This site only shows Workaway & HelpX - References are verbatim, - "Warts 'n all" 👧

We also have references from Couchsurfing (24), Warmshowers(27),
Plus we have references from other less familiar websites.
We have NOT included them here

NO references have been omitted regardless of their rating.
We have not yet had a reference less than 4 star.

We have two Helpx and Workaway profiles, in both Thailand and Australia.
For those counting, you may need to read both profiles 🥴

Food Pictures on each side of this page, cooked by Lee - delicious vegan food.
the plates are assembled by each guest from dishes on the table.
Usually, rice/breads and three main two deserts, assorted fruits, ice cream, etc..

About 63 references - as they were written

Lian (D’re) 🇸🇽  Philippines Jan 2024

Absolutely my favourite couple in all of Australia: an inspiration and influence, should one be so fortunate. Their household is full of surprises - only GOOD ones that really are invaluable to a traveler. Kap khun ka❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

Greetings. I am fortunate enough to be accepted as the last guest of the highly respected Mr. Malcolm and Mrs. Sumalee (commonly known as Mal and Lee) along with their two fur babies Lily and Lola before they decided to take a break from hosting. I have had the best 2-week of quality time spent with them and I am forever grateful for how they actually give more than they receive in many aspects. The world needs more of them.

Review written by Eleonora Italy from "Worldpackers"

Mal and Lee taught me a lot about the vegan lifestyle, the Thai culture and the Buddhist community and for this it was a 360° cultural experience.
I loved playing an active role in the local community by collecting food at the shops that would eventually be distributed to the needy. It was also interesting to do some painting at their house but mostly I enjoyed cooking new vegan recipes in the kitchen.
Both Mal and Lee are easy people to be around with and chat. Mal is well informed about history and facts in general while Lee is a great cook. Wish them and their cute chiwawas all the best.

Review written by Erika Italy from "Worldpackers"

Mal and Lee are very kind people who will make you feel like a member of the family. They always make sure that you get to eat well and they will provide you with all the commodities you need in your room. Lily and Lola are their lovable and well behaved chihuahua who will keep you company. I enjoyed helping Mal in collecting food from the markets to be distributed to the needy.
Lee never failed in cooking delicious vegan food.
I am thankful to have made such a beautiful experience and I am happy to have been helpful. Thank you :)

Review written by Brigitte from "Worldpackers" PERU 🇵🇪  - 22-11-22

Mal & Lee were excellent hosts during my stay at their home. I loved learning about their culture and volunteering and I think I improved my English. Lola and Lily are their two Chihuahuas and I loved spending time with them too. Lee cooks delicious. Thanks for everything!

Feedback left by Helper Tony,  China , Nov 8, 2022

I have been staying at MalandLee’s place for about 10 days and had a great time there, MalandLee are so warm, sweet and patient people and the place is so quiet and beautiful. Two little Chihuahua Lily and Lola are adorable, it is hard to not like them

1. Accommodation: Mal picked me from the train station (even though he was busy that day). They offered me a very nice room, super clean, cozy, tidy, with washed towers, top sheet etc.. and a nice desk and chair, the internet was super fast. Through window you will see MalandLee’s beautiful garden. They treat you as an important guest (I mean they really care about you).

2. Food: MalandLee is a plant-based family, every single meal (from breakfast to dinner) was different and well prepared with variety of fruit (apple, pineapple, avocado, grapes, banana…countless), rice (Indian rice, Australian rice, Thai rice…), countless vegetables. One of helpers is gluten free, so Lee cooked every meal carefully with no gluten and she is definitely a good cooker (she knows everything about cuisine) with tons of food safety knowledges. After staying here, you will definitely start loving plant food. Have to say thank you again to Lee for the ginger tea she made for me, which cured my cough.

3. Work: Every work days morning Mal and me will go to do volunteer’s work about 1 hour long (not counted). And later will do some weeding jobs, not too much work for me during my stay. Felt so sorry that I couldn’t help with painting, tiling and plastering.

To sum up, I have to say tons of thanks to MalandLee, I have learned a lot of knowledge about food, life experiences and Mal told me many stories I never heard in my life, he knows history and the latest news, everything is in his head, a very cool guy.
Will miss here and keep in touch 🙏

Feedback left by Helper Raphael OLLA  France  🇫🇷 - Nov 7, 2022

I had a great 3 weeks. The food is excellent, it's the restaurant every day. Mal and Lee were very patient with me although I didn't speak English well. Everything I needed when I arrived in Australia. Thanks to them 🙏🏼

Raphael

Feedback left by Helper Tanguy and Julien  France  🇫🇷 - Nov 7, 2022

We enjoyed our time with you. The food and the atmosphere are perfect! We highly recommend this exchange as we learn a lot.

Thanks again and see you soon! 🙌🏽

Feedback left by Helpers Kelly & Rudy  France 🇫🇷 - Nov 4, 2022

Mal & Lee are lovely people with big hearts and we were really lucky to be with them for our first steps in Western Australia. We felt like at home from the first day.
We spent a month in July with them, and are now back for a few days. (Because they are so coool !)
Mal knows so many things that you will learn every day. We exchanged a lot which helped us to improve our English.
We also went to the Buddhist temple and it was a nice experience. Don't forget Lee's cooking which is really excellent.
As for work, we helped Mal with his voluntary work and also with some renovation of a house, work that is very accessible to all.
And for the animal lovers, there is a nice surprise, Lili and Lola! But that's all I can say.
We really recommend you to stay with them if you can, you will have a pleasant stay, learn a lot and will never forget these people.

Thank you again for everything you have done for us and are still doing.
We wish you the best.

Your friends,
Kelly & Rudy

Feedback left by Helper (Remy) China Sep 1, 2022

Mal and Lee are warm-hearted and considerate; it was a great honour to know them and I had a wonderful time with them.

Mal is well-informed and humorous, Lee is understanding and always thinks positively. Gardening and painting are all novel experiences for me; I learned a lot from this amazing couple and had a first glimpse of one of the Aussie lifestyles. To be honest, I’m clumsy and didn’t help them much, but they didn’t blame me and showed great patience and gave me a lot of support, even if sometimes I made things worse and caused trouble. Gosh, I wish I were a skilled helper that could give back. They showed me the local area, took me to temples, and met their lovely neighbours, making me feel at home. Mal is well-organized, you can tell that easily from their profile, personal website, etc. He even showed me how to get to the bus stop via Google Maps before I left their home. Lee makes fantastic vegan food which is far beyond my expectation! She always keeps the house tidy. They do what they can for the convenience of helpers.

They are the first host family I stayed with not only in Australia but in my life, and I’ll never forget them. I’m not good at expressing my feelings, especially in a foreign language, but I appreciated everything they did for me from the bottom of my heart. I wish both of them healthy and happy.

Feedback left by Helper (Timber)   China May 1, 2022

Feedback left by Helper (Isobel)   United Kingdom Feb 28, 2022

Mal & Lee were kind enough to take me in at quite short notice - despite circumstances not being ideal for them - were enormously hospitable. It was a real pleasure to share in visiting a temple with them, sampling some of Lee's incredible vegan food, and helping Mal out with his volunteer work. I learnt a lot from both of them in quite a short time:)

Feedback left by Helper  (Erisa)  🇯🇵 JAPAN -  15th  July 2021

It was really good experience to live with Mal and Lee. I stayed in this house for six weeks. Mal has a lot of knowledge and he will help you many kinds of problem. He has interested about everything, maybe you can discover a lot of things that you didn't know when you talk with him. Lee is super good at cooking, I really like her meals and also she taught me how to cook. Even it's no oils, no meats and no sugar, it was surprisingly delicious. There are plenty of foods, so you won't be hungry. Both of them are entirely nice people. They treat us like family. Thank you for everything, I enjoyed stayed in here and leaned a lot of things, I hope Mal and Lee stay healthy. I will see you guys before I leave Perth:)

 
Feedback left by Helper (Michael) - 08/July/2021

I don’t really know where to start. Mal & Lee are some of the most caring and interesting people I have ever met and I had very enjoyable time staying with them and learning from them. Covid definitely disrupted our stay with them, despite that I stilled learned a lot and got to see some of Perth. The work was easy and enjoyable. Mal and Lee will not work you to the ground and are very understanding if you have plans that mean you can not work for a day.

Working in the ga]rden in the sun was relaxing and rewarding seeing the results. Hopefully some of the other plants can thrive now that the rocket has been thinned. Cleaning and organising the sheds was easy work and with the music going timed just flied doing this job. Mal had quite the laugh when we pulled out a floppy disc and asked what is was. Apparently they were quite the technology back before my time.

 The accommodation is neat and tidy and it’s not long before it starts feeling like you are in your second home, especially with the meals Lee cooks up. She knows a lot about cooking and it was a joy helping her in the kitchen and learning about how to cook whole food plant based meals. Many people seem to thinks these meals can’t taste good but I don’t think I’ve ever eaten better than the week I stayed with Mal and Lee. I have already started making nut dips and vegan gluten free bread. Definitely not as good as Lee’s yet but I’ll get there eventually. Through talking with Mal and Lee and learning about the health benefits and how easy it can be I have become gluten free and vegan. Hopefully I’ll feel a change in my health in the coming months.

 Mal is like a walking talking search engine. He knows an insane amount of facts and information about a vast array of subjects and is more then willing to share his knowledge if you are willing to listen. We quite often sat around after dinner talking for at least an hour talking about global issues, religion, diet, fungi and his life story (which is pretty incredible). These conversations intrigued me and made me realise how narrow minded I am and that I should broaden my thoughts from what’s just there in front of me to encompass the bigger picture.

 To sum it up staying with Lee and Mal is an unforgettable experience and you are bound to learn something new. When I go back to Western Australia I will be sure to drop in and say good aye.

Feedback left by Helper (Talia) - 08/July/2021

I had an amazing time at Mal and Lee’s place! With all the curve balls thrown at us with covid and government regulations, I couldn’t have ended up in a more caring household! I learnt so much about the variety of foods and meals you can cook as a vegan and have decided to give it a go. Lee is an incredible cook with not a single cookbook insight she whips up some of the most delicious (and as a bonus insanely healthy) meals I’ve had! From cashew dips and gluten-free, vegan bread to rice noodle stir fry and chickpea tofu! Thank you so much for sharing and I will definitely attempt some of the meals. Mal, with his wealth of knowledge, shared a plethora of incredible information on the world, diet and health, fungi and life stories from which I learnt so much. The many conversations and documentaries influence my view on how people operate and think and make decisions. Thank you for taking the time to share this with us. I had fun rediscovering the veggie garden and hope the snails decide next door is a nicer home! Sorting the sheds and making everything look pretty was also quite fun with the music going and the sun shining- time flies when you’re having fun. I hope you don’t get hit with another lockdown! Thanks so much for using us.

Feedback left by Helper  (Lian) 🏳️‍🌈 Philippines/USA - Jan 10, 2021

Lee and Mal probably get along with EVERYBODY. I can’t believe there is so few reviews because from what I understand, they have hosted over 1000 people and with good reason. Their situation makes one wish to stay “forever;” I actually was prepared to. I have learned so much from them and thanks to them have a new lease on life. This coming from a transgender lesbian ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜perhaps I can’t thank Lee and Mal enough!!!
Host Reply - from Mal & Lee. Hi Lian, our friends (In Belgium) have had more than 1000 guests, we have had about 300+++ guests, We are members of many platforms, for 14 years, HelpX is just one of the platforms, we only joined here in 2017. Great having you stay with us, Love - Mal & Lee

Feedback Left by Osh & Stefano  Dec 28, 2020

Mal & Lee are warm and welcoming people, with interesting stories to share. They welcome us very kindly with a short notice and made us feel at home. We had few tough days before we met them and even so, we were able to enjoy the time we spent with them. Thank you for your hospitality and amazing dinner. We Hope to meet you again. And make It properly.

Feedback left by Helper  Lisa from Austria  for Mal & Lee 07/12/2020

 

Lee & Mal are one of the kindest people I have met in my life. They are both full of knowledge and I can guarantee that you’ll learn something new every day.
 The work in the garden is not hard and Lee&Mal make sure that you don’t exhaust yourself too much. They also are aware of the weather conditions and won’t expect you to work when it’s too hot or rainy.
 Lee is a great cook and I was able to pick up a lot of recipes and tips from her. I also really enjoyed our conversations during cooking.
 Mal likes to have conversations about everything that is going on in the world. It’s always been a pleasure to learn from him.
 I have lots of respect for them because they help other people and communities out and also try to find ways to make our planet more sustainable.
 Mal has lots of documentaries for people who are interested in topics like the environment, veganism, climate change, etc. He’ll be more than happy to watch them with you.
 Other then that you get to learn about different cultures. Which is always great!
 Thanks from the bottom of my heart to the both of you. I really enjoyed my stay and am so happy that I got to meet you two.
 I wish you all the best, take care!
 

Left By Helper: Jiao Li (Kayla) From: CHINA for hosts Mal & Lee 9-Nov-2020

 

I stayed at their house for 9 days in total. Since coming to Australia, I have never felt so peaceful and comfortable. Thank you very much Mal and Lee. When I finished my last job and flew back to Perth, they came to pick up free of charge. Then I felt very sorry for making them wait for more than half an hour because my flight was delayed.
 
But after they picked me up, they took me home, a very cozy single room, even with various bath towels and slippers. After that, the daily work was also very easy, because I was very slow while doing the jobs, but Mal and Lee also understood me very well. Although I am not very good at cooking, I have practiced how to make dumplings at their house. Lee also taught me a lot of cooking knowledge.
 
Mal is very knowledgeable and taught me a lot of knowledge about the world,environment,animal....I will try to be vegetarian slowly. When I left, thank them very much for taking me to the train station. It was a very good experience.. and I told my every friend that I had a great homestay experience in Perth,.
 
I hope Mal and Lee can always be healthy, happy every day, younger and younger day by day,and live a long life till more than 100 years old.Thank you so much for what you have done for me, already miss them....
 

Left By Helper: Aria From: CHINA for hosts Mal & Lee -  24th May 2020

 

I spent a very pleasant four weeks at Mal and Lee's house.They are very nice and warm-hearted.They treated me like family.Mal is very knowledgeable and teached me a lot of things.Lee can cook many different delicous food like Thai food,Italy food,Australia food ect.Everyday's meal is different and very healthy.She knows I like desserts, and she often shares the desserts made by her friends.When the weather gets cold, they will ask me if I have enough warm clothes.When I was looking for a job, they gave me a lot of help.When i go out for a long walk without back home,they will check if i get lost.During this difficult time,i feel so lucky to live with Mal and Lee.If I have chance ,i will come back.I already miss them.
 

Left by Helper "Dillon" From CANADA -  for hosts Mal & Lee 18/02/2020

 

Mal and Lee are wonderful hosts and people to stay with.
 I was picked up my Mal at the train station. The whole stay there was clear communication. Lee cooked amazing vegan meals daily and there was an abundance of variety of food and colors to choose from all so delicious and healthy. I'm was very pleased with the variety of healthy food available. Mal always had clear communication and was a great man to be around and it was a pleasure listening to his stories about his world travels. He is a very knowledgeable man and it was great to converse with each other. I was planning a bike-packing trip and needed to get equipped. Both Mal and Lee helped me as much as they could to get ready for the trip, taking me out to local stores to pick things up. They went out of their way to make sure I was fully equipped and prepared. They were so generous gifting me many items and food to make my trip as good as it could be. I'm very greatful and happy for this workaway experience. Thank you Mal and Lee.
 

Left by Helper “Darren” From the UK -  for hosts Mal & Lee 14/02/2020

 

I stayed with Mal and Lee when I first arrived in Australia on my round the world cycle trip. (Mal and Lee have also extensively cycle toured around the world too). It was an absolute pleasure to meet them and work for them. Mal is a font of knowledge and let me get on with any work needed with minimal supervision. Meals were an absolute delight as Lee is an amazing chef! The area has some lovely walks and the lake of course. It was an absolute pleasure to chat with them both and they made my first few days in Australia a pleasure. Mal also took me to his local bike shop where I was able to order some new tyres prior to cycling across Australia. I can't recommend them enough.
 
Thank you both.
 

Left by Helper Bruno from Brazil - for hosts Mal & Lee - 11/02/2020

 

I can’t think of enough words to thank Mal and Lee properly, because it was such a great experience. It was my first workaway, and I couldn’t think of a better way to start then this. I really enjoyed working there, it was a fare amount of work and, on top of that, I could eat some amazing vegan food that Lee cooked. Also, it was so important to me having so many chats with Mal, I could learn a lot with him, and rethink my habits and be more concern about environment. So, Thank you for this opportunity!!
 

Left by Helper Luiza from Brazil - for hosts Mal & Lee 02/02/2020
 

Staying with Mal and Lee was an amazing experience. They are both extremely caring and make everything possible for you to feel at home. Lee is an incredible cook (I'm already missing her food!) and Mal is incredibly smart and can discuss pretty much any topic with an impressive knowledge. They taught me a lot about plant-based diet (as well as geography, politics and so on), making me rethink my habits and providing me with information that can be very helpful to my job in the future. They are both amazing people and I couldn't have asked for better hosts. Mal and Lee, thank you for everything!
 

** Helper: Daniel - Germany.  - Reference Left 17-1-2020  **

 

Mal and Lee are gorgeous. I could not expect a better start coming to Australia. Immediately when I arrived in there home it felt like I became a part of the family. You get your own furnished room with desk, wardrobe and bed. super fast Internet access and the best healthiest food that you can imagine. I never, before and after, felt so healthy as during my 3 weeks with them. It is amazing what meals (mostly) Lee creates. They also helped me to set me up for a longer bike trip and I could use Mal's tools as well. They do have bikes that you can use to go around. The nearby champions lake is perfect for a swim during hot (and not so hot) days or just for a walk du watch the sunset. Don't be afraid to start discussions-Mal is so knowledgeable about everything that happens in the universe, it was a enrichment of life to listen to him. I can not tell how thankful I am to met you and be part of your family for a short period of time.
 

Helper: Younesse and Fatima From: France    Date: January 8, 2020

 

We just spent two weeks at Mal and Lee's house, it was our first helpx, and even the first time we slept with other people.
 I wanted to do helpx mainly to learn Australian life and to exchange, and I was not disappointed, it was a very good experience, the adventure in Australia starts well.
 Mal is always ready to help, he helped me with my resume cover letter, how to apply, always ready to give advice, he was extremely kind to us. We can talk about all subjects.
 For work, it's simple and really very easy, and he's accommodating, he even gave us free days !!! we will always be grateful.
 At the beginning when I saw vegan I was wondering what are we going to eat? and the Lee arrived and what a cooker she made me forget the meat, the fish and the rest, I have never eaten vegetables so well in my life, there are always a lot of dishes and very varied.
 The house is located near a lake ideal for spending time in hot weather.
 Thank you very much Mal and Lee, We are grateful for what you have done for us. thank you so much
 

Helper: Claire Petit   From: France    Date: January 3, 2020

 


I spent 9 days with Mal and Lee, just after I arrived in Australia.
 It helped me to get started here, as they spent quite some time sharing tips and experience about the Australian lifestyle and job market. They were globally really helpful and kind.
 
They're we're eager to share their vegan lifestyle as well. Mal and Lee have an extensive knowledge about the vegan diet. In hindsight, I would say that this experience will have long-lasting effects on my personal eating habits. The meals provided are flavourful and really diverse. Lee makes sure to provide sereval dishes, so there is always something for everyone.
 Moreover, we had hour-long conversations all along my stay, which were quite interesting.
 
When it comes to work, it was pretty light and easy. It was a bit of gardening (potting and weeding) and cooking or housekeeping.
 
The accommodation provided is comfortable, with one private room per helper. The house is located near a rail station, and the train will get you to Perth CBD in less than a half-hour. There is a shopping centre in Kelmscott too, where I found all the common necessities.
 

Mal and Lee, I wish you the best! Kind regards, Claire

Helper: Shanshan kong From: China    December 6, 2019

 

Hello Mal & Lee,,,,,,,,,,
 I just stayed in their house for 9 days and It was my first experience for homestay.
 It is a great experience for me and just like my home in Australia:)
 Mal is very knowledgeable and lee is always good at cooking. You have no idea how she could cook so many different food even they are vegans but I have so many different choices made by vegetables or beans, really unbelievable for me.
 everyday not much work for me actually and they take me to Buddhist temple, flea market(Asian market). I never was in Australia but first time I was warmly welcome by Mal & lee.
 We talked a lots of things about china, but for me everything seems so far and so close. We have different mindset but we are the same human beings (Mal told me ). Actually this takes me some time to absorb. But now, I realized No matter where we are, people are mostly same.
 By taking Mal & lee's good wish, I will keep exploring Australian land ,traveling people.
 I think I will write down my feelings of experience. I also need to study a lot about the world, history, geography and everything, hahah
 I am 28 after this month, and I ever thought I was old for traveling but now I never feel so young like this moment, thanks Mal & lee.
 hope to see you again.
 

Helper: Jelena RAJCIC    From: France    Date: December 4, 2019

 

I spent 11 days at Mal & Lee's house and what a wonderful experience. I enjoyed every moment I spent with them. This was my first experience as a Helpx and I couldn't have dreamed better. They are people with a big heart and open-minded. There is no taboo with them and it's great. We talked a lot and laughed a lot too.
 
About work, there is not much to do. You will have time to enjoy Perth and its surroundings.
 
I discovered new products, a new way of eating and I loved it! Lee is really passionate about cooking and I loved helping her.
 
I cannot express my gratitude to them and their kindness.
 
Thank you so much !
 
I'm sad to be gone. I'm going to miss you! You are welcome in France and Serbia
 I wish you all the best.
 
Don't forget that I make the best banana bread !
 
Cheers mate ! :)
 

Left by Workawayer (Estelle & Julia) for host for (French) November/2019

 

We had a lovely first "workaway" experience at Mal and Lee’s. We were very happy to help them with tasks in the garden and around the house, and stayed a couple of weeks. They are both very nice, welcoming and generous persons. Lee is a wonderful cook and prepared delicious vegan meals … every dinner was a feast! Mal helped us so much, bringing us where we needed to go, searching and buying a car, getting our camping gear together … They have been very helpful with everything, thank you Mall & Lee!
 
Estelle & Julia
 

Left by Workawayer Tinka (Ann-Kathrin) (German) November/2019

 

My time at Mal and Lee's was amazing. I only stayed with them for a week but even though it was just a short time, they treated me like family.
 I helped with task around the house and in the garden, worked by myself or together with Mal and/or Lee. In exchange I got accomodation and food - the most delicious food, vegan food. Lee is an incredible chef and prepared fresh meals everyday. (Thanks Lee for showing me all this new recipes!)
 This two people are so heartwarming and caring. They do everything they can to make you feel comfortable, to make you feel at home and to feel safe. They have been super helpful with everything and as I mentioned before, took me on as a new family member for a week, including taking me along to a cultural ceremony at a Buddhist temple they go to regularly. Actually us, as I was there with a friend.
 Couldn't have asked for a better place to stay, to work and to live. ??
 (Excellent )
 

Helper: Qiling HU    From: China    Date: October 31, 2019

 

Very comfortable stay (7 days)with Mal&Lee!!! Not too much work to do,just gardening ,dish washing and packing.I really enjoy the VEGAN food.They showed me the Buddhism temple and gave some advice about my job.They are really nice to share things with others.Mal also helped mail my Bupa card and scan the TFN letter to me.Hope Mal&Lee will be better in the future. By the way, can I know where to buy the burger ‘meat’,it is really delicious! Cheers.
 

Helper:Lucy     From: United Kingdom    Date: October 7, 2019

 

To Mal and Lee,
 Thank you from the bottom of my heart for inviting me into your life. The impact your wise words, culture, videos and music, Buddhist teachings, vegan cooking and kindness will stay with me. Rarely do you meet people who genuinely care about a stranger and will do anything to make you feel at home in a new place. It was so much fun sitting around a table filled with delicious food, talking about every issue under the sun with no fear of judgement. I have learnt so much from you both which has already filtered into my every day life. I wish you both health and happiness and that Lee is back to her old self soon. I hope you realise the positive impact you have had on me at a time when I needed it.
 Love Lucy
 

(Couchsurfers - Hybrid Listing, inc Helpx) Guido Huwiler Olten, Solothurn, Switzerland - Sep 2019

 

A gift to stay with the big heardet couple Mal & Lee in there warm and causy house for 3 night's.
 
We have been spoiled with home made, fresh vegan food every day. Talking and laughing with this two passieneted touring bikers made our start in Aussi-land verry easely. We got many good tips for our bicyle trip through Australia.
 
We can warmly recommend this wonderful, quiet place, close to Perth city.
 
Guido and Rita, worldpush-bike cylists from Switzerland
 

Helper: LIMIN and YONGLIN    From: China    Date: September 15, 2019

 

We really feel very thankful and lucky to meet Mal&Lee, they are very kind and considerable. The three weeks we spent together is one of the best time of my current life.
 
When we suffered some bad treatment from last host, Mal came and picked us up from that house and told us we would be taken care. Everytime we arrive at the train station near home, we can see Mal is on his car and waiting for us. It really makes us feel warm. Besides, he also teach us a lot about the world, the history, the politics, how to live a healthy life and so many knowledge. What inspire most is he cares not only about himself or his family but also the whole world. He ever told me he feel very sad about the pollution of the world, human kill animals but animals also have their lives, except we look different we are all the same because we are all human beings. He shared many his stories which really raise me up and motivate myself to be a better person.
 Lee always feed us well,we can not imagine how vegan food can be so delicious before.She will change her recipe to suit our flavor.Eveytime they go out for shopping seems like bring the whole shop home,we know that they just want to feed us as much as they can.We learned much not only about kitchen,cook and housekeeping,but also qualities of hardworking from her.
 They ask us to be like our own home here and suggest us to invite our friends for dinner.They threat us like their families,Lee made birthday cake for me and they drove us to new house with the food they prepared.They are our families in Australia,we never feel alone in Australia cause they welcome us back at any time.
 We are so thankful what they had treated us and took care of us.We saw good qualities from them.Hope they live happy and healthy.We will be back to visit you.
 

Helper: Nikki Chen     From: China    Date: August 18, 2019

 

I've been staying with Mal & Lee for 16 days, it was a wonderful helpx experience.
 Both of them are very knowledgable and considerable, help me a lot not only in accommodation and food but also the things to be done when first arrived in Aus.
 To be honest, it was my first time having Vegan food, i won't never ever believe vegan food can be so delicious until i met them, i have to say Lee is really an amazing cook. I will never forget the taste in my life.
 They take me to the temple to experience the different buddhism culture, they also introduce their friends to me, i felt that i was part of their family, so i really enjoy it.
 
Lee is a very kind people and always suggest me a lot, but i felt very sorry to her because she was seriously hurt due to helped me checking on the bicycle. In that days they try not to show any bad mood, but I can felt the worries and difference because they were a family full of love and happiness. I never telling them my feeling, but i think they can read my mind. Suffers makes people stronger, and I believe Lee can recover the soonest than any others because she is so strong minded.
 In the end, best wishes to Mal and Lee, and hope they can be happy and healthy everyday!
 

Helper: Yiying ZHU     From: China    Date: March 31, 2019

 

I am really grateful to have lived with Mal&Lee, they're a lovely couple, although less than a week, every day is excellent.
 
It was my first helpX experience and I was sooo lucky to meet them for my first time. Mal and Lee are very knowledgeable people, should be said to be very rich in knowledge and experience, and very patient at the same time. Mal said I am a cave dweller, but every day, we chat at the table when we have the meals let me benefit greatly, can take notes of the kind, if you like chatting, has your own opinions, in this house, you must be very interesting and wonderful.
 Mal's patience, he said I have many opportunities to be young, but also broaden my mind, has been encouraging you. Some of the great truth is that through the daily small dialogue, you can learn a lot. Thank you, Mal!
 
And about diet, Lee cooking is amazing, (Lee if you see, I owe you a meal, Looool), Lee can make delicious fresh food into a surprising meal, I love to eat each dish, thank you, Lee! But also very appreciated you as a woman, your views I can learn from which part I understand.
 This is my first contact with vegan, and I've learned more through the web, and I'll try to be a vegetarian, and that's a small change I've made myself.
 
And Oh, every day's work is very easy, I think this is the meaning of HELPX. It would be nice if a skilled friend could help them more. I think Mal&Lee need some boys to give a hand, come on boys, it’s your show time~Why not?
 
Finally, thank you again! I know you'll be able to see it~
 kind regards,
 Zing
 

Helper: Stacy Woody From: France    Date: February 12, 2019

"Two very good weeks in Mal and Lee s house".

 
I really want to say merci Mal and Lee. I spent 2 amazing weeks with them. We shared very good moment like cooking, learning, discovering, laughing and a little bit working. To start my travel in Australia, I found the best place with considerate people. But now I am continuing my wanderlust and I will miss Mal and Lee. Keep save and thanks a lot for everything. I hope I will see you again.
 

Helper: Amber Wei From: China    Date: February 2, 2019

 


I spent a week at Mal & Lee's which was so informative, educational, thought-provoking, eye-opening and mind-blowing.The real work itself was too easy, less than two hours painting or gardening on weekdays, on top of which we were happy to help Lee out in the kitchen by doing small chores like the dishes and setting the table.
 
Lee is such a talented and tasty vegan cook, caring and fabulous housewife that Mal says wherever Lee is, he's happy to be there. I wish I could have a compatible and complementary marriage just like this.
 
As for Mal, he's the most intelligent and well-versed person I've ever met with a library of knowledge, who educated us and shared his wisdom with us every day at the dining table. We were so lucky and honoured to have learned many advanced English words and a different perspective to see things from him.
 
During my stay there, they took me out to a big event in Armadale on Australia Day and to the serene temple where I learned that monks in Australia are so cheerful and humorous and to the Indian buffet and the casino where me and Dana had our first dance to the live music at the casino bar.I spent a lot of my spare time enjoyably and leisurely with Stacy,a French bonza helper,cycling around Swan River in Perth city and the nearby Champion Lake.
 
In a nutshell, my seven days were so worthy and memorable, well spent in this multicultural, well-traveled and well-bred intellectual family.I will miss my "professor","the burger Queen","Miss Sugar" and Dana.
 

Helpers : Julia and Matthias From Germany Date: January 4, 2019

 

We stayed 3 weeks at Mal & Lee's Place and we really enjoyed every single day. It was our first helpx experience and it could not have been any better.
 
Mal & Lee made us feel at home very quickly. They are both very kind, warm & loving people. The vegan food is just so delicious. By far it was the best food on our travels. As we just got into the vegan lifestyle. We really appreciated all the knowledge Mal & Lee have about a good vegan diet. Thank you for sharing and teaching us how to do Som Tam & all the yummy food!
 
The house of Mal & Lee feels like home very quick and we loved the surroundings. The lake is just around the corner and even Perth CBD is not that far.
 
After all the trouble we had before with our car this was the perfect place and company to calm down and to get some rest. Also we got to know wonderful people from china & japan. We enjoyed having such a multicultural vibe in the house and we are glad we met some new friends.
 
Mal has so much knowledge about everything. Thanks for opening up our point of view!
 
Sorry for our late reply!
 
We hope to meet you again - maybe in Thailand :) thank you for everything.
 
Lots of hugs & love, Matthias & Julia
 

Helper: Grace Tu - From: China    Date: December 12, 2018

 



Staying in Mal&Lee’s place for 2 weeks was a lovely experience. Like everyone else, I loved the VEGAN FOOD in this house!!!! Not only I met some new friends from Japan and Germany, but I learnt a lot from Mal and Lee. Both of them are full of wonderful adventure, life experience and knowledge. I learnt so much about vegetables from Lee. I enjoyed so much on how they care for the food and how wise they are in living a healthy life. And they have bikes for you to cycle around. The lake nearly is a beautiful spot to cycle or walk.
 
You don’t take things for granted here, you take and you give. The 2-hour work wasn’t difficult. Mal and Lee would always care for you. Everyone in the house helped out in the kitchen before or after meal. It was actually a good time to learn some cooking from Lee and talk with her.
 
Mal is an amazing computer geek. I am very grateful he helped to fix some problems in my laptop and install Linux system for me. He never stops learning. Every day he would have something new to blow your mind. I wish my English was even better and my brain had more knowledge to discuss more with him. I really appreciate he enlightened me to learn more and more.
 
Mal and Lee are very warm-hearted, considerate and cute couple. You would enjoy being around them.
 
It was very memorable time for me. Thank you so much for everything!
 
Wish you all the best!
 Grace
 

Helper: Chenyiyun Wang     From: China Date: December 8, 2018

 



I had stayed with Mal and Lee for one week! They were so nice and gave me the most memorable exchange experience. The food was good, room was clean and Mal droped and picked me up at the station every time when I went out. They were talkable, kind, embrancing and understanding difference among people. I’m so glad I met them for my first Helpx exchange. And I’m so happy I made good friends in Mal and Lee ‘s house.
 Thank you Mal and Lee for everything you’d done for me. Really wish I have oportunity to meet you guys again.
 

Helper: Satomi Mima   From: Japan  October 10, 2018

 



I stayed here for a week. There were little work I could do, like gardening and carrying bricks. Sorry, I wished I’ve been a good carpenter or something!
 I felt so comfortable during I stayed here, every meal Lee cooked was so delicious, Thai food, sometimes Japanese food as well. These meal worth much more than I paid in advance.
 
Mel taught me lots of things including about food industry, healthy food etc and showed me some interesting videos like about social programs and music. They took me and another Japanese girl to the shopping centre,Cambodian temple and vegan restaurant on weekend.
 I sometimes took for a walk around house, there are some nice parks and rivers to enjoy views and watching birds.
 
Cheers mate!
 Satomi
 

Helper: Su su From: China Date: September 29, 2018

 



I have stay with Mal&Lee for 45days.Mal&Lee picked me up from the airport at first day and take me to the another spot where i am working today，i am so appreciate and lucky stay with them，Lee cooks so delicious，i feel so full everyday，i like talking with Mal about social problems，he always give me some new views and i glad to talking with him although my English is so poor^^anyway，with them，i feel peaceful and cheerful，they are soooo kind people????i will miss u all.
 

Helper: Yulong Lan (Matthew) From: China Date: September 15, 2018

 


I stayed with Mal and Lee for two weeks by recommendation from a Chinese girl who I met at the airport, and fortunately, Mal and Lee were willing to take me hence I have got a most beautiful memory that I would never forget.
 
Mal and Lee are both vegan, thus I thought before that the food may not surprise me. On the contrary, Lee is one of the most amazing cooks who I've ever known as she is very capable of turning normal vegetables into exotic and local delicious cuisine using different cooking methods. Moreover, Lee is extremely industrious as well as she never stops in the kitchen.
 
Mal is a pretty knowledgeable and wise old man. Mal has lived an attractive life indeed, from a navy soldier to a prison officer to a computer shop owner and so on, I wish I could have a life as colourful as this too.
 
He and Lee cycled around this country and the world, therefore, they've got a lot of interesting stories that they experienced in other countries. They introduced a healthy vegan lifestyle to me, even though I may not be able to make myself a proper vegan overnight, it struck me that I should pay more attention to my own health, life of animals, philosophy of life and humans as one species.
 
In a word, it was a great pleasure to meet Mal and Lee. They are very nice husband and wife.
 

Helper: Chilson From: China Date: September 14, 2018

 


Have you ever seen the streets at 4: 30 in the morning? Just today. Mal and Lee were trying to get me to work . They got up early to cook breakfast and take us to work .It really touched me .In their home, I felt the warmth of home, I felt their concern and care for me, I really appreciate them .If there's a next time, I'll come to their house again .I was alone in Australia, but they told me to keep a room for you whenever you want to come back .I'll miss Lee's delicious meals and Mal's interesting observations .I know that maybe my English is not good enough to express what they did for me .But I just want to say that I really appreciate meeting you in my life . Best wishes.The name that's hard to spell, Chilson .
 

Helper: Anna Jauch From: Germany Date: May 16, 2018

 


I spent two weeks with Mal and Lee and wow what lovely people they are. As soon as I entered the house they made sure I was comfortable and happy. I learned a lot during our conversations and am still amazed how much knowledgment both of them hold. Not only did the food taste amazing but I also found out a lot about how food nourishes our body and what a healthy diet ideally looks like.
 I worked at the local Cambodian temple where I discovered and experienced so much about Buddhism first hand. I was encouraged to take part in their ceremonies like chanting and meditating and the other locals were always lovely as well.
 My chore was mainly weeding and helping around the kitchen, cleaning up and 'serving' the monks.
 A huge thank you Mal for all of the help you provided me with my car.
 Thanks Lee for the amazing food, I felt like I was in vegan food heaven.
 Thanks for your hospitality!! Wish you all the best,
 Anna
 

Helper: Yan Pang From: China Date: April 17, 2018

 


I stayed with Mal and Lee for 5 days and I had a great time there. I arrived at the airport late and they kindly came to pick me up which makes me feel being welcomed. Mal was sick when I was there, so I didn't have too much work to do, instead, they took me to the church and temple to share food with other people, or took me to the Perth city.
 Lee cooked many delicious vegan food and Mal taught me a lot of knowledges about balance diet, history, geography, etc. You will always learn something from them.
 Mal, I hope you will recover soon and be happy everyday, I mean, both of you.
 Penny
 
NOTE FROM MAL - I was bitten by a spider and am recovered now :-) - Thanks Penny
 

Helper: Julien and Noemie - From, Belgium - Date: March 29, 2018

 


For our first experience helpX we had the luck to stay for a few days with Mal and Lee. They are so naturally friendly and welcoming. We absolutely loved our few days there. Both are very interesting and have a lot of things to learn to us. Work there was more than fair. Really happy of our experience with both of them and were amazed by there cooking skills and there knowledge about vegan diet. Eating with them is more than worth it. Thanks again Mal & Lee
 

Helper: Lay hong and Peng kiat From: Malaysia - Date: January 29, 2018

 


Mal & Lee are very kind, loving and caring couple. We felt very lucky to have stayed with them. We stay with them for 10 days but we really hope we could stay with them for much longer. We love chatting with them. During breakfast, lunch and dinner time, we always have a long chat like a family.
 We were given easy job to do. We did little bit of roof painting, painting trailer, window cleaning, we felt we did too little for them. They were always very concern about us, did we slept well? how we felt about the job given, and how we felt about food.
 Lee cooks very yummy vegan food, her meals always surprise us as it was always a different dish, different variety ,be it a burger, noodle, mix soups, curry, miso soup, pastry, fried rice, Vietnamese popiah, salad fruit juice , all are so delicious. We miss them all so much. .The food that Lee cooks are full of colour, variety of veg and fruits, nuts, grains, herb and many other ingredient that I don’t know. Lee made very tasty and healthy sauce (all kind of sauce with multi ingredients). I think we had the most healthy food and yummy vegan food in our life (unless we are lucky enough to meet another Lee in the future.. haha..). They even taught us on how to keep a balance diet. I am a vegetarian for 5 years, I always don’t know much about how to eat a healthy meal. Lee and Mal open our mind on that., why we must eat this & that food .
 Mal always has something to share, he is very knowledgeable, he always give my 17th years old girl advice on life. He has more than 50 years’ working experience; he has been in many business and type of works. Lee teaches us about business, how the system works, how to get start a business, what to do and what not to be done. Mal was always kind to fetch us to the train station, to do some shopping. One Sunday , they brought us to a Buddhist temple to serve the monks there. We love the peaceful environment there.
 They are brave and courage person. They have been visiting more than 80 countries (if not mistaken?), they took 3 years to cycled the world. So they have many travelling experience to share. They are our health advisor, they are our business advisor and of course they are our trip advisor too?. They seem to know everything. The most important is they are willing to share their experience with us. Sometimes the dinner table felt like a debating hall. Everyone had different ideas on the topic . They always encourage us to express our point of view, our English has improve a lot ?.
 LOVE U Mal & Lee, will definitely come back and of course hoping u will visit us at Kuala Lumpur in near future. Will keep in touch and say hello to you often. Wish you both happy and healthy forever. Cheers, Lay Hong & Li Xuan Helper:
 

Helper: Zhijun and Fengwan From: China - Date: December 28, 2017

 


We stayed with Mal&Lee almost half years. Like the family. They are very friendly and sincerely people. LEE is a good cooker. Everytime will try her best to prepared lunch and dinner. Vegan food is very healthy and delicious. They help us too many things.Even we are no skills, Mal teach us how to printing the the wall is better . we learned more and more about how to repair the house. we never forget this time. we love perth and MAL& LEE very much!
 

Helper: Silvia and Damián From: Spain - Date: October 8, 2017

 


Hello!!! We stayed with Mal & Lee for almost 10 days, the experience was great!!!! They were always trying to make us feel like at home. Lee loves to cook and you can feel it when you taste her food! They were a big help for the first days in OZ. Mal helped us a lot with banks, cars etc. Thank you for everything you have done for us! See you soon!
 

Helper: Vanessa Omoigui From: Germany - Date: September 24, 2017

 


I was staying with Lee and Mal for 2 weeks and it was a great first help x experience! I think they are the most guest-friendly people I've ever met and I'm happy that i could get to know them. Lee's food is sooo good and you'll never leave the house hungry!
 They took me to awesome places I've never been before and I had a lot of fun there. The work was always interesting and not hard at all and my room there was soooo chomfy. I also really liked the two chinese girls staying there, it was fun to be around them! There's a beautiful big lake near the house and I loved going for a walk there. If you are looking for a homestay that really feels like home, you should come here. Thank you for that experience Lee & Mal , I really enjoyed it at your place!
 

Helper: Fanny and Chris From: France - Date: September 22, 2017

 


We stayed 2 weeks at Mal & Lee's and it was a really good first HelpX experience. They are tolerant, open-minded and truly attentive to their hosts. Food is an important part of their way of life and Lee is an excellent cook. The work (we did painting) was not hard and they are flexible. Thank you Mal, thank you Lee
 

REFERENCES FROM WHEN WE ARE HOTEL MANAGERS - HELPX
 

Helper: Shujin From: China    Date: June 3, 2016

 


This is really a lovely place.
 
The environment inside the lodge is very clean,tidy,and warm, no matter the hall,the kitchen, or the garden, you will enjoy them just like at home.
 

The environment around the lodge is also attractive, you have a lot of choices every day after 2hours-work to wander around, giant tingle tree, tree top walk, circular pool,mt frankland, bibbulmun trail, peaceful bay, each one worthes visiting, and also supermarket ,post office,visitor center, bus stop nearby ,very convenient.
 The people in Walpole are excellent. When we worked there, the managers -Mal and Lee treated us like family members, the owner, their family is also very kind.There you can meet different kinds of people, share food,stories,information, skills,knowledge, very interesting.
 The work here is not heavy, mainly  cleaning and making bed.
 If you are interested in Walpole lodge , do come, you will not regret, neither the place nor people here. This is really an  excellent place, I Will remember forever and come back one day.
 

Helper: Sophie(Jianliang) From: China    Date: June 3, 2016

 


This is the most amazing place I’ve ever been! The Lodge is so quiet in such a peaceful area, which makes me even want to buy it~ (Hah, unfortunately I don’t have enough money…)
 
Walpole is a lovely town, you can have forest, sea, beach, mountain at the same time, just by walking. We tried several parts of Bibbulmun Track here, I really recommend it! 2 hrs work is quite easy, during free time, we also participated the community activities in Walpole, meeting friendly residents in the country club and the Anglican church, they are all warmly hospital; especially the councilor, David, if you meet him, you will be very lucky, he’s so optimistic, and enjoys introducing the whole Walpole to you.
 
The managers Mal and Lee become our family the first day we arrived. Although food is not included in helpx, they always invited us to their colorful veggie meals. Lee can cook the most delicious veggie food in the world, and she always sharing her cooking tips with us, as well as presenting us free ingredients. They drove us to every spots around Walpole – Giant Tingle Tree, Circular Pool, Peaceful Bay, Denmark, Tree Top Walk, Dinosaur Park, Mt Frankland, it was such a wonderful memory. Mal and Lee are very considerate, they care about every life in the world, I learned quite a lot of life philosophy from them. However, Lee said, “when you feel comfortable, it’s time for you to go”, so they went on their journey… And we left 2 days after them.
 
By the way, the owner Julia and Steel are also nice people, and the day before we leaving, we met the new managers, although it was in a hurry, they gave me a good impression.
 
In the end, I recommend this lovely Lodge a thousand times!
 
Jane(Shujin)
 

Helper: Sebastian van den Ende From: Netherlands    Date: May 2, 2016

 


It has been a honer for me to work a side whit the current managers Mal and Lee at the Walpole Lodge.
 
Lee's cooking is amazing, i have learned so much from her, such a amazing chef!
 And Mal's stories fascinates me, such a delight to be around whit.
 They became family right away, whit there relaxed way of thinking and managing.
 
I will miss you guys.
 
The area of Walpole is a great place to vised for a while if you love nature, so much to do!
 
The work is just 2 hours and its not hard at all, after that you have all the time off to do whatever you want.
 

Dave and Gaby  From: Canada    Date: February 25, 2016

 


Hello Mal and Lee!
 
Sorry for the late review. We had a very pleasant time at Walpole lodge. Mal and Lee are some lovely persons with whom we shared some interesting conversations and could exchange about traveling experiences. The work is very easy and Lee will show you the art of housekeeping :) this hostel/lodge has a very high standard of care and costumer service, thanks to the manager team.
 
I would recommend this place to anyone for a great experience with these two exceptionnal individuals that are Malcom and Lee.
 
Thank you again and see you soon!
 

Feedback left by Workawayer (Matthias & Eva) 26-12-2017

 


Had a fantastic time at Lee & Mal's house. They were such welcoming and generous hosts, that we immediatly felt at home at their house. The vegan food was absolutely delicious and we miss it very much! We enjoyed many interesting conversations on all kinds of areas and were impressed by the vast knowledge the two have through their life experience. Thank you for everything! :
 

Feedback left by Workawayer (Alessandra & Carmen) 11-9-2017

 


Excellent stay at Mal and Lee's home! We helped as much as we could in renovating their house (painting and gardening) and stayed a couple of weeks. All the meals were delicious and homemade by Lee who is a wonderful cook and person! Mal helped us so much with everything he could.. They are very very helpfull and made us feel at home and part of their everyday life from the very first day. Definitly recommend staying at their home they are lovely people!
 

Feedback left by Workawayer (Delphine & Thibaut)  1-7-2017

 


We stay 3 week with Lee and Mal and we really enjoy this first workaway experience. Mal and Lee are very kind, they bring us where we need to go, they help us to find a car and some stuff and above of all they share with us great moment. I definitly recommends them ! Thank you for all, Delphine and thibaut
 

Feedback left by Workawayer (Teresa) 26-5-2017

 


This loving people are amazing. I was literally a part of their family. I had such a great time. Started with meal and finished with great experience. I did some painting and cleaning, preps for painting and so on. I didnt have any skills in building stuff but mal showed me some of his skills and we could work together. It was fantastic. The food from lee was very good and never to less. Almost every meal was a special one and very tasty as well! I really enjoyed my time there. We had good talks about different themes and we were listening to all the music, mal collected over years from all over the world. We watched documanteries and movies, I was really interested in.
 They took me to the casino and a good restaurant. To a Buddhist temple and to a crystal shop. Sweet as! I can't thank these people enough. I am just very grateful to chose this lovely couple and had new experience.
 Lee and mal. Your heart is so big and everything comes back to you! I promise! Thank you for all you have done for me! We will see each other again. I can feel that. I will miss you and never forget you in my heart. Lots of love for you and a great time with all the other workawayers! Take care!! X Sincerely, Teresa
 

Feedback left by Workawayer (Andres) 16-5-2017

 

I stayed with Lee and Mal for 3 weeks and it was wonderful expirience for me. I helped them with my knowledge and skills in renovating for a exchange for my own room and delicious meals. I have to say Lee is an excellent chef and I totally enjoyed her vegan meals! I never went hungry in they're house.
 We had some lovely talks about different aspects of life and Mals knowledge about things seemed endless. They really treated me like a part of the family and I am really grateful for that. Also before sending me back on the road, they helped soo much, getting my gear together, planning the route etc. I would reccomend them as they were unbelivably nice hosts! Hopefully we meet again sometime, somewhere