the West Australian Electoral Commission ‘Are you sure this guy is eligible’, and they double checked and confirmed he is eligible.”

Park

The WAEC follows the Local Government Act to determine a candidate’s eligibility to run in local elections.

“The commission has reviewed Mr Croll’s profile and found no breach of the Act,” a WAEC spokesperson said.

“The statements included as part of Mr Croll’s nomination were determined to appear as opinions rather than factual claims.

“Therefore, there is no legal basis to reject the nomination.”

The spokesperson said the WAEC would be responsible for

candidates following legislative requirements.

even be close,” he said.

Ms Orrell will run as a younger candidate and Mosman Park parent.

“With children at the local primary school, I know how important safe streets and strong community spaces are,” she said.

She will be championing safer street crossings, library upgrades and a new art room.

“I am open, approachable and committed to listening to our community,” she said.

Mr Lonie replaced former councillor Robert Nash who stepped down in 2023, halfway through his term.

Candidates are held to the same code of conduct as sitting councillors and risk sanctions should they breach these standards.

“If you aren’t a serious candidate, then these sanctions are like being flogged with a wet lettuce,” Mr Shaw said.

Despite Mr Shaw’s concerns about Mr Croll, he had few doubts about his likelihood of winning a seat.

“Once the community finds out what he represents, and then they look at the quality of the other three candidates, it won’t

After 18 months in the role, Mr Lonie is looking for a four-year term to advocate for a Wellington Street underpass, underground power and a skatepark.

“I’ve championed inclusive community consultation and a safe and connected neighbourhood under good governance and cohesive teamwork,” he said.

A Mosman Park community member for 30 years, Mr Maurice is pitching his experience as a reason for another four years.

“If re-elected, I will use my considerable local government experience to continue to listen to your specific needs,” he said.

Reflecting on his time in the role, he recalled how far the council had come in collaborating with the administration and residents for better decisionmaking.

The WAEC has put a $45,000 price tag on the Town’s October election.

Postal votes will be counted on October 18.

Guilty over Kings Park crash

By BEN DICKINSON

A Brazilian national who hit and killed award-winning WA author Brenda Walker while she was crossing Kings Park Road last December has pleaded guilty to a criminal charge arising from her death.

Lucas Martins Da Silva, then a 30-year-old carpenter who was travelling to work,

was driving a Toyota Yaris an alleged 104kmh in the 60kmh zone moments before he hit Ms Walker on December 10. Ms Walker, a novelist and UWA academic, died at the scene.

Da Silva pleaded guilty to aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death in

•

Death driver … Lucas Martins Da Silva has admitted killing author Brenda Walker in a Kings Park crash.

Please turn to page 76

Samuel Croll Emily Orrell

Nick Lonie

Andrew Maurice

Fair play for Playlovers

postnewspapers.com.au or snail mail to: The Editor, 276 Onslow Rd, Shenton Park 6008. on. Boring letters or those over 300 words will be cut. Deadline: Noon Wednesdays.

Three minutes getting nowhere

Last week, for the first time since I began presenting to development assessment panels, I was prevented from using my three minutes to point out the biases and flaws in the system the DAP members were swimming in.

The presiding member insisted that my three minutes were not going to be relevant.

The whole DAP meeting ran for 30 minutes in total and I was the only member of the public to make a presentation.

Tony stamped his brand on Dalkeith with Tawarri dome

The best way to commemorate recently-departed architect Tony Brand (Name forever linked to Hale, JTC, POST, September 6) would be the retention and sympathetic restoration of the dome portion of the Tawarri Reception Centre that he designed in the mid-1950s.

This structure, beside the river west of Perth Flying Squadron Yacht Club, is worth saving because behind the rundown screening of unappealing and highly unsympathetic ad-

tively reused, possibly as an open-sided covered seating and picnic area to supplement the large adjacent children’s playground.

Such a redevelopment would save a heritage icon and would be a valuable and publicly accessible asset.

Maybe the storied Dalkeith Hot Springs could be rediscovered and recreated.

Retention and restoration would be far preferable to the over-scaled and inappropriate development that has been

Following on from Roy Stall’s letter (AdvicetoCity of Nedlands commissioners, September 6), I have some further advice: Find out what’s happening with Playlovers Theatre and find them a new home.

The previous councils led by former mayors Fiona Argyle, Cilla de Lacy and Max Hipkins threw it in the too-hard basket and were willing to let more than 60 years of local cultural history disappear into the ether.

If you need practical advice, contact the City of Armadale and learn what they did to ensure Roleystone Theatre continued into the future.

And let the public know what progress you are making.

Samantha Wright Alderbury Street, Floreat

Read the online at postnewspapers.com.au

There is a three-minute limit on such presentations, which is pretty strictly applied.

The presiding member stopped me at the opening of my presentation, which was about

bias in the system. Why? Maybe not relevant in his mind?

Who gave him the right to determine relevance? Surely it was not because he needed to save time? How did he know what my next sentence was going to be? Or the sentence afterwards? And what my conclusion was going to be?

The new guidelines for DAP presentations published in June 2024 start by acknowledging the high value DAP members place on community feedback. Really? Now we have a Legislative Council Select Committee to look at the planning system. It will be very interesting to see what they think of all this. Ken Perry Dalkeith Road, Nedlands

Memories of Mather-Brown

I really enjoyed John Townsend’s obituary for Bill Mather-Brown (Golden wheel of progress, Sporting POST, September 6).

I’m so pleased Bill got some recognition for what he did achieve in the community in his 89 years.

I first met him in about 1950. We both attended school at Broome Hill and Katanning, with a mutual love of horses.

Despite having no use in his legs, Bill was quite fearless: it was just a matter of hanging on! Many a time he came to grief only to get back in the saddle again.

Bill achieved so much apart from his para conquests. He was also a poet and author. His first book of verse, in the 1980s, was From My Destined

Way. He followed that up with Songs of the Possum and Other Verses, launched at Burswood in the 90s.

His autobiography The Fight In The Dog came out a few years later. I’m pleased to say I have copies of all his works.

Despite his disability, Bill really was an outstanding individual, never to be forgotten. Bruce Malloch Esperance

• More letters page 18

Have your say in the

Email letters to: letters@postnewspapers.com.au

Fitting memorial ... Tony Brand’s three-cornered concrete dome peeps from behind the later receptioncentre add-on (above). BELOW: Frameworks for the dome under construction in 1957.

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Commissioners Update of City of Nedlands

Commissioner’s Update 1: 2025-26 Budget Adopted, Strengthened Governance, Community Priorities Progressed

10 September 2025

Since being sworn in as Commissioners on 25 July 2025, we have progressed key matters that had been delayed and strengthened governance to restore stability, accountability, and transparency to the City of Nedlands.

Our first monthly Commissioners’ Update provides an overview of the activities and decisions of Council since that time. More details of Council deliberations and resolutions can be found in meeting minutes here: https://www.nedlands.wa.gov.au/councilmeetings/past/2025.

Since being appointed, we have held six Council meetings, passed the City’s 2025/26 Budget, and commenced important governance reforms, including moving to fortnightly Council meetings for the coming months to address the backlog in a timely manner.

The highest priority for the Commissioners has been to adopt a budget, in a compressed timeframe in order to continue to the City’s operations. At the Special Council Meeting on 27 August 2025, Council adopted the Budget, and on 3 September 2025, Council resolved to amend aspects of that decision.

The Budget aims to balance responsibility with restraint. The City had initially proposed a 4.8% rates increase, however, Commissioners reduced this to 3.8% to ensure essential services and infrastructure are delivered while easing the burden on ratepayers.

The surplus includes funds that had been proposed to be transferred to reserves. Council determined to pause those transfers so that the programs linked to each reserve can be carefully reviewed without delaying the passage of the substantive Budget.

Since appointment, the Commissioners have:

• Adopted fortnightly Council meetings (first and third Wednesdays), to progress decisions in a timely and transparent way.

• Re-established the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee to strengthen financial oversight and risk management.

• Re-established the stalled CEO Performance Review Committee.

The Audit and Risk Committee (ARIC) is focused on helping the City get back on track by addressing outstanding audits and audit findings, reviewing operational and strategic risks and overseeing improvements. ARIC has already met twice and received additional briefings.

Other matters progressed by Council include:

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Local Planning Policy 7.3 – Consultation of Planning Proposals (SCM 30 July 2025): Council resolved to amend the policy to include an added provision requiring registered mail notification to adjoining landowners on development applications. This ensures those most directly affected are properly informed.

Local Planning Policy 3.1 – Trees and Landscaping (SCM 30 July 2025): Council resolved to consult with the community for an extended period of 42 days for the amended trees and landscaping policy. Keep an eye out for this notification on the City’s media channels and website.

Fast Food Outlets Amendment (OCM 6 August 2025): The provisions within the City’s Local Planning Scheme No. 3 remain unchanged for ‘fast food outlets’ in mixed use and neighbourhood centre zones.

INFRASTRUCTURE, COMMUNITY FACILITIES, LOCAL PROJECTS AND COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

John Leckie Pavilion Upper Hall: Council resolved that the Upper Hall at John Leckie Pavilion will remain a community facility managed under the City’s booking system, ensuring ongoing access for music groups and other community users.

Mt Claremont Mountain Bike Trail: Council considered proposals for the development of a new mountain bike trail and resolved to undertake further community consultation before a decision is made.

Hackett Hall: Council resolved to proceed with the demolition of Hackett Hall, following safety concerns and the facility’s long closure.

Parking in Burwood Street: Council decided not to proceed with new parking controls at this time, as a parking Masterplan is to be developed for the City of Nedlands.

The Avenue Road Rehabilitation: Consideration of the road rehabilitation contract was deferred until the 2025/26 Budget was adopted, to ensure compliance with the Local Government Act 1995 and budget processes. Council resolved at its meeting on 3 September 2025 to approve the tender as the Budget has been adopted.

Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan 2025–26: The City formally adopted its first RAP, setting a framework for reconciliation initiatives over the next 18 months.

In addition to Council meetings and committees, Commissioners’ have also appreciated the opportunity to visit local residents to learn more about issues and opportunities facing the City.

These activities and decisions reflect the Commissioners’ ongoing commitment to responsible financial management, strengthening governance, and protecting shared spaces valued by the Nedlands community.

Staying Engaged

We encourage all residents to stay engaged with Council by attending meetings, participating in consultations, and providing feedback. Contributing in these ways will help ensure your Council reflects your local priorities and supports a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable community in the City of Nedlands.

The Commissioners welcome your feedback and insights and can be contacted directly via commissioners@nedlands.wa.gov.au. We look forward to sharing our next Commissioners’ Update with you in October. With Thanks for your continued engagement.

— Commissioners David Caddy, Bianca Sandri & Cath Hart

Commissioners Bianca Sandri, David Caddy and Cath Hart.

No papers, so no vote te

By LLOYD GORMAN

Former governor Malcolm McCusker found a poor culture within the WA Electoral Commission’s senior management contributed to the voting fiasco at this year’s state election.

Mr McCusker made 24 recommendations to the government after heading a special enquiry into a March poll marked by confusion, delays and a shortage of ballot papers. His report has just been published on the WA parliament

Borer not guilty of tree death

Infection rather than a borer infestation killed a mature Subiaco gum before it was cut down in Bagot Road last weekend.

Subiaco council tree loppers removed the large street tree near the intersection of Bagot and Coghlan roads close to Thomas Street.

website and reveals he found a spate of problems and issues linked to the $86million outsourcing of the electoral process to recruitment firm PersolKelly.

Numerous local electors provided first-hand accounts of the chaos when they attempted to vote on March 8.

“I was turned away from the polling place at the Palms Community Centre in Subiaco

“When I finally approached the front of the queue, I was informed by election staff that there were no more ballot papers available,” they said.

“I was advised that new ballot papers were expected to arrive in ‘around five minutes.’

“After waiting an additional 15 minutes with my young children, the ballot papers had still not arrived.

Subiaco confirmed the Corymbia ficifolia had died and was then inspected by its arborist for disease.

The inspection revealed the most likely cause of death was a rapid and severe case of quambalariainfection, likely caused by prolonged dry and hot summer conditions.

Subiaco ruled out the polyphagous shot-hole borer as the tree’s killer.

the Bay.

Get ready, Mosman Park! Sunset Eats is back on Sunday 13 October at 4:30pm at Mann Oval, Solomon Street.

Join us for a laid-back evening of delicious street food, live music, and community vibes as the sun sets over Mossie Park. With a variety of food trucks, entertainment, and activities for all ages, it’s the perfect way to connect with neighbours and soak up the atmosphere.

Dogs on lead are welcome, so bring your furry friends along for the fun!

We can’t wait to see you there.

safer walking, and upgraded amenities. Next steps include detailed designs, priority projects, and exploring funding opportunities.

> mosmanpark.wa.gov.au/news

Complaints collected by MLA Shane Love found an 87-year-old Churchlands resident had to wait 50 minutes in “very long lines”.

Another voter at Churchlands had a “messed-up vote and was denied a new form” but eventually got one.

One person said two family members applied to work as officials at Churchlands on polling day but never got a response and went on to describe a “chaotic” polling day experience with “untrained staff” and “very long queues”.

There were similar issues affecting the Cottesloe electorate, including “inaccurate advice given to scrutineers”, “inaccurate vote counting” and “poorly trained staff”.

Cottesloe faced another issue.

“Some respondents submitted that polling places were unsuitable for voter access,” the report said.

“For instance, at Cottesloe Civic Centre polling place, electors complained that the entrance to that polling place was at the end of an uphill walkway or path.”

Many voting centres ran out of ballot papers after the WAEC overestimated the number of people who would use pre-polls.

> mosmanpark.wa.gov.au

Workers remove the giant gum tree in Bagot Road.

Voters at this Nedlands polling place were among thousands affected by the election debacle.

Claremont needs a lift, or two

Train passengers at Claremont station not only have to climb or descend rickety wooden steps of dubious strength; in wet weather they have to negotiate hazardous puddles, especially challenging to those less agile or nimble.

And if you’re toting luggage for international or domestic air travel, good luck keeping that dry.

Disappointingly, neither Claremont council nor state Transport Minister Rita Saffioti have displayed anything resembling action to rectify this gross neglect.

If the High Wycombe station can be eligible for “assisted access” status, why not Claremont, given its promotion for air travellers?

Passenger lifts are needed, and needed now.

Have your say!

Your letters are a beloved part the POST. Have something to say? Get it off your chest and into the minds of your community.

Tough to negotiate ... A problematic staircase at Claremont train station. Photo: R. Stall

Keys to fixing western suburb high school crisis

As an educator of many years, I am appalled at the serious lack of follow-up to the closure of four major high schools with only one built to replace the loss (and increase in population).

That one is Bob Hawke College, a school where, in the words of P. Jeffery (School crisis dates back decades, Letters, August 23), “the paint is barely dry” and classes are having to spill across the road into a 96-year-old unused hall.

These closures, along with Perth Modern School becoming a school for the GATE (gifted and talented education) program in 2007, has more than significantly reduced government schools options in the western suburbs, with those remaining now literally bursting at the seams.

City Beach HS is sitting empty, although City Beach Residential College, housing 10 townhouses for only 66 students, now occupies some of the land, built by

the Education Department to board country students attending Perth Modern School and John Curtin College of the Arts.

City Beach HS needs to be reopened, to take the pressure off Churchlands SHS and Shenton College.

If a specialised GATE school is required, it could be chosen (not newly built) from existing ones outside the western suburbs that are not bursting at the seams, and Perth Modern School students relocated there.

Such schools are Warwick SHS (current enrolment 843), or Balcatta SHS where there are already specialised GATE programs in art, music, dance and academic extension. Those two schools could even become one, distributing the different subject specialisation enrolments across both.

Perth Mod could then revert to a “normal” government school (perhaps with senior

Spotlight on a deli-cate subject

Last week’s article Swanbourne frothing over ‘entitled’ cafe advises that Claremont councillors who visited the Side Piece deli on the opening day exchanged glowing

Foot to the flaw at Burswood

On a technical point, I believe the diagram of the proposed Supercars circuit in last week’s POST Letters is of an outdated hoped-for concept layout.

The current proposal is to build a tight twisty track to the north of the casino, on land partowned by the casino.

Aside from the politics, the entire idea is flawed. Supercar racing is in trouble. Chevrolet are withdrawing and for some reason Toyota are going to race a discontinued Supra. Mass produced V8 cars are a thing of the past.

recommendations at the August council meeting.

Did the councillors who were so full of praise in fact visit the deli during a family and friends day on the weekend prior to the opening?

Those invited to the preopening were treated to complimentary coffee and pastries.

years being housed there and lower-school enrolments at Bob Hawke College).

Smaller numbers contribute to stronger, more connected school communities where students feel more supported and understood, with a greater sense of belonging and learning. Isn’t this what we want for our children?

A. Beresford Waterway Court, Churchlands

Mucking up Matilda

The Swan River is a jewel in the crown of metropolitan Perth.

It is beautiful and an important part of our history, used by generations initially by industry and now by recreational users.

Keep it that way.

Previous ferries essentially to take school-aged children across the river failed because they were not supported. Don’t muck up Matilda Bay cherished by so many people. But it seems set to happen, because the machines are already in place! How can it be so!

Rebecca

Coghlan Bulimba Road, Nedlands

Lindsay Taylor Viewcrest Way, Sorrento

If so, the glowing recommendations should have been accompanied by a declaration of receiving hospitality. I trust the council minutes accurately record all that was said.

Kerry Satchwell Shenton Road, Swanbourne

Roy Stall  Rochdale Road, Mt Claremont

A limited release of double-storey residences with never-to-be-built-out views across Subiaco Common.

All the space of a home, elevated in a contemporary townhouse, evoking a soothing sense of spaciousness, comfort and well-being.

Final 3 bedroom townhouse release from $1,999,000.

Absolute park frontage over Subiaco Common

Views to Subiaco Common.

Miele appliances.

Spacious multi-storey living.

End of an era for Claremont boutiques

upset about seeing me go and I’ve even had one lady go all around Claremont looking for a shop for me.”

Rising rents, long-term leases and age mean Ms Nardone will close her business for good.

“I have very mixed emotions, because I know that I have to

creating a habit hard to break when communities started to reopen.

“Online shopping started to become a problem 10 years ago, and then it really took off a lot during COVID, because people were home more, not allowed to go out in those months,”

Parker & Co owner Vic Tana said his high-end men’s clothes would remain available online but he is yet to decide where to open a new shop.

“We do a lot more now online now, almost as much as we sell here, so closing this store down won’t be too bad,” he said.

CCTV plan for Wandana flats

By LLOYD GORMAN

Wandana residents and Nedlands MP Jonathan Huston are proposing to gift a $30,000 CCTV system to the Department

Residents believe it is the only way to stamp out antisocial and criminal behaviour at the Subiaco social housing complex.

A plan to use the technology to monitor communal areas got universal support at a Wandana Community Association meeting this month, but authorities are not keen

The WCA said it had not had a response to a request for a meeting

“We have asked to meet with them so we can understand what their concerns are,” committee member Tim

he would work with them to find the funds to buy and install the system.

Based on the advice of an expert the committee has a security plan for the type and location of cameras needed.

“It’s going to cost between $20,000 and $30,000 to get a system installed that is robust enough to withstand potential vandalism and interference,”

are regulars at

in

against antisocial and criminal activity.

“There have been calls from people at Wandana who are keen for CCTV but the department has resisted

“[DoH] have knocked back those requests consistently over a range of concerns including privacy and the Surveillance Act, but mostly down to cost.

“We’ve put this to Jonathan Huston and we’ve adopted the approach that we need to get CCTV in at no cost to the department so they can’t say no because they can’t afford it.”

Mr Huston told the committee

The proposed cameras would record in highnition colour even

Footage would be recorded to a server and stored for up to three

“The WCA wouldn’t monitor it, there’d be no one monitoring, this data would only be for the police investigating onsite incidents reported to them,” he said. The cost of running that would be about the same as the cost of a monthly mobile phone plan, which the committee would meet.

“I have been in detailed discussion with the committee to install CCTV at Wandana and I am very supportive of the project,” Mr Huston said.

“This seems like the hidden hand of departmental autocracy at the cost of a genuine and transparent helping hand.”

The WCA will hold another meeting to build support for the CCTV bid.

Police

Wandana

the fight

Maria Nardone will close Valentini after 31 years in Claremont.

Photo: Paul McGovern

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Police Beat

Mental health check for car puncher

Police, hospital security, council rangers and even two men in military attire helped restrain a man who punched parked cars and shouted abuse outside King Edward Memorial Hospital.

The man had been handcuffed and was lying face down when the POST arrived last Thursday afternoon.

Police and the two soldiers – who were driving an unmarked vehicle –were standing close to the man who was shouting abuse at passers-by.

Traffic was diverted and directed by Subiaco rangers and two members of hospital security.

The man dressed only in shorts was placed in the back of a police vehicle where ambulance officers examined him.

He was taken to Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital for a mental health assessment.

Police confirmed no charges were laid against him and that no property had been damaged.

They said they received “numerous calls” behaviour.

The man was lying in the middle of the road when police arrived.

“He was making a nuisance for about an hour or so,” a witness said.

“He was abusing everyone up the street, punching cars. “

The witness was in his car parked in the street, waiting for his wife who was at the hospital.

“He hit the car in front of me and then came up to my car and I said: ‘Can I help you mate?’ and he said ‘Ooh, can I have a cigarette?’

“I said: ‘I don’t smoke mate, go away’, and he did.

“I watched him punch cars going down the road and then he went onto a property and was kicking things, throwing stuff around.”

Other stolen items include a red handbag with a gold-coloured

and the motif of a winged insect, and a pair of gold-coloured

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Car rage costs ex $1500 and spent conviction

A 55-year-old man has escaped a criminal record after deliberately driving a car at his exwife in Marine Parade, Cottesloe.

Shane Geoffrey Lalor was fined $1500 and granted a spent conviction in Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday after he “accelerated quickly” towards his ex-wife during a fit of rage on February 22.

Lalor had pleaded not guilty to a charge of endangering life, health or safety, but was convicted at trial by magistrate Andrew Wadham.

The court heard that at the time, Lalor’s ex was caring for her former mother-in-law, who is suffering from a terminal illness.

“They separated a long time ago, but she still

considers herself part of the family,” Mr Wadham explained in his judgment.

On February 22, the woman became concerned when her former motherin-law did not answer phone calls.

She travelled to Mrs Lalor’s Marine Parade home where she heard her ex-husband yelling and swearing at his mother.

“[She intervened], telling him to stop shouting at his mother,” Mr Wadham said.

Lalor then turned his anger towards his ex, who told the court at trial that she felt fearful.

“[She] had been the subject of his aggression before,” Mr Wadham said.

The woman phoned police and retreated to the home’s garage, where Lalor followed her.

“He got into his mother’s car and reversed out of the garage quite quickly and appeared to firmly brake,” Mr Wadham recounted.

“She says the accused was still yelling, and accelerated quickly towards where she was now standing.”

She moved out of the way as he drove towards her and then braked hard, coming to a stop “about an arm’s length” from where she had been standing.

Mr Wadham said Lalor’s actions were “not towards the higher end, by any means”.

He imposed a $1500 fine, did not order Lalor to pay any court costs, and granted him a spent conviction.

“That will be the end of the matter,” he said.

Police and hospital security helped restrain an agitated man outside King Edward Memorial Hospital. Photo: Lloyd Gorman

Saron connects for a difference

A program to help people begin work in the aged care and disability sector is making a difference in Wembley.

A new MercyCare program called Connect to Caring is set to tap into the skills of refugees and migrants to fill critical roles, while also creating life-changing opportunities for participants.

Saron, 24, was born in Eritrea, but spent much of her life in Sudan after fleeing conflict in the region.

She moved to Australia in late 2022, finished high school and began studying at TAFE.

“My dream was to be a nurse, but when I came here my expectation and the reality was quite different,” she said.

Opportunity beckoned when her sister had a job interview at MercyCare, but was unable to attend.

Saron stepped into the space and impressed the interviewers, and started working as a cleaner in June.

She was quickly identified as someone who would excel in the Connect to Caring program, which works with people to identify barriers that are holding them back from employment.

Saron’s training has included manual handling, IT training and a Certificate III in Disability support.

She started her first shift as a disability support worker this week.

“As long as I’m in health care I’m sure I’m going to be happy,” Saron said.

She said the Connect to Caring program had put her in touch with a host of experts who knew what she needed to do to reach her goals and helped her in various ways.

The program is designed specifically for people from refugee and culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

While many people in the program have

an informal background in caring, looking after grandparents and family members, they may have other barriers such as education, language, or not understanding the Australian workplace culture.

Jacqui Whelan, from MercyCare, said the program was about more than filling workforce gaps.

“When we support someone into meaningful work, we strengthen their family, boost local spending and enrich our workforce with cultural understanding and empathy,” she said.

Rekeying locks Repairing or replacing locks

Supplying and installing digital smart locks Free on-site quoting 9344 1965 info@dlocks.com.au

Green shoots for Claremont trees

By JACK MADDERN

Claremont trees will receive greater protection if a new retention policy receives community support next month.

The policy would require residents to get planning approval to remove a tree on their property – and prove the removal was unavoidable.

Claremont arboriculturist Byron Joel, who advises Nedlands on tree health, was devastated when a dozen trees were cut down at the Claremont Medical Centre.

“The justification given was insurance advice to mitigate risk from leaves and seeds on the ground and minor cracking at the carpark,” he said.

“It’s not just an isolated case. Mature trees are being removed across the western suburbs at an accelerating pace.”

Mr Joel supported Claremont’s proposed policy.

Claremont council voted unanimously to seek community consultation on the policy.

do to help retain trees would be a benefit to the whole town.”

The State Administrative Tribunal recognised the value of private tree protection when it upheld City Beach property owner Lisa Zorzi’s bid to remove a mature tuart tree on her property.

Claremont environmentalist Nick Cook has long urged the Town to adopt a strong tree retention policy.

“We are all affected by the accumulating loss of individual decisions to remove trees,” he said.

“Our tree canopy has been severely impacted by urban building, higher density and dividing up suburban blocks and more recently, of course, the shot-hole borer,” councillor Jill Goetze said.

“I, too, was dismayed by the trees being cut down at the Claremont Medical Centre.

“I feel that anything that we can

“One only has to glance at almost any copy of the POST newspaper over the last three to four years to see that canopy loss is a topic of great public interest.”

The lack of tree retention measures came to a head in 2023 when Claremont saw plans for 13 trees to be cleared for a two-storey house on Dunbar Road.

Mature trees will receive automatic protection if they are 8m high, provide a canopy 6m in diameter or have a 1.5m trunk circumference.

Claremont would join Nedlands, Peppermint Grove and Cambridge with more concrete protections for private trees.

Mosman Park recently revoked their significant tree register in a move towards implementing a stronger tree retention policy, and Cottesloe has neither a policy nor a register.

Subiaco has only 25 trees listed on its protection register.

Acute stroke care has improved dramatically in the last 30 years, helping more people survive. But life after stroke is still a big challenge. Many stroke survivors face long-term disability, and recovery often slows after six months. We don’t fully understand why some people recover well and others don’t. A new long-term study by the Perron Institute aims to change this by tracking stroke recovery and personal factors to develop better, personalised treatments. Join us to explore how this research could transform stroke recovery.

Wembley MercyCare resident Ross Heelan, left, gets to know support worker Saron

Photo: Paul McGovern

By JEN REWELL

p urchase easy, enjoyable most trusted car dealer.

n the feedback

We recently purchased a Mazda from John Hughes Wangara. Our salesperson Matt was fantastic. He listened to what we wanted and pulled a few cars for us to look through. His customer service was outstanding, as was his attention to detail and the follow up calls to Hughes Wangara.

S. Scantlebury - Yanchep

Ross made my whole buying experience a pleasurable one! He pointed out that a vehicle I had professional, but caring and personable. Of course I wanted to buy my next car from him! He left me with an overall feeling of fun and excitement.

L. Murphy - Fremantle

I bought a car here last week with the help of Matt and was very happy with his professionalism and kindness. I’m a young woman so I often worry that I’ll be taken advantage of because of my lack of knowledge in male dominated areas such as car dealerships,

I’m very happy with my new car and wish I did it sooner. I would recommend this dealership to anyone who’s feeling a bit apprehensive about the prospect of interacting with car salesmen as my prejudice has been completely quashed!

C. Keesing - Balcatta

interaction, he made an excellent impression. He was professional, approachable, and genuinely attentive to our needs. What we appreciated most was his relaxed and respectful approach. He provided all the information we needed, answered our questions honestly and gave us the space to make our own decisions, without ever being pushy or overly sales driven. Zac was not only knowledgeable, but also friendly and sincere throughout the process. It was clear that he prioritised our satisfaction over just making a sale, which made the experience all the more positive. We highly recommend Zac to anyone looking for a straightforward, trustworthy, and enjoyable car buying experience.

M. Singh - Piara Waters

WOW!! Just bought a Chery Omoda 5! If you’re looking for a great car don’t go past the Omoda! I thoroughly recommend Julian who sold me the car. His customer service was amazing and professional, there was no push for the sale as he was eager to get the right car and colour that I wanted. Well done Julian. We will certainly let our family and friends know about our great experience!

A. Love - Maylands

As ever, exceptional service from the team at John Hughes, Honest, transparent and knowledgeable. It’s why we always come back to you for our cars. Aimee at Kia was informed, helpful and friendly - we would highly recommend her to friends and family.

A. Brimacombe - Nedlands

(Michael). It was the most professional service I have ever received when purchasing a car from a dleaership. Matt was a true depiction of what John Hughes stands for. I highly the whole process so much easier than it usually is.

S. Waltham - Bennett Springs

The salesperson was polite, friendly, respectful, informative, helpful and easy to deal with.

J. Giddy - Floreat

I can’t fault anything, all the sales people were great, the best experience I have had at buying a car. Thank you.

L. Smith - Kardinya

Mr. Hughes, I came to your yard in Victoria Park, because the ads I see on TV and hear on the radio actually make me happy. You are so personable and I’m drawn to you like David decided to visit your Victoria Park location, which was the best decision we made. The service we received was impeccable and my 3 year old was not looked upon as an inconvenience, Brad and I were treated with respect and not left wandering the yard, straight away we were greeted by Mende, who was ever so helpful, he took the time to explain everything regarding to your Company. If you have employee of the month, I would nominate him. His people skills were amazing, his explanation of the sales process was clear and not over the top, he was a real genuine guy, whom we all felt comfortable with and he treated us with the utmost respect. There was no faulting him. I also wanted to share with you, every person I came into contact with at the Victoria Park yard were incredible, they were, Julian, Mende, Lynlet and Logan, all were professional and lovely. I honestly have to say though, hand on heart, I love hearing and watching your ads, you are like the King Neptune in Two Rocks, where I live, expect you are him on a bigger scale, not only of Victoria Park, but WA itself. I’m looking forward to our photo when the Chery arrives.

J. Lunton - Two Rocks

Thank you so much to Marshall for all the help and excellent service on the purchase of my car. This is my fourth car I have purchased from John Hughes and I have always had a good experience and service is great. Once again, thank you Marshall.

L. Poletti - Yangebup

I would like to thank Han for his knowledge and assistance in purchasing my new car. Such an easy process, I was feeling very anxious but was put at ease. This was the 3rd car purchased at John Hughes and I don’t think I will bother again going to anyone else.

L. Burgess - Beechboro

Loving my MG ZS Turbo. During the demo drive Zac was knowledgeable and helpful, making customer service. I highly recommend.

J. Rowe - North Coogee

John Hughes

Kirsty exhibited exceptional professionalism and demonstrated extensive expertise in her role. The entire process was seamless and clearly communicated.

J. Still - Ridgewood

From the moment I walked onto the forecourt it was brilliant, honest and trustworthy. Very

R. Allan - Stoneville

We live 500km from Perth and found our new work vehicle online. Matt was our salesperson and was very helpful. The Toyota Workmate was in the exact condition he described when we

home on the day we nominated. Thank you John Hughes team in Wangara!

R. Hose - Isseka

My husband and I purchased a new Hyundai and the sales team were very helpful and professional in their handling of the sale and we wish to thank them for their help.

F & L. Ryan - Perth

My son and I visited your Vic Park dealership with the intention of purchasing a car. Alex patiently showed us around and took the time to explain the various features of the vehicles.

to consider our options. He was friendly, professional, and genuinely listened to what I was looking for in a vehicle. Once I had made my decision, the rest of the paperwork was handled seamlessly. Lynley also provided information about the extended warranty. She did so with warmth and professionalism, and again, I didn’t feel pressured. Instead, I was given the opportunity to consider my options over the weekend, which I greatly appreciated. VW vehicles through John Hughes. The experience has always been positive, and I would not hesitate to recommend John Hughes to friends and family. Thank you to your amazing team for everything they did. It didn’t feel like it was ‘just a job’ - it felt more personal and personable. Thank you!

M. Cockrell - High Wycombe

Thanks to the knowledge and advice of Syed, we are very happy with our 1st car since moving to Aus! Thanks again for your time and help Syed - great service.

M. Ebsworth - Carlisle

I recently had the pleasure of working with Nicolle while purchasing my T-Cross, and I can we met, she was incredibly friendly, personable, and made me feel completely at ease. No pressure, no sales tactics, just genuine care and professionalism. Nicolle never rushed me, every step of the way. She kept me updated throughout the entire process, and I always knew exactly what was happening. I’m incredibly grateful for this experience, as purchasing this car came after years of hard work. It was lovely to have Nicolle share genuine excitement with me during this process! I will absolutely be recommending her! Thank you again, Nicolle!

T. Cook - Golden Bay

process. They were very helpful & gave us a good deal on our trade in vehicle. Very happy, thanks guys!

T. Vermuelen - Walpole

I’ve bought four cars from John Hughes over the past 15 years and keep returning due to the high quality products and professional customer care experience. This time around was no

is why I continue to be a repeat customer.

D. Falkiner - City Beach

John Hughes, many thanks to you, Brayden and Chad for the journey which was seamless and professionally organised from beginning to end. It was an absolute no-brainer to return to model, designed to provide many kilometres of trouble free motoring.

B. Dick - Wembley Downs

We have had at least 3 cars from John Hughes and know that we would have exactly what we ordered. I wouldn’t go anywhere else, no complaints.

N. Pick - Success

I have purchased many cars in my time from other dealers but my dealing with John Hughes

D. Whaling - Halls Head

Matt was friendly, helpful, non pushy and understanding of what my wife and I were looking for. He did not rush us into making any decisions. He was friendly and had time to listen.

P. Hoarau - Darch

Thanking Zac for a great experience in buying our MG3 at John Hughes. Very friendly & jovial through the whole process! Highly recommend for an easy time buying a new car!

R. Eastwood - Bayonet Head

Excellent service, huge range, got a great deal on a SUV. Our sales rep Marshall was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and made the purchase process smooth and stress free. I would highly recommend using John Hughes Used Cars Welshpool.

B. Shergold - Secret Harbour

A. McColley - Camillo

Very helpful team throughout the whole process. Quick, easy and never made me feel pressured into a sale. Special mention to Matt for his care and attention.

A. Hollis - Hammond Park

I recently purchased a Honda Jazz from John Hughes and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. A big thank you to Syed, my salesperson, who was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable and professional. He made everything smooth and stress-free, answering all my questions with patience and making sure I was comfortable with my decision. Highly recommend asking for Syed if you’re looking for a great car buying experience.

R. Thapa - Rivervale

Sales consultant Matthew, from Victoria Park was very patient, helpful, answered all our queries and made it a pleasant experience and stress free. Thanks Matt!

T. Krishna - Morley

What a joy! We took delivery of our new MG ZST this week from John Hughes in Victoria Park. What a delight to drive. Throughout the whole purchase experience we were skillfully guided by a very knowledgeable and polite young man, Zac. His no pressure sales skills were drive to delivery in under 3 weeks we were very impressed. Our thanks go to Zac and the team at John Hughes for providing a truly stress free experience and a fantastic vehicle with truly remarkable value. Thank you Zach.

A. Winterburn - Bayswater

Excellent service from Jake and the John Hughes team! I recently purchased a car from John Hughes and had a fantastic experience. Thanks to Jake, who was incredibly helpful, professional and genuinely friendly. He listened to what I needed, answered all my questions honesty and down to earth nature. There was no pressure - just great customer service. He

with the service I received and would highly recommend Jake and the John Hughes team to anyone looking to buy a car.

N. Olonsaikhan -Victoria Park

We recently purchased a vehicle from Zac, and couldn’t be more wrapped with the knowledgeable of the vehicles. Would recommend him to anyone buying an MG.

A. Phillips -Canning Vale

I recently purchased a car from Marshall at John Hughes Welshpool and couldn’t be happier organised, and helpful—no pressure, just honest advice and support. He took the time to understand my needs and provided several options that suited my budget. Everything was hassle-free and ran on time. Before I knew it, I was driving out of the lot with the vehicle. Highly recommend this dealership to anyone looking for a smooth and trustworthy car buying experience!

S. Pizzolante - Bedford

Vince was very knowledgeable about the MG, he was also very attentive and did all in his was also extremely helpful. Both the above named gentlemen were a pleasure to deal with. Thank you both from one very happy MG owner.

D. Martin - Bertram

I had a great experience recently purchasing my new car. The team at John Hughes Welshpool were all fantastic and very helpful every step of the way. Marshall made the whole process

S. Hancock - Parkwood

My partner and I actually spoke about how great you all were and how professional your team was as we had bought another car from another dealer earlier that day and wished we had towards me.

D. Gibson - Stratham

much easier and more enjoyable. I can say all in all, it was a great experience. Thank you.

C. Chidamahiya - Rangeway

I recently had the pleasure of meeting one of MG’s car salesman’s, Zac. From our arrival he was attentive, personable and patient. He understood the gravity of a new car purchase and answered our questions honestly and without pressure. As a nervous driver I was dreading the test drive initially, which Zac picked up on. He took the extra time to take us to a low

multiple other car yards to determine which car was right for me. This unfortunately was never matched with the same customer service I received from Zac.

A. Fyvie - Huntingdale

Marshall is an excellent salesperson and made my car purchase and handover smooth and seamless. I’m extremely happy with the service provided by John Hughes Welshpool. Thank you to all the team.

B. Johnson - Beckenham

I would just like to say a big thanks to Matt and the team at John Hughes in Wangara for making my buying experience of a used vehicle extremely smooth and easy. From Matt’s no

P. Turner - Craigie

for him. He reassured me that I can contact him any time if I had any more questions about the car and made me feel at ease during the process. Trent didn’t apply pressure and try to force me into the sale. Thank you Trent.

L. Vermaak - Tapping

Went in to buy my second new car from John Hughes. That is where I met Brayden and Jason. They are extremely knowledgeable with the product line and they could not do enough back to buy my next car from John Hughes. Thank you very much!

T. Riemer - Hilbert

I had a great experience with Marshall. He was incredibly patient, helpful, and made the whole process stress free, great service. I highly recommend it.

B. Bergman - Mirrabooka

I have recently purchased an MG ZS Hybrid from John Hughes. My experience has been amazing, Zac the salesman is very professional and made the process really smooth. Got the car delivered in no time. I highly recommend it!

J. Kumar - Canning Vale

I couldn’t be happier with the purchase of my new Kona, it is beautiful. Brayden assisted me with choice, purchase and set up. He was so knowledgeable, polite, respectful and a pleasure to deal with! I would gladly recommend Brayden to family and friends.

C. Hughes - Caversham

shared my budget, preferences, and requirements with him and he found the perfect car for me. He was professional, honest and very easy to communicate with. He kept me updated every step of the way and was always available to answer any questions I had. Jack sorted process was smooth and stress-free thanks to both of their support and knowledge. Highly recommend both of them when buying a car!

A. Paterniti - Dianella

ever had when buying a car and the very best price - saved thousands. Aimee was absolutely brilliant - friendly, excellent knowledge, obliging, patient, meticulous and we got a great deal.

G. Blake - Leeming

Matt was awesome, extremely helpful and very friendly, and found us our car!

F. Maugey - Lower Chittering

Adam was extremely knowledgeable and courteous, and at all times was extremely helpful.

V. Dixon - Bentley

trouble. Communication was excellent.

L. Discombe - Baldivis

The service from Alex and Dave from Volkswagen was exceptional and I couldn’t ask for a better service.

K. Ward - Bellevue

T. Mason - Belmont

We recently purchased a car from John Hughes Vic Park. Our salesman Han was amazing, he found us the perfect car (with a great price) The process was quick and easy. I highly recommend you ask for Han if you’re down that way.

M. Baxter - Beckenham

Matt has been brilliant both times we have dealt with him. He has a calm nature, not pushy or overbearing and made us feel completely comfortable to make decisions without any pressure. He is knowledgeable and kept us informed and he is an asset to John Hughes!

A. O’Brien - Banksia Grove

John and Aimee at Kia were exceptionally friendly and made the entire purchasing process simple, clear and punctual.

A. Macpherson - Piara Waters

Customer service from Jordan was excellent. He was extremely helpful in all aspects as was his knowledge of all cars. He made a stressful time of looking and picking a car more enjoyable and relaxing.

J. Stewart - Dawesville

The John Hughes experience was 5 star, whilst looking for a used car I was approached by

consultants were very polluted and invited browsing without any further input. The 4th sales consultant was again polite and respectful. A vehicle I had not considered was on display and without driving any other view the deal was sealed. Such a great and low pressure experience.

V. Beech - Scarborough

Han was really good to deal with, patient and welcoming. As a family we have now purchased 4 vehicles from John Hughes car yard and the experience has been good every time.

I recently bought a car from John Hughes Vic Park and can’t recommend Mathew enough. He was very patient and not pushy at all, and was happy to help and answer any questions we had, even when I was being very confused and indecisive. I’m very happy with my recent purchase!

M. Polini - Victoria Park

Silence on luxury suite cost

By LLOYD GORMAN

Australia’s richest woman Gina Rinehart and St John of God Hospital Subiaco have declined to reveal any details of a major donation she made to fund two luxury patient suites.

The religious hospital recently opened the $1000-anight suites for cashed-up patients thanks “to Mrs Rinehart and the Rinehart Medical Foundation for their generous philanthropic support”. ( Gina’s top-notch St John’s wards, POST August 16.)

The hospital and foundation welcomed media coverage of the trial opening of the suites – which come with a

dedicated parking spot – but did not want to talk about the size of the donation in question.

“We’re a polite decline on this,” a foundation representative said.

The hospital was not willing to reveal the sum.

“We are fortunate to receive many donations and are committed to respecting the privacy of donors,” the hospital told the POST.

“We are unable to disclose the gift amount publicly.”

The billionaire mining magnate makes regular donations to sports groups and healthcare

charities she supports through Hancock Prospecting and RMF, with the amounts of those donations often revealed.

She gave the Royal Flying Doctors Service $6million in 2020 to help it boost its response to COVID19; and $16million on another occasion.

She also heavily supports the Australian swimming team.

St John announced the suites in November 2023 and said they would be expected to open by late 2024 for a 12month evaluation period.

That trial started in late July.

Vape sales smoked out

By JACK MADDERN

Over-the-counter vape sales have been eradicated in WA but illegal sales persist, according to new Notre Dame University research.

A doctor’s prescription is required to buy vapes legally at pharmacies.

But the extent of illicit sales in the western suburbs is evident from schools such as Presbyterian Ladies’ College installing vape detectors in their bathrooms.

Buying or selling vapes without a prescription carries a penalty of up to seven years in prison.

WA had 194 vape sellers last year before national legislation criminalised sales.

The Notre Dame study three months later found 117 shops had closed, 76 remained open but showed no signs of selling vapes, and only one continued to illegally sell vapes over the counter.

Pressure from Subiaco residents drove out the western suburbs’ only overt vape seller in August 2023.

The Rokeby Road shop’s attempt to advertise as the Tobacconist Discount Cigarettes and Vapes was opposed by the community that forced the business owner to rename it as The Convenience Store.

But the shop closed a week after Curtin MP Kate Chaney criticised it.

“About 100 metres from Subiaco Primary School, a new discount vape and cigarette store has just opened on Rokeby Road,” Ms Chaney said.

“Their colourful packaging is clearly being marketed towards young adults, teenagers and even children.”

Researchers performed inperson audits and found that over-the-counter sales were declining.

But under-the-counter sales continued, in particular around inner Perth.

“Almost one in two of the 32 inner Perth convenience stores we visited in person were selling vapes,” study co-author Angela Gazey said.

“Eleven of these stores were still doing so three months later, after the new national legislation took hold.”

The nearest shops to the western suburbs are Cloud 9 in Osborne Park and Variety Gifts in Innaloo, both of which have shown no evidence of continued vape sales.

The same researchers found that vape stores were most prolific in low socio-economic communities because of the longestablished relationship those communities have with tobacco products.

The Department of Health has conducted 1600 inspections and seized more than 190,000 vapes since January 2024.

Gina Rinehart

A worker removed signage from a vape shop in Subiaco in 2023. The shop closed a week later. Photo: Billie Fairclough

Puzzle works for piece of mind

puzzles,” she said.

By LLOYD GORMAN

Two western suburb schools pieced together the right formula to win the recent state jigsaw puzzle competition at Claremont Showground.

A Shenton College team of four Year 9 students blitzed the two-hour limit to put together a 500-piece image of London’s Big Ben clock tower in just 36min. 48sec.

Students from Swanbourne Primary came second in 36.48.

Shenton College teacher

Samantha White set up a jigsaw lunch club this year as a way to focus on positive mental health and wellbeing.

“We had a dozen or so students show up from day one, all very keen on completing jigsaw

“I saw the drive and motivation in a group of Year 9 boys and we decided to aim for the state championships.

“Over the weeks we worked on strategies and chose the final team of four students while other students still attended at lunchtimes to complete jigsaw puzzles for fun.

“I am very proud of the team.

“They are delightful Year 9 boys who have stumbled upon a fun activitiy to do with friends.

“It creates an opportunity for improving communication, collaboration, resilience.”

The Shenton College team will compete in the national championships in Melbourne in November and are looking for sponsorship to help get there.

Hospital life-savers get funding help

By LLOYD GORMAN

Three King Edward Memorial Hospital medicos have received $115,000 for life-saving research projects.

The Women and Infants Research Foundation handed out $260,000 in funding last Friday as part of women’s health week.

Two $45,000 research acceleration awards went to clinical psychologist Kelli MacMillan and neonatal paediatrician Gayatri Jape.

Dr MacMillan received help for her project to screen for childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder.

The original study aims to improve perinatal service delivery, maternal mental health, and infant outcomes.

Dr Jape won funding for her project to predict the risk of the devastating bowel condition

necrotising enterocolitis.

It will evaluate a predictive clinical tool to enable earlier intervention and better outcomes for vulnerable newborns.

Gynaecological nurse researcher Natalie Williams was

awarded a $25,000 grant to help address chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

The condition affects up to 70% of women undergoing treatment

for ovarian and other gynaecological cancers, leading to pain, numbness, falls and reduced quality of life.

Ms Williams’ study will codesign, test, and evaluate a sustainable hand-foot exercise program to provide women with practical self-management tools to reduce symptom severity and improve daily functioning.

The third $45,000 research acceleration grant went to Bradley MacDonald, a Perth Children’s Hospital paediatrician.

His project aims to improve clinical trial access for 63,000 WA children with rare diseases.

The largest grant of $100,000 went to Curtin University researcher Yu Yu, to help her develop a new treatment for chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer.

WIRF chief scientist Matt Kemp said the funding reflected the foundation’s commitment to tackling pressing health challenges affecting women, babies and families.

“These projects are addressing some of the most urgent and under-recognised challenges in women’s and family health – from ovarian cancer relapse, to the long-term impacts of chemotherapy, to childbirth trauma, neonatal disease, and the devastating inequities facing families affected by rare diseases,” he said.

“By investing in these researchers, we are investing in better futures for women, babies and families.”

Prof. Kemp said the WIRF would award $500,000 in research grants next year.

Subi two-way no way for now

Hay Street in East Perth opened up to twoway traffic last Sunday, but a longstanding plan to convert Hay Street in Subiaco appears to be going nowhere.

The changes apply to Hay Street between Victoria Avenue and Bennett Street, and to Victoria Avenue between Adelaide Terrace and Hay Street.

According to Perth City Council there is now “uninterrupted two-way traffic on Hay Street from the Causeway to Barrack Street”, which will make the city more connected and accessible.

Last week the council said it would be converting Hay Street between Elder Street in

West Perth to Thomas Street, on the border with Subiaco.

Perth has had the conversion policy since 2014, and plans to extend the two-way flow to the entire length of Hay Street within its borders, apart from the pedestrian mall section between William and Barrack streets.

Subiaco council has had a lot less luck with its two-way conversion project for Hay Street – and Roberts Road – which have been on the City’s to-do list since 2013.

Six years ago the cost of the project was estimated at $8million ($2m blow-out for dual roads, POST, September 14 2019.

The two councils had hoped to have two-way traffic for both ends of Hay Street in time for the opening of Bob Hawke College in February 2020.

Subiaco mayor David McMullen said they wanted to convert their section of the main street to improve access for drivers, bus routes and businesses and create “a greater sense of place”.

Studies showed it would also slow traffic and reduce the severity of crashes.

“Our

“A key enabler for the conversion of Hay Street and Roberts Road to two-way would be the widening of Thomas Street,” Mr McMullen said.

Subiaco had asked state and federal government for funding to change the road system but had been knocked back.

A Main Roads WA spokesperson told the POST: “Thomas Street is a local road under the care and control of City of Perth, Subiaco and Town of Cambridge. Therefore, your enquiry is best directed to them in this instance.”

Perth City Council said it had funded the entire conversion from its own coffers.

“The East Perth component of the Hay Street (and Victoria Avenue) two-way conversion cost approximately $10million,” a spokesperson said.

Funding will help King Edward Memorial Hospital medicos attempt to save lives.

David McMullen

Puzzlers … Left to right, Shenton College jigsaw team students Ronan Mullins, Emerson Reid, Alex Teichert and Oscar Gryl are in serious training for the Nationals in Melbourne in November.

46 Keane Street

Peppermint Grove

Prestige Living Opposite Manners Hill Park

Set opposite the green expanse of Manners Hill Park, with Freshwater Bay Yacht Club and the river as its backdrop, 46 Keane Street offers an enviable 875sqm corner landholding in one of Peppermint Grove’s most tightly held enclaves. With dual street frontages and prized northern and eastern aspects, this site invites a statement architectural design—where natural light, parkland views, and riverside ambience can be showcased to perfection. From this vantage, mornings begin with walks along the foreshore, afternoons flow effortlessly to the yacht club or Cottesloe Beach, and evenings bring sundowners framed by river glimpses and leafy park surrounds. The rhythm here is one of ease, elegance, and connection to both nature and community.

OFFERS

All Offers by 4pm, 4 October 2025 (Unless Sold Prior)

JUSTIN WALLACE 0406 755 845

justin@wallacerealestate.com.au

OLIVIA RUELLO 0412 220 225

olivia@wallacerealestate.com.au

Land Area: 875 m 2

Shents students score a hat-trick

Shenton College students have scored a hat-trick by knocking out their competition to claim the top prize in not one but three fields of endeavour.

On Wednesday August 27 Shenton hockey players won 2-1 at home against Como Senior High School in the Schools Sports WA hockey final, known as the David Bell Cup, for senior boys.

Shenton College students beat Perth Modern School by a narrow margin in the WA Debating League’s senior grand final at the WA State Library on August 26.

And the college was named champion rowing school at the All Schools State Championships, thanks to its rowers who competed at Champion Lakes on August 23 in the event run by Rowing WA. Principal Michael Morgan praised the students’ all-round performance.

“Our society and our schools are richer when we allow our children to compete across all sectors and when we allow for competition between independent, government and Catholic schools,” he said.

Enjoy the 10 newest murals in Subiaco during the See Subi on Sunday free walk beginning at 1.30pm this Sunday.

Public art in Subiaco continues to enhance the experience of visiting commercial locations.

The No More Blank Walls street art festival attracted 48,000 spectators over 10 days in October last year.

It turned the streets into a bright canvas of creativity to beautify the city and bring people together to celebrate street art culture.

This walk will take attendees

to the 10 newest installations, some of which are hidden treasures, as well as previous artworks.

One of the most iconic is “Subiaco was Built on a Sunday” in Kannis Lane, next to 147 Rokeby Road, painted by Mel McVee in 2016 and recently restored.

The walk is free and will leave from, and return to, the southern side of Subiaco Station in Rokeby Road.

It starts at 1.30pm Sunday, September 14, and there is no need to book. Just turn up.

Emma Bladen

Flamin’ Galahs by Curtis Hylton at the Churchill Avenue carpark.

TOP: Shenton College’s state debating champions Chloe O’Donoghue, Alex Fine, Michael Hart and Isabella Baldwin. ABOVE: Shenton hockey players after winning 2-1 against Como Senior High School in the David Bell Cup.

IN SCALE. RICH IN CHARACTER

Perched high on one of Cottesloe’s most elevated positions, this rare family estate offers sweeping ocean views, grand proportions, and timeless character. A true lifestyle sanctuary with leafy gardens, multiple living spaces, and an exceptional coastal location. Your children will love you!

Contact Chris Shellabear for inspection times.

www.shellabears.com.au

European charm meets modern coastal living in this elegant three-bedroom Cottesloe residence, with been waiting for.

Contact Chris Shellabear today to arrange a viewing!

‘Clarendon Hill’ – Elevated Cottesloe Estate

New Coastal Living – Green Title Home

A rare opportunity to secure a brand-new Green Title, 4-bedroom family home in the heart of Cottesloe. Thoughtfully designed for modern coastal living, this exclusive development combines space, style and lifestyle – an unmissable offering for families wanting to call Cottesloe home. A modern approach to “Mews” style living.

Learn how to make an impact on a WA charity

All are invited to hear how Impact100 WA grants have made a vital difference to WA charities at an evening in Dalkeith on Thursday, September 18.

Impact 100 WA is a non-profit community organisation whose members each give $1100 in a year, and vote collectively to decide which West Australian charities will receive a grant of $100,000.

ReNew program to help at-risk young people find work. Redgum Justice CEO Sarah Patterson will speak about how Impact100 helped to provide legal, financial, and advocacy services to vulnerable community members.

On the trail of the night parrot

Neil Hamilton will share stories from decades spent searching for night parrots when he is guest speaker at Night Chats this Tuesday, September 16.

The renowned ornithologist from Birdlife Australia will discuss how the night parrot – one of Australia’s rarest and most mysterious birds – is critically endangered.

It is believed there are fewer than 200 night parrots left in

Neil has spent more than 30 years working to understand and protect the birds.

Neil Hamilton will speak about his lifelong research into the critically endangered night parrot.

Night Chats is hosted by the Friends of Lake Claremont at Claremont Lawn Tennis Club, Shenton Place.

At the Impact in the Spotlight event on Thursday, previous grant recipients will speak about the impact the funding has made to their organisations and changed lives in WA.

Speakers will include Dismantle CEO Pat Ryan, who will outline how an Impact100 WA grant supported Dismantle’s

Doors open at 5.30pm for refreshments before the 6pm start. No bookings are required, but a gold coin donation is appreciated. Everyone is welcome.

Impact in the Spotlight will be at Dalkeith Nedlands Bowling Club, 55 Jutland Parade, Dalkeith, from 6 to 8pm. Entry is free but registrations are essential. There will be drinks for purchase at the licensed bar.

Register by going to trybooking.com and searching “Impact in the Spotlight 2025”. For more information about Impact100 WA email info@ impact100wa.org.au or go to impact100wa.org.au.

Take charge of those power bills

Find out how to use less power and reduce your energy bills at the Wembley Downs Probus Club meeting on Thursday, September 18.

The meeting’s guest speaker will be from the Energy Ahead government program, which offers “energy coaching” to Synergy residential customers and community groups.

Energy coaches advise how to cut energy use and costs with practical energy-saving tips.

The Probus Club will meet at Cambridge Bowling Club, 39 Chandler Avenue West, Floreat. All are welcome. Register at 9.30am for the 10am start. The $5 entry fee includes morning tea.   For more information or to register early contact Bob Bredemeyer on 0417 093 696 or Bredemeyer@gmail.com or phone Rod Cohen on 0481 361 415.

Get paid to exercise.

Deliverers needed

Contact Mary 0466 749 804

The rare night parrot.

Photo: Steve Murphy

Impact 100 WA donors and supporters pictured at the 2023 grants award dinner.

Cambridge Notice

PLC girls shine in sun safety

Year 8 students from Presbyterian Ladies College attended an education day in Cottesloe recently to learn about melanoma and the risks of tanning.

The class, at the Cancer Wellness Centre in Cottesloe, was part of a national series for schools by the Melanoma Institute of Australia (MIA).

The SunSafe education program is to inform teenagers of the risks of skin cancer and the importance of sun safety – and recruit them as ambassadors of sun-safe behaviours among family and friends.

At Cottesloe the PLC students were given speech and presentation coaching from WA author and youth coach Claire Eaton to help them cre-

ate a sun-safe pitch to deliver to other students.

MIA interim CEO Tim Regan said Australia had the highest melanoma rates in the world. One person is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes, and one person dies from the disease every six hours.

“The purpose of our SunSafe Student Ambassador Program is to instil sun-safe behaviours from a young age, and to empower students to spread this message far and wide,” he said.

PLC student Grace Collins said “I was surprised to learn that the UV is over three in Perth for 11 months of the year. When the UV is over three, it’s harmful to our skin and we need to be wearing sunscreen”.

PLC Principal Cate Begbie said “Our girls came away from the workshop with a really clear understanding of why melanoma is such a serious issue in Australia and the simple steps we can all take to protect ourselves”.

“What we love about this program is that it gives young people the tools and confidence to talk to each other about sun safety, which help build lasting habits,” she said.

“We’re proud to see our students stepping into these leadership roles and bringing the SunSafe message back to our school community.”

For more information about the SunSafe student program go to melanoma.org.au.

Hale boys have the write stuff

Aspiring writers at Hale School have been published in the school’s first anthology of original student writing, titled Precipice.

establish at Hale a culture of writing as an artform and discipline, and to offer students an opportunity to experience the publishing process.

joined the club to improve his technique.

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Town of Cambridge Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Independent Committee Members (up to three positions)

The Town of Cambridge has an Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee which oversees functions as prescribed by the Local Government Act 1995 (WA) (Act) and Local Government (Audit) Regulations 1996. The Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee comprises up to seven members, made up of four Elected Members and up to three independent committee members. Under the provisions of the Amendment Act2024, the committee is to appoint an independent presiding member to ensure a level of neutrality and impartial oversight in chairing these meetings. An independent presiding member must be a person who is not a council member of any local government or an employee of the local government. If a deputy presiding member is appointed, they must also be independent. External members are appointed for a period of two years, in line with the terms of office for Council.

Council is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified and/or experienced persons, for an appointment as an Independent Committee Member on the Town’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee, until October 2027.

Interested persons should possess qualifications and/or experience in financial management and internal control, business management, governance or similar. The Committee meets four times per year and the meetings are approximately 1-2 hour duration. Further information can be found under Career Opportunities on the Town’s website.

On 4 April 2025, the Salaries and Allowances Tribunal issued Local Government Chief Executive Officers and Elected Council Members Determination No 1 of 2025, which increased the maximum amount payable for independent committee members to $450 per meeting. At the June 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting, Council resolved to set the allowance for independent committee members at $450 per meeting, in line with the maximum determination set out by the Salaries and Allowances Tribunal. Expressions of Interest, detailing qualifications, knowledge, experience and skills should be forwarded by 5:00pm, Friday 10 October 2025 to:

Manager Governance and Legal Town of Cambridge PO Box 15

FLOREAT WA 6014

Enquiries may be made to Manager Governance and Legal, Travis Hossen on 9347 6000 or by email:mail@cambridge.wa.gov.au

LISA CLACK

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The collection includes poetry and prose by senior students who in their writing explored the themes of love, nature, the bonds of family and the power of resilience.

The school’s Creative Writing Society was founded last year through its Centre for Writing, which offers reading and writing programs to encourage greater literacy in boys.

The original Creative Writing Society members attended after-school workshops run by The Centre for Stories in Northbridge, and classes taught by Hale School English teacher Hayley Anderson.

Ms Anderson said she wanted to publish the book to

Cambridge Notice

More than 40 boys had attended the optional creative writing workshops and there were now 20 committed, regular club members.

Year 12 student Marcus Woo

“This experience has inspired me to write, not as a school task, not something forced, but as something personal, about me – what I love, inspire, what I truly believe in as a human,” he said.

“The pieces in this anthology are deeply personal, fiercely imaginative and beautifully

1 Bold Park Drive Floreat WA 6014 | 08 9347 6000 mail@cambridge.wa.gov.au www.cambridge.wa.gov.au

Have Your Say

Cambridge

INVITATION TO COMMENT DRAFT LOCAL PLANNING POLICY 1.3: DESIGN REVIEW PANEL

The Town of Cambridge is seeking public feedback on proposed amendments to draft Local Planning Policy 1.3: Design Review Panel to better align with the State Government’s updated Local Government Design Review Manual. The draft Policy outlines the scope, in addition to the role, responsibilities, and Terms of Reference for the Town’s Design Review Panel members including the Chair.

To view the draft Policy and to make a submission, please visit the Town’s ‘Have Your Say’ webpage at www.cambridge.wa.gov.au/Community/HaveYour-Say-Community-Consultation.

Submissions on the draft Policy must be lodged by 5:00pm Friday, 26 September 2025, via the submission form on the Town’s ‘Have Your Say’ webpage, by email to mail@cambridge.wa.gov. au, or in writing to PO Box 15, Floreat, WA 6014. For any enquiries or more information, please contact the Town’s Strategic Planning team via email to mail@cambridge.wa.gov.au, telephone (08) 9347 6000, or visit the Town of Cambridge Administration Centre at 1 Bold Park Drive, Floreat WA 6014, during business hours.

LISA CLACK CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST TOWN OF CAMBRIDGE DESIGN REVIEW PANEL

The Town of Cambridge is seeking Expressions of Interest from suitably qualified professionals to join as a member or as Chair, of its Design Review Panel for a two-year term. Professionals with experience in, but not limited to, architecture landscape architecture urban design, planning, heritage, and other related fields are encouraged to apply.

The Design Review Panel assists with providing independent and expert design advice on a range of proposals in accordance with its Terms of Reference and supporting draft Local Planning Policy 1.3: Design Review Panel. How to apply

To apply, please include your CV, cover letter and any supporting documentation, and submit a Nomination Form available on the Design Review Panel webpage at www.cambridge.wa.gov.au/ designreviewpanel. Nominations must be received by 5:00pm Friday, 26 September 2025.

For any enquiries or more information, please contact the Town’s Strategic Planning team via email to mail@cambridge.wa.gov.au, telephone (08) 9347 6000, or visit the Town of Cambridge Administration Centre at 1 Bold Park Drive, Floreat WA 6014, during business hours.

LISA CLACK CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Notice

Hale School’s aspiring writers include Marcus Woo, Rob Davison, Ando Salama, Patrick Bradley, Chenghan Lei, Henry Spencer, Oliver

Year 8 students from PLC at the Melanoma Institute of Australia’s education day in Cottesloe. Photo: Paul McGovern

Set across 1,099 hectares (2,715 acres) over three titles, Foggarthorpe presents an exceptional opportunity to secure one of the region’s most significant rural holdings, with extensive subdivision zoning.

Situated in Nunile, only 2kms from the township of Toodyay and within easy reach of Perth, “Foggarthorpe” combines productive farmland, extensive improvements and comfortable family living in a prime location.

The property offers a beautifully renovated 3-bed, 2-bath farmhouse that blends timeless country charm with modern comfort. A welcoming country kitchen and dining area flows into a formal lounge, complemented by a light-filled sunroom. Outdoor living is enhanced by a swimming pool - perfect for relaxing after a day on the land. Multiple dams, a creek and a main bore provides abundant water supply.

This is a rare chance to secure a landmark Avon Valley property. A true legacy holding ready for its next chapter.

INSPECTION BY PRIVATE APPOINTMENT

Exciting Hilltop Residence. Fully Renovated.

This beautifully renovated home in Mosman Park combines timeless charm with modern luxury. Set on a 647m² block, the home boasts a flexible and expansive floorplan.

Character features are thoughtfully retained and enhanced throughout, with polished jarrah floorboards and high ceilings. Additional highlights include reverse cycle air-conditioning, extensive storage and premium fixtures throughout. Outdoors, the home continues to impress with a custom-designed backyard ideal for year-round enjoyment. Features include a pool, an alfresco entertaining area with shaded zones, a built-in pizza oven and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Located just a short stroll from the scenic Swan River foreshore and close to some of Perth’s finest schools, shopping precincts , parks and transport links, this exceptional home delivers on lifestyle, location and liveability.

Home Open: Saturdays 10:45 – 11:30am

Spectacular Federation Mansion “Bouriah”

Positioned within one of Perth’s most prestigious enclaves, “Bouriah” is a magnificent residence originally constructed in 1913 and meticulously restored for contemporary family living. Set across an expansive landholding with a wide rear boundary. The attention to detail throughout the home is extraordinary. Double height skirting boards and hand crafted architraves run seamlessly through the home, while the original weighted sash windows allow natural light to pour in across polished timber floors. The immaculate stained glass front door makes an unforgettable first impression, setting the tone for the architectural detailing found throughout.

Homes of this scale and significance are increasingly rare. A once in a generation opportunity to secure a timeless architectural masterpiece, one that has been expertly adapted for modern living while retaining every ounce of its original charm. This is not simply a property - it is a legacy.

-A celebration of Queen Anne Design -3,179 sqm of land

-Glorious reception and living areas

Home Open: Saturdays 12 – 1pm

-Championship tennis court

-Superb pool house and cabana

-Walk down wine cellar

White diamond waxflower set to sparkle

It is officially spring and time to celebrate the floral displays in Kings Park with the annual Everlasting Festival.

This year the park also celebrates the 60th anniversary of its centrepiece, the WA Botanic Garden.

Acknowledging both the beautiful native floral displays and the signifi scientific research into native species and conservation practices, the WA Botanic Garden has launched a new waxfl species called White Diamond, to honour the diamond anniversary.

Kings Park senior plant breeder Digby Growns said White Diamond had been in development for almost eight years.

To celebrate its release, Kings Park commissioned Perth Hills artist Stacy Gardoll to create a painting of the new variety, which has an extralong flowering period with an abundance of large white flowers that will change to a dark pink.

Stacy, a former theatre designer, said she had always loved flowers and about 15 years ago decided that she preferred painting on canvas to painting on theatre sets. Although she lives in the

Kids learn to dial 000 for care

Students at City Beach Primary School are all set to know what to do in an emergency.

On September 1 the school’s 60 students from kindy through to Year 2 were paid a visit by Kura the Bear and Suzanne, ambassadors from St John Ambulance.

The visit was to teach the children what constitutes an emergency, and how to phone for help if one arises.

They were taught how to dial 000 and what to say to ask for help for someone who is sick or injured.

Deputy principal Alison Jenkins said the students enjoyed seeing inside an ambulance and the equipment that might be used to care for someone.

“The aim of the session was to

calm should they need to call for help or be transported in an ambulance,” Ms Jenkins said.

“It always good to see our students learning through hands-on experiences and engaging with the wider community.”

Kindergarten teacher Maria Martin said the students benefited from hearing about the role of the paramedic in the community.

The visit was in keeping with the classes’ “our community” study theme, she said.

City Beach Primary School is now accepting enrolments for 2026. Families are invited to find out more about the school by attending the open night on Wednesday October 22, from 4.30 to 6.30pm.

The school is at 3 Marapana

For the launch of White Diamond, she has produced a large colourful painting of the variety’s large white flowers, with 60 limited-edition prints. The painting’s image will also be used on silk scarves and some jewellery.

As part of the Everlasting Festival, Stacy and Digby will stage a Meet the Artist event at Aspects on September 17 at 11am, and Stacy will be painting in-store from 11am to 3pm on September 28.

Everlasting Kings Park Festival runs from September 12 to 29. For information on guided walks and talks go to www.bgpa.wa.gov.au/events.

– SARAH McNEILL

Perth Hills artist Stacy Gardoll, left, and her colourful painting of the new White Diamond waxflower.

City Beach Primary School students and teachers with the St John Ambulance ambassador during the visit.

For Sale

Please contact Agent. 471 Doodenanning Road, Greenhills

•Ducted air con, ceiling fans & slow combustion fire

•Unfinished 2nd ancillary dwelling with plumbing

•Huge powered shed with workshop & mezzanine

•Second shed with single roller door & kitchenette

•Three dams, bore, rain water tanks & winter creek

•3 large paddocks and four hot-wired paddocks

Inspection Times

Open by Appointment.

Scan the QR Code for more.

2360 Burma Road, Bailup

For Sale

Please contact Agent.

•Over 255 acres fully fenced with sub-division potential (STCA)

•Comfortable 3 bedroom and 1 bathroom 2 WCs main dwelling

•Separate one bedroom fully self contained studio with kitchenette

•Shed approx. 15m x 20m with concrete floor, power and shelving

•Machinery is to be included with the sale “What a bonus”

•Four dams (two spring-fed) and creek, water license attainable

Kerrie-lee Marrapodi 0415 472 838 kerrie-leem@theagency.com.au

Inspection Times

Open by Appointment.

Scan the QR Code for more.

Offers presented by 5pm 17/09/2025 (Unless sold prior) 2650m2 42

Pointe, Geographe FINAL CALL – ONLY TWO LOTS

exclusive setting, with commanding

of Perth.

yond your doorstep, enjoy a stylish local shopping precinct access to both public and private schooling options, and world-class foreshore entertainment and tourist amenities just 1

$875,000 each

1211m2

A rare opportunity exists to acquire one of the largest and last vacant blocks available on prestigious Yallingup Hill. Totaling 1211m2, this cleared, elevated lot offers a 10m height limit gaining picturesque views over main break and the adjoining National Park. An incredible blank canvas for your dream holiday escape or forever home, situated within walking distance to pristine Yallingup beach for endless summertime bliss and beautiful Caves House for social sundowners.

Potential views extend from Indicators to the South, over “ The Bubble” and “Mainbreak” to the West, with the most amazing sunsets that Yallingup is famous for.

$2,800,000 7 Wardanup Crescent , Yallingup

life is springing up

New season, new cygnets

Fluffy cygnets and ducklings are emerging at Herdsman Lake as the indigenous season of djilba heralds the start of a new breeding cycle.

You may spot them during a guided walk next Saturday, September 20, hosted by the Gould League and led by experts from BirdLife WA.

Walkers may see a family of swans, some coots or a pair of crested grebes performing their beautiful mating dance.

The walk will be 8 to 10am, starting with a short talk at the Herdsman Lake Discovery Centre.

The cost is $10. Binoculars will be provided for those who don’t have their own. Wear shoes suitable for the wetland.

To book go to gouldleague.com. au and click on Monthly Morning Birdwalk.

The Discovery Centre is ac-

Let’s go for Lego fun

Excitement is building ahead of a visit to Subiaco by the Lego Masters Season 2 winners.

Jackson Harvey and Alex Towler will be at Subiaco Library from 10am to noon this Saturday September 13 to promote their new book called A New World Rises: Tales of a Lego World.

The book includes stories by WA children’s author and science writer Cristy Burne, and the event will be hosted by Lego enthusiast and children’s author and illustrator James Foley.

Families are invited to bring a picnic rug to the theatre gardens near Bille Bob, the wooden giant, to ask Jackson and Alex questions about Lego, enjoy a light snack and play.

There will be giant Lego blocks, mini-figure painting and a scavenger hunt.

Mayor David McMullen encourages local residents to spend visit subiaco.wa.gov.au/events.

3,050ha (7,544 ac) with 26 dams and an enormous potable aquifer

Up to 1,200ha cropping & 1,100ha parkland cleared for up to 10,000 sheep or 1,000 cattle

2 story, 6 bed, 4 bath farmhouse with tennis court & 3 bed managers residence

26km new 1.85m high vermin proof boundary fence, sheds and yards for mixed farming

About one hour from Perth CBD, surrounded by state forest for privacy and biosecurity

Exceptional potential for irrigated agriculture, feed-lotting, horticulture, aquaculture

750ha of bushland with potential for carbon offsets and carbon projects

EOI closing 31 October 5pm WST - Unless sold prior. st

Mark Hay

0418 953 742

08 9225 7000

markh@markhay.com.au 28/118 Royal Street, East Perth

Talk about voluntary assisted dying

Voluntary assisted dying will be the topic of conversation at the Rotary Club of Western Endeavour’s meeting on Wednesday.

The West Leederville-based club’s guest speaker is described as a clinician and academic GP who is a qualified voluntary assisted dying practitioner.

A club representative said that although voluntary assisted dying had been legal in WA for four years, many people were unsure of what the process involved and what safeguards were in place.

The session is designed “to provide clarity, dispel myths, and create a supportive space for questions and discussion”.

Rotary Club of Western Endeavour member John Boxall said: “For many of us, end-of-life

care is something we’d like to understand better.

“Two of our members have recently seen the process in practice, and they feel strongly about encouraging open and compassionate conversations on this important topic.

“VAD is ultimately about offering dignity and choice.”

The meeting on Wednesday September 17 will be from 6.30 to 8.30pm at Leederville Sporting Club, 78 Cambridge Street, West Leederville.

The session is free but register by going to trybooking.com and searching “Understanding Voluntary Assisted Dying: Public Presentation”.

For more information about the Rotary Club of Western Endeavour go to rotarywesternendeavour. org.au.

New

at Herdsman Lake. Photo: Beth Walker

Jackson Harvey, left, and Alex Towler.

2/18 Toddy Place,

22

will host 168 bowlers for the St Ives competition.

Wembley welcomes women AFL Masters

Women’s footy is booming, and AFL Masters has opened its doors to women footy players at Wembley Vets Football Club.

AFL Masters is the competition for players aged 33 years and over, and women are invited to try it out at free clinics at Wembley Sports Park in September and October.

All women are welcome – whether they’ve never picked up an Aussie Rules football or haven’t played for decades.

Wembley Vets Football Club president Steven Chidzey said the clinics were about fun, fitness and friendship, not fierce competition.

“Masters footy is footy for kicks,” he said. “Don’t take it too seriously. Everyone has to go to work on Monday.”

Four introductory sessions will be run at Wembley Sports Park on Wednesday evenings in September and October. Sessions are 45 minutes and led by experienced coaches keen to share the joy of the game.

Players need only comfortable exercise gear and sneakers. No footy boots are required.

Matches are played fortnightly on Sundays across Perth, and social events – from post-training catch-ups to fundraisers –round out the season.

There are no ladders, no finals, and no pressure –just a chance to get active, stay healthy and be part of a supportive sporting community.

The clinics are designed to be gentle introductions to the game.

Participants will enjoy a kick, a jog, and plenty of laughs with new friends. The emphasis is on participation, not performance.

Steven said that if interest was strong, Wembley hoped to launch a Women’s Masters team in 2026, joining a growing WA competition.

For more information email Dan at contact@ wembleyvets.com.au.

Dive into water polo with the Dolphins

The Dolphins Water Polo Club in Claremont smashed it in the water last season with teams of all ages reaching the finals and three successful grand finalists.

Dolphins teams G Grade Men (Associates), Years 7 and 8 Girls (Dynamos), and Years 11 and 12 Boys (Dreadnaughts) were all grand final victors.

Next Friday, September 19, the Dolphins will hold a come-try day beginning at 4.30pm, followed by a sausage sizzle.

place for everyone in the pool, whether you’re aged six or 60.

No experience was needed for the come-try day. “Just bring your bathers, a towel, and a sense of adventure,” he said.

“We’re a family-friendly club focused on fun, development, and creating a lifelong love of the game.”

The club caters to all ages and skill levels – from children starting out in Dolphin Ball, to senior players competing in the State League.

resilience.

“It’s perfect for those who enjoy team sports and anyone looking for a fun, challenging way to stay active,” he said.

“It’s one of the best all-round sports for fitness, teamwork, and confidence.

“Whether you’re looking for a new sport for your child, a way to stay fit, or a social team to join, the Dolphins Water Polo Club has something for everyone.”

Subiaco Dalkeith Nedlands

Warm, sunny weather on Thursday September 4 saw 46 bowlers do battle in sets play. Andrew Foster, Brian Burton, Wendy O’Meehan and Tony Payne won 2 sets with a 9-shot margin. Second were Tod Allen, Jeff Irwin, David Mildenhall and Marilyn Macaulay 1 set +4; third Gordon Wilson, Brian Page and Andy McGlew 1 set +3. Other winners

On Tuesday last week the ladies played the home team at Innaloo. Betsy Tapley, Margaret McHugh, Nada Bonny and Anne Ormsby lost 1434, but Usha Nigam, Dot Leeson, Lesley Langley and Jeannine Millsteed won 25-12.

On Thursday September 4 Richard Keeves, Mick Canci and Glen Morey outplayed Paula Hatch, Ray Fells and Mike Hatch 19-5 and Mark Wilde, Haydn Lowe, David Allport

a challenge match against Mosman Park, and a great afternoon was had by all. Mosman Park won 100-83. The winning team was Renate Coote, Del Adams, John Booth and Ron Hassall. Second were Jeff Adams, Bob Kershaw, Dennis Mullenger and Aidan O’Sullivan.

The weather for the rest of the week cancelled competition bowls.

The AGM will be next Thursday, September 18, at 6.30pm. All members are encouraged to attend.

The club’s open day is Sunday September 21.

Renovating or repairing your home?

Each week, the POST lists tradespeople who provide every kind of household service. Readers tell us they’ve carried out major extensions and renovations just by using the POST Trades & Services directory near the back pages of every edition. To advertise, email robyn@postnewspapers.com.au

So support POST advertisersthey make your free local paper possible.

Meet players and coaches and get into the pool to give the game a go.

Club president Phil Scales said there was a

Phil said water polo is a dynamic mix of swimming, soccer and basketball, building cardiovascular endurance, coordination, strength, teamwork and

Players train at Claremont Aquatic Centre on Davies Road. For more information, or to register, visit dolphinswpc.com.au or phone 6185 8255.

Bag a bag of bargain clothes

There will be no item of clothing over $5 at a market of second-hand clothing this Sunday at Hollywood Subiaco Bowling Club.

And shoppers can bring any bag and fill it up for just $20.

A family is holding the market on September 14 to raise money for the Women’s Resource and Engagement Network charity, known as WREN.

Expressions of interest open:

WREN aims to provide a safe environment for women and children experiencing domestic violence by offering legal advice, financial counselling and other types of support.

Heather Cousey said: “Come and join us to support this worthy cause”. Hollywood Subiaco Bowling Club is at 42 Smyth Road, Nedlands. For more information about WREN visit wren.org.au.

If you are enthusiastic about shaping and influencing design, with a background in urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, planning, heritage and/or sustainability and environmental design – we invite you to nominate for the City of Stirling’s Design Review Panel.

The Design Review Panel membership will include suitably qualified professionals to act in a consultative capacity to the City, reviewing and providing independent, impartial, expert design advice on a variety of development proposals and strategic instruments. Submissions close at 5.00pm on Monday 15 September 2025.

For more details call the Design Review Panel Support Officer on (08) 9205 8310 or visit www.stirling.wa.gov.au/planning-and-building/design-review-panel

Enjoy a kick, a jog, and laughs with new friends with AFL Masters for women at Wembley Vets.

Want trusted news, data and insights on the WA business community? Scan the QR code and register for a free trial

Lester Prize draws three-year sponsorship

By Ella Loneragan

The Lester Prize pool and entry numbers now top the Archibald Prize after securing a $90,000 three-year Westpac sponsorship.

The total pool for the WA portraiture awards has grown to more than $130,000, against the Archibald’s $100,000.

The 2025 Lester awards are understood to have received 1120 submissions, while this year’s Archibalds totalled around 950.

Lester Prize executive director Shannon Yujnovich hoped the partnership with Westpac would encourage increased patronage of the arts.

“We’re delighted to establish this partnership with

Westpac to better support our talented Australian artists,” she said.

“Westpac’s patronage over the next three years will help us to build on the momentum of previous seasons, supporting our extended reach into regional WA through our touring exhibition and creative workshop programs, and strengthening our community engagement.”

Westpac commercial banking state general manager Suzanne Hullick said the arrangement reflected the bank’s dedication to support communities.

“Westpac are excited to support the Australian artistic community through our partnership with The Lester Prize,” she said.

“[It] is one of Australia’s most prestigious art prizes, and Westpac is proud to celebrate the talent of our artists and bring the arts to a wider audience in rural areas.”

Winners will be announced at WA Museum

Boola Bardip next Friday. Awards include the $50,000 Richard Lester prize for portraiture, $20,000 Toni Fini Foundation artist prize, $20,000 Minderoo Foundation spirit prize, $15,000 Baldock family people’s choice prize, $5000 Ashurst emerging artist prize, and the highly commended prize (valued up to $3000).

The 40 finalists were announced in July and include 17 returning artists.

Zorzi tangled in $10m divorce carve-up

By Nadia Budihardjo

Zorzi Builders, under liquidation, is tangled in a $10million contract dispute over a Dalkeith property that is part of a divorce settlement.

A recent Supreme Court judgment shows Mercedes Construction, formerly trading as Zorzi Builders, sued Cooah Investments and the registrar of titles.

Mercedes sought to extend a caveat over a property at Goldsmith Road owned by Cooah Investments, a company linked to Arise Developments founder Adam Lisle.

ASIC records show Mr Lisle as the director and secretary of Cooah, but the

company is solely owned by his wife Melissa Lisle.

Mercedes Group was placed in administration in March and in liquidation in June, with creditors voting for the entity to be wound up.

Upon administrators being appointed to Mercedes Group, Cooah claimed it had a significant claim against the builder and lodged a proof of debt of more than $9.8million, according to the court judgment.

The caveat over the Dalkeith property was set to lapse on April 22 but Mercedes Group sought an extension to Cooah’s objection.

Cooah claimed the caveat was causing prejudice to

its director, Mr Lisle.

In the recently delivered judgment, WA Supreme Court judge Matthew Howard ordered the caveat to continue until further order.

“That is especially so in the current circumstances where if the caveat is not maintained then Mr Lisle’s stated intention is to sell the property and use the balance of the sale proceeds to affect a divorce settlement and purchase another property,” he said in his judgment.

“That, in my judgment, may well leave the builder in a materially worse position than if it maintains the caveat.”

By Claire Tyrrell

Fremantle’s South Terrace Piazza has sold for $12.5million to a WA businesswoman living overseas, three years on from when it last changed hands.

PARC Developments, formerly Yolk Property Group, has sold 36 South Terrace to Bronwyn Owen.

Ms Owen was born in WA but lives in New York.

She is listed as the global head of investor relations and director of activist hedge fund TCI Fund Management.

Ms Owen intends to repurpose the building, which currently has several vacant tenancies.

The sale excluded the Timezone building, which is expected to list for sale separately. This explains the discrepancy between the $18.2million Yolk paid for the asset in 2022 and the recent sale price.

The property was listed in April this year, when PARC Developments pulled the pin on its plans to redevelop it.

Cushman & Wakefield’s Ben Younger, Nick Charlton and Zaahen Kahn handled the sales campaign for the Piazza.

“The Piazza showcases exceptional flexibility for future development,” Mr Younger said.

“Its scale and location allow for a wide range of adaptive reuses – from boutique hotel or hostel ac-

commodation to residential, retail, office, education or entertainment offerings.”

Ms Owen is looking to fully renovate the buildings into a community retail precinct, the agency confirmed. Mr Charlton said the property attracted strong interest.

“Fremantle’s revitalisation and the site’s strategic location made it a standout opportunity,” he said. The vendor previously explored several options to develop the site, including hotel, hostel, education, retail, residential and commercial uses.

RP data shows that Yolk Piazza 21 Pty Ltd bought the South Terrace property from Munroe Agencies in early 2022.

ASIC records show that Yolk Piazza 21 is jointly owned by Pete Adams and CFC Group executive chair Philip Cardaci.

Advertising in the POST works.

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A selection of the finalists announced in July. Image: The Lester Prize

Adam Lisle

South Terrace Piazza has sold. Photo: Cushman & Wakefield

Relationship chaos is not so funny

as funny.

In 2019, American filmmaker Michael Angelo Covino made a nugget of indie comedy gold, The Climb, which he co-wrote, co-produced and starred in with his real-life best friend Kyle Marvin.

The duo return with Splitsville, a glossier, starpowered retread of similar friendship-relationship themes that also turns out to be a little more laboured.

Drawing from the same playbook of balletic fight choreography, physical comedy and deep male dysfunction, it’s not nearly

It is an intermittently amusing farce that is visually well-composed, often sharply observed, and never less than goodnatured fun – but never climbs to the darkly comic peak of its predecessor.

Marvin plays Carey, a besotted newlywed whose wife Ashley (Adria Arjona) admits she’s been unfaithful and asks for a divorce.

They’re en route from New York City to the Hamptons home of Carey’s best friend Paul (Covino) and his wife Julie (Dakota Johnson), and when Carey eventually arrives on foot, he’s devastated.

Later, over cosy glasses of wine, he’s flabbergasted

to discover Paul and Julie have an open relationship that values spiritual and emotional connection over monogamy.

It isn’t long before Carey sleeps with Julie, and Paul hits the roof. And when he asks her why, Julie doesn’t hold back: “Because he’s

From the old to the new

AROUND THE galleries hanging

St Hilda’s OSA art exhibition offers 33 WA artists the opportunity to curate their own 4sqm space.

Not confined to artists who were once students, the Old Scholars Association has invited “outstanding artists who inspire our students and the community”.

They include Rachel Coad, recently named a finalist in this year’s Archibald Prize and exhibiting at St Hilda’s for the first time; old scholars Fremantle ceramicist Pippin Drysdale and land-

scape artist Cy Rocchi, along with landscape painters Karina Buckingham, Narelle Higson and Jacinda Bayne, surrealist Andrew Baines, ceramicist Rebekah Clarke and seascape artist Rob Ferguson. The exhibition opens at 6pm on Thursday with a ticketed cocktail party and runs daily from Friday to Sunday in St Hilda’s Joy Shepherd Performing Arts Centre, Bay View Terrace, Mosman Park.

A percentage of sales goes towards school projects, and the OSA has introduced a new initiative in investing in scholarships for old scholars to pursue their chosen careers.

Tom Andrews, 21, has a rare mitochondrial disease characterised by degeneration of the central nervous system. Although he has difficulty articulating words and coordinating voluntary movements, he expresses himself vividly through his abstract art.

For the past year he

has been taking classes at Creative Pair Studio at 183 Rokeby Road in Subiaco. The studio runs daily painting classes and evening painting events, but for the first time owner Katherine Lumb has offered the space as a gallery for Tom’s work.

“Tom has created a large body of work and he’s very talented so we wanted to celebrate him,” she said.

For his first solo exhibition, Tom has created about 40 works in mixed media using acrylic, oil pastels, paint pens and collage.

The Abstract World of Tom Andrews opens next Friday at 5pm and is on show daily until September 26.

kind and trustworthy and he has a bigger dick than you.”

love triangle exploring the minefield of modern relationships and male friendships. It delivers some superb moments while also straining to keep the momentum.  Carey and Covino are both appealing enough knuckleheads, but the mystery is why Arjona’s Ashley or Johnson’s Julie chose either of them in the first place (dick size notwithstanding).

In charting the ups and downs of male friendships through the lens of wounded, open-hearted masculinity, The Climb had the duo as talents to watch. Splitsville coasts

■ Rachel Coad, a finalist in the Archibald’s, is showing for the first time at St Hilda’s. Photo: Frances Andrijich

■ Tom Andrews has created a large body of abstract art at Subiaco’s Creative Pair Studio.

■ Co-directors and actors Micheal Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin, with Adria Arjona and Dakota Johnson, chart the ups and downs of male friendship and open relationships.

Robyn Varpins, Goddess of Music, 7 x 34 x 28 cm, clay, underglaze, oil and acrylic paint. Julie Podstolski,

Romeo

“Don’t try to make it ‘new’, just be present in the moment,” director Peter Evans advised Ryan Hodson in taking on one of the most famous roles in theatre, Romeo.

“In over 420 years Romeo and Juliet has been done so many times there is no right way to do it,” Ryan said of Shakespeare’s immortal tale of starcrossed lovers.

“But Peter impressed on us the need to make it real and honest and not try to reinvent it.”

Four centuries of versions and spin-offs have included Prokofiev’s classical music, numerous ballets, at least 24 operas,

musicals such as West Side Story, dozens of films, most notably Baz Luhrmann’s 1996 version, sculptures, paintings and pop songs.

Peter says his young cast brings a millennial approach to the play while still playing the Elizabethan tropes of sword-fights, poison, potions and masked balls.

Ryan is joined by Madeline Li as Juliet, the teenage girl Romeo falls instantly in love with at a

has an intimate knowledge of both the role and the play, having toured with Bell Shakespeare’s schools touring ensemble, The Players. A trio of actors toured the country a couple of years ago, playing all the roles between them to share with students.

“The school show was hard and fast,” Ryan said. “It ran for 55 minutes and I narrated it and played several roles including Romeo and the Nurse, so to sit now with the character Romeo and really allow myself to get into his head

Brittany Santariga and James Thomasson respectively.

“Gender is not as important as the spirit of the actors and how they meet the characters,” Peter said.

Ryan, Britt and James have been friends for years.

“We were already a tight friendship group, so the dynamic on stage is comfortable, safe and very real,” Ryan said. “We’re not trying to do a new take on the role of Mercutio, and we don’t change the pronouns, it is just that Britt brings to it a fresh and energetic approach.”

the witty and mercurial Mercutio and the peacekeeping Benvolio, played

Bell Shakespeare is on a national tour and brings Romeo and Juliet to Perth’s State Theatre from September 16 to 20.

Japanese culture at the heart

SARAH McNEILL

Raewyn Hill, artistic director of contemporary dance company Co3, has been deeply influenced by Japanese culture and movement, and says studying under renowned Japanese dancer Yoshito Ohno “uncracked something in me”.

On his advice she visited a traditional tea-house in Japan and has used the experience of the ceremonial and minutely detailed ritual to inspire an anniversary production for the company.

Co3 celebrates its 10th anniversary this year and collaborates with Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO) celebrating its 50th, in a dance

Another Japanese connection is collaboration with Japanese-born Australian fashion designer Akira Isogawa, who has designed costumes for this

“Working with Akira was like stepping into poetry,” Raewyn said. “We spoke about layering, recycling, reimagining, and the traces tumes that felt lived-in and delicate. He was already ts he’d created years ago and I felt he was already crafting cos-

Perth’s Liberty Theatre added to Raewyn’s belief in the Japanese philosophy encapsulated in the Latin phrase tabula rasa which slate”.

“The Liberty is a building that was abandoned and stripped back, but full of deep history. It allows us to transform it with new

ideas,” Raewyn said.

In the Shadow of Time features five dancers on a square stage – the size of a Japanese tea-house – which is pushed around symbolising moving through life’s challenges. As the dancers capture the exchange of energy, ebb and flow of human connection, ACO performs works by Arvo Part, Philip Glass and Caroline Shaw.

Co3 premieres In the Shadow of Time at Liberty Theatre, 81 Barrack Street, from Wednesday to Saturday, September 17 to 20, before touring Down South.

“Touring with a live orchestra is a rare and profound achievement, one I’m so proud of realising,” Raewyn said.

E X P O 2 0 2 5

SARAH McNEILL

■ Raewyn Hill is proud to celebrate Co3’s 10th anniversary.

Disability woven into murder investigation

Local author Karen Herbert is becoming known for incorporating disability into her crime thrillers.

She and her friend and mentor Jo Giles have sat over many coffees discussing the representation of disability as a stereotype in literature and speculating on how disability could help or hinder an investigation into crime.

Karen has lived with Meniere’s disease since she was 21. The inner ear disorder causes tinnitus, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and

By Karen Herbert

Published by Fremantle Press

violent attacks of vertigo.

Her twins were born prematurely, and one has cerebral palsy, and her friend Jo has cystic fibrosis, so Karen is no stranger to living with disease.

In her first novel, The River Mouth (2021), murder victim Darren suffered from alcohol foetal syndrome.

In her second novel, Vertigo (2023), the protagonist Frances, who inadvertently becomes a sleuth trying to solve the disappearance of her colleague Eric, suffers from Meniere’s.

“I wanted to see how a character would handle investigating a suspected

with a chronic illness, so Meniere’s disease seemed like an obvious place to start,” Karen said at the time of Vertigo’s release. In The Ghost Walk,

A book of salty tales

A group of emerging writers, alumni from ECU’s Creative Writing course, travelled to the small wheatbelt town of Dumbleyung last November.

They were guided by author, editor and ECU professor Donna Mazza.

“Our plan was to foster a response in our writing about a place that rarely shows up in contemporary literature,” she said. The writers were deeply influenced by the people of Dumbleyung, the traditional Wuddi stories and the hypersaline salt lake.

getting CF ‘right’ in this book, and I kept going back to Jo to check about living with the disease and a lung transplant, but she reminded me that everyone who lives with a disease or chronic illness experiences it differently.

“I already knew that members of the Meniere’s community experience it differently. Some of us work, some of us can’t, some struggle with the activities of daily life, and some have climbed mountains.

“It turns out that everyone who has CF is also different. I felt quite stupid when Jo reminded me of this.”

Ruby Rose lives with cystic fibrosis and is compelled to solve the murder of the lung surgeon who once saved her life and became her secret lover.

“I was worried about

“We walked across the lake’s salt-crusted surface and heard the wind whisper through dry wheat fields,” Donna said.

“It was harrowing and unforgettable.”

Follow the Salt is a collection of short stories written by the 12 authors and edited by Donna, which emerged from this unusual writers’ retreat.

Local farmer Rodney Frost inspired the title of the collection of unsettling

Follow the

Published by Night Parrot Press $30

and gothic tales.

“Rodney was once a traditional farmer and is now one of very few biodynamic farmers in the area,” Donna said. “He told the writers ‘If you want a story, follow the salt’.

“In a roundabout way we have all done this.”

Published by Nedlandsbased Night Parrot Press, Follow the Salt will have a public launch at the State Library this Saturday, September 13 at 2pm.

Exhibition “Impressions”

LAST WEEK! at The Grove Library

EXHIBITION DATES

September 7th to 20th (inclusive)

Hours: Mon-Thur 9am to 6pm, Fri 9am to 5pm, Sat 10am to 4pm and Sun 12pm to 4pm VENUE 1 Leake Street Peppermint Grove FREE ENTRY

the hospital that Ruby is admitted to with a sudden fever.

As the crime scene investigation begins beneath her hospital window, Ruby starts to gather her own clues about her lover’s last movements. But with each new discovery, she is forced to question whether she really knew Gabriel Beaufort at all.

Exhibiting Artists: Sue Cross • Ian Bauert • Tim Sewell • Miles Humphreys • George Schaeffer • Brian Carew-Hopkins plus a selection of works from Claremont Men’s Shed Art Group

In her novel, set in reimagined locations around UWA and local hospitals, the body of Dr Beaufort is found in the wetlands next to

In exploring how a disability could help or hinder the search for a killer, Ruby Rose Gillespie is a unique protagonist – smart and determined, who loves to dig down into rabbit holes as she gathers clues into her lover’s final movements, but needs plenty of sleep, has to be careful about what she eats, and has to take her meds.

“I couldn’t push her too far,” Karen said.

My mother and stepfather were extremely destructive, emotionally and physically abusive, so I came west to go to uni. I was diagnosed with PTSD, and have been estranged from them ever since.

In the years I’ve lived here they have never visited, and my younger brother, who I took care of when growing up, did not come to my wedding. He and his wife called me days before my first child was born.

I thought they were calling to congratulate us, as I had flown over east when they had their first child, and helped them financially to buy a house. But their call was stressful and rude.

The next day I was sent the ugliest, most abusive email from my sister-in-law. I thought my brother and I were survivors who would stick together. I always thought of him with love. What should I do?

Bonnie

Karen, who is president of the Swanbourne-based Fellowship of Australian Writers WA, said she wrote the story as a thriller first before going back to research it. But it is her meticulous research into living with a disability, into lung transplants and into life in and around a hospital that informs this dark, brooding murder mystery.

answers wayneandtamara.com

Bonnie, poker players say poker is not a card game; it is a people game played with cards. With your brother, you are playing as if you have no knowledge of his hand. In fact, you have perfect knowledge. Give and he will take; defend yourself and he will abuse you. His strategy is no more complicated than that.

You were dealt an unplayable hand, an abusive stepfather, an uncaring mother, and a favoured brother. By treating your brother to money, time and attention, you are strengthening his bad behaviour. Being estranged from your family is nothing to be ashamed of. It is what you must do to protect your children, your husband, and yourself.

Wayne & Tamara • Need some advice? Write to writedirectanswers@gmail.com

The Ghost Walk

McNEILL

authorKaren

■ Karen Herbert loves to explore how crime-solving and disability go together.

Salt Short Fiction edited by Donna Mazza

SARAH McNEILL

■ Follow the salt … Photographer Sarah Mills followed the writers as they discovered Dumbleyung and its salt lake.

Ian Bauert

Brian Carew-Hopkins

Tim Sewell

George Schaeffer

Sue CrossMiles Humphreys

Death Row opera inside Fremantle Prison

SARAH McNEILL

“Opera works best when it is darkly grim and tragic,” said director Adam Mitchell.

And though Dead Man Walking is a grim tale of a man on Death Row, Adam also declared it “a bloody good story”.

The opera was composed by American Jake Heggie in 2000, with a libretto by the esteemed playwright Terrence McNally. It is based on Sister Helen Prejean’s best-selling 1993 memoir about becoming the spiritual adviser for

brutal murderer Joseph de Rocher, while he was awaiting execution. It also inspired the 1995 movie starring Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn.

“We are familiar with stories about people innocent of a crime, or following the journey of a victim of crime, but Dead Man Walking is so fascinating because we know de Rocher did it,” Adam said.

“So it becomes about those intense relationships with his family and with the nun who urges him to confess, but regardless promises to be with him to

the end.

“And though it is set in America, the shadow of our own justice system and themes of truth, forgiveness and redemption are universal.”

This time, the opera is being staged within the confines of Fremantle Prison, close to the prison’s execution chamber where 44 people were hanged.

Soprano Harriet Marshall, founder of Freeze Frame, sings the role of Sister Helen Prejean; and Lachlan Higgins, who has just

This wine is high on a hill

lated nature-covered hillside just outside of Denmark in the Great Southern. And its success is most notable in an unending list of WA’s winery stories.

Forest Hill’s riesling and cabernet sauvignon are already among the finest in the country, but the $45 2024 pinot noir (18.6 points), the $70 2023 Block 9 shiraz (18.7 points) and the $60 2024 Block 8 chardonnay are among the country’s best value for money. This is a winery that produces just 12000 cases, or 0.01% of Australia’s annual wine production.

The James Halliday Wine Companion ranks Australia’s

wine varieties by points. In the 14 annual editions since it was released, Forest Hill has the third highest ranking with four wines rated first or equal fi among in the country’s finest rieslings.

Forest Hill’s most famous riesling – a miniscule 70 to 100 dozen - is their fine but powerful Block 1, at $55. And, take note, 2025 Block 1 will not be released until next year.

The just-released and more reasonably priced Block 2 riesling, from this year’s great growing season, is their finest yet under this label. It is an evolving style and despite a touch of lees contact and a hint of oak influence for complexity, it remains racy, vibrant, long

2020 Golden Mile Cabernet Sauvignon

and alive.

Delicious now and will live until 2050 with ease. 18.8 points and $39, a rare bargain at this price. In the last two James Halliday Cabernet Sauvignon Challenges, tiny Forest Hill has received the trophy twice for champion wine.

These were the 2022 and 2023 Block 5 cabernet sauvignons. They triumphed in masked tastings against 345 wines in 2022 and 250 wines in 2023.

It is long, soft, fresh and fragrant and has a succulent and generous, if light, midpalate that is restrained and lightly structured by fine and approachable tannins.

It is both alluring and delicious.

It has enormous subtle length and a lingering, quietly cleansing and gently dissipating finish. The finish and aftertaste are hard to match. In a word, brilliant. $80, if you can find it.

Gold Decanter World Wine Awards 2024

2023 Golden Mile Chardonnay

Gold Decanter World Wine Awards 2025

2020 Perseverance Cabernet Merlot

96 Points Ray Jordan WA Wine Review

Rocher. The cast of 20

The 2023 Block 5 vintage is a standout.

ON THE g rapev grapevine ine

By john jens

■ Winemakers Guy Lyons and Liam Carmody inspect the Forest Hill vines.

■ Harriet Marshall plays Sister Helen Prejean struggling with her faith as she supports a murderer.

■ around the old brick fireplace in the cooler months.

Place of love, and relaxation

Premalaya, which means Place of Love in Hindi, is a sanctuary in Yallingup with a yoga studio, ice baths, two saunas and plenty of room to spread out.

Hayley and Scott Lane bought the beautiful bush block in 2014 when there was just a shack and a shed on the 2.02ha site near the Yallingup Steiner School.

After a lot of careful planning and hard work, Premalaya opened its doors to guests in 2017.

and other nature lovers will enjoy the tranquility of this 3ha property with marri and jarrah trees. Sharon Howard 0422 453 488.

3 Mannitj Place

“We have hosted thousands of people – international tourists, retreat groups, men’s mental health days, corporate

Hayley, originally from the UK, said her expertise in yoga, ayurveda and of all kinds can gather and enjoy themselves,” Hayley said.

studio, a 4x2 family home/ management quarters, a large hot-house, two therapy rooms and extensive wellness facilities.”

On the list of features are a traditional woodfired sauna for 32 people,

tion and versatility were hard to beat.

“Smiths Beach, Canal Rocks and Margaret River wineries are all on the doorstep,” Mr James said.

“This property can do it all, whether you’re family and guests.”

Griff Morris from Solar Dwellings designed this passive-solar house in the Witchcliffe Ecovillage. Rebekah Vos-Jamieson 0428 175 643.

POST Property writer Julie

■ It was like speed-dating when this Dalkeith property sold in a 30-minute home open.

Snapped up after just half an hour

First in, best dressed, was how an agent marketed a Dalkeith property that sold for $3.512million after one home open that lasted 30 minutes. The five-bedroom and two-bathroom home at 26 Sutcliffe Street is on an 842sq.m site opposite the Carmelite convent. Agent Vangelis Katsaitis, of Excellence Property Specialists, said about 90 people attended the home open on August 23. The sellers paid a touch over $2.7million for it in April 2023. “They bought it at a great price after it was passed in at auction,” Mr Katsaitis said. They did nothing to the house but rented it out for an advertised price of $2200 a week. “It was an excellent result,” Mr Katsaitis said, “given that they bought it for $750,000 under the median price for Dalkeith at the time and now they have sold it for $254,000 above the current median house price.”

New York, New York, in glorious colour

There is one in every town – a house decorated in bold colours that sits cheerfully among its sober neighbours like a bright bouquet. In New York, it is a candy-coloured residence priced at $4.5million A few blocks from the East River and Roosevelt Island, the sixbedroom and four-bathroom house has some weird and wonderful furnishings which can be yours for the right price. Teddybears line a red-carpeted staircase that leads to the top floor decorated in green and turquoise. A daring red kitchen with retro appliances and multicoloured lights is a far cry from

the neutral designs we see in the western suburbs. There is so much space three families could share the property in 36th Avenue, Queens For more details, contact nahidm@ nestseekers.com.

‘Wellness suite’ at City Beach

Saunas are all the rage right now, especially among the wealthy who want to be healthy. Two of my neighbours recently installed saunas in their homes, and chances are there are some in your neighbourhood. A City Beach house for sale has a sauna as part of its “wellness suite”. The five-bedroom and five-bathroom mansion at 26 Windarra Drive also has a gym and a pool. The 1361sq.m property set a record for the beachside suburb when it sold for $7.6million in 2021. Now the palatial property with ocean views is back on the market, and it comes up in the $9million to $10million range on realestate. com. Property records show the sprawling mansion is owned by Brian and Carol Woods Bradley Woods, the high-profi Australian Hotels Association WA shelled out

■ What will it go for this time? This palatial property at 26 Windarra Drive, City Beach, set a record in 2021 when it changed hands for $7.6million.

in 2021. Agents Vivien Yap and Emma Milner of Ray White Dalkeith Claremont have the listing.

Mos Park block goes for $7.75m Engineer and investor Fiona Paterson has added a fourth property to her portfolio with the acquisition of 4 Riverview Place, Mosman Park, for $7.75million It comes with council-approved

property in Mosman Park’s exclusive

few that offered both the height and depth of stunning river views plus its own foreshore access”. Justin Davies of Space Real Estate brokered the deal for the 918sq.m property.

Wild times come to an end

Three generations of the Wild family have grown in a Cottesloe house which is on the market for the first time since it was built in the 1920s. The 865sq.m property at 116 Eric

Street will appeal to developers because it has two street frontages, rear lane access and R60 zoning. Subject to planning approval, four dwellings could be built on the site at the Stirling Highway end of the suburb. Agent Daryl Cook of Abode Real Estate expects there will be plenty of competition for the property on the corner of Mann Street. The five-bedroom and onebathroom property is due to be auctioned on October 11 at 11am. Phone 0400 209 894.

■ It has taken a century for this Cottesloe house, on on an 865sq.m site with

Fierce battle in Hardy Road

AUCTION results

“Intense, crazy and nuts” is how agent Thomas Wedge described last Saturday’s auction of a Nedlands house that attracted competition from nine bidders.

Bidding opened at $1.7million for the six-bedroom and three-bathroom house at 7 Hardy Road.

firm

Forbes and Fitzhardinge designed the house for the sellers, who had owned it since it was built in 1979.

“After 37 bids, the final two contenders battled it out with $10,000 increments until a young couple bought it for $2.49million,” Mr Wedge, of Ray White Dalkeith Claremont, said.

“It was one of the busiest auctions I have had, with more than 100 people turning up on the day.”

Mr Wedge said it was

rare to find – let alone buy – a six-bedroom house in the hospital precinct for around $2.5million.

A shortage of properties for sale also fueled the competition for the 668sq.m property, next door to a group of three townhouses.

The original design with face-brick walls, raked ceilings and solid timber cabinets was nostalgic for some bidders, including one of the buyers who came from Peru.

“It was like the home she grew up in,” Mr Wedge said.

“They plan to keep it like a 1970s time capsule

After a swim at the beach, have a dip in the mosaic-tiled pool.

Before-and-after photos tell the story of this two-storey house, which has been thoughtfully renovated by the sellers.

Out went the dated bricks on the exterior, glossy black kitchen bench-

but with a few improvements.”

In other results:

Three bidders “duked it out” for a Swanbourne house, according to agent Tim Caporn of Ray White Cottesloe Mosman Park.

A south-of-the-river couple put in the winning bid of $2.56millon for 6B Myera Street “They wanted to be in a good school zone and near the beach,” Mr Caporn said.

The location in a culde-sac and near the walking trails around Lake Claremont also appealed to the couple with two

children.

The two-storey home with five bedrooms and two bathrooms is on a 607sq.m site.

If you are looking for

some auction action this weekend, head to 28

11.30am on Saturday, September 13.

■ The closed-in kitchen from 2018, right, was replaced with a more contemporary design that flows better, above.

Green from almost every room

tops and beige tiles, and in went rendered walls, a new kitchen and oak floorboards.

“Not much remains of the original home except the bricks and roof tiles,” one of the owners said. “We renovated on the basis of our taste rather than to sell.”

The wide verges and norfolk island pine trees attracted them to the house in 2018. It looked a little

dated but they appreciated its “good bones”.

“We knew we could turn it into an amazing home for our young family,” she said. And they did.

“It is a very easy and secure house to live in; we love living behind the gate – it is perfect for the beachside lifestyle,” she said.

The gardens, designed by landscape architect Tristan Peirce, are a high-

light.

“It was very important to us that we could see green from almost every room in the house,” she said.

They added a pool with a “naked” freshwater system that is free of high salt levels and chlorine.

The top-to-bottom renovation included some hidden features which most people would miss at home opens.

“Because we were

building for ourselves, we came up with some clever ‘tricks’ that we really love, like raising the washer and dryer to waist level and installing clothes baskets underneath,” she said.

“We have secret drawers to hide household clutter and have pop-up power points in the kitchen bench that retract when not in use.”

The main bedroom is on the ground floor, making it ideal for those who want to age in place.

Parry Street, Claremont, which is due to be auctioned at

■ A young couple beat two other bidders to secure 6B Myera Street, Swanbourne, for $2.56million.

■ Auctioneer Patrick Derrig, right in main photo, had to juggle nine bidders at the lively auction of 7 Hardy Road, Nedlands, above.

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Welcome for fairies, not ferries

• From page 5

based in Matilda Bay have objected to the location for the ferry terminal, which they say will put water users at risk.

Most say JoJo’s on the Nedlands foreshore is the best spot.

In a social media post last month former Nedlands MP turned MLC Katrina Stratton dismissed local and community objections.

“Last term I sent a public transport survey to every household,” she said.

“We had hundreds of replies with over 90% support for the ferry at Matilda Bay.

“Now we see organised voices and voices that get amplified by local media.”

On its own website the Department of Biodiveristy,

Conservation and Attractions describes Matilda Bay as “a pretty spot to relax and chill with family and friends”.

It says: “The river is sheltered, calm and perfect for a cooling swim in summer or a paddle on your kayak. Alternatively, just sit under a shady tree and watch the boats go by.

“The Swan River is home to about 20 dolphins which can sometimes be seen from the shore.

“There are a variety of water birds including pelicans, swans, ducks, terns, herons and cormorants.

The department recommends the bay as a location for birdwatching, boating, canoeing, kayaking, cycling, fishing, picnicking, snorkelling and swimming.

L-plater stands for public office

• From page 5

He and his young family have lived in Wembley for nearly 10 years, and he has volunteered at local sports clubs and on the board of Wembley Primary School.

Mr Scott has been a HR manager in local government for more than 16 years and said he had dedicated more than 40 years of his life to public service.

He became a police officer in 1982, was in the precursor to the Bikie Task Force, and also worked at Araluen Botanic Park.

He and his wife had raised their family in Cambridge for more than 20 years and had lived

Diversity rules in North Freo

• From page 5

She became a community advocate then, and wants to play the same role with the changes to the Fremantle traffic bridge.

A nurse, father, unionist and WA Socialist, Tyler Ray wants to turn around social inequalities and become a stronger voice for international changes.

“My daughter attends public school, and I’m committed to defending and improving high-quality public education for every child,” he said.

Rent caps, working ports and stronger opposition to Israel’s genocide in Gaza would be some of the revolutionary changes he wants to bring to the council.

Another WA Socialist, Nick Everett, will campaign on similar issues in East ward.

North Fremantle residents can meet their candidates in person at the North Freo Bowlo from 2 to 4pm this Sunday.

in Reserve, Cambridge and Alderbury streets. Councillor Gavin Foley, who was elected in 2023 and has added many colourful Irish phrases to council meetings, will not run. Meanwhile, two men were elected unopposed in the Coast ward: Xavier Carr, a returning councillor, and Brett Heil, who will serve on council for the first time.

Mr Heil is a volunteer with the Friends of Perry Lakes and the Dogs’ Refuge Home. He has a 35-year international career in banking. Councillor Jane Cutler will stand down from the Coast ward after serving one term in which she promoted community-led planning and tree canopy protection.

Guilty over Kings Park crash

• From page 11

Perth Magistrates Court on Wednesday morning.

“You are charged that … at the time of the incident you drove the vehicle in a manner that was … dangerous to the public,” Magistrate Andrew Hockton told Da Silva.

Asked for his plea, Da Silva paused for a moment.

“Guilty, your honour,” he said.

His bail was renewed until November, when a pre-sentencing hearing will be held in the District Court.

Da Silva was initially refused bail in the immediate aftermath of the crash after a police prosecutor said he was a flight risk because he was in Australia on a temporary visa.

He spent time in prison before being granted bail at a later hearing.

Da Silva refused to answer questions outside court.

Share warden jobs, say locals

• From page 3

arrangements would allow retirees, parents and even high school graduates and university students to step in for a few mornings a week when it suits their schedules.

“That’s how you deliver reliability – by being practical and flexible.”

Mr Zempilas crossed the road with students heading to Churchlands Senior High School this week, but he was not trained or qualified to stop traffic.

He said he regularly drove through school zones which had 40kmh limits and flashing lights, but no guard on duty.

“There’s still confusion when a crossing guard isn’t present,” he said.

“A commonsense step would be to line-mark zebra crossings at these sites and apply uniform rules across all school crossings – clear signals for drivers that create safer conditions for students.”

Almost four months ago the POST exposed a dangerous crossing in Peppermint Grove, where PLC principal

Cate Begbie dressed in bright colours to shepherd students over Stirling Highway (Wardens

flee traffic danger, POST May 24).

One warden was hit by a car at that crossing and another refused to man it as he felt he was risking his life every time he stepped onto the road.

After the report was published, two experienced wardens volunteered to take on the highway crossing.

Three Churchlands crossings nearest the primary and high schools have been unmanned for months.

Churchlands mother Zoe Deleuil said the unmanned crossings were a “fatality waiting to happen”.

“I saw a driver brake suddenly and almost hit two children, and this also happened earlier in the term,” she said.

“The current (warden) for the primary school went on leave two months ago and has not been replaced.

“The ones who worked at the Churchlands SHS bus stop crossing have both gone, and teenagers are now stepping onto that road with little warning before and after school as they rush for the bus.”

Students gather in groups on the footpath at the signed crossing and hope that cars will pause

Light torture adds to flange lube rage

• From page 9

lights would point downwards and would not shine into houses.

“The lights are very bright, they are absolutely not pointing downwards,” he said.

“They shine out brightly horizontally and they are clearly visible from all surrounding houses.

“This is a very disappointing failure on the part of the PTA to meet its previous assurances

$1m hero

• From page 1

seriously we have taken the issue of overcharging ratepayers.”

She said she took full responsibility for the error.

“Issuing incorrect rate notices is unacceptable and falls short of the standards our community rightly expects,” she said.

The Town applied to the State Administrative Tribunal to correct the error, after consultation with the Department of Local Government and getting legal advice.

The findings of the review and any recommended improvements will be shared with council and the community, Ms Clack said.

and it is yet another negative impact on the quality of life of Daglish residents living opposite the siding.”

Dozens of households in the area have already endured a barrage of screeching from the turnback since last December when the Ellenbrook Morley line opened.

Attempts to lubricate the rails has proved unsuccessful (Flange rage as lube runs dry, POST, August 9).

The residents group said the PTA needed to change the lighting design “to correct this terrible situation”.

The PTA seemed to agree with them.

“The PTA is working to address the light concerns impacting residents,” a spokesperson said.

“It is important the driver’s walkway remains well-lit for safety reasons, but this lighting should not impact nearby residential properties.”

and they can cross en masse. Others take a riskier approach and cross when a small gap appears in peak hour traffic.

Police have said that cars are not required to stop at unmanned crossings to let people cross the road.

Mr Zempilas said: “I will continue to press the government for answers, and I’ll also continue proactive discussions with school communities, the City of Stirling and the Town of Cambridge to give this issue the attention it deserves.”

He said he had spoken to local principals who said it was not the schools’ responsibility.

He had written to Police Minister Reece Whitby but was still waiting for a reply.

Mr Whitby was contacted for comment.

Dog attacks

• From page

“Primarily it is dog on dog, although we do have a number of dog on human cases.”

Councillor Garry Kosovich asked about a previous request for an off-lead dog park in Central ward.

Staff said a discussion was held about using Subiaco Primary School oval but no formal process went ahead.

“I believe it didn’t proceed any further following a dog attack that did occur on a small girl I believe outside Subiaco primary,” said technical services director James Hambly.

“[The] dog was tied to the fence but still attacked a girl. In light of that event the request was withdrawn or put on hold.”

The request for a fenced off-lead dog park area will be discussed at Tuesday’s council meeting.

Rocky Bay’s saviour

“In Cottesloe, we could have gone much higher, but we elected not to because we heard what the community wanted.

“We held 20 community consultation sessions and actively invited people we thought would be against the development, and in the end, they turned into our best advocates.”

For Kevina Stewart, a local for 25 years, the announcement has provided some fresh clarity over a process that has been shrouded in uncertainty.

“I do welcome it for the aged care services and feel some relief that we have something we can now equate the complex with,” she said.

“It’s good to know who the actual owner now is, and I’d say this company is trustworthy.

“So far, they seem to have taken the right steps in reaching out to the community.”

Should she eventually require aged care, she takes comfort in the fact that she would not have to leave her local community.

“I’m in my 70s now, so it’s nice to know when we get older and may need assisted living,

we can stay in our community, assuming we wouldn’t be the 900th person on that list to get in,” she said.

The Mosman Park Ratepayers Association has been among the most vocal critics of the developments at Rocky Bay.

“David Cox from Curtin Heritage Living approached us on Tuesday through an email with a welcome invitation for the association to engage with their people in the planning, so that’s welcome news,” an association spokesperson said.

“Our members will discuss this at our upcoming committee meeting next week.”

Further testing and planning will also need to address the site’s asbestos and cyanide contaminants to assuage those community concerns.

Mr Cox said they would continue to engage with the community at every step of the process.

Planning and a lot of consultation work are expected to begin in earnest by next year. Rocky Bay has been given 12 months to relocate its disability care services.

Hospice has exit clause

Health Services rejected that claim when questioned by the POST.

“The 15-year operating agreement provides a review opportunity to ensure a relevant and contemporary agreement is in place, and that it continues to reflect the aims of holistic, compassionate care for children and their families across WA,” a spokesperson said.

The Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation, which is building the hospice on former A-Class reserve in Allen Park, will control the site for 40 years if it exercises a renewal option in its contract.

“The management order is ‘Children’s Hospice and Public Parkland’ and the state government will not consider a change of use,” the spokesperson said.

The Friends of Allen Park

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said an unidentified third party had “blocked” release of the contract documents for more than a year.

The state government is in the process of excising about 3000sq.m of Allen Park around the hospice site to create a landscaped parkland, after years of disagreements with Nedlands council.

The Friends of Allen Park group lobbied Upper House MPs to vote to disallow the excision.

The Rocky Bay site is set to be redeveloped as an aged-care home.

Photo: Paul McGovern

3

• From page 3

Broadcast boycott is just not cricket

Colin Minson had a dream. But that dream is turning into a nightmare for WA cricket followers.

A passionate cricket and football lover who converted a modest playing career into a busy life as an agent for players and sporting goods, he was also a media all-rounder who provided score updates and stats for local radio stations.

But Minno was frustrated.

It was February 1991 and Mark Lavender had just made a stunning Sheffield Shield debut in Melbourne with a marvellous century against a Victorian team that included its own unknown debutant.

Shane Warne would soon loom large over cricket like few characters before or since, but Lavender’s feat went virtually unnoticed.

There was no live coverage of the match, non-existent radio and TV highlights and only a newspaper match report the following day to inform WA of Lavender’s sparkling effort.

Yet that innings at St Kilda would have a profound impact on coverage of the game in WA.

Minno, who was doing Saturday afternoon club updates, went to the WACA and using the remarkable powers of persuasion that he employed to set up businesses importing more cigarette lighters and sunglasses than any other West Australian persuaded them to allow him to broadcast Shield matches here.

So started three decades in which Minno, through community stations 6NR, Aboriginal Radio, Radio Fremantle – and since 2003 when he established his greatest achievement, SportFM – would travel the country to provide live broadcasts of WA cricket matches.

I had a first-hand view of much of that journey during countless memorable stints on air and dozens of trips across

the nation to every state and territory and even as far as New Zealand for a rare Shield match in Christchurch.

Minno would occasionally get his dander up – at recalcitrant equipment, bureaucratic impediments and coaches or team managers who would promise interviews with players during and after play only to renege at the last minute – but he always had the moral and financial backing of the WACA.

The cricket body saw considerable value in its essential product being broadcast to the public and made him a life member in 2020 in recognition of his contribution.

“He helped keep cricket on the map at a time we couldn’t get much coverage,” then WACA chair Terry Waldron said after Minno died of cancer in 2022.

“His coverage through SportFM was fantastic and helped elevate … cricket across the metropolitan area and in the country.”

Until now.

In a decision that would have Minno rolling in his grave, WA Cricket has decided that it is money wasted to spend $20,000

to help SportFM cover the game this summer.

The sponsorship – a mere 0.01% of the sum being spent to redevelop the WACA Ground –helps pay the airfares and hotel bills of the commentators who describe the action to thousands of locals eager to follow the fortunes of their WA heroes.

Opposition to SportFM’s coverage has been led by a couple of board members, who think perhaps that promoting cricket is not a core responsibility for a cricket association.

And staff have told sceptical listeners that the move would ensure “the best long-term outcomes for cricket in WA”.

“The recent decision to reallocate funds previously directed to SportFM was not made lightly,” WA Cricket emailed a querulous listener recently.

“With audience trends moving strongly towards digital platforms, and given that Cricket Australia already provides free streaming, continuing to fund a parallel service was no longer sustainable.”

Yet how do you stream live action while driving a car? Or gardening? Or have a room of

Teaching people to surf is a great passport to travel the world and earn some money at the same time.

The world of surf instruction and the number of surf schools have exploded in the past few decades, carving out legit pathways for everyday surfers to turn their passion into a profession.

Back in the day, surf coaching was just a local shaper giving a tip or an older mate yelling from the beach.

Now, it’s a professional career with courses, qualifi global travel.

From groms fresh out of school to salty old sea dogs with decades in the lineup, the Academy of Surfi has built a structured global system that makes becoming a surf instructor as easy and accessible as waxing your board before a session.

ASI director and co-founder Tania Nesbitt said the number of certified surfing instructors has more than doubled in the past 10 years.

“Twenty years ago the ASI set out to unify global standards in surf instruction and today that vision is a reality with instructors teaching across borders, backed by a reputation for excellence,” she said.

“We wanted a system where instructors could work

“[But] we understand this change may be disappointing for some of our members.” Disappointing? Try devastating, damaging and distressing.

WACA board elections are under way with 17 candidates putting up their hands for four

ing from a long-term partner might not be the most pressing issue in the election campaign, but it is sure to resonate deeply with a large portion of the old core membership.

anywhere in the world and be trusted for their professionalism and skill.

“We’ve gone from a niche certifier to the global benchmark and ASI instructors are now found on every major surf coast from Australia to South Africa and Portugal to China.

“Surfing is seasonal and when summer hits, surf schools face a shortage of instructors.

“With offices across five continents, ASI isn’t just international it’s the world leader in surf and paddle education.”

The ASI Level 1 Surf Instructor course is where most riders start.

It is focused on safety and giving people the experience of riding a surfboard, bodyboard or stand-up paddleboard.

You can chase the waves all over the word and make some money while experiencing new cultures and introducing newbies to the stoke of surfing.

If you are looking for a way to get out of the office, to work and travel the world at the same time, surfing coaching may be for you.

Many of them have a deeper interest in Sheffield Shield cricket than its more recent 20-over usurper and may well cast their board votes in response to a sympathetic hearing on the funding boycott being overturned.

• The columnist is on the SportFM board.

Walkley finishes long run

Cecil Walkley will run no more.

The subject of a Sporting POST column last year (Cecil stillonthelongrun, May 25, 2024) when he vowed to keep running until he reached 100, Cecil has fallen four years and a few steps short of the nish line.

A prominent doctor in Narembeen and Perth after an eventful stint in Uganda, Cecil’s most famous feat came in 1953 when he and several other Cambridge University medical students acted as pacemakers for their colleague Roger Bannister in his bid to become the first person to run a four-minute mile. But the wind at Oxford was too strong and Bannister cancelled the attempt, only to succeed a year later when Walkley had already departed for the next chapter in his life.

John townsend

THE Sporting

Assistant coach Geoff Marsh, right, spoke for much of WA in 2018 when he congratulated Colin Minson and SportFM on their coverage of WA cricket.

Colin Minson behind the microphone in his final interview in 2021.

Not a bad way to spend your days, teaching people to surf in a holiday resort like Phuket. Photo: Academy of Surfing Instructors surfing with cameron bedford-brown

Vivien

Vivien Yap

Dalkeith | Claremont

Use this shape to make a drawing. The best two entries will win.

How to enter:

Do your best Doodlebug drawing in the box above, and fill in the entry form. drawing and entry form and ask an adult to email it to sarah@postnewspapers.com.au with “Doodlebug” in the subject heading. Or drop your entry off to our offi Road, Shenton Park 6008, during normal business hours, or mail it to POST Kids at that address. For artists up to the age of 12. ENTRIES MUST ARRIVE BY NOON ON WEDNESDAY.

Name: .........................................................................Age ............................

Address ...........................................................................................................

Suburb ........................................................................Postcode ....................

Phone number: ..............................................................................................

What have you drawn?:

Week of w i l d ild

invention

Q. Why do giraffes have such long necks?

A. Because their feet smell!

Q. What kind of room doesn’t have windows or a door?

A. A mushroom!

Q. What’s the best time to go to the dentist?

A. Tooth hurty!

Q. What do you call a donkey with three legs?

A. A wonkey!

winners from so many inventive ideas, but these two stood out for their fun, colourful and clever drawings: Darcey McLeod, 8, from Cottesloe, with her photographer penguin who looks like he loves a good party; and Lily Hall, 9, from West Leederville, who hasn’t been partying at all but looks like it been studying hard in the library with a stack of books and a lot of homework.

Tongue Twister

Thanks to all the mums and dads who sent me such lovely messages about how much you all enjoy doing this. I love this job!

THE SEPTEMBER school holidays are fast approaching and with them comes the annual Awesome Festival for Bright Young Things. It’s time to start planning.

The festival brings colour, creativity and excitement to the Perth Cultural Centre from September 30 to October 4, with theatre, circus, music, workshops and lots free activities for children aged up to 12.

Ticketed shows include Barking Gecko’s new production of the play Reasons to Stay Inside. It was written a few years ago by Perth-born Katy Warner, now one of Australia’s rising young stars of the theatre. Although the play grew out of her own experiences

with anxiety, it is a fun, light-hearted look at friendship.

Pedro and Flora are BFFs (best friends forever). They do everything together, until one day Pedro begins building an enormous pillow fort and stays inside.

Pedro used to run, skateboard, play soccer, and go to school. Not anymore. Now he stays inside and he’s building a pillow fort that gets bigger every day. Flora will do whatever it takes to get her best friend to come outside.

Reasons to Stay is at the Studio Underground, State Theatre Centre, from September 30.

Another great show you should see at Studio Underground is The Quadrangle by Whiskey and Boots. In this unique verbatim performance, the actors bring to life real, unfiltered interviews with children, capturing their honest and often hilarious thoughts on life, the world and their dreams for the future. No embellishments, just pure, candid insight straight from the mouths of young minds just like yours.

Check out the Awesome Festival program at awesomearts.com/festival.

Q. Why was 6 afraid of 7?

A. Because 7, 8 (ate) 9!

Q. What would you name a camel with no humps?

A. Humphrey!

Vouchers will be mailed and valid for 4 weeks. These Doodlebug contestants have won.

Shop 4/531 Hay St

Subiaco 9381 3100

Maggie Cook, Eric Powell, Nina Belotti, Will Hilhorst-East, Lucy Bray, Alexander Mehravari, Sakura Morrison, Benjamin Hanes, Alexandra Fish, Deeana Tripathi.

Darcey McLeod (8)

ABOVE: The team at Whiskey and Boots will report exactly what young people think in The Quadrangle. RIGHT: What are the reasons to stay inside and build a pillow fort?

T EM BE R s ch oo lholida ys with anxiety itis a fun