Motorists are urged to drive safely and remain alert this Saturday, November 1, as mobile speed cameras will be in operation across South Australia, including regional and high-traffic areas.With weekend travel in full swing, police are continuing their statewide road safety efforts, targeting known speeding hotspots and busy routes. These mobile units are a vital tool in reducing road trauma and encouraging responsible driving behaviour.Whether you're enjoying a weekend getaway, commuting through the Fleurieu, or heading into town, be sure to check your speed and follow road rules. A full list of speed camera locations for Saturday is available below.ALDGATE-STRATHALBYN RD, ECHUNGABATTUNGA RD, MEADOWSBEACH RD, GOOLWA BEACHBRIDGE RD, SALISBURY EASTBULL CREEK RD, BULL CREEKBULL CREEK RD, BULL CREEKFLAXLEY RD, FLAXLEYGREEN VALLEY DR, GREENWITHGRENFELL RD, WYNN VALEMACCLESFIELD RD, MACCLESFIELDMAIN NORTH RD, ELIZABETH NORTHMAIN NORTH RD, SALISBURY EASTMCINTYRE RD, SALISBURY EASTMEADOWS RD, ECHUNGAMIDWAY RD, ELIZABETH EASTMIDWAY RD, ELIZABETH DOWNSMILNE RD, RIDGEHAVENPARIS CREEK RD, PARIS CREEKPORT ELLIOT RD, PORT ELLIOTSEAVIEW RD, VICTOR HARBORTARGET HILL RD, SALISBURY HEIGHTSTHE GROVE WAY, SALISBURY HEIGHTSTOLMER RD, ELIZABETH PARKVICTOR HARBOR RD, MOUNT COMPASSWOODFORD RD, ELIZABETH NORTH

The Thistledown 2024 Sands of Time Single Vineyard Blewitt Springs Grenache has been named McLaren Vale’s Best Wine of Show for 2025, crowning Proprietor & Winemaker Giles Cooke MW and Director Patrick Gilhooly the 2025 McLaren Vale Bushing Monarchs.The trophies from the 2025 MGA Insurance Group McLaren Vale Wine Show, including Best Wine of Show and the prestigious ‘Bushing Monarch’ title, were awarded at the 52nd annual McLaren Vale Bushing Lunch on Friday 31st October.From 707 entries, the Thistledown 2024 Sands of Time Single Vineyard Blewitt Springs Grenache was awarded the highest accolade by an impressive panel of sixteen judges, including Chair of Judges Toby Barlow (Treasury Wine Estates), International Judge Peter Richards MW (Wine Blast Podcast), and panel chairs Jack Glover (Hill-Smith Family Estates), Steven Paul (Oakdene Vineyards), and Stuart Hordern (Brokenwood Wines).Reflecting on the Best Wine of Show, Chair of Judges Toby Barlow praised vineyard selection and reflection of place, “The most pleasing element of the Best Wine of Show taste-off was the quality and personality across all the trophy winning wines. Respectful mentions go to the Shiraz, Chenin Blanc and Grenache dominant blend which polled well and evoked some good discussion. However, it was clear from the vote that the Grenache had captured the judges’ attention and was a clear winner. The Thistledown 2024 Sands of Time Blewitt Springs Grenache has captured that elusive balance of bright aromatic, even long flavours and a tannin framework that really spoke to site and region. The Best Wine of Show in the 2025 McLaren Vale Wine Show is a compelling example of Grenache grown in a region that is gaining global recognition for this variety." For Mr Barlow, the results of this year’s McLaren Vale Wine Show demonstrate that “There’s a palpable sense of evolution and progression in both growing and winemaking for traditional and emerging varieties and styles.” He continued: “Grenache continues to shine with clarity and confidence that is evident in the wines and styles. The region’s Mediterranean varieties are evolving and showcasing viticultural improvements and winemaking evolution with producers leaning into site expression and freshness. The traditional and emerging reds deserve the attention they receive; however, I continue to be excited by fabulous examples of Chenin Blanc, Fiano, Grenache Blanc, Rosé, and Vermentino that are being carefully grown and crafted into delicious wines with balanced acidity, alcohol and phenolic textures that have great relevance to consumers. This year’s McLaren Vale Wine Show results are a great reminder of just how dynamic and diverse the region has become; exciting times.”For McLaren Vale Grape Wine & Tourism Association CEO Erin Leggat, the Best Wine of Show “stands as a benchmark for modern Australian Grenache, and firmly cements McLaren Vale’s reputation as a leading global wine region for distinctive, elegant wines that speak strongly of place. The Thistledown 2024 Sands of Time Blewitt Springs Grenache exemplifies our region’s unique capacity to balance grace and intensity in equal measure, underpinned by highly-skilled, thoughtful winemaking, precision viticulture and meticulous vineyard stewardship.” UK writer, broadcaster and Master of Wine Peter Richards MW – co-host of the Wine Blast podcast – joined the 2025 McLaren Vale Wine Show as this year’s International Judge, offering a global perspective. Reflecting on his experience, Peter shared: “First: a confession. I came to judge the McLaren Vale Wine Show because I wanted to see if this Grenache-based renaissance was real. My conclusion? Hell yeah, in spades. These new-wave Grenaches (and Grenache-based blends) were the clear standouts from the show. The best of them married beguiling, heady scents with refreshing acidity, eye-opening energy, serious complexity and grippy, insistent tannins. A new-wave fine wine category fit to join the world’s greats?! Better believe it. The Shiraz and Cabernet classes were more mixed, as you might expect, with both traditional and modern styles. The best married complexity with elegance and perfume (with those taking a leaf out of Grenache’s book – ie majoring on refinement and perfume – clearly the best). But it didn’t end there – the ‘alternative’ reds were an intriguing bunch, with Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Mencía and Nero d’Avola showing promise. Grenache Blanc was the standout white alongside Fiano: both these varieties will have a bright future in the Vale.”2025 MGA INSURANCE GROUP McLAREN VALE WINE SHOW RESULTSBEST WINE OF SHOW & BUSHING MONARCHThistledown 2024 Sands of Time Single Vineyard Blewitt Springs GrenacheCHAIRPERSON’S TROPHYMitolo 2024 Trovato FianoINTERNATIONAL JUDGE’S TROPHYMinistry of Clouds 2024 GrenacheWINES OF PROVENANCE TROPHYReynella 2022, 2017, 2012 Basket Pressed Cabernet SauvignonBEST MUSEUM WINEHardys 2012 Eileen Hardy ShirazBEST SHIRAZDune 2024 ShirazBEST GRENACHEThistledown 2024 Sands of Time Single Vineyard Blewitt Springs GrenacheBEST CABERNET SAUVIGNONRichard Hamilton 2021 Hut Block Cabernet SauvignonBEST SINGLE VINEYARD SHIRAZChalk Hill Wines 2023 Alpha Crucis Seaview SyrahBEST SINGLE VINEYARD WINE ANY STYLE (OTHER THAN SHIRAZ)Thistledown 2024 Sands of Time Single Vineyard Blewitt Springs GrenacheBEST SINGLE VINEYARD VITICULTURALISTSue Trott, Trott VineyardBEST SMALL PRODUCER OF SHOWParalian WinesMOST SUCCESSFUL EXHIBITORVinarchyBEST TWO YEAR OR OLDER GRENACHES.C. Pannell 2023 Old McDonald GrenacheBEST TWO YEAR OLD SHIRAZSerafino 2023 Black Label ShirazBEST TWO YEAR OR YOUNGER CABERNET SAUVIGNONCoriole 2023 Mary Kathleen Cabernet SauvignonBEST OTHER RED & BLENDSBattle of Bosworth Wines 2024 ‘Heretic’ Touriga Nacional Graciano Mataro ShirazBEST SHIRAZ BLENDShottesbrooke Vineyards 2024 Engine Room by Hamish Maguire Shiraz Mataro GrenacheBEST GRENACHE BLENDParalian 2024 Blewitt Springs Grenache ShirazBEST TEMPRANILLO & BLENDSGemtree Wines 2024 Luna Temprana TempranilloBEST NERO D’AVOLAHugo Wines 2024 Nero D'AvolaBEST ROSÉMazi 2025 Limited Release Grenache Mourvèdre RoséBEST FIANOHugo Wines 2025 FianoBEST TRADITIONAL WHITE WINEMMAD Vineyard 2024 Chenin BlancBEST NEW AND EMERGING WHITE WINEHarrison 2025 Tan Fresca Grenache BlancBEST THREE YEAR OR OLDER SHIRAZWirra Wirra 2022 RSW ShirazBEST THREE YEAR OR OLDER CABERNET SAUVIGNONRichard Hamilton 2021 Hut Block Cabernet SauvignonBEST ONE YEAR OR YOUNGER SHIRAZDune 2024 ShirazBEST ONE YEAR OLD GRENACHEThistledown 2024 Sands of Time Single Vineyard Blewitt Springs Grenache-------------------------------TROTT FAMILY AWARDJim Ellis, Ellis ButchersD’ARRY OSBORN AWARDWillunga 100-------------------------------The full results and medal list for the 2025 MGA Insurance McLaren Vale Wine Show can be viewed HERE.

Kangaroo Island Council will introduce free access at council-managed boat launching facilities from tomorrow to support fishing recovery efforts following the algal bloom.From 1 November 2025 to 30 November 2026, boat launching fees will be waived at the following council-maintained sites:American RiverBaudin BeachBay of ShoalsChristmas CoveEmu BayFees will be reinstated from 1 December 2026.This is a temporary, state-funded initiative under the South Australian Government’s Algal Bloom Fish Recovery Program. It aims to support recreational and commercial fishers following widespread impacts to marine ecosystems and fish stocks.There will be no cost impact to Kangaroo Island ratepayers as the $65,000 contribution through the program reasonably offsets the temporary loss of revenue during the free-access period, according to Mayor Michael Pengilly.“Our community loves getting out on the water with family and friends,” he says. “Even with reduced bag limits in place, fishing remains an important and much-loved Island pastime. Removing the cost to launch a boat helps make sure it stays enjoyable and accessible for everyone.”He says with temporary bag limit reductions starting 1 November to support stock recovery, free boat launching keeps fishing accessible and worthwhile during the recovery period.“We know how important boating and fishing are to people here. This support gives those activities a welcome boost while fish stocks recover, and we are pleased to partner with the State Government on this practical measure.”The council has updated signage and online information.Full details of the program and related support measures can be found on the algal bloom website. 

Police are investigating a fire at Old Noarlunga which caused extensive damage to a boat.About 5.20am today, Friday 31 Octobe), police and fire crews were called to a house in Elizabeth Street after reports that a boat was on fire in the driveway.MFS officers extinguished the blaze and there were no reports of any injuries.The cause of the fire is undetermined, and anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online. 

Sustainable Onkaparinga has issued a plea to the community for more care to be taken with recycling paper, folllowing recent contamination issues.It says it is seeing large amounts of label backing paper turning up in kerbside recycling bins every fortnight.These backing sheets might look like paper, but they are not recyclable as they are coated with plastic or silicone.This stops the labels from sticking but also means the materials can’t be separated for recycling.When these materials go through the recycling facility, they wrap around machinery, forcing operators to stop the entire line 2–4 times a day so someone can climb into the unit and cut the tangled strips off the spindles. Sustainable Onkaparinga is asking for help to stop this happening by keeping label backing sheets out of yellow-lid recycling bins and putting them in the general waste bins.Businesses using labels or label printers are asked to check their bins and help spread the word.

As the month comes to a close, drivers are reminded to be extra cautious on the roads this Friday, October 31, with mobile speed cameras set to operate across South Australia, including regional areas and key traffic corridors.Police continue their statewide speed enforcement campaign to reduce dangerous driving and promote safer roads. With weekend traffic building and Halloween festivities approaching, it’s especially important to watch your speed and remain alert.Whether you're travelling locally or heading into the city, remember to check your speed and drive responsibly. The full list of mobile speed camera locations for Friday is provided below.ALDINGA BEACH RD, ALDINGA BEACHBALMORAL RD, DERNANCOURTBARNES RD, GLYNDECOMMERCIAL RD, SEAFORDDARLEY RD, PARADISEELIZABETH RD, MORPHETT VALEESPLANADE, ALDINGA BEACHESPLANADE, SEAFORDGEORGE ST, PARKSIDEGORGE RD, ATHELSTONEGORGE RD, PARADISEGRANTS GULLY RD, CLARENDONGRAVES ST, NEWTONHILLIER RD, MORPHETT VALEHONEYPOT RD, HUNTFIELD HEIGHTSLOWER ATHELSTONE RD, ATHELSTONELOWER NORTH EAST RD, DERNANCOURTMAGILL RD, MAGILLMAIN RD, WILLUNGAMAIN SOUTH RD, MORPHETT VALEMARYVALE RD, ATHELSTONEPORT RD, PORT WILLUNGASHERRIFFS RD, MORPHETT VALESTRADBROKE RD, ATHELSTONETHE PARADE, KENSINGTON PARK

An Armour and Alchemy Medieval Fair will be held at Wirrina Cove this weekend, Saturday and Sunday 1 and 2 November.It is a chance to step into a world where history comes alive and craftsmanship is celebrated.Features will include a genuine gypsy wagon, live leather-working demonstrations, woodcarving and blacksmithing.Re-enactment groups will bring medieval times to life and the taste of olden times can be found at the tavern.Events and activities will run from 10am to 4pm both days, with free parking on site. Find tickets online.

City of Onkaparinga will upgrade the detention basin at William Eatts Reserve, Sellicks Beach to improve stormwater management in the reserve. The council says the detention basin’s spillway plays a key role in regulating water levels and protecting community assets, including the Sellicks Beach Community Centre, playcentre and surrounding open space. This project is not connected to any potential future growth or development in Sellicks Beach; it has been initiated to address current stormwater flows and improve the performance of existing infrastructure, particularly during heavy rainfall events.The works will enlarge the existing detention basin to increase capacity during heavy rainfall and will involve removing and later replanting some recently planted trees .The council says all facilities within William Eatts Reserve including the community centre, tennis courts, playcentre and community garden are expected to remain open and accessible during the works. While there may be temporary relocation of parking and some construction noise or dust during work hours, reserve activities are anticipated to continue as normal.

Police are investigating after reports of theft of irrigation vales.Southern District Police are currently investigating a series of thefts involving irrigation valves from agricultural properties, including vineyards, in the McLaren Vale and Aldinga regions.Police urge property owners and members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or thefts.Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.Reference 277811

Work has begun on a pedestrian crossing upgrade at the intersection of Victoria Street and Oval Road in Victor Harbor.Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) will relocate the existing crossing to the west and upgrade it to a pedestrian refuge with a handrail.Weather permitting, the upgrade will be completed in early December. extension of the kerb line with a standard kerb extension and ramp, along with the Speed and lane restrictions will be in place while the works continue. For more information contact DIT via email or call 1300 794 880.

Police are seeking public assistance to locate a vehicle of interest in the investigation into the murder of Chris Robertson.The vehicle, a grey Mitsubishi Triton utility XTF976, was seen at the Lonsdale premises on Sunday 28 September – the day after Chris was last seen alive while celebrating with friends.Major Crime detectives have spoken to the registered owner of the vehicle, who is not believed to be involved in the murder, and they are assisting with the investigation.Major Crime Investigation Branch officer-in-charge Detective Superintendent Darren Fielke said the vehicle has not been seen since Chris was located on Tuesday 30 September.“We are seeking information from anyone who knows who may have been using the vehicle at the time of Chris’ death and the current location of this vehicle,’’ he says.“We believe it is likely the vehicle was used to transport Chris to 55 O’Sullivan’s Beach Road at Lonsdale on the morning of Sunday 28 September.“Locating the vehicle is crucial to the investigation as it could provide valuable forensic evidence that will assist the investigation.’’A post-mortem examination has revealed Chris Robertson died as a result of injuries received after being severely assaulted.Det. Supt. Fielke says the murder investigation was following several significant lines of inquiry.“As a result of investigations since Chris was found and information received via Crime Stoppers we have spoken to a number of witnesses and this has helped us piece together his movements between 27 September and 30 September,’’ he says.’’We are confident there will be a resolution in this investigation, and I would urge anyone in a position to assist us to do so.’’Police urge anyone with any information on the vehicle or any information about Mr Robertson’s murder to contact Crime Stoppers immediately on 1800 333 000 or report online. 252513

Alexandrina Council has awarded $125,7000 worth of community grants to 45 clubs, organisations, artists and businesses to help protect local heritage, improve the local environment, support business and tourism initiatives and build community wellbeing and resilience.The funds were allocated in four separate competitive grant categories as part of the council’s 2025-2026 Grants Program and were approved by councillors at the October general meeting.The program opened on 28 July and closed on 8 September  with Council Grant Assessment Panels receiving 63 applications to consider against listed criteria.The Small Grants Program opened for applications on 20 October and will remain open until all funds are allocated.“Our grants program helps our community deliver our shared vision to make Alexandrina Liveable. Green. Connected.’,” says Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes.“These grants also assist our endeavours to meet the objectives of our A2040 Strategic Delivery Plan.“Projects range from assisting the Langhorne Creek vigneron community provide cellar door customer service training to helping local community halls with capital projects as well as revegetation initiatives, assistance for much-loved community events and funding to preserve local history.“We have an innovative, creative and passionate community in Alexandrina and our grants program gives our people some support to do what they do best, which is delivering much needed projects for our residents.”The council approved the allocation of $20,000 from the 2025/26 Business Initiatives Grant budget to support the awarding of nine grants to the following applicants:• Strathalbyn Tourism Association $2,500 – improve technical skills and enhance digital presence.• Grommets Play Cafe $2,500 - building social media presence to raise community awareness.• Middleton Tavern $1,050 - developing a portfolio of images• Away at Ancell $2,500 - Mini Moments at Ancell Acres.• kuti shack $2,500 - Brand identity, marketing, social media.• Langhorne Creek Grape and Wine Inc. $2,500 - cellar door customer service training.• Follett's Lake Breeze Pty Ltd $2,300 - digital assets for website and digital library.• Bremerton Wines $2,500 - Bremerton Video portfolio.• Advanced Seeds Australia Pty $1,650- Dog Lake Farm Veggie Baskets.The council approved the allocation of $18,200 from the 2025/26 Community Environment Grant budget to support the awarding of seven grants to the following applicants:• Mount Compass Area School $3,000 - Mount Compass Area School Swamp Monitoring.• Kumarangk Hindmarsh Island Landcare Group Inc $4,000 - progressing Reserve 8 Restoration.• Friends of Nurragi Association Inc $2,200 - enhancing Native Vegetation in the Nurragi Conservation Reserve.• Freemans Knob Coastcare $2,000 - Freemans Knob Coastcare 2026 Planting.• Radio Goolwa - Alex FM $1,500 - increase of canopy cover and planting and water Conservation.• Captain Sturt Revegetators $4,000 - continuing the Captain Sturt Parade waterfront Restoration.• Port Elliot Community Garden $1,500 - Port Elliot Community Garden - build seven new low garden beds.The council approved the allocation of $20,000 from the 2025/26 Community Wellbeing Grant budget to support the awarding of five grants to the following applicants within the 'Vibrant and Artistic' stream:• Goolwa Community Centre $3,671 - Flying the Flag for the Goolwa Community Centre.• Aleksandra Antic $5,000 - Intertidal Zone.• Wes Maselli $5,000 - mentoring and development: Punorama.• Luisa Stocco $3,500 - Memory of Trees.• Rebecca Elson $2,829 - Art of Family Mindfulness Series.The council approved the allocation of $50,000 from the 2025/26 Community Wellbeing Grant budget to support the awarding of 17 grants to the following applicants within the 'Active and Healthy', 'Connected and Inclusive' and 'Places and Spaces' streams:• Goolwa Bowling Club Incorporated $5,000 - Safe and Welcoming Clubrooms.• Woodchester (Richardson) Hall $5,000 - Woodchester (Richardson) Hall - toilet facility/parents room upgrade.• The Milang Vintage Machinery Club Inc. $2,500 - The Yesterdays Power Rally.• Port Elliot Community Garden $5,000 - Tool Shed.• Yundi War Memorial Hall $2,500 - Heating and Cooling Yundi War Memorial Hall.• Strathalbyn Tennis Club $3,475 - North Parade Internal Fence Windbreaker.• The Goolwa Girl Guide and Scout Hall Management Committee Inc. $2,500 - Heat and Cool Hall.• Clayton Bay Community Association Community Garden $2,500 - Increased Production in the CBCA Community Garden through installation of water wise wicking beds.• New Year’s Eve Fireworks Off The Bridge 2025-2026 $2,500 – costs of running New Year’s Eve Fireworks Off The Bridge.• Armfield Wooden Boats Inc $1,900 - Water, lights and mower project.• Goolwa Children's Centre $2,100 - Reclaiming her Voice.• Clayton Bay Community Association Inc $2,000 - Clayton Bay progression towards Dark Skies International Accreditation.• Ashbourne War Memorial Centre Inc. $2,000 - Smart Cleaning Upgrade to Support Inclusive Use of Ashbourne Hall.• Belvidere Memorial Hall Inc. $3,870 - re-roofing entrance area.• Port Elliot Tennis Club $3,000 - Maintenance of tennis courts and shelter for social tennis members.• Goolwa Aquatic Club $2,500 – Aquafest 2026.• Coorong Dragons Incorporated $1,655 - Dragon Boat Light Weight Paddles.The council approved the allocation of $17,500 from the 2025/26 Heritage Grant budget to support the awarding of seven grants to the following applicants:• Lyndall Anderson $2,500 - Stonework at ‘Lorraine's’.• Katie Stevens $2,500 - Installation of fence at 1A Hooper Road, Strathalbyn.• Peter Moeck $2,500 - Conservation Practice.• Craig Williamson $2,500- Repair and Restore Facade of Strathalbyn Workers Cottage.• The Potts Vintage Collection Inc. $2,500 - Digitising our Catalogued Archive.• Bleasdale Vineyards Pty Ltd $2,500 - Bleasdale 1892 Cellar Museum Conservation of Stone and Brickwork.• Armfield Wooden Boats Inc $2,500 - Shelter for Gladys.For further details about the grant programs and the selected applicants, visit the Alexandrina Council website.

Victor Harbor Library is again inviting the local community to help celebrate the festive season by donating a new children’s book for ages 0-18 years.Grandcarers SA will wrap and distribute all donations to families across the Fleurieu just in time for Christmas. Last year the generous local community donated 359 books to families in need.The library will accept new, unwrapped books from Monday 10 November until Saturday 6 December.

The locations and designs for three new overtaking lanes on Main South Road between Normanville and Cape Jervis have been finalised. The state and federal governments jointly committed $31.8 million (50:50) to improve safety for all road users on Main South Road, between Normanville and Cape Jervis. It is an important route for commuters, tourists and freight, connecting Adelaide to destinations in the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island. According to the state government, between 1,200 and 2,200 vehicles travel between Normanville and Cape Jervis every day. Between 2020 and 2024 there were 17 crashes along this stretch of road where people were injured, including one fatal crash in 2023. Mawson MP Leon Bignell drives that stretch of road on a regular basis.“I know just how dangerous it can be,” he says.  “It’s not a good mix when you put cars, caravans, heavy trucks, tourist buses, agricultural vehicles and overseas tourists on a narrow, windy road with few places to overtake.  The locations for the new overtaking lanes are between:Normanville and Second Valley (northbound).Second Valley and Delamere (southbound).Delamere and Cape Jervis (northbound).The locations for the overtaking lanes were chosen after analysing various criteria such as environmental and land impacts, access to the road, and the ability to construct the lanes in each location. Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Emily Bourke says this can be a frustrating stretch of Main South Road for motorists. “The new overtaking lanes will provide more frequent opportunities to pass slower vehicles and help reduce risky driver behaviour that can lead to tragedy. “Starting with 94 potential locations for the new overtaking lanes, the community feedback has helped us settle on these three final locations.” The key factors incorporated into the final locations and designs include environmental impacts, drainage and erosion issues, safety at existing bus stops, speed limits at entry and exit points on Main South Road, traffic volumes and driveway access. The project will include upgraded drainage, new pavement and road surfacing, new line marking, new safety barriers and Audio Tactile Line Marking, and new landscaping in various sections. Construction is expected to start in early 2026, with works anticipated to be completed in early 2027.  The state and federal governments have also committed $80 million (50:50) for two new overtaking lanes and safety improvements along Main South Road between Myponga and Yankalilla. Planning is underway for this project which will include curve easing and road widening, along with widening of narrow bridges and culverts to improve safety and reduce delays. For more information on the final locations and designs of the three new overtaking lanes visit the Department for Infrastructure and Transport website.   

Alexandrina Council will begin repairs to the seating at Freeman's Knob Lookout, in Port Elliot, starting in early November. The works will involve repairs, rendering and painting of the walls and seating. The council has removed the Corten steel artwork in the centre of the seating area, which it says is over 20 years old with sections that have rusted. It will be replicated and reinstated when the wall repairs are complete. A local supplier involved in the creation of the original artwork in 2001 has been contracted by the council to restore the structure.The lookout will be partially closed during works with temporary fencing and signs will be in place to assist pedestrian traffic movements.Weather permitting, the works are expected to be completed by late December.For more information about Alexandrina Council projects visit the website. 

City of Onkaparinga must recruit a  new Chief Executive, following the resignation of CEO Phu Nguyen after only 2.5 years in the role.Mr Nguyen has announced his intention to step down in January 2026 to take up the CEO position at the City of Hobsons Bay in Victoria.He says the decision was a difficult one, made after careful consideration.“It’s been a privilege to lead this organisation and work alongside such passionate and dedicated people who deliver so much for our community.“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together over the past two years – from strengthening our financial position, building a more connected, trusted and high-performing organisation and delivering a shared vision for our community.“While I hadn’t anticipated leaving so soon, this opportunity allows me to return closer to family.“The City of Onkaparinga will always hold a special place for me, and I’m confident the organisation is in strong hands and well positioned for continued success,” he said.Mayor Moira Were says she is incredibly sad to see Phu leave.“I will miss Phu and I’m sure I will not be alone. We had an effective working relationship, but I understand and respect that Phu is putting his family first.“Phu has navigated us out of financial sustainability concerns and supported organisational culture change so the organisation can deliver the best outcomes for our community. He will be missed.”Mr Nguyen took up the role of CEO in July 2023 after Director Strategy and Engagement Julia Grant had acted in the position for more than a year.Previous CEO Scott Ashby left the job less than two years into his contract and the appointment of his successor, Alastair Dawson, was rescinded in June 2022.The council says recruitment for a new CEO will commence immediately to ensure a smooth transition.

Words: Sarah AnsellProudly brought to you by Coast Lines magazineSpot a Turtle? Help Protect Them with TurtleSATHave you seen a turtle crossing the road, basking by the river, or digging a nest in your local park? Those moments are more than just a lucky sighting – they’re a chance to help protect our much-loved freshwater turtles.Here on the Fleurieu, the Long-necked Turtle (Chelodina longicollis) and the Short-necked Turtle (Emydura macquarii) are our most common species. Sadly, their numbers are dropping due to habitat loss, predators, and road traffic. But together, we can make a difference.That’s where TurtleSAT comes in. TurtleSAT is a free citizen science tool where anyone can record turtle sightings. It’s simple to use – just jump online at www.turtlesat.org.au or download the app, and log what you’ve seen. Every record, whether it’s one turtle or many, helps researchers and land managers understand where turtles are living, nesting, and facing challenges. By sharing your observations, you’re adding to a big picture of turtle movements across South Australia. This information helps guide conservation efforts, protect nests, and care for the waterways that turtles – and we – depend on.So next time you spot a turtle, take a moment to record it. It’s an easy way to care for nature and make sure these ancient creatures are around for future generations to enjoy.Need help to install the app? Pop into the Strathalbyn Natural Resource Centre and we would be happy to help! Second Nature are a not-for-profit environmental organisation based in Strathalbyn. To learn more about what we do, visit www.secondnature.org.au

Following the success of the inaugural Set your clothes free textiles collection event in May, Green Industries SA will again partner with local councils and charities.The event will be held on Saturday 1 November, from 9 am to 3 pm, to help people donate their unwanted, high-quality clothing and pass on their unwanted household linens for recycling.There will be 13 drop-off points across the state, with one in the City of Victor Harbor and one in the City of Onkaparinga.Green Industries says Australians are the world’s biggest consumers of fashion, purchasing an average of 53 items of clothing per person each year – but a significant portion of those end up unworn or underused, buried in wardrobes and destined for landfill.Set your clothes free day will give genuinely reusable clothing items a second life in charity stores, easing the burden placed on charity stores that can become overwhelmed with poor-quality donations that can’t be re-sold.Good quality clothes and shoes plus both pure and blended polyester and cotton household linen, in any condition, will be accepted.Donated clothing and footwear will be sorted and distributed to the participating charitable organisations for resale. Linen will be sorted, decommissioned and recycled.Salvos Stores is the charity partner of City of Onkaparinga, with a collection point at Wakefield House Positive Ageing Centre in Morphett Vale.Red Nose is the charity partner of City of Victor Harbor, with a collection point in the Civic Centre Car Park on Bay Road.Find out more about the day and Green Industries projects on the website.

There is a current power outage in McLaren Vale. Saturday October 25, 2025 3:16pm.SA Power Networks are working to fix the issue.Estimated restoration 8:30pm tonight.