Speaking as she unpacks boxes from her recent move to McLaren Vale from Silver Sands, Fleurieu App director Susie Williams cannot hide her excitement about shining a light on the region's stories, businesses, events and people through the app, which has now marked three months of operation.

“There are so many hidden treasures here, and I am so lucky that I get to showcase them,” says Susie.

The Fleurieu App is a free service connecting locals and visitors with local news, information, things to do, jobs, and more via their smartphone or tablet.

In its first three months, there have been almost 2,000 downloads and 85,000 page views. The app is opened on average 900 times per week.

Businesses and organisations can purchase banner advertising on the app (and the new website, www.fleurieuapp.com) as well as business listings. Not for profits receive free listings. 

One of the highlights of the Fleurieu App journey so far has been being named a finalist in the 2019 McLaren Vale Business Awards.

“It was a shock, but fantastic to be named among some outstanding businesses, especially in our first three months of operation,” Susie says.

Originally from Buckleboo on the Eyre Peninsula, Susie has had a varied career including roles as a photographer, tour guide, viticulture consultant, and, of course, app director.

Susie worked for a successful app in Marlborough, New Zealand, and realised the Fleurieu was similarly ripe for an app to support its passionate locals and many visitors.

When she and her family moved back to the Fleurieu, Susie wasted no time in setting up this passion project.

The team welcomes suggestions about what users would like on the app. 

“We want your feedback, story ideas, and event listings,” Susie says. 

“We currently have a Christmas Lights Button, and encourage you to register your street for Christmas light displays and follow the Christmas lights trail."

It's free to register your lights and to download the app (from Google Play or the App Store).

Please email [email protected] with any feedback, story ideas and sales enquiries.