Armadale’s 2025 was defined by community achievements, heritage disputes and ongoing debate about growth, safety and public assets, as residents continued to shape the city’s evolving identity.
The city also switched on its first electric vehicle charging stations, with five chargers installed across the Armadale administration centre and the Armadale Fitness and Aquatic Centre (AFAC).
Kelmscott Baseball Club celebrated one of its greatest achievements when club stalwart Ryan Prosser reached a club record 500 games after three decades on the diamond.
In another rare milestone, 87-year-old Geoff Landwehr marked 70 years of volunteer service with fire and rescue, prompting DFES to create a new long-service clasp to recognise his contribution.
In February, the demolition of the former district forest officer Allan Cuthbert Harris’ cottage prompted criticism from local historians.
Mr Harris was once responsible for managing large areas of the Northern Jarrah Forest from his base in Jarrahdale.
Although heritage-listed locally, the cottage was removed from state register consideration in 2021 before the statutory planning committee ultimately approved demolition.
In May, council endorsed a 200-metre camping exclusion zone around playgrounds, schools and childcare centres as part of a crackdown on rough sleeping near children’s areas.
The city saw the formation of a new Aboriginal creative collective, Armadale Aboriginal Arts, while Forrestdale Junior Football Club celebrated 40 years of developing youth participation and club culture following steady regrowth since 2019.
Armadale Gymnastics Club marked its 10-year anniversary, with head coach Alicia Spronck saying a sense of belonging remained at the heart of the club.
“If we can provide an hour a week where it’s safe and they feel welcomed, then we’re doing our job,” she said.
Minnawarra House also welcomed new centre manager Sammy Fowler, who reflected on growing up locally and returning to serve the community she calls home.
In August, Armadale police and city rangers plunged into the cold pool at AFAC in full uniform, raising $3500 for Special Olympics.
Other community highlights included: Peppars Softball Club marked 50 years, the Love and Lace exhibition raised funds for sepsis awareness and Kelmscott’s 64-year-old DJ Bully made his long-awaited performance debut after weeks of rehearsals.
Meanwhile, members of the Southern Districts Rifle Club voiced concerns over the rollout of new firearm laws, citing licensing and portal processing issues despite meeting compliance requirements.
Champion Lakes Boating Club member Kathy Mallory travelled to Hungary for the Canoe Marathon World Championships, competing in her disability class for the first time.
She was later named 2025 Paracanoe Paddler of the Year.
“There’s no one else in Australia with my disability competing in marathon,” she said.
Residents in Kelmscott raised alarms over the demolition of a potentially asbestos-contaminated property on Clifton Street, questioning site management and material handling.
Separately, long-running concerns resurfaced over the deteriorating old Armadale courthouse, with residents questioning safety and future use of the vacant state-managed site.
The City of Armadale said it had no authority to act because the building was state-owned.
After more than 40 years in operation, Armadale Physiotherapy closed its doors in November.
Owner Jim Vanderplas said the time was right to step back after decades devoted to the practice.
The year also marked 10 years of the Armadale Hills Arts Trail, founded by Bedfordale resident Sue Doorey, who initially launched the event simply to meet her neighbours.
From heritage disputes and demolition concerns to milestone celebrations, charity efforts and national-level sporting achievements, 2025 reflected a city balancing renewal with history and a community continuing to make its voice heard.
