Mundaring Icons

Barry Walter Rhodes (1939–2024)

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barry Rhodes, an icon of Mundaring’s forestry legacy, on the 8th of October, 2024. Barry was a cornerstone of the community and a wealth of knowledge on the history of Mundaring. His contributions were many, including his participation in our *Decades of Generations* documentary in 2019.

 

A Legacy Born in the Trees

 

Born on July 18th, 1939, in Guildford and raised at the forestry settlement near Mundaring Weir, Barry followed in the footsteps of his father, Watty Rhodes, who served the Forestry Department for 43 years. At just 14 years old, Barry embarked on a 45-year-long career within the Forestry Department, beginning as a faller, working tirelessly to maintain and protect the forests that shaped his life.

 

Community at the Heart of His Life

 

Beyond his forestry work, Barry was a man dedicated to the people of Mundaring. He helped form the Mundaring Junior Cricket Team and devoted time to coaching junior football, fostering a love for sport in the younger generation. His marriage to Betty on May 16th, 1959, marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Together, they built their home on Hartung Street and raised two sons, both of whom would continue the family tradition of service within the forestry sector.

 

A Life of Continued Service

 

Even after his retirement, Barry remained active in the community. His passion for the environment extended to the gardens of Chartwell Gardens in Mahogany Creek, where he and his friend Brian Selkirk worked tirelessly to create and maintain beautiful landscapes, opening them annually to raise funds for local charities.

 

A Lasting Legacy

 

Barry Rhodes leaves behind a legacy rooted in family, community, and a love for the land. His dedication to Mundaring's history and future was unmatched, and his contributions will continue to inspire future generations.

 

We extend our deepest condolences to his beloved wife Betty, his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

 

Rest in peace, Barry. Your memory will forever be a part of Mundaring's story.

Rosemary Ball (née Rumbold) (1927–2023)  

 

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rosemary Ball (née Rumbold), a respected figure in Mount Helena's history, who passed away in 2023. Rosemary was a key member of the community, known for her extensive knowledge of local history and her dedication to various roles that served the area. Her contributions, including her participation in our Decades of Generations documentary in 2019, have left a lasting impact on Mount Helena.

 

A Lifelong Commitment to Community

 

Born in 1927, Rosemary became a cornerstone of the Mount Helena community through her work and volunteerism. She served as the Postmistress of the Mount Helena Post Office from 1967 for over 15 years, where she played a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of this essential service for the town. Her friendly and reliable presence made her a beloved figure among residents.

 

In addition to her work at the post office, Rosemary was instrumental in the establishment of Eastern Hills Senior High School. She was the inaugural secretary of the school’s Parents and Citizens (P&C) Association when it opened in 1962, where she worked tirelessly to support the educational environment for local students.

 

A Pillar of Historical Knowledge

 

Rosemary’s deep connection to Mount Helena extended beyond her professional and volunteer roles. She was an invaluable source of historical knowledge, helping to preserve the town's legacy for future generations. Her involvement in the Decades of Generations documentary is just one example of her commitment to sharing Mount Helena's rich history.

 

A Life Remembered

 

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Rosemary's family and friends during this difficult time, including her children Harry, Jenny, and Delys. Rosemary Ball’s legacy lives on through the community she loved and served so well. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

 

Rest in peace, Rosemary. Your memory will remain a treasured part of Mount Helena's history.

Merv Millar (1933–2019)

 

It is with great sadness that Lost Mundaring & Surroundings acknowledges the passing of Merv Millar, a beloved figure in the community, on Sunday, August 25th, 2019, at the age of 86. Merv was the original manager of the Bilgoman Aquatic Centre and a dedicated Shire of Mundaring employee for 30 years, from 1968 to 1998.

 

A Lifelong Commitment to Aquatics and Community

 

Merv Millar was not just a pool manager; he was the heart and soul of Bilgoman Aquatic Centre. His professionalism, friendliness, and unwavering support for the local kids and their families left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Known for his kindness and dedication, Merv played a pivotal role in shaping the centre into the community hub it became. His influence extended beyond his managerial duties as he helped build a welcoming and safe environment for everyone who walked through Bilgoman’s doors.

 

Thankfully, Merv lived to see and celebrate the most recent major upgrades to the pool that he cherished so deeply, knowing that his legacy would continue to benefit the community for years to come.

 

A Leader in Western Australian Aquatics

 

Merv's contributions to the aquatic community didn’t stop at Bilgoman. He was one of the founding members of the Leisure Institute of Western Australia Aquatics (LIWA), an organization dedicated to the advancement of aquatic management and safety in the state. His outstanding service to the field was recognised when he was awarded life membership, a testament to his impact on the industry and his peers.

 

A Big Man with a Big Heart

 

Merv’s legacy in the Shire of Mundaring and the surrounding hills community is immense. His warmth, dedication, and service have touched countless lives. We thank Merv and his family for their wonderful work, especially during the early years of Bilgoman Aquatic Centre. The pool continues to serve as a tribute to his passion and hard work, offering a space where the community can come together, just as Merv envisioned.

 

Our deepest thanks to the Shire of Mundaring for sharing Merv’s story with us, and a heartfelt thank you to Amy Holloway for providing the cherished photo of her Pop, Merv Millar, and his great-granddaughter.

 

Rest in peace, Merv. Your big heart and unwavering dedication will forever be remembered in the hills community.

End of an Era – The Retirement of Bill Volich

 

After nearly five decades of service to the Shire of Mundaring, Bill Volich, the man behind Volich Waste, retired. From June 2023, the waste management contract will transition to the Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC), marking the end of an era for the Volich family, who have been dedicated to keeping the Shire clean and running smoothly for nearly 50 years.

 

A Family Legacy in Waste Management

 

Bill Volich’s journey began in 1974 when he started working for the Shire of Mundaring under the guidance of his father, Tom Volich. Tom had previously owned the Mundaring Hardware store before establishing the family waste management business. In 1978, Bill took over the business from his father, continuing the Volich family’s service to the local community.

 

From Hands-On Work to Automation

 

The early days of waste collection were vastly different from today’s automated systems. Bill recalls a time when rubbish trucks were manually operated, with workers on the back loading trash into a hole on the side of the truck. This hands-on method persisted until the early 1990s, when the introduction of automated, robotic-arm trucks transformed the industry in Mundaring. It was during this period that the familiar green plastic bins also became a part of everyday life for residents.

 

Managing the Shire's Waste Facilities

 

In addition to running Volich Waste, Bill managed the Shire's rubbish tips and waste transfer stations at Coppin Road and Mathieson Road for 20 years, providing a crucial service to the community. His dedication and commitment were evident in the care and attention he brought to every aspect of his work, helping to modernize waste management in the area.

 

A Heartfelt Farewell

 

As Bill steps into retirement, we want to take this opportunity to thank him and the entire Volich family for their decades of service. Their hard work and dedication have ensured that the Shire of Mundaring remained a clean, safe, and well-managed community for residents and visitors alike.

 

We wish Bill Volich all the best in his retirement and extend our gratitude for his immense contributions to Mundaring.

 

Rest well, Bill. You’ve earned it.

Albert Barnett Facey (1894–1982)

 

Albert Barnett Facey, an Australian icon and author of the beloved autobiography A Fortunate Life, remains one of the most cherished figures in Australian literature. His life, marked by hardship, resilience, and community service, is deeply intertwined with the history of Mundaring and the wider Perth Hills area, particularly in his later years.

 

A Childhood of Hardship and Early Work

 

Born in 1894 in Maidstone, Victoria, Albert's early life was filled with hardship. His father, Joseph Facey, died of typhoid fever before Albert turned two. Soon after, Albert's mother abandoned him, leaving him to be raised by his grandmother. Despite a lack of formal education, he taught himself to read and write while growing up on the goldfields of Coolgardie and in outback Western Australia.

 

At the tender age of eight, Albert entered the workforce, taking on various jobs to support himself and his family. His experiences spanned a wide range of roles, from station-hand and drover to tramways employee, travelling boxer, and unionist. These early years shaped his character, making him both tough and resourceful.

 

Service and Tragedy in War

 

Albert’s life took another difficult turn when he enlisted in the Australian Army during World War I. In August 1915, he was severely injured at Gallipoli, where two of his brothers were killed. While recovering from his injuries, he met Evelyn Gibson, the woman who would become his wife in 1916. Together, they had seven children, though their eldest son, Barney, was tragically killed during World War II.

 

Life in Mundaring and Mount Helena

 

In 1953, Albert and his family moved to Mount Helena, a significant chapter in his later life. His reputation as a dedicated community servant soon spread, and he was urged to run for local government. Albert was elected to the Mundaring Roads Board, representing the Chidlow Ward, and quickly became a trusted voice for his community. Within a year of his election, he was appointed Chairman of the Board and also became a Justice of the Peace, roles in which he thrived.

 

A Fortunate Life: The Autobiography

 

In the years following World War I, Albert began to document his life story. His children encouraged him to submit his notebooks for publication, leading to the release of his autobiography A Fortunate Life in 1981, when Albert was 87 years old. The book’s success was extraordinary, winning multiple literary awards and being adapted into a stage play and a television mini-series. A Fortunate Life resonated with readers for its honest portrayal of hardship, resilience, and the simple joys of life.

 

In 1981, Albert Facey was also nominated for Australian of the Year, a fitting recognition for a man whose life embodied the strength and endurance of the Australian spirit.

 

Legacy in Mundaring

 

Albert Facey passed away in February 1982, but his legacy endures, especially in the Mundaring community. On 31 August 1984, the Mundaring Public Library was renamed the Albert Facey Memorial Library in his honour. This tribute to his life ensures that his story remains accessible to future generations.

 

Albert Facey’s reflection on his life remains an inspiration:  

"I have lived a very good life, it has been very rich and full. I have been very fortunate and I am thrilled by it when I look back."

 

Albert Facey’s life serves as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. His contribution to both Australian literature and the Mundaring community will be remembered for generations to come.

Elsie Austin's passing left a void in the Hills community, yet her contributions remain woven into the very fabric of Mundaring's history. A tireless volunteer, mentor, and leader, she epitomised the spirit of the Hills and left behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

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A Champion of Junior Football

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Elsie Austin's name is forever linked with junior football in Mount Helena. As co-founder of the Mount Helena Junior Football Club, she devoted countless hours to ensuring local children could enjoy the sport. From organising events to washing uniforms, her dedication was unwavering. With perfect attendance at club meetings throughout her tenure, Elsie was not just a participant but the heart and soul of the club.

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A Lasting Impact on the Community

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Her influence reached beyond football. As a lifetime member of the Hills Junior Football Association, Elsie played a vital role in shaping the experiences of young athletes. Her commitment to their development instilled lessons of teamwork, community, and perseverance. She was known for her meticulous care, from organising uniforms to hosting celebratory functions, making a lasting impression on everyone involved.

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A Legacy That Endures

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Despite witnessing significant changes in the Hills throughout her life, Elsie’s commitment to her community remained steadfast. The renaming of the Mount Helena Oval in her honour serves as a fitting tribute to her unwavering dedication. Recognized as Citizen of the Year in 1987, her impact transcended football and touched the lives of many in the broader community.

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Though she may no longer be with us, Elsie Austin's spirit continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of dedication and the importance of community service. Every time young players step onto the field named after her, they honour a woman whose legacy will never fade.

A Community Champion

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Harry Riseborough carved out a lasting legacy during his time in the Hills from 1964 to 1969. As a police officer stationed at Mundaring Police Station, he quickly became a beloved figure, earning the nickname "supercop." His genuine connection with the community, especially the youth, was unparalleled. Riseborough’s efforts to foster a sporting culture culminated in the establishment of the Hills Junior Football Association, uniting young athletes from Parkerville, Mundaring, Mount Helena, Wooroloo, and Wundowie.

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The Birth of the Hills Junior Football Association

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The genesis of the Hills Junior Football Association came from a meeting at Mundaring Primary School, where Harry gathered enthusiastic boys from diverse areas to form four teams. This initiative not only provided a platform for youth to engage in sports but also taught them essential values like teamwork and discipline. Harry’s vision for the association quickly took root, becoming a cornerstone of junior sports in the Shire.

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A Pinnacle of Achievement

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Harry’s dedication to service and leadership propelled him to the esteemed position of Chief Superintendent of the Perth Metropolitan Area on May 13, 1988. This milestone marked the apex of his career, illustrating his commitment to law enforcement and community engagement. Throughout his journey, Harry remained a guiding force for young athletes, returning annually to present a medal to the Hills Junior Football Association's star player—a tradition that highlighted his lasting influence.

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Lasting Impact and Legacy

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Reflecting on his time in Mundaring, Harry stated, "The time I spent at Mundaring was the highlight of my police career." His humility and willingness to give back endeared him to the community. Beyond his law enforcement duties, Harry was also a talented footballer, representing the South Fremantle "Bulldogs." His mentorship of young players, including Sandover Medallist Mark Watson, showcased his commitment to nurturing the next generation.​

 

The old Mundaring Nippers Oval renamed the Harry Riseborough Recreation Ground in 1976, serves as a tribute to a remarkable individual who profoundly impacted the Mundaring community. This transformation reflects the community's deep appreciation for Harry Riseborough, a dedicated police officer and passionate advocate for junior football.

 

Today, the ground not only hosts sporting activities but also stands as a testament to his legacy of service and community spirit, inspiring future generations who walk the fields he once nurtured.