SA Youth Week will be celebrated on the south coast with block parties over three days from Friday 11 April to Monday 14 April.There will be three nights of gaming, creativity, and self-expression for young people aged 12 to 19.The fun kicks off with an E-sports Party at Encounter Community Centre in Victor Harbor on Friday 11 April.Compete in a range of Nintendo Switch E-Sports tournaments, including Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros.On Saturday 12 April Gamer’s Delight at Mount Compass Memorial Hall will feature an escape room, Dungeons and Dragons, Theatresports workshops and spray painting.The final event,  Who Am I?, is at Goolwa's Centenary Hall on Monday 14 April focuses on self-expression and identity.Activities include workshops on portrait photography and journal making, with badge making, a clothes swap and a make-up and dress up station for a Selfie Wall.These are lock-in style, supervised, drug and alcohol-free events that offer free food and drinks.They are supported by Alexandrina Council and partners with a grant from Human Services SA. Tickets are free but must be booked via Humanitix.

This week, RSPCA South Australia is excited to showcase six wonderful dogs who are eagerly awaiting their forever homes. Each of these canines has a unique personality and story, and they are all ready to bring joy and companionship to their new families.​Chester Meet ChesterChester is a friendly and intelligent dog who loves to engage with people. He's looking for a family that can provide him with plenty of playtime and affection. Chester would thrive in a home where he can be the center of attention and share his boundless energy.​Boston Meet BostonBoston is an energetic and playful companion who enjoys outdoor adventures. He would be a great match for an active family that loves spending time outdoors. Boston is ready to join you on hikes, runs, and all sorts of fun activities.​Minnie Meet MinnieMinnie is a sweet and gentle soul who loves nothing more than cuddling up with her favorite humans. She's looking for a calm and loving home where she can feel safe and cherished. Minnie's affectionate nature makes her a perfect companion for those seeking a loyal friend.​Ned Meet NedNed is a curious and intelligent dog who loves to learn new tricks and commands. He would thrive in a home where he can receive plenty of mental stimulation and training. Ned's eagerness to please makes him a joy to work with and a wonderful addition to any family.​Hemi Meet HemiHemi is a loyal and protective companion who is looking for a dedicated owner to build a strong bond with. He would do best in a home where he can be the only pet and receive all the love and attention he deserves. Hemi's devotion to his humans is truly unparalleled.​Thomas Meet ThomasThomas is a fun-loving and adventurous dog who enjoys exploring new places and meeting new people. He's looking for a family that can match his enthusiasm for life and provide him with plenty of opportunities for play and exercise. Thomas's zest for life is sure to bring a smile to your face.​If you're interested in adopting any of these wonderful dogs, please visit the RSPCA South Australia's adoption page for more information on the adoption process and to schedule a meet-and-greet. Your new best friend could be waiting for you!

Yankalilla Showgrounds will host the third annual Fleurieu AgFest 2025 next Friday 4 April, with the theme Shaping the Future of Farming.This free event will bring together local farmers, industry leaders and students for a full day of learning, networking and practical advice. It will feature hands-on workshops, expert talks and trade displays, offering information and advice for producers looking to strengthen their business and stay across industry trends.This year’s event was almost cancelled, with the District Council of Yankalilla withdrawing financial support at its October 2024 meeting due to budget pressure.A delegation from the Parawa Ag Bureau to the November council meeting convinced the majority of councillors to change their minds and rescind the October decision.The council resolved to allocate $15,000 to deliver AgFest in 2025 with support from the Parawa Agricultural Bureau, but that future funding would be committed on a sliding scale.This would be$10,000 for financial year 2025/2026 and $5,000 for financial year 2026/2027, subject to detailed consideration as part of the Annual Budget development process.Regional Development Australia, Bendigo Bank and Parawa Ag Bureau also sponsor the event.Organisers says this year’s Ag Fest will showcase cutting-edge products, technology and sustainable practices, with local trade and regional exhibitors who support or are involved in agriculture across the region.It all starts with a networking breakfast, with speakers on the Regional Drought Resilience Plan; practical strategies for succession planning and growth; and the latest market trends and seasonal outlooks.The day continues with presentations relevant to today's agriculture businesses and concludes with post-event networking refreshments.Fleurieu AgFest is free to attend but tickets must be reserved via Eventbrite.

Next Wednesday 2 April will see Alexandrina Council partner with the Port Elliot Primary School for the first ‘School Open Street’ event in the district.It will take place from 8am to 9am on Cameron Street near the Port Elliot Primary School.A School Open Street is a temporary car-free zone near a school that provides a safe and welcoming place for children and their families to walk and ride to school.This first event aligns with the council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, its Community Wellbeing Action Plan and its A2040 community vision to be ‘Liveable.Green.Connected’.By creating a pedestrian-friendly space on Cameron Street near Port Elliot Primary School, the first School Open Street promotes walking, cycling, and healthier lifestyles while reducing reliance on vehicles.The event also complements the state government Way2Go program at Port Elliot Primary School, which focuses on improving bike and road safety.Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes says the trial is all about having fun while supporting kids’ independence and wellbeing.“We’re excited to trial this initiative which we hope will foster community participation, involve neighbouring residents and encourage children and families to engage in active transport.“Communities in other states have run similar events with great success and if the School Open Street at Port Elliot goes well and is embraced by our community, then we will definitely look at partnering with other schools in our district in the future.”

The 2025-26 Federal Budget has left South Australia’s regional road network high and dry, according to the RAA.  The state’s peak motoring body has welcomed the funds flowing to complete the North South Corridor and $125 million for the Curtis Road Level Crossing removal project announced in the 2025-26 Federal Budget, but remains concerned about the lack of funding for regional roads.  The Federal Budget failed to deliver: Funding to progress the Adelaide Hills Freight Bypass or progress the duplication of the Augusta Highway and other critical regional corridors like the Sturt and Dukes Highway.Funding to help address South Australia’s $2 billion road maintenance backlog.The continuation of $20 million in grants to fix regional local government roads.A commitment to deliver fair and equitable motoring tax reform to replace the declining fuel excise.  RAA Chief Executive Officer Nick Reade says the Federal Government must invest in South Australia’s regional road network if South Australia is to reach the targets set out in the nation’s Road Safety Strategy to 2031. “Unfortunately, there’s no money allocated in the Federal Budget to fix these potentially dangerous regional roads.  “The Augusta Highway recorded 43 deaths and 319 injures (97 serious and 222 minor) between 2014-2023 – making it one of the most dangerous regional corridors in South Australia. “These three key regional corridors are also essential to help freight move around, not only South Australia, but Australia.  He says Federal Budget documents show only 79 per cent of the fuel excise revenue collected over the next four years will be spent on roads and infrastructure.  “That’s funding South Australia’s roads desperately need – particularly in our regions.”  Off the back of research showing 74 per cent of RAA members are concerned about energy bills, RAA welcomed the extension of the government energy rebates and new disaster mitigation funding initiatives.  “Our members are telling us loud and clear that cost of living continues to cause them pain – so the extension of the energy rebate scheme is welcome news and will provide temporary relief for households,” Mr Reade says.  “We’re also pleased to see a bushfire community recovery and resilience program and look forward to working with the government about how that funding could be used to help protect homes, reduce risk and ease pressure on insurance premiums.”  The Federal Budget follows the Australian Automobile Association launch this week of its My Safety Counts campaign, which urges politicians to release the safety ratings given to Australian roads. Like vehicles, roads across Australia are given star ratings by road safety experts – yet these ratings are not released to the public. 

Victor Harbor and Normanville have taken out two of the three Hello SA Top Tourism Town Awards for 2025.For the third year in a row, Victor Harbor has been crowned South Australia's Top Tourism Town, while Normanville has been named the Top Small Tourism Town.Robe, in the state’s south east, took out Top Tiny Tourism Town.The awards are designed to recognise towns in South Australia that offer an amazing visitor experience and a strong commitment to tourism.Tourism Industry Council of South Australia runs the program as part of a national program designed by the Australian Tourism Industry Council.The winners will go on to compete against Australia’s other states and territories at an event held at Parliament House, in Canberra in September.They also receive a prize pack that includes a segment on Hello SA TV on Channel 9 and inclusion in feature stories in Adelady magazine and SA Life.Taking out hello SA’s Top Tourism Town award for the third consecutive year, has made Victor Harbor the first South Australian town to be inducted into the Top Tourism Town Hall of Fame.Mayor Moira Jenkins says Victor Harbor’s continued success proves it’s not just a holiday destination – it’s a place that keeps calling you back. “This milestone reflects the dedication of our community, Council, and world-class tourism operators who have worked tirelessly to make Victor Harbor a standout destination.“Whether it’s the thrill of whale watching in winter, soaking up the sun along our stunning coastline in summer, or exploring our vibrant arts, cultural events, and cafés year-round, Victor Harbor offers something for everyone. Our community and tourism operators work tirelessly to create memorable experiences, no matter when you visit. We look forward to welcoming even more people to discover what makes our town so special, any time of year.”District Council of Yankalilla issued a statement expressing its pride in being crowned Hello SA Top Small Tourism Town, crediting Yankalilla Normanville Progress Association and the Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre, for their efforts in making it possible.“This incredible achievement celebrates our beautiful beachside gem, from stunning coastlines to unique local experiences. “We are delighted that Normanville has been recognised and cannot wait to share our small but spectacular part of the world on the national stage.”

Alexandrina Council will replace the ageing public toilet facility off Island View Drive in Clayton Bay.The existing building, which was constructed prior to the introduction of modern Disability Discrimination Act standards and building codes, will be demolished.This is expected to be done by the end of July and temporary portable toilets will be installed while the new toilet block is built.AusGov Infrastructure's Local Road and Community Infrastructure Phase 4 program has fully funded the project, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.The council says the design takes into consideration current trends and sustainable materials including accessible, gender neutral and ambulant toilets, baby change facilities and energy-efficient appliances.It will have a front verandah; solar power and a battery system to support the lighting and hand dryers; internal light sensors; and a sunset timer switch. A new pedestrian path, kerb ramps and a hard surface temporary parking zone will be built outside the new facility.Project updates can be followed on the council website. 

The Environment Protection Authority has received results identifying the species Karenia mikimotoi as the cause of the microalgae bloom on the south coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula.This follows widespread reports of surfers and beachgoers suffering symptoms including coughing and breathing difficulties, itchy eyes and blurred vision.Dead fish, octopuses and seahorses have washed up on shore and beaches have experienced red staining and excessive foam, with Waitpinga and Parsons beaches closed until further notice.Sydney scientists Shauna Murray and Greta Gaiani revealed the cause in an article in academic news journal The Conversation on Monday 24 March.“While relatively common in Australian coastal waters, blooms of K. mikimotoi occur only sporadically. But similar harmful algal blooms and fish kills due to K. mikimotoi have happened in the past, such as the 2014 bloom in Coffin Bay, SA. And this latest one won’t be the last.”The state government sent water samples to the scientists from Waitpinga Beach, Petrel Cove, Encounter Bay and Parsons Beach on Tuesday 18 March. Karenia mikimotoi is toxic to fish and invertebrates and can cause general allergic-type responses in humans. Human exposure, including through breathing in algae particles, can cause respiratory and eye irritation or skin rashes in some people, while ingestion could cause stomach upsets or flu-like symptoms. Karenia mikimotoi can also cause mass mortalities of marine species at varying concentrations. This species can have a range of health impacts on marine life but is known for impacting on the gills of fish, typically causing mortality. The EPA expects the microalgae will dissipate naturally over time depending on wind, swell and tidal conditions and they will continue to monitor the bloom. Over the past week, reports from the public have conveyed sightings of the bloom, and its effects on marine life and humans, from Cape Jervis to Encounter Bay. Waitpinga Beach and Parsons Beach will remain closed until further notice and people should adhere to the warning signs located at other council-run beaches.The EPA says the event has been driven by an ongoing marine heatwave, with marine water temperatures currently 2.5C warmer than usual, as well as relatively calm marine conditions with little wind and small swell. Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Susan Close has encouraged  people to avoid the water and shoreline along the affected beaches. “The EPA will continue to monitor the microalgae bloom and beaches will reopen as soon as it dissipates. “If people do come into contact with the microalgae, please follow the health advice and wash it off with fresh water. “With temperatures, including water temperatures, continuing to rise as part of climate change, we need to remain vigilant for these type of events and I thank everyone who took to the time to report the bloom to authorities.”David Cunliffe is SA Health Principal Water Quality Adviser: “In general, people should avoid contact with discoloured fresh or marine water. If they do enter this water they should take care to wash in clean water afterwards.”To report conditions contact Fishwatch on 1800 065 522 or report to the EPA on 1800 623 445 or via [email protected] the full scientific article by Professor Murray and Ms Gaiani in The Conversation.

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested following reports of vehicles being tampered with at Sellicks Beach on Tuesday night.Just after 10.30pm on 25 March, a witness reported seeing a group of youths checking car door handles along Jessedan Way.Police responded and located a teenager from Seaford Rise in the area. He was arrested and charged with two counts of illegal interference and breach of bail.The boy was refused police bail and is expected to appear in the Christie Beach Youth Court today.Police are asking residents in the area to check their vehicles and report any incidents of break-ins by calling the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

Aldinga’s Symonds Reserve is one of the areas set to benefit from the state government’s new Urban Greening Strategy, which aims to grow the city’s tree canopy, cool urban areas and boost biodiversity in the suburbs.Backed by an initial $1.5 million grant allocation, with contributions matched by five metro councils, it’s the first Greater Adelaide-wide strategy to address the loss of tree canopies. With Adelaide experiencing increased average temperatures and a greater frequency of very hot days, the state government says it is vital to increase green spaces to help the city to stay liveable and cool. Metropolitan Adelaide’s tree canopy cover is currently sits at just 17 per cent and the strategy aims to eventually increase this to 30 per cent. Urban greening includes conserving, restoring, and creating green infrastructure which is essential for Adelaide's liveability, economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. Having more green spaces enhances the city's reputation, supports biodiversity and strengthens our response to climate change. The grants will fund projects like the greening of the Banksia Park Sports Area’s carpark in the City of Tea Tree Gully, planting and water efficiency features for cooling around Symonds Reserve in the City of Onkaparinga, and plantings at the Walkley’s Corridor Development in the City of Salisbury.Symonds Reserve is located on grounds adjoining the Aldinga Community Centre; it provides a large open space set against a backdrop of pretty hills and contains a variety of gum trees.Professor Chris Daniels is Chair of the Green Adelaide Board: “Work to deliver the strategy is already underway with six metropolitan councils today receiving $1.5 million through our Cooler, Greener, Wilder Grants program to deliver Adelaide’s Urban Greening Strategy,” he says. “By joining forces, through Adelaide’s new Urban Greening Strategy, our capital city now has its first metro-wide plan to expand tree canopy, cool the city, and enhance biodiversity, as well as measures to track ongoing progress to create a more resilient and liveable city.”The strategy was coordinated by Green Adelaide, on behalf of the state government, in collaboration with non-government stakeholders including arborists, builders, designers, planners and researchers. For more about the Urban Greening Strategy and the Cooler, Greener, Wilder Grants visit the Green Adelaide website. 

An 82-year-old man from Hindmarsh Island has been reported following a serious crash in Victor Harbor earlier this year.Emergency services were called to the intersection of Crozier Road and Lindsay Street just after 11am on Saturday, 11 January, after a collision between a Harley Davidson motorcycle and a Toyota SUV.The motorcyclist, a 65-year-old local man, sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital. The driver of the SUV was uninjured.Following an investigation by Hills Fleurieu Highway Patrol, the SUV driver has been reported for causing serious harm by careless use of a vehicle. He will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

Local food and culture will be celebrated at Peninsula Providore, in Tooperang on Sunday 6 April.The Local Food on Country event offers an opportunity to connect with the stories, knowledge and flavours of the Fleurieu and Hills region.First Nations custodians will discuss the deep connections between food, culture and Country. Visitors can meet local farmers and producers and taste the best of local produce.An interactive food trail has been designed for all ages; there will be a Ngarrindjeri craft corner and a producers market. Local Ngarrindjeri/Gunditjmara musician Katie Aspel will play in the olive grove.Picnic boxes will be available for pre-purchase; a coffee van and cool drinks will be available; visitors are also welcome to take along their own picnic.The event will run from 11am to 3pm; tickets are $15 and $12 via Humanitix. This Food Embassy event is hosted by the Hills and Fleurieu Local Food Futures project partners and Peninsula Providore. 

For many hospitality is just a job, but for Annie Roper from Wistow on High in Strathalbyn, it’s a way of life. From working in patisserie kitchens to managing cafés across Australia and overseas, Annie has built a career on creating memorable experiences for customers. Now, after two years travelling the country with nothing but a swag and a sense of adventure, she has returned to the Fleurieu Peninsula—and has been named the latest Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star.Originally from Littlehampton, Annie left home at 15 to begin a chef apprenticeship in Melbourne before moving to the Yarra Valley, where she worked as a patisserie chef. One of her career highlights was serving Maggie Beer a house-made salted caramel ice cream—an experience she still reflects on as a defining moment in her journey.Her recent time on the road, travelling through remote and coastal regions, has reinforced her appreciation for people and the way hospitality shapes experiences. Since returning, she has found her place at Wistow on High, where her enthusiasm and commitment to great service have made her an essential part of the team.“I worked for Kel and Darren two years ago and loved it, so when the opportunity came up to re-join the team, I didn’t hesitate,” Annie says. “It’s fast, fun, and I get to work with amazing people. What’s not to love?”Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at Port Elliot, considers Flying Fish Café her go-to for dinner, and recommends The Commercial Hotel in Strathalbyn for an afternoon drink. Despite her time exploring different parts of Australia, she admits she still hasn’t visited Rapid Bay. But it’s now on her list, thanks to winning a trip on the neighbouring Big Duck, Sea Wirrina Tour. She has also won a mixed case of world class McLaren Vale Wines, thanks to McLaren Vale Grape, Wine and Tourism. As the business behind the winner, The Wistow on High is also in the running for a feature broadcast segment on Hello SA, supported by Adelady and worth over $5000, which is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the passion behind the region’s hospitality.“It’s people like Annie who bring the Fleurieu Peninsula to life, creating experiences that go beyond great service,” says Merrin Ozols, Executive Officer of Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism. “Her warmth, knowledge, and passion for hospitality don’t just make visitors feel welcome—they help them connect more deeply with this place, its stories, and its community. It’s these kinds of genuine connections that turn a simple visit into something lasting and meaningful.”The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Stars program is designed to celebrate the region’s hospitality workers who go above and beyond. The program acknowledges the importance of exceptional service in shaping visitor experiences and strengthening the local tourism industry.For more information on the Service Star awards and how to get involved, visit the website.

Anyone interested in electric vehicles is invited to a meet-up next Sunday 30 March at Bungala Park in Normanville.The new Shark BYD hybrid ute will be on show at the meet-up from 2pm to 4pm.Organisers say it is an ideal vehicle for tradespeople and farmers and is the first lower priced hybrid of its kind.The event is both for owners of EVs and hybrid vehicles and those keen to find out more about them.At the close of the meet-up there will be a convoy to the nearby Hobart wreck site.The group meets monthly at locations across the Fleurieu.

South Australia shone bright at the 40th Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, as around 800 tourism industry leaders and business owners from across the country gathered in Adelaide on Friday 21 March.Nine South Australian tourism businesses took home awards, four from the Fleurieu Peninsula.A first time national finalist, Old Coach Road Estate at Hindmarsh Valley was awarded Gold for its secluded and luxurious property in the Self-Contained Accommodation category.South coast water-based businesses took two Silver awards – Big Duck Boat Tours for Ecotourism and Spirit of the Coorong in the Tour & Transport Operators category.Kool Tours won Bronze for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences across the southern Fleurieu and KI.The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards recognises Australia’s most exceptional tourism businesses, showcasing the dedication to quality and innovation that defines Australian tourism. This year’s awards not only honoured achievements across 26 categories but also served as a moment of reflection on the vibrant four decades-long history of the Australian Tourism Awards.Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison says a lot has changed about the state’s tourism industry in the 10 years since SA last hosted the national awards.“I was incredibly proud to share some of the advancements we have made to the leading industry delegates here this week.“A massive congratulations to the tourism businesses who took home an award, the accolades are so well-deserved and demonstrate the diversity and quality of our tourism industry on the national stage.”South Australian winners at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards:GOLDTourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries: Seppeltsfield Barossa, BarossaSelf-Contained Accommodation: Old Coach Road Estate, Fleurieu PeninsulaSILVEREcotourism: The Big Duck Boat Tours, Fleurieu PeninsulaTour & Transport Operators: Spirit of the Coorong, Fleurieu PeninsulaAdventure Tourism: Bendleby Ranges, Flinders Ranges & Outback4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation: Oval Hotel, Adelaide BRONZEAboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences: Kool Tours, Kangaroo Island & Fleurieu PeninsulaTourism Marketing & Campaigns: Barossa Australia - Barossa. Be Curious, BarossaExcellence in Accessible Tourism: Adelaide Fringe, AdelaideTourism Industry Council South Australia (TiCSA) delivers the annual South Australian Tourism Awards, with the winners going onto compete in the Australian Tourism Awards. Nominations for the 2025 South Australian Tourism Awards open on Thursday 1 May. For further information, visit the website. 

McLaren Flat Recreation Ground Oval is the place to be for vintage vehicles and old machinery on Sunday 30 March.Organised by the McLaren Flat Community Club, the day will feature classic and historic trucks, tractors, cars, motorbikes and stationary engines.The bar on the oval will be open, with hot foods cooked by sporting clubs and coffee by The Fresh Coffee of Belle-airThere will also be market stalls and a raffle, plus a feature wine wall.The day will run from 10am to 3pm, with gold coin entry; proceeds will go to the Adelaide Hills Motor restoration INC and wine wall proceeds towards works on the McLaren Flat Community Club.

This week, RSPCA South Australia is shining a spotlight on two beautiful pets—Sadie and Chester—who are full of love and ready to find their forever homes.Sadie – The Independent SweetheartRSPCA South AustraliaMeet Sadie, a small, glossy beauty with a heart full of love and a purr you’ll never forget. She’s a toy enthusiast who enjoys chatting when she’s ready for playtime and will happily let you know when it’s cuddle o’clock.While she may be a little shy at first, once Sadie warms up to your routine, she’ll be a confident and loving part of your household. She loves a good fuss, but also appreciates her independence—she’s the definition of a modern cat with character!After spending time in foster care, Sadie is well on her way to becoming the ultimate family cat. All she needs now is a quiet and loving home to call her own.Read more about Sadie hereChester – The Clever, Loving CompanionRSPCA South AustraliaSay hello to Chester, the clever canine with a heart of gold. Chester already knows sit, drop, shake, and high five—what a star! He’s eager to find a forever family that’s ready to have fun, build a bond, and take on life’s adventures together.Chester would be a great fit for families, but he prefers to be the only fur baby in his household. While he gets along with some dogs, he enjoys having all the attention (and cuddles) to himself.Chester is ready to share his love, energy, and smarts with his new best friends. Could that be you?Read more about Chester hereIf you’re looking to welcome a new four-legged family member, Sadie and Chester are waiting to meet you!Visit RSPCA South Australia’s O’Halloran Hill animal care campus or browse available pets at www.rspcasa.org.au.

District Council of Yankalilla has contracted BelgraviaPRO (Bpro) to manage the Normanville Jetty Holiday Park and the Rapid Bay Campground.The agreement follows an evaluation process over more than 18 months that examined various management models, followed by a tender process.Council CEO Nathan Cunningham says Bpro is a recognised leader in park management, bringing extensive experience, skills and knowledge to the role.“Through careful planning and a detailed selection process, Council has chosen Bpro to manage these important community assets. We are confident that Bpro’s industry expertise and proven track record will enhance the visitor experience while ensuring the long-term viability of both sites.”Bpro has a portfolio of more than 42 parks across Australia and New Zealand.CEO Nick Cox says the company is grateful for the opportunity to oversee the management and operations of Normanville Jetty Holiday Park and Rapid Bay Campground.“We’re proud to partner with The District Council of Yankalilla in managing both of these wonderful parks on the Fleurieu Peninsula. “These parks aim to provide a welcoming place for travellers of all ages and backgrounds, offering a range of activities from outdoor adventures to relaxation, where guests can socialise, unwind and explore the surrounding natural attractions,” he says.“This partnership aligns with our commitment to supporting local economies by employing local staff, engaging regional suppliers and investing in community resources.” The council says transition to Bpro’s management has been meticulously planned, ensuring good relationships, extended preparation, on-site handover and provisioning for a smooth transition. “Continuity of service remains a priority and visitors to both the Normanville Jetty Holiday Park and Rapid Bay Campground can expect a seamless experience, with the existing booking processes remaining unchanged.”The contracts were signed under a Management Licence Agreement model on Monday 17 March.More information can be found on the council website.

Waitpinga and Parsons Beaches remain closed until further notice and Victor Harbor horse tram tips to Granite Island have been suspended, following health concerns raised by south coast surfers this week.There have been widespread reports of surfers and beachgoers suffering symptoms including coughing and breathing difficulties, itchy eyes and blurred vision.Dead fish, octopuses and seahorses have washed up on shore and beaches have experienced red staining and excessive foam.The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) issued a statement on Tuesday 18 March, saying it was working with other agencies, including PIRSA Fisheries and SA Health, to attend the scene and take water samples.“It is believed the event could be due to a microalgal bloom that has been driven by hot temperatures and still water and an ongoing marine heatwave, with temperatures currently 2.5C warmer than usual, with little wind and small swell contributing to conditions.”SA Health has issued a warning that exposure to algae, including in aerosols, can cause allergic-type responses, including respiratory irritation, eye irritation and skin rashes.It says ingestion of contaminated water may cause stomach upsets and flu-like, symptoms, which generally disappear once exposure stops or after washing in clean water.As well as the closure of Waitpinga and Parsons, authorities are closely monitoring beaches from Encounter Bay to Hayborough but are not anticipating further closures.The horse tram closure was announced yesterday, Thursday 20 March as a precautionary measure to safeguard horses and staff while awaiting information from SA Health and the EPA.