IN THIS ISSUE New Council Members | Community News | Shire Updatesw Issue 7 November 2025 BABBLING BOABS
Tamara Clarkson Chief Executive Officer UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS The following Council Meetings are scheduled: Thursday 27 November 2025 - 11:00am Karrayilli Adult Education Centre, Fitzroy Crossing Thursday 11 December 2025 – 5:30pm Derby Council Chambers Shire of Derby/West Kimberley Council will be in recess during January. The first Council Meeting in 2026 is scheduled on: Thursday 26 February 2026 - 5:30pm Derby Council Chambers LIVESTREAMING COUNCIL MEETINGS A reminder the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley has implemented live streaming of Council meetings due to Section 58 of the Local Government Amendment Act 2023 (the Amendment Act), a new section under the Local Government Act 1995 (the Act) requiring electronic broadcasting (livestreaming) and video and audio recording of council meetings for Local Governments. Council Meetings will be livestreamed via our Youtube channel @ShireofDerbyWestKimberley and will be available for viewing immediately after the stream has ended. Please note if you choose to attend or participate in any Council Meeting, it is assumed your consent is given for the audio and visual to be recorded. Please note Council Meetings in Fitzroy Crossing will only be recorded. As we move into the final months of 2025, I want to take this opportunity to thank our community for your commitment and support over the past year and reflect on an important few months for the Shire. October saw the community come together for the Local Government elections. The elections saw a record number of candidates nominating for both Councillor and President positions, as well as a significant number of votes from across the Shire. This level of participation shows just how engaged and invested our community is in shaping the future of the West Kimberley. I extend a warm welcome to our newly elected Council Members who were officially sworn in on 20 October 2025 at a Special Council Meeting. I extend my thanks to all who put their hand up to nominate and to every community member who took the time to cast their vote. It is your voice that ensures Council remains representative and responsive to the people we serve. The Shire also recently hosted a series of community engagement sessions for our Council Plan, with a strong turnout from residents across Derby and Fitzroy Crossing. It was encouraging to see so many people come along to share their priorities and ideas for the future of the Shire. Your feedback is invaluable and will help guide the Shire’s work and ensure we are focused on the priorities of our community. With the wet season now upon us, this is a timely reminder for us all to stay prepared and keep up to date. We encourage everyone in the community, as well as visitors to stay informed through our website and social media channels, as well as official communications from state departments. On behalf of the Shire, I wish you and your families a safe, restful and happy holiday period. Tamara Clarkson Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Derby/West Kimberley 2 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 WARNING Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are warned that the following publication may contain images of or references to deceased persons.
Peter McCumstie Shire President Term: 4 Years Kerrissa O’Meara Deputy Shire President Term: 2 Years Adam Cornish Council Member Term: 4 Years Geoff Davis Council Member Term: 4 Years Trish Gault Council Member Term: 4 Years Eliot Money Council Member Term: 4 Years Val Ross Council Member Term: 2 Years Laurie Shaw Council Member Term: 2 Years Leah Umbagai Council Member Term: 2 Years Introducing your new Shire of Derby/West Kimberley Council Members Following the Local Government Elections held 18 October 2025, Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is pleased to welcome its new President and Council Members. At a Special Council Meeting held on 20 October 2025, Council members were officially sworn in, in addition to the election and swearing in of the Deputy President. Council Meeting Update Following the elections and swearing in of Council Members, the first Ordinary Council Meeting was held on Thursday 30 October at the Derby Council Chambers. Here is an update on some of the key decisions made by your new Council at the Meeting: • Cr Leah Umbagai was officially sworn in as Council Member (conducted before the official meeting) • Various Council Meeting Dates were endorsed for 2026 • President Peter McCumstie, Cr Gault, Cr Ross, Cr O’Meara and Cr Money were appointed as representatives on the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee • Council waived the hire fee of the Airport Function Centre for the 2025 International Day of People with Disability event A reminder all community members are invited to attend Council Meetings as well as watch the livestream or recording of the meeting online. BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 3
Starting 1 November 2025, Shire of Derby/West Kimberley commenced the twice-weekly waste collection for all residential properties in Derby and Fitzroy Crossing. This service will continue throughout the wet season until April, to assist residents in managing increased waste volumes during this period. To find your specific collection days, please visit the Shire’s Waste Management page. Wet Season Waste Collection has started Through a partnership between Main Roads Western Australia and the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley, the Jetty Road upgrade is now complete. The Shire extends its thanks and appreciation to Main Roads WA for their involvement and commitment to delivering this project. With improved safety, drainage and accessibility, the upgrades provide a smoother and safer connection for residents, visitors and businesses accessing the Derby wharf and jetty areas. Chief Executive Officer Tamara Clarkson said the Shire was proud to work alongside Main Roads WA to help deliver improvements that benefit the local community. “We are incredibly grateful for the support and contribution of Main Roads WA, whose partnership has made these upgrades possible. Jetty Road is an important connection for locals and visitors and these works have significantly improved safety and accessibility,” she said. With the upgrades now complete, Jetty Road is open and ready for the community to enjoy improved access to one of Derby’s most iconic and well-used routes. Jetty Road Reopens Following Major Improvements 4 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 SHIRE UPDATE
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley wishes the community a safe and happy holiday period. Please note the following operating hours for Shire facilities during the break: Derby and Fitzroy Crossing Administration Centres, Derby and Fitzroy Crossing Depots and Derby Public Library Closed Monday 22 December 2025 – Friday 2 January 2026 (inclusive). Offices will reopen for normal business on Monday 5 January 2026. Please note the Derby and Fitzroy Crossing waste management sites will be closed and no rubbish collection will occur on Thursday 25 December. Friday 19 December 2025 OPEN for normal business Saturday 20 December 2025 OPEN for normal business Sunday 21 December 2025 OPEN for normal business Monday 22 December 2025 OPEN for normal business Tuesday 23 December 2025 OPEN for normal business Wednesday 24 December 2025 5:30am – 7:30am and 11:00am - 4:30pm Thursday 25 December 2025 CLOSED Friday 26 December 2025 Reduced hours – 11:00am-5:00pm Saturday 27 December 2025 Reduced hours – 11:00am-5:00pm Sunday 28 December 2025 Reduced hours – 11:00am-5:00pm Monday 29 December 2025 Reduced hours – 11:00am-5:00pm Tuesday 30 December 2025 Reduced hours – 11:00am-5:00pm Wednesday 31 December 2025 Reduced hours – 11:00am-5:00pm Thursday 1 January 2026 CLOSED Friday 2 January 2026 OPEN for normal business Derby Memorial Swimming Pool Hours: End of Year Closures – Shire Facilities Sign up to Vendorpanel for Local Business Opportunities Go to VendorPanel Marketplace vendorpanel.com.au/marketplace How to sign up for VendorPanel: 1. Search and select your supply categories 2. Register as a supplier and request invitation 3. Check your email for a ‘get started’ email from VendorPanel 4. Verify your account using the link in your ‘get started’ email and follow the prompts to complete your registration 5. Done! You will start to receive notifications of public tenders for the supply categories and regions of service you selected during registration. For any enquiries, contact the Shire on sdwk@ sdwk.wa.gov.au or 9191 0999 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 5
From the Community Two stunning new sculptures have recently been installed along Derby’s iconic Sculptures on the Marsh trail, adding even more creativity and colour to the much-loved community art project. Thanks to funding support from Lotterywest, the new additions include River Snake by Kalinda Palmer and Crocodile and Egret by Jessica Bidewell Art and Design. Kalinda’s River Snake can be found on the north side of the marsh, just past the Stingray sculpture, while Jessica’s Crocodile and Egret is located behind the Mary Island Fishing Club. Both works celebrate the connection between Derby’s landscape, wildlife and culture. Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is proud to support community arts projects that showcase local talent and enhance our community spaces. A special thank you goes to everyone involved in bringing these new pieces to life, including Lotterywest, DWA Industrial Resources Pty Ltd, Leamy Construction, Craig Reynolds, John Devenny and Mark Norval from Norval Gallery for his ongoing support and guidance. If you haven’t been out for a stroll along the marsh lately, now’s the perfect time to explore the trail and see these incredible new sculptures in person. New Additions to the Sculptures on the Marsh Project 6 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025
BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 7 DAWG Update: Responsible pet ownership means taking action - Why desexing matters It’s a busy season at Derby Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) and not just because of the upcoming holidays. Over the past few weeks, we have been fielding a larger number of urgent requests: abandoned cats, litters of helple ss kittens and pregnant felines needing shelter. Unfortunately, our foster spaces are filled to capacity and despite our efforts, we don’t have room for more rescues at the moment. This heartbreak CAN be prevented. The root of the problem is simple: too many pets, not enough responsible ownership. One of the most important things you can do as a pet owner is to desex (spay or neuter) your animals. Desexed pets are healthier, happier and less likely to add to the cycle of abandoned or unwanted animals. At DAWG, we believe in giving every animal a chance. That’s why we run our desexing program year-round, powered by the generosity of donors and the hard work of our volunteers. Every dollar goes directly towards ensuring local animals get care and the future they deserve. If you’ve been putting off desexing your pet, let this be your nudge. Book your furry friend in for desexing or reach out to DAWG if you need assistance. We take all applications and work to assist as many as our funding allows. You’ll be making a real difference in the lives of animals (domestic and native) across Derby. It is also worth noting that registering a desexed pet is cheaper than an intact one! Puppy Boom and the Power of Reporting It hasn’t just been kittens keeping us busy, recent months have seen an explosion of puppies being surrendered. Thanks to a huge community effort, every one of these pups has found a loving home. We’ve also been working alongside the Shire to foster a mama dog and her nine adorable puppies who needed a safe space to grow. In early October, representatives from the RSPCA visited Derby to follow up on welfare reports and offer support. They took the nine puppies into their care, transferring them safely to Broome and then to Perth for rehoming. RSPCA officers also noted that last year, only four reports were made from Derby - far fewer than expected, which results in the RSPCA not seeing the full story of the issues we face here in Derby. If you see or know of animal neglect, abuse or unsafe conditions, please report it. These reports are essential to ensure that Derby receives the attention, resources and action it needs. Reports can even be made anonymously and can be lodged directly on the RSPCA WA website: https://www. rspcawa.org.au/report-cruelty DAWG Bookshop Holiday Trading Update With the holidays approaching, the DAWG Bookshop will be taking a well-earned break. Our last day of trading before Christmas will be Saturday, 20 December (9am–1pm) and we will be reopening on Monday 2 February 2026. We’re celebrating with a festive Christmas lunch for our hardworking volunteers so pop in for a chat, stock up on reading goodies and help us wrap up the year on a high note. How You Can Help • Desex your pets! It saves lives and leads to a better quality of life for your furbaby • Report neglect, cruelty or animal welfare issues to the RSPCA. • Donate online or when you visit the Bookshop. • Volunteer your time, skills or home for fostering (when spaces reopen). • Spread the word about responsible pet ownership. We appreciate all those who work with DAWG to make Derby a safer, kinder place for every animal who calls it home. Thank you for being part of the change!
President’s Update Submitted by the Derby Chamber of Commerce, Brett Angwin, President. As we wrap up another busy period for the Derby Chamber of Commerce, I would like to reflect on some of the highlights and achievements over the past few months. Kimberley Roadshow Visit We were honoured to welcome Basil Zempilas MLA, Leader of the Opposition, along with Hon Neil Thomson MLC, Hon Michelle Boylan MLC, Hon Melissa Price MP, Member for Durack and Peter Murray, Chair of Marrra Worra Worra to our region as part of the Kimberley Roadshow listening tour. Representatives from the Chamber and the community came together to showcase our town, share ideas and advocate for outcomes. It was great to see so much energy and collaboration. Business After Hours at Wattnow Electrical Our Business After Hours event was a highlight, with over 50 attendees from local businesses, organisations and community members. Guests heard from Kimberley Police Superintendent and Honorary Chamber Member John Hutchison, who shared important updates. This event continues our series of business after hours hosted by local businesses in Derby, with Wattnow Electrical hosting the most recent. It was a fantastic opportunity to network, discuss ideas and celebrate local business. If you are interested in hosting or getting involved, let us know! From the Chamber 8 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025
Chamber Website Revamp We’ve given our website a fresh new look as part of the Chamber’s ongoing operations. The updated site will provide updated information on local businesses and members, make information more accessible and highlight the great work happening across Derby and the West Kimberley. Scan the QR code to check it out! Broome Chamber of Commerce Business Awards The Derby Chamber proudly sponsored the Start-Up Business Award at the Broome Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Congratulations to Hoozie Chapman of Rneud, the well-deserved winner! It’s inspiring to see local innovation and entrepreneurship recognised at a regional level. Annual General Meeting and New Committee Our AGM at the end of October welcomed new committee members who will help drive the Chamber forward. Please join me in welcoming: • Deputy President: Geoff Haerewa • Treasurer: Tania Turei • Secretary: Bron Travers • Committee Members: Sarah Hardman, Brett Perkins, Andrew Twaddle, Lester Hamilton, Sade Hoath, Angie Walker, Declan Harwood and Kyra Edwards. I look forward to working with this team to support members and grow opportunities across our region. Welcome to our new team member We’re delighted to introduce Bron Travers, our new Events and Member Coordinator. With over 13 years of business ownership experience, Bron Travers is passionate about driving business growth, creating local opportunities and bringing people together. As a dedicated community member, she volunteers her time with the West Kimberley Turf Club and now proudly serves as the Events and Membership Coordinator for the Derby Chamber of Commerce. Looking Ahead It’s been an active and rewarding few months for the Chamber. Thank you to all members, volunteers and partners for your continued support. We’re continuing to build a stronger, more connected business community in Derby and the West Kimberley. Brett Angwin President, Derby Chamber of Commerce BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 9
In the Kimberley, the first rains of the season are always eagerly anticipated — a sign that the long, hot build-up is giving way to the wet season. The arrival of the rain brings relief to parched landscapes and rivers. Looking back over the past few years, we can see how the start of the wet season has varied across the West Kimberley. Derby’s first rain has typically arrived in late November, though 2024 bucked the trend with showers beginning in late October, signalling an early start to the wet season. The rainfall totals have varied considerably, from the low 300mm of 2023/2024 to the record-breaking Kimberley Floods of 2022/2023. The First Rains: Looking Back over the Last Five Years Year First Rain of the Season Total Rainfall for the Wet Season Derby (Airport) 2018 4.8mm on 19 November 436.2mm 2019 4.6mm on 24 November 629.6mm 2020 3.8mm on 20 November 774.6mm 2021 0.9mm on 29 November 542.8mm 2022 34mm on 21 November 1135.2mm (Kimberley Floods) 2023 1.8mm on 23 November 310.4mm 2024 4.8mm on 29 October 820.4mm Year First Rain of the Season Total Rainfall for the Wet Season Fitzroy Crossing 2018 10mm on 3 November 230.6mm 2019 1.4mm on 26 October 311.4mm 2020 4.8mm on 7 November 707.6mm 2021 3mm on 27 October 800.2mm 2022 33mm on 1 October 895.2mm 2023 1.4mm on 8 November 415.2mm 2024 7.8mm on 10 October 515mm The West Kimberley also sees rainfall variation across the region. Some standout locations over the last few years include: Places with the Most Rainfall of the Wet Season (November-April inclusive) 2018/2019 Mud Springs 656mm 2019/2020 Mt Hart 998mm 2020/2021 Mt Hart 1266.7mm 2021/2022 Country Downs 1494.9mm 2022/2023 Yampi Sound Defence 1395.9mm 2023/2024 Mt House Airstrip 908mm 2024 Mt House Airstrip 1153.6mm 10 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025
Wet Season Preparedness It has already rained this month! Now is the time for everyone to get their home and families ready for the wet season, as storms and rain will soon be arriving. Before the storms arrive, take time to: • Secure your property – tie down or store loose items, clear the yard of debris and trim back trees near powerlines or houses. • Clean gutters and drains – ensure water can flow freely to reduce flooding around your home. Check your roof – repair loose sheets, tiles or leaks before storms set in. • Prepare an emergency kit – include water, non-perishable food, torch, batteries, first aid supplies and essential medications. • Make a family plan – know where you will go if flooding occurs, how you’ll stay in touch and keep important documents in a waterproof container. • Stay informed – monitor weather alerts from the Bureau of Meteorology, DFES and the Shire. • Look out for neighbours – check in on the elderly, vulnerable, or those new to the area who may not know what to expect. BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 11 Australian Warning System Stay informed with the new Australian Warning System and download the Emergency WA app to get notified as soon as a warning in place.
Community News RneuD, founded by local businesswoman and facilitator Hoozie Chapman, blends neuroscience, cultural intelligence and emotional intelligence to create programs that strengthen workplaces, enhance wellbeing and build resilience. Operating since late 2024, RneuD delivers tailored business solutions and leadership development across regional and remote WA, with clients ranging from Aboriginal corporations and small businesses to schools, healthcare providers, women’s groups and the creative industries. “RneuD is a renewed way of doing business, leadership and wellbeing in the Kimberley,” Hoozie said. “We translate complex brain science into practical, relatable tools that empower people to thrive both personally and professionally.” Through interactive workshops, coaching and digital programs, RneuD helps participants develop key skills in self-awareness, resilience and purpose-driven leadership. Programs are designed to be accessible for all levels of an organisation including frontline staff and executive teams, with a focus on inclusion and connection, particularly in remote communities where services are not always available. As founder Hoozie Chapman explains, “Stronger leaders create stronger teams and stronger teams create stronger communities. When people feel seen, supported, and equipped, everything shifts.” Recently, RneuD’s impact has been recognised on a larger stage. Most recently, RneuD won the Start Up and Sole Trader Awards at the Broome Business Awards. Further afield, the business also received a Certificate of Recognition at the 2025 Belmont and WA Small Business Awards in Perth. Hoozie is also nominated as a finalist in Women Changing the World Australia and Pacific Awards in four categories, including Rural and Remote Areas, Women in Education, Women in Fashion and Textiles. As RneuD continues to grow, Hoozie is developing new workshops and digital learning pathways to support leaders across the Kimberley and beyond. Her goal is clear: to help build safer, stronger and more connected workplaces as well as inspire others to lead with clarity, compassion and courage. RneuD brings neuroscience-backed leadership training to regional WA From Derby to Broome and beyond, a new Kimberley-grown business is helping organisations and individuals unlock their leadership potential in a whole new way. Across the Kimberley, many workplaces are navigating a common challenge: how to support people who are carrying heavy loads emotionally, mentally and culturally, while still expecting them to perform at a high level. That’s where RneuD steps in. 12 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 Contact Rneud Hoozie Chapman - Principal Facilitator & Founder www.rneud.com.au | www.hooziechapman.com.au +61 472 608 580
Expression of Interest 2026 Kimberley Art and Photographic Prize Advisory Group Be part of the art The Kimberley Art and Photographic Prize (KAPP) turns 55 in 2026 — that’s half a century of celebrating creativity, culture and community pride! As WA’s longest-running and largest regional art prize, it’s a cornerstone of Kimberley life… and we want you to be part of the story. We’re on the lookout for enthusiastic locals to join the KAPP 2026 Advisory Group — a volunteer crew that helps shape one of the Kimberley’s most iconic cultural events. Expect brainstorming sessions, event buzz and plenty of laughs along the way. What You’ll Do You’ll help bring the magic together — from early ideas and event planning to community connections, artist engagement and on-the-ground fun when the big night rolls around. We’re after people who: • Love art, photography, culture or just good company • Enjoy a laugh and a creative challenge • Can make it to monthly catch-ups (in person or online) • Are keen to pitch in when needed and share ideas freely • Bring positivity, teamwork and a bit of flair What You’ll Get • Experience in arts and event coordination (and a few good stories) • The joy of being part of an iconic Kimberley event with a 55-year legacy • New friendships with artists and locals from across the region How to Get Involved Send us a short Expression of Interest that includes: • Your name and contact details • A few lines about your background or interests • Why you’d love to join the KAPP 2026 Advisory Group Email: kimberleyartprize@sdwk. wa.gov.au Deadline: Thursday, 21 November BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 13
Derby Reunion Reuniting Old Friends As reported in the June edition of the Babbling Boabs, our Derby Junior High School reunion took place as planned and to put it simply it was a tremendous success and enjoyed by everyone. You can’t put words to describe the joyous feeling in the room when we all first got together for a meal at the Spini, an appropriate location for all of us I think. The Spini (the original version) was a favourite place for entertainment and catch ups back in those days! Fifty youngsters (none of us admitting to our more mature years), caught up with school mates from the sixties and seventies, some of whom we hadn’t see for sixty years! Stories aplenty went around the Spini dining room as memories were revived and long forgotten adventures were remembered. We had Derbyites from as far as Queensland, Perth, Albany, Donnybrook, Broome and beyond. The next day we reconnected, firstly some of us at the CWA markets and then at the Derby District High School, where we were very ably shown around the school by Paul Noble. Of course the old High School classrooms were long gone but the good old Primary School classrooms brought back many memories for all. The absolutely fantastic guided tour provided by Paul Noble was really appreciated by all and the school, the grounds, the artwork by students on the buildings drew lots of comments about the amazing talent and the whole modern look of our old school, thanks to the awesome work by Mark Davidson we gathered in the Max Clark Auditorium and thoroughly enjoyed, along with lots of laughs and memories, the slide and photo show put together by Mark. On Sunday we regrouped for something to eat and enjoyed the tour and great conversation with Mark Norval along with the very impressive local artwork on display. This was followed by a bus tour, with the ever ready bus driver Tony Gavranich and guided by our own Bron Jones. The tour took in the Kimberley Art Prize, Mowanjum Art Centre, Prison Boab Tree, Myalls Bore and Sculptures on the Marsh, to name a few. Our reunion finished at another favourite destination for all of us in our youth, the Derby Port. Here we enjoyed some food and drinks and caught up on what we had seen and done over the last three days. Many commitments were made to keep in touch and we enjoyed the company of many friends again in Derby followed by fond farewells. Our School Reunion will join the wonderful memories we all have of our youth in Derby. I for one got a lot out of the three days and take this opportunity to express my very sincere thanks to the following people who, without hesitation, contributed to our Derby Junior High School reunion: • Emmanuel Dillon and his Staff at the Spini, with very little notice, put on a fine meal and welcomed us. • Don Dunbar, Derby Bus Service with the key word14 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025
• being service. Don put his bus at our disposal on Sunday and this gesture is so much appreciated by all. • Tony Gavranich, bus driver extraordinaire, without hesitation Tony volunteered his services. • Bron Jones, our Derby guide who jumped into the position despite only being asked the day before. • Paul Noble, an absolute rock star who provided our school tour with a most comprehensive and informative guide around the school. • Mark Norval, for your talk on all things Derby and welcome to the Gallery. • To Peta Smallshaw, for the most awesome cake on the day of the school tour which was not only delicious, but a work of art in itself with the school emblem/ flag on it! To my small gang of co-conspirators, thank you for taking up the challenge and the idea and making it happen!!! To all who attended, thank you! Peter McCumstie Community Grants Program Strengthens Opportunities to locals All funding has now been allocated for Round 1 of the Shire’s Community Grants Program. Already this financial year, the program has helped strengthen our community in many meaningful ways. Funding has supported a range of initiatives, including: • Wildlife West – for training and capacity building • Looma Op Shop – purchase of a washing machine • Derby Home and Community Care – to attend the Australian Community Transport Association National Conference • Derby Sporting Shooters – for IT equipment upgrades • Derby Landcare Group – for the purchase of a new slasher to support local operations • Masters AFL National Carnival – supporting attendance at the 2025 event The Shire extends its thanks and appreciation to all the community groups and individuals who have accessed the program so far. Each funded initiative contributes to the vibrancy, resilience and connectedness of our towns and communities. Keep an eye out for announcements when Round 2 applications open in December 2025. BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 15
Call for Volunteers! Get involved in your local community Derby is home to a wide range of volunteer organisations that make a real difference in our town. From supporting local events and caring for the environment to helping community members in need, volunteering is a great way to meet people, learn new skills and give back to the community. Here are some of the local groups and organisations where you can get involved: CWA (Country Women’s Assocation) Derby Focused on supporting women and families in the community through social events and community service projects. Contact - derbycwa@gmail.com Derby Landcare Group Focused on environmental conservation, working to protect and restore our town’s natural environments and landscapes. Contact - landcarederby@gmail.com Derby Animal Welfare Group Dedicated to the care, rescue and rehoming of animals in need and promoting animal welfare. Contact - dawgderby@gmail.com Wharfinger House Museum Volunteers assisting with museum operations and engaging the community with local heritage. Contact - sdwk@sdwk.wa.gov.au Volunteer Organisations Boab Festival Committee Responsible for organising and coordinating the annual Boab Festival, celebrating our community. Contact - boabfestival@gmail.com Provides rural firefighting, rescue and emergency support during bushfire threats. Contact - hgbfb6728@ gmail.com Derby SES Provides emergency response and support to the community during disasters and rescue operations. Contact - derbyses@bigpond.com Derby Volunteer Fire and Rescue Provides firefighting, rescue and emergency support to protect the local community. Contact - derbyvfrs@bigpond.com Emergency Services Derby Marine Rescue Group Ensuring safety on the water, providing search and rescue operations and support during emergencies. Contact - admin@derbyvmrg.com Fitzroy Crossing Volunteer Fire and Rescue Provides firefighting, rescue and emergency support to protect the local community. Contact - Khendon 0467 263 232 Hamlet Grove Bushfire Brigade 16 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025
Sporting Groups Derby Basketball Association Basketball training, tournaments and training for players of all ages and skill levels. Contact - derbybasketballassociation@gmail.com Derby Boxing Club Training and competition opportunities for all skill levels, promoting fitness and skill development. Contact - derbyboxing6728@gmail.com Derby Beach Volleyball Opportunities for players of all levels to enjoy and compete in friendly games every Thursday night. Derby Netball Association Netball leagues and events, offering opportunities for players to compete and develop their skills. Contact - derbynetballassoc@gmail.com Derby Sharks Swimming Club Coaching and competitive opportunities for swimmers of all ages and abilities Contact - derbysharksswimming@gmail.com Derby Outback and Horse Riders Association Horseback riding and equestrian events for riders of all levels in Derby, hosting the annual Derby Rodeo and Campdraft. Contact - treasurer.drha@outlook.com Derby Tigers Football Club AFL team competing in the West Kimberley Football League, with regular practice sessions. Contact - dtfc6728@gmail.com Mary Island Fishing Club Hub for fishing enthusiasts, with regular fishing competitions and events. Contact - MIfishDerby@hotmail.com West Kimberley Turf Club Hosting and organising the annual Derby Cup, the Club supports the maintenance of the Racecourse. Contact - westkimberleyturfclub@gmail.com Derby Speedway Club Hosting regular events and fostering a community of racing enthusiasts at our local speedway track. Contact - secretaryspeedway@gmail.com Derby Sports Shooters Dynamic shooting club offering a safe and supportive environment to practice enthusiasts skills. Contact - derbysportsshoot@gmail.com Derby Sportsmans Club Set at one of the the most picturesque Golf Courses, the Club offers events, competitions and social play. Contact - derbysportsclubinc@bigpond.com Fitzroy Valley Rodeo Club Horseback riding and equestrian events, hosting the Fitzroy Crossing Annual Campdraft and Rodeo. Contact - Sally 0402 251 170 Fitzroy Crossing Base Fitness Fitness classes run by local volunteers for local community members to engage in health and fitness. Contact - Sheree 0461 336 867 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 17
EVENTS CALENDAR Upcoming Events 25 November - 10 December 16 Days in WA Thursday 27 November Santa CWA Night Markets Wednesday 3 December International Day of People with Disability Wednesday 3 December International Volunteer Day Dinner Stay tuned for dates Santa Lolly Run - Derby and Fitzroy Crossing Hosting a community event you’d like promoted? Contact us at media@sdwk. wa.gov.au to have your event featured. For more information on events, call 9191 0999 or email sdwk@sdwk.wa.gov.au. Derby Woolshed – A Link to Our Working Past The Derby Woolshed, located on Loch Street, stands as a proud reminder of Derby’s early days as a bustling port town and gateway to the West Kimberley. Built in 1900, the woolshed formed part of the Derby Tramway system, which carried wool, goods and livestock between the town and the jetty across the tidal flats. The tramway was first constructed in 1885–1886, then extended in the 1890s up Loch and Delawarr Streets. This extension likely helped transport fill material used to strengthen the causeway, a vital link between town and port. In its earliest years, the tramway was powered by Clydesdale horses, which became well known around Derby for their strength and reliability. The first diesel engine didn’t arrive until 1938, marking a new era in local transport. By the 1950s, much of the line had been removed, with only the section from Johnston and Loch streets to the jetty still in operation. Around this time, the woolshed was rebuilt and altered to suit changing needs, while a new goods shed was added in 1957. Another shed, brought from Wyndham in 1962, reflected the continuing importance of regional trade links. Today, the Woolshed remains in fair condition and is State Heritage listed for its historical and cultural value. It represents an era of innovation and hard work that helped shape Derby’s identity as a hub for industry, transport and community in the heart of the Kimberley. Courtesy of Shire of Derby/West Kimberley Local Studies Collection 18 BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025
When the wet season arrives in the West Kimberley, the landscape changes almost overnight. After months of dry weather, the first big rains bring new life to the region — turning the red earth green and filling rivers and creeks. Native grasses and wildflowers quickly come to life. Mulla mulla, kapok trees and native lilies begin to bloom, adding colour across the plains and along creek lines. Boab trees sprout fresh green leaves and white flowers, which attract insects and nectar-feeding birds. The increase in water brings animals out too. Frogs can be heard calling through the night, breeding in the newly formed puddles and pools. Barramundi and other freshwater fish move upstream, taking advantage of the fast-flowing rivers. Birdlife becomes especially active at this time of year. Waterbirds such as egrets, herons and magpie geese gather around the flooded areas, while smaller birds like rainbow bee-eaters and finches make the most of the abundance of insects. Goannas, snakes and crocodiles are also more commonly seen as they take advantage of the warmer, wetter conditions. Even with the challenges of heavy rain and flooded roads, the wet season is an important and beautiful time in the Kimberley. It’s a reminder of how resilient the environment is and how much the rain sustains life across our region. Flora and Fauna of the Wet Season BABBLING BOABS NOVEMBER 2025 19
BABBLING BOABS For Shire information head to our website sdwk.wa.gov.au @ShireofDerbyWestKimberley For Visitor and Tourism Information australiasboabcountry.com.au @AustraliasBoabCountry Kimberley Art and Photographic Prize kappawards.com.au @KimberleyArtandPhotographicPrize WORK WITH US Looking for a career change or new opportunity? Check out the Shire’s available positions on their website - sdwk.wa.gov.au SUBMIT YOUR STORY TO BE FEATURED Share your story in the Babbling Boabs! Get in contact with us to find out how we can share your news story, update or event. Contact us at media@sdwk.wa.gov.au
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