Fleurieu Peninsula is known for its breathtaking beaches, award-winning wineries, and vibrant local culture. But beyond the stunning landscapes and world-class attractions, one vital element consistently leaves a lasting impression on visitors: exceptional service. Recognising the people who make the Fleurieu truly unforgettable, the Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards has been launched as a groundbreaking initiative to celebrate outstanding hospitality and customer service in the region.A Feel-Good Program with Big ImpactThe Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards is a monthly recognition program aimed at celebrating the frontline heroes of the hospitality and tourism industries. From café staff to hotel managers, tour guides to retail assistants, this initiative honours those who go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for visitors and locals alike.Whether you’re a local business owner or a visitor passing through, the program invites everyone to get involved. Businesses can encourage their teams to deliver stellar service, while customers can use a simple QR code voting system to nominate the staff or establishments that made their visit exceptional.Merrin, from Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism, emphasises the program’s purpose: “Exceptional customer service isn’t just good for business; it’s the foundation of a thriving tourism industry. This program celebrates our region’s best assets—our people—and inspires us all to set new standards for visitor experiences.”How It WorksParticipation in the Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards is straightforward and free, making it accessible to all local businesses. Here’s how you can take part:Deliver Exceptional Service: Encourage your team to provide top-notch hospitality and go the extra mile for every visitor.Promote the Voting Process: Display the QR code voting collateral—available from Visitor Information Centres—in visible areas like counters or tables. Visitors can scan the QR code and vote during their visit or online afterward.Engage Your Team: Equip your staff with knowledge about the program so they can share its value with customers.Votes from the public determine the monthly winner, who will be recognised in local media outlets and awarded a prize worth up to $500. Prizes, ranging from luxurious overnight stays to unique local experiences like surf lessons, also help winners deepen their connection to the Fleurieu Peninsula.Why Your Business Should Get InvolvedJoining the Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards isn’t just about earning recognition; it’s an opportunity to enhance your business’s reputation and contribute to a thriving local economy. Here are some key benefits:Boost Visitor Satisfaction: By focusing on service excellence, businesses can ensure visitors leave with lasting positive impressions, encouraging repeat visits and glowing recommendations.Increase Visibility: Winners and participating businesses gain valuable exposure through local media and the Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism platforms, as well as partnerships with outlets like Hello SA.Celebrate Your Team: Recognising and rewarding employees fosters pride, morale, and job satisfaction, helping to retain top talent.Support Regional Pride: The program showcases the authentic, warm hospitality that defines the Fleurieu brand.Monthly and Yearly CelebrationsEach month, a Service Star will be recognised along with the business they represent. The excitement doesn’t stop there—every year, the program will culminate in a grand celebratory event. At this event, the business and individual who have garnered the most recognition throughout the year will win spectacular prizes, including a free broadcast segment on Hello SA for the business and a personal prize worth up to $1,000 for the individual.Be a Partner in ExcellenceLocal businesses and community members can also participate by becoming partners in the program. By sponsoring a prize for monthly winners, partners contribute to the region’s growth and help fuel its vibrant tourism sector. Partnership benefits include:Strengthening the tourism industrySupporting local jobsIncreasing visitor spendingFostering community pride and collaborationInterested businesses can visit the official Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards website to learn more about partnership opportunities and how to sign up.Building a Legacy of Warm HospitalityThe Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards is more than just a recognition program—it’s a movement to elevate the region’s tourism and hospitality standards while celebrating the people who make it extraordinary. With its focus on connection, storytelling, and authentic experiences, the program shines a light on the Fleurieu’s most valuable resource: its people.As the first winner will be announced in January 2025, now is the perfect time to get involved. Whether you’re a business owner, an employee, or a visitor, you can help make the Fleurieu Peninsula a beacon of hospitality excellence. Together, we can create indelible memories for everyone who visits this remarkable region.For more information on how to participate, vote, or become a partner, visit the Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards website and start making a difference today. Let’s celebrate the heroes of hospitality who keep the Fleurieu shining bright!

Locals and visitors have a unique opportunity this summer to dive into the science shaping the future of the Coorong, Lower Lakes, and Murray Mouth (CLLMM) region. The inaugural Summer Series of Science 2024/25, hosted by the CLLMM Research Centre, offers a range of free, engaging events that explore the region's unique ecosystems and the challenges posed by climate change.From family-friendly activities to expert-led discussions, the five-event series is designed to educate and inspire. Through collaboration with local communities, the Centre aims to deepen understanding of climate change impacts on water systems, wildlife, and coastal environments, while empowering people to take action.In recent years, the CLLMM region has faced significant challenges, from floods and fish kills in 2022 to unusually low temperatures and rainfall in 2023. These events highlight the urgent need to understand and address the effects of climate change on local waterways, bird populations, coastal dunes and more.Sue Ellison, Communications and Engagement Coordinator for the CLLMM Research Centre, emphasises the importance of community involvement.“With our Summer Series of Science, we invite everyone to drop in, learn about our work, and discover how they can contribute. Together, we can fill knowledge gaps and prepare for the challenges ahead,” she says.All events run from 5.30 to 7pm and feature diverse opportunities to engage with science and the region:29 November: Climate Change in the CLLMM – Q&A panel with experts.6 December: Spotlight Speaker Tim Jarvis AM, South Australia’s Australian of the Year 2024.17 January: Spirit of the Coorong Tour – A chance to explore research projects firsthand (fully booked, but expressions of interest are welcome).24 January: Caring for Our Water in CLLMM – Another thought-provoking Q&A panel.7 February: Community Science Showcase – Learn about ongoing projects and how to contribute as a citizen scientist.Established in 2023 and based in Goolwa, the CLLMM Research Centre is at the forefront of addressing the region's critical needs. Through partnerships with First Nations groups, local communities, and scientists, the Centre fosters knowledge sharing and innovative research to protect and preserve the area for future generations.Spaces are limited for some events, so early registration is encouraged. Visit www.cllmmresearchcentre.org to book a place and learn more about the Summer Series of Science.

Good morning! This Wednesday, November 20, mobile speed cameras will be stationed throughout the Fleurieu as part of a broader effort to promote road safety and encourage responsible driving. Below are the locations where speed compliance will be monitored throughout the day. Drive carefully and obey speed limits to help keep everyone safe on the road.BAINS RD, ONKAPARINGA HILLSBARCELONA RD, NOARLUNGA DOWNSCOMMERCIAL RD, SEAFORDDYSON RD, CHRISTIES BEACHESPLANADE, SEAFORDHILLIER RD, REYNELLAHINDMARSH TIERS RD, HINDMARSH TIERSINMAN VALLEY RD, LOWER INMAN VALLEYMAIN SOUTH RD, SECOND VALLEYMAIN SOUTH RD, NORMANVILLEMAIN SOUTH RD, YANKALILLAMAIN SOUTH RD, MYPONGAMAIN SOUTH RD, OLD REYNELLAMAIN ST, YANKALILLAOLD SOUTH RD, OLD REYNELLAPAGES FLAT RD, MYPONGAVICTOR HARBOR RD, MOUNT COMPASS

A driver will face court following a crash at a Goolwa bakery last month.Just before 11am on Sunday 27 October, emergency services were called to Hutchinson Street at Goolwa after a car left the road and crashed into a bakery.There were several people, including customers and staff, inside the shop at the time.A 62-year-old woman, who was a customer inside the shop, was injured in the crash.  She was taken to hospital by ambulance where she was treated for non-life threatening injuries.The driver of the car, a 69-year-old Goolwa woman, was taken to hospital as a precaution but did not appear physically injured.SES crews attended and helped to shore up the structure.The car was removed and towed from the scene.On Monday 18 November, the 69-year-old Goolwa woman, was reported for driving without due care.  She will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

Lack of public transport and inadequate road maintenance have long been issues across the Fleurieu Peninsula and on Kangaroo Island.Anyone with concerns or ideas on local transport priorities can have input into the state government’s planned transport strategy.The strategy aims to guide transport delivery across South Australia over the next 30 years.It will shape how people and goods move around the state, aiming to create a network that supports daily life, whether that’s ensuring smooth food deliveries, easier commutes, or safer travel for family holidays. Regional Development Australia has shared insights via a consultation workshop, drawing on its previous work to establish the public transport and freight needs of the region. It is now encouraging individuals to share their thoughts to make sure the transport needs of the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island are heard.Consultation closes 16 December. Find the strategy details and how to have a say online.

The Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island are gearing up for an exciting opportunity to showcase their charm and hospitality as the AFL Gather Round returns to South Australia from Thursday, 10 April, to Sunday, 13 April 2025. With thousands of football fans set to descend on the state, regional tourism providers are invited to participate in the Festival of Footy program and entice visitors to explore beyond the city limits.The Festival of Footy is a state-wide initiative that encourages businesses to host independent events or special offers tailored to visitors attending Gather Round. Participation is free, and it’s an excellent way to attract footy fans to experience the best of the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island’s food, wine, landscapes, and community spirit.How to Get InvolvedCreate an Offer or Event: From exclusive dining deals to unique experiences, businesses can craft offers that appeal to visitors and complement the footy festivities.Submit Your Event: Applications are open now and must be submitted by Tuesday, 14 January 2025.Benefit from Promotion: Approved events and offers will be included in the Festival of Footy program, reaching a wide audience through South Australia’s official tourism channels.Participation is simple and offers great potential to boost business while highlighting the region’s appeal. Imagine hosting post-game celebrations, themed events, or enticing fans with accommodation and dining packages that make staying in the Fleurieu or Kangaroo Island irresistible.Tourism providers interested in being part of this exciting event can find guidelines, key dates, and application details on the Tourism SA website.Don’t miss this chance to connect with new audiences and position your business as a must-visit destination during Gather Round 2025. Start planning your event today and help make the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island the ultimate destination for visitors April!

19 Nov 2024 9:48amA man will face court today charged with serious drug and weapons offences after he was arrested at Aldinga Beach yesterday.Police attended and searched an address at Aldinga Beach about 11am on Monday 18 November.It will be alleged officers found a quantity of GHB, methamphetamine, cannabis and vials of liquid steroid.  Weapons, including tasers, an extendable baton and spud gun, along with mobile phones and $11,025 cash were also seized.The 41-year-old Aldinga Beach man was arrested and charged with two counts of trafficking in a controlled drug, possession of a prescription drug, possession of a firearm without a licence and three counts of possess prohibited weapon.He was refused police bail and will appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court today, Tuesday 19 November.Anyone with information about the manufacture, sale or supply of illicit drugs or the possession of illegal weapons in our community is encouraged to report it to police via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.auCO2400046397

Kangaroo Island Council has resolved to remove existing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations located at the Civic Centre in Kingscote, Parndana Town Hall, Penneshaw Community Business Centre, and American River Campground. This decision, made at the council meeting on 12 November, is part of a broader strategy to align local infrastructure with current EV standards. Removing the stations is driven by the recent withdrawal of ChargePoint from Australia, which has made the chargers obsolete. A detailed review also identified limitations such as compatibility issues, outdated technology, and site compliance challenges.Mayor Michael Pengilly says, “While I understand electric vehicles are becoming more common, we must ensure that our infrastructure serves the community’s needs efficiently and effectively. “These older chargers don’t meet those standards and are costly to maintain. By collaborating with third-party providers, we’re enabling modern, up-to-date charging options.”The council says its decision is supported by the state government and the Royal Automobile Association (RAA), which are establishing RAA Charge, the state’s first border-to-border network of EV charging stations. This network will include 140 sites across South Australia, featuring 86 AC Fast 7kW charging sites, 37 DC Rapid 150kW charging sites, and 17 DC Ultra-Rapid 200kW charging sites. With 75 per cent of these stations in regional areas and 98 per cent no more than 200km apart, the network will make EV travel more accessible throughout South Australia.There are already six RAA Charge stations on Kangaroo Island, located in Penneshaw, Kingscote, and at the Kangaroo Island Airport. The council says these existing locations provide accessible, reliable charging options for EV drivers, helping meet current demand without requiring council-operated facilities.“We have to be realistic about the role EVs will play on Kangaroo Island,” Mayor Pengilly says.“Supporting RAA’s extensive network allows us to meet the demand for EV infrastructure without unnecessary financial and operational demands on Council.”For more information on the RAA Charge network, visit the website. 

From now until November 24, mobile speed cameras will be stationed in country areas to monitor speed compliance and promote safer driving practices. Below is a list of the locations where these cameras will be active during this period. Please drive responsibly and adhere to speed limits to help make our country roads safer for everyone.ADELAIDE RD, HAYBOROUGHALEXANDRINA RD, CURRENCY CREEKARMSTRONG RD, VICTOR HARBORBEACH RD, GOOLWA BEACHBRICKYARD RD, PORT ELLIOTCROWS NEST RD, PORT ELLIOTCROZIER RD, VICTOR HARBORFENCHURCH ST, GOOLWAFORKTREE RD, CARRICKALINGAGOOLWA RD, MIDDLETONGOOLWA RD, CURRENCY CREEKMAIN SOUTH RD, SECOND VALLEYMAIN SOUTH RD, DELAMEREMAIN SOUTH RD, YANKALILLAMAIN SOUTH RD, CAPE JERVISMAIN ST, YANKALILLANORTH TCE, PORT ELLIOTOCEAN RD, HAYBOROUGHPORT ELLIOT RD, PORT ELLIOTPORT ELLIOT RD, GOOLWA BEACHSEAVIEW RD, VICTOR HARBORVICTOR HARBOR RD, HINDMARSH VALLEYVICTOR HARBOR RD, MOUNT JAGGEDVICTOR HARBOR RD, MOUNT COMPASSVICTORIA ST, VICTOR HARBOR

With the bushfire season upon us, the South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) is encouraging residents to take a proactive step toward safety by creating a 5-Minute Bushfire Plan. This quick and effective tool is designed to help households prepare for potential bushfire threats, ensuring they know what to do if a fire occurs in their area.The 5-Minute Bushfire Plan provides an easy, step-by-step process to identify risks, plan actions, and make decisions that can save lives and property. By taking just a few minutes to complete the plan, residents can significantly reduce the stress and uncertainty that arises during emergencies.Key steps in the 5-Minute Bushfire Plan include:Assessing the level of bushfire risk to your home and surroundings.Identifying what actions to take on high-risk days, such as leaving early or staying to defend your property.Preparing an emergency kit with essential items.Establishing a communication plan to stay informed and connected with loved ones during an emergency.CFS Chief Officer, Brett Loughlin, emphasised the importance of preparation. "It’s critical that every South Australian takes the time to understand their bushfire risk and develop a plan that suits their circumstances. This simple action could make all the difference in a crisis."The CFS also recommends reviewing and practicing the plan regularly to ensure all household members are familiar with it. Parents are encouraged to involve children in the planning process to help them feel more secure and prepared.The 5-Minute Bushfire Plan can be accessed online through the CFS website. Printed copies and further guidance are also available from local CFS stations.Don't wait for the smoke to start rolling in—take action now to protect your family and property. Visit the CFS website at 5-Minute Bushfire Plan for more details and to complete your plan today.

The City of Onkaparinga has welcomed a state government announcement for a 230ha, 3,600-home precinct at Port Stanvac, following years of advocacy from the council, community and local businesses.Mayor Moira Were says unlocking the former oil refinery site – the largest undeveloped land holding in metropolitan Adelaide – is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the city and the state.“We’ve long advocated for Port Stanvac to be master-planned to unlock its full potential, and to meet our communities’ and businesses’ desire to see a good balance of affordable housing, industrial land, and the preservation of the stunning coastline,” she says.“This is a unique, one-off opportunity to drive economic, social and environmental benefits and we can’t afford to waste it.“The announcement of 3,600 new homes is an important one given the housing crisis, and we’re pleased to see some of these earmarked as affordable housing.“The proposed precinct also needs to meet the demand for employment opportunities from population growth in areas such as Aldinga, Hackham, Port Noarlunga South, Sellicks Beach, and the future growth of Lonsdale over the next decade.“There are currently only 29 hectares of vacant employment land in Onkaparinga, making Port Stanvac a pivotal part of the broader Lonsdale employment precinct and integral to creating local employment and sustaining jobs growth.“Our business leaders, the Onkaparinga Ambassadors, have been strong advocates for the future of Port Stanvac, highlighting that the site holds immense potential to become a hub for sustainable business innovation, employment growth, tourism, and environmental stewardship.”Mayor Were says the council’s focus now would be to work with the state government and developer, MAB, to ensure the local community and businesses’ wishes were front of mind.“As with other recent land releases in Onkaparinga, we’ll be pushing for this development be sustainable and climate resilient, with the right infrastructure in place at the right time,” she says.“The complete remediation of this site will be paramount, and we also want to see open space and access to the world-class coastline retained through the development.“Ultimately, we want to see this development and its mix of uses become models of sustainability, thriving industry and community wellbeing, setting new benchmarks for economic, social and environmental excellence in SA.“I encourage everyone to have their say when the state government opens for community engagement.”

Words: Sarah Ansell. Courtesy Coast Lines MagazineInterested in learning more about nature, spending time outdoors and helping science at the same time? Citizen science is a way for us all to contribute to scientific research by observing and recording information about nature around us.Getting involved in citizen science is fun, easy, and a great way to make a difference! Here’s how you can start contributing to important research with just a few simple steps:1. Download a citizen science app like iNaturalist, TurtleSat, Wild Orchid Watch, or Frog Watch SA. These apps make it super easy to share what you see in nature—right from your phone!2. Head outdoors and explore! Whether you’re on a bushwalk, beach walk, or visiting a local park, keep an eye out for plants, animals, or fungi. If you spot a turtle, orchid, or hear a frog call, grab your phone and take some images or record the sound.3. Share your findings by uploading them through the app. It’s really simple—just take a picture, add the location, and submit. Your observations help scientists understand species distribution and health.4. Discover more about your local flora and fauna by browsing observations on the Atlas of Living Australia (https://www.ala.org.au). It’s a great way to learn about the diversity of plants and animals that can be found in your area.Whether you’re a nature lover wanting to learn more, or just curious, citizen science is a great way to get involved and make a positive impact for the environment. Want to learn more? Pop into the Strathalbyn Natural Resource at 6 Catherine Street Strathalbyn for support in uploading and using citizen science platforms.Second Nature Conservancy are a not-for-profit environmental organisation.Visit us

Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu and Alexandrina Council have partnered to offer a free information session on gazania management.It will be hosted by the Clayton Bay Nursery and Environment Group on Thursday 21 November from 1pm to 2pm.Gazanias are escaped garden plants and highly invasive weeds, which readily establish in sand dunes and on roadside verges.Their high demand for nutrients and moisture means they crowd out native plants and impact on biodiversity.The workshop is designed to help plant lovers manage the weed in gardens and roadside verges.It will cover effective control methods, native plant alternatives and helpful resources.Light refreshments will be provided; register to attend via Eventbrite.

This week, RSPCA South Australia is proud to introduce Mitzi and Jake—two adorable pets ready to find their forever homes at the O’Halloran Hill animal care campus.Dog of the Week – MitziMeet Mitzi, with animal ID 191891! This loveable puppy is as cute as they come, but she’s also a big responsibility. Mitzi is looking for a committed family who will help her grow into a well-behaved adult dog through training, socialisation, and love.Puppies like Mitzi thrive on learning foundation behaviours such as sitting, polite greetings, and walking nicely on a leash. As she explores the world, Mitzi will naturally engage in typical puppy antics like mouthing, digging, and jumping—it’s up to her family to guide her in a positive and fun way.Mitzi promises to bring joy and boundless energy into your life, so if you’re ready to welcome this little cutie and commit to her lifetime of love, come meet her! For more details, visit her profile here.Cat of the Week – JakeSay hello to Jake, with animal ID 191146! This sweet and silly boy loves affection and is slowly building his confidence around new faces. While Jake is still learning that strangers aren’t so scary, he’s eager to find a kind and patient family who will give him plenty of time to adjust at his own pace.Jake’s ideal home is a quiet one without young children, where he can feel safe and thrive with loving pawrents who respect his needs. If you’re looking for a loyal and affectionate companion who’s ready to grow with you, Jake could be the perfect fit! To learn more about Jake or to meet him, visit his profile here.Both Mitzi and Jake are waiting to bring joy and companionship to their new families. If you’re interested in adopting, visit RSPCA South Australia’s O’Halloran Hill animal care campus today!

Alexandrina Council is consulting the community on proposals for three possible short-stay Recreational Vehicle (RV) Parks in Strathalbyn, Mount Compass and Goolwa. The three areas proposed are:adjacent to Parker Avenue and behind the Visitor Information Centre in Strathalbyn.Sam Court Reserve at Mount Compass behind the IGA supermarket.Barrage Road Reserve, adjacent to the PS Federal, at Goolwa. The consultation follows a scoping study in August that considered possible sites for short-stay RV parks and the potential for 'RV Friendly Town' accreditation. To qualify for accreditation with the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia as an RV Friendly Town, there are a set of essential criteria that must be met which include: provision of appropriate parking within the town centre, with access to a general shopping area for groceries and fresh produce.provision of short-term, low-cost overnight parking (24 to 48 hours) for self- contained RVs, as close as possible to the town centre. access to potable water.access to a free dump point at an appropriate location. “After considering the scoping study, Council has decided to see what the community thinks about three proposed locations in Strathalbyn, Mount Compass and Goolwa,” says Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes. “Based on the initial investigation, these sites seemed to be the most suitable, but the community may have other ideas, and this consultation allows people to suggest other sites that could have the potential to be converted to a short-stay RV Park. “The three RV Parks Council has proposed are not designed to compete with caravan parks. “They are proposed for overnight stays or stays for three nights maximum. They would fill a gap in towns where there is a shortage of RV parking and overnight spaces.” Submissions on the proposal to create short-stay RV Parks will be accepted by Alexandrina Council until Friday 29 November at 5pm. To view the proposal, including maps, and to fill in an online survey, head to Council’s My Say website. 

Fire Bans & Fire Danger Rating AdviceIssued on 15 November 2024 at 16:40Total Fire BansMedia and the public are advised that TOTAL FIRE BANS have been declared for 16 November 2024 in the following Fire Ban Districts:West Coast - ExtremeEastern Eyre Peninsula - CatastrophicLower Eyre Peninsula - ExtremeFlinders - ExtremeMid North - ExtremeMount Lofty Ranges - ExtremeYorke Peninsula - CatastrophicRiverland - ExtremeMurraylands - ExtremeUpper South East - ExtremeWhere Total Fire Bans have been declared, very hazardous fire weather conditions are predicted.The Total Fire Ban will apply for 24 hours from midnight tonight to midnight tomorrow.The CFS recommends that you implement your Bushfire Survival Plan.Fire Danger RatingsWhere fire ban districts have a forecast fire danger rating of Catastrophic, well prepared, well constructed and defended homes may not be safe during a fire. To ensure your survival you should leave tonight or early tomorrow morning.Where fire ban districts have a forecast fire danger rating of Extreme, only well prepared, well constructed and actively defended houses are likely to offer safety during a fire.

Following an overwhelming response from the community last year, Kangaroo Island Our Town has announced the return of its Farmgate/Roadside Christmas Display competition for 2024. This much-loved event encourages residents to decorate their farm gates and roadside areas in festive style, creating a vibrant Christmas atmosphere across the island. This year’s competition is possible thanks to the support of three new sponsors: AGKI, the Kangaroo Island Landscape Board, and Junction.Participants have the chance to compete in five festive categories, each with a $100 prize:Most ColourfulMost ComicalMost CreativeMost ChristmassyCommunity FavouriteEach entry will be judged by a panel, with the winners in categories 1 to 4 to be announced at the Kingscote Christmas Pageant on Friday 13 December. The Community Choice award, decided by popular vote, will be announced the following week on Friday 20 December.To enter, participants must submit a photo of their display, which must be visible from public roadside areas outside of townships (beyond the 80 km/h zones around townships). Photos can be shared on the Kangaroo Island Community Centre Facebook page or sent by email. Be sure to include the roadside address of your display to make it easy for community members to spot and enjoy.Entries close on Thursday 12 December, so residents are encouraged to start planning their displays early. Kangaroo Island Our Town also requests that participants keep their displays visible until 4 January 2025, ensuring the Christmas cheer continues into the new year.The competition offers a fantastic way to showcase community spirit and creativity while brightening the holiday season for locals and visitors alike. For more information, contact the Community Centre on 8553 2809.

Emergency services are currently attending a vehicle accident at the intersection of Crows Nest Road and Higgins Road in Port Elliot, reported at 2 PM today. Motorists are urged to avoid the area as crews work to manage the scene. Please plan alternate routes and proceed with caution in the vicinity.

The Fleurieu Peninsula has emerged as a standout region at the 2024 South Australian Wedding Awards, with a remarkable showing of local winners and finalists celebrated for their contributions to the wedding industry. Held last Wednesday 6 November, this annual event highlights excellence across various wedding services and brings together the industry’s finest from across the state. This year, the Fleurieu region’s talent and dedication were on full display, with local vendors and venues capturing top honours in several categories.Fleurieu Peninsula’s Award-Winning Wedding Services1st Night Honeymoon Winner: Woodburn Homestead in Langhorne Creek took home the award for Best Honeymoon Venue, providing newlyweds with a memorable and romantic retreat. Woodburn HomesteadFunction Coordinator Winner: Mark from Lloyd Brothers in McLaren Vale was honoured as Best Function Coordinator, recognised for his exceptional service and dedication to creating unforgettable wedding experiences. Lloyd BrothersIndependent Wedding Caterers: Chief Catering, based in Myponga, took the top spot in the Independent Wedding Caterers category, impressing with their culinary excellence and commitment to quality. Meanwhile, Cindy’s Classic Gourmet from Goolwa Beach earned a runner-up position for their outstanding catering service. Chief Catering | Cindy’s Classic GourmetIndependent Wedding Consultant Runner-Up: Fig Tree Weddings and Events in Langhorne Creek was named runner-up for their consulting services, recognised for their creative and seamless wedding planning expertise. Fig Tree Weddings and EventsMakeup Artist Winner: Darcy Louise Beauty from Strathalbyn was crowned Best Makeup Artist, celebrated for her talent in creating flawless looks that enhance the natural beauty of brides. Darcy Louise BeautyRestaurant Reception Runner-Up: Beach Road Wines in McLaren Vale earned a runner-up position for Restaurant Reception, recognised for its stunning setting and exquisite dining experience that make it an ideal venue for wedding celebrations. Beach Road WinesThe Fleurieu Peninsula’s exceptional performance at this year’s awards reflects the region’s strong reputation in the wedding industry, with numerous finalists and winners excelling across categories.For a complete list of award categories, winners, and finalists, visit the official ABIA Awards website.