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Service Awards for Alexandrina staff
Service Awards for Alexandrina staff

25 February 2026, 8:11 PM

Alexandrina Council presented Local Government Service Awards to 21 employees last week, including its longest-serving employee, Allan Pomery, who has worked for the council for 45 years.Thelma Vivian was also recognised for 30 years of service with Alexandrina Libraries.Local Government Service Awards are long-service recognition awards that acknowledge individuals’ contributions to local government across South Australia, including council employees and elected councillors. They are part of the LGA SA’s broader Local Government Awards program.“In the case of Allan and Thelma, the long service has been accrued at Alexandrina or pre-amalgamation councils, which is an extraordinary feat,” says Alexandrina Chief Executive Officer Andrew MacDonald.“Allan has detailed knowledge of our area, which is invaluable to council and our community and his dedication to Council and community is unparalleled.“Thelma is a much-loved and respected member of the Library and wider Alexandrina Team, and she is a passionate advocate for the positive impact Libraries have on our community.“To all our employees who have received long service awards, I pass on my congratulations.“These awards celebrate dedication, knowledge and contribution to local communities through the local government sector.”Local Government Service Awards were also presented to:• Colin Shackleford and Kerry Abbott (25 years).• Stacey Bateson, James Horwood and Mark Hicks (20 years).• Lachlan Miller, Deb Gregory, Lianda Deans and Julie Payne (15 years).• Travis Griffen, Gary Lyons, Cheryl Ludgate, Doug Jones, Kylie Markow, Anna Schmidt, Andrew Rodda, David Heath, Shannon Hirniak and Braden Wray (10 years).Alexandrina Asset Inspector Allan Pomery, from Port Elliot, began working with the District Council of Port Elliot and Goolwa in 1980 as a garbage truck driver.Allan has held many roles with the council over the ensuing decades including signage,graffiti removal, machinery operator and undertaking corella control.Outside of his service to Alexandrina Council, Allan has been captain of the Port Elliot CFS Brigade and has volunteered his firefighting services both locally and interstate as required for many years.Thelma Vivian began working as a trainee at the District Council of Port Elliot and Goolwa in 1995.During her 30 years of service, she has dedicated her career to the important role libraries play in the community and to individuals, offering learning through imagination and information and positively impacting their lives.Thelma’s current role includes the maintenance of the Alexandrina Libraries collections, training library staff and volunteers as well as delivering the Little Rock ‘n’ Read program.

Council calls for stronger e-bike laws
Council calls for stronger e-bike laws

24 February 2026, 2:08 AM

The City of Onkaparinga has unanimously resolved to advocate for stronger state regulation of electric bikes and personal mobility devices (PMDs), following growing community concern about safety on the Esplanade and shared pathways across the region.At the 17 February council meeting, elected members supported a motion from Cr Gretel Wilkes acknowledging concerns raised by residents and shared-path users about safety risks associated with both compliant and non-compliant devices operating in pedestrian-focused environments.The council will now formally write to the state government, SAPOL and the Local Government Association of South Australia seeking stronger regulatory controls and clearer enforcement mechanisms.Mayor Moira Were says the council’s position is about improving safety while recognising the growing role of e-mobility in the transport mix.“We recognise that e-bikes and personal mobility devices are becoming more common and can play a positive role in active and sustainable transport,” she says.“However, we’re hearing increasing concerns from residents about excessive speeds, near misses and the presence of high-powered devices in areas heavily used by children, older people and people with disability.“Our advocacy is focused on ensuring the regulatory framework keeps pace with technology and prioritises community safety.”The council is asking for:Stronger regulatory controls for e-bikes, and PMDs capable of travelling above 10km/ in pedestrian environments.Enforceable speed management mechanisms.Consideration of device identification and/or registration requirementsclearer regulatory definitions and stronger importation controls to prevent illegal high-powered devices entering the market.Advice on current enforcement strategies and their practical limitations.Consideration of enhanced enforcement tools, including portable motor testing technology used in other jurisdictions.The council has expressed concern that the current framework permits PMD use in pedestrian-heavy environments while not requiring rider licensing, registration or mandatory device identification, which can limit effective enforcement.In addition to formal advocacy, the council will:Initiate a community conversation involving experts, relevant agencies and user groups.Consider installing signage on high-risk shared paths.Seek to contribute to any current or future state-wide review of PMD and e-bike regulations.Produce a further report outlining the legislative changes that permitted PMDs on footpaths and shared paths, enabling it to consider whether to oppose aspects of the framework in high-use and high-risk locations.Mayor Were says the motion reflects a balanced and proactive approach.“This is about starting a constructive conversation and working with the state government and enforcement agencies to ensure shared paths remain safe and welcoming for everyone.”

Digging deep for Deep Creek
Digging deep for Deep Creek

23 February 2026, 7:33 PM

Native plants and animals impacted by the Deep Creek National Park bushfire are set to bounce back under a dedicated fund launched last week.The Wildlife Recovery Fund – established in partnership with the Nature Foundation – is now open, enabling South Australians to contribute and give endangered species like the southern emu-wren the best chance of recovery in the region.It comes as sections of the park have reopened, providing public access to Stringybark Campground and nearby walking tracks, Boat Harbour Beach and some accommodation sites. Other impacted areas will remain closed until further notice.The state government has worked closely with Yankalilla Council to establish a Local Recovery Committee to identify and manage local issues and provide updates. Action is also underway to support the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board and landholders to undertake vital recovery work on the ground.There will also be a benefit concert at Wirrina Holiday Park on Sunday 1 March. The family-friendly music and camping festival will run from 10am to 10pm and will feature markets and activities to raise funds for the community and wildlife affected by the Deep Creek fire. Tickets are $25 via Trybooking. The Wildlife Recovery Fund will help deliver projects that support the restoration of key habitats destroyed in the Fleurieu Peninsula fire, which saw more than 200 CFS volunteers, DEW personnel and interstate crews tackle the week-long blaze.Deep Creek National Park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna including short beaked echidnas, western grey kangaroos and 100 species of birds.Firefighters worked tirelessly to save native species’ habitat, conducting backburning in key areas and targeted aerial responses to mitigate the fire’s spread. These efforts limited the burnt area to 4,500 hectares, comprising about 40 per cent of Deep Creek National Park and nearly all of Talisker Conservation Park.Initial assessments of fire-affected biodiversity have found:About half of the endangered southern emu-wren and western beautiful firetail’s habitat impacted.Around 40 per cent of the southern brown bandicoot’s park habitat affected.Populations of bassian thrush, yellow-bellied water skinks, flame sedge-skipper butterflies and Kangaroo Island spider orchid affected.Funds raised will be used for immediate works – such as fence repair and weed control – along with monitoring and research to understand the long-term effects of the fire. Department for Environment and Water Conservation and Wildlife Director Lisien Loan says South Australians respond generously in the aftermath of bushfires and money raised through the Wildlife Recovery Fund is vital for restoration efforts.“The fund will be used to re-establish habitat for wildlife, particularly threatened and vulnerable species, and support scientific research to guide our future responses.”Nature Foundation Chair Jan Ferguson OAM says Deep Creek and the surrounding areas are of great importance for South Australian biodiversity, serving as a haven for native flora and fauna.“Deep Creek also holds a deep affinity for people, allowing them to experience and connect with nature.“All donations have a real impact on the recovery of fire-affected landscapes, ecosystems and species.”The Wildlife Recovery Fund raised more than $450,000 after the devastating 2019-20 fires across the Adelaide Hills, Kangaroo Island, Eyre Peninsula and South East.Grants between $1,000 and $50,000 were distributed to 20 recovery projects, including species relocation, monitoring programs and pest animal and plant control.To support Deep Creek’s recovery and contribute to the Wildlife Recovery Fund, visit the website. 

Corella management trials for Strath
Corella management trials for Strath

22 February 2026, 7:48 PM

Rising concerns about Little Corella flocks causing damage across the region has prompted Alexandrina Council to trial a new management tool in Strathalbyn.The ‘flock reflectors’ use movement and light to help deter birds from settling in specific locations.Over summer they have been installed in Strathalbyn as part of a seasonal trial and will be monitored over time.The council says its Field Services Team works proactively to reduce damage and nuisance while balancing responsible wildlife management.“Council officers are currently observing three separate flocks in Goolwa, including a ‘super flock’ estimated at approximately 15,000 birds. “In Strathalbyn, a flock of around 12,000 birds is present, with several smaller flocks across other townships.“Birds are also being recorded in areas where they have not typically congregated in previous years. “The scale of turf damage, tree impact and public space disruption this season is greater than our teams have experienced in recent years.”Some in the community have questioned the effectiveness of the flock reflectors, commenting on social media that the birds have been seen playing on them.The council says Corella management requires a combination of strategies, which may include drone dispersal, laser and revolving lights, and other deterrents. “No single method provides a complete solution, so Council uses a coordinated and responsive approach to minimise impacts across our townships.”“Council will continue to work with the Department for Environment and Water on other methods of localised abundant species management through the recently introduced Biodiversity Act 2025.“Council continues to advocate to the State Government for a coordinated, state-wide management plan to address the broader impacts of Little Corellas.”More details about Alexandrina Council’s approach to Corella management can be found on its website. 

Lights, Camera, Fleurieu
Lights, Camera, Fleurieu

22 February 2026, 2:00 AM

Words: Susie Williams. Thanks to Coast Lines magazine.As summer lingers on the Fleurieu Peninsula and long evenings invite us outdoors, one of the region’s most loved cultural events is preparing to roll out the red carpet once again. The Fleurieu Film Festival returns in February for its 10th year, bringing with it stories that stir, surprise and connect — all set against the backdrop of McLaren Vale’s vineyards, food and creative spirit.Over the past decade, the Festival has grown into far more than a film screening. It has become a celebration of place, creativity and community, championing local filmmakers while welcoming audiences from across South Australia and beyond. This milestone year marks not only a celebration of storytelling, but also a new chapter for the Festival itself.Photo provided: Kristen HamillAfter seven years guiding the Festival’s growth, outgoing Director Carolyn Corkindale steps back from the role, leaving behind a legacy built on nurturing early-career filmmakers and strengthening the Festival’s connection to the Fleurieu. While no longer in the director’s chair, Carolyn remains closely involved as a valued member of the Festival Board, continuing to support the event she helped shape.Stepping into the role of Festival Director is Kristen Hamill, a familiar name within South Australia’s creative scene. With more than a decade of experience across festivals, events, marketing and production, Kristen brings both professional depth and a genuine passion for storytelling. Many will recognise her as the founder of the Adelaide 48 Hour Film Project, which she established in 2015 and which now attracts more than 600 participants each year. As a producer and editor, she has worked across award-winning short films, documentaries and web series, and her connection to the Fleurieu Film Festival already runs deep, having served on the Board since 2022.Alongside Kristen, experienced board director and award-winning short film producer Lisa Bishop has been appointed Chairperson. With a background spanning leadership, governance and creative production, Lisa says the Festival is entering an exciting new phase as it begins delivering a new strategic vision for the years ahead.For Kristen, the heart of the Festival lies in its ability to celebrate creativity while staying deeply connected to place. The Fleurieu Film Festival has always been about more than films alone — it’s about storytelling that reflects who we are, where we live and how we see the world. That dual focus on creativity and the Fleurieu landscape continues to shape the Festival’s future.This year’s program reflects that philosophy, with finalists announced across a diverse range of categories showcasing the depth of talent emerging from South Australia and beyond. From sound design and original score through to cinematography, directing, editing and scriptwriting, the shortlisted films highlight the craftsmanship that goes into short-form storytelling. There’s also a strong focus on the next generation, with a dedicated category for South Australian high school short films, alongside documentary storytelling and the much-loved Focus on the Fleurieu Award, celebrating films that capture the essence of the region.But the Fleurieu Film Festival experience extends well beyond what happens on screen. In 2026, audiences can look forward to an even more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, with new elements designed to invite people to linger, connect and enjoy the evening together.For the first time, the Festival will feature a dedicated early-evening family program from 4.30 to 6.30pm, offering films suitable for younger audiences alongside live music and face painting. It’s an opportunity for families to experience the magic of film in an accessible, welcoming environment before the evening screenings begin.Photo provided: Kristen Hamill and Carolyn CorkindaleAnother exciting addition is the Festival’s inaugural Education Hub, providing information and connections to educational providers and creative pathways. Designed to inspire and inform, the Hub reflects the Festival’s ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and opening doors for future filmmakers.Of course, no Fleurieu gathering would be complete without a nod to the region’s food and wine. Guests will be able to enjoy complimentary wine tastings from McLaren Vale winery Brash Higgins Wine, adding another layer to the sensory experience of the night and reinforcing the Festival’s strong ties to local producers.As the sun sets over the vines and stories unfold on screen, the Fleurieu Film Festival offers a reminder of why this region continues to attract creatives, audiences and dreamers alike. It’s a celebration of storytelling in all its forms — grounded in community, shaped by landscape and shared under the open sky.The 10th annual Fleurieu Film Festival will be held at the McLaren Vale Visitor Centre on Saturday, 7 February 2026. Tickets are on sale now, with locals and visitors invited to be part of this milestone celebration of film, creativity and the Fleurieu way of life.Congratulations to all the 2026 award winners across a diverse range of categories:Best High School Film - james is deadBest Production Design – Hypothetically, the EndBest Sound Design – Wishes: Windows & NestsBest Score – The Spaces BetweenBest Actor – Nat Luna, in Hypothetically, the EndBest Script – A Million LivesBest Editing – The Spaces BetweenBest Cinematography – I’d Do AnythingBest Directing – Hypothetically, the EndBest Young Filmmaker Under 24 – Anisa Raisi for I’d Do AnythingFocus on the Fleurieu Award – Rapid BAY - The Town That WasBest International Short Film – Adas FalasteenBest Documentary – The Spaces BetweenThe Audience Choice Award - Let's Live for TonightBest Film – Wishes: Windows & Nests

Adelaide Fringe to take over Victor
Adelaide Fringe to take over Victor

21 February 2026, 9:14 PM

Victa Cinema will host its first Adelaide Fringe Festival Takeover on March 7-8, bringing comedy, theatre, local talent and international film to the heritage cinema.The two-day festival is supported by the Fringe Fund, which fosters arts engagement, and festival experience across the state, helping to bring a genuine Fringe experience to the Fleurieu Peninsula.The program features a mix of live performances, thought-provoking film, and world-class storytelling, making festival entertainment more accessible for southern regional audiences.“We’re incredibly excited to bring this line‑up to Victa Cinema for locals to enjoy,” says Jarrad Jenkins, Coordinator at Victa Cinema.“It’s a chance for our community to enjoy world-class performances locally, while also showcasing the creativity and cultural vibrancy of Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula.”The weekend kicks off with Open[ing] Mic on Saturday morning, a welcoming, community-centered session where local performers, emerging artists, musicians, poets, and comedians take the stage to launch the Fringe weekend.Adelaide Fringe favourite Gordon Southern brings two hit comedy shows: Great Southern Man, a fast-paced, witty show with sharp cultural insight, and A Brief History of History, a hilarious journey through time blending storytelling with Fringe inventiveness.Railway Bob offers a heartfelt, family-friendly theatre performance exploring history, resilience, and Australian storytelling.The festival also features a curated selection from the SAGA International Women’s Film Festival, showcasing globally recognised films by women directors. Full program and ticketing information on the Fringe Festival Takeover is available now on the Victa Cinema website. The Takeover is just a taste of Fringe on the Fleurieu, with music, comedy and theatre events across the region. Visit the Adelaide fringe website for details.

Stronger standards set for Retirement Villages
Stronger standards set for Retirement Villages

18 February 2026, 7:36 PM

With retirement living development burgeoning on the Fleurieu, new retirement village laws came into effect this month, introducing strengthened consumer protections for both residents and operators. The Retirement Villages (Miscellaneous) Amendment Act 2024 delivers clearer rights and responsibilities for residents and prospective residents, and provides more consistent, practical guidance for operators across the sector, according to the state government. It says residents will benefit from greater transparency, fairer processes and improved access to information, supported by strengthened compliance and monitoring measures designed to lift standards and ensure better outcomes across the retirement village experience. Additional consumer protections for current retirement village residents include:Caps on some fees, including the amount that can be deducted from a resident’s exit entitlement as a contribution towards a capital fund, and increases to recurrent charges in some circumstances.A reduction of the maximum time for the repayment of exit fees (from 18 months to 12 months + 30 days). Key changes include:Better transparency in contracts and disclosure statements for prospective residents.Enhanced codes of conduct for retirement village operators, staff, and residents.Stronger emergency planning and safety standards.Updated and strengthened processes for consultation with residents and dispute resolutionClearer guidelines for making changes to residence rules. Daniel Gannon is Executive Director of the Retirement Living Council of Australia. “These reforms bring retirement village laws into line with what residents expect – clearer information, stronger protections and greater confidence when making significant life decisions,” he says. “The Retirement Living Council has worked closely with the Office for Ageing Well to strike the right balance – strengthening consumer protections while ensuring retirement villages remain great places to live and operate.”As of 2 February, prospective residents will also benefit from the new Retirement Villages Register, which allows them to easily search for retirement villages by location and access key information about each village. The Register provides details such as village size, contract types, and other essential features, helping older South Australians make more informed decisions when considering a move into a retirement village. Residents, potential residents and operators can gain information and resources about the changes online.   

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