District Council of Yankalilla is reviewing its current rating structure and has developed a proposal that rebalances how rates are distributed across different property types.The council says its review is not about increasing overall revenue but about determining whether the current rating structure still reflects community expectations, is fair and supports long-term financial sustainability. It will consider:Rating distribution and trends in property value across the District.Land use and ownership patterns.Capacity to pay across different property types.The District’s socio-economic diversity, business diversity and community values.The council is asking the community to take some time to become familiar with the rating system – learn how it works and how rates are calculated. There will then be an opportunity to provide direct feedback to councillors before they decide on any changes.Anyone interested in finding out more and register for project updates can visit the council website and read the consultation paper. There will also be an information drop-In session at the Yankalilla Library on Wednesday 17 December, from 3pm to 6.30pm.

Police are investigating a suspicious fire at Seaford and are asking members of the public for assistance.About 9.15am Friday 28 November, police and fire crews responded to reports of a waste compactor fire outside Seaford Shopping Centre. Clothing inside the centre was damaged by smoke and the compactor was subsequently destroyed.Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the fire and ask anyone in the vicinity of the shops on Friday morning, who may have witnessed any suspicious behaviour, to come forward.If you have any CCTV or dashcam footage of the centre’s car park from 8.30am to 9.30am, please contact Crime Stoppers online www.crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000 – you can remain anonymous.306918

State Traffic Enforcement Officers have today seized two bikes being illegally ridden in Seaford.At 3.30pm on Monday 1 December police spoke with the riders of a modified mountain bike and an electric pit bike on Grand Boulevard Seaford.The bikes which should not be ridden on a road were seized and the rider of the mountain bike, 14- year-old boy from O’Sullivan Beach and the rider of the pit bike a 17-year -old boy from Port Noarlunga South have been reported for ride unlicenced, unregistered, uninsured and fail to wear a motorcycle helmet.Both bikes were impounded and towed from the scene.310007 /309994

Kangaroo Island Council has launched its 2025 Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal in partnership with the Kangaroo Island Community Centre (Junction). This annual initiative invites the community to donate gifts that will bring joy to local families who may be doing it tough this Christmas.For more than twenty years, the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal has been a source of hope and kindness for many Kangaroo Island families. Mayor Michael Pengilly says the generosity shown by Islanders each year reflects the strong community spirit that defines the Island.“Every Christmas, our community rallies together to support one another. It is always touching to see how people come forward to help make the festive season brighter for families who may be facing challenges,” he says. “Whether you choose a toy, a book, a gift voucher or something practical for an older child, every donation makes a difference.”Chief Executive Officer Daryl Buckingham encourages residents to take part and help share the joy of the season.“The Mayor’s Christmas Tree Appeal is an opportunity for all of us to contribute to a brighter Christmas for local families,” he says. “No matter the size of the gift, each donation helps create a stronger and more caring community. We invite everyone to get involved.”Gift donations can be delivered to the Council Office at 43 Dauncey Street in Kingscote, or to the Penneshaw Business Centre, until 5pm on Wednesday 17 December. Donors are asked to label gifts with the intended age and gender, from babies through to young people aged eighteen. Tags can be collected from the Kingscote Office.To ensure gifts are safe and suitable for distribution, preloved toys and food items cannot be accepted.Suggested gift ideas include:Toys and gamesClothing and accessoriesBooksSporting itemsBeauty productsGift vouchersAll donated gifts will be collected at Kangaroo Island Community Centre for distribution to families before Christmas.The community is invited to join the appeal and help share the goodwill and spirit of Christmas across the Island.

South Australians are encouraged to vote in the Global Great Wine Capitals Best Of Wine Tourism People’s Choice Award, with two McLaren Vale businesses in the running to be crowned the world’s favourite.South Australian winners in the prestigious 2026 Best Of Wine Tourism Awards announced at the SA Wine Industry Dinner in September are now eligible for the People’s Choice Award.The awards celebrate innovation and excellence in wine tourism across the world’s greatest wine regions.The South Australian wine tourism businesses in the running are:Mount Lofty House and Estate, Adelaide Hills - South Australian Winner, Accommodation.Vinteloper, Adelaide Hills - South Australian Winner, Architecture and Landscape.Wonderground Barossa, Barossa - South Australian Winner, Art and Culture.Maxwell Wines, McLaren Vale - Global Winner, Culinary Experiences.Bottle Shock, Gumeracha - South Australian Winner, Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences; Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices.SA eBikes, McLaren Vale – South Australian Winner, Wine Tourism Services. Maxwell Wines received international recognition earlier this month, when it was named a Global Winner in the prestigious 2026 awards night in France during the Great Wine Capitals (GWC) Gala Dinner. The top international honour celebrates their exceptional food and wine offerings and their elevated cellar door experience.Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison says the diversity and innovation represented amongst South Australia’s Best Of Wine Tourism finalists highlight why it is one of only 12 Global Great Wine Capitals.“From established to up and coming wine tourism offerings, these experiences cement our global reputation as a leader of good food and wine and give visitors a reason to stay longer and explore more of South Australia.“Congratulations and good luck to all the nominees – South Australia, it’s time to cast your vote!”The awards are an initiative of the GWC Global Network, an exclusive group of 11 internationally renowned wine regions. Member regions include Adelaide (South Australia), Bordeaux (France), Bilbao–Rioja (Spain), Hawke’s Bay (New Zealand), Lausanne (Switzerland), Mainz–Rheinhessen (Germany), Mendoza (Argentina), Porto (Portugal), San Francisco–Napa Valley (USA), Valparaíso–Casablanca Valley (Chile), and Verona (Italy).Membership of the network is a partnership between the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), the South Australian Tourism Commission, the South Australian Wine Industry Association, and the University of Adelaide.Voting for the People’s Choice Award closes on 8 December 2025. For more information visit the website. 

The Victor Harbor Visitor Centre is compiling a map of Christmas lights across the area.It will provide a guide for light-seers and share the magic of festive decorations with families around the town.Anyone putting on a Christmas display who would like to be included on the map can submit the address and be added to the list.They should write a short description of the festive light feature and send to the Visitor Centre, along with a few photos, via email.The maps will be both printed and digital and be made available to people to take delight in the seasonal show.

Alexandrina Council’s Wellness in Nature project will offer a free Sunset Kayak Experience for people interested in active and healthy ageing on Friday 5 December.It is a chance to unwind, connect and enjoy natural beauty on the water in the early evening at Bristow Smith Reserve, in Goolwa.This initiative supports community wellbeing by increasing opportunities to engage with nature through accessible, low-impact activities across the Alexandrina region.Participants will take to the water in beginner-friendly sit-on-top kayaks, guided by qualified Reclink Australia facilitators. The session is designed to be calm, social, and suitable for people looking to stay active, meet others and try something new in a supportive environment.This program is funded through the Age Friendly SA Grant from the Office for Ageing Well and delivered in partnership with Reclink. Bookings are essential online.

A Reynella man has been arrested following an investigation into break-ins in the southern suburbs in the past few months.On Friday 21 November, police located a stolen Volkswagen with stolen plates attached, and containing stolen property at South Plympton.  The vehicle had been reported stolen from a Richmond business at the end of August.  The stolen car was also linked to a several business break-ins in recent months.The stolen VW was forensically examined and further investigation led to the search of a Reynella man’s home on Wednesday 26 November.  It will be alleged that police located further stolen property at the address, however the suspect was not at home.He was located and arrested by police at a Taperoo address later that day.  At Taperoo, Police also found a stolen truck and more stolen property linked to various business break-ins.The 40-year-old Reynella man was charged with serious criminal trespass, theft of a motor vehicle, three counts of illegal interference and eight counts of theft and unlawful possession.Investigations are ongoing.He was bailed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on 21 January.Anyone with information on the whereabouts of stolen property is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au223345

The City of Victor Harbor has assumed management of the historic Victa Cinema from Country Arts SA.The council says this marks the next step in its long-term vision to establish a vibrant Arts and Culture Centre in the town centre.It purchased the art deco building for $1.6 million in 2020, when the previous owners retired, to secure its future as a community-owned cultural landmark. Since then, Country Arts SA has managed day-to-day operations of the cinema on the council’s behalf.Chief Executive Officer Victoria MacKirdy says the transition in management will strengthen the council’s capacity to deliver a cultural precinct that links Victa Cinema, Victor Harbor Town Hall and Coral Street Art Space.“Country Arts SA has played a vital role in stabilising and strengthening the Victa Cinema over the past four years,” she says.“As Council prepares for the next stage of the Arts and Culture Centre project, it makes sense to bring the cinema’s operations in-house so we can fully align our venues, staff and systems.”“Victa Cinema is one of few remaining heritage cinemas still operating in South Australia. This step is part of our long-term strategy to ensure it remains a living part of our community – supporting local jobs, creative partnerships and year-round cultural activity.”The change in management will not impact Victa Cinema’s regular programming or community events. All current staff have been invited to continue employment under the council, ensuring continuity for patrons and a smooth handover.Country Arts SA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Peluso has acknowledged the successful partnership between the two organisations.“We are proud to have worked with the City of Victor Harbor to sustain and grow Victa Cinema over recent years. We look forward to continuing to collaborate through regional programs and arts development initiatives across the Fleurieu.” The Arts and Culture Centre project has been on hold, along with the Mainstreet Precinct Upgrade Stage 5 (Grosvenor Gardens and Coral Street), following public consultation on a proposed design in 2021.

Speaker of the House of Assembly and MP for Mawson Leon Bignell has announced he will retire from politics at the March election. Leon Bignell has served as the Member for Mawson since 2006, an electorate covering the McLaren Vale wine region, the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island. From 2013 to 2018 Me Bignell was Minister for Agriculture, Food, Fisheries, Forests, Tourism, Sport, Recreation and Racing. He was elected Speaker of the House of Assembly in April 2024. Prior to entering Parliament, Mr Bignell worked for two decades as a journalist including stints with the ABC, Channel 7, Channel 10, News Ltd and two years working in Switzerland as a foreign correspondent. Mr Bignell says he loves the people of the local area and every inch of this beautiful part of the world that he calls home.  “From McLaren Vale to the western end of Kangaroo Island we have a series of communities. Some large like Aldinga, some small like Second Valley.  “They all have their own personality. And they're all full of wonderful personalities.  “It's been my absolute pleasure to work hard for each and every one of them during the past 20 years.  “Together we came up with the toughest protection laws in Australia to save the McLaren Vale food and wine region from urban sprawl and gutter to gutter housing.  “That Act of Parliament locks in a billion dollar a year food, wine and tourism sector and has helped support thousands of local jobs and hundreds of small, medium and large businesses.  “Politics is not that complicated. Democracy is about people. So if you put your hand up to serve you have to be out and about with the people you represent.  “To the school students, the sporting clubs and community groups across the electorate thank you for inspiring me, for energising me and for giving me your time.  “To the people of Mawson. Thanks so much for your trust and for backing me in at five successive elections since 2006. I’m still here until March 21. And I’ll be working hard for our area right up to election day.”Premier Peter Malinauskas describes the MP as a phenomenon. “There are few MPs with such a powerful ability to connect with their communities and with people from all walks of life. “This power of connection has made him a highly effective leader. The people of Mawson have always known that Leon would fight for them. That was especially true during the KI bushfires. “As an MP and a Minister, Leon was focused on delivery. He leaves a visible legacy of significant infrastructure, and legislation that protects our precious winegrowing regions from being swamped by suburbs. “As Speaker, he’s served the Parliament well, ensuring fair debate and finding common ground across party lines across the chamber. “I wish Leon well in the next phase of his career."

CFS Advice Message - Avoid SmokeIssued on27 Nov 2025 16:33Warning areaClarendon and Grants Gully Road, 2km west of the Clarendon township.Warning levelAdvice - Avoid SmokeActionSmoke from Clarendon structure fire is in the area of Chalk Hill Road, Grants Gully Road, Angel Gully Road and Clarendon Road area.Smoke can affect your health. You should stay informed and be aware of the health impacts of smoke on yourself and others.Symptoms of exposure includes shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, burning eyes, running nose, chest tightness, chest pain and dizziness or light-headedness.If you or anyone in your care are having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention from your local GP. If your symptoms become severe, call 000.More information will be provided by the CFS when it is available.Click on map to enlargeShapes on this map image indicate the Warning Area to which this message applies - YELLOW: Advice MessageWhat you should doStay indoors as much as possible.Close windows, doors, and air vents (this may only assist with reduced exposure for hours or a few days, as outside air will eventually enter the home).Use appropriate air conditioner settings in the home and vehicles to prevent outside air coming in.Spend time in air-conditioned venues, like cinemas, shopping centres and libraries.Reduce indoor sources of air pollution, such as smoking, cooking with gas, burning candles or vacuum cleaning.Avoid vigorous outdoor activities, especially if you have asthma or other chronic lung or heart conditions.People with existing heart or lung conditions, people over 65 years of age, children 14 years and younger (especially those with asthma), pregnant and breastfeeding people and people with diabetes are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke and should follow the treatment plan advised by their doctor.Stay informedCFS website cfs.sa.gov.auInformation Hotline 1800 362 361For hearing or speech impaired users, phone 1300 555 727 then ask for 1800 362 361For teletype service TTY 133 677 then ask for 1800 362 361CFS on Facebook or XAlert SA Mobile AppOn local ABC radio, FIVEaa, or one of our other Emergency Broadcast PartnersEmergency call 000

The Fleurieu community is invited to the Grosvenor Gardens in Victor Harbor this December for the latest iteration of Coffee with a Cop.Between 10.30am and 12.30pm Monday 1 December, Hills Fleurieu police will host Coffee with a Cop at the rotunda in Grosvenor Gardens.The community will have the opportunity to interact with officers and discuss local topics in a relaxed and informal setting with complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits provided.

A driver suffered serious but non-life threatening injuries after crashing into a tree at Macclesfield overnight.Just after 2am this morning, Thursday 27 November, police and emergency services responded to reports that a truck had collided with a tree on Venables Street, Macclesfield.The driver was initially trapped within the cab but was extricated by CFS crews.SA Ambulance paramedics provided treatment at the scene, and the man was taken to hospital with leg and head injuries.Hills Fleurieu police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dash cam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.305787

Kangaroo Island Council has declared the Kingscote Tidal Pool as a No Fishing Zone following community feedback.The No Fishing Zone applies inside the tidal pool only and fishing into the pool is not allowed, with the council saying this change will help improve safety and enjoyment for all tidal pool users.Fishing is still allowed from the walkway around the tidal pool; from the rock wall; and into the ocean, as these areas are outside the designated No Fishing Zone.This decision was made at the council meeting held on 11 November and the council has thanked everyone who shared their concerns and helped bring the issue forward.

A walk to end digital violence against all women and girls will be held in Goolwa on Friday 28 November.It will start from Junction Goolwa, in Cadell Street, at 4.30pm and will finish with an event at Signal Point a short time later.There, guest speaker Dianne Newton will talk about her decades of work empowering women facing domestic violence.She led the Southern Women Matter campaign to advocate for a women’s trauma recovery hub, The Yellow Gate.The event will feature a welcome to country, food trucks and live music.Walkers are asked to wear something orange to show support.Hosted by Junction Australia and The Goolwa Haven, the event is supported by Cittaslow and is part of 16 Days of Activism.

Strathalbyn District Museum & Heritage Centre has been left counting the cost of a car crashing into its property on Sunday 16 November.The vehicle went through two fences, causing significant damage, and the driver has not been identified.The museum has carried out temporary repairs but will have to replace parts of the two fences and its main sign at an estimated cost of around $3,000-$4,000.Insurance will not cover the cost as the excess is too high and the museum is calling on the community for help.Strathalbyn District Museum & Heritage Centre is housed in the historic Police Station and Courthouse buildings in Rankine Street and is open on weekends from 1.30pm to 4.00pm.Anyone who can contribute labour or a donation should contact the museum via Facebook message or email.  

South Australia’s beach-based sport and active recreation clubs can now access a share of $500,000 in funding to boost programs and services that keep the community active, healthy and safe along the coast this summer. Surf lifesaving, sailing and ocean swimming clubs are encouraged to apply for assistance through the Algal Bloom Support Program (ABSP). Part of the state and federal government’s $102.5 million Algal Bloom Summer Plan, it will assist affected clubs to maintain their programs and events and respond to additional needs that may arise during the summer season. Funding can be spent on essential costs such as medical and first aid supplies, equipment that assists with program delivery, event costs and to help offset temporary expense shortfalls. Additionally, projects that promote wellbeing and inclusion, along with other measures that provide safe, high-quality experiences for their members, participants and community, are supported by ABSP funding.Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Rhiannon Pearce has thanked the workforce and volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to delivering sport and active recreation opportunities across SA beaches. “The South Australian Government is committed to supporting sport and recreation clubs through the algal bloom and this program delivers important funding to assist those clubs that operate on our beaches and on the water. Applications close at midday on Wednesday 17 December. For more information and to apply, visit the website.Also part of the Summer Plan, event organisers in South Australia’s coastal regions can now apply for grants under the new $750,000 Algal Bloom Event Support Fund. The grants will be available for the purposes of marketing and promotion, as well as audience development initiatives, enhanced programming, and costs directly related to event delivery. The Fund will support events held from 1 December 2025 to 31 March 2026 in the same postcodes as the Coast is Calling Travel Voucher and Dining Cashback programs. Grants of up to $20,000 will be made available to existing events in metropolitan and regional coastal areas to stimulate visitation, drive economic recovery, and foster community connection. Events will need to meet the Fund criteria and may include leisure events, council events and community events. The Algal Bloom Event Support Fund will be delivered by the South Australian Tourism Commission. Funding applications will close at 5pm on 1 March 2026 or when funds are exhausted. All applications will be evaluated by an assessment panel against the eligibility criteria.  For more information and to apply from go to the website.   

Two south coast playgrounds are in line for upgrades and Alexandrina Council is calling on young residents and their families to contribute to the designs.The play equipment at Seagull Avenue Reserve in Chiton and Middleton Shores Reserve will each get a total makeover.Concept designs for both play spaces include a mix of play equipment; options for different age groups; and modern designs that offer better play experiences.No-one knows better than the kids that play there and the council wants to hear what they think about the proposed play equipment.Short surveys on My Say Alexandrina will help to decide which equipment is preferred and what else could be added.Consultation closes at 5pm on Friday 12 December. Visit the page for Chiton or Middleton to have a say. Artist's render from concept design.

Police encouraged good times and safe choices at Schoolies 2025, and that is what occurred with no school leavers arrested or reported for any offences, and no weapons detected.South Australia Police (SAPOL) conducted Operation Schoolies to focus on community, road and school leaver safety in the region between Friday 21 and Sunday 23 November 2025.Hills Fleurieu Region police, supported by Dog Operations, Mounted Operations, Traffic Service Branch and Licencing Enforcement Branch worked together with their emergency service partners to deliver a safe event across the Victor Harbor region this weekend.Throughout the festival 111 school leavers were screened by metal detectors and thankfully no weapons were identified.Amongst this school leaver cohort there were 17 expiations, with 12 for drinking in dry zones, two for urinating in a public place and two for possessing liquor in a dry zone.Unfortunately, Police detected two school leavers in possession of illicit drugs. Those school leavers have received drug diversions and police will work with them and their families to best ensure no future offending occurs. One school leaver was found in possession of cannabis and an expiation notice was issued.Every year there are non-school leaver attendees. This year one non-school leaver was reported for breaching a bail curfew.Operation Commander, Superintendent Joanne Howard said she was incredibly pleased with the behaviour of most school leavers.“It is pleasing this year’s school leavers have had a great time, behaved respectfully and returned home safely, ready to start the holidays,” Superintendent Howard said.“We would like to thank the Victor Harbor community for their generous engagement with school leavers and acknowledge Encounter Youth’s Green Team volunteers’ dedication to delivering a safe and great event.”On the roads surrounding Schoolies, police conducted 499 driver screening tests resulting in three positive drink driving offences and zero positives drug tests.One non-school leaver was arrested for disobeying reasonable direction, drink driving and disorderly behaviour. Another non-school leaver was reported for drink driving. Both received an instant loss of licence, and had their vehicles impounded.One school leaver was expiated for drink driving in breach their Provisional Licence conditions.School leavers will now be thinking about their futures. Regardless of what directions they move into, SAPOL encourages everyone to carry the ‘safe choices’ motto into the future.