After a challenging few years marked by declining numbers and a sense of disconnection, Jarrahdale Playgroup is experiencing a heartfelt and inspiring revival, one built on community spirit, inclusion, and hope.

At the centre of this transformation is new President Sarah, whose leadership has helped spark a renewed sense of purpose. Alongside a passionate group of mums, dads, and grandparents, she has helped reshape the playgroup into a welcoming, safe, and vibrant space for local families.

This revival has not happened in isolation. It’s been powered by a remarkable wave of community support, with contributions from Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale, Playgroup WA, Jarrahdale Primary School, Alcoa, and Hugh Jones MP, among many others. Combined with more than 200 hours of volunteer time, these efforts have helped breathe new life into the playgroup and open its doors to a growing number of families.

One exciting milestone in this new chapter is the awarding of a grant to deliver a 10-week community dads’ workshop. Facilitated by Jo O’Dell of The Warriors Heart, the program is designed to bring fathers and grandfathers together to connect, reflect, and celebrate their roles within their families and the wider community.

The playgroup’s recent open morning was another powerful moment of renewal. Families gathered to witness a meaningful Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony led by Jack Collard, a proud Whadjuk-Ballardong man of the Noongar Nation. His words resonated deeply, highlighting the importance of community, the role of children within it, and the strength that comes from acknowledging the past while moving forward with positivity and connection to the land.

Today, Jarrahdale Playgroup stands as a shining example of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose and care. It is no longer a group searching for its identity, it is a place where families feel they belong, where connections are nurtured, and where the future feels bright.

Click here to hear what the Jarrahdale community has to say about this wonderful open day and playgroup!