Serpentine Jarrahdale’s 2025 was marked by service expansions, community advocacy, fundraising milestones and several moments of tension in the council chamber, as the fast-growing area continued to grapple with rising costs and infrastructure demand.
In February, the $14.5 million Cardup Fire Station officially opened, providing a 24/7 staffed facility to support increasing emergency service demand driven by population growth.
The shire also switched on its first electric vehicle charging station, installed outside the shire administration building.
In March, SJ resident Theresa Churchill took part in the 20 Hours for 20 Talk youth mental health challenge, helping raise awareness and support for young people.
While athletes from Byford-based Run and Become Athletic Club dominated at the Masters state championships, delivering strong local sporting results across multiple events.
In June, the Environmental Protection Authority opened public consultation on two Alcoa mining proposals in the Northern Jarrah Forest, prompting local interest and submissions from residents and environmental groups.
Spoiler alert, Alcoa withdrew its plans.
However, the Jarrahdale Forest Protectors said current expansion plans were still in the pipeline and they’re not ready to rest just yet.
Venice-based Perth artist Stormie Mills visited Karnet Prison Farm in July, leading a journalling workshop encouraging self-expression through writing and drawing.
In August, the shire received its first Foodbank truck in response to growing community demand for food relief.
The month also saw a 4.8 per cent rate rise, prompting resident petitions at the August council meeting.
Cardup resident Elaine Fallon said about 60 residents attended to oppose the increase.
“We wanted the shire to realise that we, in this community, cannot sustain these rate rises,” she said.
Shire President Rob Coales said the increase reflected higher costs associated with maintaining parks, roads and drainage.
At the same time, the SJ Farmers Market backed Flanno for a Farmer Day, with organisers raising funds and awareness for peri-urban producers.
“The Serpentine-Jarrahdale Food and Farm Alliance (SJFFA) is specifically about supporting our local producers and food security,” president Alyssa Miller said.
In September, the Heritage Country Choir set a new fundraising record, raising $4226 at its annual musical-themed concert.
“But you don’t think of it as paying for a concert, you think of it as a donation to a good cause where you’re also going to get entertained,” president Eileen Davis said.
Byford Classic Car Club member Tara Connors took part in the MACA Cancer 200, describing the event as both celebratory and emotional for riders honouring loved ones.
October marked the 120th anniversary of Mundijong Heritage Church, with long-time member Ruth Igglesden crediting friendship and hospitality for the church’s longevity.
The same month, community charity Homelessness We Care unveiled its new custom-built mobile dinner service trailer to expand its outreach.
Undeniably, one of the biggest news to come from 2025 was the opening of the new Byford station.
After budget blowouts and opening date delays, the opening ceremony saw smiles all around as the community marked the event.
A Byford Halloween party was shut down by police, with organiser Kiara Donovan-Mella saying most attendees were well-behaved, contrary to reports, but security would be required if the event were held again.
In November, two new horse trails, Whim and Jinker, were opened as part of the state trail network.
Trail advocate Andrew Jackson said the additions would support regional tourism and provide new riding opportunities to be shared with walkers and cyclists.
Later that month, a council meeting was briefly adjourned due to laughter from the public gallery during a debate on challenge coins.
“It won’t physically fix a road,” Mr Coales said.
“But it might assist to get the right people talking about the shire.”
In December, Byford
resident Sarah Ford launched the Rose program, aimed at supporting women experiencing family and domestic violence.
The Byford BMX Club renewed its relocation push to Kiernan Park, with president Dan Lander addressing council.
“If I didn’t speak, we may never get funding,” he said.
With infrastructure pressures, cost-of-living concerns and continued population growth, 2025 saw SJ residents navigate another year of rapid change.
