Former ABC radio evenings presenter, author and self-described social irritant Peter Goers will speak at the Victor Harbor library next Thursday 23 January.Visiting the ‘agapanthus capital of the world,’ he will share an overview of his career to date, unpack his book - In the Air of an Afternoon Almost Past - and host a live Q&A at the special event, Somebody has to be Peter Goers.His career has been long and varied; since 1971 he has worked as actor, director, designer, critic, academic and entertainer on two continents.He began writing for the Advertiser in 1985 and has contributed a weekly opinion column in the Sunday Mail for more than 30 years.In 2013 he was honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to the arts, community and public broadcasting.In his book, Peter recalls his strange and tragic journey full of potent memory, loss, poignant candour, wisdom and family redemption following the death of his parents in a US plane crash. It will be for sale at the free event, which starts at 6pm, for $22.95. Reserve a place online.

A man has been arrested following an investigation into two serious incidents endangering cyclists on a southern suburbs bike path.At 6.20am on Friday 10 January, three male cyclists reported wire had been strung across the bike path near the Poznan Path foot bridge.The riders were travelling south along the bike path when they struck the wire that had been removed from a fence and then tied to a tree across the path.The trio struck the wire while riding at 35km/h and subsequently came off their bicycles. Two suffered minor injuries while the third was uninjured. Their bicycles were severely damaged.At 6.45am on Monday 13 January, a female cyclist riding along the bike path between Honeypot Road and Beach Road struck a fence wire that had been strung across the path and tied to a tree.The woman escaped injury, but extensive damage was caused to her bicycle.As a result of investigations, Southern District police arrested an 18-year-old man from Noarlunga Downs over the incidents.He has been charged with four counts of endangering life and refused police bail. He will appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court today, 17 January.Anyone with any information that may assist with the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.  You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online or free call 1800 333 000.

Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism has announced its inaugural Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star, Nick Nicmanis-Everingham.The awards celebrate the heroes of hospitality – the staff and businesses who ensure visitors to the region feel welcomed, valued, and connected. Nick is a 23-year-old local legend who works at Aqua Blue Restaurant in Normanville. Born and raised in Yankalilla, he has a deep connection to his community and a passion for hospitality.  “For me, this is more than a job. It’s about giving people a place to pause, to feel cared for, and to leave with a smile,” he says.His efforts have earned him the reward of a relaxing stay at Second Valley Lodge and a surfing lesson with Surf and Sun, two experiences donated by local tourism champions. As the business behind the winner, Aqua Blue Restaurant is also in the running for a feature broadcast segment on Hello SA, supported by Adelady.The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Awards program provides an opportunity to showcase a commitment to excellence and set a new standard for visitor experiences. It aims to elevate the Fleurieu Peninsula and ensure visitors leave with indelible memories.The program is supported by Tourism Australia which sees it as a perfect complement to their national We Are the Australian Tourism Industry campaign, celebrating the vital role exceptional tourism service plays in the country's recovery. Kristy Malapa, Tourism Australia’s Industry Relations Manager, says exceptional service is at the heart of every unforgettable tourism experience. “The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Stars program is an inspiring example of innovation and collaboration in action, helping to elevate Australia’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination while revitalising local economies and communities."Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism launched the Service Stars program at a critical time for the region. Visitor spending declined by 30 per cent during the past winter, highlighting the need for initiatives that reinforce the value of exceptional service and the impact it can have on customer sentiment and repeat visitation.“Nick embodies the welcoming hospitality, local knowledge, and authentic passion that make the Fleurieu Peninsula such an extraordinary destination,” says Merrin Ozols, Executive Officer of Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism. “He reminds us that tourism isn’t just about places—it’s about the people who make those places come alive.”To find out more about the program and how to nominate a local service star, visit the Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism website.

Kangaroo Island Council has announced its 2025 Australia Day Awards, to be celebrated on Sunday 26 January in Kingscote.Joint Citizens of the Year are Kerry Brinkley and Dianne Hoffman, both of Kingscote, recognised for their outstanding contributions to Kangaroo Island.Event of the Year is the Western Districts Memorial Community and Sports Centre Opening and Project of the Year is The Drive Alive Road Safety Campaign.The presentations will be made at the Australia Day event at Hope Cottage, the Kingscote Branch of the National Trust of South Australia, starting at 10am.The celebrations  will feature a live performance by the Kingscote Community Band and a special guest will lead the national anthem. Mayor Michael Pengilly will then present the council's annual Community Grants, recognising and supporting local initiatives that strengthen the region. A Citizenship Ceremony will also take place, where three new Australian citizens will be warmly welcomed into the community. Morning tea will follow the ceremony, generously provided by the Kingscote National Trust. 

Shortly after 6pm last night, 15 January, CFS firefighters responded to a structure fire at Goolwa.A total of 40 CFS firefighters with nine trucks worked alongside the Metropolitan Fire Service, SA Police, SA Ambulance Service, and SA Power Networks in a coordinated effort to extinguish the fire in a 30m x 40m shed.Thanks to their quick and effective response, firefighters prevented the fire from spreading, which could have caused much greater damage to the business, its contents, and neighbouring properties.While the shed itself was not destroyed, it did incur smoke damage, and unfortunately, some of the contents, including caravans, were lost. However, thanks to the efforts of both the firefighters and the owners, other items were successfully salvaged, helping to minimise the overall damage.Crews remained on site for some time using thermal imaging cameras to check for hot spots.The damage has been estimated at $1 million, and Fire Investigators have been called to the scene.Local reports indicate the affected property is the Goolwa Craven Centre.

Main South Road is among the worst roads in the state for multiple lives lost, with six fatalities recorded in 2024, according to an RAA report.RAA’s road safety experts have analysed tragic state and national road crash data for 2024, in an attempt to understand why the number of fatalities and serious injuries has increased since the mid-2010s despite vehicle technology improving.In South Australia 91 people lost their lives and 845 were seriously injured in 2024 – a reduction on the horror 2023 that saw 117 people lose their lives and 875 seriously injured.Other 2024 figures analysed by RAA show:70 per cent of fatal crashes occurred in regional SA.47 per cent of people who lost their lives were aged 60+.40 per cent of lives lost were vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists or motorcyclists) – including 56 per cent of metropolitan lives lost.14 roads saw multiple lives lost – the worst being Riddoch Highway (6), Main South Road (6), Eyre Highway (4) and Sturt Highway (4).South Australia was one of only two Australian states to see a reduction in road deaths compared to its five-year average last year, however the 845 serious injuries was the second-highest figure since 2011 (behind only 2023).The number of serious crashes means SA remains off track to reach the targets of its Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan. To be on track for those targets, SA would have needed to record no more than 80 deaths and 638 serious injuries in 2024.RAA Senior Traffic Engineer Matt Vertudaches says across the country, the number of deaths increased for the fourth consecutive year, which is the first time this has occurred since the 1960s.“Every life lost on our roads is an unimaginable tragedy that rips apart a family and community, and serious injuries often have a permanent impact on an individual’s quality of life and become a major strain on loved ones.“That’s why we continue to raise awareness of the heartbreaking impact of road trauma.“While last year saw less people lose their lives on SA roads than the year before, the rate of crashes across the country is alarming and should not be happening when you think about the improvements in vehicle safety that we’ve seen in recent years.“Here in SA, we know older drivers in particular are losing their lives at a concerning rate. The 70-79 year old age group alone saw 18 lives lost – double the five-year average of nine.”Mr Vertudaches urges drivers to take personal responsibility for the way they share the road with others.“All road users must remember the Fatal 5 causes of road trauma – distraction, speeding, driving under the influence, not wearing a seatbelt and dangerous behaviour.“Distraction and general complacency remain a huge impediment to reducing our rate of crashes, as we know taking your attention off the road for just a few seconds can have catastrophic consequences.“We urge drivers to reflect on the responsibility that comes with being in control of a two-tonne vehicle at speed and sharing the road with others – as well as the tragic ripple effect that occurs in our community when someone is killed or seriously injured. “Every life lost is an unimaginable tragedy.”Supporting statisticsSA lives lost and serious injuries: 2015 – 2024YearLives lostSerious injuries2015102759201686692201710062220188057620191148332020937152021998272022717032023117875202491845

Willunga is set to celebrate this year’s Tour Down under with events in the Willunga Town Square, hosted by the local Business and Tourism Association.Saturday 18 January sees Stage 2 of the Women’s race in town from 10am to 3pm, with a sizzling summer barbeque, fresh coffee, fun fair food, live music and market stalls. A fun community event for families and cyclists, the Cheer on Picnic in the Square is all about getting together in the heart of Willunga and cheering on the Women's Stage 2 riders as they tackle their first ever 'Queen of the Hill' challenge in 2025.Local artists will paint, sketch and create during the day, while people relax in the shade and watch the race go by.For those riding their bikes to the event, there will be bike racks on site.The fundraising barbeque will be hosted by ‘Safe Pets, Safe Families’ who work to help pets and support pet owners affected by domestic violence. The following week, on Saturday 25 January, also from 10am to 3pm the Willunga Town Square will be the home of the Men’s Stage 5 Live Site, and the Silver Jubilee Picnic in the Square.With the riders passing right by the square several times during the day, and the big screen broadcasting all the action, it will be the best viewing place in town.This event will support ‘Heart Kids’ with a fundraising sausage sizzle and the Fleurieu Folk Festival will provide live music performances.There will be fresh coffee and drinks, as well as desserts, fun fair food and market stalls featuring local artisans and makers. Water fountains will be on site too for those wanting to refill drink bottles.BYO chairs or picnic rugs for both events. Details of the Queen of the Hill and Live Site events can be found on Tour Down Under website.

Police are asking for the public’s assistance to locate wanted man Matthew Haskell.Matthew Haskell, 41, is wanted for questioning in relation to an aggravated serious criminal trespass and attempted arson at Black Forest on Sunday 12 January and is believed to be in possession of a firearm.Matthew Haskell is Caucasian, 170cm tall, slim build, with a fair complexion and brown hair.He should not be approached.If you see him or know of his whereabouts, please call the Police Assistance line on 131 444 immediately or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

Alexandrina Council has extended the consultation period on the future of the Customs House in Goolwa.Originally due to close on 9 January the new deadline for feedback is 5pm on Friday 14 February.The council is proposing to sell the Customs House - also known as Harbour Masters – for development into hotel accommodation. The property comprises of two parcels of land owned by Alexandrina Council, which was previously the harbourmaster’s residence.The historic building, located at the entrance to the newly redeveloped Goolwa Wharf precinct has formerly been used by various community groups.It is not currently in use and is described by the council as having been in disrepair for many years.Its financial position does not allow the council to develop the site; hence the suggestion it be sold.Full details of the sale proposal and how to give formal feedback can be found on the council website. 

Police are investigating a serious crash at Blewitt Springs this morning.Just after 7.30am on Tuesday 14 January, police were called to the intersection of Blewitt Springs Road and Ronald Road after reports of a crash involving two cars and a cyclist.The cyclist sustained serious injuries in the crash and was conveyed to hospital. Two other people were taken to hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.Blewitt Springs Road is currently closed and Major Crash Investigators will be attending the scene.

Rockstar indoor plant guru Markus Hamence, known as The Botanic Designer, will host a seasonal care workshop at the Victor Harbor library on Saturday 18 January.This free event is for those who need tips on how to keep their plants happy during the hot spells to come.Armed with personality, engagement plus sound plant and styling knowledge, Markus will provide all the advice required to keep plants alive in summer heat.He has gathered his vast knowledge through extensive trial, experimentation and exploration and his own home boasts more than 400 indoor plants.Believing a blend of interior design and indoor plants creates a calming space, Markus encourages people to express their personalities by adding plants to a room.“There is a plant that suits even the blackest of thumbs, it’s all about arming yourself with the knowledge with what to select for a certain individual’s needs depending on their lifestyle and of course their current knowledge of plant care,” he says.His Summer Lovin’ workshop starts at 10.30am and is sponsored by the Friends of the Victor Harbor Library.Find out more about The Botanic designer on his website and book a place in the workshop on the Victor Harbor library events booking page.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) has advised of temporary closures of the Cape Jervis boat ramp, starting from Friday 17 January.The closures area part of the Cape Jervis Port upgrade works and have been publicised via the District Council of Yankalilla.The boat ramp will be closed nightly between 7pm and 6am to allow for safe night works in the harbour from Friday 17 January to mid-March.DIT says daytime closures may also be required in the first half of 2025 to facilitate further works for the new, larger ferries and the ongoing port upgrade.The Cape Jervis boat ramp will reopen to all users for the Australia Day long weekend – 25 to 27 January.During closures, Cape Jervis boat ramp facility users will be able to launch and retrieve vessels from the Wirrina Cove Marina at no cost.For more information about the upgrades or closures, visit the Department for Infrastructure and Transport website.

Cyclists using the bike path along the Southern Expressway at Noarlunga Downs are being urged to exercise caution after two alarming incidents involving wire strung across the path.The first incident occurred at 6:20 am on Friday, January 10, near the Poznan Path footbridge. Three male cyclists traveling south at approximately 35 km/h struck a wire that had been removed from a fence and tied across the path to a tree. All three riders were thrown from their bicycles, leaving two with minor injuries and causing significant damage to their bikes.A second incident followed at 6:45 am on Monday, January 13, when a female cyclist hit a wire similarly strung between Honeypot Road and Beach Road. Thankfully, she escaped injury, though her bicycle sustained extensive damage.Southern District police are investigating both incidents and have urged cyclists to remain vigilant while using bike paths in the area. Authorities are particularly concerned about the deliberate placement of these obstacles, which pose serious risks to the safety of cyclists.Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers. Reports can be made anonymously online at Crime Stoppers SA or by calling 1800 333 000.Stay safe and be alert while riding.

The Power of Her 2025 Recognition Awards have been launched, celebrating South Australians who empower girls and women in sport. These awards are the latest initiative in the state government’s commitment to backing women in sport and will continue the work of helping ensure girls and women can equally and actively participate in the sport they love.The awards will showcase individuals, clubs, associations, and state sport and recreation organisations who are implementing programs and initiatives which empower girls and women to pursue their sporting passions and help to advance gender equality – in sport and everywhere. Nominations are open in the following categories:The Power of Her – Emerging LeaderThe Power of Her – Media ChampionThe Power of Her – Sponsor ChampionThe Power of Her – Champion Local Club – MetropolitanThe Power of Her – Champion Local Club – RegionalThe Power of Her – Outstanding OrganisationThe Power of Her – Champion of ChangeMinister for Recreation, Sport & Racing Katrine Hildyard says sport is a powerful vehicle for change.  “When we equally include girls and women and celebrate their strength, physicality and power, it transforms attitudes about girls and women and the roles they can play in sport and everywhere else. “I am thrilled that we can formally recognise those who are progressing change that is making a difference, those who are going above and beyond in their sport and community to ensure girls and women of all abilities can deepen their participation in their chosen sport and experience the many benefits of being involved. “I look forward to celebrating the efforts of the award nominees and winners.”The awards further add to the legacy of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup when The Power of Her concept was introduced through a remarkably successful ‘Women in Leadership Symposium’ where more than 1,000 attendees came together to advance gender equality. Nominations are now open and will close on Tuesday 11 February, with award winners announced at an International Women’s Day event to be held on Wednesday 12 March.For more information and to submit a nomination, visit the website. 

Around 5pm on Sunday 12 January, approximately 18 CFS firefighters responded to a house fire in Aldinga Beach, with five trucks and one bulk-water carrier. They were supported by SA Police and SA Ambulance Service.On arrival, the firefighters found the garage fully involved in the fast-moving fire. They successfully contained the blaze to the garage and prevented further spread, saving the rest of the house with minimal damage.Thanks to their quick response, the damage was limited to an estimated $50,000—much less than what could have occurred if the firefighters had not arrived when they did.All occupants were able to evacuate the house safely before the firefighters arrived.Volunteer firefighters remained on site to check the roof and crawl spaces, monitor for hot spots, and extinguish any smouldering areas. The cause of the fire is as yetunknown.

Riders and drivers are urged to take care as cyclists gear up for the Tour Down Under (TDU), which starts this Friday 17 January.The race takes place in Adelaide and regional South Australia, including the Fleurieu, from 17-26 January, featuring nine days of elite racing for men and women.RAA says new data reveals serious cyclist crashes have increased by almost a third in the last five years.Between 2020-2024, 24 cyclists tragically lost their lives and another 408 were seriously injured on SA roads – a jump of 29 per cent in serious crashes compared to the five years prior.Crash data from 2019-2023 shows the worst suburbs for cyclist fatal and serious injury crashes were the city (27), Henley Beach (10), Montacute (eight), Glenelg, Belair and Unley (six each).The Tour Down Under is the biggest bike race in the Southern Hemisphere that brings cyclists of all ages and abilities to the state, prompting RAA to remind drivers and riders alike to show respect and patience when sharing the road.RAA is also renewing calls for greater investment in cycling infrastructure via a $10m State Bicycle Fund – to build more dedicated routes, reduce traffic congestion and improve safety.RAA Senior Manager Road Safety Charles Mountain says Greater Adelaide will be on show as a cycling capital ahead of the event.“The Tour Down Under is a world-class cycling event and it means SA roads are set to be busy with bike riders in the coming weeks,” he says.“Cyclists should use bike lanes wherever available, keep to the left and not ride more than two abreast.“Drivers must allow a minimum passing distance of one metre on roads where the speed limit is 60km/h or slower, and at least 1.5 metres when passing cyclists on roads where the speed limit is greater than 60km/h. As part of its recent State Budget submission, RAA has called for the state government to commit $10m per year to a State Bicycle Fund – to improve safety and encourage more cycling as a mode of transport by closing gaps in existing bike infrastructure around Adelaide.RAA’s recent Risky Rides survey of cyclists found that gaps in dedicated bike lanes and paths are the major concern for prospective riders, with 56 per cent saying they do not feel safe to share the road with drivers.Mr Mountain says the RAA survey also found 30 per cent of cyclists have been knocked off their bike by a vehicle and 94 per cent have experienced a close shave.“As a beautiful state for cycling that attracts riders from all over Australia and the world – and as hosts of such a brilliant annual cycling event in the Tour Down Under – we really need to be investing in more safe, protected routes across the city to make it safer for riders of all abilities to get around.According to the National Walking and Cycling Participation Survey 2023, 12.7 per cent of South Australians cycle in a typical week – the second-lowest of any Australian state or territory.The women’s TDU will visit Fleurieu roads on stage 1, Friday 17 January - Brighton to Aldinga and stage 2, Saturday 18 January - Unley to Willunga.The Fleurieu takes the limelight for the men’s TDU on stages 4 and 5, Glenelg to Victor Harbor on Friday 24 January and McLaren Vale to Willunga Hill on Saturday 25 January.Stage 4 will feature a journey across the Myponga Reservoir wall and a return to the Nettle Hill climb at Hindmarsh Valley.A loop through McLaren Vale vineyards will follow the descent of Willunga Hill on stage 5, with a change of direction leading to a double climb of Willunga Hill.Visit the Tour website for the full Tour Down Under race programs for 2025. RAA’s tips for sharing the road safely this TDU seasonCyclistsEnsure you have a rear red reflector and front white light or reflector so you can be seen from a distance.Use bike lanes or shared paths where available, keep to the left and do not ride more than two abreast.Use the ‘cycle instead’ journey planner which assists identifying routes and planning trips using cycle routes with better dedicated infrastructure.DriversWhen passing cyclists, allow a gap of at least 1m, or 1.5m where the speed limit is greater than 60km/hYou are allowed to cross double white lines to pass a cyclist, but only if you can see the path is clear of oncoming traffic.When exiting a parallel parked vehicle, check your side mirrors for passing cyclists or use the ‘Dutch reach’. This involves using your left hand to open the driver side door, which directs your vision towards any cyclists that may be approaching from behind.EveryoneBe respectful and patient – so we can all make it home safely.

Story courtesy of Coastlines magazine. Words: Laura Dare.As the Fleurieu Peninsula gears up for the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under (TDU) from 17-26 January, excitement is building for what promises to be a spectacular 25th anniversary edition. For residents of the region, this year's tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience world-class cycling right on their doorstep.The Fleurieu will host three significant stages of the 2025 TDU. The Women's Ziptrak Stage 1 on Friday 17 January will see riders sprint through Aldinga Beach and Yankalilla, with a scenic loop through Carrickalinga and Normanville. The 101.9km stage from Brighton to Aldinga is sure to provide spine tingling moments for spectators along the route.The Women's Ziptrak Stage 2 on Saturday 18 January promises even more excitement as riders take on a challenging 97.4 km course, starting in Goolwa. The route will pass through Victor Harbor, Port Elliot and Middleton before heading back to Goolwa for a thrilling sprint finish.The Men's THINK! Road Safety Stage 5 ,on Saturday January 25, will start in the heart of McLaren Vale at 11.10 am, winding through the region's stunning vineyards and coastline before finishing atop iconic Willunga Hill at approximately 2.50pm. This 145.7km stage is not only a test of endurance for the riders but also a showcase of the Fleurieu Peninsula's natural beauty to a global audience.Martin Morgan, Vice Chair of the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association, is at the forefront of the town's preparations for this landmark event."It's an exciting day for the town," he says. "We have so many visitors that come in, and it's also great when we host a start as well, because a lot of people use local accommodation, bed and breakfasts and the town’s excellent catering businesses."The tourism association is pulling out all the stops to ensure McLaren Vale puts its best foot forward for the 25th anniversary."Starting a couple of years ago, in conjunction with McLaren Vale Grape Wine and Tourism, we organised a huge spray-painted logo on the outskirts of McLaren Vale along the route the cyclists take," Martin says."We're looking to enlarge it this year, giving it a bit of a change."This eye-catching feature has become a hallmark of McLaren Vale's TDU celebrations, capturing the attention of international broadcasters and viewers.Street decorations will play a crucial role in creating a festive atmosphere."We'll be decorating the street, putting up a lot of flags, particularly around Ellis Park. We'll put bunting down the street, promoting the event," Martin says.The town will also repeat its popular Decorate a Bike competition, where local businesses get creative with bicycles to get into the spirit of the event.The economic impact of the TDU on McLaren Vale is significant."If you look at the trading of McLaren Vale’s catering establishments in the mornings, even when we didn't have a start, it really makes an impact,” Martin says.“There are so many cyclists coming through, and they will stop for coffees."This influx of visitors provides a welcome boost to local businesses during what can often be a quieter period after the peak Christmas holiday season.For spectators, the TDU offers unparalleled access to world-class athletes."You can get close up to the riders very quickly," Martin says."You can watch them at various venues, and you know where they're coming through towns, so you can follow them, driving on to the next town and parking up."This accessibility is part of what makes the TDU such a beloved event among both cycling fans and casual observers.The growth of the TDU over its 25-year history has been remarkable, with Martin observing an increase in both attendance and the event's impact on cycling culture in South Australia."It's attracting more interstate visitors, and generally, it's also stimulating the growth of cycling in South Australia in particular," he says.Development of bike tracks and pedestrian walkways in the region has further enhanced the appeal of cycling as a hobby and mode of transport on the Fleurieu.As McLaren Vale prepares to welcome the world for the 25th Santos Tour Down Under, the sense of community pride is palpable. Martin says the event always receives an overwhelmingly positive response from locals.For residents of the Fleurieu Peninsula, the TDU presents an unparalleled opportunity to be part of a world-class sporting event. Whether cheering on the peloton as it races through picturesque coastal towns, joining the festivities in McLaren Vale, or witnessing the gruelling climb up Willunga Hill, there's something for everyone to enjoy.Find out everything you need to know to enjoy the 2025 Tour Down Under at tourdownunder.com.au

Parents are being urged to be vigilant with young children around water this summer, following multiple presentations to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital for near-drownings and tragically one death. In 2024 10 children aged 10 months to 14-years-old were admitted to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital for drowning incidents – nine children for near drownings and sadly a four-year-old who passed away. In 2023, 10 children also required treatment for drowning incidents – eight for near drownings and two children who tragically died. All 10 were under the age of five. South Australia averages around 2.4 child deaths a year from drownings. Most involve children aged one to four years and occur in private pools – often involving non-compliant pool fencing, open or unlocked gates and lapses in supervision. Drowning is the world’s leading cause of unintentional death for children aged one to three. The most common factor for infant drownings is leaving children unsupervised.  Parents and caregivers are reminded to also stay alert around small bodies of water, like bathtubs and blow-up pools. Experts advise that a child can drown silently in as little as three centimetres of water, in less than 20 seconds.  About a quarter of all drowning deaths of children aged one to four years occur due to incidents involving bathtubs or small bodies of water. Importantly, for every child who drowns, ten others are rescued from a near drowning incident.Women’s and Children’s Hospital Paediatric Trauma Nurse Consultant Jacqueline Winters says non-fatal or near drowning incidents cause numerous preventable injuries each year. “Children can suffer significantly with long term effects including brain damage and permanent disability. “We are urging families to be extremely cautious around water and make sure they’re prepared if anything happens. The first few minutes of an emergency can make the difference between life and death. Every second counts and we urge parents to familiarise themselves with first aid.” Emergency department physicians have these safety tips:Teach children to swim from a young age.Ensure children are wearing fit-for-purpose flotation devices and bright swimwear so it is easy to see them in the water.Always have a dedicated adult supervising children and avoid distractions including mobile phones.Remove toys from pools so they don’t attract children.Do not allow children to play near or sit on pool or spa drains. Body parts and hair may be sucked in because of the strong suction.Learn resuscitation.Ensure pool fencing is compliant - gates self-close, there are no climbable objects near, there is no excess space under the fence and gates are not propped open.For anyone experiencing an emergency around water, call Triple Zero immediately. If a child requires urgent care but you aren’t sure if they need an emergency department, contact the Child and Adolescent Virtual Urgent Care Service from any mobile device. For more information on water safety tips visit the SA Health website.

This week, RSPCA South Australia is proud to feature Isabella and Sierra, an adorable bonded pair looking for a special home where they can stay together forever.IsabellaAID: 191258Meet Isabella, a loving dog with a big heart. Isabella and her best friend, Sierra, are joined at the hip and do everything together—from cuddling on the couch to exploring the neighborhood. At four years old, Isabella is ready to find a forever home where she and Sierra can settle in and be loved as the perfect pair they are.You can learn more about Isabella and see her profile here.SierraAID: 191257Say hello to Sierra! This gentle and sweet four-year-old girl shares an inseparable bond with Isabella. Sierra is affectionate and loving, thriving in a home where she can explore at her own pace with her best friend by her side. Together, they make an amazing duo that will bring double the love and joy to their new family.Check out Sierra’s profile for more details here.A Perfect PairIsabella and Sierra are looking for a family that will give them the time they need to adjust to their new surroundings. They’ve been through a lot together and are ready to embark on their next adventure as a pair. If you think you have the perfect home for this dynamic duo, come meet them at RSPCA South Australia’s O’Halloran Hill animal care campus.For more information, visit www.rspcasa.org.au.