The OceanView Lifestyle Resort, a $180 million development, has officially been approved by the City of Victor Harbor, marking the beginning of a new over-50s community on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Located along Waitpinga Road, the 15.5-hectare site will accommodate 315 homes designed for retirees and those seeking to downsize. Construction is expected to begin early next year.As Australia's ageing population grows, demand for affordable, high-quality housing options for older Australians has soared. OceanView aims to meet this need by offering a resort-style living experience with a focus on community and an active lifestyle. Andy Ward, Director of Goolwa Lifestyle Villages, notes the significant interest the development has already attracted from prospective buyers eager for independent living in a vibrant community setting.OceanView will feature a wide range of recreational and social facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, gym, cinema, and ten-pin bowling lanes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy pickleball courts, a lawn bowling green, and walking and cycling paths that weave through landscaped gardens. The development also includes outdoor shelters and barbecue areas, designed to foster community connections among residents.The resort will operate under a land-lease model, allowing homeowners to lease the land on which their homes are built, offering financial flexibility and eliminating stamp duty and entry fees. This model is increasingly popular among retirees, providing a more accessible pathway to homeownership while enabling residents to enjoy the development’s extensive amenities without the high upfront costs typically associated with property purchases.Homes at OceanView will be available in single- and two-storey designs, with some offering stunning ocean views. The first homes are expected to be completed by late 2025.This project reflects a growing trend in Australia’s housing market, where over-50s lifestyle villages are becoming a favoured choice for retirees looking to balance affordability with community-oriented living.For more information on OceanView Lifestyle Resort, visit their website or contact Goolwa Lifestyle Villages.

The future of the McLaren Vale & Districts War Memorial Hospital site is up in the air following a decision in the Supreme Court.The 21-bed hospital closed on 30 June 2023 after its board determined it was not financially viable to keep it open.It proposed a merger with the James Brown Memorial Trust, which operates not-for-profit aged care provider Kalyra.A group of McLaren Vale residents has been campaigning against the merger, objecting to ‘handing over’ a community asset.This culminated in legal action against the board, led by Henry Davis, which has delayed the merger.Kalyra had committed to maintaining all the services operating from the hospital site, except for the hospital itself.A special general meeting of hospital members held in May 2023 fell just short of the 75 per cent vote required to approve the merger. At that stage there were 65 hospital members.The board had signalled its intention to resign should the membership vote against the proposed merger, but instead called a further special general meeting for 4 July 2023. This triggered a membership drive, which led to endorsement of the board’s decision to close the hospital and transfer the assets to James Brown Trust. On Monday 14 October the Supreme Court ruled in favour of Mr Henry Davis, Justice Bochner describing the conduct of the board between May and July 2023 as oppressive and unreasonable.The Annual General Meeting of members of McLaren Vale & Districts War Memorial Hospital Incorporated will be held at Tatachilla Lutheran College on Wednesday 30 October.There are currently around 700 hospital members.Board chair Chris Overland has told ABC radio that he will step down from the position, following the Supreme Court decision. In a letter to members Mr Overland says the matter will return to Court on 6 November to deliver its orders. "The Board is taking advice on the decision and considering its implications."Two new board members will be elected at the AGM; Henry Davis has nominated to join the board. The full judgement can be read online.

The McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association has unveiled the finalists for the 2024 Business & Tourism Awards, recognising excellence across a diverse range of industries. From hospitality and tourism to health and retail, these awards showcase the dedication and innovation driving the local economy. Winners will be announced at the gala on Friday 1 November at McLaren Vale Motel and Apartments.This year’s finalists include:Employee of the Year: Jo Rescke, Joel Mergler, Philip Tume.Environment: Southern Koala & Echidna Rescue (SKER), Peats Soil, She Sews.Health & Wellbeing: Dance Xtreme, Donna Adams Consulting, The Meeting Place.Home-Based Business: She Sews, Fleurieu App, Heidi Who Photography.Hospitality: Kicco, Ekhidna Kitchen, Bees Knees Catering.New Business: Vale 194, Hey Juj, Evolving Pathways.Professional & Business Services: Finesse Advisory, Eckermann Group, Deb Lilley Celebrant.Retail: McLaren Vale Gardening Centre, Country Life Fashion, The Bloke Shop.Tourism & Experiences: Great Southern Runs, Adelaide Biplanes, Willunga Farmers Market.Trades: McLaren Flat Mechanical, Main Street Barber, Sign Boys.In a particularly exciting category for the Home-Based Business, the Fleurieu App is once again a finalist, continuing a strong tradition since its launch in 2019. Having won the award in 2022, Fleurieu App’s owner and creator Susie Williams has expressed her excitement about being a finalist once more.“I love connecting our community and supporting local businesses, so it’s truly an honour to be recognised for this,” she says. "The Fleurieu App has always aimed to highlight and promote local talent and businesses, and to be acknowledged in this way means so much to me and our small team."The gala promises to be a night of celebration for the local business community, with sponsors, dignitaries, and committee members all gathering to honour the outstanding achievements of McLaren Vale businesses. The association encourages the community to come together and support the finalists, who are leading the charge in making McLaren Vale a vibrant and thriving destination for both business and leisure.For more information about the finalists and the upcoming awards gala, visit the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association website.

An investigation into a crash at Goolwa last month has found that no other vehicles were involved.About 12.15pm on Tuesday 17 September, emergency services were called to Hutchinson Street near the railway crossing after reports that a man in a mobility gopher had been involved in a collision.Witnesses reported seeing a dark-coloured station wagon nearby.An 88-year-old Goolwa man sustained non-life threatening injuries after falling from his gopher. He was taken to hospital for treatment.Further investigation found that there were no other vehicles involved and the gopher didn't collide with any cars.

Two drivers were lucky to escape serious injury after a crash at Hindmarsh Valley this morning.Emergency services responded to the two-car head-on crash on Victor Harbor Road, Hindmarsh Valley just before 7am on Wednesday 16 October.As a result of the collision, a Toyota Landcruiser went over a barrier and rolled down an embankment onto its roof and the engine of the Holden Cruze was ripped from the vehicle.Both drivers, a 25-year-old Hayborough man and a 28-year-old Mitchell Park man, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to hospital by ambulance.The Holden was towed from the scene and the Toyota needed to be recovered by crane.Investigations into the crash are ongoing.Anyone who witnessed this incident or has dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

The countdown is on for the 2025 South Australian Wooden Boat Festival, which returns to the historic Goolwa Wharf over the weekend of 26 and 27 April next year.This biennial event celebrates South Australia's rich maritime heritage, with boatenthusiasts, locals, and visitors enjoying a spectacular display of wooden boats, live music, local food and wine, family entertainment, and cultural experiences.At the helm, 2025 festival Chairman Mark Harvey is steering the new SA Wooden Boat Festival Committee. Working closely with the Alexandrina Council, the committee has launched the Festival website, which has all event updates, including boat registrations, event programs and merchandise.South Australian Tourism Commission is a  major partner of the festival and has awarded funding through its Regional Event Fund for the 2025 and 2027 festivals.“The SATC funding helps us celebrate not only our maritime history but also the transformation of Goolwa's Wharf Precinct, which has undergone significant restoration to the heritage-listed Goolwa Wharf and Wharf Shed and upgrades to the Signal Point Experience Centre and surrounding area,” says Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes.“It ensures the sustainability of an event that has become a cornerstone of our community and draws attention to Goolwa's unique maritime heritage.”The 2023 festival drew 12,000 visitors and generated an estimated $2.8 million in economic benefits for the region, earning the event a finalist position in the 2023 National Economic Development Awards.Boat enthusiasts are encouraged to register early, with boat registrations now open. The 2025 festival is expected to feature more than 100 wooden boats, new and old; under sail, steam, motor, or paddle, providing visitors with the rare opportunity to explore these beautiful vessels and engage with their owners.A festival highlight will be the heritage paddle steamers, including the PS Oscar W and the PS Marion. These historic vessels will be moored at the wharf, offering scheduled cruises throughout the festival weekend.For more information, all the latest updates and boat registration, visit the festival website.

This week (October 14 - 20) marks the annual Aussie Bird Count, a national event that calls on Australians to spend time outdoors and count the birds in their local area. Organised by BirdLife Australia, this citizen science project is essential for tracking the health of native bird populations. By simply taking 20 minutes to observe and report the birds you see, you can play a part in building a crucial database that helps conservationists monitor changes in bird populations and biodiversity across the country.Why is Bird Count Week important? It’s a great way to connect with nature while contributing to important scientific research. Bird populations are excellent indicators of environmental health, and through consistent monitoring, experts can track the rise or decline of specific species. This information is crucial in understanding the impact of habitat loss, climate change, and urbanization on Australia’s diverse birdlife. Over the years, data from the Aussie Bird Count has been used to inform policy and conservation efforts aimed at protecting bird habitats and preserving the ecological balance.Getting involved is easy! Whether you're in a rural setting or an urban area, all you need is 20 minutes and a keen eye. The official Aussie Bird Count app allows you to easily identify and log your sightings. The app has a field guide to help with bird identification, so even if you’re a beginner, you can take part with confidence. Alternatively, you can log your results directly through the Aussie Bird Count website. Every sighting counts, whether it’s a common magpie or a more elusive species, and you’ll be contributing to a broader picture of Australia’s birdlife.Beyond the science, Bird Count Week is also a fantastic way to reconnect with nature. It encourages families, schools, and community groups to head outdoors and appreciate the beauty of local wildlife. For bird lovers, it’s a chance to sharpen their identification skills, while for those new to birdwatching, it offers an easy entry point into a fulfilling hobby.To participate, simply head outside for 20 minutes, observe the birds around you, and submit your sightings through the app or website. You can even do it from your backyard, local park, or while you’re out on a walk. BirdLife Australia encourages people from all over the country to join in, whether they’re in cities, towns, or remote rural areas—every contribution helps build a nationwide snapshot of bird populations.So why not take part in Bird Count Week? Not only will you be helping to protect Australia’s beautiful bird species, but you’ll also enjoy the simple pleasure of spending time outdoors, engaging with nature, and maybe even discovering a new hobby. For more information and to get started, visit BirdLife Australia's official Aussie Bird Count page.

A year has passed since Australians voted No in the national referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament and Kangaroo Island Council has marked the occasion by dropping its Acknowledgement of Country.At its 8 October meeting the council officially rescinded the motion that initiated the acknowledgement at the meeting of 6 December 2022.The rescinded motion was - That the following Acknowledgement of Country be read with dignity at the start of each Ordinary meeting of the Kangaroo Island Council: This Council acknowledges the deep spiritual significance of Kangaroo Island to many Indigenous Australian nations. We also acknowledge the care and custodianship of this land by Indigenous Australians over many thousands of years, and pay respect to their cultures, and their elders past and present.The acknowledgement was replaced with a new statement:That Council acknowledge and recognises spiritual significance of our Island to Indigenous Australians and all peoples who have come before us to settle on our Island. Whose toil and efforts down through the years have made it our Island home that it is today.Mayor Michael Pengilly says, “The Council, by majority, wanted to pass a statement that recognises all those who have settled on Kangaroo Island over the millennia and acknowledges their contributions that have shaped our home.”Minutes of Kangaroo Island council meetings can be found online.  

Advisor ContributionWith just over a month until the US elections are held, we have been having many conversations with clients around how this may impact our economy, their portfolios and whether or not the outcome may lead us down different pathways here in Australia.The outcome of U.S. elections can have a big impact on the Australian economy because of the strong ties between global trade, investment, and financial markets. Here are the main ways U.S. policies can influence Australia:Trade PoliciesThe U.S. is a key trading partner for Australia, especially in sectors like agriculture, resources, and services. If U.S. trade policies change—such as introducing new tariffs or renegotiating trade agreements—it could affect Australia’s ability to sell goods to the U.S. or other countries.Global Economic StabilityThe U.S. is central to global economic stability. Changes in U.S. policies, like adjusting interest rates or altering fiscal strategies, can create uncertainty in global markets, which in turn can affect Australia’s economic performance.Commodity PricesAustralia is a major exporter of commodities like iron ore, coal, and natural gas. U.S. policies that influence global economic growth—especially in China, Australia’s largest trading partner—can impact the demand for these exports. For example, if the U.S. focuses on reducing fossil fuel use, it could lower global demand for coal and gas, affecting Australian industries.Currency MovementsThe U.S. dollar’s value has a direct effect on the Australian dollar (AUD). U.S. election outcomes that lead to changes in monetary policy, like interest rate hikes, can either strengthen or weaken the U.S. dollar. This shift affects the AUD, influencing the cost of Australian exports and imports.Investment FlowsU.S. elections can change investor confidence. If election results create uncertainty, global investors may seek safer options like U.S. Treasury bonds, which could lead to less investment in Australia. On the other hand, if the election leads to stable and pro-business policies, Australia may attract more foreign investment.Climate and Energy PolicyAustralia’s energy sector, particularly coal and gas, could be impacted by U.S. climate and energy policies. If the U.S. pushes for renewable energy, it may reduce global demand for fossil fuels, affecting Australia’s exports. However, if the U.S. continues to support traditional energy, Australia’s fossil fuel sectors could benefit.Defence and SecurityAustralia’s defence strategy is closely tied to its alliance with the U.S. Changes in U.S. military policy could influence Australia’s own defence spending and regional security strategies.In short, U.S. election outcomes can affect Australia through trade, investment, currency movements, and global economic stability. Given the strong connections between the two countries, any major policy shifts in the U.S. are likely to impact Australia’s economy, both directly and indirectlyTony CattDIRECTOR - Catapult WealthWith over two decades of experience in the finance industry, Tony has seen many changes in the markets. Tony has a background in accounting, research, stockbroking and financial planning which allows him to provide a broad range of advice to his clients on different stages of their life. Tony has significant experience in lecturing and seminars, providing help to Regional Skill Training (RST), the Australian Shareholders Association (ASA), regional TAFE and the ASX investor hours for over a decade.After marrying into a farming family, Tony decided to provide more help to family businesses in South Australia. Succession planning, retirement planning, education of the next generation and protection of wealth are major issues that have been identified.Tony is ideally skilled to help families and as a specialist Self-Managed Super Fund adviser, Tony has the ability to transition clients into retirement with cost effective, tailored retirement solutions.Keep it simple is our main approach and we ensure that you understand every facet of how your money is invested.QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:Bachelor of Commerce (Adelaide University)Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance (Kaplan)Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (Kaplan)Fellow of FINSIAContact UsP: (08) 8172 9111F: (08) 8333 1932E: [email protected] Vale233 Main RoadMcLaren Vale SA 5171

The Strathalbyn Racing Club is preparing for a fantastic day of racing, camaraderie, and charity with its Pink Ribbon Ladies Day, set for Wednesday 23 October. Gates will open at 12noon, inviting guests to enjoy a lively day out while raising funds for the Cancer Council to support breast cancer research and awareness.This year’s event offers an exciting combination of thoroughbred racing, social networking, and fundraising, with all attendees encouraged to wear pink or a fabulous hat in support of breast cancer awareness. A prize will be awarded for the best hat, adding some friendly competition to the day’s festivities.The Cancer Council plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families affected by cancer, funding critical research into prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. It also provides support services, including counseling, information resources, and community programs. By attending Pink Ribbon Ladies Day, you’ll be contributing to these life-saving initiatives and helping the Cancer Council continue its mission to reduce the impact of cancer in our communities.Whether you’re looking to bring your team for a day of bonding, treat clients, or simply enjoy a day at the track, Pink Ribbon Ladies Day promises a memorable outing filled with fun, food, and philanthropy.With spots expected to sell out quickly, be sure to secure a place by contacting the Strathalbyn Racing Club on 8536 2248 or visiting the website.

Police are seeking the assistance of the public to identify this man (pictured) on Friday 11 October at Strathalbyn.Police believe he may be able to assist with an investigation.Anyone who recognises this man or has information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.Please quote 24-180M.

October signals the start of the local cruise season, with the Diamond Princess already visiting Kangaroo Island and other South Australian ports.It was the first of 119 cruise and expedition ship visits scheduled for the state, including two for Victor Harbor.Kangaroo Island will again be a busy and popular cruise destination, with five visits scheduled for November, 12 for December and three in each of February, March and April.Delivering economic benefits across the state’s tourism regions, passengers will take part in onshore tours and experiences across Adelaide, Barossa, Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley and Fleurieu Peninsula.The season is set to continue until June 2025, bringing an estimated more than 241,000 passengers and crew to South Australian shores.It will see the return of expedition cruise ships to Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula for the first time in nearly 15 years, with Ponant Cruises visiting in December and Coral Expeditions in February.Luxury vessel Le Jacques Cartier will anchor off Victor Harbor on Wednesday 18 December, bringing 184 passengers and 112 crew on a 14-day journey along Australia’s southern coastline.Coral Adventurer will visit on Monday 3 February 2025, carrying 120 passengers and 48 crew on a 15-night voyage.City of Victor Harbor Mayor Moira Jenkins is thrilled that Victor Harbor has been recognised as an attractive destination for the cruising tours.“The arrival of the cruise ships is a strong signifier of just how attractive our coastal city is to both national and international visitors.”The state government says latest data shows the 2022-23 season injected a record $215 million into South Australia’s economy and supported 704 jobs.Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison says more than 20 ships will make their first visits to South Australia this season.“We continue to work to ensure South Australia is included in the itineraries of a wide range of global cruise lines. Opportunities, such as being the host city for the Australian Cruise Association Annual Conference last month, was invaluable in further promoting our state as a must-visit destination to leading cruise industry representatives.“While I acknowledge there are some challenges ahead for cruise as a sector nationally, our focus remains on growing the number and range of cruise lines and ships bringing in visitors to South Australia.“I look forward to seeing passengers and crew discover the beauty of South Australia’s destination and people, as the season helps to inject important dollars into our visitor economy through to mid-2025.”

Words: Laura Dare. Courtesy Coast Lines MagazineAs October ushers in Breast Cancer Awareness Month, communities across the Fleurieu Peninsula are uniting to shine a spotlight on a disease that touches countless lives. For Dee Elferink, a local breast cancer survivor, this month holds special significance. Her journey from diagnosis to the hope of recovery exemplifies both the challenges faced by those battling breast cancer and the power of community support in overcoming adversity.Dee's cancer journey began in early 2022 when she discovered a lump on her right breast. "After ignoring it for a few weeks, I finally went for a mammogram and was diagnosed with breast cancer," she says. This scenario is all too common, with one in seven Australian women facing a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting Australian women, with an average of 58 people receiving this life-altering diagnosis every day. While survival rates have improved dramatically over the years – from 75 per cent in the late 1980s to 94 per cent in recent years – there's still work to be done to reach zero deaths from breast cancer.Dee's initial treatment involved surgery and radiation, but her battle wasn't over. "In early 2023, they found two very large, aggressive tumours in my left breast," she says. "This time it was surgery, chemotherapy for seven or eight months, and then radiation treatment." The gruelling process took its toll, but Dee found an unexpected lifeline in the Victor Dragons dragon boat club."I immediately fell in love," Dee recalls of her first encounter with the Victor Dragons. "I'm not actually quite sure whether I fell in love with dragon boating as much as I fell in love with everybody in the boat." This tight-knit group became Dee's lifeline during her battle with cancer, offering unwavering support that went far beyond the water's edge.The Victor Dragons, open to all regardless of age, gender or health status, embody the spirit of the Fleurieu community. Their inclusivity and camaraderie highlight how local groups can play a pivotal role in supporting those facing health crises like breast cancer. As Dee puts it, "They embrace you. I love them absolutely. Love them to death."Dragon boating, a sport with roots in ancient China, has become increasingly popular among women with breast cancer worldwide. Research has shown dragon boating is the perfect way to increase physical well-being among women battling cancer or on their way to recovery. Unlike many other sports, dragon boating is non-weight bearing and the paddling requires repetitive upper body motion, so women can regain strength in areas affected by cancer.For Dee, the Victor Dragons offered more than just physical benefits. The club became a source of unwavering support during her second bout with cancer. "They were so, so supportive," Dee says. "Everybody just checking in – they all knew that I had chemotherapy every Thursday. I would just get messages on Wednesday night, Thursday, Thursday nights and then Friday.""One of the ladies makes quilts, and she made me a special quilt for me to take every time I had chemo," Dee says. "It was her way of letting me know she was thinking of me." These acts of kindness and support were instrumental in keeping up Dee’s spirits during the toughest times. The good news is Dee’s latest scans came back cancer-free, but it’s still too soon to declare her out of the woods yet. In the meantime, she’s got the Victor Dragons to help her through.The impact of breast cancer extends far beyond the individual, affecting families and entire communities. Dee's experience highlights the importance of a strong support system. "I basically would be vomiting at seven or eight in the morning and having a pop pill to stop the vomiting, to go to work and be there by nine," she recalls of her chemotherapy days. Juggling work and two teenage daughters with cancer treatment was “really tough,” she says.Dee's story also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being proactive about breast health. "Women do need to listen to their bodies," she says. "They do need to pick up on those signals, and they need to go and have mammograms." Regular mammograms remain the most effective tool for catching breast cancer in its early stages when treatment is most successful. Mammograms are free for all Australian women aged 40 and over.As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues throughout October, there are numerous ways for the Fleurieu community to get involved and make a difference. Hosting a Pink Ribbon breakfast, morning tea, lunch or BBQ can raise vital funds for breast cancer research. For those seeking a more active approach, participating in, or organising, a fitness challenge can also raise awareness and funding.For more information about how you can host a pink ribbon breakfast or participate in an activity as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation website at nbcf.org.au

A pop-up Red Cross Blood Donation Centre will be at the Victor Harbor Lutheran Church from 22 October to 25 October.The organisation says one in three people on the south coast are likely to need blood at some stage and they need locals to give it.Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is calling for 100,000 people to become blood and plasma donors, launching a campaign asking people to find their reason to give. Just over 560,000 active donors currently maintain the blood and plasma supply for the Australian population of 27 million, but new donors are crucial to continue to meet the growing nation’s needs.  Demand for blood has increased by 10 percent in the last four years, and demand for plasma in Australia and worldwide, is at an all-time high. The campaign highlights the many personal and life-saving reasons people choose to donate, from supporting a family member, to enjoying some quiet time and a milkshake. Lifeblood’s Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone says a new blood donor is needed every four minutes in Australia and the challenge is to get 100,000 new donors to have a reason to come through our doors in the next 12 months to prevent a donor shortage. “We’re so grateful to our wonderful regular donors who give their time so freely and who are responsible for the bulk of our collections, but we know with our ageing population and advances in treatment options they can’t do it alone,” she says. “We estimate just three per cent of the eligible population in Australia currently donates, and that tells us there are a lot of reasons why people don’t donate. We’re asking people to find just one reason why they should.” Donation times can be pre-booked online, on the Red Cross Lifeblood app or by calling 13 14 95.. 

This week, RSPCA South Australia introduces two wonderful pets who are looking for their forever homes at the O’Halloran Hill animal care campus.Kubo: The Sweet and Loyal CompanionMeet Kubo, with animal ID 191122, a two-year-old dog who’s currently residing at the RSPCA South Australia’s animal care campus while she waits for her forever family. Kubo is a gentle soul with a sweet personality and a huge heart, making her the perfect companion for a loving home. She enjoys soaking up the sun and also loves snuggling up with her favorite people for some quiet time. If you’re looking for a great listener, Kubo’s your girl!Although Kubo can be a bit shy around new faces, once she builds trust and forms a bond, her playful and cheeky side will come to life. She’s sociable with some dogs but would prefer to be the only pet in her forever home. If you’re not quite ready to adopt, Kubo is also available for foster care. To learn more about Kubo or to meet her, visit her profile here.Jude: The Foodie and Playful FelineJude, with animal ID 190121, is a one-year-old cat who is ready to be your loyal feline friend. This handsome boy has an endearing personality, and his love for food is the key to winning his heart! Like many cool cats, Jude may take a little time to fully open up, but with patience and care, you’ll discover his true personality—and it’s definitely worth the wait.Once Jude establishes a bond with you, he’ll become a playful and loyal companion, often chasing toys and showing off his cheeky side. Jude would thrive in a calm and quiet home where he can feel safe and free to be himself. He’s open to living with other pets, but a slow introduction is key to ensure a smooth transition. You can meet Jude at the O’Halloran Hill animal care campus. For more information about Jude, visit his profile here.If you’re interested in adopting or fostering Kubo or Jude, be sure to visit RSPCA South Australia’s animal care campus at O’Halloran Hill.

Police are seeking the assistance of the public to help locate missing person, Tennille.Tennille, 16, was last seen at Morphett Vale about 6pm on 4 October.  Police are concerned for her welfare.Tennille is 156cm tall, slim build, with long brown hair and dark brown eyes.  She was last seen wearing a purple jumper, long grey top, black leggings and white sneakers.Anyone who spots Tennille or has information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the police assistance line immediately on 131 444.Reference #255897

Citizen Scientists from across the Eastern Hills and Alexandrina Plains are gearing up to get their feet wet and hands dirty for the spring round of Waterbug Bioblitzes.Two separate events in both the Angas-Finniss and Bremer catchments will see pools at over 25 sites tested for water quality and macroinvertebrate (waterbug) activity.“A Waterbug Bioblitz is a one-day event where community groups and individuals join our staff and aquatic ecologists to collect as much information as possible about the waterbugs and water quality of a catchment,” says Dana Miles, Senior Stewardship Officer, Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu.“We’re really pleased to be working with Second Nature Conservancy to host these two family-friendly events, on both Peramangk and Ngarrindjeri Country.“The help of the volunteers makes the events efficient and exciting. The findings contribute to a better understanding about the health of the waterway and catchment and help inform decision making around water planning. Plus, you never know what we might find!“Last year we found the bizarre Gordian (horsehair) worm near Strathalbyn, and the year before that, we found a native fish called the obscure galaxias, which was looking very healthy and put back into the Finniss River. “We also found a species called the vulture caddis, which was the first record in the Angas-Finniss in over 15 years, so a very rare find!“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. “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.”The Bremer Waterbug Bioblitz will be held on Friday 8 November, starting at Wistow Community Hall.The Angas-Finniss Waterbug Bioblitz will be held on Friday 15 November, starting at Strathalbyn Natural Resource Centre. Volunteers can register online. 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 South Australian Government’s Citizen Science Grants program.

Waverley Park Homestead, a heritage gem nestled in Willunga, will host a three-day silent auction from 1-3 November to support the Waverley Park Art Program and Willunga Heritage Art Fund. Local residents are invited to donate framed original artworks for auction, with all proceeds benefiting these local initiatives.The auction will feature a variety of artworks with low starting bids and minimal reserves, creating an opportunity for the community to acquire unique pieces while contributing to the preservation of local heritage.Located near the Willunga Golf Course and surrounded by tranquil scenery, Waverley Park Homestead is steeped in history, dating back to the 1840s. This event allows participants to not only support local art but also to experience the beauty of one of the region’s most iconic heritage sites.Donations will be accepted until 27 October, and the event promises a vibrant display of creativity. Viewing and bidding will be open across the three days, culminating in the final sale on Sunday 3 November at 4pm.For those interested in donating or attending, contact Mark via email. Key Details:Event Dates: 1-3 November Location: Waverley Park HomesteadProceeds Support: Waverley Park Art Program and Willunga Heritage Art FundDonation Deadline: 27 October This auction offers a perfect blend of art, history, and community spirit.

Nominations are open for Citizen of the Year Awards in the Alexandrina Council, City of Onkaparinga and City of Victor Harbor council areas.The Citizen of the Year Awards are presented by the Australia Day Council of South Australia and are administered by local councils across the state.It is an opportunity for residents to nominate individuals or groups who have made a real difference in their community.Nomination categories vary slightly across districts, but in 2025 they include:Citizen of the YearYoung Citizen of the YearCommunity Event of the YearAward for Active CitizenshipIndividuals and groups can be nominated for their contribution and community service to a range of areas such as education, health, fundraising, charitable and voluntary services,business, sports, arts, the environment or any other area that contributes to the advancement and wellbeing of their community.Award recipients in local government areas can be submitted for inclusion in the state-level Citizen of the Year Awards.“Every year, I look forward to presenting the Australia Day Citizen of the Year Awards to celebrate and honour the special people in our communities,” Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes says.“These awards are an opportunity to recognise the valuable efforts of individuals and groups that can sometimes go unnoticed. Without them, our communities wouldn’t be what they are today.“I encourage you to nominate someone who you think should be rewarded for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the Alexandrina communities.”Alexandrina Council recipient awards will be presented at the annual Australia Day ceremonies hosted in Strathalbyn and Goolwa on 26 January 2025.Nomination forms for Alexandrina are available at the Goolwa and Strathalbyn Offices and online. City of Onkaparinga offers extra awards in the categories of Little Hero of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year.Nomination forms for all awards can be found online and submitted via email or in person at any City of Onkaparinga council office or library building. Go to the website for more information.Visit the City of Victor Harbor website for local award nomination information. Award  nominations in the District Council of Yankalilla and Kangaroo Island will open shortly.Award criteria information and online nomination forms are also available on the Australia Day Council of South Australia website.