Alexandrina Council is calling on the south coast community to chip in on the topic of time capsules, following the recent discovery of historic items in the old Port Elliot Council Chamber.Council-related memorabilia spanning 60 years were found in a sealed poly pipe during works to replace the hardwood floors at the historic building on The Strand.The unofficial time capsule included a 1965 letter penned by Mr Bristow-Smith, District Clerk of Port Elliot Council, and another signed by signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the District Council of Port Elliot and Goolwa, Errol Commane, in 1995.There were also pre-decimal coins and work orders for earlier repairs and renovations of the council chamber from 1995 and 2001, as well as staff lists and the names of ward councillors from 1995.A note dated 1995 indicates that the 1965 items were found in a bottle during those renovations and were then added to and placed in the poly pipe.Alexandrina Council has maintained the heritage-listed building as a meeting space and venue for local community groups since amalgamations meant it was no longer used as a local council chamber.The ‘time capsule’ has been placed in a temperature-controlled archive space and the council is asking the community if the tradition should be continued.Full details of the ‘time capsule’ contents can be found on the Alexandrina Council Facebook page.

An independent Royal Commission must be convened to examine the wide-ranging and devastating impacts of the toxic algal bloom on South Australia’s marine industries, according to the state opposition.The Liberal Party is calling on the state government to allocate funding to support the Royal Commission and recommends the terms of reference include:A review of marine environment monitoring.Identifying key environmental early warning signs of toxic algal blooms.Examining health impacts of the toxic algae to marine life and humans.Economic impact of marine disasters on coastal communities and industries.Preventative measures to avoid or reduce impact of future events.Recommendations for how to respond to future events.Leader of the Opposition Vincent Tarzia says the sheer scale of the environmental disaster on our coastline demands this scale of response.“This goes far beyond politics. This is about doing all we can collectively to ensure we understand the full impact of this disaster and what actions we can take to help the affected industries,” he says. “The experience of similar incidents around the world shows that it could be several years before our fishing, aquaculture and tourism industries recover from the enormity of the algal bloom event.“A Royal Commission would bring independent accountability, transparency and real recommendations for the best way to support our industries now and into the future.“We firmly believe that a Royal Commission is what this crisis deserves and will bring the necessary independent oversight to this issue. I would encourage the government to pursue this as a matter of urgency.”Acting Premier Susan Close has rejected the call, saying it would be a waste of money asking questions scientists have already answered.The Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Regional South Australia, Dr Nicola Centofanti, says the state’s marine industries are worth hundreds of millions of dollars to the economy and they deserve this investment in their future."Royal Commissions are the highest form of public inquiry in our democratic system,” Dr Centofanti says.“We establish them when an issue is so serious, so complex, or so systemic that it demands a deep, independent investigation, beyond what a Government department or Parliamentary committee can provide.“While a Royal Commission provides a medium to long term solution, we are also calling on the Government to do better when it comes to immediate relief.“We are calling for a full waiver of commercial fishing license fees beyond June of this year for those affected.“When boats can’t go out and catches can’t be made, it really is unjustified to expect businesses to pay fees that are normally based on active commercial use.”Shadow Minister for the Environment and Finniss MP David Basham says a Royal Commission would also look at the impact natural disasters have on coastal communities who rely on tourism and marine industries.“Many coastal towns have now had two peak school holiday periods impacted by this algal bloom, yet where is the relief or certainty for them?“The future of our coastal environment, communities and industries relies on us doing the right thing now, and that means an urgent and independent Royal Commission.“Labor’s environmental platform to date seems to be an effort to secure COP and even that being delivered is in doubt.“Labor has done nothing but grandstand its environmental credentials by declaring a climate emergency, but this is pure tokenism when they fail to respond when the impact of that emergency washes up on our shores.”

Work starts today, Monday 14 July on a level crossing pedestrian maze on East Terrace in Strathalbyn.Alexandrina Council is project managing the works, which are an AusGov Infrastructure project. The project aims to create a safer pedestrian crossing on the active train line on East Terrace.It is expected to be completed in early August, weather permitting.Traffic management will be in place throughout the project for vehicle and pedestrian safety, with a 25 km/h speed limit.

Too many bloomin’ ideasWords: David O’Brien | Images: Shane Grocke of Fleurieu ImageryThanks to Coast Lines magazineHave you ever realised that what you’re meant to do in life has been right in front of you all along?That’s exactly what happened to Luisa Berry Smith when she found herself on the western Fleurieu coast after life took an unexpected turn five years ago.“It was the wrong time in history—when COVID hit. I lost my job and spent six months looking for work in Adelaide with no luck. I came down to Normanville for a weekend away, saw the local café was hiring, and thought, ‘Great, I’ll work from here and figure something out.’ Five years later, I’ve moved down permanently and own a business.”Luisa’s story takes a few loops, so let’s rewind.“I worked in hospitality after uni in the 2000s while travelling. It was an easy job to pick up—if you're a hospitable person, it’s just about learning a few niche skills and you can go anywhere.”Then came a big career shift: “I switched to finance for 13 years, climbed the corporate ladder and everything. But eventually I realised corporate life wasn’t for me. I took everything I learned—financial skills, team management—and brought it with me into the café world.”Fast forward to Normanville, where Luisa took up a local café job. But she wasn’t settled.“I worked at the café for about a year, then moved on. I just couldn’t find the right fit—worked at Bunnings, Ampol, even tried remote work as a travel consultant. Nothing clicked. Then my absolute favourite café in Normanville went up for sale. It was a tiny 32-seater on the corner next to the bakery. It was called Southbound Diner. I’d never owned a business before but thought, ‘Why not? I’ll give it a go for the length of the lease—three years. If it’s going well, I’ll keep going.’”It’s clear Luisa is someone who thinks deeply—and acts decisively. When opportunity knocks, she opens the door.Just over a year into running the newly named Southbound Café, another door opened.“I had the chance to lease the Old Courthouse—a 163-year-old heritage-listed building. It had been vacant for seven months, and people were wondering what would happen with it. I saw the opportunity to expand and jumped.”For Luisa, bringing the heritage building back to life was just as important as growing her business.“It’s a building for the community. It has so much history. Everyone had a connection to it. I wanted to honour that.”She took over just two weeks before Christmas 2024.“I’ve probably quadrupled my seating space. I rebranded, renamed, completely restyled the café.”At the heart of Bloom & Brew Co. is a love for good coffee.“Coffee brings people in. Once you win them over with great coffee—right beans, right milk—you can turn them into diners.”Luisa is also deeply committed to local produce.“I wanted to use mostly South Australian products—food and drinks. We’re on the Fleurieu! We’ve got amazing local suppliers—Fleurieu Milk Company, Patio Coffee Roasters in Adelaide, Eden Valley Farms for olive oil, feta, olives. My fruit and veg come from just up the road in Seaford. And we serve local beer and wine.”Her dedication has been recognised—Bloom & Brew Co. is now a Brand SA partner.Upstairs, she’s maximised the space further by creating a co-working hub.“There are three rooms. One’s a boardroom for meetings or workshops—seats eight, has whiteboards, a TV for video calls. Another has hot desks for affordable hire for an hour or a day. The third is a longer-term space for people working down here, especially in summer.“We’ve started running workshops—we hosted two pottery classes for the Festival Fleurieu, and a macramé wall hanging session. Live music is starting up. And later this year, when it’s warmer, I’d love to run an open-air cinema night.”Luisa is full of ideas and she’s not slowing down. If you want to more of her plans—and there are many—head down to Bloom & Brew Co. in Normanville. Chances are, she’s got another idea brewing.

Police are investigating the death of a driver at Sellicks Hill yesterday morning.Emergency services were called to reports of a single vehicle collision about 10.15am on Saturday 12 July on Main South Road, Sellicks Hill.Sadly, the driver, a local man aged in 70s, was pronounced deceased at the scene.It is suspected that a medical episode contributed to his death and the minor collision.Police will be preparing a report for the Coroner.Anyone who witnessed this incident or has dashcam footage that would assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

With winter well and truly here, many thoughts turn to warm jumpers, gloves and scarves.Anyone interested on creating their own winter warmers can attend a free workshop on Friday 18 July at either Goolwa or Strathalbyn library to learn how to knit.Learn the relaxing, rewarding art of knitting in a fun and welcoming workshop designed especially for beginners.Knitting needles, wool, and step-by-step guidance will be provided to learn basic stitches and techniques.No experience is necessary—just take hands and creativity to be a part of Firstival – trying out new things in the library.The Goolwa session is at 10am to 11.30am. Book via Eventbrite. The Strathalbyn session is from2pm to 3.30pm. Book via Eventbrite.Both sessions are suitable for children aged 10+ and young adults who are ready to try something new, meet others, and pick up a timeless craft. 

A passenger has died in a fatal crash at Torrens Vale, near Yankalilla, on the Fleurieu Peninsula, overnight.The single vehicle collision occurred on Parawa Road, Torrens Vale about 3.45am on Saturday 12 July.Sadly, one of the passengers, a 20-year-old Flinders Park man, died at the scene.The driver, a 21-year-old Flinders Park man, and other passenger, a 21-year-old Torrensville man, were both taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.Major Crash investigators attended and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.Parawa Road was closed in both directions between Range Road and Torrens Vale Road while Major Crash investigators examined the scene but will reopen shortly.The young man's death is the 42nd life lost on South Australian roads so far this year.

Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Sellicks Hill.The single vehicle collision occurred about 10.15am on Saturday 12 July on Main South Road, Sellicks Hill.The road is expected to be closed for northbound traffic while emergency services are at the scene.Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

🐾 About WillowHello, I’m Willow! I’m a sweet and loyal tabby cat looking for a calm and loving forever home.☀️ My favourite pastime? Lounging in the sun on a cosy windowsill—just look at me soaking up those rays!I can be a bit shy at first, but once I warm up, I’ll reward your patience with endless cuddles and affection. If you’re the type who appreciates quiet companionship and slow bonding, I might just be your perfect match.🏡 Willow’s Ideal Home✅ Independent but friendly ✅ Would thrive in a home with a small family of adults ✅ Open to a slow introduction to other pets🐱 Adopt Willow for just $45 this week only as part of RSPCA South Australia’s Pet of the Week promotion!📍 Learn more or arrange a visit: Willow | RSPCA South AustraliaLet’s find Willow the peaceful home she truly deserves!

Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Torrens Vale, near Yankalilla, on the Fleurieu Peninsula.The single vehicle collision occurred on Parawa Road, Torrens Vale about 3.45am on Saturday 12 July.Parawa Road is closed in both directions between Range Road and Torrens Vale Road while Major Crash investigators examine the scene.Motorists are asked to avoid the area this morning.

Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism is inviting visitors to ‘unearth’ the best of the world-famous region this winter with a new tourism campaign and revitalised events in the cooler months.Fleurieu Unearthed is a celebration of food, wine, story and place that supports small operators in the region and builds on the South Australian Tourism Commission’s current tactical marketing campaign – ‘Simple Pleasures Guide to Winter’ - to drive off-peak regional visitation.Fleurieu Unearthed unites three hero festivals from August until October:Fleurieu Food Festival | 1-31 August - managed by Fleurieu Food Inc, Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism and South Australian Destination Management Co.Langhorne Creek Cellar Treasures | 15-17 August – managed by Langhorne Creek Grape & Wine Inc.McLaren Vale Grenache & Gourmet | 19 September to 6 October – managed by McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism AssociationEvent highlights include a personal chef experience at off-grid Nest & Nature; Canoe the Coorong for bushtucker walks and local fish burger on the sand dunes; a relaxed long lunch in Langhorne Creek; and the Fun-ghi Dining Experience at Ekhidna Kitchen & Wines.Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison says Fleurieu Unearthed is the perfect celebration of what makes the Fleurieu Peninsula a must-visit destination all year round.“We know events trigger visitation and entice visitors to stay longer, and I have no doubt the three hero festivals on offer this winter will see foodies and festival goers commit to a trip to the Fleurieu Peninsula throughout the traditionally quieter months. Discover the Fleurieu Unearthed on the website.Tourism is a core economic driver for the Fleurieu Peninsula, supporting thousands of jobs across accommodation, hospitality, retail, experiences, and events.Many businesses, from small family-run ventures to larger operators, rely on seasonal tourism demand. Beyond economic benefits, tourism enhances community vibrancy, cultural exchange, and regional branding—drawing attention to local food, wine, and outdoor experiences.South Australian tourism operators and industry bodies can find out more about how to leverage the campaign online. 

Kangaroo Island Council has announced Jack Kay as its 2025 Young Achiever of the Year, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Island community.The council says Jack Kay impressed with his dedication, leadership and community spirit. “Whether volunteering his time, supporting local causes, or leading by example among his peers, Jack’s commitment to making a difference was clear.” He will receive a $150 prize.Also acknowledged was Ava Mills, whose positive impact and inspiring efforts earned her a High Commendation and a $100 award. This year, the council received six nominations for the Young Achiever of the Year Award, each highlighting the remarkable efforts of young Islanders across a range of fields. While only one recipient and one commendation were awarded, the council says it was a difficult decision given the calibre of nominees, who all make a positive impact in their communities.The awards will be presented as part of this year’s Settlement Day ceremony on Monday 28 July at the Pioneers Memorial on Kingscote Esplanade.The council invites the community to attend the address by Mayor Michael Pengilly at 10.30am, followed by guest speaker Jeff Howard and the awards presentation. A free community morning tea will be held at Kingscote Council Chambers at 11.30am.This annual event commemorates the arrival of South Australia’s first free settlers.“The Young Achiever Award is one of the most meaningful honours we can give,” says Mayor Michael Pengilly. “It shines a light on the next generation of leaders who already demonstrate the values that make our Island community so special. Jack and Ava should be incredibly proud.”

Alexandrina Council adopted its Annual Community Plan 2025/26 and Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2035 at a Special Meeting on Monday 7 July.“This Annual Community Plan reaffirms our commitment to keeping rates affordable while ensuring long-term financial sustainability,” says Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes.“The Plan works around an average rate increase of 3.05%, comprising the March Adelaide CPI of 2.2% and an additional 0.85% to support financial sustainability - reflecting the rising cost of maintaining public assets. “This average rate increase was proposed in the draft Annual Community Plan 2025/26.“This year’s budget and the Long Term Financial Plan are the result of months of work with our new Executive Team to reform Council’s finances and provide a sensible balance while looking towards improvements in the future.“This work has resulted in a significant reduction in forecast discretionary expenditure while continuing to deliver of all of Council’s existing community services and programs and providing full funding for the renewal of essential assets such as roads, footpaths, and buildings.“We have also taken major steps to address the concerns about the Council’s long-term financial sustainability raised in the Essential Services Commission of South Australia report released in February.“The work by Council Members and our Executive Team has significantly improved our financial outlook. “These actions have eased pressure on rates, reduce debt, and set us on course to return to surplus by 2027/28 - with strong, ongoing surpluses projected in following years.”Final capital value figures from the Office of the Valuer-General showed rate revenue growth reduced from 1.8% as forecast in the draft Annual Community Plan to 1.4% for the adopted Plan. This reduction has been offset by a reduction in discretionary rate rebates and additional income in CWMS fixed charges.The average residential property with 10.7% increase in capital value will experience an increase in general rates of $77 to $2,545, while the average primary production property with a 7.5% increase in capital value is increasing by $54 to $2,812.The council is proposing an operating deficit of $2.082 million, but says the Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2035 shows it remains on track to achieve a surplus by 2027/28, that it is able to reduce its debt from $46.6 million to $9.7 million by 2035 and that it has the financial capacity necessary to support its growing community.In the 2025/26 budget, $15.970 million will be set aside for capital expenditure on renewal of existing assets with $5.434 million for capital expenditure on new or upgraded assets.“I would like to thank everyone who participated in the public consultation process on the Annual Community Plan 2025/26,” Mayor Parkes says.“Council Members did listen to community feedback, and we brought forward the Middleton stormwater mitigation project into the 2025/26 financial year.“We are also delivering several small infrastructure projects requested by the community during public consultation and we have adopted a continuous improvement program.”Projects and budget adjustments made to the draft Annual Community Plan which were resolved by Council at the Special Council Meeting include the following:Inclusion of $70,000 for Albyn Terrace, Strathalbyn electrical works to install power outlets to support ‘Christmas Where the Angas Flows’ and other similar events.Decrease from $250,000 to $200,000 for the design of Strathalbyn Recreation Precinct (Lot 10).Decrease in information technology software budget - $150,000.A $30,000 decrease in grant program funding given the nature of some of the new operating projects for 2025/26.An increase of $10,000 to the Council contribution to the traffic management costs of ‘Christmas Where the Angas Flows’ event in Strathalbyn.Strathalbyn Swimming Pool season extension trail 2025/26 – $35,000.Burgess Oval Irrigation for the Mount Compass Cricket Club - $21,000.Goolwa Netball Club shelters - $10,000.Langhorne Creek Netball Club shed - $10,000.Community Survey - $30,000.Special contribution for 2025/26 for 10 community halls - $10,000 (total).Community Trees giveaway initiative - $5,000 (details to be confirmed).Stakeholder consultation on Cadell Street progressive tree replacement.

Drivers are advised to stay alert on the roads tomorrow, Friday, July 11, with mobile speed detection units set to operate throughout the Fleurieu Peninsula and across South Australia.As part of a continued focus on road safety, police have released a statewide list of speed camera locations, targeting areas with high traffic and known speeding issues. Whether you're heading into the city, travelling locally, or starting your weekend getaway, be sure to check your speed and drive responsibly.Below is the full list of camera locations scheduled for monitoring tomorrow. Let’s all do our part to ensure safer roads for everyone.ADAMS RD, CRAIGMOREBAINS RD, WOODCROFTBARRAMUNDI DR, HALLETT COVEBLACK TOP RD, HILLBANKBURTON RD, PARALOWIEDYSON RD, CHRISTIES BEACHEDUCATION RD, HAPPY VALLEYELIZABETH RD, MORPHETT VALEELIZABETH WAY, ELIZABETHFORDINGBRIDGE RD, DAVOREN PARKHILLIER RD, REYNELLAIFOULD RD, ELIZABETH PARKMAIN NORTH RD, ELIZABETH DOWNSMAIN SOUTH RD, MORPHETT VALEMIDWAY RD, ELIZABETH PARKPHILIP HWY, ELIZABETHRIVER RD, PORT NOARLUNGAROY TCE, CHRISTIES BEACHSALISBURY HWY, PARAFIELD GARDENSSHEREBROOKE BVD, WOODCROFTSHERRIFFS RD, MORPHETT VALESHERRIFFS RD, LONSDALESTEBONHEATH RD, DAVOREN PARKTARGET HILL RD, SALISBURY HEIGHTSWHITES RD, PARALOWIE

The Fleurieu Coast has again borne the brunt of recent winter storms, with more damage done to the Second Valley jetty causeway this week.Part of the heritage listed stone causeway has collapsed and District Council of Yankalilla Mayor Darryl Houston told ABC radio it could take some time to repair as only certain people are qualified to do such work.Second Valley Caravan Park & Jetty Store posted to Facebook that the jetty held up well, but the stone walkway just past the bridge that has sustained damage.The jetty has now been closed, joining the Normanville jetty and other facilities in the region in need of significant repairs following storm damage in May and June.Very high tides, strong winds and heavy surf  have impacted jetties, causeways and beach stairs at  Normanville, Carrickalinga, Second Valley, Rapid Bay, Myponga Beach and Cape Jervis.The council was forced to close its own offices on Tuesday 8 July due to a power outage caused by storm damage.

The state government will provide immediate, backdated fee relief for commercial fishers, aquaculture and charter boat operators impacted by the algal bloom affecting South Australia’s coastline. It says a significant harmful algal bloom, caused by the species Karenia mikimotoi, has been impacting large areas of South Australia’s coastline since March 2025. The naturally occurring algal bloom has caused widespread marine mortalities and disruption to commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations. Some operators in the Marine Scalefish Fishery have experienced declines in catch and economic viability, particularly in Gulf St Vincent, Kangaroo Island, and the Yorke Peninsula. Some oyster growers and pipi harvesters have also been affected. Charter boat operations and fisheries around the River Murray mouth and Lakes and Coorong have been impacted to varying degrees.South coast fishing charter business Pirate's Sea Charter's has suspended operations indefinitely, posting to Facebook:"Unfortunately we regrettably advise that we are currently NOT doing any charters due to the impact of the algal bloom in the Fleurieu region. The impact has been devastating to the area with fish becoming scarce and sparse. Please keep in touch and we hope to be back running charters soon!"The business also operates The Pirate's Se Chest fish market in Encounter Bay and it is sourcing all its produce from outside the areas affected by the algal bloom to ensure safety.On Friday 4 July, the state government hosted a forum with key stakeholders affected by the algal bloom and a number raised fee relief as a measure that could provide immediate help. In recognition of the ongoing impact it will offer an initial relief package to affected licence holders to waive fees from April to June 2025, which will equate to an estimated $500,000 worth of fee relief. Eligible fees for relief consideration include:PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture annual licence fees.Biosecurity SA Food Safety Scheme and audit fees.Aquaculture lease and licence fees.Acting Premier and Environment Minister Susan Close says the state government has been meeting with commercial fishers and tourism operators to better understand the impacts harmful Karenia mikimotoi algal bloom has had on their businesses. “As well as today’s fee relief, the State Government continues to explore research priorities and industry supports so we can help to mitigate future outbreaks and the effect it has on industry. “We will continue to work with the fishing and tourism industries to support them through this difficult time and continue to look at research and recovery investment options.”  Ben Barnes is Chairperson of the South Australian Professional Fishers Association and has welcomed the announcement of fee relief.  “This support recognises the severe and sustained disruption our fishers have faced over recent months, with many experiencing reduced catches, lost income, and long-term uncertainty. “Waiving licence and associated fees during this period is a practical and appreciated step that will help ease financial pressure while operators work to recover from the impacts of this natural event.” Shadow Environment Minister and Finniss MP David Basham has welcomed the fee relief but says it does not go far enough and falls short of addressing the full scale of the crisis in SA waters.He says many impacted businesses are small, family-run operations and communities that need clear information, ongoing support, and a plan for recovery."Our main concern is that without further action to address cost recovery pressures and urgent cash flow support, many licensed fishers may be forced out of the industry permanently.“We also don't know the true impact of the algal bloom on fish stocks - nor do we know how long it will take to recover from what has been described as a bushfire underwater.“After a bushfire, there are systems and processes in place which allow for plans to be developed, and damage to be assessed - the algal bloom is no exception, and there must be measures like this in place to ensure the sustainability of the fishing industry moving forward.The Department of Primary Industries and Regions will continue working with the Marine Fishers Association, the South Australian Professional Fishers Association and the South Australian Oyster Growers Association  to assess the scale of the impact and target support.Impacted licence holders are encouraged to work with their industry association to access the fee relief process. Industry associations are compiling claims and submitting them to PIRSA for assessment. Those who are not members of an association can contact PIRSA directly via telephone on 8207 5332, or via email.  Fisheries and aquaculture licence holders facing financial hardship due to the algal bloom are eligible for the South Australian Government Rural Support Grant, administered by the RBS Relief Fund, where individuals can receive up to $1,500 in financial assistance to help cover essential household expenses such as utilities, groceries, rates and medical costs. Support is also available for licence holders facing financial hardship through the Rural Financial Counselling Service and the Family and Business Support Program.For more information visit the PIRSA website.   

The first release of homes at a new coastal estate at Noarlunga has gone on sale, delivering high-quality, affordable housing to the area. The Noarlunga development will include over 620 dwellings, aligned with the Premier’s Housing Roadmap, with releases in coming months featuring a mix of larger land parcels, premium house and land packages, and sought-after locations. Eleven affordable house and land packages have been listed at Noarlunga development, through HomeSeeker SA, with prices starting from $525,000. Some eligible packages also include up to 25 per cent shared equity through the  HomeStart scheme. The homes are a mix of two and three-bedroom, semi-detached townhouses, located along the north-western edge of the development, and will be built by South Australian builder UrbanLux. Renewal SA aims to release approximately 80 additional opportunities to purchase in Noarlunga throughout the second half of 2025. Civil works are underway to prepare roads, sewers and essential services ahead of the construction of the first homes and public spaces. Construction of the first homes is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the first residents expected to move in by the end of next year. As home construction progresses, early planning is also underway for the first public open spaces within the development.An entry reserve will be built off Dyson Road providing an area of approximately 2000sqm for the community, with an additional central reserve of 935sqm space also to be delivered within this early stage. Construction of these open spaces will begin in mid-2026, with both parks expected to open to the community by late-2026. Twelve and a half percent of the 22-hectare development will be dedicated to public open space, unlocking green pockets throughout the estate for the new community. Renewal SA engaged with the local community in 2024 to seek input into the plan for the development of the previously vacant land, following its 2023 announcement of the new master planned community. Delivered in partnership with the South Australian Housing Trust, the Noarlunga development will offer a mix of direct-to-market housing, affordable housing and social housing. Renewal SA will also explore the potential for affordable rentals managed by a community housing provider. Deputy Mayor of City of Onkaparinga Lauren Jew says the community has made it clear that having a variety of homes to suit people’s needs is vital for the future of the area. “We’re really pleased the state government is committed to making this development a practical example of what can be achieved, including a minimum 28 per cent affordable and social housing to support those who are missing out in the current market. “Council is committed to playing its part in making our city liveable and sustainable into the future, and we’ve approved a new affordable housing strategy to do just that. We look forward to welcoming new residents to this centrally located, high-quality development.” The development spans two land parcels on either side of Lovelock Drive, within the suburbs of Port Noarlunga and Noarlunga Downs.President of South Adelaide Football Club Geoff Baynes says this new well planned development will meet the needs of the local community.“The Club, as the leading community sporting club in the South, is committed to providing the sport and recreational connections for the families who will live in the new community.“As a community sporting organisation we embrace the opportunities that present themselves due to having a close knit family oriented development right on our doorsteps and will do everything to welcome everyone to our community complex.”Visit the website for more information.       

Regenerating agricultural land can seem like a mammoth task with few short-term rewards, but for Delamere beef and sheep farmers Ben and Julianne Ryan, noticeable improvements in soil health and structure have been achieved in just four years on their property.Since leasing the parcel of land on the Fleurieu Peninsula in 2020, the Ryans have adopted regenerative grazing practices that have reduced soil compaction and improved the soil’s ability to absorb water, oxygen and nutrients.Bonnie Armour is Carbon Farming and Soil Extension Officer at Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu. She says the Ryans have vastly improved soil and pasture health in a relatively short timeframe by implementing some foundational regenerative agriculture principles.“Ben and Julianne have considered the state of their environment, pasture plants and weeds, and have reduced their chemical and fertiliser inputs,” she says.“Importantly, they’ve managed the grazing of stock to change their landscape, de-stocking when appropriate to work with the capacity of the land.”During a recent visit, Ms Armour conducted soil tests and was impressed by the improvements compared to the property's 2020 findings.“There’s a great diversity of pasture plants with significant tap roots, which shows resilience in the soil,” she says.“Visiting the property, it was great to see the overall soil strength and moisture in the soil profile and the cattle looked extremely healthy.”Regenerative agriculture focuses on enhancing soil by restoring five key landscape functions: solar energy capture, water cycle efficiency, soil-mineral dynamics, ecosystem diversity, and human-social connections.In practice, this involves looks minimising soil disturbance through no-till methods, maintaining surface vegetation (green growing cover is most effective) and keeping living roots in the soil for as long as possible. Regenerative principles also focus on enhancing soil biological diversity by using a mix of perennial pasture species and caring for native vegetation. Strategic livestock grazing and resting periods further support these goals, helping to reduce the need for inputs such as fertilisers and herbicides.“Ben and Julianne’s pastures and farming systems are a great case study, demonstrating how small gains can be made to soil health in a relatively short time. Little changes can have a big impact – if you're ready to explore regenerative practices for your own land, our team is here to support you,” Ms Armour says.Learn more about regenerative agriculture principles, including connecting with local networks and viewing local case studies on the Landscape SA website. landscape.sa.gov.au/hf/regenagThis project is funded by the South Australian Government’s Landscape Priorities Fund, which redistributes landscape levies collected by Green Adelaide in the metropolitan area to regional landscape boards. The event is also supported by the SA Soils Collaboration Centre and the Soils Knowledge Network.

Learn how to save on heating costs and stay warm this winter at a Strathalbyn workshop to learn energy-saving tips for the home.Alexandrina Council, in collaboration with Second Nature Conservancy and Green Adelaide, will host a winter-smart workshop on Tuesday 15 July.It will be held at the Strathalbyn Natural Resource Centre from 6pm to 7.30pm.The workshop will include practical energy-saving tips and information about where homes consume the most energy and what can be done about it.An energy assessor expert will lead the event, which is open to all residents, renters and homeowners. A light supper will also be provided.It is free to attend, but bookings are essential, via Humanitix..