Kangaroo Island council has called for community involvement to combat a spate of vandalism across the island in recent weeks.Several acts of vandalism have been reported at council-managed sites, including Vivonne Bay Campground, Duck Lagoon, Reeves Point and the Kingscote Tidal Pool.The damage has included broken toilets, showers, soap dispensers and sharps units, graffiti, arson, damaged barbecues and theft of supplies, batteries and wiring.The clean-up and repair bill has reached almost $6000 in materials, labour and emergency callouts over the past month.The council says the cost has been approximately $1,630 at Duck Lagoon, $2,180 at Reeves Point, $1,700 at Kingscote Tidal Pool and $320 at Vivonne Bay. It says this repeated damage puts pressure on already limited resources, delays upgrades, and risks temporary closure of public facilities.Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour or knows anything that might assist in addressing the vandalism problem is asked to contact SAPOL on 131 444 or callCrime Stoppers on1800 333 000.

The City of Victor Harbor has announced a new Farm Business Support Grant Program, following a special council meeting on Monday 7 April.The program aims to provide assistance to local agribusinesses facing challenges due to current dry weather conditions.Grants will help farm businesses within the City of Victor Harbor council area maintain operations with funding to cover essential and unavoidable business expenses.The program was officially launched yesterday, Monday 14 April, providing an $80,000 funding pool for individual grants of up to $2,500.They can go towards power bills for water pumping for livestock; water, feed, fodder and other farm supplies; and freight expenses for water or feed.Grant applications opened this week and will close on Friday 30 May or when the budget is fully used.“The City of Victor Harbor recognises the significant challenges our local agricultural businesses are facing due to the current dry weather conditions,” says Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins.“The new Farm Business Support Grant Program is a direct response to the needs expressed by our farming community and the Council’s Agribusiness Working Group.“Our goal is to provide immediate financial assistance to help these businesses cover essential operational expenses and provide some relief during this tough time.”“We understand that power bills for water pumping, the cost of feed and water, and freight expenses can become significant burdens during dry period. This grant of up to $2,500 is designed to help alleviate some of that financial pressure for eligible agribusinesses within our City.”Council CEO Victoria MacKirdy is encouraging eligible businesses to apply and ask council staff for help with the application process if needed.“The application process has been designed to be as straightforward as possible for our farming community to access. We also have dedicated staff resources on hand to answer queries and assist with the application process,” Mrs MacKirdy says.“This grant program is just one part of the City of Victor Harbor's broader support for our agricultural sector. We are also actively working to provide information on other available support services, and our staff are available to assist farmers with navigating and applying for other relevant grants.”“We believe this immediate financial support, combined with our ongoing efforts to provide information and assistance, will help our local farm businesses navigate these challenging dry conditions and contribute to the long-term resilience of our agricultural community.”

The Cape Jervis Community Club will host a family fun day on Easter Sunday, 20 April.Kids can enjoy an easter egg hunt, face painting, Farmer Darcy’s Travelling Farm and The Amazing Drumming Monkeys.The day will also feature games and activities, lots of great food choices and live music from the Boogie Men.  It runs  from 11am to 3pm, finishing with a fun colour run at 2.15pm.General entry is free, but participating in the colour run costs $5 per person on $15 for a family.Part of the 2025 Festival Fleurieu, the family fun day is sponsored by Cape Jervis Progress Association and Bendigo Bank.

Emergency services were called to a property in Christie Downs in the early hours of this morning following reports of a fire.Just after 2am on Monday, 14 April, police and fire crews responded to the incident on Hyacinth Crescent, where a shed at the rear of the property was found alight.Thankfully, no injuries were reported.The cause of the fire remains unknown, and crime scene investigators are expected to attend the site later today to determine how the blaze began.Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area, or who has information that could assist with the investigation, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestopperssa.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

South Australians are being recognised for their exceptional commitment, care, hard work or innovation in South Australia’s child protection and family support system. Nominations are now open for South Australian Child Protection and Family Support Awards. The awards highlight the outstanding contributions of children and young people with experience of the system, birth and carer families, volunteers, staff, non-government partners and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations in the critical child protection and family support sector. They are held through a partnership between the state government through the Department for Child Protection and the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect. The following categories are open for nomination:Outstanding Achievement of a Child or Young PersonActive Efforts AwardThe Voice of Children and Young People in CareOutstanding Service Award – Positive ImpactOutstanding Service Award – Health, Wellbeing and DevelopmentOutstanding Service Award - Sector DevelopmentOutstanding Service Award – Regional ImpactSouth Australian Foster Carer of the YearSouth Australian Kinship Carer of the YearVolunteer of the YearCommunity Service AwardMinister for Child Protection Lifetime Achievement AwardKatrine Hildyard is South Australian Minister for Child Protection.“Every day, I am inspired by the individual and collective passion, determination and expertise of those who tirelessly strive to improve the lives of children and young people, as well as the young people themselves who overcome adversity and with resilience and strength, contribute so much to our community," she says. “Being engaged with the child protection and family support system is deeply rewarding and deeply challenging. It is complex and sometimes heartbreaking. Despite that, people are relentlessly driven to help improve children’s lives, to help them know they are not alone. “Our South Australian Child Protection and Family Support Awards are an opportunity to celebrate the determination, resilience, joy and hope of people in the system, and to shine a light on those who make a lasting and positive impact on children and young people. “I encourage South Australians to nominate those who have made a difference in the lives of children and young people and some of the remarkable young people themselves.Since the inaugural awards ceremony in 2021, more than 1000 nominations have been received, including more than 300 for last year’s awards. Uniting Country SA is this year’s gold awards sponsor, while the HenderCare Foundation and SYC are the silver sponsors. Nominations close on 16 May, with winners announced at the SA Child Protection and Family Support Awards on Friday 5 September ahead of National Child Protection Week. To find out more about the awards or nominate visit the website. 

The Country Fire Service along with Forestry SA is currently responding to a grass and scrub fire at Bull Creek, south of Meadows in the Mount Lofty Ranges.At around 10.45am, on Sunday 13 April, crews responded to reports of a car on fire on Bull Creek Road, which quickly spread into dry vegetation on the roadside.The fire burnt in a south-easterly direction towards Old Bull Creek Road, where crews have been successful in preventing further fire spread. There is still active fire burning within the incident perimeter, particularly amongst scrub, and this is expected to continue for several hours.There are currently 20 fire trucks and around 90 firefighters working on this incident, supported by firebombing and observation aircraft.Bull Creek Road is currently closed between Paris Creek Road and Phillips Hill Road. Old Bull Creek Road remains open, however drivers are asked to use caution in the area.Stay informedCFS website cfs.sa.gov.auInformation Hotline 1800 362 361For hearing or speech impaired users, phone 1300 555 727 then ask for 1800 362 361For teletype service TTY 133 677 then ask for 1800 362 361CFS on Facebook or XAlert SA Mobile AppFor emergencies call Triple Zero (000).

Story courtesy Coast Lines MagazineWords: Susie WilliamsDid you love Storm Boy as much as I did when you were a kid? For me, it wasn’t just a movie; it was an unforgettable story that stayed with me long after the credits rolled. That bond between Mike and Mr Percival — it was magical, wasn’t it? It’s one of those rare tales that made me laugh, cry, and fall in love with the beauty of nature, all at once. Now, we can relive those memories by exploring the Storm Boy Discovery Trail, a journey through the heart of the Coorong and Alexandrina regions where this timeless story was filmed.Goolwa Wharf PrecinctStart your adventure at the Goolwa Wharf Precinct, the bustling hub where Mike and Hideaway Tom’s journey began. Standing on the historic wharf, it’s easy to imagine the paddle steamers of the past, and you can actually see the iconic PS Oscar W, gliding along the Murray River. This spot feels alive with history, and with its markets, galleries, and riverside cafes, it’s the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere and set the stage for your own Storm Boy adventure.Cadell Street, GoolwaA short walk from the wharf brings you to Cadell Street, the heart of Goolwa. This charming main street, with its heritage buildings and inviting cafes, featured in several scenes from the original film. Take your time here—browse the shops, grab a coffee, and let yourself feel the warmth of this community that was part of Storm Boy’s cinematic magic.Armfield Slip Wooden BoatsOne of my favourite stops on the trail is Armfield Slip Wooden Boats. Here, you’ll find both Hideaway from the 1976 film and Hideaway II, which was built for the 2019 remake. Seeing these boats in person is like stepping into the story. The original Hideaway has been lovingly restored by volunteers, while Hideaway II showcases the incredible craftsmanship that went into recreating this tale for a new generation. Both boats are a testament to the legacy of Storm Boy and the enduring love for this story. The workshop is like a living museum, where you can watch traditional boatbuilding techniques and feel the maritime history come alive.Goolwa Barrage and Bird HideNext up, head to the Goolwa Barrage. This spot is not just an engineering marvel; it’s also a peaceful haven for wildlife. The barrage keeps the fresh water of the Murray River separate from the salt water of the Coorong, protecting this delicate ecosystem. Nearby, the Goolwa Bird Hide offers an amazing chance to watch local and migratory birds, including pelicans just like Mr Percival. Standing there, watching the birds in the quiet stillness, you can almost feel Mike’s connection to the natural world.Barker KnollFurther along, Barker Knoll is where the river meets the sea, creating a breathtaking scene of shifting sands and sparkling water. It’s easy to see why this location was so central to Storm Boy. The views here are stunning, and the solitude is perfect for reflecting on the story’s themes of love, loss, and the fragile beauty of nature. Bring your camera—you won’t want to forget this spot.Coorong National ParkFinally, the Coorong National Park is the heart of Storm Boy. This vast expanse of wetlands, lagoons, and dunes is where the magic happened. Walking through the park, you’ll see the landscapes that inspired Colin Thiele’s novel and brought the film to life. It’s also a place to connect with the deep cultural significance of the land for the Ngarrindjeri people. Whether you’re hiking the trails, spotting wildlife, or simply soaking up the tranquility, you’ll feel the spirit of Storm Boy in every corner.Reliving Storm Boy through this discovery trail is like stepping back into childhood, with all the wonder and emotion that came with it. So, whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the story for the first time, this trail is an unforgettable journey into one of Australia’s most cherished tales and landscapes.Trail map provided by Alexandrina Council

Prescribed burns are planned at SA Water’s Myponga Reservoir Reserve on Monday, 14 April, weather conditions permitting.Two prescribed burns are scheduled at the eastern end of the reserve; one burn will start at 10.30am near Sinclair Road, where 3 hectares will be burnt, which will likely be completed by 11.30am the same day.A second burn will start at 12pm near Barclay Road, where 1.5 hectares will be burnt, which will likely be completed by 2pm the same day.Department for Environment and Water (DEW) says these burns will remove weeds infesting a creek line to improve water quality and support planned restoration works in adjacent paddocks.No roads of trails will be closed throughout the burn, but smoke may be visible from Main South Road, Pages Flat Road and the Myponga Township.National Parks and Wildlife Service crews will remain on site until it is safe to leave.NPWSSA conducts a statewide program of prescribed burns to reduce the spread and intensity of bushfires, protect communities and enhance biodiversity.Prescribed burning is just one tool used to reduce fuel loads across strategic areas of public and private land.Prescribed burns will only be carried out when it is deemed safe to do so and may be cancelled at short notice.For the most up-to-date information and to find a list of planned prescribed burns, visit the DEW website.

This week, RSPCA South Australia is proud to feature Teddy, a beautiful and affectionate dog who’s searching for his forever home.Teddy is a gentle and loving companion who has captured the hearts of the RSPCA team with his sweet nature and soulful eyes. Whether it's a quiet cuddle or a walk in the sunshine, Teddy is all about enjoying life’s simple pleasures with the people he loves most.He would thrive in a calm and caring environment where he can feel safe, appreciated, and adored. If you're looking for a loyal friend with a heart of gold, Teddy might just be the perfect match.🐾 Come meet Teddy at RSPCA South Australia’s O’Halloran Hill animal care campus or find out more about him at www.rspcasa.org.au.

Police are seeking the assistance of the public to locate wanted man, Joshua House.Joshua House, 27, is wanted in relation to a serious assault at Morphett Vale on Saturday 29 March. He may also be in possession of a firearm.He is described as Caucasian, 180cm tall, with a medium build, red hair and blue eyes. He has numerous distinctive tattoos.If you see Joshua House or know of his whereabouts, please do not approach him but call the Police Assistance line on 131 444 immediately or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

The state government has announced a $55 million package of comprehensive assistance to support drought affected farmers and communities across South Australia. The package builds on $18 million initial assistance announced in November 2024 and includes $1.1 million to support the provision of standpipes for critical water needs in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu.It has been designed in direct consultation with primary producers, including a roundtable with farmers and key industry bodies hosted by the Premier last week.Premier Peter Malinauskas says the drought has not abated since the first drought relief package in November. In fact, things have got worse. “We cannot make it rain. But we can take practical action to support our farmers and help prepare them for the next drought.Most of South Australia is experiencing drought conditions, including some regions with their lowest rainfall on record. Even if the drought were to break, its impacts will continue for many months or years. New assistance measures in the package include:$13 million for On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants for rebates that assist with projects to manage drought conditions and strengthen drought preparedness.$4 million to assist charities with freight costs to transport donated fodder to assist farmers with feeding livestock. Rebates for Emergency Services Levy and commercial vehicle registration fees for primary producers receiving the Commonwealth’s Farm Household Allowance.$2.5 million for a strategy to boost mental health and resilience in drought affected areas.$1 million for Rural Financial Counselling Support.$3.5 million for support for Rural Small Businesses.$3.1 million to assist with culling pests and manage kangaroo populations.$4.5 million to support producers with the implementation of electronic identification (eID) for sheep and farmed goats.$1.4 million to co-invest with councils in the upgrade of regional standpipes.$2 million to assist sport and recreation clubs in drought affected areas through the Active Club Program.$400,000 to develop and encourage new regional events in drought affected areas through the Regional Event Fund.$250,000 to provide financial support for country students affected by drought to attend camps and excursions.$250,000 for grants of up to $5,000 for the ‘Connecting Communities Events Program’, for groups to host events that foster social connections and provide support.$17.4 million for Future Drought Fund Preparedness and Resilience programs.Chair of Primary Producers SA Simon Maddocks says South Australia's $18.5 billion primary industries and agribusiness sector is a vital engine of economic growth and a cornerstone of the state’s prosperity.  “These targeted measures will deliver much-needed, comprehensive support to farming families and rural communities, helping to ease the economic and social pressures caused by the prolonged drought affecting much of the state.”For more information on drought support visit the website. 

A multi-million-dollar boost to infrastructure at public schools across South Australia is being delivered by the state government to support students with disabilities.A commitment of $3.5 million a year over four years has been made to establish new Special Options – both specialist classes and disability units – at schools to better meet student demand and ensure all South Australians can enrol in their local school.The announcement, in the wake of the Disability Royal Commission, aims to reduce inequity across the public education system, ensuring that students have access to suitable supports, resources and infrastructure to support their education.This year, additional options have been developed for students in Victor Harbor to meet specific needs, following the issue being raised at Country Cabinet.At Victor Harbor Primary School, a site which already had a disability unit, a special class has been established providing eight spaces for junior primary students with disability from the local area.Special Options assessment is primarily split into three groups based on the child’s year level – entering junior Primary, entering Primary or entering Secondary School.Any child that is eligible for a Special Option but attends a mainstream school, either due to the choice of their parent or guardian, or due to a shortage of place, is allocated an automatic level of IESP funding to enable personalised learning and support.The Department for Education is also trialling statewide improvements to support Year 6 students who have disabilities in their transition to high school, following a direction by the Minister for Education, Training and Skills.Minister Blair Boyer says the current process causes too much stress and anxiety for some families due to the timing of finding out if they have a place in a special options class. “The Disability Royal Commission demands change – which is why our government is taking comprehensive action to make schools in South Australia more inclusive of students with disabilities. “Important work is also being undertaken to identify and plan areas of future need. “This work will create services and certainty for families where and when they need it, and ensure they have a voice in this process.”The new approach will align the processes and timing with the enrolment process for mainstream students, improving communication and increasing the involvement of students, parents and schools.Improvement in data collection will also help determine forecasting to ensure children can attend their local school.Minister for Human Services Nat Cook says the announcement recognises and addresses the diverse needs of families and communities, ensuring everyone is supported. “Choice and opportunity lie at the heart of inclusion, empowering every individual to thrive.”The number of students in special classes has been steadily increasing and while special options have been established, no specific budget has previously existed to support medium or long-term planning for the buildings, toilets, or other extensive works necessary for a school to be able to provide a special class.The specific funding allocation will assist the department to assess future expected enrolments, and work with sites to plan for infrastructure where it is most needed; 52 new special options have been created since July 2022 to meet demand, but the focus now needs to be on strategic planning to cater for future needs. 

RecFish SA has mobilised a citizen science campaign to investigate the consequences of the algal bloom affecting coastal areas.It has observers around the state, rolling out stomach content sampling, independent pathology and ocean reef research dives in fish kill areas. This includes Kangaroo Island, the South East, southern Fleurieu, and areas on Eyre Peninsula and Yorke Peninsula. EPA testing has confirmed the presence of microalgae Karenia Mikimotoi due to a marine heatwave, causing mass fish deaths, with toxic yellow-green sea foam affecting beaches.Surfers and beachgoers have suffered coughing and breathing difficulties, itchy eyes and blurred vision.This week RecFish SA and Sea Wolves Dive Club have been auditing offshore reefs around Victor Harbor and the south coast - assessing abalone, lobster and reef fish mortality. Kangaroo Island, Alexandrina and Victor Harbor councils have issued warnings for people to be cautious in and around the water, with SA Health advising people to avoid swimming in affected areas and avoid discoloured water.SA Health says fish caught live are safe to eat, however dead fish and cockles should not be taken for human consumption due to issues associated with decomposition and spoilage.The south coast councils are rolling out signage highlighting safety precautions at local beaches ahead of the school holidays and Easter period.City of Victor Harbor restarted operation of its Horse Drawn Tram service to Granite Island yesterday, Thursday 10 April, after a three week hiatus. Waitpinga Beach and Parsons Beach, where significant levels of the bloom were first detected in early March, have now reopened after algae levels reduced. Visitors to those two beaches should still follow SA Health’s advice and avoid entering the water if it is discoloured or foamy.Responding to community concern, Kangaroo Island council says water quality in ocean environments, including the Kingscote Tidal Pool, can vary due to tides, temperature, rainfall and other environmental factors. “While there is no evidence of any dangerous risk at this time, individuals are encouraged to assess their own health and comfort levels before entering the water.”Conditions are expected to persist until there is a major change in the weather; the EPA says the microalgae will dissipate naturally over time depending on wind, swell and tidal conditions. It will continue to monitor the bloom. To report unusual water conditions contact Fishwatch on 1800 065 522, or the EPA on 1800 623 445 or via email. For the latest information visit the SA Health Water Quality Alerts page on its website. 

Budding photographers and those who want to hone their skills are invited to meet up at the Milang Old School House Community Centre this autumn.Led by keen local photographer Pam, the evening sessions will cover camera settings, editing basics, still life and produce shots, black and white v colour and many more topics.It’s a great opportunity to spend time with like-minded visual artists, learning new skills and techniques, using all kinds of cameras – except those on phones.The sessions will run from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday 16 April and Thursday 1, 15 and 29 May, with the final date on 12 June.Veggie soup, tea and coffee will be provided and entry costs a gold coin donation; book a place by calling 837 0687.

Dairy farmers from around the Fleurieu were treated to hot coffee, warm doughnuts and spicy pizza for the official opening of a new robotic milking farm in Mount Compass in early April.The Whispering Pines dairy farm is a partnership between the Hicks and Jacobs families, who came together to create an innovative dairy farming system using the latest robot milking technology.This new technology has allowed the experienced dairy farmers to expand their herd to 500 cows while improving milk quality and reducing labour demands.The open day put on by agricultural robotics manufacturers Lely gave curious dairy farmers an opportunity to see cows being milked autonomously and see a robotic dairy in action up close.  Whispering Pines Dairy co-partner Warren Jacobs says he is excited about the integration of robotic technology on his farm. “At each stage of the process of moving to this new technology, I could see the benefits.”    As a former dairy farmer, Finniss MP David Basham says he understands the value of this technology for the dairy industry. “It’s exciting technology with many positive advantages for the farmer which flow onto the entire dairy industry in terms of efficiency and information.“The introduction of robotics and other technological advances in dairy farming have enormous advantages and it is clearly the future of the dairy industry.“The life of a dairy farmer can be all-consuming with early starts and late finishes, making it difficult to juggle family commitments and holidays. The introduction of robotic technology has allowed dairy farmers to expand their herds and build their business while giving them more flexibility for family and work life balance.” 

Police are investigating a break-in at a McLaren Vale business in the early hours of Tuesday 1 April.Just before 5.30am on Tuesday 1 April, a shed on Main Road, McLaren Vale was broken into and a number of surfboards, 20 wetsuits, and power tools, including a Makita sander, lawnmower and whipper snipper were stolen.CCTV captured a small blue hatchback towing a caged trailer travelling east along Main Road, McLaren Vale before turning onto Tatachilla Road and entering the rear of the property via a laneway.View the footage on YouTube. Anyone who recognises the vehicle or has any dashcam or CCTV footage from the area that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au Quote reference 25-39M

A week-long event promoting friendship through bowls kicked off at Encounter Bay Bowling Club on Monday 7 April.The 16th State Friendship Carnival has come full circle and returned to the site of the inaugural event organised by the Bowls Past Presidents Association of South Australia Southern Branch.More than a hundred keen bowlers are competing with 26 teams from the Fleurieu and right across the state, with teams from as far west as Ceduna and all the way through to Mount Gambier.Games will be played at all four of the main south coast clubs starting with Encounter Bay Bowling Club on Monday, followed by Goolwa Bowling Club on Tuesday.Today, Wednesday, 9 April, is a rest day and the matches will resume at Port Elliot Bowling Club tomorrow, with the final day of competition on Friday at Victor Harbor Bowling Club.Substantial prize money is on offer for daily winners and overall winning teams.Southern region carnival coordinator Bob Henry has welcomed bowlers and volunteers from all around the state and reminded them the carnival was all about meeting up with old friends and making new ones during the Friendship Carnival.The carnival was officially opened on Monday morning by Don Crosby, State President of the Bowls Past Presidents Association of South Australia,  who said he was pleased to see representatives from all seven of the Southern Region clubs supporting the week-long carnival.“It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm of club members to be part of this important event. I hope participants enjoy their time and feel a drive to invite other bowlers to join their clubs so we can continue to have strong numbers for these and other bowling events.”Finniss MP David Basham has thanked those who travelled long distances to attend the bowling carnival and encouraged them to explore as much of the region as they could while visiting.“I wish you all good weather for the week, not only to play bowls but to take advantage of our many cafes and restaurants, the wonderful scenery, our walking trails, the SteamRanger and the weekend markets.“I know many of you are visiting with caravans and motorhomes and planning to spend some time discovering our region after the carnival is over. We welcome you and hope you enjoy your stay.”

Police are seeking the assistance of the public to help locate missing person, Skye, who was last seen in Strathalbyn about 4pm on Tuesday 1 April.Skye is 35 years and is described as Caucasian, with a medium build, below shoulder length blonde/brown hair, brown eyes and a lotus tattoo on her right arm.She may be driving a blue Ford Ranger utility with registration S261CEG.Police and family have concerns for Skye’s welfare, and anyone who sees her or her vehicle they are asked to call the Police Assistance Line immediately on 131 444.Reference #92163

Old Noarlunga is one of three areas to trial the latest new smart cameras deploying artificial intelligence operating on some of Adelaide’s busiest thoroughfares.The aim is to help combat collisions and reduce long frustrating traffic jams.The AI technology is the first of its kind in South Australia and has been installed at key locations at Penfield, Paradise and two roads at Old Noarlunga.The state government says the software is an intelligent solution to improving road safety and traffic flow during peak periods. The cameras are linked to the Department for Infrastructure and Transport’s Traffic Management Centre (TMC), allowing staff to monitor vehicle movements and automatically adjust traffic signals to reduce congestion.According to data collected by TMC, it costs the state’s economy more than $33,000 for every 5000 motorists that are forced to wait 20 minutes in the morning peak.It says in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, traffic build-up and dangerous rear-end collisions have significantly reduced since the cameras were installed last year. The new software and hardware was designed and built by engineering company SAFEgroup Automation.Assistant Minister for Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Economy Michael Brown says the initiative shows how new AI technology can help improve the road network and increase driver safety.“By linking directly to traffic signals, these smart cameras can easily identify high traffic flows and automatically adjust the lights to alleviate the congestion.“With a direct connection to our Traffic Management Centre, staff will be able to monitor the system and manually take over as a failsafe.”