People signing up for their first library membership this month could be double winners at Aldinga and Willunga libraries.As well as gaining free access to all the resources of Onkaparinga Libraries, they can spin a prize wheel for a chance to win a bonus gift.Aldinga Library is located in Aldinga Beach, next to the Aldinga Shopping Centre and the Recreation Centre. It opens Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 9.30am to 5pm, Thursday 9.30am to 7pm and Saturday 10am to 1pm.Willunga Library is on the corner of High Street and St Peters Terrace in the Willunga township. It opens Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm and Sunday 2pm to 5pm.Both libraries offer Wi-Fi access, computers, printing and scanning, as well as a full range of adult and children's fiction, non-fiction books and audiobooks. CD,s, DVDs, Blu-rays and magazines.Find out about the resources available and school holiday programs on offer by visiting the web pages of Aldinga library and Willunga library.

Shadow Environment Minister and Finniss MP David Basham wants licence fee relief for fisherman struggling to stay in business while a toxic algal bloom continues to sweep the state’s coastline.Mr Basham says the state government has failed to adequately acknowledge the challenges faced by regional communities, including fishers and other industry whose livelihoods are reliant on healthy waters.“It’s disappointing that people in the aquaculture and fishing industries are now being slammed with licence fee increases that many can’t afford to shoulder.“If the Minister for the Environment, Susan Close thinks those struggling fishing businesses can get insurance coverage for ‘Acts of God’, then I suggest she let them know which insurer to go to because I doubt there is one.“Meanwhile, the Minister is inferring that fishers should have insured against risks like the algal bloom which was completely unforeseeable.”Last year, South Australia’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors produced more than 72,000 tonnes of seafood, worth more than $478 million in production value.Mr Basham says neglecting the impact of the algal bloom could have a costly flow on effect to all consumers who may pay more for seafood, at a time when the cost of living is already a challenge for most people. “Our aquaculture and fishing sector is a critical industry that must be supported, otherwise all South Australians will pay a high price. This will be especially felt in our regional communities where most of the seafood industry is located as it affects employment in these towns, as well as tourism in the regions.”The Karenia mikimotoi species of algae, first detected on the Fleurieu Peninsula in March, is now affecting metropolitan beaches.There have been multiple reports of fish deaths along the metropolitan coastline – North Haven between the river mouth and marina breakwater, Tennyson Beach, north of Grange jetty and south of Christies Beach Surf Life Saving Club – and Port Broughton after the June 24 storm.The algal bloom has caused discoloured water and foam along parts of the state’s coasts and has affected various marine wildlife, including fish, sharks, rays, and a wide range of invertebrates.Karenia mikimotoi does not cause long-term harmful effects in humans but exposure to discoloured or foamy water can cause short-term skin or eye irritation and respiratory symptoms, including coughing or shortness of breath.The state government says the bloom occurs naturally and nothing can be done to dilute or dissipate it. Experts believe there are three plausible contributing factors causing the bloom:• A marine heatwave that started in September 2024 – with sea temperatures about 2.5°C warmer than usual – combined with calm conditions, light winds and small swells.• The 2022-23 River Murray flood washing extra nutrients into the sea.• An unprecedented cold-water upwelling in summer 2023-24 that has brought nutrient-rich water to the surface.It had been hoped that cooler weather and winter storms would break up and disperse the algal bloom, but it has spread further, with no indication of when the marine crisis might end.Acting Premier Susan Close says a cross government working group including SA Health, PIRSA, EPA, SARDI and DEW has been meeting weekly for the last several months to monitor the bloom and to begin preparations for interventions to assist recovery. "State Government agencies are working together to monitor the algal bloom and provide updates and information to the public, as well as to businesses impacted by the bloom. "The algal bloom is a dynamic situation. Its movement depends on weather and water conditions, and therefore makes the effect on people and wildlife unpredictable." 

A shed built on heart and historyCelebrating the legacy and future of the Victor Harbor Men’s ShedWords Susie Williams - Thanks to Coast Lines magazineWhat began as a quiet concern among a group of quilting women at the Adare Uniting Church has grown into one of Victor Harbor’s most enduring and beloved community organisations — the Victor Harbor Men’s Shed.On 11 April 2025, members and supporters gathered to celebrate the official launch of a remarkable written history of the Shed. The publication chronicles a journey that began more than a decade ago, but is deeply rooted in the region’s long-standing commitment to social inclusion, volunteerism and practical support for those in need.The idea for a local men’s shed was first raised in 2010 during a study group at the church, prompted by recognition of a growing need: men experiencing social isolation, the grief of losing partners and the challenges of retirement were quietly struggling. Quilter Rhonda Richardson simply asked, “Why don’t you get a shed of your own?” That idea struck a chord. By the following year, a working group of five — Dennis Williams, Dean Wickham, Leon Parsons, Christopher Wright and Ross Ford — had formed to make the dream a reality.With limited resources but plenty of enthusiasm, the fledgling group approached the Encounter Centre for use of its workshop space one day a week. This arrangement provided a valuable foundation, but it soon became clear that a dedicated space was needed. A long campaign followed — involving grants, community donations and countless hours of planning — and in 2018, the Victor Harbor Men’s Shed opened the doors to its own purpose-built facility in Martha Close.But the story of the Victor Harbor Men’s Shed didn’t begin in 2011. As the new publication reveals, its roots stretch back to the 1970s when local clergy and volunteers first began supporting people living with mental illness and disability, many of whom were moved from institutions in Adelaide to guest houses in Victor Harbor. Leading this work was Reverend Bill Johnson, whose vision for a drop-in centre evolved into the Encounter Craft & Social Centre.From community gardens to woodworking, the early programs offered therapeutic activity and purpose. Volunteers and participants worked side-by-side, building wooden toys, creating crafts and, perhaps most importantly, building friendships.The old ETSA powerhouse on Flinders Parade became the hub of these activities. It was in that building that Maurice Wilson, a retired teacher from Minda Homes, helped develop the carpentry workshop, and where the seeds of the Men’s Shed concept — long before it was called that — were planted.The launch also honoured many individuals who kept the vision alive over the years. From the tireless early efforts of Bill Johnson, Colin Humphris and Howard Hill, to the long service of volunteers like Kath Berridge and Melva Miles, the Victor Harbor Men’s Shed has always been more than just a workspace — it’s been a place of purpose, healing, and community.Dennis Williams, who chaired the Men’s Shed from 2011 until 2022, was recognised earlier this year as Victor Harbor’s 2025 Citizen of the Year — a well-earned acknowledgement of his leadership and unwavering dedication. Under his guidance the new facility was not only built, but established as a thriving hub of activity, offering woodworking, metalworking, mentoring and camaraderie to men from all walks of life. Dennis describes the Men’s Shed as, “a lifeline to many men,” highlighting its role as a, “supportive community for retired men who may feel isolated.”The grand opening of the Martha Close shed in September 2018 was a celebration marked by music, speeches and a cake (beautifully made by Linda Crabbe). It also represented something deeper — a victory for grassroots community spirit.Today the Victor Harbor Men’s Shed continues to welcome new members, offering a space where men can gather, learn, share, and support one another. For all its handy activities, the shed’s success has never been about buildings or tools — it’s about people.And for those who have contributed to its journey, the memories made — over timber, tea, and talk — will last a lifetime.

Small but significant species of native freshwater fish are being brought back from the brink of extinction through ambitious and collaborative recovery programs. With the support of local landholders, landscape boards, and conservation groups the programs are creating safe refuges, restoring habitats, and removing predators to help wild populations thrive.In Back Valley Creek, near Victor Harbor, Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu and Nature Glenelg Trust are working with local landholders to protect the genetically distinct, isolated population of southern pygmy perch, a small-bodied fish at risk of extinction.Recent surveys in the area revealed that an estimated 90 per cent of the population was confined to small, isolated pools - many of which were on the verge of drying out before the arrival of much needed rain. With habitat degradation, reduced water availability, and predation by invasive species threatening their survival, urgent intervention was essential. Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu’s Freshwater Ecologist, Tara Daniell explains in more detail.“Our April surveys along Back Valley Creek gave us an indication of population size and distribution, providing a critical baseline. “Between a degraded riparian and aquatic habitat, inclusion of invasive redfin and trout, and limited permanent pools available, the survival of this unique population was in real trouble,” she says.A dedicated recovery project is focussing on habitat restoration along the creek to improve water quality and vegetation, as well as installing livestock exclusion fencing and alternate stock water sources, to prevent further degradation by year-round stock access.To ensure the species persisted through summer dry spells, and to allow for the removal of invasive fish species, strategic relocations have seen over 200 southern pygmy perch moved to safe surrogate dams owned by local landholders, including Back Valley’s Andrew Robertson.While efforts to improve the creek line habitat is ongoing, it is hoped the number of fish in surrogate dams will increase. This would eventually enable their re-introduction to Back Valley Creek to boost wild populations and provide a safeguard against local extinction.Andrew emphasises the importance of adapting these conservation strategies in response to environmental changes.“Ensuring the survival of species via surrogate dams is a great way to go to protect threatened fish and is particularly important with the changing climate.”Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu recently held a workshop with landholders at Andrew’s property, where Senior Ecologist Sylvia Zukowski from Nature Glenelg Trust gave a presentation on southern pygmy perch and other local native fish species, giving participants the opportunity to learn more about the project and visit a refuge dam.The surrogate dam program aiming to save the southern pygmy perch is funded by Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu through the regional landscape levy.The southern pygmy perch 

🐾 About Zero🎶 “You need a Zero! Holding out for a Zero till the end of the night…” 🎶Zero isn’t just a name—it’s a vibe. This affectionate young boy is bursting with love and ready to be someone’s loyal best mate.At just a few months old, Zero is full of potential. He’s incredibly smart, people-focused, and would thrive with a family that’s ready to invest in a little training and a lot of cuddles.His dream home? 🐾 A spot on the couch 🐾 A toy basket full to the brim 🐾 A family who’ll spoil him silly🏡 Zero’s Ideal Home✅ Loves human companionship ✅ Should be the only pet in the household ✅ Great for many family types🦴 Adopt Zero for only $95 this week as part of RSPCA South Australia’s Pet of the Week promotion!📍 Learn more and arrange a visit: Zero | RSPCA South AustraliaLet’s help this sweet boy find his forever home!

A man has been arrested after trying to evade police at Christie Downs this morning.Just before 6am Saturday 5 July, Southern District patrols spotted a Toyota SUV on Adrian Street and directed it to stop. As the car pulled over, the driver got out and ran from police where he jumped several fences in an attempt to escape.Police Dog Bomber and his handler were nearby and joined patrols to search for the man. PD Bomber tracked through the area and quickly found the driver hiding in a backyard on Barbara Street.The 39-year-old man from Christie Downs was arrested and charged with being unlawfully on premises, breaching his bail and driving with an expired licence. He was further charged with drug offences after patrols searched his car and allegedly located methamphetamine and drug equipment. The man was refused police bail and will appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court on Monday (7 July).

Police are investigating after two vehicles were set on fire in Morphett Vale overnight.Just after 3.30am Saturday 5 July, police and fire crews were called to Archer Road following reports that two cars were on fire in the front yard of a home. Firefighters extinguished both fires which caused significant internal damage to the Nissan Ute and Volkswagen SUV.Initial investigations into the incident suggest that the fires are suspicious and Crime Scene investigators will attend the scene to examine the vehicles today.Anyone with information or CCTV is asked to contact police. You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.

Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island libraries will join others across South Australia in presenting Firstival, offering an opportunity to try something new in July.On top of its school holiday Firstival program, Victor Harbor Library has taken a theatrical route for its free events, with three live performances on offer.Acting Out Troupe will present Bookish, a humorous look at libraries, librarians, book clubs and bookshops, at 2pm on Thursday 24 July.Award-winning Fringe performer Tracy Crisp will give two shows, both on Wednesday 30 July.At 2pm Stitches features the annual stitch-and-b**ch competition, where Tracy is determined to finally win a trophy at the Royal Show in a mostly true, slightly made-up story about women's friendships and middle age.Then at 6pm she presents Where to From Here, when simple question from a stranger changes the course of her life forever. Firstival aims to reconnect people with their curiosity and book out some time in their busy lives to do something different. Anyone who books a ticket and attends any Victor Harbor Library Firstival event will go into the draw to win a South Seas Books and Trading voucher donated by the Friends of the Victor Harbor Library. Visit the Victor Harbor library events page to find all Firstival events and book a place.Visit the Firstival website to check out all events across the state during July.

Langhorne Creek Memorial Park has secured funding of $400,000 from the Department of Primary Industries and Regions Thriving Regions Fund.Part of the Enabling Infrastructure Program, the annual $15 million fund offers grants from $50,000 up to $1 million for infrastructure projects that strengthen and build strong regional communities.The grants support projects that can start within six months and be completed within two years of receiving funding.This grant will enable the Langhorne Creek Memorial Park committee to initiate upgrades to the Langhorne Creek Memorial Park Community Complex, including improved accessibility and amenities.Langhorne Creek Memorial Park Inc. is a community owned sports facility, governed by the Parks Committee, Incorporating the football, bowls, cricket, netball and tennis clubs. It will hold its annual general meeting on 18 August at the bowling club and hopes to welcome some new committee members, with its treasurer of 40 years – Sue Phillips – stepping down.Alexandrina Council has welcomed the funding and the prospective upgrades, saying they will improve inclusivity and create a more family-friendly environment. 

Elected members formally adopted the City of Onkaparinga’s Annual Business Plan and Budget for 2025-26 on 1 July.The $242.6 million budget includes a 2.2 per cent rate revenue increase, in line with the consumer price index and there will be no increase to community wastewater management system charges.The council says the outcome reflects its commitment to limiting the financial impact on the community while continuing to deliver a broad range of valued services and community infrastructure.Key priorities for the year include investment in roads, community spaces and traffic management.Six major road renewal projects, valued at approximately $8.4 million, will be undertaken, along with the continued refurbishment of the Hopgood Theatre and renewal of the Noarlunga Aquatic Centre.Coastal protection works include upgrades to the Christies Beach seawall, sand groyne and Port Noarlunga jetty. The final stage of the Witton Bluff Base Trail at Christies Beach will also be completed.This year will see the return of the grants program, with more than $700,000 in funding available and a refreshed structure to better support local groups and initiatives.Mayor Moira Were says Onkaparinga’s budget lays a solid foundation for long-term financial stability while remaining responsive to community needs and aspirations.“We heard clearly that residents want the council to be responsible with spending, limit rate rises and focus on maintaining what we have – and this budget delivers on that,” she says.“We’re pleased to again maintain an operating surplus, while keeping rate increases modest and aligned with cost-of-living expectations.”“This year’s budget reflects the hard work of previous years and delivers a sustainable, responsible financial plan that supports our community today and into the future.”For more information and to view the full Annual Business Plan and Budget 2025–26, visit the council website or call 8384 0666.

Alexandrina Council will run its Greening and Wildlife project for a second year, following success of the inaugural program in 2024.A collaboration with Second Nature Conservancy, the project offers low cost native plants, a free workshop, a nature walk and expert advice.The six native plants for $6 scheme aims to improving biodiversity in local gardens. A free workshop will show how to create a native garden in pots and small spaces.A special walk and talk event in Goolwa as part of the Nature Festival will explore local microbats.The project will also offer expert advice on gardening for wildlife and using native plants.To find out more, visit the Second Nature Conservancy website. 

 Finniss MP David Basham is urging the Victor Harbor and Alexandrina Councils to reassess their footpath and bike path policies and budgets following new state regulations to legalise e-scooters, e-skateboards and e-solo-wheels.Following recent foot surgery, Mr Basham has been using mobility scooters to get to his electorate office and to meetings and events around town. He says using the footpaths and bike paths has given him a different perspective into the infrastructure needs of many in the community.“The footpaths and bike paths are well used, both by very active people and those in the community with physical limitations. On-going upgrades and maintenance of these paths are an important part of continuing to provide for the community.“In my daily travels, I have come across several footpaths where there are missing sections of continuous path, or the path stops all together. I then have to divert onto roads, which is not ideal. In some places, there are no alternatives but to be technically jaywalking (jay-scootering) to get where I need to go.“I have also found that pavers are not ideal for traveling on, as it’s extremely rough and bumpy. They might look aesthetically pleasing but they are not as practical a surface for riding on.”Mr Basham says the recent announcement to allow personal mobility devices (PMDs) to share footpaths and bike paths with walkers, cyclists, joggers, those using mobility wheelchairs and the seeing impaired would make for congested and well-worn thoroughfares.“Knowing there will be more use of the footpaths and bike paths would make it the perfect time for both councils to address current gaps in the network and review any outdated path policies. “It would be great to have council websites allow people to directly raise concerns about the footpath and walkway issues they face, especially in light of the new users.“It is vital to get this right and deliver infrastructure, now and in the future, to support and encourage our active community whether they want to walk, cycle, use personal mobility devices or legally ride on e-scooters to navigate in and around the town.”PMDs will be legal to use in South Australia from Sunday 13 July.   

A driver has been charged with multiple traffic offences, including failing to stop for police, following investigations into a three-car crash at Middleton last month.A white Holden Commodore sedan was detected travelling at the extreme speed of 146 km/h in a 60 km/h zone at Port Elliot Road, Middleton at 9pm on Wednesday 11 June.Another patrol then picked up the vehicle in Goolwa as it did a u-turn and the patrol activated its lights and sirens, however the driver refused to pull over.  The pursuit was terminated as the Commodore entered the 100 km/h zone on the Port Elliot Road, heading back towards Middleton.A couple of minutes later, police located a three-car crash at the intersection of Port Elliot Road and Boettcher Road, Middleton and requested emergency services.A 41-year-old man, who was the alleged driver of the Commodore, sustained serious injuries in the crash and was taken to hospital.One of the other drivers, a 65-year-old Goolwa South woman, sustained serious injuries when her Land Rover rolled and was taken to hospital for treatment. The third driver, a 35-year-old Goolwa North man, whose vehicle was clipped, was not injured.The injured drivers have since been released from hospital.Yesterday, Tuesday 1 July, police arrested the 41-year-old Encounter Bay man, and charged him with drive disqualified, extreme speed, fail to stop for police, dangerous driving to escape police, cause harm by dangerous driving, misuse of a motor vehicle, drink and drug driving.He was bailed to appear in the Victor Harbor Magistrates Court on 1 September.

It may be winter but there are plenty of outdoor activities on offer across the Fleurieu these July school holidays, as well as indoor events in the toasty warm.Kids of all ages can get involved in active, outdoorsy fun designed to get them exploring, connecting and having a great time during their break.They include Fleurieu Coast scavenger hunts, Second Valley and Rapid Bay geology exploration, hiking the Heysen Trail and mountain biking in Myponga – with added pizza!All gear is provided and some activities even include lunch. Register for programs online. Indoor fun includes science craft activities in the Yankalilla library, cardboard box creativity at Mount Compass community centre, microplastic recycling at Goolwa and Strathalbyn libraries and paper craft at Victor Harbor library.Milang will host a fishing competition, followed by a barbecue and the Fleurieu Aquatic Centre will have two inflatable runs and a pool party.These are just a few of the fabulous free and low cost indoor and outdoor activities on offer in the Fleurieu school holiday program, which will also feature art, music and cooking.Find the full program, with details of how to book, online. 

Alexandrina Council is calling on riders who use the dirt jumps tracks at Mount Compass and Goolwa to provide their feedback on upcoming maintenance works to the popular recreation facilities.Weather permitting, the maintenance work is scheduled to start in July with council staff and their contracted trail builder, Next Level Mountain Bike, holding two drop-in information sessions at the tracks during the school holidays on Monday 7 July.“The dirt jumps tracks at the Goolwa Recreation Park and Mount Compass Recreation Park are extremely popular with our young people but weather, time and constant use means the time has come for some maintenance and minor revisions to improve the tracks and make them safer,” Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes says.“We allocated $70,000 in our current budget for these works. We’ve had a professional trail builder do an assessment and come up with proposals for maintenance.“The contractor has suggested a range of minor improvements at each site that focus on enhancing the rider experience, creating a sustainable and maintainable jumps line, reducing rider risk and improving safety.“We’d encourage riders to come along to our information drop-in sessions, view our proposed concept designs and make some suggestions.“If you cannot make the sessions, head to our My Say website to see the concept designs and submit suggestions.“Please keep in mind that Council must remain in budget and we need to consider acceptable risk standards, the need to provide an inclusive rider experience and that the track is sustainably constructed.“Depending on the weather, we expect the works to start in Goolwa during July which is expected to take around three weeks to complete and then moving to Mount Compass and taking about seven weeks to complete.”Goolwa Dirt Jump Facility Renewal Drop-in Session• WHEN: Drop in any time between 10am – 12pm, Monday 7 July• WHERE: Goolwa Recreation Park, Glendale GroveMount Compass Dirt Jump Facility Renewal Drop-in Session• WHEN: Drop in any time between 1.30pm – 3.30 pm, Monday 7 July• WHERE: Mount Compass Recreation Park, Ekers CourtThe online survey closes at 3pm on Friday 11 July.Goolwa dirt jump track

Farmers across the Hills and Fleurieu region will soon benefit from additional targeted rabbit control efforts, thanks to a $760K investment from the state government’s Drought Support Package.Wild rabbits wreak havoc on crops, pastures, and native vegetation, leading to an estimated $197 million in agricultural losses annually. Their burrowing activity causes soil erosion, land degradation and infrastructure damage, further impacting productivity. Due to drought and limited feed availability, rabbit breeding has slowed, making now a prime time to act.To support primary producers in managing feral rabbits, the Department for Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is leading an initiative in partnership with regional landscape boards, the National Rabbit Coordinator, and the Foundation for Rabbit Free Australia.Eligible farmers in the Hills and Fleurieu region will have access to a range of control tools, including:• Free warren ripping.• Free 1080 oat bait (for properties larger than five hectares).PIRSA and Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu want to hear from farmers about their experiences with feral rabbits at a series of free regional barbecues in July at Parawa, Strathalbyn and Mount Torrens. At these barbecues PIRSA will outline the eligibility criteria to access support and will answer questions about the program.• Parawa –Thursday 17 July - 6pm• Strathalbyn – Tuesday 22 July - 6pm• Mount Torrens – Wednesday 23 July - 6pmThis program is part of the broader $73 million State Government drought assistance package, to equip farmers with resources to combat the environmental and financial challenges caused by ongoing dry conditions.PIRSA and Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu are encouraging eligible farmers to take advantage of these measures to mitigate rabbit populations as they rebound following winter rains.Bookings are essential for catering purposes and can be made online. 

Strathalbyn is the only Fleurieu town to make the top ten of the 2025 South Australian Agricultural Town of the Year, voted by the public. The top 10 list – from 96 nominated towns – recognises South Australian communities that showcase farming innovation, community resilience, sustainability and contributions to both the local and state-wide agricultural sectors. The top ten nominated towns are:BordertownCumminsJamestownKeithKimbaLamerooMount PleasantOrrorooPort MacDonnellStrathalbynThe top 10 towns will provide a written submission to an independent judging panel, which will assess their contribution to agriculture, community strength, and regional leadership. From this group, three finalists will be selected for town visits before the ultimate winner is crowned later in the year. The towns are judged on criteria including:Agricultural innovation — adoption of new technologies, climate-smart farming, productivity gains.Economic impact — strengthening local economies, job creation, added value industries.Community engagement — participation in local ag events, volunteerism, youth development.Sustainability — environmental stewardship, water and land management, biosecurity initiatives.Agricultural education and leadership —school and community education and leadership programs.The Ag Town of the Year prize includes a sign for the town entrance recognising its achievements, a community celebration event, a trophy, and extensive media exposure showcasing the town’s contribution to the state.Nine Fleurieu towns and two on Kangaroo Island were among the 96 nominated for the 2025 award. The public vote closed on 20 June. Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven says she is privileged to be able to travel across the state to see regional towns and communities that contribute so much to the state. “Despite the current drought impacting many regional towns, it is inspiring to see these communities stepping up and embracing innovation in primary industries, while fostering meaningful connections within their communities. “This year’s top 10 nominees reflect the breadth of agricultural excellence across South Australia - from pioneering farmers to forward-thinking local councils and agricultural champions. “This award isn’t just about production - it’s about people. We’re celebrating the communities that are truly living the values of partnership, resilience and innovation and showing why South Australia is a global leader in primary industries.To view the list of towns and for more information on the awards, visit the website. 

At around 10.50am today, Monday 30 June, CFS volunteer firefighters responded to a shed fire at Goolwa on the Fleurieu Peninsula.Fifteen CFS firefighters with 3 trucks worked alongside the Metropolitan Fire Service, SA Police, SA Ambulance Service, and SA Power Networks in a coordinated effort to extinguish the fire in a 12 by 17 metre shed.Crews will remain on scene for some time as they work to gain access to the shed. They are using thermal imaging cameras to check for hot spots and extinguish any smouldering areas.Unfortunately, the shed was destroyed and the contents, including 2 cars, a caravan, a boat, and a horse float, were lost.Damage has been estimated at $800,000, and Fire Investigators have been called to the scene.2025-06-30

More than $1 million in Coast Protection Board grants are available to councils and community groups to help coastal and marine environment and address climate change.With the clock ticking until the closing date of 1 August, applications for the 2025-26 Coast Protection Grants and the Community Participation Grants are encouraged.Coast Protection Grants - where up to $1 million is available - will assist coastal councils undertaking projects that address coastal hazard risks or repair damage caused by coastal hazards.Projects addressing risks such as erosion or flooding, including foreshore protection, dune rehabilitation and coastal maintenance will be favoured.Previous projects that have received grants include the construction of seawalls and levees, cliff stability studies and works, repair to storm-damaged protection structures, beach replenishment for coastal protection purposes and coastal hazard risk assessment and adaptation planning.Meanwhile, the Community Participation Grants Program, which provide another $40,000, will support local and small-scale coastal management initiatives.The Community Participation Grants will involve or educate communities on coastal management, enhance community skills and knowledge when it comes to the rehabilitation, restoration or conservation of the coast and marine environment, facilitate partnerships in coast and marine management, encourage environmental protection and manage or create ways to deal with the degradation of the coast or marine environment.Past recipients of The Community Participants Grants include projects that improved coastal access, carried out weed control, restored dunes and engaged the community.Coast Protection Board Presiding Member Paul Caica says the draft of grants are extremely important to bolster councils’ efforts as they tackle coastal issues and management."The Coast Protection Board knows firsthand that we have a community of councils, groups and individuals who care deeply about their local coastline and marine environment.“We encourage anyone with an interest to apply for a grant.“We look forward to receiving more applications and helping these projects materialise or grow.“At 5000km long, South Australia’s coastline is impressive. Let’s keep it that way by using funds to manage and protect it for future generations.”There were nine councils that benefited from the 2024- 2025 Coast Protection Grants while community groups from five local council areas were awarded Community Participation Grants in 2024- 2025.Applications for the current round of grants will close 1 August 2025. Potential applicants can apply via Smarty Grants or visit Department for Environmentand Water - Grants for more information.