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Support local biodiversity through citizen science
Support local biodiversity through citizen science

16 October 2025, 7:42 PM

It’s time to dig out the waders – the Waterbug Bioblitz spring round is fast approaching for Eastern Hills and Alexandrina Plains residents. A popular citizen-science opportunity, the Waterbug Bioblitz includes two separate events in both the Angas-Finniss and Bremer catchments and will see pools at over 25 sites tested for water quality and macroinvertebrate (waterbug) activity.Held in November, the events encourage the community to get involved in caring for their patch, joined by volunteer groups and Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu aquatic ecologists.Senior Stewardship Officer Dana Miles says the family-friendly events are open to all interested in getting their hands dirty in the name of conservation.“We’re really pleased to be working with Second Nature Conservancy once again to host these two events, on Peramangk and Ngarrindjeri Country,” she says.“The help of the volunteers makes the events efficient and exciting. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the health of the waterways and catchment and help inform decision making around water planning. Plus, you never know what we might find!”In recent years, the Waterbug Bioblitz has yielded some great insights into the two catchments. Several rare species have been located, which informs ecologists of where theirwork can make an impact.“We generally meet up at the base in the morning, have a quick training, then split up in groups to monitor different sites, before meeting back at the lab to get a close-up look at what we have found and take records,” Dana Miles says. “It’s a great learning experience and an opportunity to be a real scientist for the day. We supply all the equipment and lunch; all we need are keen volunteers with a love for nature.”Registrations are essential.Bremer Waterbug Bioblitz – Friday 7 November (Wistow).  Angas Finniss Waterbug Bioblitz - Friday 14 November (Strathalbyn).The Waterbug Bioblitz program is delivered in South Australia by the Hills and Fleurieu, Northern and Yorke and Murraylands and Riverland landscape boards, and partners.The Angas-Finniss and Bremer Waterbug Bioblitz events are delivered by Second Nature Conservancy, with support from Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu and the Department for Environment and Water’s Flows for the Future program. These events are funded by Landscape Levy and the state government’s Citizen Science Grants program.

Full algal bloom summer plan released
Full algal bloom summer plan released

15 October 2025, 8:08 PM

After a drip feed of announcements this week, the state and federal governments have released the $102.5 million Algal Bloom Summer Plan, a comprehensive suite of measures to protect coastal communities.The jointly funded plan follows consultation with experts, industry and the broader community and has three core objectives:Ensuring South Australians can enjoy their summer.Backing coastal businesses and communities.Advancing research and protecting the environment.Along with business and tourism supports, additional beach patrols and information-sharing, the Plan includes an investment of more than $37 million in science and the environment.There will be a $20.6 million investment in the natural environment, with four key targets:Large-scale native oyster reef restorationConstructing new limestone native oyster reefs along the coast. When placed in gulfs at the right time, these reefs create an environment where native oysters can grow into a natural reef.Community shellfish reef restorationCreating additional community recycled oyster reefs – bringing the total number to 25 projects around the state. These reefs use recycled oyster shells, placed in strategic locations, to create a natural habitat for new oysters and marine life.Seagrass and blue carbon restorationFunding to undertake seagrass restoration research in the Gulf St Vincent. Seagrass can help filter excess nutrients from the water, providing a food source for bacteria that inhibit algal growth, and improving overall water quality.Threatened and vulnerable marine species breeding A targeted breeding, conservation and fish stocking program for vulnerable and threatened species impacted by the algal bloom, alongside a biodiversity education program.There will also be a further $17.3 million for science, research and monitoring, including:Water monitoring and forecastingA further investment in South Australia’s capacity for real-time oceanographic water quality monitoring and forecasting through a collaboration with the CSIRO, including the acquisition of state-of-the-art monitoring bouys. The buoys will be moored at key locations and integrated with ocean modelling and AI forecasting to support early detection.Offshore water analysisFunding towards undertaking offshore water analysis in the deep waters of Gulf St Vincent, Spencer Gulf, and the southern Fleurieu Peninsula. The program will build on understanding of the link between offshore and onshore bloom distribution and movement.Establish an Office for Algal Bloom ResearchA new $3.2 million South Australian-based office will serve as a central hub for national integration of algal bloom science and undertake vital long-term research into the formation, spread and impact of algal bloom events.AI CytobotsA $1 million trial of state-of-the-art AI-powered submersible cytobots to build on understanding of phytoplankton communities and help with the development of live detection and early warning systems. The Imaging FlowCytobot collects data and generates high-resolution images of suspended particles which can be transmitted back to shore in real-time.Algal bloom mitigationInvestigating and trialling various algal bloom mitigation techniques for controlled waterways, such as rivers, estuaries and lakes, including clay and gyroid absorbent sponge technology.This is in addition to measures already announced, including dining and travel vouchers, an advertising campaign, the beachsafe app, extra beach patrols and clean-up squads and a new round of industry support grants. 

Goolwa waste depot remains closed
Goolwa waste depot remains closed

15 October 2025, 1:43 AM

Fleurieu Regional Waste Authority (FRWA) has issued a plea to the public to dispose of batteries responsibly following a fire that has closed Its Goolwa waste and recycling depot.Investigation of the fire, which broke out on the afternoon of Saturday 11 October, has revealed the cause was a battery.Approximately 50 CFS firefighters, with support from MFS crews, worked to contain the fire, using heavy machinery to spread out waste piles so crews in breathing apparatus could extinguish the fire. The shed was partially destroyed, with damage estimated in excess of $500,000.The depot has been closed since to enable the investigation and clean-up; it will remain closed until at least Friday 17 October, when FRWA hopes it will again be operational.All kerbside bin collections have continued on the days scheduled, but some have been delayed until later in the day drivers have to travel greater distances to unload.Yankalilla Depot is open today Wednesday 15 October and tomorrow Thursday 16 October, while the Strathalbyn Depot will also be open Thursday 16 October.FRWA has issued a reminder that no batteries can be disposed of in any type of bin.It is free to safely dispose of batteries at all FRWA Depots as well as over 5000 locations Australia-wide, including supermarkets. Visit the bcycle website for locations.FRWA covers the Alexandrina, Kangaroo Island, Victor Harbor and Yankalilla council areas. For updates on the fire recovery and waste collection across the region visit the website.

Dine for half price with more vouchers
Dine for half price with more vouchers

14 October 2025, 8:05 PM

Dining vouchers have been added to the Coast is Calling giveaways with 300,000 South Australians to receive up to $50 cashback off a meal.The new program designed to support coastal hospitality businesses impacted by the algal bloom this summer.The $15 million Coast is Calling - Dining Cashback will cover the same coastal areas across South Australia as the travel voucher program and will be funded by the state and federal governments as part of the Algal Bloom Summer Plan.A public ballot will open on Monday 3 November, to be drawn on Monday 10 November, with 60,000 South Australians winning a dining cashback to be used up to Sunday 7 December.A further four draws of 60,000 cashback opportunities will be held for dining periods spanning December, January, February and March – with a ballot draw at the start of each month for use in that month.South Australians can sign up for the draw throughout the program, with unsuccessful ballot winners to be automatically entered into subsequent draws unless they opt out.Ballot winners will receive a unique code. To claim the cashback, diners will be required to upload a copy of their tax invoice from a participating business to a website along with the code to receive 50% of the cost of their meal paid back, up to a maximum of $50.Participating businesses must be hospitality businesses in eligible coastal postcodes serving food, including restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs, as well as takeaway venues such as fish and chip shops.The dining vouchers are in addition to the Coast is Calling Travel Vouchers for accommodation and experiences, which open 1 December.For entry details and full terms and conditions, go to the website.

Cittaslow breaks ground on new community garden
Cittaslow breaks ground on new community garden

14 October 2025, 1:32 AM

Cittaslow Goolwa has announced the official launch of a new community garden in central Goolwa, following the signing of a long-term lease by Education Minister Blair Boyer. This milestone marks a new chapter in Cittaslow Goolwa’s nearly two-decade long commitment to advancing local quality of life, sustainability, education, and community collaboration.Cittaslow, or ‘slow town’, is a whole-of-community approach to promoting quality of life and sustainability in towns and cities based on a partnership between local government and communities. In March 2007, Goolwa was accredited by Cittaslow International as the first Cittaslow town in Australia.The new garden will be situated directly behind the Goolwa Children’s Centre (GCC), on vacant land facing Chrystal Street. “This project symbolises our commitment to sustainable living, learning, and building community,” says Michael Keen, President of Cittaslow Goolwa Inc. “We appreciate the efforts of the property team from the Department of Education, Training and Skills, and the Education Minister’s support.”The new garden will feature raised beds and wide access paths to allow for all mobility levels, child-friendly spaces and improved facilities for plant propagation and communal events. This new community venture will complement the strong relationship developed over more than seven years between the GCC and volunteers from the existing Cittaslow community garden. With financial support from the Goolwa Community Bank – Bendigo Bank Goolwa & District, volunteer gardeners have supplied fresh fruit and vegetables from their existing community garden to the children, staff and families at the GCC.“Having Cittaslow locating right next to the Children’s Centre will be a fantastic opportunity to build that partnership, not only receiving the fresh food but also playing an active part in learning plant growing and cultivating the fresh produce,” says Donna McAuley, Director of GCC.“There are also plans to run family cooking lessons/groups using the fresh produce,” “Food security is an ongoing and complex issue in our community and affects nearly all of our families in some way. “The food support program we have running with Cittaslow is an important part of our Children’s Centre. Even just to have a community garden that is accessible to parentsand children to gather their thoughts in is something we are looking forward to.” Donna says.Michael Keen says while the existing community garden has been greatly valued and well-used over the years, the site faces limitations including its location on the outskirts of Goolwa, inadequate parking and access to power. The new site in the heart of Goolwa will provide improved infrastructure, greater accessibility, and enhanced opportunities for local engagement and growth. Located near Goolwa Public School and Goolwa Secondary College, it will facilitate interactions with local students and parents of all ages.Nathan Hunter, Principal of Goolwa Primary School, says he is delighted about the new garden. “This exciting development not only provides a hands-on opportunity for children and families to connect with nature and explore the origins and cycles of food, but also deepens community engagement across generations,” he says. “The gardens represent a meaningful extension of the growing education precinct here in Goolwa, reinforcing the heart of learning within our town. “By cultivating these shared spaces, we are nurturing relationships, strengthening community ties, and creating lasting educational experiences for all.”Cittaslow welcomes the involvement of community members; anyone interested in learning more can contact Michael Keen via email. Find out more about Cittaslow Goolwa and the wider Cittaslow movement on the website.

More travel vouchers for summer
More travel vouchers for summer

13 October 2025, 7:32 PM

South Australians can secure one of 30,000 travel vouchers for their summer holidays, with a bigger, expanded and extended round of the popular Coast is Calling travel voucher program. Vouchers of up to $500 for accommodation and $100 for experiences will be available for coastal destinations, funded as part of the state and federal governments’ Algal Bloom Summer Plan, aiming to boost travel and economic activity along the state’s coast.This round will be bigger than the first, with the number of vouchers increasing from 20,000 to 30,000, and more higher value $200 and $500 vouchers available.It will be expanded to include holiday rentals, such as Airbnbs, which are registered on the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse and have an ABN, the Kangaroo Island ferry and additional experiences including guided sporting experiences and additional leisure and entertainment activities.The round will also be extended, covering a longer period of travel between 5 December and 26 April.There will be a public ballot from 1-3 December, with the ballot draw on 4 December. Voucher recipients will need to book by 19 January, and any unclaimed vouchers will be put into a redraw on 22 January to ensure as many vouchers are possible are used.The first round of Coast is Calling travel vouchers has already injected more than $2.7 million in total booking value alone to coastal regions, according to Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison.“Another 30,000 vouchers released for summer will be a game-changer for many coastal businesses who rely on this holiday period to set themselves up for the rest of the year.“The beauty of these vouchers is the kick-on effects to local businesses such as pubs, cafes, takeaway shops, and retail that all help make a coastal town unique.The voucher program is delivered by the South Australian Tourism Commission and works in tandem with ‘The Coast is Calling’ marketing campaign to drive local visitation to the state’s coastal regions and marine based tourism businesses, as well as promote marine recreation activities.The second round of the travel voucher program and associated Coast is Calling marketing campaign promoting South Australia’s coastal communities will cost $5.5 million.The criteria for the summer round will be the same as the first round, with businesses in eligible coastal postcodes invited to submit an expression of interest to be part of Round 2 of the program from 27 October to 7 November 2025.South Australians aged 18 and over can enter the ballot.Vouchers available:•   $100 experience vouchers•   $100 accommodation vouchers (1-night minimum stay)•   $200 accommodation vouchers (2-night minimum stay)•   $500 accommodation vouchers (5-night minimum stay)For entry details and full terms and conditions, visit the website. 

Property owners urged to act ahead of fire season
Property owners urged to act ahead of fire season

13 October 2025, 2:15 AM

Kangaroo Island Council is encouraging all property owners to act early to prepare their properties ahead of the upcoming Fire Danger Season.Under the Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005, every property owner has a legal responsibility to take reasonable steps to prevent or reduce the risk of fire. This includes keeping grass short, removing piles of vegetation, and ensuring properties are free from flammable materials.The council’s Fire Prevention Officer will begin inspections across the Island in the coming weeks to identify potential fire hazards. Where necessary, property owners may receive a Section 105F Hazard Reduction Notice, outlining the works required to make their property safe.Mayor Michael Pengilly says early action is one of the most effective ways to reduce bushfire risk.“Each year, we see the devastating impact that bushfires can have. By taking simple steps now, like mowing grass, removing rubbish and clearing around homes, you’re helping protect your property, your neighbours and our Island community.“This is not just about compliance; it’s about community safety and shared responsibility.”Property owners who receive a notice must complete the works by the due date. If the works are not completed, the council may arrange a contractor to carry out the work and recover the full cost, along with a $473 expiation fee. Serious non-compliance can attract fines of up to $10,000 under the Act.The Fire Danger Season for Kangaroo Island is expected to begin in mid-November and run through to the end of April, subject to confirmation by the SA Country Fire Service. One-off mowing is often not enough, regular maintenance throughout the season is essential.Residents who need advice or assistance can contact Council’s Fire Prevention Officer on 8553 4500 or via email. A list of local contractors and a FAQ sheet are available on Council’s website. 

Record beach patrols and an app for summer safety
Record beach patrols and an app for summer safety

12 October 2025, 8:16 PM

South Australians will be able to access daily reports on algal bloom conditions at popular beaches through Surf Life Saving’s Beachsafe app – backed by record Surf Life Saving beach patrols - as part of the Algal Bloom Summer Plan.The free app, and companion website, will provide easy-to-understand information to help them make informed decisions about how best to enjoy the beach.The state government’s beach clean-up crews will conduct visual algal bloom inspections at 23 locations across the metropolitan and south coast each morning from North Haven to Goolwa.Based on these inspections, the Beachsafe app and website will let the public know three clear pieces of information:If the beach is clear of abnormal foam.If the water is discoloured or not.What time the beach was last cleaned.Each report will include a fresh picture of the beach, including a view of the water, to provide more information on local algal bloom conditions.The Beachsafe app will be backed by a record deployment of Surf Life Saving beach patrols - with eight popular beaches having seven-day ‘Between the Flags’ Surf Life Saving patrols all through summer.The following Fleurieu beaches will have daily reports on the Beachsafe app: Aldinga, Goolwa, Middleton, Normanville, Port Elliot, Port Noarlunga, Sellicks, South Port and two at Victor Harbor.Metropolitan beaches included are: Brighton, Glenelg, Grange, Hallett Cove, Henley, Largs Bay, Moana, North Haven, Seacliffe, Semaphore, Someone, Tennyson and West Beach.The Beachsafe reports will be expanded from the initial 23 sites to include more regional beaches ahead of summer and the school holidays.Regular beach activities will continue throughout summer, including the nippers program, Vacswim, community surf rescue courses, CALD water safety programs, surf babies and surf education.The consistent advice from SA Health is that South Australian beaches can still be enjoyed but it is best to stay away from foamy or discoloured water, which may cause irritation.The state’s nearly 3,000 volunteer patrolling Surf Life Savers returned to beaches on the weekend. From December 1, the patrols will increase to seven days a week, up from weekends and public holidays, at the following beaches:SemaphoreHenleyGlenelgBrightonPort NoarlungaMoanaAldingaGoolwaThe daily patrols will continue all the way through to the conclusion of Daylight Saving on April 6, 2026Damien Marangon is CEO of Surf Life Saving SA. “This investment in our Beachsafe app will help people make informed decisions before they even get to the coast — including where their nearest patrolled beach is and what conditions to expect, “ he says. “Last year, South Australia recorded the highest number of coastal drownings on record, so it has never been more important for people to swim between the red and yellow flags. “By making this information more accessible and easy to understand, we’re helping families plan their day with confidence and keeping more South Australians safe this summer.”The extra beach patrols and the Beachsafe app are a part of the state and federal governments’ Algal Bloom Summer Plan, which will be released in full later this week.

School robotics team achieves world ranking
School robotics team achieves world ranking

09 October 2025, 8:16 PM

A middle school robotics team from Victor Harbor is showing that Australian students can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the smartest teens from China and the United States.Team ‘Invictus’ from Investigator College shot to 7th in the world and 1st in Australia after a dominant win at a VEX Robotics Competition at Woodcroft College on 25 September.Year 9 team members Aidin, Ollie, Charlie and Ben have been spending their lunchtimes and robotics classes refining their robot, and now have their sights set on the state, national and international championships.With their Senior School Team 40% Luck also finishing first in their most recent tournament, there’s no limit to what Investigator College’s teams can achieve, says Principal John Robinson.“This shows that with the right opportunities, Australian students can hold their own against the very best from around the world.“Results like these prove that talent isn’t limited by geography. We can be very optimistic about the future of innovation here in Australia, knowing that we have such bright young minds on our shores.“As a school, it is affirming to see what can happen when you support your passionate teachers and invest in your programs, giving students a chance to shine.“Our new centrepiece building will feature purpose-built robotics studios—who knows what our students will achieve once they have these at their disposal?”The new building is under construction and is scheduled to open in 2026.After a busy stretch of international competitions, Investigator College’s team Invictus now sits 20th globally while maintaining its top spot in Australia.

First Nations artwork wanted
First Nations artwork wanted

09 October 2025, 2:11 AM

Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu is calling on Aboriginal artists to design the artwork that will help shape the new regional landscape plan and inspire the community to care for the land,water and nature of the Hills and Fleurieu region.At the heart of the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Plan 2026-2031 is a deep respect for the Ngarrindjeri, Kaurna, and Peramangk peoples, who have cared for Country for generations.Caroline Dorr, Team Leader for Regional Engagement at Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu, is encouraging both established and emerging Aboriginal artists to get involved.“To honour the connection that our First Nations have with the Hills and Fleurieu, it’s enormously important to ensure that their artwork is represented in the plan and beyond.“We are encouraging people to submit an Expression of Interest before 3 November. We’ll then start a process of choosing the right artist, or artists, for the piece and working withthem to negotiate some of the details. This is a paid and commissioned piece of artwork and we’re excited to see what’s created.“Both individual artists and co-creators are welcome to apply. We would love to see art that celebrates the region as a place of shared culture, connection and care, representing theenduring relationships First Nations peoples hold with our lands, waters, seas and skies.“The process of submitting is simple and can be completed online. If you would like to complete the EOI via hardcopy or phone, we can certainly accommodate that too – pleasecontact our First Nations Partnerships Officer, Matt Turner, via 8391 7500.”Submissions can be made before Monday 3 November via the website.“This is more than an art commission, it’s a chance to shape how the story of Country is told. The landscape plan will reflect First Nations values, voices, and vision. Your artwork can helpbring that story to life,” Ms. Dorr says.

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