Roleystone Things to Do

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Just up from the Concourse and the Pool is the Margaret Simons Pergola. This long pergola was erected in memory of Margaret Simons 1860 – 1937 who was the wife of J.J. Simons. The pergola is reported to be one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and is made up of huge stone pillars topped with large jarrah logs. Recently it was refurbished and deteriorating timbers replaces.

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Araluen… a wonderful treasure set in a lush secluded valley in the Perth Hills, some 35 kms south east of Perth. Araluen is a botanical park known for its tulip showing in the Spring known as the ‘Yates Springtime in Araluen’. Along with the tulips, native wildflowers can be seen throughout the year as well as roses and other blooms. You maybe lucky and also see a kangaroo or wallaby on your walks.

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Scattered around the park are plenty of picnic areas, with table as well as electric barbeques which are provided free for visitors on the concourse area. There are also some wood-fired barbeque’s and firewood around the park. .

The Pool and Pergola area provides stone seating and walls which are used for outdoor events such as concerts throughout the year and Christmas Carols in December. Wintertime tends to clutter the pool with debris from surrounding trees.

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The Pool or artificial lake was completed in 1940 to replace the old one. On the western side a heavy stone pergola was built with 16 pillars 11ft high and on top, were heavy jarrah logs. The pergola was then draped with magnificent wisteria. Natural stones paved the area.

The gardens are fed by water from a storage dam on the northern boundary of the park. Water is also released from the Canning Dam from within the park which allows the creek flows throughout the Park all year around. Previously during the summer months, the water flow was either greatly diminished or non-existent.

The Log Cabin was built In 1931 and was built of natural round logs with the floor being of rough stones. The Canadian styled building had a fireplace and a front port which provided a wonderful view of the valley. All that remained of the building in 1990 was the fireplace and some of the foundations. A few roof trusses and window frames were found stacked nearby. It is not known who demolished the building. The site has now been converted into a shelter for visitors.

Araluen Park is a recognised heritage site, with both the gardens and the structures being viewed as State heritage treasures. The National Trust of Australia (WA) has classified Araleun and the property has been placed on the Municipal Inventory of Heritage Places and the Register of the Heritage Council of WA.