Deep Creek FireThe SA Country Fire Service (CFS) is urging community in the area around Deep Creek National Park, 8 kilometres east of Cape Jervis in the Fleurieu Peninsula, to enact their bushfire plans and stay out of the area.The fire is uncontrolled, fast moving and burning steadily in steep and inaccessible terrain. It has now extended into the Talisker Conservation Park, in the Silverton area and has burnt more than 960 hectares. Multiple hotspots are continuing to be identified within the fireground and conditions remain dynamic. CFS, with support from Department for Environment and Water, Forestry SA and SA Metropolitan Fire Service, currently have more than 250 firefighters working both to contain the fire and on asset protection for the multiple structures currently under threat. Firefighting efforts will remain ongoing over the coming days and extra personnel are being brought in from across the state to support. Ground crews are being supported by 12 aircraft, including firebombers and observational aircraft, who have completed 230 drops over the fire today. There is a warning message issued for this fire. Please stay informed through the CFS website or Alert SA app.Anyone in the impacted areas are encouraged to enact their bushfire plans and stay informed as this situation is quickly changing. This fire is currently heading towards Cape Jervis and while not currently expected to be impacted the local community are advised to be ready to enact their bushfire plan if the situation changes. The carpark, north of Cape Jervis lighthouse is the closest last resort refuge to this fire. Main South Road is now closed westbound between Cole Road, Delamere to Cape Jervis. Anyone looking to leave Cape Jervis can currently do so, however this situation is constantly changing, and the road may be fully closed at short notice based on conditions. Blowhole Beach Road, along with Tent Rock Road south of the Three Bridges Road intersection are also closed. This fire may be putting a lot of smoke up over the local area. As a precaution residents who suffer from respiratory or cardic conditions may wish to consider closing all doors and windows and remaining indoors.Smoke from this fire may be impacting surrounding areas and emergency services will continue working on and around roads. Motorists are urged to avoid the area if possible. If travel is essential, please drive with caution and adhere to local conditions. The western part of Deep Creek National Park remains closed and Talisker Conservation Park is fully closed. Visitors should remain alert and stay informed.The SeaLink Ferry remains operational. A CFS staging area is operating at the Yankalilla Showgrounds, and Yankalilla Oval is being used for aviation operations. The public is asked to stay clear of these areas.People are also reminded that drones pose a serious hazard to firefighting aircraft and must be kept well away from firegrounds.Message ID 0009169

Emergency Warning - DEEP CREEK Bushfire - Take Shelter NowWARNING AREADeep Creek, Silverton and Blowhole Beach Road, and Cape Jervis, near the Fleurieu Peninsula in South AustraliaACTIONTake shelter now in a solid building. You are now in danger. Do not delay. Do not leave or enter this area in a vehicle or on foot. It is too late to leave as the roads will not be safe. Conditions are dangerous and firefighters are now unable to prevent the fire spreading. Shelter before the fire arrives as heat can kill you well before the flames reach you. The Deep Creek fire is uncontrolled. This scrub fire is burning in a west north westerly direction towards Cape Jervis, Silverton, Deep Creek and Main South Road, north west of the Deep Creek National Park. . Conditions are continually changing. For updates check the CFS website at cfs. sa. gov. au or phone the Information Hotline on 1800 362 361. WHAT YOU SHOULD DOCheck and follow your Bushfire Survival Plan. Protect yourself from the fire’s heat – put on protective clothing. Tell family or friends of your plans.IF YOU ARE LEAVINGLeave now, don’t delay. Roads may become blocked or access may change. Smoke will reduce visibility. Secure your pets for travel. If you become stuck in your car, park away from bushes, cover yourself, get onto the floor as the windows may break from the intense heat.IF YOU ARE NOT LEAVING - PREPARE TO DEFENDIdentify a safe place inside, with more than one exit, before the fire arrives. Keep moving away from the heat of the fire. Bring pets inside and restrain them. Move flammable materials such as doormats, wheelie bins and outdoor furniture away from your house. Close doors and windows to keep smoke out. If you have sprinklers, turn them on to wet the areas. If the building catches fire, go to an area already burnt. Check around you for anything burning.Shapes on this map indicate the warning level and area to which this message applies. YELLOW: Advice; ORANGE: Watch and Act; RED: Emergency Warning

The District Council of Yankalilla will list 51 Local Heritage Places located across the townships of Delamere, Normanville and Yankalilla.It applies to places that have local historical significance that warrants protection from demolition or inappropriate development.The council says social, cultural, and economic factors make Heritage listing important to local townships. “It provides a vital link to the past, shapes identity, fosters community spirit and offers tangible benefits for local economies.”It says listing as a Local Heritage Place does not prevent landowners from renovating or undertaking additions to their property. “Rather, additional consideration needs to be made to ensure the works retain, and not compromise, the listed heritage qualities or features of the place.“Properties adjacent to a listed Local Heritage Place are also automatically subject to planning policy change via the application of the Heritage Adjacency Overlay as contained in the Planning and Design Code. “Accordingly, any new building work will need to be designed so that it does not dominate or impact on the setting of a listed Local Heritage Place.”Visit Your Say Yankalilla for full details; the deadline for feedback is 11.59 pm on Friday 13 March.Hard copies of the documents are also available for viewing at the Council Civic Centre and the Yankalilla Library.Planners will be available to answer questions at two community drop-in sessions on Thursday 12 February and Tuesday 24 February at the Yankalilla Cultural Centre and Library.Anyone can call in between 11am and 3pm or 4pm to 6pm on both days.Approval for the heritage listing was granted by the Minister for Planning; it will remain in place for 12 months or until the Planning Code Amendment process is finalised, whichever is sooner.The council says all feedback will be carefully considered before the Code Amendment is finalised and submitted to the Minister for Planning for a decision.

Four youths have been arrested early this morning.About 11.20pm on Sunday 1 February, police responded to reports of a break-in at a business premises on Beach Road, Christies Beach.It was discovered another two business premises had been broken into and CCTV later confirmed four boys had smashed a door with a rock before entering and stealing items.Further investigation led police to an address at Aldinga beach where police arrested four boys, a 15-year-old, 14-year-old and 13-year-old from the address and another 14-year-old boy from Christie Downs.Each of the boys were charged serious criminal trespass, theft and breaching bail.Police bail was refused and they are expected to attend the Christies Beach Youth Court this morning.30238

The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) is continuing to respond to a bushfire in Deep Creek Conservation Park, around 8 kilometres east of Cape Jervis on the Southern Fleurieu Peninsula.The fire was reported at approximately 4:40pm on Sunday and is burning in grass and scrub in steep, difficult-to-access terrain near Blowhole Beach Road, west of Goondooloo Ridge Track. The fire has since split into two separate fires, burning on either side of Blowhole Beach Road.Overnight, around 175 firefighters supported by 35 trucks and several firefighting aircraft worked in challenging conditions to contain the fire. Relief crews from the CFS, Department for Environment and Water (DEW) and Forestry SA are on the fireground today, with aerial firefighting continuing throughout Monday.While a number of assets have been threatened, there are no reports of property loss or damage at this stage. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and fire investigators will attend once it is safe to do so.A warning message remains current, and the fire is expected to remain uncontained for some time. Residents and visitors are urged to stay informed via the CFS website (cfs.sa.gov.au) or the Bushfire Information Hotline on 1800 362 361.🚧 Road and park closuresBlowhole Beach Road is closed to all trafficTent Rock Road, south of the Three Bridges Road intersection, is also closedEmergency services are operating on and around roads including Yulti Wirra Road — motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible and drive to conditions if travel is necessaryDeep Creek National Park is partly closed, including the Cobbler Creek Campground and picnic areas. Visitors should remain alert and monitor official advice.🚒 Operational areasA CFS staging area has been established at the Yankalilla Showgrounds, with Yankalilla Oval being used for aviation operations. The public is asked to stay clear of these locations.Message ID: 0009149🔥 Bushfire Warning Information – What You Need to Know🗺️ Map warning coloursThe shapes shown on the map indicate the warning area covered by this message:Yellow – AdviceOrange – Watch and ActRed – Emergency WarningThis message may be updated as conditions change, or before 9:26pm (01/02/2026).Message ID: 0009134⚠️ Important safety informationHomes built and prepared to the highest bushfire standards may offer protectionPower, water, phone and data services may be lostFire crews are responding, but do not expect a firefighter at your door🧯 What you should do nowCheck and follow your Bushfire Survival PlanPut on protective clothing to shield yourself from heatLet family or friends know your plans🚗 If you are leavingLeave now — do not delayRoads may become blocked and smoke will reduce visibilitySecure pets so they are ready for travelIf you become stuck in your car:Park away from bushesCover yourselfGet down low on the floor, as windows may break due to heat🏠 If you are staying to defendIdentify a safe place inside with more than one exitKeep moving away from heat as conditions changeBring pets inside and restrain themMove flammable items (doormats, wheelie bins, outdoor furniture) away from the houseClose doors and windows to reduce smokeIf available, turn on sprinklers to wet surrounding areasIf the building catches fire, move to an area already burntWatch for and extinguish spot fires if it is safe to do so📻 Stay informedCFS website: cfs.sa.gov.auCFS Information Hotline: 1800 362 361Hearing or speech impaired:Call 1300 555 727, then ask for 1800 362 361TTY: 133 677, then ask for 1800 362 361Alert SA mobile appLocal ABC Radio, FIVEaa or emergency broadcast partnersCFS on Facebook or X

After seven years of operation, Alexandrina Council’s public Wi-Fi Network will be retired by 27 February.The free Wi-Fi service was originally installed in 2018 through the federal government's Smart Cities and Suburbs Program and aimed to improve digital access across the region at key community and tourism locations across the district.The council says that over time, mobile coverage and affordable data plans have significantly improved digital access in the community while the use of the public network has steadily declined.“Maintaining the infrastructure now costs Council around $66,000 each year, and the infrastructure has reached the end of its serviceable life. “Replacing the ageing equipment will significantly exceed the original $119,600 received in Federal grant funding. Council will also face ongoing maintenance and technology upgrade costs.“Given that the network infrastructure is no longer fit for purpose, due to its age and condition, and the high cost of replacement, the service will be decommissioned on 27 February 2026.”The community can continue to access free Wi-Fi at the council's Goolwa and Strathalbyn Libraries and at Telstra Air/Smart Booth Wi-Fi locations.For more details visit the Alexandrina Council website.

Police are investigating a caravan fire at Meadows last night.Just before 10pm on Saturday 31 January, police and fire crews were called to Day Street after reports of a caravan fire.Fire crews extinguished the blaze, however the caravan and car port were destroyed.There were no injuries reported.Fire Cause Investigators will attend later this morning to determine the circumstances.Anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity or has any information that may assist the investigation is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.Please quote 29429.

Issued: 5:27pm, Saturday 1 February 2026A Watch and Act warning is in place for a bushfire at Deep Creek, near Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula.📍 Affected areaDeep Creek area, including parts near Blowhole Beach Road and Deep Creek Conservation Park.⚠️ What this meansThe fire is uncontrolled and currently burning in a north–north-easterly direction. Conditions are changing and may worsen quickly.🚗 What you should doPrepare to leave nowCheck your planned route is clearMove to a safer location if conditions changeDo not enter the area — conditions are dangerous🔎 Stay informedFor the latest official updates:Visit cfs.sa.gov.auCall the CFS Information Hotline: 1800 362 361More updates will be shared as information becomes available.🔥 Bushfire Warning Information – What You Need to Know🗺️ Map warning coloursThe shapes shown on the map indicate the warning area covered by this message:Yellow – AdviceOrange – Watch and ActRed – Emergency WarningThis message may be updated as conditions change, or before 9:26pm (01/02/2026). Message ID: 0009134⚠️ Important safety informationHomes built and prepared to the highest bushfire standards may offer protectionPower, water, phone and data services may be lostFire crews are responding, but do not expect a firefighter at your door🧯 What you should do nowCheck and follow your Bushfire Survival PlanPut on protective clothing to shield yourself from heatLet family or friends know your plans🚗 If you are leavingLeave now — do not delayRoads may become blocked and smoke will reduce visibilitySecure pets so they are ready for travelIf you become stuck in your car:Park away from bushesCover yourselfGet down low on the floor, as windows may break due to heat🏠 If you are staying to defendIdentify a safe place inside with more than one exitKeep moving away from heat as conditions changeBring pets inside and restrain themMove flammable items (doormats, wheelie bins, outdoor furniture) away from the houseClose doors and windows to reduce smokeIf available, turn on sprinklers to wet surrounding areasIf the building catches fire, move to an area already burntWatch for and extinguish spot fires if it is safe to do so📻 Stay informedCFS website: cfs.sa.gov.auCFS Information Hotline: 1800 362 361Hearing or speech impaired:Call 1300 555 727, then ask for 1800 362 361TTY: 133 677, then ask for 1800 362 361Alert SA mobile appLocal ABC Radio, FIVEaa or emergency broadcast partnersCFS on Facebook or X🚨 For emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)

Content proudly provided by Coast Lines magazineIn the heart of McLaren Vale, where vineyards stretch towards the horizon and community ties run deep, Vikki Yarnold is quietly transforming lives. As the founder of Evolving Pathways, Vikki is not just delivering care — she’s redefining it. Her business offers a deeply personal and flexible approach to disability and aged care services under the NDIS, driven by her own lived experiences and an unwavering belief in human-centred support.Vikki's path into care began not as a caregiver, but as a young patient. Born with skin cancer, she spent much of her childhood undergoing surgeries and extended hospital stays. It was there — in hospitals like Stoke Mandeville in the UK — that she met the nurses who would inspire her future. “I was always in awe of how they made not just the kids, but also our families, feel calm and safe,” she recalls. “Even when everything was frightening, they had a way of making it feel like it was going to be okay.”That early experience left an indelible mark, setting her on a lifelong path of nursing. “I wanted to be that person — the one who could make a difference during someone’s scariest moments,” she says. And that’s exactly what she’s become.Born in the UK, Vikki grew up with grandparents who were fascinated with Australia. "They never made it out here, but they instilled in me this idea that it was a magical place," she says. Her childhood was steeped in Aussie TV shows like The Flying Doctors and Home and Away, planting the seed for what would later become a life-changing move.After training as a nurse in the UK and building a career in complex care and disability service, Vikki felt an irresistible pull to explore Australia firsthand. “We visited, fell in love with Adelaide and within weeks, we were applying to move,” she says with a smile. "We didn’t really tell many people — some of our family had only eight weeks to get used to the idea."Settling in Adelaide, Vikki began working with a local community nursing company. “Adelaide had everything — beaches, wineries, nature — and such a strong sense of community,” she says. Soon after, her family moved to Seaford Heights, watching their new neighbourhood rise around them from scrubland to suburbia.But Vikki’s journey into founding her own care business was born from her early years in and out of hospitals. “I saw the best of what care could look like,” she says, remembering the kindness and skill of nurses who made even the most difficult days bearable.That early experience laid the foundation for a career defined by compassion. In the UK, she led a team supporting people with complex health needs in their homes.Then came a turning point. Her son, Andrew, was born and later diagnosed with multiple conditions. “It floored me,” Vikki says. “Not just as a mum, but as a nurse — I missed the signs because of how well his other conditions masked them.”Navigating the NDIS system for her son was eye-opening — and frustrating. "Providers would show up, sit at the table, and do nothing. The focus was on what they could bill, not what my son needed." When Vikki herself was later diagnosed with MS, her understanding of the system deepened. “I realised this wasn’t just our story — this was happening to so many others.”And so, Evolving Pathways was born.“We’re about putting people first — asking them what they want, what their goals are, and then tailoring support around that,” she explains. The business name reflects the ethos: life is a journey, and care should evolve with it.Based in McLaren Vale, Evolving Pathways supports people with a wide range of needs — from children with intellectual disabilities to elderly clients wanting to stay independent at home. The team provides everything from in-home supports and community participation to allied health, counselling, nursing care and complex clinical services such as PEG feeding and tracheostomy management.But what sets the business apart isn’t just the services — it’s how they’re delivered.“We’re flexible. We go into homes. We fly to rural communities when someone wants to pass away at home. We train families and other carers. We even help people pursue personal goals — like getting out in the community, or joining Nippers at the beach,” Vikki says. “We’re not here to tick boxes. We’re here to walk alongside people.”The business has grown, but it remains deeply personal. Her team, many of whom have lived experience with disability or family members in care, share her passion.“Honestly, it’s the Fleurieu spirit,” she says. “People around here really look out for each other. We’ve had our team welcomed into communities with open arms. It’s beautiful to witness.”Despite the heavy workload, Vikki finds her joy in family time, patchworking and the occasional camping trip. “We used to just pack up and go get lost in nature. There’s something special about finding those secret spots no one else sees,” she says.Evolving Pathways continues to grow, grounded in a mission that’s both professional and personal. “When you’re dealing with someone’s health, their independence, their goals — it’s sacred. We’re not just supporting clients; we’re partnering with people on their life journey.”For those who’ve met Vikki, it’s clear — her pathway was always going to lead here.

Victor Harbor library will hold two session on AI to help those curious about Artificial Intelligence and how it’s shaping the world.The free 90 minute sessions, for ages 15+ to adult, will be held on Thursday 12 February at 11am and 2pm.The morning session is AI 101: Understanding the Basics, which aims to demystify AI and explore its impact on everyday life.It will cover key concepts; how machine learning and algorithms work; where it is used; and what the future holds.This session is designed to be accessible and is suitable for complete beginners and those who want to learn more.The afternoon session, AI in Action, will feature a hands on demonstration that explores how different AI platforms work.It will include smart assistants, image recognition and language tools.Find out more and register to attend either or both sessions via the library events page – AI 101 and AI in action.

McLaren Vale locals, business owners and community members are being invited to take part in the next Imagine McLaren Vale community conversation, with a second gathering planned for Monday 9 February.The session follows strong local engagement last year, when residents and businesses shared hundreds of ideas about what they value most about McLaren Vale — and what they hope to see protected or strengthened as the town grows and changes.Rather than starting again, organisers say the upcoming gathering will focus on reflecting back on those ideas and working together to shape a shared vision for the future.“McLaren Vale is a place many of us deeply love — its people, landscape, character and way of life,” says Amanda Atlee from the McLaren Vale Business & Tourism Association.“This conversation is about listening, finding common ground, and thinking together about how our town stays welcoming, connected and vibrant into the future.”The February session will:share key themes that emerged from the initial listening phaseexplore what people want McLaren Vale to feel like in the years aheadidentify priority focus areas for the communityinvite participants to get involved in small working groups to help progress ideasSince the first Imagine McLaren Vale gathering, several positive developments have already taken place, including:a commitment from Onkaparinga Council to upgrade Gemmel Tassie Reservenew conversations around heritage trails and local history walksstrong community participation in recent events such as the McLaren Vale Christmas Pageant and the Tour Down UnderThe session is open to anyone who cares about McLaren Vale, including residents, business owners, those working in tourism and hospitality, and people who simply enjoy spending time in the region.Event details📅 Monday 9 February 🕡 6:30–8:00pm 📍 McLaren Vale Visitor Information CentreFor those unable to attend in person, the community survey remains open and ideas can still be shared online.👉 RSVP or find out more: https://forms.gle/DLMbNnmLB2faawJW6👉 RSVP or find out more: https://forms.gle/DLMbNnmLB2faawJW6

The Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board is inviting the community to provide feedback on the draft Regional Landscape Plan, a roadmap for caring for the region’s natural and productive landscapes over the next five years. The plan sets out priorities, strategies, and practical actions to help local landscapes thrive, supporting healthy soil, waterways and nature for generations to come.Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board Chair David Greenhough says the new plan builds on progress made under the previous five-year plan.“Across the Hills and Fleurieu, land managers, community groups, and volunteers have worked tirelessly to improve soil health, protect biodiversity, and manage water responsibly. “Partnerships with First Nations have grown stronger, with cultural knowledge helping to guide how we care for Country. These efforts show the power of whole-of-community stewardship to help our landscapes flourish.“We’ve also faced challenges and will continue to do so. Bushfires, long dry spells, pest animals and weeds, and a marine algal bloom have tested the resilience of our ecosystems, farms and communities. “This plan focuses on practical, collaborative actions and adaptable strategies to meet future challenges and protect landscapes for generations to come,” he says.The draft plan reflects this work and the ideas shared by the community. It has been shaped through a thorough review of the previous plan and the insights gathered from a series of Landscape Conversations and a Yarning Circle with First Nations representatives held across the region last year.The plan continues to be built around five regional priorities - Land, Water, Nature, Community and Climate - along with the objectives, strategies and actions needed to achieve lasting and beneficial change.“From conserving natural places and ecosystems, to healthy and productive land and waterways, each priority is interconnected, and progress depends on working across all five together,” Mr Greenhough says.“We warmly invite anyone with an interest in the health of the region’s landscapes to review the draft plan and provide feedback. This is our region’s plan and we all have a role to play to turn it into action.” The draft Hills and Fleurieu Regional Landscape Plan 2026-2031 can be viewed and comments provided online. Public consultation closes on Friday 6 March.

As the final weekend of January kicks off, drivers are reminded to stay safe and alert on the roads this Saturday, January 31. Mobile speed cameras will be in operation across South Australia, targeting both regional routes and busy urban areas.With summer still in full swing and holidaymakers making the most of the weekend, police are continuing their statewide road safety efforts to reduce speeding and prevent crashes. Mobile speed detection units will be monitoring key locations to ensure drivers are sticking to speed limits and travelling responsibly.Whether you're heading to the beach, exploring the regions, or simply enjoying a weekend drive, remember to slow down and stay safe.A full list of mobile speed camera locations for Saturday, January 31, is available below.BAINS RD, ONKAPARINGA HILLSELIZABETH RD, CHRISTIE DOWNSGALLOWAY RD, O'SULLIVAN BEACHGORGE RD, ATHELSTONEGRAND JUNCTION RD, HOPE VALLEYGRANTS GULLY RD, CLARENDONKELLY RD, MODBURYMAIN SOUTH RD, HUNTFIELD HEIGHTSMARYVALE RD, ATHELSTONEMCKINNA RD, CHRISTIE DOWNSMEYER RD, LONSDALEMONTAGUE RD, MODBURYNORTH EAST RD, ST AGNESOLD SOUTH RD, OLD REYNELLAPENNEYS HILL RD, HACKHAMPOMPOOTA RD, MODBURYREYNELL RD, REYNELLA EASTSHEREBROOKE BVD, WOODCROFTSHERRIFFS RD, MORPHETT VALESHERRIFFS RD, REYNELLASHERRIFFS RD, LONSDALESIR JAMES HARDY WAY, WOODCROFTSMART RD, MODBURYSOUTHERN EXP, LONSDALESTRADBROKE RD, ATHELSTONECountry traffic camera locations now until February 8, 2026:ALBERT RD, MOUNT BARKERALEXANDRINA RD, CURRENCY CREEKALEXANDRINA RD, CURRENCY CREEKALEXANDRINA RD, FINNISSASHBOURNE RD, STRATHALBYNAUGUSTA HWY, WARNERTOWNAUGUSTA HWY, PORT WAKEFIELDAUGUSTA HWY, LOCHIELAUGUSTA HWY, REDHILLAUGUSTA HWY, SNOWTOWNAUGUSTA HWY, CRYSTAL BROOKBALHANNAH RD, HAHNDORFBARKER RD, MOUNT BARKERBARRIER HWY, HANSONBARRIER HWY, BURRABARUNGA GAP RD, SNOWTOWNBATTUNGA RD, ECHUNGABATTUNGA RD, MEADOWSCHARLES TCE, WALLAROOCHATFIELD TCE, WALLAROOCOPPER COAST HWY, PORT WAKEFIELDDASHWOOD GULLY RD, MEADOWSDRUIDS AVE, MOUNT BARKERFLAXLEY RD, MOUNT BARKERGOOLWA RD, CURRENCY CREEKGOYDER HWY, CRYSTAL BROOKGREENHILL RD, SUMMERTOWNGREY TCE, PORT PIRIEHORROCKS HWY, TARLEEHORROCKS HWY, RHYNIEHORROCKS HWY, AUBURNHUGHES ST, WALLAROOJUNCTION RD, LITTLEHAMPTONKADINA RD, WALLAROOLONG VALLEY RD, WISTOWLONG VALLEY RD, STRATHALBYNMAIN NORTH RD, CLAREMAIN RD, PORT PIRIEMARY ELIE ST, PORT PIRIEMOUNT BARKER RD, HAHNDORFNAIRNE RD, WOODSIDENEAGLES ROCK RD, CLAREONKAPARINGA VALLEY RD, WOODSIDEPRINCES HWY, LITTLEHAMPTONSENATE RD, PORT PIRIE WESTSOUTH TCE, STRATHALBYNVENABLES ST, MACCLESFIELDWANDEARAH RD, PORT PIRIE SOUTHWELLINGTON RD, MOUNT BARKERWELLINGTON RD, WISTOW

Writers’ groups, authors, community organisations, publishers and booksellers have joined together to organise a replacement for the cancelled Adelaide Writers’ Week.They have organised a range of events for readers and writers under a one-off umbrella festival, Constellations, to be held from 28 February to 5 March and are encouraging regional groups to hold their own events.“This festival will not replicate the programming of much-respected Adelaide Writers’ Week director Louise Adler,” says Adelaide author Jennifer Mills. “We won’t try to recreate the scale and feel of Adelaide Writers’ Week – we don’t have the time or resources for that. Instead, we are supporting decentralised, community-driven events. “This is a collective response to the frustration and disappointment felt by so many of us at the way this year’s Writers’ Week was lost. We want to create spaces where readers and writers can come together in a show of strength and solidarity.” The umbrella festival has been organised by a broad range of local representatives, including booksellers, publishers and authors, with not-for-profit industry body Writers SA acting as a central point of communication and logistics. It was initiated to show support for the writers and readers who withdrew from Adelaide Writers’ Week 2026 in protest at the previous Adelaide Festival board’s decision to cancel the appearance of Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah. The new board has subsequently apologised to Dr Abdel-Fattah and invited her to speak at Adelaide Writers’ Week 2027. “Adelaide Writers’ Week is a huge opportunity for writers – from bestselling international authors, to local debuts – to participate in fruitful discussions about their work, to meet readers and to sell their books,” according to Alisa Ahmed, managing editor at Hardie Grant Publishing. “Those authors are missing out on key financial and professional opportunities, which is particularly devastating for local authors.” Under the heading of Constellations, organisers are inviting bookshops, libraries, schools and other venues and community groups across the state to register events and get involved. Participants can organise an event independently, or the group is happy to play matchmaker, putting interested venues and authors in touch to coordinate details as needed. “We have been overwhelmed by the number of people offering their time, their expertise or their space to support this grassroots festival,” bookseller Annie Waters says. “Now that we are opening up the call to the wider community, we can't wait to see what kind of creative events will occur. We do ask that events have a registration page even if they are free so that they can be shared; that all writers involved are paid at ASA rates; and that the events are organised in the spirit of the festival: highlighting the importance of literary conversations in South Australia. Watch this space – or, better yet, be a part of it.” To find out more about getting involved in Constellations, follow these links:Guidelines for EventsEvent Involvement and Support FormDonations

Police are investigating a car fire at McLaren Vale which caused a grassfire.Just after 11pm, Thursday 29 January, a black Mercedes sedan parked on Chalk Hill Road, Mclaren Vale when it was set alight. The fire spread to nearby grassland.CFS crews quickly extinguished the blaze which caused extensive damage to the vehicle.Police established the car had been stolen from a Seaford Rise address earlier that evening.Crime Scene Investigation will be attending this morning to examine the scene.Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or suspicious activity in the area is asked to call Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 0000.27640 / 027667

Concerned locals have set up a Go Fund Me page to support Wildlife Welfare Org SA search out and care for wildlife affected by the Tooperang bushfire.The Goolwa-based charity has been working with other wildlife groups to access the fire ground near Mount Compass that occurred on Sunday 18 January.The fire burnt over 685 hectares including three homes, property, farmland and livestock.The South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) and National Parks firefighters continue to monitor the area.Mosquito Hill resident Rosalie Langley says she started the Go Fund Me page after talking to neighbours and local businesses about how they could all help. “Many of the animals will be suffering from burnt feet and smoke inhalation, and very sadly there will be some very heart breaking scenes as the wildlife organisations go about dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy,” she says.“I decided to fundraise this way for Wildlife Welfare Organisation (WWO), based in Goolwa, as they are our regional rescue and welfare organisation whose volunteers have already given up hours of time in order to search for any wildlife that may need help for weeks after this event.”Rosalie says WWO have reported that as the fire was relatively slow moving many animals were able to escape, but kangaroos have been badly affected and had to be euthanised.WWO cares for more than 1,200 native animals every year and answer more than 3,000 phone calls on its 24/7 rescue hotline. The small team at WWO is trained to rescue, rehabilitate and release native wildlife and cares for all animals including marsupials, reptiles, native birds and specialises in marine and seabirds.Anyone who wants to donate to the Go Fund Me effort can do so online. Rosalie suggests that another way to support WWO is to donate and shop or volunteer at its op shops in Goolwa and Victor Harbor.For more information on how to access assistance following the Tooperang bushfire, Alexandrina Council has compiled a list of Community Recovery Resources comprising health, business and finance, livestock and landcare.

The Flinders Legal Centre will offer free, confidential legal advice in Victor Harbor during two sessions in February.The service, operated by Flinders University, offers legal advice on a broad range of civil and commercial matters. This may include neighbourhood disputes, residential tenancies, debt recovery processes, contract disputes, property settlement, minor civil claims and more.The advice will be provided by law student interns under close supervision of qualified lawyers. The team will be in Victor Harbor on Wednesday 4 February and Wednesday 11 February.To request an appointment, complete a Flinders Legal Centre appointment enquiry form online. 

South Australia Police advises that it is currently experiencing technical difficulties receiving calls to the Police Assistance Line (131 444).  At this stage, the issue appears to be isolated to callers using the Vodafone mobile network.The matter is under urgent investigation, and SA Police is working with its partners to restore normal service as quickly as possible.Members of the community in South Australia who are unable to reach 131 444 are asked to:Use a landline or a mobile device on another network where possible; orIn an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).This issue does not affect calls to Triple Zero (000), which continues to operate normally.Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

Works to improve more than 30 South Australian wetlands and restore vital habitat are underway through a joint $17 million government program.The Shorebird and Wetland Habitat (SaWH) program will support sites across the Coorong, Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth – including the internationally recognised Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Ramsar wetland – as well as South East regions.Spanning 25 projects across 35 wetland sites and 120 kilometres of habitat, the program covers a diverse range of plants and animals in a region encompassing the Lower Murray River ecosystem – recently listed as critically endangered.The funding will help deliver new infrastructure for better water management, improve critical breeding habitat for foraging waterbirds and other threatened species, and strengthen weed control and protection of key species by reducing threats from feral foxes and cats and screening for pest fish.Examples of projects building on habitat restoration and resilience activities include:Mundoo Island Station acquisition: Located at an important ecological and cultural site at the Murray Mouth, the former cattle and sheep station will be transformed from a grazing property and added into an expanded Coorong National Park.Following the acquisition announced this month, the site will undergo significant wetland restoration and rehabilitation in an Ramsar listed area which supports dozens of migratory bird species. Protecting critical habitat of beach-nesting shorebirds and seabirds in the Coorong: Led by Birdlife Australia, the project will protect vulnerable fairy tern and eastern hooded plover breeding colonies at the Murray Mouth and along a 28-kilometre stretch of the Coorong Ocean Beach.Partnering with the Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Corporation, the team will install fencing and signage and engage the local community to give the birds every chance of a successful breeding season.Inlet upgrade at Butchers Lake: Led by the Limestone Coast Landscape Board, the project will replace the old regulator at Butchers Lake, south of Kingston, to improve water level management and increase water availability, creating sustainable foraging habitats.Enhancing habitat and hydrology in the Grey Creek Channel network on Kumarangk, Hindmarsh Island: Led by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board, covering 16 hectares of wetland habitat and an area of the Grey Creek Channel, the project will improve water flow with the removal of old crossings and reeds as well as the lowering of a ford to allow for the re-introduction of native threatened fish species.Improved connectivity to Hunters Creek will encourage visitation by waterbirds and provide habitat for aquatic plants, frogs and turtles.Mount Burr Swamp Habitat Restoration Reserve: Led by Nature Glenelg Trust, construction of a small, flow-regulating structure will expand the wetland habitat by up to 40 hectares and prevent mosquitofish from migrating into the restored environment and preying on the eggs and tadpoles of the vulnerable southern bell frog.Revegetation works in the reserve will establish fringing habitats for threatened birds, such as the Australasian bittern, and native species like the brolga.The South Australian Department for Environment and Water will work closely with local community groups, landholders and Landscape Boards to help plan and deliver the projects and ensure habitat restoration targeting smaller wetlands cumulatively have a large impact across each region.First Nations groups will also be consulted to connect to Country and meet cultural obligations while supporting the long-term future of healthy shorebird populations and wetland habitat.State Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Lucy Hood says:“The Coorong, Lower Lakes, Murray Mouth and South East regions are recognised globally for their biodiversity and wetlands of environmental significance.“This program will restore and create vital shorebird habitat, provide foraging and breeding environments for at-risk species and improve wetland ecosystems needed for the Murray-Darling Basin.“It builds on the projects already underway across our regions so they can become more resilient and continue to support the wildlife who calls them home.”The SaWH program is funded by the federal government and delivered by the state government.For a list of projects, visit the Department for Environment and Water - Shorebird and Wetland Habitat website.