More than 200 bales of hay will be delivered to drought-impacted farmers on Kangaroo Island this week in a hay drop, made possible through the state government’s Drought Support Package. Charity Rural Aid will deliver more than 150 tonnes of hay to 19 Kangaroo Island farmers over two days today, 18 June and next week, on 25 June.Rural Aid CEO John Warlters says this hay drop represents a significant and much-needed show of support for farmers on Kangaroo Island. “They’ve battled through some of the toughest seasons on record, and this delivery will help ease the burden during a critical time.“It’s a privilege to stand alongside these resilient communities and let them know they’re not forgotten.” The hay run is supported by the state government’s $6 million Drought Donated Fodder Transport Assistance Scheme, which helps charities with their transport costs to deliver donated fodder to farmers who need assistance to feed their livestock. So far, it has funded the transport costs of charities to deliver more than 9,800 tonnes of donated hay to over 1,200 farmers across South Australia. It is actively working with Rural Aid, Need for Feed, Rapid Relief Team, Farmers Relief Agency, and the SA Dairyfarmers’ Association, whose participation provides specific support to dairy farmers across South Australia. Primary producers are encouraged to contact participating organisations directly to understand what types of fodder are available and to register their interest. For more information about drought assistance visit the PIRSA website.   

A 37-year-old Adelaide man has been reported for drink driving after being caught with a blood alcohol reading more than five times the legal limit at Encounter Bay.Police stopped the man on Mill Road, Encounter Bay, around 7.30pm on Tuesday, 17 June, for a mobile driver test. He returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.252.The man was issued a 12-month instant loss of licence and had his vehicle impounded for 28 days. He will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

The historic Hardys Tintara winery in McLaren Vale will stop making wine as parent company Vinarchy transitions operations to the Riverland and the Barossa.Vinarchy announced the change in early June, as part of a long-term growth plan that includes establishing two winemaking hubs in South Australia, with the company’s global corporate headquarters to be located in Adelaide.Winemaking currently undertaken at Hardy’s Tintara winery will move to Rowland Flat for the 2026 and 2027 vintages.Chief Supply Officer Joe Russo says Vinarchy recogises the rich local history in McLaren Vale.“Adopting this twin-hub structure at Berri Estates and Rowland Flat allows us to consolidate our resources and expertise, strengthening the business and ensuring we remain competitive in the face of ongoing challenges in the global wine market.”“While our winemaking will move, our commitment to quality wines, local sourcing and premium cellar door experiences for these brands do not change.“These wines will be made with the same grapes from the same regions, by the same winemakers, just at another winery.”He says Vinarchy recognises these changes may create uncertainty for team members and is committed to supporting its people as changes are implemented progressively over the next 12 months.“We are deeply mindful of the impact these changes may have on our people.“Where roles are affected, we are committed to supporting our teams through redeployment opportunities to other locations in many cases, or, where necessary, redundancy and outplacement support. We will continue to consult closely with our teams over the coming months as we make this transition.”Vinarchy was established earlier this year after the takeover of Accolade Wines by French company Pernod Ricard.

The Science Collective will present the Victor Harbor Science Fair on Sunday 29 June at the Recreation Centre.Supported by the City of Victor Harbor, this will be the fourth time the fair has brought all things science with hands-on activities for all ages.SciFiBri will bring the Fire and Froth Show and Animals Anonymous will offer the chance to get up close with wildlife.Fleurieu Marine Education and the Marine Discovery Centre will have marine science displays and the Roboroos team will demonstrate robotics for those intrigued by technology.SciWorld's huge inflatable Starlab will guide a journey through the night sky and IgniteVR will offer an engaging virtual reality experience. There will be recycling tips, a Toddlers Corner, the Aces Magic Show, Dr Who’s Daleks and more. The Rotary Club of Victor Harbor will put on a sausage sizzle and Laynies Coffee van will the adults’ caffeine fix.There will be two sessions, from 9.30am to 12.30pm and from 1pm to 4pm. Tickets  cost $9, or $29 for a family of four and can be booked online. 

Alexandrina Council will hold an information drop-in session at the Signal Point Experience Centre on Thursday 26 June.The session is to discuss a proposed amendment to the state government Planning and Design Code that affects parcels of land within the Goolwa Wharf precinct.A Goolwa Wharf Subzone will better reflect the precinct’s unique character, rich First Nations heritage, and its important role in the state's riverboat and steam railway history, according to the council.The intention is to shift the focus from solely marine transport to a wider view on community, tourist, cultural and recreational aspirations. The information day at Signal Point will run from 10.30am to 3.30pm. More information about the proposed Code Amendment can be found on Alexandrina Council’s My Say website. The page includes a fact sheet, a map of the proposed Goolwa Wharf Subzone and a survey to enable feedback on the idea. The deadline for community input is Friday 11 July.

Strathalbyn has been chosen as a host town for the 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour, and the iconic Melbourne Cup Trophy will visit the Strathalbyn Racing Club on Wednesday 2 July for a special community event.The Our Town Our Track Our Day event will run from 12noon to 3pm, with the $5 entry feedonated to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.This nationally celebrated tour recognises the heart and spirit of the towns that keep up the traditions of horse racing. The local event is designed to honour Strathalbyn’s community, racing history, and local businesses.This will include stall displays and marquees, Cup Tour days specials, window displays and decorations throughout the town.In the morning there will be community visits to Strathalbyn & Districts Aged Care Facility and Eastern Fleurieu 7-12 School.The Cup will then travel to Strathalbyn Racing Club via horse-drawn carriage for the main event, which will feature a talk by former Melbourne Cup jockey Clare Lindop, ‘local legends’ story time, a local art and produce showcase, food trucks and Langhorne Creek wine tastings.

Cockle Train services were curtailed over the weekend for safety reasons, with trains running only between Goolwa and Port Elliot.SteamRanger, which runs the popular tourist attraction, advised that recent wet weather has caused destabilisation of the dunes and hillside around Hayborough.This has resulted in a land slip above the railway track that is threatening the rail corridor between Port Elliot and Victor Harbor.With more rain forecast there was the risk of a second landslip, so it was not safe for passengers and crew to run the service to Victor Harbor.SteamRanger says it is working with relevant stakeholders to stabilise the site. 

Fleurieu and KI dog and cat owners are being urged to ensure their pet’s details are up to date in the state-wide register ahead of annual registration renewals.In July renewal notices will be sent to dog and cat owners across the state and, to ensure a renewal notice is received, the Dog and Cat Management Board is calling on pet owners to update or register their information in Dogs and Cats Online this week.In South Australia, all dogs and cats must be desexed, microchipped and registered in Dogs and Cats Online within 14 days of taking ownership if the pet is older than three months.Dog and Cat Management Board Chair David Parkin says it is vital that owners take the time to update details and to register their pets as soon as possible.“If your pet happens to escape, the details on their microchip can be the difference of whether or not they can be returned to you,” he says.“For cats specifically, shelters have reported that 97 per cent of cats can’t be returned because owners have not registered a microchip in Dogs and Cats Online and kept the information up to date.“It is also important to note that, just because your pet is microchipped, it doesn’t automatically mean they are registered in Dogs and Cats Online. Microchip details might be listed on other databases, but in SA it is a requirement for them to be included in Dogs and Cats Online.“We strongly recommend that all pet owners head to Dogs and Cats Online to ensure their pets are registered on the site and that their details are up to date.”Owners will have until August 31 to complete their renewals in Dogs and Cats Online and pay any associated fees, or risk possible late fees.Anyone who needs help to register a dog or cat, contact the local council.The Board’s website has information on the state dog and cat laws, along with tips for potential and current owners.

This week, RSPCA South Australia is featuring two incredibly lovable cats, Cuddles and Ollie, as our Pets of the Week! These two are bonded best friends and are looking for their forever home together. For a limited time, you can adopt them both for just $90.💕 About Cuddles & OllieCuddles (pink nose, female) is the confident one who adores snuggles and loves to look out for her best friend.Ollie (black nose, male) is a little more timid at first, but once he settles in, he turns into a purr machine who loves cuddles and smooches.Together, they’re the perfect pair — affectionate, sweet, and happiest when curled up with their humans, soaking up attention and giving gentle head nudges in return.🏡 Their Ideal Home✅ Adaptable to most home environments ✅ A calm, patient family who can give Ollie time to settle ✅ Must be adopted together ✅ Slow introduction if other pets are in the home (the RSPCA SA cat team can provide advice)📍 Visit Cuddles (AID 195073) & Ollie (AID 195074) at RSPCA South Australia’s O’Halloran Hill animal care campus or learn more at www.rspcasa.org.au.

Biodiversity Victor Harbor will host a Community Planting Festival on The Bluff on Saturday 21 June.The community is invited give as much time as they can spare, between 9am and 3pm,  to help plant 2,500 native seedlings and make The Bluff bloom.Planting will take place next to the lower car park and Rotary Victor Harbor will provide a sausage sizzle for purchase. Tea, coffee and water will also be availableBiodiversity Victor Harbor has partnered with City of Victor Harbor to run the event as part of Whalefest.It has been funded by Bupa and Landcare Australia and is part of the planting of over 80,000 trees and plants across Australia, linking environmental health with community well-being.They say The Bluff Reserve is botanically, culturally and geologically, one of the region’s most significant reserves.Volunteers are asked to register online to help with planning and to find out where to go and what to take along. 

NRMA Insurance and Australian Red Cross will host an EmergencyRediTM Workshop to help Yankalilla residents prepare for extreme weather on Wednesday 18 June at Club Fleurieu.With extreme weather becoming more frequent and severe, Yankalilla residents are encouraged to attend the free workshop to help get prepared.It will provide participants with insights into local weather risks and practical support on how to prepare for an emergency.Research from NRMA Insurance shows a need for greater emergency preparedness as nearly 1 in 4 Australians (23 per cent) do not have a good understanding of extreme weather risks in their local area, and 1 in 3 are not aware of the steps they need to take to prepare for an extreme weather emergency. Additionally, 61 per cent of Australians do not have an emergency plan to help them respond to an extreme weather event.The EmergencyRedi workshops help people learn about local risks and gain useful knowledge and tools to prepare for future emergencies. Attendees build their own award-winning Australian Red Cross emergency RediPlan, which includes key contacts, meeting places, animal plans, key documents, special items, medical information and stress management strategies. The workshop forms part of Help Nation, an initiative created by NRMA Insurance to unite people, communities and organisations across Australia to get prepared and know their local extreme weather risks.The Yankalilla workshop will be held from 2pm to 3.30pm at Club Fleurieu on Main South Road.To register for the Australian Red Cross EmergencyRediTM workshop and learn more about how to get prepared for extreme weather, visit the website.

City of Onkaparinga has been recognised as a Tree City of the World by the Arbor Day Foundation and Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), one of 210 internationally.It becomes one of 11 Australian cities honoured by the title, five of which are in South Australia.The international Tree Cities of the World program recognises cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the liveability and sustainability of their local area. It is jointly operated by FAO, a specialised agency of the United Nations, and the US Arbor Day Foundation and aligns with FAO’s Green Cities initiative, which is designed to strengthen green infrastructure in urban and rural communities. “Tree Cities of the World is more than a recognition program. It’s a rapidly growing global movement, transforming how communities view and value their urban forest,” says Sophie Plitt, program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation. “It goes beyond borders, connecting passionate organisers and tireless tree planters, and uniting them under the shared mission of making our world’s communities healthier places to live.” To earn Tree Cities of the World recognition, a city must uphold five core standards: establish responsibility for the care of trees; enact a law or policy that governs the management of trees and forests; maintain an updated assessment of local tree resources; allocate resources for a tree management plan; and hold an annual celebration of trees to educate local residents. In its newsletter Onkaparinga Now, the City of Onkaparinga says its recent development of a Tree Management Policy to help grow, establish, maintain and protect the hundreds-of-thousands of trees under the council’s care and control helped boost its application for the program. Setting up the One Tree Per Child Onkaparinga community program and tree giveaway events to encourage planting native species on private land also helped.“These initiatives were complemented by the council’s canopy mapping across the city, and achieving 63,000 trees planted towards our target of 100,000 trees in street verges, waterways and parks by 2037.“The council needs to uphold strict standards to maintain its accreditation, and any improvements to the region’s urban forest means Onkaparinga’s people, places and wildlife are better off.“There are a range of benefits to being part of the program on top of the international recognition, including being able to tap into the Tree Cities of the World global network – sharing and adapting best practices for managing urban trees and forests.”Find out more about Tree Cities of the World on the website.

As we head into the weekend, motorists are reminded that mobile speed cameras will be active across the Fleurieu Peninsula and throughout South Australia tomorrow, Friday, June 13.Police continue to monitor key roads as part of ongoing efforts to reduce speeding and keep all road users safe. With many locals and visitors travelling throughout the region and into the city, drivers are urged to stay vigilant, follow speed limits, and drive with care.A full list of mobile speed camera locations for tomorrow has been released. Remember — safe driving helps protect everyone on our roads.Friday, 13 June 2025ADDISON RD, PENNINGTONBAINS RD, MORPHETT VALEBARCELONA RD, NOARLUNGA DOWNSBARTLEY TCE, WEST LAKES SHORECOTTAGE LANE, HACKHAMDAVID WITTON DR, NOARLUNGA CENTREEASTERN PDE, GILLMANFLETCHER RD, BIRKENHEADHARGRAVE ST, BIRKENHEADHILLIER RD, REYNELLAMAIN SOUTH RD, HUNTFIELD HEIGHTSMAIN SOUTH RD, HACKHAMMAIN SOUTH RD, MORPHETT VALEMARLBOROUGH ST, FULHAM GARDENSMCKINNA RD, CHRISTIE DOWNSMILITARY RD, WEST LAKES SHOREO'SULLIVAN BEACH RD, LONSDALEOLD SOUTH RD, OLD REYNELLAPORT RD, QUEENSTOWNRIVER RD, PORT NOARLUNGASAINT VINCENT ST, PORT ADELAIDESOUTHERN EXP, LONSDALETAPLEYS HILL RD, FULHAMVICTORIA RD, PETERHEADVICTORIA RD, LARGS NORTHANZAC RD, PORT PIRIE WESTAUGUSTA HWY, LOCHIELAUGUSTA HWY, SNOWTOWNAUGUSTA HWY, CRYSTAL BROOKAUGUSTA HWY, REDHILLAUGUSTA HWY, NAPPERBYBARRIER HWY, HALLETTBARRIER HWY, HALLETTBARUNGA GAP RD, SNOWTOWNBAY RD, MOUNT GAMBIERCOCKBURN RD, JAMESTOWNCOCKBURN RD, JAMESTOWNCOMMERCIAL EAST ST, MOUNT GAMBIERDUKES HWY, KI KIDUKES HWY, TAILEM BENDDUKES HWY, YUMALIDUKES HWY, TINTINARADUKES HWY, BORDERTOWNDUKES HWY, COONALPYNDUKES HWY, KEITHFARRELL FLAT RD, CLAREGADD AVE, CRYSTAL BROOKGOYDER HWY, CRYSTAL BROOKGREY TCE, PORT PIRIEHURLSTONE ST, PETERBOROUGHMAIN NORTH RD, CLAREMAIN NORTH RD, CLAREMAIN RD, PORT PIRIEMAIN ST, PETERBOROUGHMARY ELIE ST, PORT PIRIEMOPPETT RD, PORT PIRIE WESTMOUNT GAMBIER RD, MILLICENTNORTH TCE, MOUNT GAMBIERPENOLA RD, MOUNT GAMBIERPICK AVE, MOUNT GAMBIERPIGEON FLAT RD, BORDERTOWNPRINCES HWY, MILLICENTQUEENS AVE, MOUNT GAMBIERRIDDOCH HWY, NARACOORTERIDDOCH HWY, PENOLARIDDOCH HWY, COONAWARRARIDDOCH HWY, NANGWARRYSHEPHERDSON RD, MOUNT GAMBIERSOUTHERN PORTS HWY, BEACHPORTSTURT ST, MOUNT GAMBIERSUTTONTOWN RD, MOUNT GAMBIERWANDEARAH RD, PORT PIRIEWANDEARAH RD, PORT PIRIE SOUTHWEHL ST, MOUNT GAMBIERWILKINS HWY, JAMESTOWN

The state Opposition is calling for an independent investigation into the response to the toxic algal bloom that has been detected in waters across South Australia – following the latest detection in the Coorong’s north lagoon.Since the harmful algal bloom was first detected in March, it has caused the death of marine life across the state – prompting concerns from both locals and ecologists who fear it may become a yearly occurrence if the cause is not investigated and determined.Shadow Minister for Environment and Finniss MP David Basham says this environmental disaster has had a devastating impact on aquaculture industries and coastal towns.“We are calling for an independent review into the response to this disaster so that we determine the exact cause and ensure that we’re doing everything we can to prevent more algal blooms in the years to come,” he says.“Locals, in both my electorate and beyond, have been incredibly frustrated at the lack of information about the health and environmental impact of the algal bloom.“If the Environment Minister is suggesting this won’t be the last time we see an algal bloom like this occur, then we need to do everything we can to learn from this incident and improve the response next time.“The Government has a poor track record of investigating itself and any review must be independent of government departments to ensure the public get the answers they deserve.”Mr Basham has written to Environment Minster Susan Close to formally request the investigation.

Police are investigating a serious crash involving three vehicles overnight, following a high-speed incident where one car allegedly failed to stop for police.At around 9pm on Wednesday, June 11, officers detected a white Holden Commodore sedan travelling at a dangerous speed of 146 km/h in a 60 km/h zone along Port Elliot Road, Middleton.Police patrols later sighted the vehicle in Goolwa, where it performed a u-turn. Officers activated their lights and sirens in an attempt to pull the vehicle over, but the driver refused to stop. The pursuit was called off shortly after, as the Commodore entered a 100 km/h zone on Port Elliot Road, heading back towards Middleton.Just minutes later, emergency services were called to the scene of a three-car collision at the intersection of Port Elliot Road and Boettcher Road.The 41-year-old alleged driver of the Commodore sustained serious injuries and was transported to hospital. A 65-year-old woman from Goolwa South, driving a Land Rover that rolled in the crash, also required hospital treatment. Both are reported to have non-life-threatening injuries.The third driver, a 35-year-old man from Goolwa North, was uninjured after his vehicle was clipped during the incident.All vehicles involved were towed from the scene, and the roadway has since been cleared and reopened to traffic.Police investigations are ongoing. Charges are expected to be laid against the driver of the Commodore for multiple driving offences.

The future of Port Stanvac is set to take shape with the public release of the site’s Master Plan, outlining a vision for the redevelopment of Adelaide’s southern coastline. The state government says this milestone heralds the next phase in transforming the former oil refinery into a thriving community hub, blending homes, businesses and open spaces while restoring public access to the coast. The development will return the site of the fomer oil refinery to the community and see Port Stanvac redeveloped area for a mix of housing, business and community services.City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were has welcomed the announcement.“The transformation of Port Stanvac is a unique, one-off opportunity to drive new economic, social and environmental benefits to Onkaparinga and the state. “Following years of advocacy from the council, community and local businesses, we’re focused on working with the state government and MAB to ensure Onkaparinga’s wishes are front of mind to deliver a balance of affordable housing, industrial land supply and open space, including access to the stunning coastline.” Around 8,000 people are expected to be able to live in the new Port Stanvac, with an expected economic boost to the local community of $508 million. The release of the Master Plan coincides with the initiation of a new code amendment that will allow planning to proceed on the development site. It seeks to officially unlock the 230-hectare area, allowing for up to 3,600 new residential dwellings, including a mix of apartments, townhouses, aged care, serviced accommodation as well as low density allotments. Approximately 64 hectares of the area will be dedicated to employment uses, including retail and commercial uses within a neighbourhood centre. The development will also unlock 40 hectares of coastline, with plans to preserve sensitive environmental areas. More than 30 per cent of the site is planned to become open space. Reynell MP Katrine Hildyard says the release of this master plan is the start of what will be a significant redevelopment for the southern community. “This proposal opens up one of the most beautiful coastal locations in South Australia. It will be welcomed by O’Sullivan Beach and other nearby residents who have long advocated for access to this stunning beach, as well as for more green space and sporting fields, and housing for their kids and grandkids." Port Stanvac is close to major transport routes with Lonsdale/ Dyson Road and the Seaford train line including the Lonsdale train station, located immediately east of the site.

City of Victor Harbor’s Active Wellbeing Program will offer two free yoga and dance activities at Carrickalinga House on Saturday 21 June.To celebrate International Yoga Day, there will be three yoga sessions at 9.15am, 11.15am and 4pm.The first session is a gentle Hatha yoga class; session two is chair yoga and meditation; while session three will comprise flow, yin and relaxation.It’s all about connection — to self, others, and the wider world – so everyone, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners are welcome to join in.The evening will see a DJ and dance session at 6pm, featuring free-form mindful movement and dance guided by music.Bookings are essential on the council website to secure a place. 

Kangaroo Island Council is inviting community input on its 2025/26 Draft Annual Business Plan and Budget, which is now open for public consultation until 5pm, Tuesday 1 July.It says the draft plan outlines a realistic and responsible approach to fiscal repair, with the council implementing a multi-year budget stabilisation plan to strengthen long-term financial sustainability. The plan focuses on delivering essential services and community infrastructure while reducing debt, limiting expenditure, and adopting lean operational practices over the next two years, all while keeping the proposed 4 per cent rate increase for the 2025/26 financial year among the lowest in the state.“I’m committed to leading Council through this period of fiscal discipline,” says CEO Daryl Buckingham. “Our focus must be on reducing debt, streamlining services, and ensuring every dollar delivers value for the community. The 2025–2026 Annual Business Plan provides a pathway toward a more financially sustainable future, without compromising what matters most to Islanders.”To help residents better understand the proposed plan and contribute to the discussion, the council will host an informal session on Thursday 26 June at Kingscote Town Hall from 5.30pm. The community is encouraged to attend, speak directly with council staff and elected councillors, and ask questions in a relaxed, one-on-one setting.“These are important conversations, and we’re committed to working openly with residents throughout this process,” Mr Buckingham says.Mayor Michael Pengilly says, “Kangaroo Island is facing some tough financial decisions, but by working together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable Council. Community feedback is crucial to getting this right.”Topics expected to generate interest include:The proposed rate movement and its implications.Council’s debt reduction strategy.Long-term goals for financial sustainability.Planned capital and operational projects.For those unable to attend in person, the session will also be accessible online via Microsoft Teams.Feedback can also be submitted online.

The 2025-26 State Budget has provided welcome funding for some important road upgrades, according to the RAA, but road maintenance funding remains insufficient to address South Australia’s growing $2 billion backlog.The State Budget has allocated funding for a number of road and transport projects, including:$125 million to progress the High Productivity Vehicle Route which includes the Adelaide Hills Freight Bypass.$125 million to fund the $250 million Curtis Road level crossing removal project.$40m to fund the $80m upgrade of Main South Road between Myponga and Yankalilla.$110m road safety package including additional funding for road safety maintenance and safety cameras.$20.7m over four years to reduce public transport fares for students.$12.5 million to make on-demand bus services permanent in Mount Barker. RAA Chief Executive Officer Nick Reade says while these road and infrastructure projects are welcome, it appears South Australia’s $2 billion road maintenance backlog will continue to increase.“Ahead of this state budget, we called for $1 billion over four years to begin tackling our $2 billion road maintenance backlog which amounts to more than 2,500 km of our road network,” Mr Reade says.“That means the condition of our roads will continue to deteriorate, resulting in more potholes, crumbling shoulders and cracks that cause a risk to safety and wear and tear on vehicles.RAA has also welcomed the decision to make on-demand bus services permanent in Mount Barker, which has been a long-held advocacy position for RAA, but says it should be extended to the Fleurieu.“The on-demand bus service has been extremely popular in Mount Barker and RAA has been calling for some time to make this service permanent.“RAA continues to call on the Government to trial on-demand services in other regional and outer suburb regions like Victor Harbor and Goolwa.”