South coast surfers have reported health concerns after using Waitpinga Beach, stoking fears of a serious pollution problem.Anthony Rowland told ABC Radio on Monday 17 March that many beachgoers had experienced a cough, sore throat, sore eyes and even blurred vision on the weekend and some were still feeling unwell.He says they have informed National Parks and PIRSA and he has been collecting water samples."Never in 40 years of being in the ocean have I experienced these symptoms with everyone around me at the same time. It looks to be algae related due to water temperature but who knows at this point?Reports of many dead fish and sea creatures, including leafy sea dragons, washing up on south coast beaches have also been published on Facebook, with claims of an algal bloom stretching from Parsons beach through to Encounter Bay.The EPA has yet to issue any alerts or safety information about south coast beaches, despite reports of copious amounts of sea foam suspected to have triggered the health issues. 

South Australians are invited to keep shining the spotlight on women making significant contributions to their communities and industries following the state’s first ever Women’s Week. Nominations for the new South Australian Women of Impact Awards opened on International Women’s Day, 8 March. The Awards recognise and celebrate women making an impact and creating positive change for women in South Australia across four categories:Impact in Industry Award – women making a positive impact in their industry. Impact in the Community Award – women making a positive impact in their community.Aboriginal Impact Award – First Nations Women advocating for their community and/or making a difference in their field.Ending Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Impact Award – women dedicated to preventing and ending DFSV in South Australia.The categories aim to encourage nominations from diverse groups within the South Australian community and to recognise and raise the profile of the outstanding service and significant contributions of women across all areas.Katrine Hildyard is Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic, Family & Sexual Violence.“The South Australian Women of Impact Awards are about shining a light on the efforts of hardworking volunteers, advocates, researchers, service providers and others who have made it their mission to drive positive change. “These are the women we hope will inspire the next generation to give back to their communities and to pursue their goals. “I encourage any South Australian who knows a woman making waves in her workplace or community to put their name forward to be recognised for their contributions to the state and commitment to driving lasting change that will make a difference in women’s lives and to the strength of their communities and our state as a whole.” Nominations can be made through the South Australian Women of Impact Awards website until 30 May. The winners for each category are expected to be announced in September. You can nominate someone for a Women of Impact awards online. 

A man has been arrested after allegedly breaking into a car in Christie Downs early this morning.Just after midnight on Monday, 17 March, police were called to Stephen Crescent following reports from residents about a man attempting to break into a vehicle.When police arrived, they found that residents had detained the suspect. A 39-year-old man from Christie Downs was taken into custody.A search of the man's bag allegedly uncovered a small quantity of drugs, drug paraphernalia, a homemade taser, and a baton.He has been charged with assault causing harm, illegal interference, possession of a dangerous article, and drug offences. Bail was refused, and he is expected to appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court later today.Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has further information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Victor Harbor’s Encounter Centre is among more than 80 community groups across remote, rural and regional Australia to share in $827,253 in grants for Strengthening Rural Communities. The Foundation for Rural and regional Renewal (FRRR) Small and Vital grants offer up to $10,000 to grassroots not-for-profit organisations for initiatives that celebrate, strengthen and support their rural communities to be more vibrant, resilient and sustainable.Encounter Centre was awarded $7803 for an upgrade of its community garden, to provide a disability inclusive environment for health and social wellbeing activities by installing mobility-friendly pathways and garden beds for a community gardening program.Nearly $560,000 has been awarded through the Small & Vital stream and will support 67 projects that create inclusive and accessible community spaces, provide mentoring and training and learning opportunities, improve employment prospects, or offer people the chance to connect and engage with others and their wider community.The Prepare & Recover (P&R) stream of the program has awarded nearly $270,000 to 17 initiatives that build community resilience, preparedness and capacity to mitigate the impact of future extreme weather events, as well as support medium to long-term recovery in regions impacted by previous disasters, such as the 2022 floods and the Black Summer bushfires.The full list of grant recipients is available on the FRRR website.Jill Karena, Head of Granting at FRRR, says the team is continually inspired by the strength and resilience of groups dedicated to helping remote, rural and regional communities thrive.“What makes rural communities amazing are the people that live there. These places are filled with locals working hard to keep community spirit alive and willing to step up to see their region navigate the highs and lows that come with living in the country. We see our role as walking beside them and empowering local groups to lead the projects they know will have a real impact.“After supporting communities impacted by disasters for the past 25 years, we also know just how important flexible recovery and preparedness funding is, Because communities’ needs change over time. By using a medium to long-term recovery lens, we’re able to support projects that strengthen the social fabric of a community through preparedness, capacity and resilience-building activities.“Our grants are often just one part of the bigger picture in terms of getting projects off the ground. But we know that this funding is often a crucial catalyst, encouraging further investment in local solutions.“Demand for funding continues to grow, as the cost of living and operational expenses rise, government priorities shift, and the impacts of climate change and disasters evolve.“To meet this demand, FRRR needs the support of the philanthropic and corporate sectors. A collaborative effort is needed to empower rural communities to lead a vibrant and sustainable future,” The Strengthening Rural Communities program is collaboratively supported by donors, ranging from private individuals to larger foundations, who are acknowledged on the FRRR website.FRRR always accepts applications to this program, which awards funds around four times a year. Local not-for-profit organisations and community groups are encouraged to review the program guidelines and apply. More information about the SRC program is available on the website.Encounter Centre is a community organisation that offers programs and activities for people on the south coast of all abilities.

Story courtesy Coast Lines MagazineWords: Susie WilliamsIn the picturesque town of Willunga, a delightful melody often fills the air. This is no ordinary sound; it’s the harmonious strumming of the Willunga Ukulele Ensemble—a spirited group of music lovers who have been bringing joy to the community since 2017. With their ukuleles in hand, they have created a symphony of connection, camaraderie, and celebration that resonates far beyond the music they play.What makes the Willunga Ukuleles truly special is the intergenerational spirit. From eager teenagers as young as 15 to spirited seniors in their 80s, this 50-member ensemble transcends age barriers. Each strum of their ukuleles weaves a story of mentorship, learning, and friendship. Younger members find inspiration and guidance, while seasoned players rediscover the joy of teaching and sharing their passion. It’s a beautiful blend of life experiences, proving that music is a universal language that bridges generations.More than just a musical group—the ensemble is a community in motion. Their melodies have graced bustling farmers' markets, lively local festivals, and intimate nursing home gatherings. Each performance is an act of connection, bringing smiles and shared moments to audiences across the region. Whether uplifting spirits at public events or lending their support to community causes, the music is a gift that unites and inspires.A hub for musical discoveryThe group’s mission extends beyond performances. It serves as a vibrant hub for musical education, welcoming newcomers to the world of the ukulele. Through workshops and teaching sessions, they nurture budding musicians and provide a platform for seasoned players to refine their craft. The joy of learning is at the core of their ethos, ensuring that every participant—whether a beginner or a pro—feels valued and encouraged.At its heart, the Willunga Ukulele Ensemble is a family. Rehearsals echo with laughter, friendships bloom with every chord, and the rhythm of togetherness beats stronger with each strum. Members come from diverse backgrounds, but their shared love for music creates a common bond. The group celebrates not just their differences but the harmony that comes from uniting them—a lesson in inclusivity and mutual respect.Looking ahead to 2025, the ensemble has exciting plans to expand its reach and deepen the impact. Their new home at the Willunga Golf Club will host twice-monthly strum sessions, complementing the existing beginner-friendly daytime gatherings at Aldinga Community Centre. Evening strums at the Willunga Hub will also offer a fresh opportunity for the community to come together and create music. These initiatives aim to make the group even more accessible, spreading the joy of ukulele playing across the Fleurieu Peninsula.Join the melody!Are you ready to become part of this harmonious community? Whether you’re a seasoned strummer or a complete novice, the Willunga Ukuleles welcome you with open arms. Together, you can create melodies that brighten days and build lasting connections.To learn more about upcoming performances, workshops, or how to join, visit their website at Willunga Ukuleles or email them at [email protected]. Evening strum sessions for 2025 are already in the works, set for the second Thursday of every month at the Willunga Hub at 7pm.

Harmony week runs from Monday 17 to Sunday 23 March and City of Onkaparinga is encouraging residents to embrace a new cultural experience. With the theme ‘Everyone Belongs’, Harmony Week celebrates diversity by bringing together people from all different backgrounds.Henna art, Japanese anime and Arabic calligraphy are just a few of the cultural activities and experiences on offer across the district, which include film and food from many places.Hosted at libraries, community centres and youth centres, many events are free to attend.It all comes together on Saturday 22 March with a free family event at Karawatha Hall and Reserve at O’Sullivan’s Beach from 10.30am to 12.30pm.The council’s Community Connections Team has joined with Department of Human Services to hold kids games and adult activities.They include henna and glitter tattoos, interactive drumming sessions, origami, Indigenous art and a sausage sizzle.Bookings are required for some Harmony Week activities, find out more on the City of Onkaparinga website, or check out Onkaparinga Now.

Police are investigating a suspicious fire that caused extensive damage to a house and car in Aldinga Beach in the early hours of Saturday morning.Just after 2am on 15 March, emergency services were called to Illman Crescent following reports of a tree on fire. When police and Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) crews arrived, they found the fire had spread to a nearby house and vehicle.Firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control, but not before it caused significant damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.Fire cause investigators will assess the scene today to determine the origin of the blaze. Police believe the fire was deliberately lit and are urging anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage from the area to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The eSafety Commissioner and South Australia Police have committed to closer collaboration in the fight against criminal content and other serious online harms.eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant and South Australia Police Commissioner Grant Stevens have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalising updated protocols to jointly investigate matters ranging from cyberbullying to image-based abuse, adult cyber abuse and illegal and harmful content.The MoU will see eSafety share information from investigations into some of the thousands of complaints it receives every month.“Reports to eSafety of serious cyberbullying, abuse and harmful content continue to grow,” Ms Inman Grant says.“For example, we received 2,978 cyberbullying complaints in 2024, a 25 per cent jump from the previous year. Of those reports, 46 per cent were in relation to children 13-years-old and younger.“We have a fantastic partnership with South Australia Police and this MoU will strengthen that by formalising our approach in vital areas of cooperation to improve online safety for South Australians,” she says.Commissioner Stevens has echoed this commitment, emphasising the critical role of law enforcement in tackling online threats.“This MoU will see our continued relationship with eSafety and ensure all parties work together to make the online environment safe for our community,” he says.“We are committed to using our resources to investigate cybercrime matters whether through fraud, child exploitation or abhorrent violent material.”The MoU covers serious cyberbullying, adult cyber abuse, the sharing of intimate images without consent and the distribution of illegal or restricted content, such as child sexual exploitation and abuse material and extreme violence or terrorism content. This extends to content that, “instructs, promotes and encourages crime and violence”, as has been increasingly seen with youth crime posted online.The strengthened partnership has also been welcomed by South Australia’s Police Minister Stephen Mullighan, who has highlighted the importance of a united front against online crime.“The state government welcomes the collaboration between SAPOL and eSafety to help stamp out criminal activity online,” he says.“Crimes including cyberbullying, adult cyber abuse and the distribution of illegal content have no place in South Australia and this agreement will strengthen the fight against those illegal activities.“By sharing resources and jointly investigating online offences, SAPOL and eSafety are in a better position to close the net on online criminals,” he says.eSafety also provides information, resources and training to help police officers around Australia deal with online harms ranging from cyberbullying to gender-based violence.“It is vital that eSafety’s works very closely with law enforcement agencies such as South Australia Police to target perpetrators and identify victims in more serious criminal matters,” Ms Inman Grant says.“This work with law enforcement complements eSafety’s civil powers to remove harmful content, helping us keep Australians safer – both online, and in the real world.”

The new ambulance station in Victor Harbor will hold a community open day on Saturday 29 March.The facility on the Adelaide Road in Hayborough will be open to the public from 11am to 1pm, with local paramedic teams on hand to offer tours of the station and CPR demonstrations.There will also be a free sausage sizzle, face painting for the kids and a display of vintage and current ambulances, with coffee and ice-cream available for purchase.The purpose built ambulance station replaces the old facility, located in a run-down old three bedroom house on Torrens Road.It was a commitment of the incoming state government, following the 2022 election, which has also funded two extra paramedic crews for the south coast.

More than 30 youth and family organisations will gather at Aldinga Payinthi College next Tuesday 18 March to offer a free expo of their services in the region.Also on offer will be a free barbecue, games, face painting and entertainment for all ages. A combined effort of the school, Southern Youth Round Table and the City of Onkaparinga, this first Southern Youth and Family Services Expo will run from 3.30pm to 5.30pm.There are many diverse services available to young people and families across the southern region, but they can’t help if people don’t know they are there.The expo aims to highlight the support, activities, care and information that can be accessed to improve every aspect of life.Young people and their families, carers and support workers are all welcome to drop in  for a chat and a good time.The Southern Youth Round Table is a network of youth sector professionals who operate in the City of Onkaparinga and the City of Marion. They share information, identify local needs and advocate for young people in the region.For more information about the expo and youth programs and services in the south, visit the City of Onkaparinga website.

An urgent warning has been issued about the dangers of button batteries following a spike in seriously injured children treated at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Already this year, two children have been taken to the hospital requiring emergency oesophageal surgery and multiple follow-up surgeries to treat complications from swallowing button batteries. That compares to two children in total for the whole of 2023 and three children for all of last year. Across Australia, 20 children will go to hospital every week with a suspected button battery ingestion, with cases more common during gift giving periods like Christmas and Easter. Button batteries are extremely dangerous for children, causing quick, serious and life-threatening burns if swallowed or inserted into the body. Experts warn that once swallowed, a battery can burn through a child’s oesophagus in less than two hours. Children can also develop life-threatening bleeding, as well as infections, sepsis and injuries to critical parts of their chest. Some children require admission into the paediatric intensive care unit and may even be placed on life support to help treat complications. Long term, injuries from button battery ingestions can prevent some children from eating normally ever again. Children under the age of four are at the highest risk of death, while the peak age for ingestion is children between the ages of one and two.Dr Sonja Latzel is Women’s and Children’s Health Network Divisional Medical Director of Surgery.  “Button batteries should be stored like any other poison – securely out of the reach of children. “We are currently seeing a concerning rise in button battery ingestions, with clinicians having to perform incredibly invasive surgeries to save lives.  “We don’t want to see another death in Australia. If you suspect your child may have swallowed a battery, please don’t wait – quick action is critical.  “Urgent advice can be provided by the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 16.” Doctors warn that ingestions are not always witnessed and that symptoms often appear vague, delaying diagnosis and treatment. Look out for symptoms like chest pain, coughing, vomiting, trouble swallowing, food refusal and abdominal pain. However, experts warn that sometimes there may be no symptoms at all. Don’t wait for symptoms to develop before seeking help. Children should not be given food or drink, and parents should not try to induce vomiting.Button batteries are still found in many household items, including watches, remotes, calculators, thermometers and musical cards. Items containing batteries should be kept out of reach of children and old batteries should be disposed of immediately and safely. For further information on button batteries, visit the SA Health website. 

A combination of extreme weather and a technology fail spoiled the party for the annual Fleurieu Film Festival gala screening in February.Although the finalists were honoured and awards given out, the winning short films could not be shown at the outdoor event held at McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre.To make up for the disappointment to both filmmakers and cinema lovers the Festival has arranged three sessions for the finalist films to be shown in comfort and on a very big screen.The 1.5 hour sessions will feature 17 short films that encompass comedy, drama, documentary and music.They will be at Victa Cinema in Victor Harbor on Saturday 29 March, Wallis Cinemas Noarlunga on Friday 4 April and The Mercury Cinema in Adelaide on Saturday 12 April. Tickets cost $12, with free entry for non-refunded ticket holders, using the original booking code. Booking and screening information is on the Fleurieu Film Festival website. Full details of the awards and finalists can also be found on the Fleurieu Film Festival website.

A new emergency bulk water collection point has opened today, Wednesday 12 March in Field Street, McLaren Vale (behind Coles). Four more water carting providers have now registered through SA Health’s accreditation process, as required under the Safe Drinking Water Act, with more expected to come online in the coming days and weeks. The state government says these new providers will help to address the bottleneck in carting services for those living off mains water, amid record low rainfall throughout the state. The emergency bulk water collection points have been established in response to the unprecedented dry conditions and unmet water carting demands. The Field Street follows three other sites that were established last Thursday in the Adelaide Hills. The four sites are open 7 days a week from 7am to 7pm. They are a temporary emergency measure for household domestic purposes only. They are to assist households that are running out - or have run out - of water and are unable to get water delivered by a water carter.Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Susan Close says the new collection point at McLaren Vale will provide relief to households in the region who need extra water while they wait for their water carting delivery. “This temporary service has been set up in response to the current high demand in the Hills and Fleurieu region. “The four new companies with a water carting licence will ease pressure on other carters, who continue to go above and beyond to support their customers. “We will continue to monitor the number of people using the emergency bulk water collection points, and locations and opening hours may change depending on the demand and delivery capacity of water carters.” So far, about 100 people have collected 110,050 litres of water from the emergency bulk water collection sites at Brukunga, Sandergrove and Woodside in the Hills. The new water carting providers are now listed on the SA Health website. More information about the emergency bulk water collection points is available online. 

Climate Tech and Biochar Company Re-Vi Appoints Leading Nature Finance Specialist as CEORe-Vi, the Australian company behind one of the biggest biochar and carbon removal projects in the world, on Kangaroo Island, has announced the appointment of Radha Kuppalli as its CEO.Ms Kuppalli is an executive with deep operational and investment experience in forestry and carbon markets, who serves as a board director of Greening Australia and Accounting for Nature and sits on the Australian Government’s Nature Finance Council. She has spent more than 20 years executing investment solutions to address climate change, nature restoration, and sustainable land management.Ms Kuppalli says she is excited to grow the Re-Vi business.“Re-Vi is developing institutional scale biochar projects that revitalise landscapes. There are opportunities across Australia to undertake landscape restoration at scale, enabled by biochar and climate finance.“Throughout my career I have worked on building new markets and investment models that create positive environmental and community outcomes. Re-Vi’s first project on Kangaroo Island will put Australia on the map globally in terms of biochar production and carbon removals.”In its world-leading project on Kangaroo Island in South Australia, Re-Vi is transforming over 15,000 hectares of fire damaged timber plantations into biochar, a form of charcoal that is highly stable and carbon-rich, with numerous agricultural and industrial applications. With its significant stability and durability, biochar locks up carbon dioxide that would have otherwise been released into the atmosphere, making it a sought-after carbon removal technology essential for meeting net zero emissions targets.Ms Kuppalli says the Kangaroo Island biochar project will benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including investment and jobs for the Kangaroo Island community and more broadly throughout the country by providing biochar to Australian farmers to improve their soils and productivity.“We also expect to produce two million tonnes of Carbon Dioxide Removal credits that will be sold to the world’s leading companies. We’ve had strong interest from major companies who see biochar-based credits as a high- quality pathway to meeting their net zero ambitions.“Re-Vi’s investment will help the people, fauna, and flora of Kangaroo Island to recover from the 2020 bushfires and create new jobs and opportunities.”Kangaroo Island councillors visited  the biochar facility on 4 March as part of  a tour of key infrastructure and community project sites.The visit allowed members to see essential works in action, including roadside vegetation management, new culvert installations, and comparisons of different road materials and maintenance techniques.Mayor Michael Pengilly highlighted the positive economic impact of the Biochar project.“This initiative is not only an environmental game-changer but a significant boost for our local economy. With 70 jobs already created, the project is bringing real benefits to Kangaroo Island, particularly the western end of the Island, and will continue to drive new opportunities.”Re-Vi’s major shareholder, Kiland Limited, owns the land and fire-damaged timber plantations on Kangaroo Island and is supplying the fire-damaged timber to Re-Vi as it clears the land. Kiland is in the process of returning the impacted land to a productive agricultural estate.The Chairman of both Re-Vi and Kiland, James Davies, says the biochar project is an innovative solution for helping Kangaroo Island recover from the devastating 2020 bushfires and return the land to productive use. He says Ms Kuppalli has been brought on as a seasoned executive to drive the Re-Vi business forward.“Radha not only has deep expertise in carbon markets and land management, but she has a proven track record of building businesses and delivering capital at scale to innovative investment strategies related to climate and nature. “She has built a strong reputation in Australia and internationally as someone who is deeply committed to positive environmental outcomes alongside executing commercially successful businesses.”Re-Vi’s Kangaroo Island biochar project is in the commissioning stage, with full production scheduled to start by mid-year.Re-Vi CEO_Radha Kuppalli.

Carbon farming is about adapting farming practices to reduce emissions and/or sequester (or store) carbon in the soil or vegetation.Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu is offering farmers the chance to learn about carbon farming and how it can enhance sustainability and productivity, while meeting emerging market demands.“Through a series of free workshops, we’ll look at how carbon farming can improve farm sustainability and productivity, while also preparing farmers to meet future emission reporting required by banks, markets and insurers,” says Bonnie Armour, Carbon Farming Officer at Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu.“We’ll also cover the carbon and nitrogen cycles that contribute to your emissions, how these can affect your production, and steps you can take to reduce them."These sessions create a supportive space, where farmers can build confidence in managing emissions and using emissions calculators, as well as improving farm sustainability,” Ms Armour says."Sustainable farming practices, including carbon farming, are essential. There are opportunities out there for farms to understand and reduce their carbon footprint, potentially diversify their income, all while improving the land for future generations.” Find out more about the workshops online. Upcoming workshop dates are:20 March (5-8.30pm) Yankalilla3 April (5-8.30pm) – Ashbourne15 May (7.30-9.30pm) – ClarendonMore workshops will be held across the region but are yet to be announced.This project is funded by the federal government through the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water under the Carbon Farming Outreach Program.

The South Australian State Emergency Service (SASES) is advising people to remain vigilant to the potential impacts and dangers posed by trees suffering prolonged heatstress after the state endured its hottest summer of maximum temperatures on record.During summer 2024/25, highly trained SES volunteers responded to 1277 Requests for Assistance regarding ‘tree down’ jobs, often falling on homes, cars and roads.Heat distressed trees indiscriminately drop large branches and limbs, potentially resulting in significant damage to vehicles, homes and properties and in tragic cases, people.With the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting a hotter and drier start to autumn than previous years, the heat stress on trees across the state is expected to continue.SASES Chief Officer Chris Beattie says responding to trees falling or dropping limbs kept volunteers in the emergency response agency busy over summer.“People with safety concerns regarding trees people should contact their local council in the first instance if the tree is on public land, or an arborist if the tree is on private property,’’he says.“We received 1277 Requests for Assistance in relation to tree downs in summer and have seen firsthand the impact falling branches and trees can have on homes and vehicles.“It can be quite difficult to identify a tree under distress until it starts dropping significant limbs and branches.“With that in mind, the best advice is to remain mindful of the potential impacts of distressed trees and the ways people can help reduce their risk.“When possible, we would advise people to avoid parking underneath trees on very hot days and to be proactive about trimming back overhanging branches on their properties.’’For autumn preparedness the SASES advises:TRIM trees and branches that could fall on your home or property.CHECK your insurance policy is adequate and covers you for storm damage.PARK vehicles under cover when possible and well away from trees.REPAIR any damage to your roof.Visit the SES website for more information on being prepared.

Mark Koen from Restored Connection will facilitate a free session just for dads at the Yankalilla Showgrounds Shed on Wednesday 12 Match.He says men aren't always great at reaching out for support and talking about the stuff that really matters.The Wednesday evening gathering offers an opportunity to talk about all things dad, with men encouraged to bring their stories, challenges and tips on how to navigate being a dad. It will be a relaxed evening with the chance to connect with other dads, share experiences and gain insights into supporting children - all while enjoying a barbecue and a chat.The session is part of a series of parenting workshops scheduled across the district in 2025, with funding from the Local Drug Action Team and the Alcohol and Drug Foundation.There is no charge but booking is essential via Trybooking.

The federal government has claimed a milestone in recovering environmental water for the River Murray.New figures show that water recovery in progress on the Murray-Darling Basin Plan’s 450GL water target has surged to 286GL in this term of government, compared to 2GL in the previous 10 years.It says it has in train almost two-thirds of the water towards the 450GL target, and delivered 99.5 per cent of the Bridging the Gap target – two core parts of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.The government has welcomed the strong community interest in voluntary water purchase. The first round tender has closed and contracts are currently being evaluated for up to 70GL of water from parts of the southern connected Basin. Further offers are still under consideration, with another tender for up to 100GL of water from the southern connected Basin opened late last month.Last week the federal government announced more than $94 million of funding for South Australian Basin communities to deliver important infrastructure that can support higher flows in the River Murray and provide assistance that will minimise the social and economic impacts of water recovery.It says it remains open to all options to deliver the Murray−Darling Basin Plan in a way that balances the needs of communities, industries and the environment.Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek says after a decade of sabotage, Labor has got the Basin Plan back on track.“We know this water is vital to Basin communities and is something that matters deeply to all South Australians.“A healthy Murray-Darling Basin is vital to the communities, industry and environment that rely on it. That’s why we’ve worked together with Basin states and communities to rescue the Plan and deliver much-needed water.South Australian Deputy Premier Susan Close says the announcement is tremendous news for the state and couldn’t come at a better time with drought starting to bite.“Without a healthy River Murray, there is no water for farmers, irrigators or the environment, so this is an unbelievable result.”

Story courtesy Coast Lines MagazineWords: David O’BrienSince 1922, the Levis Motorcycle Club has captivated audiences with its adrenaline-charged beach races, featuring a mix of historic and modern bikes. Over its 102-year evolution, this iconic event has stayed true to its roots, offering an exhilarating spectacle on the 1.6km stretch of sand between Silver Sands and Sellicks Beach.The highlight is a daring 180-degree hairpin turn at each end of the course.Brenton Matters, organiser of the 2025 Sellicks Beach Races and President of Motorcycling South Australia, paints a vivid picture of the sidecar action.“Sidecar races on the beach are awesome! We have a father-and-daughter team who are exceptional at what they do. They’ll come down the beach at close to 100 miles an hour, throw the bike sideways and slide past the barrel, the engine roaring as they power through the corner. It’s truly spectacular to watch.”He joined the event’s leadership in 2015 after a call from a local enthusiast, and reigniting the races in 2017 was a passion project. As a historic bike aficionado, Brenton is deeply invested in this biannual spectacle, which has become a must-see event on the Fleurieu, with a growing national reputation.Each event draws around 3,500 spectators and features an average of 170–175 motorcycles and sidecars, all meticulously organised by just 40 volunteers.“They’re either Levis members or from other historic race clubs,” he says, underscoring the community-driven nature of the event.The economic impact is significant, with an estimated $4.7 million pumped into the local economy through food, drink, and accommodation spending. Despite its success, the event maintains a modest footprint.“We’re limited by the size of the pits, which are in the car park of the Surf Life Saving Club,” Brenton says.Environmental and cultural heritage protection is also a top priority, with the event carefully scheduled to avoid disrupting the breeding season of the Hooded Plovers that nest on the beach.For competitors, the race is governed by Motorcycle Australia regulations, focusing on Historic Road Classes that span pre-war and post-war categories up to 1963. Entries are judged on whether they embody the spirit of the event.“Competitors send in photos and details of their bikes for consideration, and the race committee reviews them,” Brenton says.Spectators can expect an incredible line-up this year, including classes for under 250cc, 500cc, and open bikes, as well as sidecar scratch races. The finale will see a breathtaking Top 10 shootout featuring the fastest bikes on the beach, regardless of era.Despite its popularity, the organisers are committed to sustainability.“We don’t aim to make the event bigger every year,” Brenton says. “Instead, we focus on maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere—a picnic-style event where you can dig your toes in the sand, enjoy great racing, share some laughs, and relax with food and drinks.”The Sellicks Beach Historic Races will take place on March 15–16. For more information, visit levismcc.asn.au.Photo Brenton Matters.