Djilba Bidi – Roley Pools

Welcome to the final part of the Six Seasons Trails Series. Journey through Roley Pools Heritage Trail and boardwalk during the Djilba season, a time of renewal and new life, when yellow and cream wildflowers begin to bloom in abundance, marking the start of a vibrant seasonal transformation.

This 6-kilometre trail follows the path of the mystical Wagyl (Dreamtime serpent) along the banks of Djarlgarra Beelier  (the Canning River), where water flows year-round, creating a sanctuary for native wildlife. As you wander through the bushland, you’ll trace the footsteps of legendary bushranger Moondyne Joe, whose daring escapes made him a Western Australian icon.

Djilba is a transitional season, where crisp mornings give way to warmer days, bringing an explosion of wildflowers and increased wildlife activity. Look out for new generations of kangaroos, as their young emerge under the guidance of their parents. Overhead, Koolbardies (magpies) begin their protective swooping as woodland birds tend to their nests, and the sharp calls of Chuck-a-lucks (wattlebirds) and Djidi Djidis (willy wagtails) fill the air.

This area is steeped in history, both cultural and colonial. The original swimming hole at Roley Pools was a cherished meeting place for Noongar people and later became a community swimming spot in the early 1900s, where generations of locals learned to swim. The river also holds remnants of WA’s early European settlement, with Captain Charles Churchman establishing the first farm here in 1831.

The Djilba Bidi experience is a moderately challenging hike, offering stunning river views, cultural insights, and the chance to witness Djilba’s vibrant wildflower bloom firsthand. As the days lengthen and the warmth of Kambarang approaches, take this moment to slow down, reflect, and connect with the land’s seasonal rhythm.

The Six Seasons Trail Series is in partnership with major supporter, City of Armadale.