To better understand what is means to be ‘a local’ our suburb profile seeks to understand the local stories Koora (past)
Boordawan (future) and respond to Ngalang Maya (our place)
This snapshot identifies the unique character of Balga’s neighbourhood and helps the City rethink how we deliver services with a local focus
from the Aboriginal word for an indigenous tree
was originally used for market gardens and poultry farms
before large-scale development of Balga began in the late 1950s
the name Balga is derived from the Aboriginal word for the indigenous grass tree Xanthorrhoea
The Balga locality was originally part of a grant given to T
Walters in 1840 and was used primarily for market gardens and poultry farms
the State Housing Commission resumed land at Balga to form part of the Mirrabooka satellite city
Westminster and the northern portion of Dianella
Mirrabooka was to become a regional centre containing 16,000 houses
as well as civic and recreational facilities including childcare
and it was envisaged the Balga population of workers would commute to and from Mirrabooka and the northern industrial areas
Although the Mirrabooka project was never completed
the State Housing Commission gradually developed land at Balga
These are the top local priorities you've told us about what's important for Balga:
The City has created Locally-led Stirling to drive deeper connection at a local suburb level to listen and respond with a local focus
At the heart of this Locally-led approach is an understanding that local people know what they need and a vision for everyone to get involved in shaping what it means to be “a local”
Balga streets began to be laid out in 1959 with the majority of housing constructed between 1964 and 1970 the area is largely characterised by single-storey residential dwellings with lot sizes averaging 700 m2
Most dwellings in Balga are made of brick and tile
there are some examples of grouped dwellings and flats throughout the suburb
Balga contains 26 local open spaces and six district open spaces made up of parks and recreational reserves
The largest is Princess Wallington Reserve
Offering a broad range of recreational facilities
its central location provides an important focal point for the Balga community
Fletching Climping Reserve is also identified as a Local Significant Natural Area
such as Heritage Park and Celebration Park
Balga also contains two local shopping centres
both of which provide a range of retail services to fulfil local needs:
Several primary schools, as well as Balga Senior High School and the North Metropolitan TAFE, serve education requirements in Balga. Established in 1972, the Balga campus of TAFE provides a diverse range of part-time and full-time studies with courses ranging from business studies and hairdressing to carpentry and plumbing.
City of Stirling kaadatj Nyoongar moort Nyoongar boodja-k Wadjak boodja-k
Ngalak kaadatj Nyoongar nedingar wer birdiya koora koora wer yeyi
malayin wer nakolak baalap yang ngalany-al
Ngalak dandjoo barn wer kaaratj bandang boodja-k
The City of Stirling acknowledges the traditional custodians of this land
and pays respect to the Elders both past and present for they hold the memories
the culture and hopes of Aboriginal Australia
as the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale starts work on a new carpark for visitors to Kitty’s Gorge
Gooralong Carpark on Atkins Street is being constructed to address concerns about overflow car parking by visitors to the top trail destination
which has been causing damage to Serpentine National Park
To offset the removal of trees to make way for construction
the shire has worked with the WA departments of Water and Environmental Regulation
Conservation and Attractions to develop a comprehensive salvage plan
One of the biggest hurdles is relocating the grass trees (Xanthorrhoea
or balga in Noongar) which are well-known to be fickle when experiencing transplant shock
This is due in part to their sensitive root systems and the mycorrhizal fungi networks that intertwine with the root systems to help this plant survive
For successful transplants extra care needs to be taken to ensure a good amount of original soil is transplanted – holes are dug twice as wide as the root ball
and transplants often take place during the cooler months
All transplantable grass trees located in the Gooralong Carpark project area will be used for future landscaping projects
steps to prevent disturbance to a small number of black cockatoos in the project area were taken by engaging a qualified zoologist to conduct inspections of potential nesting trees
To support future breeding of the endangered birds
the shire is installing nesting boxes in the nearby conservation reserve with assistance from the local Landcare SJ group
Gooralong Carpark has been designed by the shire to minimise potential impacts to native vegetation
with a qualified arborist identifying trees that were in a fit state to be retained within landscaped areas of the carpark
Shire President Rob Coales said it was good news that the construction of a carpark could have a number of positive environmental outcomes
“Local residents have long raised concerns about damage being done to Serpentine National Park due to an influx of visitors to Kitty’s Gorge,” he said
“Obviously we want to encourage visitors to the shire
so the construction of this carpark is important for Jarrahdale’s development as a trail destination
“It’s great news that salvaged trees will be used for future shire landscaping projects including Jarrahdale Heritage Park and Brickwood Reserve
with the rest being donated to Grass Trees Australia for use outside the shire
“We’re extremely proud of the natural beauty we have here at the shire
the fact that we’ve worked in partnership with experts to create a space for visitors to park safely
while preserving as many native trees as possible
The Gooralong Carpark project is funded through an $8 million Australian Government investment in the Peel Regional Trails project through the Priority Community Infrastructure Program
Work on the Gooralong Carpark is now underway
with traffic management in place for the duration of the project which is scheduled to finish by the end of May
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Stirling Community Centres - Balga 81 Camberwell Rd
Get directions
balgaautumnclub85@gmail.com
0447 453 561
The Balga Autumn Club hosts a range of weekly activities for seniors in the area:
Morning tea and lunch is also held in between activities
Contact the club for more information on membership and activity prices
Students and apprentices in Perth's northern suburbs will start training in new state-of-the-art facilities in Balga from Term 1
thanks to a $51.1 million State Government investment in new infrastructure
The Balga campus is a hub of building and construction training
and has undergone significant redevelopment
with the new Construction Skills Innovation Hub replacing 22 rundown transportable classrooms
The redevelopment includes two new buildings
which will provide apprentices with world-class training in future building and construction skills
students with foundational skills and new migrants with training in English
The centrepiece of the new upgrades is a 1,140 square metre
which is one of the first of its kind in the country
The ground floor's flexible design provides digitally enabled training space that connects to a large open workspace
which can be adapted to support emerging construction technologies
The workshop will provide an estimated 750 trades apprentices annually with a future-focused training space where they can learn trades theory and develop their practical skills in real time through hands-on applications
It also includes a simulated energy-saving smart home training facility
outfitted with new and emerging technologies adopted by the construction industry
giving electrical apprentices opportunities to build skills in digital light and home automation integration so they are job-ready to join this growing industry
Alongside the Future Trades Workshop is a new three-storey multipurpose building
which provides a welcoming entry to the campus and includes a new Student Resource Centre and Learning Hub
a client services centre and student and staff amenities
The Student Resource Centre and Learning Hub has been tailored to meet the training needs of a future-focused building and construction trades campus
It is outfitted with a simulated kitchen with automated cabinet hardware and a light gauge steel framing construction
which showcases a variety of building products - giving students an opportunity to familiarise themselves with what they will encounter in the industry
The new multipurpose building will also be home to the Balga Jobs and Skills Centre
which has friendly and professional staff on hand to provide free one-on-one advice to jobseekers and people keen to upskill or retrain for local employment opportunities
Designed by Perth architecture studio Hassell and built by local company EMCO Building
the capital works project supported more than 930 jobs
including providing on-the-job experience for more than 95 apprentices and trainees
The new Construction Skills Innovation Hub is part of the State Government's record $250 million investment in new and upgraded infrastructure at WA TAFE colleges under the Rebuilding our TAFEs plan
It is the final capital works project - of a total of 15 - delivered at TAFE campuses throughout Western Australia since 2021
the State Government has successfully delivered significant infrastructure upgrades at 22 TAFE campuses right across WA to provide modern
Read the full media statement here
Don't include any personal information.If you need a response, send an enquiry instead
The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land
We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present
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Voters are set to deliver the worst ever swing away from the WA Labor Party at Saturday’s state election
but the overall result will still likely be the second or third best in the party’s history
Two opinion polls published Friday suggest the Liberals will claw back between 12.2 and 13 per cent of the two-party vote statewide
which would net them the return of 11 seats in the lower house
Premier Roger Cook and Liberal leader Libby Mettam
Premier Roger Cook has consistently said he expects to lose seats this election and Labor insiders say they are bracing for a loss of 12 to 18 seats
Labor will pop the bubbly if it’s closer to 12 while the Liberals and Nationals will be reaching for the top shelf if they get close to 18 seats
Those polls will not reflect a uniform swing across individual seats on the night of course and when you drill into it there are plenty of interesting battles that will take place
Here are the ones to watch.
Join us tomorrow for our special state election live blog where we’ll bring you the news as it happens
A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged with a string of offences after taking police on a high-speed chase through several suburbs in Perth’s east
the man allegedly drove his Holden Commodore at speeds over 155 kilometres per hour from Gosnells to Beckenham
He failed to stop for police on Tonkin Highway in Forrestfield
allegedly continuing to drive recklessly on various streets and through the emergency lanes on main roads to overtake other vehicles
He was followed by Police Air Wing before crossing onto the wrong side of the road and crashing with a white Volkswagen Golf hatchback
The male driver of the Golf hatchback and his female passenger were not injured
The 22-year-old from Byford was apprehended at the scene of the crash
He appeared in the Armadale Magistrates Court today charged with reckless driving at a speed of 155 kilometres per hour or more to escape pursuit by police
failing to comply with a direction to stop
no authority to drive and possessing cocaine
Former Nationals MP James Hayward — who was serving almost three years in jail for child sex abuse until his conviction was quashed — has lambasted state prosecutors after the charges against him were dropped ahead of his retrial
Former Nationals MP James Hayward speaks to media outside Perth District Court on Friday.Credit: Jesinta Burton
The former upper house MP was sentenced to two years and nine months jail in August 2023 after being convicted of two counts of indecently dealing with an eight-year-old child between 2019 and 2021
But he was released on bail in January after having his convictions set aside and his request for a retrial granted by the Court of Appeal
after prosecutor Sean Stocks revealed the state would no longer be pursuing the charges over concerns about the complainant’s wellbeing
Hayward expressed gratitude for his family’s unwavering support after what he described as a “nightmare” that had left them traumatised
accusing state prosecutors of “recklessly” pursuing the case against him despite its deficiencies
He acknowledged that while he had been legally vindicated
it would be “difficult to shake” four years of headlines — and described the prosecution’s claim the case was dropped for the sake of the child as a “final kick in the guts”
“It has taken 1195 days for me to walk away a free and innocent man
410 of those days spent in prison,” he said
I just want to enjoy my life as a free man without this terrible
Read the full story here.
The Western Force’s new travel schedule has been given an early thumbs up as the team attempts to follow their Canberra heroics with a win on Waratahs territory
the Force ended their 15-game losing streak on the road when they upset the Brumbies 45-42
Brendon Paenga-Amosa will start for the Force as they seek another win in the east
It was the Force’s first win in Canberra for an incredible 5060 days
and marked the first time they had started a season with two consecutive wins
Last week’s 28-24 loss to the Reds in Perth - in which the Force kicked the ball away in the dying minutes in a decision that allowed Queensland to score the winning try - brought them back to earth
But after analysing that loss and putting it behind them
the Force have set their sights on taking down the Waratahs at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Saturday night
Force coach Simon Cron believes the team’s new travel schedule has them better positioned for success on the road this season
Wallabies lock Jeremy Williams (concussion) has been named to return against his former side in a major boost for the Force
Outside-centre Sio Tomkinson also returns from concussion
while former Waratahs flanker Will Harris has earned a spot in the starting side after some impressive displays from the bench
Party leaders have expended their final stock of ammunition in last ditch pitches to the public
Premier Roger Cook was spruiking his Made in WA plan at Unique Metal Works in Wangara while Libby Mettam was in the battleground seat of Kingsley at the pre-poll centre in Warwick
We’ve made sure that we’ve had a comprehensive package in policy and a plan to put to the people of Western Australia
continuing to grow our cost of living measures
a massive investment in our healthcare system,” Cook said
the Liberal Party have shown that they’re not up to the job of being in government in Western Australia
Mettam highlighted Labor’s track record in health and lashed the party’s spending priorities
There will be no vanity projects,” she said
“After eight years of WA Labor our state’s health system is on life support
a record number of families are living in poverty
more families are experiencing mortgage or rental stress
and there is more crime on our streets and in our homes
“Roger Cook is asking Western Australians to consider his government’s experience and vote Labor
what he’s really asking you to do is vote for four more years of the same.”
To the premier’s press conference this morning
and he has admitted he did not know his Labor MP Dr Jags Krishnan owned a stake in Key Largo Medical Centre
WAtoday revealed on Thursday that Krishnan owned a 10 per cent stake in Key Largo and one of its directors is his business partner in several other medical practices
Last year Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson publicly pleaded with the Key Largo to meet the family of Sandipan which was rejected
When asked whether he knew about Krishnan’s involvement with the practice Cook said he didn’t but defended his MP
“My understanding is that Dr Jags has a share with a family trust
and that family trust is a very small shareholder in that particular facility
I don’t think he’s got any sort of operational role to be able to be engaged in that,” he said
“I don’t have the details in relation to his relationship
“Dr Jags is a great representative for the people of Riverton
and is an important member of my WA Labor team.”
We turn now to some breaking news from inside the District Court
where former Nationals MP James Hayward has just had the charges against him sensationally dropped ahead of his retrial
The upper house MP had been sentenced to two years and nine months jail in 2023 after being convicted of two counts of indecently dealing with an eight-year-old child between 2019 and 2021
Former MP James Hayward (right) and his lawyer Gerald Yin entering court on Friday
But the 56-year-old was released on bail in January after having his convictions set aside and his request for a retrial granted by the Court of Appeal
it was revealed state prosecutors would no longer be pursuing the charges against him
The state prosecutor told the court police had opted against continuing the case after consulting with the family of the alleged victim
who would be compelled to reinterview ahead of a retrial
The ex-MP for the South West has been vying to return to parliament since the convictions which rendered him ineligible for higher office were overturned
He resigned from the WA Nationals after being suspended when the charges were laid in December 2021
but continued serving as an independent until he was convicted
He has since been stripped of his rights as a former member of parliament - including his right to access Parliament House
Liberal leader Libby Mettam has fought tooth and nail in an unwinnable state election
But her reward may be betrayal if her party fails to significantly erode Labor’s 53 of 59 seat stranglehold on Western Australia’s lower house in Saturday’s poll
following its unprecedented landslide victory in 2021
the more time she has as opposition leader in the next term
and to gain traction,” political analyst and Notre Dame University executive dean Martin Drum told AAP
Libby Mettam and Basil Zempilas at the WA Liberal Party Campaign launch.Credit: Colin Murty
Many Liberals view the party’s candidate for Churchlands – high-profile Perth media personality and the city’s lord mayor Basil Zempilas – as a future leader if he wins the seat Labor presently holds on to by the slimmest of margins
“Most people concede it’s impossible for (Mettam) to win and she’s got someone breathing over her shoulder,” Drum said
Two opinion polls published on Friday point to gains for the Liberals
A Demos AU survey of 1126 people predicts a 57-43 two-party preferred vote
with a 13 per cent swing against Labor that could put up to 11 seats in reach of the Liberals
Newspoll similarly predicts Liberal gains of up to 11 seats
with its polling showing a 57.5 to 42.5 two-party-preferred Labor lead from a 12.2 per cent swing
Women from multiple industries in WA have been added to the state’s Women’s Hall of Fame in a ceremony at the Government House Ballroom last night
Inductees were selected from one of eight categories for a range of achievements
including becoming the first Aboriginal woman to complete a law degree
excelling in the Paralympics and hosting international art exhibitions
The women inducted into the Hall of Fame last night
WA Governor Chris Dawson and Minister for Women’s Interests Sue Ellery were there to celebrate the 16 women
and to honour the four women added posthumously to the ‘Roll of Honour’
Established in 2011 in recognition of the centenary of International Women’s Day
2025 marks the 15th anniversary of the event
Organisers have said it cements a resolve to “continue to tell the stories of women’s significant contributions to our community
You can view a full list of inductees, and see more about their achievements, here.
Voters are set to deliver the worst ever swing away from the WA Labor Party at Saturday\\u2019s state election
but the overall result will still likely be the second or third best in the party\\u2019s history
Labor will pop the bubbly if it\\u2019s closer to 12 while the Liberals and Nationals will be reaching for the top shelf if they get close to 18 seats
Join us tomorrow for our special state election live blog where we\\u2019ll bring you the news as it happens
A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged with a string of offences after taking police on a high-speed chase through several suburbs in Perth\\u2019s east
Former Nationals MP James Hayward \\u2014 who was serving almost three years in jail for child sex abuse until his conviction was quashed \\u2014 has lambasted state prosecutors after the charges against him were dropped ahead of his retrial
after prosecutor Sean Stocks revealed the state would no longer be pursuing the charges over concerns about the complainant\\u2019s wellbeing
Hayward expressed gratitude for his family\\u2019s unwavering support after what he described as a \\u201Cnightmare\\u201D that had left them traumatised
accusing state prosecutors of \\u201Crecklessly\\u201D pursuing the case against him despite its deficiencies
it would be \\u201Cdifficult to shake\\u201D four years of headlines \\u2014 and described the prosecution\\u2019s claim the case was dropped for the sake of the child as a \\u201Cfinal kick in the guts\\u201D
\\u201CIt has taken 1195 days for me to walk away a free and innocent man
410 of those days spent in prison,\\u201D he said
The Western Force\\u2019s new travel schedule has been given an early thumbs up as the team attempts to follow their Canberra heroics with a win on Waratahs territory
It was the Force\\u2019s first win in Canberra for an incredible 5060 days
Last week\\u2019s 28-24 loss to the Reds in Perth - in which the Force kicked the ball away in the dying minutes in a decision that allowed Queensland to score the winning try - brought them back to earth
Force coach Simon Cron believes the team\\u2019s new travel schedule has them better positioned for success on the road this season
\\u201CWe\\u2019ve worked hard in this campaign
We\\u2019ve made sure that we\\u2019ve had a comprehensive package in policy and a plan to put to the people of Western Australia
a massive investment in our healthcare system,\\u201D Cook said
the Liberal Party have shown that they\\u2019re not up to the job of being in government in Western Australia
Mettam highlighted Labor\\u2019s track record in health and lashed the party\\u2019s spending priorities
There will be no vanity projects,\\u201D she said
\\u201CAfter eight years of WA Labor our state\\u2019s health system is on life support
\\u201CRoger Cook is asking Western Australians to consider his government\\u2019s experience and vote Labor
what he\\u2019s really asking you to do is vote for four more years of the same.\\u201D
To the premier\\u2019s press conference this morning
One-year-old Sandipan Dhar\\u2019s death from the blood cancer on March 24 sent shockwaves through the state after
and one of its directors is his business partner in several other medical practices
When asked whether he knew about Krishnan\\u2019s involvement with the practice Cook said he didn\\u2019t but defended his MP
\\u201CMy understanding is that Dr Jags has a share with a family trust
I don\\u2019t think he\\u2019s got any sort of operational role to be able to be engaged in that,\\u201D he said
\\u201CI don\\u2019t have the details in relation to his relationship
\\u201CDr Jags is a great representative for the people of Riverton
and is an important member of my WA Labor team.\\u201D
But her reward may be betrayal if her party fails to significantly erode Labor\\u2019s 53 of 59 seat stranglehold on Western Australia\\u2019s lower house in Saturday\\u2019s poll
and to gain traction,\\u201D political analyst and Notre Dame University executive dean Martin Drum told AAP
the knives will be out pretty soon.\\u201D
Many Liberals view the party\\u2019s candidate for Churchlands \\u2013 high-profile Perth media personality and the city\\u2019s lord mayor Basil Zempilas \\u2013 as a future leader if he wins the seat Labor presently holds on to by the slimmest of margins
\\u201CMost people concede it\\u2019s impossible for (Mettam) to win and she\\u2019s got someone breathing over her shoulder,\\u201D Drum said
Women from multiple industries in WA have been added to the state\\u2019s Women\\u2019s Hall of Fame in a ceremony at the Government House Ballroom last night
WA Governor Chris Dawson and Minister for Women\\u2019s Interests Sue Ellery were there to celebrate the 16 women
and to honour the four women added posthumously to the \\u2018Roll of Honour\\u2019
Established in 2011 in recognition of the centenary of International Women\\u2019s Day
Organisers have said it cements a resolve to \\u201Ccontinue to tell the stories of women\\u2019s significant contributions to our community
26 August 2024The City of Stirling is proud to announce the completion of a vibrant mural at Balga Plaza
The City of Stirling is proud to announce the completion of a vibrant mural at Balga Plaza
history and diversity of the Balga community
The new artwork was commissioned by the City as part of a broader initiative to revitalise the local centre though beautification and increased amenity
The mural complements the State Government-funded verge upgrade next to the centre along Princess Road and Balga Avenue
Artists Lawry Halden and Rubeun Yorkshire collaborated on this impactful artwork
The joyful concept draws inspiration from Rubeun’s love for the Balga community as a long-time local and proud Nyoongar man
Commissioned under the City’s Public Art Masterplan
the mural is a colourful tapestry that weaves together the many stories of Balga
reflecting the strength and unity of the community
The City of Stirling invites all residents and visitors to Balga Plaza to experience this beautiful piece of art and celebrate the stories and history it represents
The mural not only enhances the visual appeal of the area but also serves as a reminder of the community’s shared heritage and vibrant spirit
To learn more about what’s happening in your local area, visit www.stirling.wa.gov.au/suburbs or learn more about the City’s public and visual art collection at www.stirling.wa.gov.au/art-collection
It can provide a lifetime of safe water-based activities with family and friends
we believe that learning to swim is essential to everyday life in WA
it is vital that both children and adults can swim confidently and safely
Lessons are available at all three City of Stirling aquatic facilities:
Stirling Leisure Learn to Swim Program is an ongoing program
offering one lesson per week and full pool access for the enrolled student at their centre
The ongoing program allows us to tailor the program to the student’s needs while maintaining a high standard of instruction
Our lessons follow the Royal Life Saving Society WA program for school aged children and our teachers are committed to the student’s development
Enrol now
Learn to Swim will not run on WA recognised Public Holidays
Learn to Swim will take a three-week break from 22 December 2025
with lessons recommencing Monday 12 January 2026
Members can still gain access to the pools over Christmas and New Year as part of their membership
Please view the Learn to Swim Terms and Conditions for information on suspension options throughout the year or view our FAQs for more information
Suspend your Learn to Swim lessons
Cancel your Learn to Swim lessons
Morning classes for parents and babies aged 6 to 36 months to introduce your little one to the joy of swimming
First introduction to swimming lessons with a parent
Penguins -Introduction to Buoyancy and Mobility
View classes and enrol
(30 months to 3 years) *instructor assessment required
For students who have completed Platypus skills and are ready to start preparing for independent lessons
practicing independent skills with parents in the water
Students in this class will transition to Minnows when they turn 3
they can advance to Barracuda upon assessment
Preschool programs are for children from three years old until they turn six years old
confidence and independence in a class without a parent
Children will progress through basic floating and recovery in the Minnows group to being able to swim 10 metres of freestyle in Orca
The basics of rescues and water safety sequences are also taught
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School aged programs are for children who have turned six years old
All our school-age lessons follow the Royal Lifesaving Society’s swimming program
Swimmers will progress through the levels from beginners
Once they have mastered their swimming strokes they will work on more complex rescue skills and initiatives that can lead to them becoming safer around water
Complete beginner will learn how to submerge and recover; float on their front and back confidently; and how to enter and exit the water safely
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The squad program is available to students who have passed Level 9
or have a current enrolment in a Level 9 class working to achieve these skills
Adult programs are for those who are 16 year and older
Do you feel you are missing on family fun at the beach or pool because you have never had the opportunity to learn how to swim
Our classes start from beginners and go through to squad swimmers
View classes and enrol
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For adult swimmers who are confident with their stroke technique
or have completed Adult 4 with Stirling Leisure - Learn to Swim
Adult 5 - Swim Fit is a 'squad style' class
The primary focus of this class is to improve your endurance and proficiency across freestyle
with opportunities to refine butterfly and survival backstroke too
JLC is an ongoing program for students who wish to learn advanced survival skills
safety techniques and develop awareness of community services and emergency procedures
Students can also prepare to go onto other aquatic activities and work towards gaining the Bronze Medallion and move into lifeguarding
View classes and enrol
Beaches and swimming pools are a huge part of the Western Australian lifestyle
Stirling Leisure - Scarborough Beach's iconic beachfront location is the perfect setting for students to learn about controlled and natural open water swimming environments
We believe ensuring your child can swim safely and competently in both environments is vital
Students will be guided through a comprehensive safety brief each week
View Frequently asked questions
Please submit your expression of interest by emailing: programsupervisors@stirling.wa.gov.au with the students
Students must have passed Level 9 OR Adult 2 to be eligible for this program
The City can provide one-on-one lessons for students with disability who cannot safely participate in group sessions
Contact our Learn to Swim team on programsupervisors@stirling.wa.gov.au to complete an information form about the student’s needs
we will work with the parents and swimmers to arrange the right teacher
These lessons are available by appointment only
If you are not sure which level you or your child should be enrolled in
you can sign up for a free assessment and our staff will observe specific skills to help determine which level is the best to enrol in
Swim Fit - Adult Level 5For adult swimmers who are confident with their stroke technique
The primary focus of this class is to improve your endurance and proficiency across freestyle
with opportunities to refine butterfly and survival backstroke too
Peak and Off Peak pricing means we are able to deliver classes at times when the facility is quieter for a cheaper price whilst maintaining our excellent standard of teaching
Peak classes for preschool and school aged classes are slightly smaller in capacity
Peak and off-peak times vary throughout the week and are shown on the tables below
when you enrol the correct rate is automatically applied for you
Even though lifeguards are on duty at public pools
parents still have a crucial role to play in the supervision of children while visiting these facilities
it’s about having both parents and lifeguards working together to keep children safe
Our Learn to Swim program operates Monday to Sunday at all aquatics sites listed above
Available days and times are displayed on the link below
you can also enrol using the same link by following the prompts
See timetable and enrol
As we run an ongoing Learn to Swim program
assessments are ongoing each week by the instructors
The Learn to Swim program will have a formal assessment week every 5 weeks
If a student is ready to progress to the next level prior to a formal assessment week
you will be notified through the online portal
Students progress can be checked via the member portal
View the calendar here
you will receive details regarding your lesson day
Cancellation requests must be received in writing
You have the below options to cancel your membership:
Cancellation requests are required 1 week prior to the next direct debit payment
Clients can continue to use the centre until all prepaid classes have expired
remaining classes will not be credited or refunded
For more information, please view our Learn to Swim Terms and Conditions
The City of Stirling is looking for friendly and dedicated people for casual Learn to Swim positions at Stirling Leisure - Inglewood
If you’re interested in becoming a Swimming Instructor, we’d love to hear from you! Contact programsupervisors@stirling.wa.gov.au for more information
Check to see if you meet the eligibility criteria for a free Swim Teacher course through Royal Life Saving Australia
View full eligibility.
We can help you complete your practical hours and provide training in time for summer
Lessons are not automatically cancelled upon passing a level
When students pass their level, an automated email will be sent with directions to view the certificate via the online portal
Select Courses > Active enrolment > View progress > Download certificate
Please visit the online portal to move to the next level
Select Courses > Active Enrolment > Progress Level > Choose new class
If a suitable day/time is not available when changing levels
we encourage students to continue their current level to keep up their skills until a space in the desired lesson becomes available
For more information, please view our Learn to Swim Terms and Conditions
Each enrolled member is entitled up to two family passes for missed lessons per quarter
The passes allow entry for 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children
These passes must be issued at reception upon your return or within three months of missing the lesson
Students/parents are able to suspend lessons (and lesson fees) for up to 4 weeks per calendar year in any combination of 7-day blocks (i.e
Suspension requests must be received in writing 1 week prior to your planned absence
Suspensions will incur a fee of $5.00 per week to maintain a student’s position in the class
classes may be suspended for up to 4 weeks at no charge
A medical certificate or statutory declaration is required
Medical suspensions will be processed from the date listed on the medical certificate or statutory declaration
We can backdate credits in medical circumstances as long as either a dated medical certificate or statutory declaration is supplied
For more information, please view our Learn to Swim Terms and Conditions.
Our friendly staff will ensure your children
are entertained and well looked after while you enjoy a workout in our gym
go for a swim or attend a group fitness class
All children must be immunised and can attend for a maximum of one hour and 30 minutes
Crèche is included in our facility memberships, for more information visit our membership page.
Stirling Leisure - Balga has onsite crèche facilities. Find out more about opening hours, cost and booking information below.
Bookings are essential, please contact the centre on (08) 9205 7347 to make your booking with a creche officer, bookings are made 1 week in advance.
If you intend to cancel your session, please allow at least two hours prior to your booked session commencing or before 8.00am on the day of your booking.
Stirling Leisure - Inglewood has onsite crèche facilities. Find out more about opening hours, cost and booking information below.
Bookings are essential, please contact the centre on (08) 9205 7728 to make your booking with a creche officer, bookings are made 1 week in advance.
Stirling Leisure - Scarborough has onsite crèche facilities. Enjoy a workout while your child, aged 8 weeks to 5 years is cared for. All children must be immunised and can attend for a maximum of one hour and 30 minutes.
As of Monday 5 May 2025, the crèche will have new opening hours.
Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8.30am - 11.30am.
Bookings are essential, please contact the centre on 0457 797 190 or (08) 9205 7493 to make your booking with a crèche officer, bookings are made 1 week in advance.
If you intend to cancel your session, please allow at least two hours prior to your booked session commencing or before 8.00am on the day of your booking.
Crèche is available for children eight weeks to five years and is included in all memberships.
Our aim is to provide a safe, caring and stimulating environment for the children of patrons using the centre facilities. To help us achieve our aims, and ensure a high standard of care and security is provided, we ask you to observe the following guidelines.
Click on the profile below for more information
Mayor Mark IrwinMark was first elected as a Councillor of the Coastal Ward in 2015
He was elected as Mayor by his fellow Councillors in October 2017 and was re-elected as the City's first popularly elected Mayor in 2019
Deputy Mayor Suzanne MigdaleSuzanne has been a serving Councillor for the Lawley Ward since 2017
Councillor Andrea CreadoAndrea has been a serving Councillor for the Balga Ward since 2021
Councillor Michael DudekMichael has been a serving Councillor for the Balga Ward since December 2022
Councillor Tony KrsticevicTony has been a serving Councillor for the Coastal Ward since 2021
Councillor Rob PapardeRob has been a serving Councillor for the Coastal Ward since November 2023
Councillor Elizabeth ReElizabeth has been a serving Councillor for the Doubleview Ward since 2005
Councillor Stephanie Proud JPStephanie has been a serving Councillor for the Doubleview Ward since 2007
Councillor Chris HattonChris has been a serving Councillor for the Hamersley Ward since 2019
Councillor Karlo PerkovKarlo has been a serving Councillor for the Hamersley Ward since 2017
Councillor Damien GiudiciDamien has been a serving Councillor for the Inglewood Ward since November 2023
Councillor David LaganDavid has been a serving Councillor for the Inglewood Ward since 2011
Councillor Joe FerranteJoe has been a serving Councillor for the Lawley Ward since 2011
Councillor Lisa ThorntonLisa has been a serving Councillor for the Osborne Ward since 2019
Councillor Teresa OlowTeresa has been a serving Councillor for the Osborne Ward since 2021
We are committed to providing spaces and places for people to participate in a range of activities to enhance physical health and well-being
group fitness and crèche facilities across 4 locations
Join our facilities which offer a range of facilities and programs within a supportive community
Group fitness classes are available at Stirling Leisure – Inglewood
Each centre offers a range of classes suitable for all fitness levels and ages
view your preferred centre below and see the range of classes includes Aqua Fitness
For smooth running of group fitness classes please follow the below conditions of entry:
Group Fitness classes are subject to availability and timetables are subject to change without notice
Stirling SeniorsJoin our fantastic community of over 50's in group fitness workouts across Stirling Leisure
Each session is different and focuses on improving mobility
All classes are available on our great value memberships
Click your preferred centres timetable above to view the class times
supportive and fun environment for teens to exercise
With reduced fees and school-friendly session times
it’s the perfect way to improve fitness and experience a gym environment under the supervision of a personal trainer
This program only runs at Stirling Leisure - Inglewood
No casual payments will be accepted or make-up sessions provided
Our next course will be commencing on 5 May 2025
enrol now or complete the form below for more information
Enrol now
The Pregnancy Wellness program at Stirling Leisure - Inglewood is unique. Pregnancy Wellness is a five-week program that includes one Pre-Natal Aqua Fitness class, one Pre-Natal Yoga class per week and access to the pool facilities for the duration of the course.
Pregnancy Wellness will focus on maintaining cardiovascular fitness and strength during pregnancy, pelvic floor health, mobility, and mindfulness and is open to all stages of pregnancy.
Our next course starts on Tuesday 6 May 2025.
Our weekly Pre-natal aqua class is available to members or on a casual basis for $20 per class. The class runs every Tuesday at 6.30pm. If you have any questions about the course or to enrol complete the form below.
Wherever you are on your health and fitness journey, a personal trainer can take your training to the next level. Using the latest exercise techniques, our personal trainers will make sure you stay on track to achieve your goals.
Qualified personal trainers are available at Stirling Leisure - Inglewood, Balga and Scarborough. Personal trainers will motivate you to achieve your fitness goals whether they are strength and conditioning, fitness, weight loss or training for a specific event. Sessions are available one on one or in small groups.
Looking to submit a personal training enquiry?
Are you looking for another way to supercharge your workout to achieve your health and fitness goals? Personal training is a great way to accelerate your results.
Stirling Leisure offers three modern gymnasium facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and services suitable for everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes at Scarborough, Inglewood and Balga.
We are excited to announce that a brand new suite of cardio equipment has been installed at Stirling Leisure - Balga and Scarborough. The equipment has been upgraded to Matrix performance Treadmills, Ellipticals, bikes and Climbmills.
Stirling Leisure - Inglewood has also received new strength equipment. The new equipment includes a half rack, plate loaded glute drive, hip glute pin loaded machine and new fixed barbells and dumbbells.
Complimentary fitness appraisals are included with all our memberships. This includes checking Blood Pressure, BMI and Body Fat percentage and an individualised exercise program written by your personal trainer. Bookings are essential. Phone the centre of your choice below to book:
Balga is a unique gym facility offering a fantastic supportive community environment and state of the art equipment. The gym comprises of Matrix performance Cardio equipment, including the ClimbMill and performance Treadmills and Hammer Strength and Life Fitness strength equipment.
Balga also features the Functional Strength Studio. The studio is equipped with a range of equipment including a strength training rig, assault bike, Skierg, sled track, rower, battle ropes, kettlebells and more. The large range of 45 minute classes are conducted by experienced personal trainers and will include HIIT and strength based sessions, and with small class sizes you will get results and stay motivated. View the weekly timetable above.
The gym at Scarborough comprises of Matrix Performance Cardio equipment, including the ClimbMill and performance treadmills and large range of Matrix Strength equipment including machine and freeweights. There is abundance of bumper weight plates, kettlebells and more.
The new range of Matrix strength equipment will assist you in reaching all your health and fitness goals. At Scarborough, we pride ourselves on being a friendly, community gym, our staff are available during all opening hours to assist you in reaching your health and fitness goals.
Conveniently located on Alexander Drive in Inglewood, the 500 square metre Gymnasium is fully equipped with a large range of Matrix X7i Cardiovascular equipment including six Performance Plus treadmills to help your reach your running goals. Reach your health and fitness goals with our large range of machines and programs including:
At Stirling Leisure - Inglewood, we pride ourselves on maintaining a high standard of customer service and cleanliness. We offer flexible membership options to get you on your way to achieve your health and fitness goals.
The Stirling Fitness app connnects with the Matrix cardio equipment and is used by members for their gym exercise programs
to scan into the gym and exclusive member deals and challenges
If you would like more information about how Stirling Fitness can keep you on track to reach your goals speak to our gym staff or make an appointment for a complimentary appraisal
Download 'Stirling Fitness' on Google Play or Apple Store and take control of your fitness
Find community social clubs and activities for seniors available within the City of Stirling
Retirees and Senior Citizen’s Clubs operate from most of the City’s community centres
They provide a meeting place for our older people who wish to participate in social
educational and recreational activities (various membership and activity fees may apply)
Email balgaautumnclub85@gmail.com
Email regnhugh1@gmail.com
Email magnum426@bigpond.com
Email roslynwingate@hotmail.com
Email nolachromiak47@gmail.com
Email breen@iinet.net.au
Email northbeach.seniors.club@outlook.com
Email nollamaraautumn@iprimus.com.au
Email scarboroughseniors@hotmail.com
There are a range of Seniors Fitness classes on offer at the City's Leisure Centres
Stirling Leisure - Balga and Scarborough Leisure Centre offer Stirling Seniors classes on a variety of days
The low impact fitness classes are designed for over-fifties and promote function movements
Visit the group fitness page and select your preferred centre for class times
All classes are included in the flexible monthly memberships
There is also a 15% discount for eligible senior card holders
Visit the membership and entry fee page for more information
Residents of all ages are encouraged to join us at Stirling Community Centres - Bob Daniel - Inglewood to enjoy some classic board games
It’s a great way to meet new people and all you need to do is bring your own games
The club meets on the third Saturday of the month from 3.00pm
If you are interested in arts and crafts, want to meet new people, we hold craft groups in four different locations:
There's no need to book - bring your own craft to work on and enjoy some time with like minded people
For more information and to check current group times
There are a range of community activites that occur across the City
Please visit the events calendar to see what's happening in your local area
Lions Australia is Australia’s largest service club with more than 1,200 clubs in Australia and Papua New Guinea
family and neighbours who share a core belief: community is what we make it
For more information or to find your local club please visit the Lions website
National Seniors is a non-for-profit membership organisation and advocacy group providing a strong national voice for older Australians: both working and retired
For more information and to find your nearest branch please visit National Seniors - get involved.
Active seniors join Probus Clubs for intellectual stimulation from listening to informed speakers going on outings and joining together with other members for fellowship
Clubs also arrange a wide variety of outings and events
For more information or to find your nearest Club, please visit Probus in Western Australia.
Western Australia’s Rotarians are individuals who seek to serve the local and world community by utilising their skills and experience
helping to meet local social and practical needs
For more information or to find your nearest Club, please visit Rotary in Western Australia
U3A Perth is an organisation for people aged over 50 who are interested in learning in a happy social network
For more information, or to find your local U3A please visit University of the Third Age
Stirling Community Men's ShedThe Stirling Community Men’s Shed enables members to take part in woodwork projects
socialise with others and raise awareness of men’s health issues in a safe
Members craft various items from recycled or donated timber
Funds raised through the sale of these items are invested back into the Shed to ensure that the facility remains a vibrant and valuable space for its members
Members also have the opportunity to participate in gardening
handcrafts including our unique Men in Stitches program
The Shed focuses on men's social and emotional health and wellbeing and targets residents aged 55 years and over who are semi or fully retired
Women's Shed - ScarboroughLocated as part of the Scarborough Community Hub at 173 Gildercliffe Street
the Women's Shed is a space for women to come together and participate in a range of activities
workshops and programs to build their skills and form social connections
The City is pleased to enter a 12-month pilot project with the Joy of Wood
To find out more about the partnership and what's on offer at the Stirling Women's Shed please visit the Stirling Women's Shed
This page provides information about residential bin collections
including how to find out when your next bin day is
how to request new bins or upgrade your residential waste service and how to report damaged or missing bins
Please note that due to supply chain issues
there is an estimated 4 week delay in requesting new
This matter is beyond the City’s control however we apologise for the inconvenience caused
Once replacement bins and parts are received
we will be working hard to deliver these as soon as possible
Good Friday No bin collections will take place
All collections will occur the following day (Saturday)
Easter Monday and ANZAC Day Bin collections will proceed as usual
Recycling Centre Balcatta Closed on Good Friday
If a collection is scheduled for any of these days
please enter your residential address below
you must use a full address or you can select an address from the drop down field below
This data updates annually based off of property records
if your address is a new home or a sub division
please contact the City where we can assist you in locating your bin day/verge pick up information
To view your bin days in a different format
Week 1 calendar Week 2 calendar
Bin collection checklistTo make sure your bin gets emptied
This matter is beyond the City’s control however we apologise for the inconvenience caused
Once replacement bins and parts are received
The City of Stirling operates a three-bin system where households have access to three different bins:
By working together to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill
we can ensure a more sustainable future for our community
When reporting a bin that has not been emptied
Please check your bin to see if there is a non-collection sticker present
please rectify the issue before completing the form
Please ensure both sides of the street has been collected before reporting
It may take up to 3 working days for the bin to be emptied
If you have forgotten to present your bin on time on multiple occasions
or you have reported it outside of the 24-hour time-frame
there may be a fee of $75 to empty your bin
a separate form will need to be completed for each bin
If your bin isn’t emptied as scheduled, please lodge a residential bin request
Report a missed bin
If your current bin is missing, you can report a missing bin by lodging a residential bin request
Report a missing bin
you can request the City to repair or replace your bin for free
Please place your bin on the verge for a successful collection
and the second truck will repair or replace it
you can continue using it while waiting for repairs or replacement
Report a damaged bin
All properties within the City will be provided the standard package of bins:
If you live in a multi-unit complex of 6 or more units
a request for residential bins must be made by your strata manager
If you are a Homeswest tenant, please arrange for a written request to be submitted by the Department of Housing via the general enquiry and feedback form.
please ensure that you have upgraded your bins first
Cost of additional bins will be added to your rates notice
Please note that all new and additional bins will be delivered to the verge within 10 working days
Request a new bin
Request an additional bin
One red lid (general waste) bin - 140 litre
One yellow lid (recycling) bin - 240 litre
One optional lime green (garden organics) bin - 240 litre
If your current bin isn’t meeting your househould needs
you can request an upgrade of the existing service for an additional fee
While upgrading a green waste bin isn't currently available
Request a bin upgrade
For all other bin requests and enquiries, please contact us via the general enquiry and feedback form
If you are looking for on-demand waste collections, you can learn more about on-demand through our video playlist, or please visit our page here for more information
Lodge other bin request
Sorting your waste correctly means that you’re diverting waste from landfill
and creating a more sustainable future for our community
When our three bin system was rolled out in July 2015, garden organics (GO) bins were only delivered to properties of 400sqm or more. If you do not have a garden organics waste bin and wish to apply for one, please phone our Customer Contact Centre
The City can provide assistance for residents who cannot physically put their bins out on the verge or do not have anyone else to assist them
Use our bin day search function above to check
we might not have reached your area yet due to varying truck rounds
If your bin was out on time and it was missed
you may need to arrange a paid return collection or wait until your next bin day
If you forgot to place your bin out on your bin day or missed the reporting window
you can still arrange a paid return collection
For more information, please submit a general enquiry and feedback form
shares more on this holistic health-focussed ministry to parents and babies:
'The classes give parents a nitty-gritty
reality base rather than the sanitised Instagram version of the early days post-birth,' said Jo Ineson
'We provide professional and specialised information that empowers families to work through each step of the journey from pregnancy to post-birth.'
The classes focus on helping the whole family unit with information about birth interventions
nutrition and relationship changes that may occur with partners and other family members
The child health centre supports a culturally diverse local community with different social expectations
Many new families in the area also face a lack of social connections and loneliness
which is often accentuated by the arrival of a child
'There is no other service like this because we strive to provide a deeper and holistic response geared to community needs,' Jo said
'Because the health service is co-located at the corps
we can connect new families to our other programs that address many other needs.'
Jo noted that they see many transformed lives through their approach
Balga Salvos’ services had supported four generations from one family group
'It is humbling and a privilege to journey with these families,' Jo said
'There isn’t much better than to do life with them and see the positive impact made in their lives.'
Article originally reported for Salvos Online
'Pregnancy classes give birth to holisitic care at Balga Salvos,' written by Cliff Worthing
The Cook Labor Government announced today that students and apprentices in Perth’s northern suburbs will begin training in new state-of-the-art facilities in Balga from Term 1
Premier Roger Cook officially opened the Construction Skills Innovation Hub at the North Metropolitan TAFE in Balga
This new facility is set to benefit more than 5,800 students each year
a central hub for building and construction training
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The new facility will replace 22 outdated transportable classrooms
The executive level of the government visited the TAFE campus on Balga this morning to officially open the new A block building
WA Premier Roger Cook highlighted the importance of expanding the construction workforce to meet housing demands
“Only a Cook Labor Government can be trusted to do what’s right for WA
helping local people secure quality jobs through affordable and industry-relevant TAFE training,” he said
The redevelopment includes two new buildings that will provide students with world-class training in advanced building and construction skills
The Construction Skills Innovation Hub is part of the WA Labor Government’s record $250 million investment in new and upgraded infrastructure at WA TAFE colleges under its Rebuilding Our TAFEs plan
Training and Workforce Development Minister Simone McGurk emphasized the government’s commitment to training facilities
“It is more important than ever that tradies of the future have access to state-of-the-art facilities
where they can gain skills in the latest technologies to become ‘job-ready’ and meet the evolving demands of industry,” she said
the WA Labor Government has delivered significant infrastructure upgrades to 22 TAFE campuses across the state
providing modern and relevant training opportunities
“We are proud to have delivered significant infrastructure upgrades at 22 TAFE campuses across the state since coming to government in 2017,” Mr
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The Perth man responsible for the brutal killing of a woman in Balga in 2016 will spend at least the next 21 years behind bars after being handed a life sentence on Friday
had previously pleaded guilty to the murder of Jasmine Sky Walls
Jasmine Walls was killed in a brutal attack in Balga in November
During sentencing the court was told Keiley
who had only been released from prison a week before the horrific attack
had been on a meth binge prior to being asked to leave the Balga house he had been living in
which included rearranging furniture and hiding knives throughout the property
but before officers could arrive Keiley threw a brick at Ms Walls' head
Keiley then slit Ms Walls' throat from ear to ear with such force her trachea and oesophagus were severed
She died the following day at Royal Perth Hospital
During the attack Keiley fought with police
who were forced to taser the killer in order to subdue him
Justice Joseph McGrath referred to the murder as a "callous
which visited "devastation and misery" on Ms Walls' family
but before officers could arrive Keiley threw a brick at Ms Walls' head
Keiley then slit Ms Walls' throat from ear to ear with such force her trachea and oesophagus were severed
Justice Joseph McGrath referred to the murder as a \\\"callous
which visited \\\"devastation and misery\\\" on Ms Walls' family
The Pulse report, by Hotspotting and Washington Brown, found that locations including Dalby
Woodridge and Bundaberg South are set to be standout performers across Queensland
Carey Park and Geraldton are also highly rated
Washington Brown Director, Tyron Hyde
said the research demonstrated that it was possible to achieve an investment property that ticked every box – high capital growth and above-average rental yields in affordable locations with ultra-low vacancies and rising rents
“Among the most outstanding performers identified by this report are locations where property values have risen notably
but rental yields have increased because there has been an exceptional increase in rents,” Mr Hyde said
“One of the stand-out markets highlighted by this report is the Queensland town of Dalby
the key regional centre for the Western Downs region
while yields have increased to 7.2 per cent
Mr Hyde said there was also growing demand for properties
in Bowen Hills and surrounds due to its close proximity to infrastructure projects and its position in one of the top 30 most liveable cities in the world
“With its population expected to continue growing
the unit market is expanding to accommodate its new residents,” he said
Mr Hyde said the vacancy rate for Bowen Hills was 1.2 per cent and the median unit rent had risen 15 per cent in the past 12 months
with the median rental yield increasing from 6.2 per cent to 6.6 per cent in the past three months
Hotspotting Director, Terry Ryder
said Yorkeys Knob in Cairns had also proved popular
“The median yield has lifted from 6.4 per cent to 6.5 per cent in the past three months and its median unit price has recorded an annual rise of 15 per cent to $340,000,” Mr Ryder said.
“Yorkeys Knob has long been a popular suburb for tenants with some 50 per cent of its residents being renters.
“There are also more units and townhouses than houses in the suburb
which ensures that investors are purchasing dwellings that are the most in demand by the people who want to live there.”
Mr Ryder said unit rents in Woodridge grew 15 per cent in the past year
on the back of a 0.6 per cent vacancy rate
while the median rental yield remained high at 7.1 per cent
“This high rental yield was achieved despite a 24 per cent annual increase in the median unit price to $298,000,” he said.
“Woodridge in the Logan council area of Greater Brisbane is well-located and well-connected and is benefiting from its affordable price points for homebuyers and investors.”
Mr Ryder said Armadale was WA’s best performer
“The Armadale property market has gone from strength to strength over the past year
partly due to strong investor demand as well as affordable buy-in prices,” he said.
“The City of Armadale is also the fourth fastest-growing local government area in WA and the 15th in Australia.
“The population is approximately 91,000 and is expected to grow to 141,000 by 2036.”
had the lowest possible vacancy rate at just 0.1 per cent
prompting the median house rent to rise 22 per cent in the past year
“The median house price has lifted 22 per cent in 12 months to $465,000
but the median rental yield also remains high at 6.4 per cent,” he said.
“One of the major infrastructure projects in Balga is the $47.9 million upgrade of Balga TAFE
which is due for completion at the end of this year.”
Mr Hyde said Carey Park in Bunbury recorded a 23 per cent annual rise in its median house price to $370,000
the median rental yield remained high at 7.0 per cent
thanks to a 15 per cent annual increase in the median house rent
on the back of a 0.6 per cent vacancy rate,” he said.
Bunbury benefits from its strategic location as a key transport hub and gateway to the southwest region of Western Australia.
Bunbury also benefits from the economic influence of the larger metropolitan area.”
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Balga Child Care Director Jo Ineson (left) with Balga Corps Officers Captains Darren and Megan Aitken and the positive-message whiteboard they set up during COVID-19
When COVID-19 hit and shops and services in Western Australia started to close down
Balga Salvation Army found itself in a unique position to increase its support to local families through two essential services – the Balga Early Learning Centre and Child Health Centre
The Salvation Army Balga Early Learning Centre remained open during the COVID-19 pandemic
nestled in the heart of a cluster of suburbs where low income and disadvantage are the ‘norm’ – an ideal location for a low-cost childcare centre
Centre director Jo Ineson said when the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic became apparent earlier this year the team at the wider corps made supporting their community a priority
we have lots of complexities and there are significant barriers for the families [here]
everything we do is based on empowering and equipping our families,” Jo said
“As well as keeping our services open [during the COVID-19 pandemic]
‘how do we maintain our relationships with our families?’”
Corps Officer Captain Megan Aitken came up with a simple idea that proved very effective
A whiteboard was set up at the front of the centre with a ‘Thought of the Day’
which many parents stopped to read and make comment on
I overheard them talking to each other,” said fellow Corps Officer Darren Aitken
‘I look forward every day [to] walking through the door and seeing the new message – it’s just inspiration for the day.”
inspirational messages were enough to put a smile on the faces of most parents
many of whom were dealing with a job loss or a cut in working hours
One mother commented that the whiteboard “provided positive messages
which was the nicest feeling at 7am in the morning!” And another said it “made me smile every day and we talked about the messages.”
Flora says having the Balga Salvation Army Early Learning Centre remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic was a real blessing for her to be able to continue work and feel supported
That small change to the daily ‘drop-off /pick-up’ routine
with parents pausing to read the whiteboard
often allowed Balga team members to go deeper with many of the families
“I think we went through a two-week period where almost every family in the service had a really significant job loss or a really detrimental impact [from COVID-19] and they would come and tell us about it and we were able to walk alongside them,” said Jo
let’s just talk through this and see what we can do – we can keep your children here
we can keep this bit of your life going and normal
Your life might be really difficult at the moment
The corps was able to provide wrap-around support for families through its Doorways service
which was also still operational throughout COVID-19
While this was no different to what would have happened prior to the pandemic
the conversations that led to that wrap-around care weren’t as frequent: “During normal times
a lot of those conversations wouldn’t happen.”
who is the sole income earner in her household
The Salvation Army maintaining a presence was crucial during COVID-19
“During COVID my working hours dropped by over half which meant my wages were drastically reduced,” she said
“This put my family under extreme financial difficulty to the point I had no money to buy food or pay bills
I also have an underlying illness that requires regular hospital visits and treatment
I did not know what I was going to do to feed my family
buy my medication and pay my outstanding bills.”
Through her relationship with the Balga Early Learning Centre
Flora was referred for assistance to Doorways which she said took away “a lot of the big worries.”
“I honestly don’t know how I would have coped without the ELC,” she said
“Reading the whiteboard gave me hope on the worst days.”
While Balga Corps’ ‘Little Things Garden Club’ was placed on hold during COVID-19
families were supported with deliveries of garden packs and at-home activities
Another way Balga Corps was able to support its community during the COVID-19 social-isolation restrictions was through its ‘Little Things Garden Club’
which is a playgroup attached to the corps’ community garden
the corps’ community garden coordinator kept in touch with families almost every week
play-based activities and special Easter and Mothers Day packs
Jo said it’s difficult to put into words the impact of the ministry throughout COVID-19: “It’s hard to describe because we didn’t do anything different to what we normally do every day
but I think it’s just that bedrock of support that we can provide for the community
more interaction with parents and the children
and we have seen God working in miraculous ways.”
© The Salvation Army 2025
Family and friends of a woman found dead in Balga on the weekend said she will remain in their hearts for eternity
Darshika will be missed by her family and loved ones.Credit: Vijith Kudaligama
died on Sunday morning after suffering injuries at her Danehill Way home
said his family was heartbroken over her death
“She was one of the most loyal sisters you could think of," he said
His sister worked as a physical education teacher in Colombo before moving to Perth in 2016 with her husband
“I am getting calls from [her colleagues] and they are shocked," Mr Kudaligama said
"She was a terrific senior instructor and main character in the development of their sports programs.”
Mr Weerakoon said Darshika liked Perth even though she greatly missed her family
Mr Kudaligama said his sister was a well-known athlete in Sri Lanka
“She was small but courageous; always willing to take the lead and could have taken Sri Lanka to new heights in sports
Friend Ruwan Weerakoon said Ms Kudaligama brought her spirit to teaching in Perth
“She always wanted to help when needed," he said
who is organising for Ms Kudaligama's body to be repatriated to Sri Lanka
said the death of his friend was an unbelievable tragedy for “one of the friendliest women he knew”
Ms Kudaligama's brother said the family was hoping her body would be released and repatriated as soon as possible for them to proceed with the funeral
“It is too painful for us to come to Perth to handle this," he said
A neighbour said Ms Kudaligama had a friendly smile that would be fondly missed
Ms Kudaligama's husband has been charged with murder following his wife's death
He was remanded in custody to undergo a psychiatric assessment before facing court again on February 11
\\u201CShe was one of the most loyal sisters you could think of,\\\" he said
\\u201CI\\u2019m really missing my sister now.\\\"
\\u201CI am getting calls from [her colleagues] and they are shocked,\\\" Mr Kudaligama said
\\\"She was a terrific senior instructor and main character in the development of their sports programs.\\u201D
\\u201CShe was small but courageous; always willing to take the lead and could have taken Sri Lanka to new heights in sports
\\u201CShe always wanted to help when needed,\\\" he said
who is organising for Ms Kudaligama's body to be repatriated to Sri Lanka
said the death of his friend was an unbelievable tragedy for \\u201Cone of the friendliest women he knew\\u201D
Ms Kudaligama's brother said the family was hoping her body would be released and repatriated as soon as possible for them to proceed with the funeral
\\u201CIt is too painful for us to come to Perth to handle this,\\\" he said
A neighbour said\\u00A0Ms Kudaligama had a friendly smile that would be fondly missed
Ms Kudaligama's husband has been charged with murder following his wife's death
44,\\u00A0 faced Perth Magistrates Court on Monday
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A 44-year-old man charged with the murder of his wife in Balga on Sunday has faced court in Perth dressed in a police forensic jumpsuit.
Upendra Ihalahewa has been charged with murdering Darshika Nilmini Kudaligama Withana, aged in her 40s, on Sunday morning.
Upendra Ihalahewa has been charged with murdering his wife Darshika Nilmini Kudaligama Withana.Credit: Facebook
Mr Ihalahewa appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Monday, but spoke only to confirm his name.
The presiding magistrate, upon reading a report, confirmed Mr Ihalahewa would spend seven days in custody at Graylands Hospital, undergoing a psychiatric assessment.
He will next appear in court on February 11.
Forensic police were at the Balga home on Sunday Credit: Nine News Perth
On Sunday St John Ambulance officers were called to an apartment on Danehill Way about 9am after a woman suffered life threatening injuries.
Paramedics were unable to save the woman, who died at the scene.
Forensic detectives were scouring the scene over the weekend.
Upendra Ihalahewa has been charged with murdering\\u00A0Darshika Nilmini Kudaligama Withana, aged in her 40s, on Sunday morning.
Four men accused of bashing a Perth father to death inside his Balga home allegedly left him with injuries comparable to a car crash victim
Dejan Dimitrovski was found dead in his Balga home in 2017
He had suffered significant blunt force trauma injuries to his face
multiple shallow stab wounds to his torso and foot
empty water bottles and duct tape were found nearby
Sannah Jr Samura and William Wade Kickett are on trial in the Supreme Court of Western Australia
A fifth man – nicknamed ‘AK’ due to the tattoo of an AK-47 on his forehead – was giving CPR to Mr Dimitrovski when police arrived
but fled the country after being interviewed and was never charged
said Mr Dimitrovski lived alone at his Balga house at the time of the killing
which was “a bit like Fort Knox” with roller shutters over the windows and an extensive CCTV network
particularly in the weeks leading up to his death,” she said
“The house had been shot at by an unknown person on at least one occasion.”
it is alleged the four men – who were friends or accomplices of Mr Dimitrovski – visited his house at 8pm and stayed for around 35 minutes when
One of the several women Mr Dimitrovski was dating at the time said she had arranged to visit at 7pm that night
but received a text saying “some of my mates just came past
give me 15 mins” as she approached the Dallington Crescent address
During that time it is alleged the four men murdered Mr Dimitrovski before racing away in two vehicles – a Lexus owned by Mr Akhbari Sadiqi
and a Mercedes owned by Mr Samura – which were spotted on CCTV from neighbouring properties
The case against the men is circumstantial
with the cars’ number plates unable to be ascertained through the vision
forcing the prosecution to call hundreds of witnesses who also own the same make and model in order to exclude their vehicles
CCTV footage from outside Mr Farsijani and Mr Akhbari Sadiqi’s girlfriends’ Cannington unit on the date of Mr Dimitrovski’s death showed the men leaving the complex in their cars and returning that evening wearing different clothes
Ms Christian said both men appeared to be wearing shoes too small for them
with Mr Farsijani’s heels hanging over the edge of his footwear
The clothes the pair were wearing when they left the unit were unable to be located when police later searched their properties
Clothing matching what Mr Samura wore the day of the death was allegedly buried in a plastic bag in bushland by Mr Kickett later that night
The bag was recovered by police 18 months later and included Mr Dimitrovski’s computer modem that was missing from his home
His missing CCTV network video recorder has never been recovered
Mr Farsijani and Mr Akhbari Sadiqi’s mobile phones allegedly pinged cell towers close to Mr Dimitrovski’s house on the night of his death
Mr Farsijani’s DNA was also allegedly recovered from a water bottle inside the victim’s entertainment area and his fingerprints were found in the house
Prosecutors claim Mr Kickett allegedly told a friend he “popped Dejan in the head” months after the death – however a motive behind the killing is not known
Mr Akhbari Sadiqi and Mr Farsijani claiming the men denied any involvement in the killing
“The state have no idea what happened in that house,” Mr Farsijani’s lawyer
it’s not something you can speculate about
you’ve really got to be satisfied that the state has proved what happened in the case
“Even if you were satisfied Mr Farsijani was at the house at the time
Mr Trowell said there were “shadowy figures in the background” of the case and noted there was at least one person in the house when Mr Dimitrovski died – ‘AK’
“When you’ve got pieces of the jigsaw puzzle missing
you can’t airbrush these other people out of the story,” he said
Mr Kickett’s lawyer declined to make an opening statement
The trial is expected to take three months
A fifth man \\u2013 nicknamed \\u2018AK\\u2019 due to the tattoo of an AK-47 on his forehead \\u2013 was giving CPR to Mr Dimitrovski when police arrived
which was \\u201Ca bit like Fort Knox\\u201D with roller shutters over the windows and an extensive CCTV network
particularly in the weeks leading up to his death,\\u201D she said
\\u201CThe house had been shot at by an unknown person on at least one occasion.\\u201D
it is alleged the four men \\u2013 who were friends or accomplices of Mr Dimitrovski \\u2013 visited his house at 8pm and stayed for around 35 minutes when
but received a text saying \\u201Csome of my mates just came past
give me 15 mins\\u201D as she approached the Dallington Crescent address
During that time it is alleged the four men murdered Mr Dimitrovski before racing away in two vehicles \\u2013 a Lexus owned by Mr Akhbari Sadiqi
and a Mercedes owned by Mr Samura \\u2013 which were spotted on CCTV from neighbouring properties
with the cars\\u2019 number plates unable to be ascertained through the vision
CCTV footage from outside Mr Farsijani and Mr Akhbari Sadiqi\\u2019s girlfriends\\u2019 Cannington unit on the date of Mr Dimitrovski\\u2019s death showed the men leaving the complex in their cars and returning that evening wearing different clothes
with Mr Farsijani\\u2019s heels hanging over the edge of his footwear
The bag was recovered by police 18 months later and included Mr Dimitrovski\\u2019s computer modem that was missing from his home
Mr Farsijani and Mr Akhbari Sadiqi\\u2019s mobile phones allegedly pinged cell towers close to Mr Dimitrovski\\u2019s house on the night of his death
Mr Farsijani\\u2019s DNA was also allegedly recovered from a water bottle inside the victim\\u2019s entertainment area and his fingerprints were found in the house
Prosecutors claim Mr Kickett allegedly told a friend he \\u201Cpopped Dejan in the head\\u201D months after the death \\u2013 however a motive behind the killing is not known
\\u201CThe state have no idea what happened in that house,\\u201D Mr Farsijani\\u2019s lawyer
\\u201CIt\\u2019s not something you can guess
it\\u2019s not something you can speculate about
you\\u2019ve really got to be satisfied that the state has proved what happened in the case
\\u201CEven if you were satisfied Mr Farsijani was at the house at the time
Mr Trowell said there were \\u201Cshadowy figures in the background\\u201D of the case and noted there was at least one person in the house when Mr Dimitrovski died \\u2013 \\u2018AK\\u2019
\\u201CWhen you\\u2019ve got pieces of the jigsaw puzzle missing
you can\\u2019t airbrush these other people out of the story,\\u201D he said
Mr Kickett\\u2019s lawyer declined to make an opening statement
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Two homes have been largely destroyed by fires
with reports of a blaze in Balga this morning following a similar one in Mandurah overnight
6PR reporter Anne Barclay told Millsy and Karl on 6PR Breakfast emergency services were called to a home in Balga at around 7am this morning
The fire in Mandurah last night is being treated as suspicious
with arson squad detectives set to investigate the blaze
Danielle Laidley has detailed the depths she fell to after her life in AFL came to an end
the hardships of growing up in Balga in a split family and the overwhelming support she has recently felt from the football community
Her new book Don’t Look Away: A Memoir of Identity & Acceptance details the former football star’s journey through gender dysphoria
from premierships to rock bottom to reclaiming her true self
Danielle (pictured above with fellow Kangaroos legend Brent Harvey) told Gareth Parker on 6PR Breakfast she carried her gender dysphoria from a very young age
“The persona or brand I built for myself at that point in time was so far removed from who I was,” she said on Wednesday
football in winter – was a way to balance out my life
“Investing in my playing and coaching career
that was my addiction… when I left the AFL to mostly start transitioning
I didn’t have my disease of addiction
“And for the first time in my life I started to gamble
started to drink and got introduced to drugs at 48 years of age at that very dark time
I’m quite embarrassed and ashamed of that.”
ABC NewsWoman attacked at Balga house dies in hospital
man accused of murderShare Woman attacked at Balga house dies in hospital
man accused of murderGBy Graeme Powell
Ambulances ramped outside Royal Perth Hospital emergency department
3 August 2015 (ABC News: Andrew O'Connor)
Link copiedShareShare articleA 28-year-old man has been charged with murder after a woman who suffered severe neck injuries during an attack in the northern Perth suburb of Balga died in hospital
The woman, 38, was found in a critical condition with a deep cut to her neck by police who were called to a disturbance at a house in Wythburn Avenue on Monday night.
She underwent emergency surgery in Royal Perth Hospital but died on Tuesday night.
The man was arrested on Monday night shortly after the assault and questioned by detectives from the Major Crime Unit as part of a homicide investigation.
He was charged with murder, assaulting a public officer and obstructing public officers.
The ABC understands the woman was visiting a friend at the property and did not know her alleged attacker.
The man is due to face Perth Magistrates Court later on Wednesday.
A young woman had recently reunited with her family and was about to begin a new life when she was allegedly stabbed to death in an 'unprovoked' attack
Mauwa Kizenga, 22, and her cousin were on their way to visit relatives when she was allegedly set upon by a stranger in a random attack outside a primary school in Balga in Perth's north on Saturday night
She was rushed to hospital but couldn't be saved
Good Samaritan bystanders raced down the street to chase the alleged knifeman and make a citizen's arrest
Ms Kizenga made the 3,400km move back to Perth from Melbourne earlier this year to help care for her mum and begin a new job in mining
Her heartbroken mother broke her silence on Monday on the day her eldest daughter was meant to start her new career
'She was everything to me,' Petronia Wabiwa told Seven News
'I need the government to stand up for this case for more my daughter
'They (the alleged attacker) killed my daughter for nothing
The family moved to Australia in 2009 for a better life after fleeing the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Ms Kizenga grew up to become one of family's main breadwinners who supported her mum and younger siblings
full of life who loved going out and making friends
'She had a job in Victoria but then she got a job here at the mines which she was supposed to start today (Monday),' Ms Wabiwa told The West Australian
'She always used to set up her young siblings' birthdays
Another relative added that Mauwa 'did everything' for her family
'She (Ms Wabiwa) feels very alone because she has younger kids and worries about who is going to help her,' the relative said
Friends have set up an online fundraiser to help the family with funeral expenses
'Mauwa was only 22 years old with her entire life ahead of her
'A soul with so much light has gone too soon
An untimely death that no parent wishes for their child
A cruel death that nobody wishes for their loved ones
vibrancy and positive aura can never be replaced.'
The GoFundMe appeal has raised almost $7,000 in two days
As Ms Kizenga's family grapple with their devastating loss
appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Monday
where his long history with mental illness was detailed
Jalloh didn't apply for bail and he was remanded in custody to appear at Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on April 17
who has links to Perth's Liberian community
who expressed their condolences to Ms Kizenga's family outside court
'We are only here to sympathise with the bereaved family and we want to say sorry for what happened
this shouldn't happen in our community,' Dave Jallah told reporters
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