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Asking R U OK?: The conversation that could save a life
Asking R U OK?: The conversation that could save a life

15 September 2024, 12:30 AM

Words: Laura DareAs R U OK? One local resident is on a mission to empower local communities to support each other through life's ups and downs. Matt Newlands, an R U OK? Community Ambassador from Aldinga Beach, knows firsthand the power of a simple conversation in turning someone's life around."It was really because of my community, a couple of close friends and supportive family that got me through a really challenging time," Matt says, reflecting on his mental health struggles. He left the police force in 2015 after a 10-year career, suffering PTSD and depression."I got out of the force in quite dramatic circumstances due to poor mental health at the time and I spent the first couple of years just trying to get myself well again.""There was a lot of stigma around mental health in the community, and certainly in the policing environment. I felt a cultural change was required."Now, as a Lived Experience Educator and counsellor for Frontline Mental Health, Matt is dedicated to breaking down those barriers and fostering a culture of openness and support, particularly for first responders.Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador. Photo supplied.The power of connection: why every conversation mattersMatt emphasises the profound impact that simple conversations can have on mental health and suicide prevention. "We're a pack animal, you know, we need to belong somewhere," he explains. "We know that the health impacts of long-term loneliness are significant. We know that people who feel isolated or disconnected from community, it's really harmful to both their physical and mental health."This sense of connection is particularly crucial in preventing suicide. As Matt puts it, "Having a close, connected community is the first step to suicide prevention." He shares from personal experience: "The power of those conversations... it kept me alive. It's keeping other people alive. It can't be understated."Importantly, you don't need to be a mental health professional to make a difference. The R U OK? four-step process provides a framework for anyone to have meaningful conversations:Ask R U OK? - Choose a private moment and ask directly if they're okay.Listen - "Listen with the intention to understand the person's challenge or concern, as opposed to listening to respond, which is often what we do as humans," Matt says.Encourage action - This can mean supporting your friend to seek professional help, but that’s not the only option. "Encouraging action can be about working out the things that you know best serve your wellbeing," Matt says. It could be as simple as returning to self-care strategies that have worked, like maintaining routine, social connections, diet, exercise and sleep.Check in - "That might be the next day, it could be the following week," Matt says. "It's just making sure that the person has options and a safe landing space where they can talk about them – remember this is a process, not a once-off."Matt stresses that often, just being there to listen can make a world of difference. "People tell us a lot what a huge impact it has when they have somewhere that they can bring some of their concerns and challenges – just say it out loud and be heard and valued."Remember, asking R U OK? might seem like a small thing, but as Matt reminds us, it can achieve massive results – like saving a life.The unique challenges of first respondersFirst responders include police, fire and ambulance as well as less well-known roles such as surf lifesavers and National Parks and Wildlife staff, “who were absolutely on the front line during the KI bushfires,” Matt says. The mental health challenges faced by all these groups can be immense. "Research suggests that an average human will experience one to maybe a handful of quite traumatic experiences throughout their lifetime," Matt says. "But over 20 years, a police officer will experience upwards of 800 traumatic experiences.”This stark reality underscores the need for specialised mental health support. "You can't really address that ongoing stress and trauma with a standardised employee assistance program," Matt says. "There needs to be a significant overhaul in how first responder organisations support and care for someone who's going through a difficult time."To address these unique challenges, R U OK? has launched the Are They Triple OK? campaign, focusing specifically on first responders. Matt, who hosts a podcast of the same name, says, “it’s about getting first responders who are confident to speak about some of their challenges, but more importantly, the things that worked for them.”It's one of several specialised R U OK? campaigns that have tailored resources on the website, plus podcasts: There’s We Need To Talk for the LGBTIQA+ community, and MobWay for First Nations people. Regional areas often have limited access to specialised mental health services, making community support even more crucial. "There's still significant challenges and barriers for the rural community in accessing professional support," Matt says – and telehealth isn’t necessarily as effective as face-to-face support.Isolation is another significant factor in regional SA – especially for some farming families. Matt says the Saturday footy game might be the only time of the week for that deeper connection with the community.But he says that, once they’re given the resources and information on suicide prevention, these communities are excellent at recognising the problem, rallying around and developing some community initiatives around solving it.R U OK? DayThis year's R U OK? Day was on 12 September. But Matt stresses that while R U OK? day is an important reminder of the campaign, “every day is a day to have these conversations, talk about the challenges and celebrate the successes." For more information about the R U OK? campaign, visit ruok.org.auFor 24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support, contact Lifeline at lifeline.org.au or 13 11 14.

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Meet the RSPCA Pets of the Week: Lola and Boomer
Meet the RSPCA Pets of the Week: Lola and Boomer

14 September 2024, 3:28 AM

This week, RSPCA South Australia is spotlighting two incredible dogs who are in search of their forever homes at the O’Halloran Hill animal care campus.Lola: The Sweet and Independent QueenMeet Lola, with animal ID 163273. This four-year-old Great Dane is as majestic as she is loving, and she’s patiently waiting to find her perfect match. With a heart as big as her stature, Lola is the kind of dog who will shower you with affection after a long day. Her favorite pastimes include cuddling and going on adventures that challenge her clever mind.Lola is looking for a peaceful home with adults or older children who can respect her need for space. Though she loves her humans, Lola values quiet moments to herself. She dreams of being the sole ruler of her castle, so she prefers a home without other pets. If you’re not yet ready to adopt, consider fostering this lovely lady while she awaits her forever family. To learn more about Lola or to meet her, visit her profile here.Boomer: The Energetic and Affectionate ExplorerBoomer, with animal ID 189680, is a one-year-old bundle of energy and joy who is eager to find a family to share his adventures with. This smart and affectionate boy has a zest for life and loves learning new tricks—he’s recently mastered “sit” and “drop,” and he’s more than happy to show them off!Boomer is full of excitement for what the world has to offer, and he’s searching for a home with adults and older children who can keep up with his energetic spirit. He’s sociable with other dogs and would be happy to share his home with a canine companion, but it’s important to bring your dog in for a meet and greet first. If you’re not ready to adopt just yet, Boomer is also available for foster. To learn more about Boomer or to meet him, visit his profile here.Both Lola and Boomer are ready to bring joy, loyalty, and plenty of love into their future homes. If you’re interested in adopting or fostering, please visit the RSPCA South Australia’s animal care campus at O’Halloran Hill.

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Southern Ocean Lodge among best hotels in the world
Southern Ocean Lodge among best hotels in the world

12 September 2024, 8:30 PM

Luxury Kangaroo Island accommodation Southern Ocean Lodge has been named the ‘Best in Oceania’ in the inaugural Telegraph Hotel Awards. The aspirational destination also ranked eighth in the 50 best hotels in the world, described as positioned magnificently on a clifftop overlooking the Southern Ocean and was praised for setting the ultimate standard for Australian luxury. Reopened in 2024 following the devastating Kangaroo Island bushfire of 2020, Southern Ocean Lodge ranked ahead of two other Australian hotels; The Calile Hotel in Brisbane which ranked #39 and Qualia on Hamilton Island which ranked #41.The remote retreat followed the likes of the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok, Thailand, Ballyfin in County Laois, Ireland, and Ellerman House in Cape Town, South Africa. The Telegraph’s ranking is determined from a collection of more than 10,000 hotel reviews globally, with contributions from hundreds of destination expert writers. A panel of 24 expert hotel reviewers then used their expertise, the reviews, and an analytical formula to rank the top hotels. The accolade follows Kangaroo Island ranking #2 by global travel authority, Lonely Planet, in its 2024 Top Regions Hotlist, recognising the region as a premier eco-tourism destination which offers distinct local produce, abundant native wildlife, natural experiences, and some of the nation’s most pristine beaches. Earlier this year, Stokes Bay, on the north coast of Kangaroo Island in South Australia, was named the second-best beach in the world.Tourism is a major employer on Kangaroo Island, with one in three jobs directly supported by tourism.Kangaroo Island attracts the highest international tourism spend of any region outside of Adelaide, with latest data showing international visitors contributed $35 million to Kangaroo Island’s visitor economy in the 12 months to March 2024. Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison has welcomed the accolade for Southern Ocean Lodge.“After almost four years in the planning, design and construction since it was razed in the 2020 bushfires, the new-look luxury accommodation on the south coast of one of South Australia’s most iconic destinations, has already got the attention of the world drawing visitors from around the globe and boosting the region’s international recovery even further. “Since the 2020 bushfires, through the hard work and resilience of local operators, residents and industry, tourism on Kangaroo Island has made a remarkable recovery.”

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Draft master plan for Penneshaw Harbour precinct
Draft master plan for Penneshaw Harbour precinct

10 September 2024, 8:30 PM

A draft master plan to inform future infrastructure priorities and support growth for the Penneshaw harbour precinct has been released for consultation.The harbour precinct serves as a hub of commercial, cultural and tourism activity. The draft Penneshaw Harbour Precinct Master Plan has been created to support economic growth in the Fleurieu Peninsula and on Kangaroo Island, and deliver improved essential transport services.The objectives of the proposed master plan are to create an integrated harbour precinct, which facilitates safe movement between the town centre and the ferry terminal. It aims to reduce conflicts between cars, trucks and pedestrians and to better define parking and waiting zones for ferry traffic.Place-making, safety, efficiency and accessibility are all embedded into the design to improve the experience for locals and visitors.This work aligns with the Kangaroo Island Ports Upgrade project and Sealink ferry upgrade works.Key elements and features of the draft master plan include:Harbour access and amenity upgrades, with improved safety and amenity for all users.Reconfigured car park and drop off areas.Reconfigured heavy vehicle marshalling area to add more freight waiting capacity.Wayfinding and signage, encouraging visitors to explore Penneshaw.Open space upgrades to encourage increased use.An infinity walking loop concept to encourage walking by enhancing existing facilities and providing safer intersections and crossing points.Traffic calming with kerb build-outs and coloured surface treatments to highlight the potential vehicle and pedestrian conflict points.Potential tourism development opportunities.The development of this draft plan aligns with the draft Cape Jervis Harbour Precinct Master Plan released in March 2024.Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Tom Koutsantonis says the Penneshaw harbour precinct is an important gateway to the tourism icon of Kangaroo Island. “It also provides primary access from the island to the rest of South Australia for people, vehicles, and freight.“With up to 50,000 passengers and 10,000 vehicles using the harbour every month, it’s vital that the precinct is efficient, accessible and welcoming, while also accommodating the diverse range of people who use the area.”Feedback is now being sought on the draft Penneshaw Harbour Precinct Master Plan prior to it being finalised. The community is invited to drop in to one of the community information sessions at the Penneshaw Town Hall to meet the project team, learn more about the Master Plan, ask questions and provide feedback. The sessions will be held on Friday 20 September from 4pm to 6pm and Saturday 21 September from 10am to 12noon.Feedback is open until Sunday 6 October. To provide feedback and register for updates visit the Department for Infrastructure and Transport website. 

VACSWIM programs offer water safety
VACSWIM programs offer water safety

09 September 2024, 9:01 PM

With warmer weather around the corner it’s time to think about teaching young people to swim and be safe in the water.Summer VACSWIM enrolments have opened and due to the popularity of local options, Finniss MP David Basham is encouraging early booking on the VACSWIM website. Administered by Surf Life Saving SA, VACSWIM equips children aged 3 to 12 with essential skills to thrive in the water.Through engaging lessons during the December and January school holidays, VACSWIM fosters:Water safety awareness.Confidence in the aquatic environment.Competency in swimming techniques.Essential personal survival skills.Understanding of basic aquatic emergency procedures.The sessions are held in four, five-day blocks from mid December.Mr Basham says the state government funds VACSWIM to provided subsidised water safety programs. “Established in the 1950s, VACSWIM has become a household name in South Australia. “Each year, the program engages thousands of pre and primary school aged children in locations across the state. “VACSWIM's vision is a reduction in the incidences of drowning amongst the younger generations.” “Each year it is a delight to see VACSWIM students and their families enjoying all the good things of this region and learning how to do so safely. “Last year nearly 900 young people learnt more about swimming and water safety at Goolwa, Victor Harbor and Pt Elliot with VACSWIM – I am very keen to see more children access this lifechanging program.”Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island locations for VACSWIM include:Aldinga BeachChitonGoolwa BeachFleurieu Aquatic CentreNormanville BeachPenneshaw BeachPort Elliot Port Noarlunga Strathalbyn Outdoor PoolVictor Harbor Primary School The Finniss Electorate office has printed copies of a flyer with local options available and can offer assistance booking or finding locations on the south coast. Visit the VACSWIM website for more information.    

Pennington Bay upgrade delayed
Pennington Bay upgrade delayed

09 September 2024, 2:39 AM

The Kangaroo Island Council has acknowledged ongoing construction delays at Pennington Bay in an update to the community.It attributes the delays to unforeseen construction issues, which have temporarily halted the project. Chief Executive Officer Daryl Buckingham says the council is actively addressing these challenges to ensure a successful outcome.“We understand the frustration that these delays are causing and are fully committed to resolving the issues as quickly as possible. “Our team is working diligently to pinpoint the root causes and implement effective solutions. The success of this project is of utmost importance to us.”The council says it is cognisant of the expected increase in visitor numbers to the popular site as the warmer months approach, with s safety and long-term sustainability its top priorities.Mayor Michael Pengilly says the Kangaroo Island Council sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused by the delays.“We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding during this period. We are collaborating closely with adjoining property owners to establish an alternative pathway, ensuring that visitors can access the site safely while we work on the final product. “Our goal is to deliver a high-quality and sustainable solution for everyone to enjoy.The $2.17 million upgrade of Penneshaw’s foreshore along Hog Bay Beach and Frenchmans Terrace was expected to be completed by Spring 2025. The council has yet to announce a revised timetable but says it we recognises the need for transparency and accountability.“As we address these challenges, we acknowledge that mistakes have been made and are actively rectifying these. We are committed to learning from this experience and ensuring a positive outcome for all.”

Victor electoral review to focus on wards
Victor electoral review to focus on wards

08 September 2024, 8:30 PM

City of Victor Harbor will revisit the question of electoral wards for council elections in a three-week public consultation exercise.The Local Government Act requires councils to conduct a representation review at least every eight years, examining issues such as the number of councillors, direct election of a mayor and ward structures.In the last review, held eight years ago, the majority of public submissions favoured a ward system.However the council of the day determined that wards would be too difficult to implement in Victor Harbor.Alexandrina Council has four wards - Alexandrina North, Alexandrina South and Alexandrina West – each returning three councillors; and a directly elected mayor.District Council of Yankalilla has two wards – urban Light returning five councillors and Rural Field returning four councillors – with the mayor elected from within.The current Victor Harbor consultation process will include information sessions on the pros and cons of a ward system, from the perspective of the council.This will include listening posts at Victor Central Shopping Centre on Thursday 12 September from 10am to 1pm and at Victor Harbor Farmers Market on Saturday 14 September from 8am to 12.30pm.Feedback can be given in person at these events or at the Civic Centre on Bay Road, or submitted online. All feedback must be lodged by the deadline of 5pm on Thursday 26 September.The results will feed into a formal representation review, with recommendations made to the council for determination.Any changes arising from the representation review would take effect after the 2026 local government election.

Stitching sustainability into the fabric of the Fleurieu
Stitching sustainability into the fabric of the Fleurieu

08 September 2024, 2:49 AM

Words: Laura DareIn a world of fast fashion, Megan Caldersmith is hitting the brakes. As the owner of McLaren Vale’s She Sews and the mastermind behind the region's first Recycled Runway event, Megan shows that style and sustainability are a winning combination.Megan grew up in a family of skilled sewers. "My grandmother taught me when I was about five," she says. "She was a tailor, and my mum was an incredible sewer." This early exposure to sewing laid the foundation for her career in fashion. After starting a Bachelor of Fine Art, Megan realised she wanted a more commercial path and pursued an Associate Diploma of Fashion at TAFE SA. Then, with her best friend and business partner Nicky Atkinson, she bought and revitalised a rundown bridal business called Betrothed in Norwood, which they ran for 12 years. "Doing custom wedding gowns was my number one passion and what I absolutely love doing," she says.Megan and her husband, a winemaker, moved to the Fleurieu Peninsula 10 years ago, drawn by its natural beauty and vibrant community. "We love it so much. We will never leave," she says. "It has absolutely everything – beach, wineries, it's semi-rural. We can walk everywhere or ride our bikes."Megan has immersed herself in the local McLaren Vale community. She is an active member of the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association and organises the annual Christmas pageant. "We’ve always lived where we work," she says. "We like living right in the heart of our community." At She Sews, Megan offers a range of services that showcase her 25 years of experience in the fashion industry. "I just love sewing – in whatever form it takes," she says. Her business specialises in made-to-measure bridal and evening wear, expert alterations and specialty tailoring. From creating custom wedding gowns to altering school uniforms, she breathes new life into garments of all kinds – ensuring fewer textiles end up in landfill.One of her passions is working with vintage wedding dresses. "I do a lot of altering for brides of their mother's wedding dresses. Recently, the trend of wearing that as a second dress has become popular. That's one of my favourite things to do." This blend of old and new perfectly encapsulates Megan's approach to fashion – honouring the past while embracing sustainable practices for the future.Megan's commitment to sustainability extends beyond her day-to-day work at She Sews. This year, with the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association and the City of Onkaparinga, she organised the first Recycled Runway McLaren Vale event, which was a massive success. The event challenged participants to create wearable garments from pre-loved clothing. "People paid, registered their interest, and came to She Sews to pick up a bag of five pre-loved garments," Megan says. "They had about six weeks to come up with a wearable garment, and then they paraded them on the catwalk "The event, in which competitors of all ages and sizes showed off their creations at Wirra Wirra Winery, was a huge hit, with 67 registrations, 42 final entries and a sell-out crowd. More importantly, it sparked conversations about sustainable fashion in the community. "I had customers coming in to my shop telling me they had had no idea about the environmental toll of fast fashion, no idea about people working in the industry being underpaid, and that they were going to change their spending habits," Megan says. “Australia's the number one polluter per capita in the world at the moment when it comes to fashion. All that landfill – it’s so depressing. We’re ruining the natural world with what we’re doing right now, but we have an opportunity to stop that.” “I just feel like instead of being overwhelmed, I can do something that makes me sleep at night and perhaps changes some people's views, and surely that's better than nothing.”Building on this success, Megan is already planning next year's Recycled Runway, which will include a category for wearable art or costuming. "Textile art and recycling have always been passions of mine. I love vintage, I love history, and I'm really sentimental. I'm just really enjoying the recycling and upcycling at the moment, but that naturally leads into wearable art and textiles. They're all linked.” She Sews also hosted Recycled Rumble events held over two weekends in June and July to promote circular fashion. People could sell their preloved fashion for a commission, or buy vintage to refresh their wardrobe. The Friday night openings were community parties, featuring a DJ, wine and food. “Then I was open all day Saturday and Sunday both those weekends where people can just come and shop pre-loved garments," Megan says. The Recycled Rumble aims to provide affordable, stylish options for the local community while promoting sustainable fashion.For those looking to make more sustainable fashion choices, Megan offers practical advice. "I would have a look at what's available and what you think you'll wear over and over again," she suggests. "Even if it's a pair of jeans, instead of buying four pairs of jeans just buy one and wear them all the time and cherish them."She also advocates for investing in quality pieces and considering pre-loved options. "Go and spend money on pieces that you will wear a lot and then buy pre-loved to wear with them," she says. "I would really use the word considered – make considered purchasing decisions." "Just make some small changes," she says. "You don't have to change the world. You just need to change some habits and consider what's in your wardrobe." As Megan begins planning Recycled Runway MV 2025, she's excited about the potential for sustainable fashion in the region. With She Sews as a hub for custom creations and alterations, and events like Recycled Runway inspiring the community, Megan is stitching together a future where fashion and sustainability go hand in hand.Find out more about Megan Caldersmith at shesews.com.au or follow recycledrunwaymv on Instagram and Facebook.

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