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EDITORIAL
Chris Durrant | July Editor
Long-time Darlington resident Chris has been lending a hand with occasional Review editorials for at least 15 years. Now retired after a chequered career including financial management, pig farming, and school-teaching, Chris keeps himself occupied with a couple of Friends groups, the Robert Juniper Award for the Arts, and, most important, interaction with his family in WA and elsewhere. He has also written some gentle novels, set in the past.
The year 2026 has already seen some significant anniversaries, not least the centenary of that wonderful naturalist, David Attenborough. In these trying times it is comforting to reflect that a society that can produce Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and the Coffin-cheaters can also spawn the likes of Sir David, the all-round good eggs who inspire us by the work they do. And you may have been delighted, as I was, with the item on TV recently about the Esperance man, David Edwick, who shares Attenborough’s birthday as well as his first name. Like his more famous co-centenarian, Edwick is still active, driving his car, living by himself, and involved in community activities. He attributes his longevity to “just sheer luck!” As
Run for your life!
You may have read in the June Review about the King of the Mountain which, when you read this, will have just been run. That was a serious footrace up and down the Helena Valley but, it turns out, there are many other ways in our neighbourhood in which folk of widely varying fitness and ability can avail themselves of the benefits of running. And what are these benefits? Dr Google suggests that they include improving body strength (heart, lungs, legs), helping you live longer, reducing the risk of cancer and keeping your mind sharp with a lower chance of Alzheimer’s.
I had an enjoyable chat recently with Pip Windsor, a physiotherapist by profession and much involved in community life in Darlington, especially the Arts Festival and WRAP (see elsewhere in this editorial), but also for many years an enthusiastic runner. Husband Simon is an equally keen runner (mentioned in the last Review as designer of the King of the Mountain). Pip was able to give me a sketch of the running opportunities in our area and, whatever your physical ability and the differing things you want from your exercise, it is very unlikely that you won’t be able to find a running group to suit you.
the commentator suggested, though, his evident love of people and his continuing involvement in his community probably also has something to do with it.
It is amazing how quickly this year has flown by. It just seems a few weeks ago that we were still eating the chockies left over from Christmas and now, as a friend recently observed, it will not be long before we start to be inveigled by this year’s Xmas advertising. By the time you read this, the year will be half over, and we shall have had at least a week of gradually increasing daylight. Winter has officially begun and, as the two Davids mentioned above would do, we should look at all the many positives of the season.
The Windsor knot!
Pip herself is the leader of the Friday running group (the Friday Funners!) who get together to jog gently round the oval on (you guessed it!) Fridays. She is on the right at the back of the photo. Pip’s professional speciality is dysfunctional breathing a.k.a. 'medically unexplained breathlessness', one of the many conditions for which running is really beneficial. Even if that is not your problem, you might well enjoy it. It's run as an intervals session, with different timings of effort vs recovery, so it suits all abilities and fitness levels. Ring Pip on 0488 069 764. She can also sign you up for the Mundaring Social Runners (more details on Facebook). Seeing the hound at the front of the picture of the Friday group reminds me that Pip told me that one of the small disadvantages of the Oval run is that many folk who exercise their pets on the Oval do not seem to have grasped the simple rule that, if your dog does a doo-dad it is not something you should be sharing with the community. Please be polite and pick it up!
Fancy a bit of mental exercise in your running? Our late lamented good friend and neighbour Peter Edwards was a member for many years of the Hills Hash House Harriers who seem to go on a mystery run/walk in the bush just about every week. If you have wandered through the forest in our neighbourhood you may well have seen the markings (in white flour) left by the hares for the pursuing crowd of harriers to follow (or be confused by). Details on Facebook if you are interested (and it does involve more than just running).
Just picture it!
Visiting the Pavilion, the community garden or the bike ramps, you cannot have failed to see Alistair Taylor’s marvellous mural on the west wall of the pavilion. Painted in 2020, the artwork depicts many of the varied activities that happen on the oval – cricket, kids playing, dogs having fun!
If you are a local community organisation that would like to make use of this iconic artwork, it is possible that you may have that opportunity in the not-too-distant future. DaSRA has passed management of the Mural image over to the Darlington Review (with Alistair ‘s blessing) and we are in the process of formalising the arrangement with him, including copyright protection and criteria for its use by local community groups. Watch this space!
A small supply of the iconic mural t-shirts and some prints, that were produced at the time of its painting a few years back, have been donated to the Darlington Arts Festival and will be sold at this year’s Festival in November (just round the corner, the way this year is galloping along!).
Another regular local group are the Thursday Night runners, organised by the energetic Geoff Frost, whom you may have seen delivering your Reviews. They meet at the old station opposite the Post Office at 7.30 on Thursdays and jog to the Primary School oval to do their running. If you fancy that, just pitch up on Thursday evening and introduce yourself to Geoff.
I will end my outline of the world of running with mention of perhaps the most widespread running group ever, Parkrun, which I am ashamed to say I had never heard of before my meeting with Pip. Started in England a little over 20 years ago, it has now spread around the world, including Australia, with over 10 million registered runners world-wide. Every Saturday, you can meet at your local Parkrun location where you will complete a timed five kilometre course. You can run or walk, and it is open to young or old, fit or decrepit. Children or leashed dogs can accompany you. We have four Parkruns not too far from us – Mount Helena, Bushmead, and Woodbridge, and a more challenging one, Mundy, up the Kalamunda Road. More information available at https://www.parkrun.com.au/ The runs are absolutely free, unless you want to buy a Parkrun T-shirt and, especially if you’re new to the area, can be a great way to meet people.
So there you have it! A wide range of running opportunities to suit just about everybody.
The oval through Alistair’s eyes.
Bushy Park where it all started.
Darlington Friday Funners.
Wrap it up
Unless you have wandered east from the Community Garden or the bike jump area, you may very well be quite ignorant of the Darlington Wetland, although it has been mentioned several times in the Review over the past few years.
I was lucky enough recently to get a conducted tour of the area by Wetland Rehabilitation Action Plan (WRAP – don’t you just love a snappy and descriptive acronym?) organiser, Chris Arnold. Much of the work done over the nearly four years since WRAP came into being has been the removal of weeds and planting of a wide variety of more desirable plants by the Friends of the Darlington Wetland (FODW), and also the management of the water flow through the wetland. As mentioned in the April Review, this has included the placement of swales (long sacks of soil) across the lines where the water travels across the ground to slow it down and ensure that more of it soaks into the ground. Chris explained that he had seen this done in the Sahel in West Africa on the fringe of the Sahara desert where, as in much of Africa, the rain tends to fall heavily in one or two short periods, and it is vital to make it last longer. There, of course, it is a matter of life and death: ensuring the crops can grow. We in Darlington would survive even if the wetland were to dry up!
Chrissie Pavlovic
This time last year you might recall that we gave some publicity to the launch of her second music album, ‘Heartland’, by longtime Darlington resident and musician Chrissie Pavlovic. Two of the songs on this album were nominated in the top 20 for this year’s WAM (Western Australian Music) Song of the Year. One of them, ‘Never Too Late’ actually made the Top 5 which gave Chrissie a place at the Awards night. While it did not carry off the prize, this was none-the-less a stunning achievement.
Chrissie is a teacher who has brought music, drama and languages to students at a number of local schools. Now theoretically retired, this has given her more time to devote to her music composition and performance. In recent years, you may well have heard her playing at the Darlington Arts Festival in her
Apart from weed control and planting, which will again be going great guns this winter, and for several years to come, WRAP has secured Government funding for the construction of a viewing platform looking over the wetland (see photo above), two sets of steps leading down from the platform, and simple tracks to make the whole area more accessible to our community. Chris Arnold, a man of imagination and enthusiasm, has another intriguing idea at the back of his mind which might perhaps come to pass. Back in the days, the wetland was watered, as it still is, from what is now the oval and the gentle hill behind Pine Terrace. In addition, water would have flowed down from the Hillsden Road area and across the bush to join the other water supplies at the bottom. When a 12 foot cutting was dug to accommodate the railway, this source was cut off and it now flows into a ditch beside the railway reserve. Why not, suggests Chris, build a little aqueduct across and above the old railway where the previous channel would have been and restore, to some extent, that previous wetland water source? Sounds a great idea to me, well worth further investigation! Meanwhile, there is still lots of help needed with planting and weeding. If you can lend a hand, contact Kasia Thomson (FODW) on 0437 350 058 or Chris Arnold (WRAP) on 0497 999 985.
trio, ‘Trilogie’ (with Tim Simon and Craig Wallace-Gibb); or at other venues such as the Mahogany Inn, playing solo or as part of a duo or the trio. Originally trained as a classical guitarist, her music covers jazz, blues, folk, and ballads. Another album is in the pipeline and will be available possibly next year. One commentator has described her as “a rare voice in today’s musical landscape, with an inspiring story that proves it is never too late to follow your dreams. She speaks with wisdom, the clarity of experience, and a bold refusal to let time define us.” Having listened to ‘Heartland’, I can say that her music is engaging and delightful, and I would certainly recommend taking any opportunity you may have to listen to it. She can be contacted at chrissiepavlovic@ gmail.com and you can listen to the album on Spotify, or Bandcamp.
Chrissie Pavlovic
The Darlington wetland from the viewing platform.
Rock and roll?
You may have been surprised to see the appearance of a number of large granite rocks around and on the area behind the Hall. Used for parking for DAF and for other events that draw large crowds to Darlington’s prime auditorium, it is a public open space controlled by the Shire.
At a recent DRRA meeting, concern was raised by local residents that the intense vehicular traffic in the area was causing damage to the trees growing there and creating a hazard for pedestrians in that drivers parking there could enter and exit the area from just about anywhere. Following discussions with the Shire, they agreed to place protective rocks and vegetation around the trees, and also on the perimeter of the area so that the access points are limited. This, it seems, is what we are now seeing on the site. More detail can be found on the Darlington Hub.
Whether the protection to be provided for the trees is really necessary, and the extent to which people driving into and out of the car park actually endanger the safety of pedestrians, are, for some, still open questions. However, there is legitimate concern recent rocks installed, which would drastically reduce
Colin James
the amount of parking there, are excessively large and widely spaced. There was some discussion of the issue at the last DRRA Community Meeting, following which the committee will be discussing the matter with the Shire to see if the agreed solution to the perceived problems can be achieved more satisfactorily.
We’re on the screen!
As many of you will know (you may, indeed, have been interviewed for it!), Geoff Barker has been putting together a video on the extraordinary community we live in – Darlington! You will be glad to know that the wait is nearly over!
With a significant grant from Lotterywest and others from Bendigo Bank Mundaring, the Shire of Mundaring, the Darlington Review and DaSRA, over a two year period Geoff has led a small team of people, including the creative input of Editor, Steve Quartly, and the film has now reached the point where the editing process and concluding segments are being finalised. Those who provided essential resources for the production have expressed interest in using the film to promote the value and benefits to groups, and those involved in them,
Many of you will have seen with delight the recognition in the recent King’s Birthday Honours List of one of Darlington’s longest-serving stalwarts, Colin James. Colin was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal for his countless years of service to the Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade and other fire-related organisations.
As we know, his service has extended well beyond the fire brigade over the years. We will have a bit more on Colin and his contribution to our community in a forthcoming Review when he returns from a spell in the north for the official presentations in September. Meanwhile – congratulations, Colin, and thank you from all of us!
Colin
James AFSM.
of contributing to community. A "soft screening", to be held at the Darlington Hall, is being planned for early August to which all the many people who have been involved in the production of the film will be invited.
In due course, it is intended that all Darlington residents will get a link to the video, and Geoff is negotiating with the Shire of Mundaring and the Bendigo Bank to make the film available through links on their websites and other locations so as to maximise access opportunities.
This leads me on to speak about the last days of DaSRA, the community organisation under which the film idea was nurtured and brought to realisation and which now, its job done, is riding off into the sunset but before I do …
Rocking to avoid rolling.
Darlington’s Michael Moore!
DaSRA
– a job well done
What is DaSRA you might ask? (or, if you are a well-informed Darlington resident, you might not!) I am indebted to Geoff Barker, the Chairperson of DaSRA for much of its existence, for the following information.
Set up some 10 years ago, the Darlington Sports and Recreation Association (WA) Inc inherited the role from DCRAG (don’t ask) of managing the advancement of Darlington community projects. The first and most significant of these was the $1.3m Pavilion Project (including new meeting room, storage, office and public toilets in Stage 1 and upgrade of the old Pavilion kiosk and changerooms, plus new sports storage, in Stage 2.) which, among other things, brought Geoff fame as the man in the brick suit. Other community projects DaSRA supported and managed included the skatepark extension, the pump track, the Grand Arbor and its surroundings, the Darlington Community Garden and its lease and development, and the NoiseBin. Most recently, it was involved in auspicing the Darlington Film and its fundraising and production, and partnering with Darlington History Group for post production support, and archiving.
With nearly all its projects completed or passed on to another organisation to look after, it has been decided that DaSRA is
On the horizon ...
Before I ride off into the sunset myself, I need to draw to your attention a couple of important matters on the horizon brought up at the recent DRRA community meeting. The first is the Land Use Planning Strategy discussed at the June Mundaring Council meeting.
This is essentially a document spelling out what changes might be made to land use in our Shire – lot sizes, building types, and many other aspects of what we can and cannot do with our natural environment. See the DRRA notes and the Councillor’s column for more details. We will have a period to read and comment on the document before it is adopted and, if you care about maintaining the qualities of this place we live in, it is really important that you read it and have your say.
The second is an earnest appeal. DRRA has set up a Projects
reaching its use-by date and, once the film has hit the screens later this year (see elsewhere in this bulletin), it will be wound up. A good example of Darlington’s capacity to solve problems and, once they have been dealt with, to put the solution in the can! In this case, it is hoped that community projects will henceforth be dealt with by the newly-established DRRA Project Advisory Group (see below).
Advisory Group following valuable work by Chris Arnold and Geoff Barker. The group will be available to offer advice and help to deliver future projects proposed by local groups on public land that have been approved by the community and the Shire. The terms of reference for the group have been established, so all that is needed now are volunteers to run it! If you might be interested, ring Chris Arnold on 0497 999 985 for details..
That’s it from me for this year. As always, it has been interesting and enjoyable to share the lives and achievements of some of the fascinating folk we share this place with, and to pass some of that information on to you. I hope you have enjoyed it and that you may have a reasonably warm, but appropriately rainy, winter. Go well!
Chris Durrant
WHAT'S ON
Darlington Concerts Number 3: At the Darlington Hall on the afternoon of Sunday July 26th. The Darlington Quartet plays Brahms, Barber and Terry Riley. Booking details in the ad in the Review.
Winter Schools Concert: On the evening of Monday July 27th hear some our most talented young musicians perform at Eastern Hills SHS auditorium. More information elsewhere in the Review. Your best value musical ticket of the year!
‘Midwinter’ at Juniper Galleries: Opened June 21st, running until the end of July. A vibrant exhibition of work by some amazing artists. Also some great entertainment – see elsewhere in this Review.
Mother Earth exhibition in support of Future Youth, Darlington Hall, August 7th (opening night), and August 8th and 9th. Works by artists Gina Scriven, Olivia Kalin and Cathryn and Bruce Cann (see Letters).
Disclaimer: The Darlington Review’s Rules of Association (2024) read: “To produce and publish a monthly journal with the intention of fostering good relationships within the Darlington community, supporting the community, and keeping residents informed about community issues.” Our Guide for Scribes invites members to submit notes "to inform members and the Darlington Community about past, ongoing and future activities…”. The Review accepts no liability for errors/omissions contained in articles, statements or advertisements published herein. The views expressed in Letters and Notes are not the views of the Darlington Review and we are not responsible for them. Members are requested to ensure their notes adhere to the magazine’s guiding spirit of fostering harmonious community relationships. The Darlington Review is available in digital format via darlingtonreview.com.au, the online website.
Pavilion VIPs with DaSRA Committee.
My Space | Thomas Windsor | Pat Underwood | Callan Wood
With news of NASA’s successful Artemis mission to the far side of the moon exciting local kids who dream of journeying into space, it’s nice to know that three young men who grew up in Darlington are ensuring that Australia continues to have an important role in this new era of exploration. They talk to Chris Durrant about their studies and careers.
The first of these is, quite coincidentally, a close associate of our aforementioned Running Royalty, Pip and Simon Windsor, their son Thomas. A graduate of Darlington Primary and Perth Modern Schools, Thomas did a science degree (Botany and Zoology) at UWA, during which he developed his interest in the world about us and, more specifically, the other worlds of which our planet is a tiny part.
Now living in Adelaide, he spent a year working for the Bureau of Meteorology at Casey Station in Antarctica. As he explained to me, one of the advantages of Australia, apart from its position on the Earth relative to the galaxy of which we are part, is that there are large areas with little vegetation and no artificial light and a surface geology so that conditions there are possibly not dissimilar to those on Mars or other potential destinations for space travel. This facilitates what is described as ‘analogue fieldwork’ in which, to find out more about places you cannot yet access, you study places you can go to which you have reason to suppose are likely to be similar.
Thomas has been working for Australian Desert Expeditions which does scientific and ecological expeditions into remote parts of central Australia, on foot, accompanied by pack-camels
Thomas Windsor and travelling companion.
(when we spoke, he had just returned from 29 days walking across the Simpson Desert). Apart from our outback and Antarctica, the other area which scientists look at to see what it might be like in Mars, is Ladakh, a territory in the north of India, where the Mars Society Australia has been playing a significant role in the work of the Indian Space Research Organisation. Check out https://www. protoplanet.co/hope if you’d like to know more.
Thomas has visited Ladakh and had an interesting experience there. Although largely uninhabited and desertified, the territory has a considerable military significance for India, being bounded by Tibet, China, and Pakistan. Consequently the authorities were unhappy to find in Thomas’ baggage one of those little devices we use to locate people, and they took a while to be convinced that this did not make him a security threat. Not a problem that, you would imagine, is very likely to confront human visitors to Mars!
The second local lad in the space game is Pat Underwood. Born in England, he came to WA as a child with his parents and grew up in Darlington, graduating from Helena College. According to his mum, he had an interest in the air and space from an early age when they lived at Slough near London airport and he watched Concorde taking off. Unable, because of COVID, to complete his aeronautical engineering degree in Perth, he completed it at the RMIT in Melbourne where he has gone on to obtain a PhD in propulsion, specifically the sort needed to enable us to travel far enough to visit, and perhaps dwell on, distant planets. Will we, I asked, have people living on Mars within the next 50 years? Very likely, he thinks, with residents on the moon in five years!
Pat Underwood and the RMIT rocket.
Callan
Wood | Pat Underwood | Thomas Windsor | My Space
One of the most interesting things Pat has done during his time at RMIT is twice participating in an international competition in Texas for designing, building and launching a rocket. He led the team in 2024 when they won the Technical Excellence award, and was Deputy Leader the following year, when they won the Innovation Prize. He also worked for a while in Adelaide at the Saab space team (and you thought they just made cars!). Quite clearly, he is a man to watch and when, a few years from now, we see the space missions, with their new fuel-efficient propulsion systems, turning our galaxy into our backyard, we may be able to say with some justification, “Product of Darlington!” Concorde may have hung up her boots, but Patrick Underwood is just setting out in his!
The last Darlington person in the space game to mention is Callan Wood, another DPS graduate who finished off his schooldays at Mazenod College. Especially interested in physics from his schooldays, Callan did a Bachelor of Advanced Science degree at Curtin Uni and moved on to a PhD in Astrophysics. Apparently, he told me, WA has one of the greatest concentration of astrophysicists in the world, due to the fact that we host one half of the world’s largest radio-telescope, the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). Sited in a remote radio-quiet part of the Murchison Shire, east of Geraldton, the SKA is a global astronomy project, with the other half located in South Africa and the headquarters located in Manchester.
Like most of his fellow astrophysicists, Callan is heavily involved in research, in his case focussing on that fascinating astrophysical phenomenon, the Black Hole. A Black Hole (and forgive me if I am telling you something you already know) is a type of star so dense that its gravity prevents anything, even light, from
escaping. It can be identified and studied only by observing the other astronomical bodies and systems in its vicinity, and making inferences from their behaviour. Callan studies what happens when the material that is about to be devoured by a black hole is instead ejected at close to the speed of light. To do this, he uses a global network of radio dishes, which are combined together to create an Earth-sized telescope that can zoom-in to the cosmos with enough resolving power to make out a $2 coin in Sydney... from Perth! Global collaboration is a hallmark of astrophysics research.
Callan’s work in WA has been largely funded by the Forrest Research Foundation but he will soon be moving to Oxford, England, to take up a research position there where he will be bringing the expertise in radio astronomy that he developed here in WA to continue his research into black holes.
So, for all of you who supposed that the bright lights in our Darlington Community sky are just artists and writers, take note that they also include some top scientists who may well someday change how, and even where, we live our lives!
In August, four local artists - Gina Scriven, Olivia Kalin, Cathryn and Bruce Cann are holding a short exhibition called "Mother Earth". They will be showcasing their premier work on the opening night from 7 to 9 pm, Friday, 7th August, at the Darlington Hall. The exhibition highlights the artist's creative process using earthy materials of glass and clay, and the spirit of the Aboriginal culture of this land through paintings.
Not only will you be the first to see the latest pieces by these talented artists, but they have also donated artworks for a silent auction to raise funds for Future Youth.
The opening night is limited to 100 people. Tickets are currently
available for the small price of $10. This allows entry, a glass of wine from Darlington Liquor Store, homemade canapés by Debra Stone and the first opportunity to purchase galleryquality original artwork.
For those who are unable to attend on Friday night, the exhibition will continue on Saturday 8th, from 9 am to 1 pm. Free to the public. To purchase tickets, please see Trybooking. net. Mother Earth exhibition.
Gina, Olivia, Cathryn and Bruce look forward to sharing their stories and inspiration with you.
Gina Scriven
Please keep Letter to the Review brief and include your name, address and phone number. Contact details will not be printed and you can request that a pseudonym rather than your name be used. Letters must be emailed to: editorial darlingtonreview.com.au or placed in the Review box in the Post Office by the deadline date of the 20th of the month.
(Left): Callan Wood. Top: An artist's impression of a black hole that Callan has studied in his PhD. As material from a nearby star spirals into the black hole, a powerful beam of material is ejected. Credit: ESA/Hubble [CC BY 4.0].
Congratulations to the Bullwinkel residents recognised in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours List.
This year's recipients have made outstanding contributions to our community through service, leadership and dedication to others.
Federal Member for Bullwinkel | Trish Cook MP
Congratulations to Emeritus Professor Mark Bush AM, recognised for significant service to engineering, tertiary education and the community; Alva Knuckey OAM, recognised for service to charitable organisations; Superintendent Jason Beesley APM, awarded the Australian Police Medal; and our own Colin James AFSM, awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal.
I would like to make special mention of Colin James AFSM. Colin's award recognises years of dedicated service to our community through emergency management and volunteer firefighting. I worked with Colin for many years while he was the long-serving secretary of the Darlington Community Recreation Advisory Group (DCRAG), and also when we ran the Darlington Bonfires to clear highly flammable wattles from the wetland area.
The recognition of Colin and Mark is also a reminder of the incredible contribution made by emergency services personnel and volunteers across the Perth Hills. Mark is a longserving member of the Parkerville Volunteer Bushfire Brigade. Whether responding to bushfires, storms, road crashes or other
emergencies, our volunteer firefighters, SES volunteers and emergency service workers are there when our communities need them most.
Thank you to everyone who has worked tirelessly through recent storm events, challenging fire seasons and emergency incidents to keep local families safe.
As the Perth Hills faces increasing fire risk, it's vital that our volunteers have the facilities and equipment they need.
My election commitment of $3.9 million to upgrade volunteer fire brigade stations in Darlington, Glen Forrest, Chidlow, Mt Helena, Parkerville and Wooroloo will be delivered through the Shire of Mundaring once the scope of works is finalised.
I'm also happy to be delivering $1.2 million to strengthen the mobile tower network across the Perth Hills. The funds will upgrade up to 23 existing mobile tower sites to improve battery backup times and connectivity during power outages, bushfires and other emergencies.
Congratulations once again to all recipients of the 2026 King's Birthday Honours. Your service and contributions make our community stronger, safer and more resilient.
If you have any questions, concerns or a great idea to share, please don't hesitate to contact my office at trish.cook.mp@aph. gov.au or on (08) 7079 0480.
Member for Kalamunda | Adam Hort MP
As winter settles into the Hills, many Darlington residents will be keeping a close eye on the weather forecast.
While winter brings much-needed rainfall and helps keep our beautiful bushland healthy, it also brings the risk of storms, strong winds and power outages. These are challenges that many residents know all too well.
I know Darlington residents have experienced power interruptions during recent storms, sometimes for extended periods. Fallen trees and branches, damaged powerlines and difficult access for repair crews can all contribute to outages across our Hills communities.
When the power goes out, the impacts are felt quickly. Homes lose heating and hot water, food can spoil, internet and phone charging become difficult, and for some residents there can be serious concerns about medical equipment and communication during emergencies.
As our community heads into the heart of winter, it is important that electricity reliability remains a priority. Darlington's heavily treed environment is one of the reasons so many people choose to live here, but it also presents unique challenges for maintaining power infrastructure during severe weather.
I have continued to raise concerns about electricity reliability in the Hills with Western Power and the Minister for
Energy, seeking greater transparency about outage causes, vegetation management programs and planned network upgrades. Residents deserve confidence that the electricity network is resilient and prepared for the conditions we regularly experience during winter.
I also encourage residents to take simple steps to prepare for storm season. Having charged devices, torches, spare batteries and an emergency plan can make a significant difference if outages occur. It is also worth checking around your property for overhanging branches that could pose a risk during strong winds.
Our local emergency service volunteers play a critical role during severe weather events. The dedicated members of the Mundaring State Emergency Services unit and other emergency services often spend long hours responding to storm damage, clearing roads and assisting residents when conditions are at their worst.
If you need assistance during a storm or severe weather event, contact the SES on 132 500. If the situation is life-threatening, always call 000.
Darlington has always been a community that looks out for one another. A quick check on neighbours, particularly older residents or those living alone, can make a real difference when storms impact our area.
Cr Luke Ellery| Councillor's Column South Ward | Shire of Mundaring
At their June meeting, Council noted the Land Use Planning Strategy, requested the CEO make some minor changes and go out for 90 days of community consultation.
Why Does the Shire Need a Planning Strategy?
The State Government sets the growth targets that Local governments need to demonstrate how they can achieve. The State Plan is for Perth and Peel to grow to 3.5 million people by 2050 but due to high international and interstate migration post pandemic, Perth is one of the fastest growing capitals and years ahead of growth targets. This puts significant pressure on how the Shire can achieve this whilst protecting the character of the beautiful place we live.
What Does It Mean for Darlington?
The proposed changes for our Darlington are genuinely minimal. Darlington, Glen Forrest, and Boya sit within Planning Area 3 of the strategy. The vast majority of Darlington is R5 (min. 2,000m² or ½ acre block). Darlington is constrained by several important factors:
1. ‘Extreme’ bushfire risk
2. No reticulated sewer (minimal lot sizes for ATUs)
3. Geography, topography and hydrology (simply put; its rocky, hilly, and there are protected creeks)
4. Boundaries of Greenmount and John Forest national parks and the protection of wildlife corridors.
These constraints mean large-scale development simply isn’t viable.
The strategy does consider small scale subdivision to R10 (1, 000m²) lots which is the minimum size for un-sewered areas. This would be limited due to the above constraints. The strategy
is unclear as to whether this would be small pockets based on the above constrains, allowing R2.5 (min 4,000m²) to subdivide or other means. My understanding is that this does not mean all R5 will be rezoned to R10. It should be explained that R codes specify what is permitted; no home is ever forced to subdivide. Please do communicate your views on if you are comfortable with any change and where this is best achieved.
Where Growth Will Actually Occur
The bulk of growth across the Shire is directed toward areas with existing or planned infrastructure. New estates in Helena Valley and Bellevue will absorb most new dwellings, and increased residential density is proposed for Swan View, along with Midvale, Greenmount— areas with better access to services, water infrastructure and the transport network. This is where the state’s infill targets can realistically be met.
A Rural Strategy Is on the Way
Council also recognises that some landowners in our rural and rural residential areas may wish to consider smaller lot subdivisions. While outside the formal scope of the LUPS, the strategy flags the need for a dedicated Rural Land Strategy to investigate these options properly. Council will keep the community updated as that work progresses.
Have Your Say
This is a draft - your feedback shapes the outcome. This strategy will set the direction for the Local Planning Strategy; the next stage that looks at setbacks, and finer details before the final Local Planning Scheme is adopted in 2028. There will be several consultation sessions so keep an eye out in local papers, shire website and social media. All submissions will be tabled for council to consider. Feel free to reach out to me directly as well.
2026 Advertising Rates and Subscriptions
SUBSCRIPTIONS: Non-profit community-based organisations may become members of the Review.
Membership costs:
• Full page 11 issues - $280 per year (Text only 900 words. With photos 450 words).
• Full page 6 issues - $148 per half year (Text only 900 words. With photos 450 words).
• Half page 11 issues - $148 per year (Text only 400 words. With photo 350 words)
• Half page 6 issues - $79 per half year (Text only 400 words. With photo 350 words)
Word & photo samples available in Guideline to Scribes.
Advertising on Covers – available to Member Groups
• Front page $200
• Back page $200
• Inside back page $160
Darlington Ratepayers and Residents Association (DRRA)
“Preserving the character of Darlington and safeguarding the interests of its ratepayers and residents - Since 1909”
At the June Ordinary Shire Council meeting, the DRAFT Land Use Planning Strategy (LUPS) was on the agenda for ratification by Council, prior to going out to the community for comment. The LUPS seeks to manage growth in a sustainable way, ensuring the Shire of Mundaring continues to be an attractive place to live and work. The strategy recommends various opportunities for residential growth within the Shire, including standard urban re-zonings and upcoding, within existing urban area. Of particular importance is the urban infill target defined by the North-Eastern SubRegional Planning Framework. This Framework identifies that 2.760 infill dwellings, and a total of 8070 dwellings should be constructed in existing settlements or along the logical continuation of urban corridors by 2050. It should be noted that these targets are aspirational and not a requirement.
The DRAFT LUPS document, in an effort to meet some of these targets recommends as the strategy for Darlington, Boya and Glen Forrest, ‘Consider allowing for minimal increase in density to R5–R10 to support semi-rural lifestyles while permitting small lot subdivision which aligns with the character and identity of the area’. This means that the current recommendation is for up-coding so that blocks can be subdivided into 1000m2 (¼ acre). At the same time, the document speaks of the Shire of Mundaring being known for its semi-rural character, with large residential lots, extensive tree canopy and a strong local identity. Without a strong policy on mature tree protection and with BAL requirements as they are, any development that takes place now results in tree canopy being removed, and we need to be mindful of this
Shire President Paige McNeil stated at the Council meeting; ‘It is myopic that the State Government is asking us to plant more trees, and we as a Shire are not advocating to the State Govt that we have different circumstances. We need to think differently and plan differently’.
With the Development Assessment Panel (DAP) option for all development planning approvals of $2 Million and above, local Government can now be completely bypassed. This results in us having no local voice in the process, and given the very poor experience Darlington has had with State Government involvement in the past, with the building of display homes within the village precinct, and more recently, the approval of a large commercial childcare on Amherst Ave, where both
applications were approved despite strong community resistance, and with disregard to significant concerns raised around their appropriateness of location, we need to be alert to any zoning changes. Subdivision by stealth must be resisted to ensure that development is appropriate, sympathetic to the environment and character of the area, and sustainable.
Monthly community meetings, the Review notes, the DRRA Facebook page and the community noticeboards near the Hive and the Post Office will be used to notify the community when the finalized LUPS is released and of any upcoming community consultation opportunities. All documents can be found on the shire website.
On the recent meteorite shower which deposited coffee rocks in the Shire open area near the Hall, we note that this has generated some debate, both positive and negative, within the community. The Shire was exceptionally efficient in responding to a request from DRRA to protect the tree roots of the mature trees, and to stop vehicular traffic from driving across the footpath on to Pine Terrace. Unfortunately, the rock placement needs some adjustment, and we immediately contacted the Shire to discuss making changes to reflect our original intent. The mediation process is underway, with the intended outcome being plants and mulching under the trees, and a natural border around the area to contain any vehicular traffic and improve pedestrian safety.
With DRRA’s mandate being ‘to preserve and enhance the character of the village’, we welcome community involvement and would love to see new members at community meetings.
Next community meeting: Thursday 9 July 7:30pm at the Hall DRRA membership is $20/ annum/ individual. For membership enquiries please contact Malcolm on 0400 204 845.
Darlington Bushfire Ready Group
Recently we held our post-season street contacts meeting, which included representatives from the Shire, DFES Community Preparedness, and Brigade. As we had two significant fires in Darlington this year, it was pleasing note additional residents attending to discuss them and the outcomes.
The Shire undertook a review of the two incidents and following is their comments presented at the meeting.
What the incidents reinforced:
• Fires can escalate close to homes very quickly. People may first become aware through smoke, sirens, helicopters, or visible activity nearby, before they have checked an official warning.
• That is why street-level connection matters. It helps people treat local cues as a prompt to check information, start their plan early, and avoid losing valuable time.
• Connected streets also make it easier to check on neighbours, welcome new residents into local networks, and reduce confusion during a fast-moving incident.
• Street groups do not replace official warnings. They help people act on them earlier and more confidently.
What residents told us:
• Local networks helped. Residents valued neighbour contact, phone trees, street message groups, and Bush Fire Ready connections.
• Flexibility in planning was important. Households responded in different ways depending on where they were, what they knew, and how conditions changed. Good plans need to cover more than one scenario.
• Roads, communications, pets, and return-home arrangements remain pressure points. These are the kinds of details that can delay decisions and add stress if they have not been thought through beforehand.
• Street groups can help by sharing practical reminders before summer: property preparedness information, know your trigger, plan for pets, think about what you would take, and expect that power, mobile coverage, and road access may all be affected. What we can focus on in the lead up to next season.
• Keep connecting residents into local groups: build on streets that already have strong.
It was also noted by the DFES representative their reflections. Season reflections
Over the past season, it has been consistently observed that streets with active coordinators are better prepared, more
informed, and more confident in responding to bushfire risk. The strength of local networks whether through informal conversations, street meetings, or online communication groups continues to play a critical role in building community resilience.
Encouragingly, there has also been an increase in awareness of alerts and warnings information through Emergency WA both via the webpage and the app. This has reinforced the importance of having a bushfire plan in place. Many households are taking steps to create or update their plans, including using the app, which is a positive shift.
Street contacts whom were present and close living near the fires also reported their streets actions as the warning systems... Whats App; phone tree and DFES alerts, were undertaken. Some evacuated, which created some concern with directions given, but all were very grateful for Brigades rapid response and the Air suppression activity.
The Shire have also commented on their Bushfire Area Access Strategy Project with an update on the following roads and associated probabilities to consider how best to allow emergency access in such a situation.
Brigade noted hazard reduction burns being undertaken, together with the Shire, but these maybe limited as the soil moisture content is recovering slowly, and initial rains may just run off before soaking in - and as I write these notes I am not sure these downpours will be sufficient to dampen the soil.
Local highlight – Mundaring Big Map event...undertaken by the Shire and being considered to also provide for Darlington to undertake.A recent example of community-led preparedness in action is the Mundaring Big Map event.
This interactive session brought community members together around a large-scale map of the local area to identify hazards, share local knowledge, and discuss how they would respond in a bushfire scenario. The activity is designed to support communities to better understand local risks and work collectively to improve preparedness and resilience.
Initiatives such as this complement the work being undertaken by Street Coordinators and reinforce the value of local knowledge and shared responsibility.
Don’t forget it is never to early to start your site preparedness because much easier with some dampness in the soil or look at your tree cover, and of course needing any further information come down to the Fire station any Saturday morning between 9.00am-10.00am.
Colin James | Coordinator
0419 969 223
For more information about what you can do to be prepared for bushfires, contact the Department of Fire and Emergency Service (DFES) Community Preparedness team on 9395 9300 or visit the DFES website on www.dfes.wa.gov.au. Firebreak notices and information can be accessed from the Shire of Mundaring on 9290 6666 or website on www.mundaring.wa.gov.au
Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade
REMEMBER
000 is the ONLY number to ring for all fire and smoke sightings.
The ComCen will page our members who are on duty.
For general Brigade enquiries please ring 9299 7217. Station hours: Saturday 9am-10:30am.
Web: darlingtonfire.org.au • Facebook: Darlington Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade • Instagram: dvbfb_ Next Brigade meeting: AGM - Tuesday, July 14th, 2026 at the Darlington Fire Station.
The Darlington Brigade is immensely proud to recognise stalwart member Colin James AFSM, for receiving the Australian Fire Service Medal, the highest national honour recognizing distinguished service by a member of the Australian fire services.
Colin joined our Brigade in February 1980, and it didn’t take long for him to make his mark. He became a Lieutenant in 1981, and in 1984 he became the 1st Lieutenant. In 1988 Colin was elected Captain and led the Brigade until 1992. During those years he wrote countless burn permits and helped the Brigade conduct hundreds of hazard reduction. In 1992 Colin returned to the ranks of fire fighter.
Long before Incident Control Vehicles became commonplace, the Swan Region Bush Fire Service communications bus was operated out of Darlington Station from 1995, and Colin was a key member of that group. By 1998 there was no longer need for the bus, but as the Bush Fire Service had now commenced aerial fire surveillance Darlington became the host Brigade for this group of volunteers. Operations were set up in the Station, and Colin was appointed as an Air Intelligence Officer on the fire ground, reporting visual details to Incident Control. Air Operations is now under DFES control, but Colin maintains a role as an Air Base Manager. It is this role that saw him deployed to New South Wales for two weeks in
2019, to assist at the Black Summer bushfires.
In 1999, the State Government introduced the Community Fireguard programme, and Darlington was the first group to be formed with Colin stepping forward as its coordinator. More than 25 years later he continues to be involved with Darlington's Bushfire Ready Group. Then, with the introduction of helicopter water bombers in 2003, the Darlington Brigade was issued a collar tank unit (water refill pools). Since its arrival, Colin has been a member of that group and continues to be so. And, with the formation of the Darlington Volunteer Fire Support Team in 2014, Colin was appointed its Lieutenant. He remained in that position for 10 years and is still an active member of the Support team.
Outside of the Brigade, Colin spent 16 years as a Councillor with the Shire of Mundaring, including being the Chair of the Bush Fire Advisory Committee for a number of years. Colin lists his greatest achievement as, whilst Chair of the Shire of Mundaring Emergency Advisory Board, getting the Mundaring Emergency Services Centre built for co-locating the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, State Emergency Service, and Mundaring ICV operations.
Congratulations Colin on more than 46 years volunteer service, and your well-deserved recognition.
If you are planning fuel reduction burns on your property, PLEASE take all precautions when lighting fires, importantly making sure fires are not left unattended, and are fully extinguished. Advise your neighbours before lighting up and register your burns with DFES on 9395 9209. DFES has also created the Burn Smart programme to help people conduct safe and effective burns during the milder months. The Burn Smart website provides information, plans, checklists, guides, and resources to help you plan and conduct a burn on your property. Head to dfes.wa.gov. au/plannedburning.
Brisk mornings and cool evenings are once again chilling our bones, and many of us are relying on wood fires, gas, or electric heaters for comfort and warmth. Each year during the winter months fire services are called to chimney fires, so now is the time to have your chimneys and flues cleaned by a professional. Unfortunately, those heat sources are also the cause of many house fires. Remember that fires and heaters should NEVER be left unattended, and flammable materials should be kept well
Darlington
July 2026
away from open flames and heat sources. Please be mindful of the location of your heaters, and what surrounds them. Ensure things like clothes, curtains, blinds, and furniture are kept at least one metre away from heaters, and that all heaters are turned off when you leave your house.
Did you know your sense of smell reduces when you sleep? People are not usually woken in the middle of the night by the smell of smoke, but by other factors like noise, light or increase in temperature. If you forgot to do it on June 1st, now is a good time to check your smoke alarms, including back-up batteries. If you have children at home test your smoke alarm so they know what it sounds like, talk to them about what to do if they hear it, and create an evacuation plan for your home in case of an emergency.
“When a man becomes a fireman his greatest act of bravery has been accomplished. What he does after that is all in the line of work.”
~ Edward F. Croker
Ricky Harvey
Darlington Arts Festival
DAF 2026 Poster
The 2026 Festival poster (pictured below), featuring Carla Graham’s winning entry, Silver Princess, will soon appear across Darlington and Perth as the Committee begins promoting the Festival. Thanks again to all who entered the poster competition.
DAFYEP!
We’re seeking an enthusiastic team to lead the Youth Engagement Program (DAFYEP!) for teenagers.
If you’re interested, know someone who would be a great fit, or would like to learn more, email president@ darlingtonartsfestival.com
This role is best shared, so bring your crew! Planning is already underway, and plenty of support will be provided.
Mullets, Mayhem and Bingo
Dust off the flannel, tease up the mullet and get ready for a night of outrageous fun as Bogan Bingo takes over the Darlington Hall on August 15 from 8pm to midnight, raising funds for the Festival.
Guests are encouraged to embrace their inner bogan, with prizes up for grabs for Best Dressed Guy, Best Dressed Girl and Biggest Bogan, alongside a crowd-pleasing Air Guitar Championship guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs.
The fun doesn’t stop when the bingo ends, with a DJ spinning the biggest 80s and 90s party anthems to keep the dance floor pumping until midnight.
Attendees are welcome to BYO alcohol and nibbles, making it the perfect excuse to gather friends, dress outrageously and enjoy a memorable night out - all while supporting the Festival.
Whether you’re a seasoned bogan or just keen for a great night of entertainment, this promises to be one of the most entertaining fundraisers of the year.
$40 pp but seats are limited so book your table of 8 now! https://www.trybooking.com/DNIOF
Please note this is and 18+ only event.
Got wares or flair?
Expressions of interest are now open for stallholders and performers wanting to be part of the Festival, including food vendors, ride operators, artisan stallholders and entertainers. Visit the website for details.
All art competition categories open! Artists at all levels of experience are encouraged to enter artwork and take up the opportunity to develop their talent and fulfil their dreams.
Sculpture on the Scarp is your opportunity to exhibit sculptural work in a unique bushland setting. The Darlington Station Reserve comes alive with diverse artworks displayed along the trail, amongst the curated native understorey and suspended between the trees. With a total prize pool of $4000 this category is a highlight of the Festival weekend.
Entries for Sculpture close on 31 July 2026.
Open Art
Visual artists over the age of 18, it’s your time to shine! All styles and mediums welcome but must be for sale. A total prize pool of $7000 to be won.
Youth Art
Are you a high school student between the ages of 12 and 18? Got creative vibes? Enter your best work and be in the running to take home part of the total prize pool of $1750:
Junior Art
This category is open to original artwork from primary school students aged 4 to 12 in the areas of paint, sketch, 3D artwork and collage – all displayed over the Festival weekend. The aged groupings are 4-6, 7-8, 9-10,11-12.
Entries for Open, Youth and Junior Art close on 23 October 2026. Visit our website to find out more – darlingtonartsfestival.com/ participate
Thank you to our volunteers!
The festival is not possible without an incredible group of volunteers that work throughout the year and across Festival weekend to deliver our fabulous event. To all those who help in big and small ways - whether it’s behind the scenes or front and centreyour kindness, energy, dedication - and mostly your time – is so appreciated.
Support comes in many shapes and sizes
Darlington Arts Festival relies on grants, sponsorships, donations and fundraising events. Donations of any amount are very welcome, at any time in the year and you can even throw us a monthly or annual donation to set and forget! Help us keep this fabulous festival free and thriving by donating today: https://www. darlingtonartsfestival.com/ support/donate/
Darlington Junior Football Club
Darlington Junior Football Club continues to enjoy a busy and successful footy season!
A recent highlight was the Swans Gala Day, held on Saturday 20 June at the Gidgegannup Junior Football Club. The event brings together PrePrimary and Year 1 Auskickers from clubs across the region, giving players the opportunity to participate in a series of mini matches against other teams. It’s a fantastic chance for our young footballers to put the skills they’ve been learning throughout the season into practice in a fun, supportive and game-based environment.
It was a busy and exciting day, with around 20 PrePrimary teams and 21 Year 1 teams participating in the event. Our Darlington teams each played three 20-minute games, with parent coaches stepping in as on-field umpires while providing encouragement, guidance and support to our players throughout the day.
We were extremely proud of our teams on the day. It was great to see everyone have a go, support their teammates and show great sportsmanship. It was wonderful to see the confidence and skills they have developed throughout the season on display.
Thank you to our parent coaches who assisted on the day and helped ensure the event was an enjoyable experience for our teams, we simply would not have been able to participate without their involvement. Thanks to the parents and carers that signed their kids up for the day, braving the cold to cheer from the sidelines.
Across junior football there has also been some amazing milestones this season. Huge congratulations to Cooper who reached 50 games for the Darlington Junior Football Club in June! From Cooper’s first game in the black and white to his 50th - he’s shown commitment, determination, teamwork and true Bushranger spirit. Cooper’s hard work and passion for the game have made him a valued teammate and a great representative of our club. We were proud to celebrate this achievement with Cooper!
We would like to thank the many parents and carers who assist our coaches each week across both Auskick and junior footy. Their support helps the season run smoothly and ensure the kids get the most of out of the season.
Shout out to the families that have been running our canteen every week, providing delicious sausage sizzles, burgers and refreshments for our Auskick community each Friday night.
With plenty of football still to come this season, we look forward to seeing our players continue to learn, improve and enjoy being part of the Darlington Junior Football Club community.
Shop 10a Central Mall , Kalamunda , WA , 6076 (08) 9293 1011
Email sales@whiteroomframingstudios com au
Welcome to White Room Framing Studios located in Kalamunda , the heart of the Perth Hills Living locally, owner Angela Eastman has over 25 years’ experience working within the picture framing & interior design industries Angela is not only passionate about art and framing, but also about the story behind each piece, the story that you are trying to tell and share with those around you. Angela understands that while framing a loved and inspired piece can be daunting for some, it is second nature at the White Room Framing Studios. Our gallery supports local Perth and Australian artists, exhibiting a wide variety of original and limited edition artworks of diverse mediums that are available for you to view, contemplate and purchase in-store Get in
Darlington Social Cricket Club
A Hundred Reasons to Celebrate
A century is rare on the field at DSCC and even rarer off it and without doubt cause for celebration. On 17 July 2026 our DSCC community will quietly celebrate a dearly loved member of our family, Molly Jones. Molly, mother of DSCC’s pantomime villain Stephen, has been a welcome face around the club for almost 35 years.
Molly was born in Albany in 1926, a year when the town was celebrating 100 years of colonial settlement. Australia’s prime minister was Stanley Bruce and Molly is older than both Aeroplane Jelly and the Miss Australia Pageant. Molly’s early life was beset with grief and trauma, her mother died when she was just six weeks old and her formative years were shaped between various extended family members and interspersed with runaway train rides back to Cranbrook.
Molly was extraordinarily resilient as a child which matured into a confidence as she grew into a young lady and by happenstance she “tripped over” Harold Jones at a dance. He was purportedly earmarked for another named Milly but Molly thought otherwise and her seductive dance moves had their bodies connecting on the dance floor and the rest is history.
Harold and Molly were married in 1948, a union that endured more than 50 years and blossomed with the arrivals of Emma in 1951, Stephen in 1952 and Francine some years later in 1966. For many years Molly ran the local shop in Mount Barker and has made the Great Southern region her lifelong home.
Molly had one significant brush with death in her life 41 years ago when the writers of A Country Practice tried to kill her off with leukaemia but with stoicism and mistaken identity she managed to pull through knowing her best years were still yet to come.
Mario Cavallaro must shoulder the majority of the blame for allowing Stephen Jones to infiltrate DSCC in 1992. A severe offence that might have attracted substantial sanction had it not been for the redeeming qualities that Stephen was able to leverage from his mother Molly. Over the years Molly has been a regular at DSCC events most notably at Christmas matches and long weekend getaways at Augusta and Denmark.
Molly has had a terrific fondness for her son’s cricketing endeavours supporting him in many ways. She has fondly connected with his teammates, often expressing great love for the DSCC community and Molly even had a special connection
Molly and son (Thanks Monique Hill for the photos). with Stephen’s former batting coach, the late Robin Smith. Robin once quietly told Molly that despite his top level cricketing credentials he didn’t think that he could make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear and that she had better live to the age of 100 as it would be the only way Stephen could ever get to celebrate a century!
Life is a little less hectic for Molly these days and a quiet dinner with her closest family is how she plans to raise the bat as her life’s scoreboard ticks over to triple digits. DSCC will collectively and remotely raise our glasses to toast the Jones family as you celebrate, thank you Molly, for all the joy you bring to our club, cheers!
An excerpt from The Ballad of Stephen and Molly Jones Happy ever after at the campground place, Stephen has the children’s games in hand. Molly lights the night up with her pretty face, And she’s the reason Stephen hasn’t yet been banned Obladi oblada life goes on …
of her DSCC friends, Stephen struggling to hide the excitement
(Left): Beauty and the Beast - Molly not perturbed in the slightest by this anonymous masked hooligan (Thanks Tracie Lucas for the photos). (Centre): Tracie and Molly. (Right): Molly pictured with a selection
of being invited to sit at the “grown-ups table”.
The club had great fun at our games night and book night. We will have more of these as some need to practice their skills.
Members had very interesting reviews on books as we are never too old to keep learning.
We are looking to have a theatre night once we find a show that suits us. I will let you know and attach a brochure.
We will also have a soup or casserole night for these cold months.
Please read our newsletter for updates on July events. If you are not a member please email me to add you onto our newsletter, to keep up-to-date on events.
Fees are $25 per person or $50 for two or family. Payee The Darlington Club Inc. BSB 633 000, Account 124527748. Reference Surname and Subs.
The Club opens at 6.30pm every second
Welcome to Glen Forrest Bridge Club
It’s well and truly winter! There is nothing nicer than a lovely a lovely warm fire. Come and enjoy the warmth of our lovely fire and the friendly atmosphere of the club to go with it.
If you have been thinking about learning or brushing up your bridge skills, now is a great time to start. Glen Forrest Bridge club offers a great opportunity, right here in our nearby neighbourhood.
Glen Forrest bridge club is a friendly and supportive club that caters to both experienced players and complete beginners.
Our beginners/improvers session is held on Wednesday mornings 9.30am to 11.30am. People can learn to play from scratch, refresh skills, or just play socially without the pressure of competition. No need to feel shy, everyone is made very welcome.
Regular sessions are held on Monday 1.00pm to 5.00pm, Wednesday 12.30pm to 4.30pm for those people who enjoy the more competitive playing.
The Bridge club is located at the Glenforrest Sports Club in Mc Glew Road. Fees are very modest and include membership of the Sports Club. After the Monday and Wednesday sessions refreshments are available from the Sports Club bar to discuss hands play with whoever wishes to stay for a drink.
Come on you know you want to. We are waiting to meet you.
Phone Ronnie 0419 961 711 check out our website glenforrest.bridgeaustralia.org or pop in 15 minutes early to a session.
Kalamunda Lapidary Club Inc
Significant Grant Win for Kalamunda Lapidary Club
The Kalamunda Lapidary Club has been actively seeking funding to improve its facilities and better support its growing, community-focused membership. In recent years, interest in lapidary has continued to rise, with more people discovering the enjoyment of cutting, polishing, and creating with stones. To meet this increasing demand, the Club has been working toward upgrading its workshop so members can learn and practise their craft in a safe, modern, and well-equipped environment.
This month, the Club is celebrating the award of a significant grant from the Rotary Club of Kalamunda. This funding will be used to refit and modernise the lapidary workshop, creating a safer, more ergonomic, and more efficient space for members. The refurbishment will help ensure the Club can continue offering high-quality learning opportunities for many years to come.
The Rotary Club of Kalamunda’s generous support plays a vital role in enabling this project. Their contribution ensures members have access to a modern, well- equipped workshop, and the Kalamunda Lapidary Club extends its sincere thanks for their ongoing commitment to local creativity and community organisations. The Rotary Club’s funding program remains a cornerstone of support for volunteer-run groups, helping to enrich community life and strengthen local connections.
This month the Club is holding a fossicking road trip to the Mid-West region, 18th to the 25th of June. We’ll provide more details on this event in next month’s issue of the Darlington Review, along with photos of the fantastic rocks found by our adventurous club members.
Looking ahead, the Club is preparing for its annual Open Day the 12th and 13th of September, which is held at our clubrooms 3 Recreation Drive, Kalamunda. This event offers visitors the chance to browse and purchase handcrafted items made by members, including jewellery, polished stones, ornaments, and unique gifts. It also provides an opportunity to visit our workshop, meet the makers, and learn more about the many skills taught at the Club.
Club Opening Hours: Tuesday 1pm-4pm (Silversmithing - members only) Wednesday 12pm-4pm
Thursday 7pm-10pm Saturday 10am-2pm
For further information, please contact the club at klc165@outlook.com
Newburn Accounting & Tax
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While we are proudly Hills based, our clientele ranges from the Swan Valley to the wheatbelt.
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admin@newburn.ch
email Bridie@newburn.ch
Ph. 0475 467 534 PO Box 25 Darlington WA 6070
We take care of the numbers , allowing you to take care of your business.
Calling for Volunteers
Active Ageing Network
The Active Ageing Network at the Hub of the Hills, is a volunteer group who plan activities such as weekly Coffee Mornings. They’re seeking new volunteer members to help organise events that support seniors in the community.
Tech Help Volunteers
We’re seeking tech-savvy volunteers to help older residents with devices like phones, tablets and laptops. Gadgets & Gizmos tech-help sessions run Tuesdays from 9.30am to 11.30am.
Hub of the Hills is funded and supported by Shire of Mundaring The Hub hosts a variety of weekly activities including Coffee Morning, Seniors Drop-in Session, Bolivia and Craft Group. For details, or to join the Active Ageing Network or volunteer as a tech helper, contact Rachael on 9290 6683 or cso4@mundaring.wa.gov.au
Mundaring | Midland Junction Arts Centre
Mundaring Arts Centre | 7190 Great Eastern Hwy (corner Nichol Street) 9295 3991 | mundaringartscentre.com.au Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat & Sun 11am - 3pm | closed Mon & Public Holidays
Winter at MAC Inc. is the perfect time to explore, create and connect with a vibrant program of exhibitions, school holiday workshops and events on offer across the two venues. Families looking for creative activities this July are invited to discover theatre performance, classes and thought-provoking showcases for all ages.
At Mundaring Arts Centre view the latest exhibition exploring creativity as a transformative everyday practice, join arts educator, Anne Farrell of the Pencil Case Art Studio, for two playful children’s workshops, and celebrate community connection at the free Shire of Mundaring Expo.
Creating Space I SICK AF Collective | Until 23 August
Led by curiosity and shaped by lived experience, Creating Space reveals how making art can become an act of survival, defiance and self-care. Step into a space where creative practice holds pain, power and possibility - where healing isn't a metaphor, it's a method.
Entries Now Open – 2026 Photography Competition, Time, Framed
MAC Inc., Mundaring Camera Club and the Shire of Mundaring invite amateur photographers to draw on still life concepts and submit works that explore the passing of time through ideas of mortality, abundance, fragility and decay. Visit the website to learn more and apply.
Hanging Mobile Workshop
10am - 1pm, Thursday 9 July | Suitable for 5-14 years
Connecting Community, Stronger Together Expo 9.30am - 12pm, Tuesday 14 July | Free
Woven Jellyfish Workshop 10am - 1pm, Thursday 16 July
Suitable for 8-16 years
Visit our website or scan the QR code for workshop and public program details and to book. mundaringartscentre.com.au
Midland Junction Arts Centre | 276 Great Eastern Hwy (corner Cale St) 9250 8062 | midlandjunctionartscentre.com.au Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat & Sun 11am - 3pm | closed Mon & Public Holidays
This month MJAC presents two exhibitions, a solo exploration by Yamaji/ Ngarlurna artist, Nicole Dickerson and the annual City of Swan HyperVision showcase, celebrating the artistic talent of young artists across the region.
Families are invited to explore the significance of the stars through storytelling, imagination and creativity in Djinda Kaatijin an engaging performance from Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company and take part in creative workshops across the school holidays.
HyperVision 2026: Journey 11 July – 9 August
Presented in partnership with the City of Swan's Hyperfest Youth Team, HyperVision showcases artworks by young WA artists aged 12–25 as they respond to the theme Journey.
My Time, My Connection | Nicole Dickerson 11 July – 9 August
Taking the next step in a generational story, Dickerson shares the places of her childhood – the country and coastline of
Djinda Kaatijin Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company
Connection
Yamaji Country – continuing her exploration of family, cultural inheritance and memory.
Djinda Kaatijin | Presented By Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company
Embroidery Hoop Wall Art | Esther Hort 10am – 1pm, Wednesday 15 July | 8 – 12 years
Charcoal Portraits For Teens | Rachelle Dusting 11am – 12.30pm, Tuesday 14 July
Visit our website or scan the QR code for a full list of creative workshops and public program details and to book. midlandjunctionartscentre.com.au
(Left): Hanging Mobile Workshop. Image courtesy of The Pencil Case Art Studio. (Right): Amanda Alderson, Making, 2024. Photo by Brad Coleman.
Nicole Dickerson, My Son, Our
(detail), 2026, acrylic on canvas. Image courtesy of Yamaji Arts.
Forrest Darlings CWA
The exciting news for the community and for Forrest Darlings is that our branch was the proud recipient of this year’s CWA of WA's $10,000 Community Project Grant. The grant was announced and presented at this year's CWA Conference and AGM on Tuesday 16th June 2026, to Forrest Darlings delegate Heather.
Our Community Project is a modified sea container that will be put into the Darlington Community Garden (DCG). We have
About your CWA Forrest Darlings Branch
Forrest Darlings is a friendly branch of the Country Womens Association which meets monthly at Darlington Pavilion. Guests and non members always welcome. Our focus is shared between crafts, community and catering.
The Darlington tennis club welcomes new players of all levels to come and join in our sessions. We have three night-time sessions each week, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, all from 7.00 pm and a day session on Friday mornings 9.00 am to 11.00 am.
Monday is for competitive players and Tuesday and Wednesday is a more social format, Wednesday being very social.
The Tuesday night competition is looking for extra regular players, so if you feel you can commit, please contact Nat Welsh 0478 842 918.
Friday mornings offer mainly singles games and doubles games opportunities depending on the numbers attending. Please contact the relevant captains for more information.
Monday evening: Paula Wood 0430 022 047
Tuesday evening: Nat Welsh 0478 842 918
Wednesday evening: Brendon Thompson 0427 250 566
Friday morning: Janis Balodis 0400 916 667
been fundraising and working on this project for a number of years. The proposed sea container will be utilised by both groups. Forrest Darlings has no storage to house our equipment and the 70-piece Vintage Tea Set which we hire to community members and groups. The DCG itself would also value more storage to house equipment. In combination with DCG, in the future we would also like to set up a seed and equipment lending library. Beautification of the container itself and its surroundings are also on the agenda. We have been gifted the container, the Shire of Mundaring has given us permission for the installation and now we have the grant funding to pay for the site works for the container to go ahead.
We thank the board of the CWA of WA who selected us and we also thank everyone that has supported the Forrest Darlings CWA Branch with our fundraising efforts, buying baked goods at the Darlington Arts Festival, raffle tickets, supporting our soup sale at the Bonfire night and more. Watch this space as our community project goes full steam ahead with this grant!
Stitch for Frocktober
Don’t forget: Entries are still open for Stitch for Frocktober, our creative frock making fundraising event that will culminate in an exhibition of entries and judging in October. Registration details: https://tally.so/r/RG0JpJ
Next meeting:
Wednesday July 15 2026 at 7pm, Darlington Pavilion.
For more info follow Forrest Darlings CWA on Facebook or call Treasurer Jen Woods 0417 173 478.
Darlington Tennis Club
The club also has adult pennants teams if you wish to play at that level and the teams are managed by Lee Oliver, lolivers@ live.com.au
Eric’s Tennis Coaching: Eric’s Tennis is a highly popular and well-regarded part of our club, offering a fantastic way to get involved in the sport.
Sessions are available for all skill levels, including:
• Preschool classes
• Junior development groups
• Competitive squad training
If you’re interested in joining, please register your expression of interest using the link below: https://www.darlingtontennisclub.org.au/coaching
Milly Pachota runs private coaching sessions if you want to brush up on your skills, Milly Pachota 0417 040 413
Information can also be found on the Darlington Tennis Club website: darlingtontennisclub.org.au
Winter time activities
It’s been a busy time in May and June, with winter being a great time to be getting outdoors, and all sections have been on different challenging adventures out in nature.
Joeys have had some bad luck with wild weather, with a planned hike and a bonfire night being postponed, but they will happen next term, and meantime they have been learning new skills like safe fire lighting and how to pack for hikes.
Cubs have continued with their campfire and pioneering construction skills, and survived an awesome 11km hike in the John Forrest National Park.
Darlington Scouts are open to boys and girls, comprising four sections:
Joey Scouts (age 5-8) Mondays
Cub Scouts (age 8-11) Wednesdays
Scouts (age 11-14) Thursdays
Venturer Scouts (age 14-18) Fridays
Rovers (age 18-25) Mondays
Venturers participated in Rotto Splash in collaboration with Rottnest Island Authority, with environmental leanings through ranger-led waste collection activities and biking or snorkelling challenges. And in a change of scene, many of the section also dressed up and danced the night away at the annual Venturer Ball, held at AQWA.
Joey Scouts ages 5-8
Cub Scouts ages 8-11
Scouts ages 11-14
Venturer Scouts ages 14-18
Rover Scouts ages 18-25
Adult Volunteers ages 18+
Rovers, as a new section, hosted their first public event and fundraiser; an 80’s themed Trivia Night, with over 100 people competing for prizes and bragging rights!
The sections usually meet at the Kathleen Skipsey Hall on Glen Road, Darlington, in a lovely bush setting on the creek line, with a fire pit and ample opportunity for getting amongst nature.
The Scouts meet weekly during school terms, and there are often extended weekend and school holidays camps, hikes and other activities on offer. If you have a child that may be interested in coming along, you can have a trial few visits before making a commitment. We do ask parents to take turns in helping with activities, and this may be at their weekly session, or it may be helping with a camp or other weekend activity.
Scan the QR code here to make in inquiry, find information on our website www.darlingtonscouts.com, find our Facebook page, or email membership@darlingtonscouts.com
Instagram @DarlingtonVenturers and @DarlingtonRovers
Shire of Mundaring Libraries
Library book club vacancies
If you have been wanting to join a book club, now is a great time! There are vacancies in library book clubs at both Boya and Mundaring libraries. Book clubs meet monthly at the libraries on various days and times. A fee of $30 per year per person applies which covers the books you will be reading and discussion notes. If you are interested in joining, or would like further details, please contact:
• Boya Library on 9290 6755 or email gills@mundaring.wa.gov.au
• Mundaring Library on 9290 6780 or email mills@mundaring.wa.gov.au
Children’s regular programs take a break
Story and Rhyme Time sessions, Lego Club and Minecraft Club will take a break for the holidays from Monday 6 July. Programs will resume for Term 3 from Tuesday 21 July. Check the Events section on the Shire of Mundaring website for details about events and programs.
Connecting Community, Growing Together Expo
Tuesday 14 July, 9.30am-12pm, Mundaring Arena
Upcoming events
Visible Mending Boya Community Centre, Monday 10am-1pm
This workshop for adults will show you how to give your clothes a new lease on life and reduce the amount of clothing going to landfill. Places are $20 each. Bookings essential at https://events.humanitix.com/200726b
Let’s Talk Toilet Training
Boya Library, Thursday 23 July, 5pm-7pm
For parents of children aged 18 months to four years. This workshop offers gentle guidance, practical ideas, and plenty of encouragement to help you support your child 18 months to four years as they grow their confidence in the bathroom. The best time to begin toilet learning is when your child is ready to learn. Bookings are essential for this free event at https://events. humanitix.com/230726b. Places are limited.
Creating Black Cockatoo Friendly Suburbs
with Dr Christine Groom
Boya Community Centre, Monday 27 July, 6pm-7.30pm
Join us at this fun, familyfriendly event with activities for all ages! Chat with a host of services that support families, children, and youth in the Shire of Mundaring. Make sure you stop by the libraries’ booth and say “hi”! Find out more and register to attend at https://bit.ly/ccstgr26 or by scanning the QR code in the image.
Little Library is Back in Sculpture Park
Thank you to Mundaring Men’s Shed for building a new Little Library for Sculpture Park. We are grateful to have the little library back thanks to the generosity of Martin and the Men’s Shed. A little library has been a feature of the park since 2018. It’s had a revamp and looks great! Library staff will continue to look after and restock the little library with a range of books. Check it out next time you visit Sculpture Park.
Pictured is Martin and the youngest member of the men's shed Caden, installing the library together.
Join us to hear Dr Groom discuss her visually engaging and practical book designed to help individuals and communities to enhance urban biodiversity and create habitats that support Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos. Bookings essential at https://events.humanitix. com/270726b
Colin Barnett in Conversation
Boya Community Centre, Thursday 30 July, 6pm-7.30pm
Terri-Anne White will interview Colin Barnett about his new book Out West: Big State, Small Town in which he reflects on leadership, power and economic development in Australia’s big state, small town. Out West is a work grounded in a deep sense of place, a story of a vast state with small-town roots, and the challenges and responsibilities that come with governing at the edge of the nation. Bookings are essential at https://events.humanitix.com/300726b.
Need Help with your Tax?
ATO Tax Help will be available at Boya Library on Wednesdays from 22 July to 28 October. The ATO’s free community Tax Help program can help you lodge your return. If you earn $70,000 or less and have simple tax affairs you may be eligible for this free service. Contact Boya Library on 9290 6755 or email gills@mundaring.wa.gov.au to check your eligibility and to book an appointment.
Stay connected with what’s happening in the Hills
Sign up to Shire of Mundaring newsletters to receive local stories, events and news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up by scanning the QR code or at https://mailchi.mp/mundaring/general-newsletter-sign-up-form
Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides
The Dibbler Guides have been busy learning and refining blanket stitching while sewing covers for their sit upons (a cover to sit on when outdoors). The girls enjoy practicing their sewing skills and are getting quite good at it!
We got creative on Newspaper night, using newspapers to play team games and even a fashion show!
This month has been campfire time, with the guides enjoying getting together to cook marshmallows. We also enjoyed singing songs and cooking smores on the coals.
Another guiding tradition for this month was looking through promise and law activities in the Up Up and away booklet. Its designed to help guides explore the promise and law while developing personal values, self belief and community skills.
We welcome new girls aged from 7-12 years. We meet at Kathleen Skipsey Hall – on Glen Road, Darlington on Tuesdays from 6pm to 7.30pm during the school term. If you have any queries regarding Darlington Dibbler Girl Guides please contact Karen P on 0405 401 501 or enquire at Girl Guides WA.
Mundaring and Hills Historical Society
Stoneville Hall
In the early 1900s, orchards and small farms became established in the hills, with timber harvesting and quarrying increasing the local population.
Stoneville was named in 1905 after Sir Edward Albert Stone, who served as the Chief Justice of Western Australia. The name was specifically chosen by early local residents who were developing the district for fruit growing and needed an official railway siding for their timber and agricultural produce.
The Stoneville railway siding first appeared as a timber camp siding on the railway line running between Parkerville and Mount Helena (historically known as Lion Mill). It was established by locals, including timber and railway contractors Adams and Dowie.
The Stoneville Progress Association was formed in August 1925 and it’s first project was to construct a hall and later a tennis court. William Adams, owner of Lot 52 Riley Road, donated two roods or ½ an acre (2023 square metres) of this lot to the newly formed Stoneville Progress Association. Residents raised funds from parties, socials and other activities, as well as receiving donations. Like the Parkerville Hall, the hall was built by local working bees directed by Charles Ayres. The hall opened on 20th April 1929 and was a 20 feet (6 metres) x 40 feet (12 metres) building with a rear kitchen.
The hall became the social centre of Stoneville with regularly held socials, Christmas parties, children’s fancy dress balls and card evenings. Methodist and Anglican services were held every month.
A local school began in 1905 and used various sites for classes. By 1936 the local population had increased to 82 so the need
to build a new school became more pressing. The Stoneville Hall operated as a classroom from 7th August 1944 to 19th December 1952. After the school closed in the Stoneville Hall most of the children travelled by bus to Mount Helena. In 1956, a Youth Education Program commenced at the hall and continued until 1959.
As the years passed, maintenance costs on the old building rose and the land and the building were transferred to the Shire of Mundaring on 4th June 1982. In 1983 a decision was made by the Shire to sell the property, and it passed into private ownership.
The Stoneville Hall still stands proudly today on Riley Road in Stoneville, displaying the Stoneville Hall sign over the front door. The tennis courts have been demolished.
Ref: Ian Elliot- Mundaring A History of the Shire
Rob Borsje- A History of Parkerville & Stoneville
MHHS Archives
Baha'i Community of Mundaring
Darlington Christian Fellowship | cnr
After reading a profound little book called Humility by the minister and theologian of yesteryear, Andrew Murray, I decided to make an investigation into that quality which we find so magnetic in those who possess it. Needless to say my investigation continues, but my discoveries thus far have been as one who, seeking a morsel of bread, was invited into a royal feast to then be seated next to the King Himself. What follows are a few crumbs from that table.
Knowing the definition and outward expression of this deeply spiritual virtue can be helpful in some ways, but this knowledge is not sufficient for the gaining of its functional reality in one’s own life. It seems a misconception to believe that the pursuit of humility is striving to behave and think humbly. Those who have tried can attest to its formidable difficulty, only to be rewarded with the realisation that you desire recognition for your efforts at selflessness. It is altogether a counterintuitive method.
If the humility of Jesus Christ is the standard to which we aspire to live, then by its very nature its presence is invisible to the consciousness of those who possess it, for it abhors even the idea of its own awareness.
Consider the Holy Trinity as an example. They have all been
and Allestree Rds, Darlington
perfectly glorious and holy since before forever, having dwelt in a state of unified love, delight, and glorification toward One Another. Such a glorious relationship shows us a kind of humility which is neither self conscious nor anxious, nor a thing which pursues itself to attain a sense of personally achieved virtuosity.
It is a gift of grace that may be cultivated through the deep abiding delight in the truly humble Son of Man, Jesus Christ. The reward is beholding the blessedness, the inexpressible rightness of the reality that in many ways, our lives are most blessed when we seek the greatest possible wellbeing of others.
Emma Davis
Email: contact us at darlingtonchristianfellowship.com.au Find us on Facebook at Darlington Christian Fellowship W: darlingtonchristianfellowship.com.au
Come and enjoy the MOSH unisex salon experience and receive your uniquely customised colour with our highly experienced colour specialists. MOSH use the best quality ammonia-free hair colour. This results in 100% grey coverage adding strength and beautiful shine to your hair. An Official OLAPLEX Salon A fantastic repair treatment like no other! Add to your service for stronger, healthier hair and longer lasting colour. From $55 Bookings available via our website www.moshorganic.com.au or call 08 9299 6791 1 Owen Road, Darlington (next door to Earnshaws Real Estate) Plenty of parking right in front of the salon.
St Cuthbert's Anglican Church | cnr Darlington and Hillsden Roads,
The Rev’d Peregrin Campbell-Osgood
Priest-in-charge, Parish of Darlington-Bellevue
Email: priest@hillsanglicans.com
Find us on Facebook at Hills Anglicans
Website: www.hillsanglicans.com
Parish Office: 6292 0074
Email: info@hillsanglicans.com
Mail: PO Box 77 Darlington, WA 6070
Services: 9am Sunday
Godly Play: Every second Sunday
St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church
cnr Darlington Rd and Hillsden Rd, Darlington
GATHERING, LEARNING SHARING FOR 100 YEARS AT ST CUTHBERT’S
We have a very special event this month:
‘Another DAy with De Ath – this time it’s person A l’ sAtur DAy 1 August, 1pm – 5pm.
In our previous Death Day we explored traditional theologies and understandings of death and existence ‘beyond the grave’. Everyone is welcome to this workshop as we continue our exploration of this universal experience by looking at traditional Christian and contemporary wisdom to help us live, die and experience the mystery beyond.
We welcome Cara Walker from Walker Family Funerals who will present Rethinking Funerals - Modern, Affordable, and Sustainable Funeral Planning and discuss modern and contemporary options for all aspects of death planning, funerals and memorials, showing us options most people are unaware of.
This will be a day full of sharing and insights, so please come along and join us. RSVP and more information: info@hillsanglicans.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1E96MnwgqZ
We continue with our regular opportunities to unfold in the Divine through Gathering (Sunday services, Mainly Music and Agape Meals) and Entering Stillness (Meditation and Taize) See below for details, and, of course, you are all invited to join us for everything!
mainly music - tuesdays in school terms, 9.30am - 11am in the parish Centre. The Mainly Music team is ready to welcome you and your children to Mainly Music for the second term of 2026. It’s a time of singing and movement, followed by morning tea and free play. It takes place in the Parish Centre. For your first visit, you’re welcome to just ‘show up’. Once you are coming regularly, we ask for a donation of $5 per child or $8 per family. We hope that you will join us for music, movement and a delicious morning tea.
meditation: unfolding in the Divine Experience connection and unfoldment in the divine through easily learnt meditation process (centring prayer). No experience is required and this space is open to people, of any faith or none. Tuesdays, 6pm and Fridays, 10am during school terms apart from special events.
worship in the style of taize, sunday 5 July, 6.30pm
Our regular Taizé services offer us a chance to be spiritually enriched through chant, meditation and scripture in our candlelit church. This service is an important part of the spiritual life of the parish, and we cannot recommend it highly enough. In our service we are joining with thousands of groups across the world inspired by the spiritual impetus arising out of Taizé in France. Taizé, offered every first Sunday at 6.30pm, offers an opportunity to experience the Mystery beyond the names and labels we use for the Divine.
Agape meal, Friday 10 July, 6.30pm
Agapes are relaxed, informal gatherings where we break bread and share life over a simple liturgy. There is always a different set of folk, several from outside the parish, which is great. We share life, connection to the Divine and of course, amazing food. They are a great way of getting to know each other. Every second Friday of the Month in the Parish Centre, 6.30pm, the next one is Friday 10 July. This is open to everyone. Please rsvp if possible to info@hillsanglicans.com
TATANIA’S
GARDENING: Pruning, weeding, mulching, whipper snipping, gutters cleaned, yard tidy up etc. Phone Geoff 0409 088 936.
CARPENTRY & HOME MAINTENANCE: Widely experienced and insured carpenter available for many tasks including installing doors, architraves & skirtings etc, wood floor repairs, plasterboard work, flatpack assembly & installation and much more. Phone Ken Fox: 0418 903 355.
Got A Long ‘To Do’ List but no time to get it done?I can help with all handyman tasks including repairs, painting, maintenance and garden work. Prompt, reliable service right here in Darlington.
Call Franco today for a free quote: 0449 081 098.
$10 for four lines (40 words max). Special $5 rate for students. It’s easy: Email your classified by the 20th of the month to:
treasurer@darlingtonreview.com.au AND deposit $10 (BSB 633 000 Acc No: 158788273). Use your name and date of email as reference.
Darlington History Group
Darlington History Group - Guest Speaker Evenings Return This Spring
While our Guest Speaker Evenings are taking a short winter break, we look forward to welcoming everyone back in Spring for another season of fascinating local history talks. Keep warm over the winter months, but be sure to mark your diaries for our upcoming presentations:
Wednesday 9th September – Bruce Callow Darlington Heritage House Architecture
An exploration of the unique architectural character of Darlington’s historic homes and the stories behind them.
Wednesday 14th October – Jeff Murray: The Making of
Lost Wetlands
Reimagining Perth’s
Perth was once home to an extensive network of wetlands that played an important role in the lives of both the Noongar people and early settlers. Many of these wetlands have disappeared beneath the modern city, and their stories have largely been forgotten.
Talks commence at 7.30pm. A gold coin donation is appreciated, and light refreshments will be provided following the presentation. We look forward to seeing you at the Darlington Hall for another engaging season of local history and heritage.
Picture Frames Wanted for Fundraising
We are looking for picture frames with glass, with internal dimensions ranging from approximately 15 cm × 20 cm up to 30 cm × 40 cm, to help support our fundraising efforts for the upcoming Darlington Arts Festival.
Unfortunately, due to storage and handling limitations, we are no longer able to accept bric-a-brac donations. However, we would be very grateful for any suitable picture frames that you may no longer need.
We are happy to collect frames from your door. If you have any to donate, please contact Christine on 0490 793 015 to arrange a convenient pick-up.
Thank you for your support.
Remembering a Dedicated Historian and Heritage Advocate - Ian Elliot
Darlington History Group was saddened to hear of the passing of local historian, author and heritage professional Ian Elliot.
Ian made a significant contribution to the recording and preservation of local history in Western Australia. Through his research, writing and dedication to heritage, he helped ensure that the stories of our communities were documented and shared for future generations.
He is perhaps best remembered for his landmark publications on local history, including his work on Moondyne Joe: The Man and the Myth and Mundaring: A history of the Shire, which remains an invaluable resource for researchers, historians and the wider community.
Ian’s passion for history and commitment to preserving our shared heritage will leave a lasting legacy.
Our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
Rest in peace, Ian Elliot (1943–2026).
Mundaring: A History of the Shire, originally published in 1983, by Ian Elliot.
Darlington Theatre Players at Marloo Theatre
Marloo Morphs Into The Sunset Strip
As the Winter months kick in, Marloo Theatre is set to heat up with its latest production of ‘Rock of Ages’ set to bring the noise to the hills! A talented cast and crew have been working tirelessly in bringing this high octane rock show to the stage for the Darlington Theatre Players. Director Terence
Smith has returned to Marloo, after the success of 2024’s ‘Young Frankenstein’ which took out Runner Up Musical at the Finley Community Theatre Awards.
“I loved everything about it here” (at Marloo) Smith said. “It’s a beautiful community theatre in which to be involved and you feel supported here” he continued. “Marloo Theatre to me, is the essence of community theatre – a group of people coming together to work hard, have fun and put on an incredible show” he concluded.
“Rock of Ages is pure escapism – leave your daily stresses at the door, let your hair down and get ready to rock back to the 80s! It’s going to be a great night and a theatre experience that you won’t want to miss!” Smith promised.
‘Rock of Ages' follows Sherri, a small town girl with big dreams, as she lands with stars in her eyes on the Sunset Strip. There, she meets Drew, a bartender at The Bourbon Room and with dreams of stardom to match. “You can expect big laughs and rock n’ roll hits you’ll be singing for weeks” Smith said. “The show is definitely geared towards an older audience, so best to leave the kids at home” he continued.
The show features some of the biggest 80’s rock anthem hits and, being a jukebox musical, it will be songs everyone is familiar with. “I’ve wanted to direct this show for a few years now and felt it had been enough of a break for Perth audiences to want to see it again” Smith said. “The script is what drew me in; it’s hilarious and full of big bold characters that allows a large ensemble to be involved” he continued. A loud, brash rock musical is something that will feel right at home on Marloo’s expansive stage as the Bourbon Room comes to life.
So, grab your rock crew, book the babysitter and bring your energy to Marloo Theatre this July as the Darlington Theatre Players present ‘Rock of Ages’. Audiences are encouraged to dress to the rock theme for every show, so dig out those leather pants and dust off the chokers as you step into The Bourbon Room for a wild night at the theatre!
Darlington Theatre Players are grateful for the ongoing support of the Shire of Mundaring and Lotterywest in bringing high quality theatre to Darlington and the Shire of Mundaring.
‘Rock of Ages’
Recommended for Audiences 18+ due to Adult Themes, Language and Sexual References
Photos: Chris McRae and Ellien van Heerwaarden (shot on Location at Hemingway and Co., Mundaring).
BUILDING MATHS CONFIDENCE HELENA COLLEGE
As students move through Years 4, 5 and 6, they are increasingly encouraged to explore mathematical concepts in greater depth, make connections between ideas and explain the reasoning behind their thinking.
As learning becomes more sophisticated, students are often presented with challenges that stretch their understanding and encourage them to think in new ways. While this can sometimes feel uncomfortable, meaningful learning often occurs when students move beyond what they already know.
At Helena College, challenge is viewed as an essential part of the learning process. Rather than avoiding difficulty, students are encouraged to approach unfamiliar problems with curiosity, persistence and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
“We want students to understand that mathematics is not simply about arriving at an answer. It is about reasoning, exploring different approaches and developing confidence as learners.’
~ Peter Coombs, Principal
In the classroom, this may involve students discussing strategies with their peers, justifying their thinking, investigating patterns or applying mathematical concepts to real-world situations. These experiences help students develop a deeper understanding of maths and recognise that there is often more than one pathway to a solution.
Parents can support mathematical thinking at home by:
• Encouraging children to share their thinking and explain their ideas
• Viewing mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth
• Supporting perseverance when tasks feel challenging
• Helping children make connections between Mathematics and everyday life
• Celebrating curiosity, effort and progress as well as achievement
• Encouraging children to have a go, even when they are unsure of the answer
Some children can become hesitant to engage with Mathematics if they believe they are ‘not good at maths’ or worry about making mistakes. Parents can play an important role by helping children understand that learning often involves uncertainty and challenge. Encouraging children to attempt unfamiliar problems, ask questions and persist when solutions are not immediately obvious can help build confidence over time.
As students learn to tackle challenges, test different strategies and persist through uncertainty, they build confidence in their ability to learn. These habits support not only success in Mathematics, but also the curiosity, resilience and independence that underpin lifelong learning.
DISCOVER PURPOSEFUL LEARNING
Helena College is now inviting expressions of interest for enrolling in Years 4, 5 and 6 in 2027 and beyond. Scan the QR code to register your interest today. For more information, please email enrolments@helena.wa.edu.au
Treetops | A Montessori and International Baccalaureate School
Treetops 2025 Annual Report
Now Available
2025 was a year for Treetops to renew, build, and consolidate our school foundations. As we marked the second year of our revised five-year Strategic Plan (2024–2028), the Board, School Executive and staff focused on transforming our strategic goals into measurable outcomes. This latest Annual Report provides a ‘window into Treetops’, with an overview of our school and students, academic approach, workforce, income and expenditure, and Calendar of Events, as we advanced Treetops across our five strategic pillars in 2025.
The Treetops 2025 Annual Report is now live on the Treetops website!
Celebrating Performing Arts Night 2026
This year’s Performing Arts Night was distinctively ‘Treetops’. It’s hard to explain if you haven’t attended one before, but this year’s PAN was a beautiful example of the Treetops spirit! The pieces, from tiny Children’s House students performing to the student band, voice groups, class dances, circus act, Taiko drumming, drama piece and more, were polished and entertaining... but warm and joyful. PAN Producer, Treetops Music Teacher Kate Lowe, summed it up… “The energy backstage was electric, excited and just supportive.
Not competitive, but truly wishing each student incredible support for their performances”. The result is an amazing show for the Treetops School community! We are very excited to share photos of the night with the wider community here in the Darlington Review and via our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Darlington Primary School
It’s Kindy Time
Darlington Primary School Kindergarten offers an excellent foundation for children’s educational journey and personal development.
Children learn through play and the Darlington PS Kindergarten program will enable your child to participate in play-based learning experiences that fosters creativity and curiosity, encouraging children to explore and discover the world around them.
The Kindy program is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework and is monitored through the National Quality Standard. It provides the opportunity to learn through play but also provides a structured environment where children can begin to develop essential social skills by interacting with their peers, learning to share, cooperate, and resolve conflict.
In addition, the program helps children to build critical cognitive skills, including early literacy and numeracy, laying the groundwork for future academic success. The school uses the University of Florida Literacy Institute’s Phonics program (UFLI) and Top Ten resources to build underpinning concepts for Literacy and Mathematics.
Under the guidance and care of our experienced, highly trained early childhood teachers, our Kindergarten program offers a safe and caring environment in which your child can build confidence in their abilities, extend their skills, and have fun while learning.
One of our teachers, Mrs Barrow, has been at the school for the last 23 years. She has now taught many students, some of whom have returned to enrol their own child into the Darlington Primary School Kindergarten program.
With a few Kindergarten places still available for 2027, contact our friendly administration team on 9257 4000 for any questions or visit https://www.darlingtonps.wa.edu.au/ enrolment.html to join our fabulous school community. Priority is given to families who reside in the Darlington catchment area. Enrolments for next year close on Friday 24 July.
• Crowns, veneers, bridges, implants, full & partial dentures
• Crowns, veneers, bridges, implants, full & partial dentures
• Crowns, veneers, bridges, implants, full & partial dentures
• Providing dental care for the whole family in a leafy, relaxed setting
• Providing dental care for the whole family in a leafy, relaxed setting
• Providing dental care for the whole family in a leafy, relaxed setting
Parkerville Steiner College
New Science Building and Arts Hub Opens at Parkerville Steiner College
Parkerville Steiner College has celebrated the opening of its newest building, marking a significant milestone in the continued growth and development of the College.
As Parkerville Steiner College continues its planned expansion, the new building strengthens the School's capacity to deliver a rich and balanced secondary education that integrates academic learning, practical skills and creative development.
The new science laboratories provide students with opportunities to engage deeply with scientific inquiry through observation, experimentation and practical investigation.
The lower level Arts Hub provides dedicated spaces for Music and Drama, enabling students to rehearse, collaborate, perform and develop their creative capacities in purpose-designed environments.
Head of Campus Hayley Spracklen said the building represents an important investment in both the present and future of the College.
"As our High School grows, it is important that our facilities
grow alongside it. These new learning spaces allow us to provide students with greater opportunities to engage in practical, academic and creative learning, remaining true to the educational principles that underpin Steiner education."
"The building has been thoughtfully designed to support the needs of our students and teachers, creating spaces that encourage curiosity, creativity, collaboration and meaningful learning."
The opening of the new facility reflects Parkerville Steiner College's ongoing commitment to providing a contemporary Steiner education and ensuring students have access to learning environments that support their development as capable, creative and socially responsible young people.
With the addition of Year 11 in 2026 and Year 12 in 2027, the College continues to build towards a complete secondary pathway, allowing students to undertake their entire high school journey on one campus.
Friends of Darlington Station Reserve (FODS)
The Joy of the First Flowers of the Wildflower Season
Here they are - very little explanation necessary:
Left: Hovea Pungens - Devils Pins. Always the first flowers in spring on the reserve where they self-seed. Once you have them in your garden, you will always have them. Right: Hibbertia Hypericoides Local beauty known as Yellow Buttercups; so prevalent in our area. Sometimes hard to buy.
As you pass through the reserve you will notice that there has been a huge push to get plants in the ground, particularly grasses. We would like to thank Robyn Rudeforth for propagating these grasses for us and Sue Lennard for' Containers for Change' funding also; we depend on our friends. And then it rained! The FODSGODS listened to us.
To continue my description of the memorial plants, located where the track divides at the western end of the reserve parking area we have grevilleas dedicated to Liz Dumont and Gail Gregson who baked for our post-work morning teas for such a long time and were such a support that they now have plants
with plaques to remind us; we called you our CATERINGFODS. Thank you both so much.
And so to Gill's regular 'FODSJOBS' which tell us all we will be 'finishing planting remaining seedlings, continuing to clear storm and summer debris, staking and bagging recently planted seedlings, clearing and raking paths.' We work quite hard and so are always looking for new volunteers. It's such a fun thing to be involved in - come and visit us in July when we work on Sunday 5th and 19th of July from 8 am to 10 am followed by morning tea.
Contact Jane for further information on 0477 987 048.
Left: The beautiful kangaroo grass, Themeda Triandra. Right: Photo taken by resident photographer, Oscar after a morning planting these Grasses.
Greetings from the Darlington Community Garden in the season of Makuru and mother nature has blessed us with some precious rain after a rather long warm, dry spell.
With the Darlington Open Gardens day announced for Sunday 11 October, 2026, we are feeling as though the relatives are coming and the house needs a good-going-over. Which brings us to our long held dream of a timber decking surround for the wagon. A feat which, in spite of planning and permissions being sorted, quotes received, grant applications submitted and scaling down to fit the budget, we have not been able to pull off. Even if we had won a grant, we would already be facing a budget blowout due to skyrocketing materials costs. This has forced us to consider more achievable design solutions. Kate Herren, along with our garden Landscape Designer, Kylie Brinfield and Project Manager, David Grant, have been seeking advice and costings for alternatives, so watch this space.
We have also just heard that our application to the WA Government Let’s Grow Grant was successful. This means a massive boost to Pine Terrace Garden, which has been largely community/DCG funded to date. The plan is to add another 50 trees around the DCG and Pine Terrace. It also means a bucket load of aged wood chip mulch is coming our way, which we swear by for transforming the clay pan.
The rock moving at the rear of the arbor and wagon last month, in preparation for the Wetlands Observation Deck, gave rise to a couple of new exciting projects. One is a spiral herb garden to be filled with an array of asian aromatics and edibles, including ginger, turmeric, lemongrass and possibly water chestnuts! The other project is a native rock garden/retaining wall, which we hope will support some delicate natives such as Leschenaultia and Stylidiums. Inclusion suggestions are welcome, as is assistance in bringing it to life. We are also expecting other mini projects to be initiated including new trees for the food forest.
Winter School Holidays are nearly here and that means Nature Play Day at the garden! The next one is scheduled for Thursday 9th of July. Tickets will be available through Humantix. Please contact Amy@darlingtoncommunitygarden.org.au, if you can support activities on the day. It is always a blast for young and old.
Longtime DCG friend and volunteer, Alison Atkinson, is hosting a new regular social gathering, to be held on the 4th Sunday of each month at 5pm. The next one is scheduled for Sunday, July 26th, which just happens to be the International Day of Friendship! Join Alison and friends in the garden, around the campfire. BYO food, drink and instruments.
On a final note, the to-do list of the garden normally outweighs the number of hands available to tick all the boxes, especially during this period of economic pressure on households. The help we seek goes beyond hands-on gardening, to such pursuits as constructing equipment, sourcing materials and needed items and turning salvaged materials into functional pieces and/or works of art. Please don’t be shy if you see something in the garden that has you imagining how you would transform it. Until next time, enjoy the puddles!
www.darlingtoncommunitygarden.org.au/join-us-1
Friends of Glen Park
Olive trees as woody weeds
Olive trees (Olea europaea) are considered a serious bushland weed in Western Australia. If they are not removed, they become a dense thicket of trees that inhibit the growth of native species. This popular garden plant, grown for its fruit and drought tolerance, has become a weed in our bushland. Birds have adapted to eat the fruit, and the seed is easily spread to local reserves and national parks.
Olive trees thrive in our climate, and when they reproduce, they are outcompeting our native species that belong here. They are oil-rich, which also makes them a major bushfire hazard. When they are planted near reserves and national parks, they become
a problem. In South Australia, olive trees have become such a problem, they are now a declared weed.
The Urban Bushland Council in WA say that olive trees have become a ‘significant problem’ in our bushland. Friends of Glen Park pull out olive tree seedlings every year, after a huge tree was poisoned a few years ago. On either side of the Heritage Trail between Glen Road and Mofflin Avenue, you can see dozens of olive trees.
If you are thinking about planting an olive tree on your property, the advice, think twice.
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