Kangaroo Island Council has announced Jack Kay as its 2025 Young Achiever of the Year, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Island community.The council says Jack Kay impressed with his dedication, leadership and community spirit. “Whether volunteering his time, supporting local causes, or leading by example among his peers, Jack’s commitment to making a difference was clear.” He will receive a $150 prize.Also acknowledged was Ava Mills, whose positive impact and inspiring efforts earned her a High Commendation and a $100 award. This year, the council received six nominations for the Young Achiever of the Year Award, each highlighting the remarkable efforts of young Islanders across a range of fields. While only one recipient and one commendation were awarded, the council says it was a difficult decision given the calibre of nominees, who all make a positive impact in their communities.The awards will be presented as part of this year’s Settlement Day ceremony on Monday 28 July at the Pioneers Memorial on Kingscote Esplanade.The council invites the community to attend the address by Mayor Michael Pengilly at 10.30am, followed by guest speaker Jeff Howard and the awards presentation. A free community morning tea will be held at Kingscote Council Chambers at 11.30am.This annual event commemorates the arrival of South Australia’s first free settlers.“The Young Achiever Award is one of the most meaningful honours we can give,” says Mayor Michael Pengilly. “It shines a light on the next generation of leaders who already demonstrate the values that make our Island community so special. Jack and Ava should be incredibly proud.”

Alexandrina Council adopted its Annual Community Plan 2025/26 and Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2035 at a Special Meeting on Monday 7 July.“This Annual Community Plan reaffirms our commitment to keeping rates affordable while ensuring long-term financial sustainability,” says Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes.“The Plan works around an average rate increase of 3.05%, comprising the March Adelaide CPI of 2.2% and an additional 0.85% to support financial sustainability - reflecting the rising cost of maintaining public assets. “This average rate increase was proposed in the draft Annual Community Plan 2025/26.“This year’s budget and the Long Term Financial Plan are the result of months of work with our new Executive Team to reform Council’s finances and provide a sensible balance while looking towards improvements in the future.“This work has resulted in a significant reduction in forecast discretionary expenditure while continuing to deliver of all of Council’s existing community services and programs and providing full funding for the renewal of essential assets such as roads, footpaths, and buildings.“We have also taken major steps to address the concerns about the Council’s long-term financial sustainability raised in the Essential Services Commission of South Australia report released in February.“The work by Council Members and our Executive Team has significantly improved our financial outlook. “These actions have eased pressure on rates, reduce debt, and set us on course to return to surplus by 2027/28 - with strong, ongoing surpluses projected in following years.”Final capital value figures from the Office of the Valuer-General showed rate revenue growth reduced from 1.8% as forecast in the draft Annual Community Plan to 1.4% for the adopted Plan. This reduction has been offset by a reduction in discretionary rate rebates and additional income in CWMS fixed charges.The average residential property with 10.7% increase in capital value will experience an increase in general rates of $77 to $2,545, while the average primary production property with a 7.5% increase in capital value is increasing by $54 to $2,812.The council is proposing an operating deficit of $2.082 million, but says the Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2035 shows it remains on track to achieve a surplus by 2027/28, that it is able to reduce its debt from $46.6 million to $9.7 million by 2035 and that it has the financial capacity necessary to support its growing community.In the 2025/26 budget, $15.970 million will be set aside for capital expenditure on renewal of existing assets with $5.434 million for capital expenditure on new or upgraded assets.“I would like to thank everyone who participated in the public consultation process on the Annual Community Plan 2025/26,” Mayor Parkes says.“Council Members did listen to community feedback, and we brought forward the Middleton stormwater mitigation project into the 2025/26 financial year.“We are also delivering several small infrastructure projects requested by the community during public consultation and we have adopted a continuous improvement program.”Projects and budget adjustments made to the draft Annual Community Plan which were resolved by Council at the Special Council Meeting include the following:Inclusion of $70,000 for Albyn Terrace, Strathalbyn electrical works to install power outlets to support ‘Christmas Where the Angas Flows’ and other similar events.Decrease from $250,000 to $200,000 for the design of Strathalbyn Recreation Precinct (Lot 10).Decrease in information technology software budget - $150,000.A $30,000 decrease in grant program funding given the nature of some of the new operating projects for 2025/26.An increase of $10,000 to the Council contribution to the traffic management costs of ‘Christmas Where the Angas Flows’ event in Strathalbyn.Strathalbyn Swimming Pool season extension trail 2025/26 – $35,000.Burgess Oval Irrigation for the Mount Compass Cricket Club - $21,000.Goolwa Netball Club shelters - $10,000.Langhorne Creek Netball Club shed - $10,000.Community Survey - $30,000.Special contribution for 2025/26 for 10 community halls - $10,000 (total).Community Trees giveaway initiative - $5,000 (details to be confirmed).Stakeholder consultation on Cadell Street progressive tree replacement.

Drivers are advised to stay alert on the roads tomorrow, Friday, July 11, with mobile speed detection units set to operate throughout the Fleurieu Peninsula and across South Australia.As part of a continued focus on road safety, police have released a statewide list of speed camera locations, targeting areas with high traffic and known speeding issues. Whether you're heading into the city, travelling locally, or starting your weekend getaway, be sure to check your speed and drive responsibly.Below is the full list of camera locations scheduled for monitoring tomorrow. Let’s all do our part to ensure safer roads for everyone.ADAMS RD, CRAIGMOREBAINS RD, WOODCROFTBARRAMUNDI DR, HALLETT COVEBLACK TOP RD, HILLBANKBURTON RD, PARALOWIEDYSON RD, CHRISTIES BEACHEDUCATION RD, HAPPY VALLEYELIZABETH RD, MORPHETT VALEELIZABETH WAY, ELIZABETHFORDINGBRIDGE RD, DAVOREN PARKHILLIER RD, REYNELLAIFOULD RD, ELIZABETH PARKMAIN NORTH RD, ELIZABETH DOWNSMAIN SOUTH RD, MORPHETT VALEMIDWAY RD, ELIZABETH PARKPHILIP HWY, ELIZABETHRIVER RD, PORT NOARLUNGAROY TCE, CHRISTIES BEACHSALISBURY HWY, PARAFIELD GARDENSSHEREBROOKE BVD, WOODCROFTSHERRIFFS RD, MORPHETT VALESHERRIFFS RD, LONSDALESTEBONHEATH RD, DAVOREN PARKTARGET HILL RD, SALISBURY HEIGHTSWHITES RD, PARALOWIE

The Fleurieu Coast has again borne the brunt of recent winter storms, with more damage done to the Second Valley jetty causeway this week.Part of the heritage listed stone causeway has collapsed and District Council of Yankalilla Mayor Darryl Houston told ABC radio it could take some time to repair as only certain people are qualified to do such work.Second Valley Caravan Park & Jetty Store posted to Facebook that the jetty held up well, but the stone walkway just past the bridge that has sustained damage.The jetty has now been closed, joining the Normanville jetty and other facilities in the region in need of significant repairs following storm damage in May and June.Very high tides, strong winds and heavy surf  have impacted jetties, causeways and beach stairs at  Normanville, Carrickalinga, Second Valley, Rapid Bay, Myponga Beach and Cape Jervis.The council was forced to close its own offices on Tuesday 8 July due to a power outage caused by storm damage.

The state government will provide immediate, backdated fee relief for commercial fishers, aquaculture and charter boat operators impacted by the algal bloom affecting South Australia’s coastline. It says a significant harmful algal bloom, caused by the species Karenia mikimotoi, has been impacting large areas of South Australia’s coastline since March 2025. The naturally occurring algal bloom has caused widespread marine mortalities and disruption to commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations. Some operators in the Marine Scalefish Fishery have experienced declines in catch and economic viability, particularly in Gulf St Vincent, Kangaroo Island, and the Yorke Peninsula. Some oyster growers and pipi harvesters have also been affected. Charter boat operations and fisheries around the River Murray mouth and Lakes and Coorong have been impacted to varying degrees.South coast fishing charter business Pirate's Sea Charter's has suspended operations indefinitely, posting to Facebook:"Unfortunately we regrettably advise that we are currently NOT doing any charters due to the impact of the algal bloom in the Fleurieu region. The impact has been devastating to the area with fish becoming scarce and sparse. Please keep in touch and we hope to be back running charters soon!"The business also operates The Pirate's Se Chest fish market in Encounter Bay and it is sourcing all its produce from outside the areas affected by the algal bloom to ensure safety.On Friday 4 July, the state government hosted a forum with key stakeholders affected by the algal bloom and a number raised fee relief as a measure that could provide immediate help. In recognition of the ongoing impact it will offer an initial relief package to affected licence holders to waive fees from April to June 2025, which will equate to an estimated $500,000 worth of fee relief. Eligible fees for relief consideration include:PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture annual licence fees.Biosecurity SA Food Safety Scheme and audit fees.Aquaculture lease and licence fees.Acting Premier and Environment Minister Susan Close says the state government has been meeting with commercial fishers and tourism operators to better understand the impacts harmful Karenia mikimotoi algal bloom has had on their businesses. “As well as today’s fee relief, the State Government continues to explore research priorities and industry supports so we can help to mitigate future outbreaks and the effect it has on industry. “We will continue to work with the fishing and tourism industries to support them through this difficult time and continue to look at research and recovery investment options.”  Ben Barnes is Chairperson of the South Australian Professional Fishers Association and has welcomed the announcement of fee relief.  “This support recognises the severe and sustained disruption our fishers have faced over recent months, with many experiencing reduced catches, lost income, and long-term uncertainty. “Waiving licence and associated fees during this period is a practical and appreciated step that will help ease financial pressure while operators work to recover from the impacts of this natural event.” Shadow Environment Minister and Finniss MP David Basham has welcomed the fee relief but says it does not go far enough and falls short of addressing the full scale of the crisis in SA waters.He says many impacted businesses are small, family-run operations and communities that need clear information, ongoing support, and a plan for recovery."Our main concern is that without further action to address cost recovery pressures and urgent cash flow support, many licensed fishers may be forced out of the industry permanently.“We also don't know the true impact of the algal bloom on fish stocks - nor do we know how long it will take to recover from what has been described as a bushfire underwater.“After a bushfire, there are systems and processes in place which allow for plans to be developed, and damage to be assessed - the algal bloom is no exception, and there must be measures like this in place to ensure the sustainability of the fishing industry moving forward.The Department of Primary Industries and Regions will continue working with the Marine Fishers Association, the South Australian Professional Fishers Association and the South Australian Oyster Growers Association  to assess the scale of the impact and target support.Impacted licence holders are encouraged to work with their industry association to access the fee relief process. Industry associations are compiling claims and submitting them to PIRSA for assessment. Those who are not members of an association can contact PIRSA directly via telephone on 8207 5332, or via email.  Fisheries and aquaculture licence holders facing financial hardship due to the algal bloom are eligible for the South Australian Government Rural Support Grant, administered by the RBS Relief Fund, where individuals can receive up to $1,500 in financial assistance to help cover essential household expenses such as utilities, groceries, rates and medical costs. Support is also available for licence holders facing financial hardship through the Rural Financial Counselling Service and the Family and Business Support Program.For more information visit the PIRSA website.   

The first release of homes at a new coastal estate at Noarlunga has gone on sale, delivering high-quality, affordable housing to the area. The Noarlunga development will include over 620 dwellings, aligned with the Premier’s Housing Roadmap, with releases in coming months featuring a mix of larger land parcels, premium house and land packages, and sought-after locations. Eleven affordable house and land packages have been listed at Noarlunga development, through HomeSeeker SA, with prices starting from $525,000. Some eligible packages also include up to 25 per cent shared equity through the  HomeStart scheme. The homes are a mix of two and three-bedroom, semi-detached townhouses, located along the north-western edge of the development, and will be built by South Australian builder UrbanLux. Renewal SA aims to release approximately 80 additional opportunities to purchase in Noarlunga throughout the second half of 2025. Civil works are underway to prepare roads, sewers and essential services ahead of the construction of the first homes and public spaces. Construction of the first homes is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the first residents expected to move in by the end of next year. As home construction progresses, early planning is also underway for the first public open spaces within the development.An entry reserve will be built off Dyson Road providing an area of approximately 2000sqm for the community, with an additional central reserve of 935sqm space also to be delivered within this early stage. Construction of these open spaces will begin in mid-2026, with both parks expected to open to the community by late-2026. Twelve and a half percent of the 22-hectare development will be dedicated to public open space, unlocking green pockets throughout the estate for the new community. Renewal SA engaged with the local community in 2024 to seek input into the plan for the development of the previously vacant land, following its 2023 announcement of the new master planned community. Delivered in partnership with the South Australian Housing Trust, the Noarlunga development will offer a mix of direct-to-market housing, affordable housing and social housing. Renewal SA will also explore the potential for affordable rentals managed by a community housing provider. Deputy Mayor of City of Onkaparinga Lauren Jew says the community has made it clear that having a variety of homes to suit people’s needs is vital for the future of the area. “We’re really pleased the state government is committed to making this development a practical example of what can be achieved, including a minimum 28 per cent affordable and social housing to support those who are missing out in the current market. “Council is committed to playing its part in making our city liveable and sustainable into the future, and we’ve approved a new affordable housing strategy to do just that. We look forward to welcoming new residents to this centrally located, high-quality development.” The development spans two land parcels on either side of Lovelock Drive, within the suburbs of Port Noarlunga and Noarlunga Downs.President of South Adelaide Football Club Geoff Baynes says this new well planned development will meet the needs of the local community.“The Club, as the leading community sporting club in the South, is committed to providing the sport and recreational connections for the families who will live in the new community.“As a community sporting organisation we embrace the opportunities that present themselves due to having a close knit family oriented development right on our doorsteps and will do everything to welcome everyone to our community complex.”Visit the website for more information.       

Regenerating agricultural land can seem like a mammoth task with few short-term rewards, but for Delamere beef and sheep farmers Ben and Julianne Ryan, noticeable improvements in soil health and structure have been achieved in just four years on their property.Since leasing the parcel of land on the Fleurieu Peninsula in 2020, the Ryans have adopted regenerative grazing practices that have reduced soil compaction and improved the soil’s ability to absorb water, oxygen and nutrients.Bonnie Armour is Carbon Farming and Soil Extension Officer at Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu. She says the Ryans have vastly improved soil and pasture health in a relatively short timeframe by implementing some foundational regenerative agriculture principles.“Ben and Julianne have considered the state of their environment, pasture plants and weeds, and have reduced their chemical and fertiliser inputs,” she says.“Importantly, they’ve managed the grazing of stock to change their landscape, de-stocking when appropriate to work with the capacity of the land.”During a recent visit, Ms Armour conducted soil tests and was impressed by the improvements compared to the property's 2020 findings.“There’s a great diversity of pasture plants with significant tap roots, which shows resilience in the soil,” she says.“Visiting the property, it was great to see the overall soil strength and moisture in the soil profile and the cattle looked extremely healthy.”Regenerative agriculture focuses on enhancing soil by restoring five key landscape functions: solar energy capture, water cycle efficiency, soil-mineral dynamics, ecosystem diversity, and human-social connections.In practice, this involves looks minimising soil disturbance through no-till methods, maintaining surface vegetation (green growing cover is most effective) and keeping living roots in the soil for as long as possible. Regenerative principles also focus on enhancing soil biological diversity by using a mix of perennial pasture species and caring for native vegetation. Strategic livestock grazing and resting periods further support these goals, helping to reduce the need for inputs such as fertilisers and herbicides.“Ben and Julianne’s pastures and farming systems are a great case study, demonstrating how small gains can be made to soil health in a relatively short time. Little changes can have a big impact – if you're ready to explore regenerative practices for your own land, our team is here to support you,” Ms Armour says.Learn more about regenerative agriculture principles, including connecting with local networks and viewing local case studies on the Landscape SA website. landscape.sa.gov.au/hf/regenagThis project is funded by the South Australian Government’s Landscape Priorities Fund, which redistributes landscape levies collected by Green Adelaide in the metropolitan area to regional landscape boards. The event is also supported by the SA Soils Collaboration Centre and the Soils Knowledge Network.

Learn how to save on heating costs and stay warm this winter at a Strathalbyn workshop to learn energy-saving tips for the home.Alexandrina Council, in collaboration with Second Nature Conservancy and Green Adelaide, will host a winter-smart workshop on Tuesday 15 July.It will be held at the Strathalbyn Natural Resource Centre from 6pm to 7.30pm.The workshop will include practical energy-saving tips and information about where homes consume the most energy and what can be done about it.An energy assessor expert will lead the event, which is open to all residents, renters and homeowners. A light supper will also be provided.It is free to attend, but bookings are essential, via Humanitix..

A new $20 million round of grants to help South Australian businesses reduce their energy costs opens this month – and for the first time will be extended to medium sized businesses. The Powering Business Grants are funded under the state government’s $154 million Business Growth Fund. Applications will open later this month for eligible businesses and not-for-profits with up to 199 employees. They will be able to apply for grants of up to $75,000 to invest in energy efficient equipment to help reduce their power bills. The government will match the business dollar for dollar to assist them to purchase equipment such as solar panels, batteries, more energy efficient equipment such as refrigerators, freezers or dishwashers or to make improvements to their building to ensure more efficient heating and cooling. The previous round saw more than 1000 businesses across South Australia share in $23.6 million worth of grants. This is reducing their power bills by approximately $24 million a year, as calculated by the businesses at the time of their application, according to the state government. The top three industries to receive grants were retail, hospitality and accommodation and manufacturing. The most popular equipment installed was battery and solar systems followed by more energy efficient appliances and motors, pumps and compressors. Noori on the Mid Coast at Port Noarlunga received a grant for a battery and kitchen upgrades that is now saving them more than $1500 per year on their power bill. Minister for Small and Family Business Andrea Michaels is encouraging business owners tothink about what they may like to apply for now and to get in early once applications open.“We know that power bills are a particular pain point for businesses and so this grant is providing real relief where it is needed with businesses in the last round saving thousands of dollars each quarter on their power bill.” For more information about the Powering Business Grants and to register interest visit the website.   

A pedestrian has died following a crash at Old Reynella this morning.About 5.20am on Monday 7 July, emergency services were called to Main South Road, Old Reynella after reports that a ute had collided with a pedestrian.Sadly, the pedestrian, a 43-year-old man, died at the scene.The driver of the ute, a 58-year-old Port Noarlunga man, was not physically injured in the crash.Major Crash officers attended and examined the scene.Northbound traffic was closed for several hours on Main South Road but has since reopened.The man's death is the 41st life lost on South Australian roads so far this year.Anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has CCTV or dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online. 

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.