Starting Monday this week, Australians aged 45-49 can now opt-in to the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP), marking a significant milestone in bowel cancer prevention.Since 2018, Bowel Cancer Australia has advocated for lowering the screening age from 50 to 45. An AIHW study found that NBCSP participants diagnosed with bowel cancer had a 40% lower risk of dying from the disease than non-participants.Julien Wiggins, CEO of Bowel Cancer Australia, announced, "An additional 1.6 million Australians aged 45-49 are now eligible to request their first bowel cancer screening test, which will be mailed to them upon request. Subsequent tests will be automatically mailed every two years."Australians aged 50 to 74 will continue to receive a screening test by mail every two years. Those aged 45 to 74 can also discuss screening options with their GP.The at-home bowel screening test detects hidden blood in the stool, which can indicate conditions other than bowel cancer, such as polyps, haemorrhoids, or bowel inflammation. If blood is detected, a colonoscopy is needed to investigate further, potentially identifying and removing pre-cancerous polyps or confirming a cancer diagnosis.For residents of the Fleurieu Peninsula, this change underscores the importance of proactive health measures. By participating in the NBCSP, early detection and prevention of bowel cancer can significantly increase survival rates. Talk to your GP today about getting screened.Request your free screening kit

Federal government grant funding for the Goolwa Community Centre under the Strong and Resilient Communities - Inclusive Communities (SARC-IC) has been extended.Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth advised local MP for Mayo, Rebekha Sharkie, of the funding extension on 3 July. The SARC-IC Activity assists vulnerable and disadvantaged people establish pathways towards self-reliance and empowerment through community-focused approaches. These actions aim to support individuals participate in their community socially and economically. Ms Sharkie says the Goolwa Community Centre received $195,000 over the 2022-23 and 2023-24 periods to deliver a program for women in vulnerable positions, encouraging them to establish social connections, develop support networks and build confidence. These goals are achieved through collaboration with local service providers who offer targeted support projects including yoga, adult, digital and financial literacy, self-defence and life coaching.Having demonstrated the success of these projects and the benefits it has offered to women in the Goolwa community, the Centre has now been awarded an additional $180,000 and a one-year extension to increase the scale of their projects and continue their work, Ms Sharkie says. “I was delighted to receive the news from Minister Rishworth that additional funding had been awarded to the Goolwa Community Centre.”“The Goolwa Community Centre, like so many others across the Mayo electorate, offers people a safe place for connection, interaction and personal development.” “This program will ensure vulnerable women in the Goolwa area have access to programs which equip them with skills to increase their confidence and independence.”“This funding will allow the Centre to increase the project's scale, ensuring its benefits reach a greater number of participants.”“I commend the work of the Centre and acknowledge the significance of their contribution to the Goolwa Community.”Find out more about the Goolwa Community Centre and its programs on its website.

The Southern Vales Compassionate Community volunteers were honoured recently with a prestigious award in recognition of their exemplary community work. This accolade, presented on June 21, celebrates their outstanding community engagement and significant achievements in palliative care.The award is a testament to the heart of Southern Vales Volunteers' mission: fostering strong community engagement. Winning this award highlights that their important message about palliative care and support is resonating with both the local community and professionals in the field.The compassionate volunteers at Southern Vales facilitate a variety of free activities designed to support and educate the community. These include Death Cafes, Death Over Dinner cabaret evenings, art groups, and Community Talking Cafes. Each event aims to provide a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space for discussing the often challenging topics of grief, life, death, and dying.These vital activities are entirely funded through donations and grants from various agencies, ensuring that they remain accessible to all who need them. The recognition from Palliative Care South Australia underscores the invaluable impact of the Southern Vales Compassionate Community volunteers and their ongoing commitment to palliative care and community support.If you would like to know more about compassionate communities check out their Facebook page.Or email: [email protected] to right: Chris Banks, Julia Samistria, Liz Elder, Deb Lilley, Sue woods & Kristina Walsh. Photo supplied.

Mayo MP Rebekha Sharkie says after more than a year of government inaction it is time to take the lead on online gambling.She says the Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs handed down its ‘You win some, you lose more’ report on the impact of online gambling on those experiencing gambling harm on 28 June 2023.Ms Sharkie and independent Member for Clark Andrew Wilkie MP are frustrated and dismayed that the federal government has failed to respond in any meaningful way.They say the committee, chaired by late Government MP Peta Murphy, recognised the great harm being done by online gambling and gambling advertising to children, young people and those experiencing gambling addiction. It acknowledged that ‘Australians demand an end to saturation advertising of gambling products’ and recommended the phasing in over three years of a comprehensive ban on online gambling advertising on all media.The MPs say In the intervening twelve months they understand the government has undertaken consultation regarding online gambling advertising restrictions but so far has remained silent.Research conducted in the 12 months to March 2024 by Roy Morgan shows the number of people betting on sports has more than doubled in the past five years. Almost a million Australians (881,000) who sports bet are now considered 'problem' or moderate risk gamblers under the 'Problem Gambling Severity Index' and more than one third of all spending on sports betting is from people experiencing gambling harm.“Addiction, guilt and shame, financial hardship, poor mental and physical health, relationship breakdown, homelessness, childhood poverty, family violence, elder abuse, criminal activity and suicide. These are the products the gambling industry is selling, and many Australians are buying," Ms Sharkie says."The big sporting codes are addicted to the cut they get from every bet laid, and their sponsorships from gambling companies, with additional benefits linked to the amounts gambled. The Government accepts the political donations. And the regulation is patently inadequate to manage the risks."The Government has sat on its hands on the issue of an advertising ban for over a year since the 'You win some, you lose more' report was handed down. This delay is unconscionable."“That is why I have re-introduced my Bill to ban all advertising of online gambling. The 'inescapable torrent' of advertising was causing harm a year ago, and it is causing harm now, and the community is fed up with the Government's inaction."The Interim CEO of The Alliance for Gambling Reform, Martin Thomas, says there is an opportunity still for the government to do the right thing and to honour the legacy of the late Labor MP Peta Murphy.“The 31 recommendations of the Murphy Report provide a gold standard to protect Australians and especially our children from the insidious harms of online gambling,” he said.“Australians lose $25 billion every year to gambling and those losses cause social harm on an industrial scale. Online gambling is now the fastest growing form of gambling in Australia today.“The government must heed the deep public anger at the proliferation of gambling ads, including those grooming our children, and resist the lobbying of the gambling industry and its allies.”

In celebration of NAIDOC Week, the annual Victor Harbor NAIDOC March will take place on Thursday, July 4th, 2024. This significant event, honoring the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, will necessitate several temporary road closures in Victor Harbor to ensure the safety and smooth progression of the march.From 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., the following roads will be closed to traffic:Flinders Parade: Closed from Eyre Terrace to The EsplanadeThe Esplanade: Closed from Wills Street to Flinders ParadeCoral Street: Closed from Stuart Street to Flinders ParadeOcean Street: Closed from Coral Street to Albert PlaceAlbert Place: Closed from Ocean Street to The EsplanadeResidents and visitors are encouraged to plan their travels accordingly and seek alternative routes during this time. The City of Victor Harbor appreciates the community's cooperation and understanding as they support this important cultural event.For more information or updates on the road closures, please contact the City of Victor Harbor or visit their official website at City of Victor Harbor Road Closures.

Attention Fleurieu Peninsula residents and visitors: Stay safe on the roads by being aware of tomorrow's speed camera locations across our beautiful region.Tomorrow's traffic Camera Locations:Wednesday, 3 July 2024ALDERSHOT RD, LONSDALEBAINS RD, WOODCROFTBARRAMUNDI DR, HALLETT COVEELIZABETH RD, MORPHETT VALELONSDALE RD, SHEIDOW PARKMAIN SOUTH RD, OLD REYNELLAMAIN SOUTH RD, MORPHETT VALEO'SULLIVAN BEACH RD, LONSDALEODESSA DR, WOODCROFTSHEREBROOKE BVD, WOODCROFTLocations of the region's fixed traffic camera networkNotes to reading the table:Camera types:PAC - Pedestrian activated crossingP2P - Point to pointI/section - IntersectionRail - Level crossingPanalatinga Road/Pimpala Road, WOODCROFTI/sectionMain South Road/Bains Road, MORPHETT VALEI/sectionMain South Road/Doctors Road, MORPHETT VALEI/sectionBains Road, MORPHETT VALEPACBeach Road, MORPHETT VALEPACVictor Harbor Road, MCLAREN VALEP2PVictor Harbor Road, WILLUNGAP2PVictor Harbor Road, MCLAREN VALE TO WILLUNGAP2PVictor Harbor Road, WHITES VALLEYP2PVictor Harbor Road, TATACHILLAP2PVictor Harbor Road, WHITES VALLEY TO TATACHILLAP2P

Over the past two days, local whale watchers have been treated to an impressive display of marine life at Victor Harbor. On Sunday, June 30th, 2024, sightings of Southern Right Whales were abundant around Port Elliot's Knights Beach. At 4:00 pm, two whales were confirmed, with their blows visible 800 and 1200 meters south of the beach. Earlier, at 3:45 pm, the same pair was seen engaging in surface activity, rolling and circling about 600-800 meters from the shore. These magnificent creatures were also spotted throughout the day from various vantage points, including Freeman Lookout and Frenchman Rock. Additionally, a Humpback Whale was observed near Granite Island, adding to the excitement.The excitement continued into yesterday (Monday, July 1st, 2024), with more sightings of Southern Right Whales. At 12:05 pm, two whales were seen turning back and positioning themselves 500 meters off the tip of The Bluff in Encounter Bay. Earlier in the morning, at 11:37 am, the same pair was spotted at Depledge Beach, Victor Harbor, moving towards Kings Beach. By 11:30 am, they had made their way to Petrel Cove, delighting onlookers with their presence.This period marks the seasonal migration of Southern Right Whales to Victor Harbor, where they come to calve and nurture their young in the region's protected waters. The sightings are a reminder of the natural beauty and biodiversity that Victor Harbor offers, particularly during this time of the year.Whale Watching LocationsGrab the camera and binoculars and head to one of the many vantage points along the southern Fleurieu Peninsula's coastline during the whale watching season. Click the map to enlarge or download.Spot a whale? Report a sightingIf you, or someone you know, believes to have seen a whale, there are a couple of ways you can assist us to officially report and confirm the whale sighting:Phone 08 8551 0750 between 10am and 4pm daily, orEmail [email protected] including time, location, activity, whale species or photo through to us. Once a team member receives your report, either by phone or email one of our registered whale spotters will be contacted to visit the location and confirm the sighting.FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHALE WATCHING IN VICTOR HARBOR

Kalyra has begun a program of community engagement on the future of the McLaren Vale and Districts War Memorial hospital site.The 21-bed community hospital was closed on 30 June last year after its board determined it was not financially viable to keep it open.Management of the site has since been transferred to the James Brown Memorial Trust, which operates not-for-profit aged care provider Kalyra.Kalyra has committed to maintaining all the services currently operating from the site, except for the former hospital.The consultation period runs until 6 September and includes an online survey and small group ‘community conversations’.The advisory group and the Kalyra team will also attend several community events in Aldinga, Willunga and McLaren Vale over the next two months, culminating in an open day at the hospital site 31 August.For more information on the Kalyra community engagement process visit the website. A group of McLaren Vale residents has been campaigning against the Kalyra takeover, objecting to ‘handing over’ a community asset and taking legal action. Visit the Facebook page for more information.

Police are investigating the theft of a tractor from Kyeema during the weekend.Sometime between 5pm on Friday 28 June and 7am today (Monday 1 July), a green Deutz Fahr 4WD tractor with a cab and front end loader, along with a post knocker fitted to the rear was stolen from a property on Burma Road near Kuitpo Forest.It was driven in a northeasterly direction on Burma Road towards Woodgate Hill Road.Anyone who sees the tractor is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.auPlease quote reference number 24-110M.

In a significant boost to local firefighting capabilities, McLaren Vale is set to receive one of the new state-of-the-art urban firefighting trucks as part of a broader rollout across the state. This fleet of over ten new fire trucks, delivered from this month, is designed to enhance the CFS response to urban incidents, ensuring communities like McLaren Vale are better protected.The 13 newly configured trucks are purpose-built with critical urban firefighting tools and equipment as standard, aligning better with the types of incidents our volunteers encounter.CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin AFSM highlights the importance of evolving firefighting equipment to meet the needs of growing rural communities."As an all-hazards fire and rescue agency, it's crucial that we continually enhance and align the equipment we provide our volunteers, ensuring they have the appropriate tools to respond to unfolding incidents," Mr Loughlin says."These new urban trucks represent a new generation of vehicles that will be groundbreaking for the brigades receiving them, and for the communities these brigades serve."Data reveals that out of the 9,000 incidents CFS personnel responded to over the past 12 months, only 2,000 were rural. The devastating shopping centre fire at Stirling, which caused approximately $25 million in damage, is a prime example of where urban-specific equipment can greatly benefit firefighters.The newly outfitted 34P trucks, which boast four-wheel drive capability and carry around 3,000 litres of water, are equipped with advanced features tailored for urban incidents. Tim McNeilly, Manager of Urban and Technical Operations, emphasises the need for specialised equipment in certain areas of the state."We recognise the need in certain areas for firefighting equipment focused on the diverse urban incidents our volunteers respond to," Mr McNeilly says."These trucks will be the first in CFS to be factory fitted with a portable ground monitor, allowing firefighters to operate a hose remotely, reducing exposure and risk of injury."Standard equipment on these trucks will include battery-operated hand tools such as angle grinders and quick-cut saws for forcible entry, a battery-operated positive pressure fan for clearing smoke from homes, and mounted thermal imaging cameras to detect hotspots. Enhanced vehicle features include improved emergency warning lights and sirens, an updated cabin console layout, and improved ladder stowage, making these vehicles more versatile for volunteers in various environments.In addition to McLaren Vale, the trucks will be delivered to 12 other brigades in the coming months, including Coffin Bay, Nairne, Cadell, Port Broughton, Keith, Port Elliot, Angaston, and Eden Hills.Minister for Emergency Services, Dan Cregan, stresses the importance of this investment in ensuring volunteers are well-equipped.“CFS personnel respond to much more than bushfires, and this investment provides innovative ways to help them carry out their duties, including in built-up areas,” Minister Cregan says."Having the latest equipment on board this fleet as standard ensures volunteers are well prepared to tackle a vast array of emergencies across the state."The arrival of these new trucks in McLaren Vale and other brigades marks a significant advancement in the capability of local fire services to protect their communities.

Kangaroo Island Community Club has received an Enabling Infrastructure Grant of $230,439 towards its Regional Worker’s Accommodation Fit-Out Project.This is one of eight significant projects across South Australia’s regions offered grants between $230,000 and $1 million in Round One of the program.The program forms part of the $15 million Thriving Regions Fund and provides funding for infrastructure projects that build resilient regional communities and promote a strong regional economy.Round One grant offers totalled $5.07 million for projects ranging from accommodation for workers in critical seasonal roles, childcare facilities, health, and education centres as well as community and sports facilities.Kangaroo Island Community Club has been working for several years to develop the workers accommodation in the Parndana Hotel Cabin and Campgrounds.It was previously granted $800,000 towards the project through the Local Economic Recovery Program, following the 2019-20 fires on the island.Round Two of the Enabling Infrastructure Grants Program will launch in July.A further $5 million will be made available for grants of between $50,000 and $1 million, with the maximum amount extended to $2 million where there are exceptionally broad benefits.Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven says the funding makes a real difference in regional communities that contribute so much to the state’s economy.  “I look forward to opening this new round of funding in July and encourage community organisations in our rural and regional communities to work with us as we support thriving regions.”   

Fishing Report: Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island (July 1 - 15)As winter settles over the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island, local anglers will find rewarding catches despite the cooler temperatures. The first half of July will bring a mix of challenges and triumphs to the fishing community, with diverse species making their presence known in these rich waters. From shore fishing hotspots to prime offshore locations, the region continues to offer excellent opportunities for both seasoned fishers and newcomers alike. Here's a detailed look at the expected fishing activity from July 1 to 15, covering the most productive areas, standout catches, and tips for your next outing.Fleurieu PeninsulaKings and Waitpinga beaches expect to yield good catches of salmon trout and mullet. Garfish are schooling inside the basin at Cape Jervis and Morgan's Beach, providing ample opportunities for a decent haul. The jetties at Rapid Bay and Second Valley are productive spots for tommies, lazy drummer, squid, and green mackerel.Boat crews fishing from Wirrina and Lady Bay faced challenging conditions with dirty water last week, making it tough to catch whiting. However, garfish and squid are present in decent numbers, though they are slow to bite. Some of the winter garfish are particularly fat and moist, offering great eating qualities.Shore-based fishing along this scenic part of the Fleurieu has been relatively quiet. Anglers have had occasional success with mullet, salmon trout, and flathead from Carrackalinga, Myponga, and Maslin's beaches. The jetty at Pt Noarlunga has been producing garfish, squid, and tommy ruffs.For freshwater enthusiasts, the Myponga Reservoir is a prime spot for callop and Murray cod (catch and release), along with redfin perch.Fishing Tips:Targeting Garfish: Try using smaller hooks and lighter lines to increase your chances. Berley can help attract garfish closer to your fishing spot.Squid Fishing: Squid are often slow to bite in winter, so patience is key. Use brightly coloured jigs and fish during dusk or dawn for the best results.Whiting in Dirty Water: When water clarity is low, use baits with a strong scent like fresh squid or cockles to draw in whiting.Freshwater Fishing: In Myponga Reservoir, try using lures that mimic local baitfish for redfin perch, and remember to practice catch and release for Murray cod to help conserve their population.Kangaroo IslandIntrepid big boat crews fishing in the deeper waters off southern KI have reported successful catches of tuna, red nannygai, kingfish, and shark. Inshore drops are holding KG whiting, flathead, squid, and snook. As the water temperatures drop, large salmon schools have become more prevalent along the southern coastline and through Investigator Strait, with fish up to 4 kilos being caught in the surf and surges on beaches exposed to south-westerly swells and currents. Anglers are advised to exercise caution when fishing in these conditions.King George whiting, squid, and flathead can also be caught from Smiths Beach, Emu Bay, Kingscote, American River, and Penneshaw. Local jetty-based fishing has been fruitful, offering nice tommies, squid, and salmon trout.Fishing Tips:Targeting Tuna and Kingfish: Use live baits or lures that mimic local baitfish. Deep trolling can be effective in deeper waters.Inshore Fishing for Whiting and Squid: Light tackle and fresh bait such as squid or cockles work well for King George whiting. For squid, try using brightly coloured jigs and fish during low light conditions.Surf Fishing for Salmon: Use metal slugs or pilchards on gang hooks to attract salmon in the surf. Be mindful of safety and fish with a buddy in rough conditions.Jetty Fishing: For tommies and salmon trout, use small hooks and a bit of berley to draw the fish in. Squid jigs in natural colours tend to work well off jetties.Stay tuned for more updates, and tight lines to all our local anglers!

Police are investigating a serious crash at Delamere early this morning.About 12.45am on Sunday 30 June, emergency services were called to Bullaparinga Crescent at Delamere after reports a Holden VT sedan left the road and crashed into a tree.The driver, a 19-year-old from South Brighton, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Adelaide for treatment.The three passengers, a 19-year-old from Yankalilla, a 17-year-old and 15-year-old both from Delamere were taken by SAAS to hospital.Hills Fleurieu police attended to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.Anyone with information on the crash is asked to contact Police.Top South Australian stories

A man has been arrested after being caught drink-driving in a stolen car.It will be alleged that just before 8pm on Saturday 29 June, police were called to a fast food restaurant on Commercial Road after reports of an abusive customer in the drive-through area.Police found a Holden ute in the drive-through area. Checks revealed the car had been stolen from a Bridgewater address last week.The driver, a 32-year-old Seaford Heights man was charged with illegal use of a motor vehicle and drink-driving, after he returned a positive breath test of 0.065.He was bailed to appear in court at a later date.

Middleton’s Mindacowie is one of eighteen historic South Australian buildings to benefit from $250,000 in funding to help cover the cost of conservation work. Round 2 of the Heritage Conservation Grants aim to preserve the state’s built heritage to ensure these important places can be enjoyed by future generations. The funded works include structural stabilisation, ceiling repair, wall restoration, plumbing and stormwater management. The grants range from $1000 to $20,000. In most cases, funding is provided on a dollar-for-dollar basis to successful applicants, including private owners, companies, local councils and community groups who are owners of State Heritage Places or owners or businesses situated within a State Heritage Area.The Mindacowie guest house will receive $10,000 towards chimney restoration works.Located on the Goolwa Road, it was built by John Abbott in 1899 for his sisters Jessie and Ruth to run as a Temperance Hotel.It has since operated as a guest house and used as a private residence before becoming Mindacowie Seachange B&B.  Environment Minster Susan Close says the state government recognises that architectural heritage enriches people's lives and contributes to a sense of belonging by linking us to our past.  “We actively support projects that care for our state’s history. These conservation works not only preserve our cultural heritage, but also contribute to our regional trade and visitor economies.” A total of $250,000 in Heritage Conservation Grants are made available each year over what is a 10 year program. For further information about the heritage grants program visit the website. 

Every Thursday arvo during the 1903 footy season, a man stood sentinel on the road between Adelaide and the Fleurieu. His eyes scanned the horizon for just one thing: the horse and cart of Willunga Football Club legend, Hendrick ‘Taffy’ Waye. If Taffy was spotted heading for the city, it meant he'd suit up for Sturt that weekend, robbing Willunga of their best player and offering their opponents a sliver of hope against the otherwise unstoppable team. Or so the legend goes. Willunga Football Club’s rich history The story of Taffy is just one of the many great yarns that make up the rich history of the Willunga Football Club, which is celebrating its 150-year anniversary in 2024. Also known as the Demons, the Red and Whites (for their uniform colours), and (according to their club song), “the greatest club there's been”, members and supporters certainly have a lot to celebrate. Established on 29 May 1874, Willunga is South Australia’s second oldest continuous football club – just four years younger than Port Adelaide. In 1877, the Demons became an inaugural member of the South Australian Football Association. However, the long distance from Willunga to Adelaide made regular competition in that league too difficult. The club left in 1886 to help found the Southern Football Association (SFA) alongside Sellicks Hill, Aldinga, and McLaren Vale. The club’s golden era during their time in the SFA was 1931-1956, when they played in 18 grand finals, winning ten. In 1986, the Demons transferred to the Great Southern Football League (GSFL) where they quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. They have produced many great players down the years, winning a total of 38 A grade men’s premierships along the way. Both before and after Taffy won the 1903 Magarey Medal for Sturt, local legends abound in the club’s history. In several cases, four or five generations of one family have suited up for the Red and Whites. Recent well-known Willunga alumni include AFL players Randall Bone and Ben Thompson. In those early days of Aussie Rules when Willunga began as a club, even the shape of the ball was up for debate. Willunga Football Club historian Gerry Loots notes that it took several years after the club's founding to officially settle on the oval of today.Willunga Football Club C1883. Photo provided. A modern era rooted in community It’s certainly a long way from the modern Willunga Football Club, now headed up by its first female president, Julie Clifton. Julie says it’s a privilege to be the first woman in the role, creating a precedent she hopes will inspire more women to step up and lead. Inclusivity at the club has also grown rapidly in recent years: Willunga fielded its inaugural open women's team in 2016. Now there are three Willunga women’s teams in the league, and the A Grade and Under 17 teams have both won the past three GSFLW premierships in a row. Willunga has more than 300 members, plus around 90 girls and boys involved through Auskick. But Julie says the real secret to the club’s ongoing success is its bonds with the community and its family-friendly values. “If you don't have a good culture and a good social aspect to your club then people are not going to come.” “It's the people that make the club special – the members, the people who volunteer, that’s the club’s backbone. Premierships are nice to win, but you can have the best footballers in the country and if you don't have all the people contributing behind the scenes you won’t create that culture that people want to be part of.”Willunga Football Club's first (and current) female president, Julie Clifton. Photo provided.Celebrating 150 years The club is celebrating its massive milestone throughout the season with a line-up of events that includes a Past Players’ Day and a whole lot of fun, family-friendly evenings of entertainment. The social calendar culminates on 24 August with the 150th Demon Ball gala dinner. There’s also a ‘150 Years Unlocked’ fundraising drive happening to kickstart the creation of a modern, interactive museum to house the enormous amount of historic memorabilia currently hidden away in storage. “We might not have made it to the AFL like Port Adelaide, but we’ve got a rich, deep history that’s worth preserving and celebrating,” Julie says. “Attached to a lot of our memorabilia are wonderful humans that have represented our club before us. We want to unlock all that, and put it out on display in a special way.” Work has already started on preserving the club’s history, with Gerry digitising archives and photos. Meanwhile, Derek Rogers of Akaroyfilms has been restoring old game videos and filming interviews with veteran players. Julie’s dream is to make this digital history accessible alongside the memorabilia, through interactive displays in the planned museum. As well as educating the community about a proud sporting history, the museum could be a place to inspire future Willunga champions. After all, it will soon be time to start writing the next 150 years of the Demons’ history.Willunga FC 1956. Photo Supplied.

At the RSPCA South Australia’s animal care campus at O’Halloran Hill, two adorable pets are eagerly waiting to find their forever homes. This week, we introduce you to Molly and Charlie, our featured Pets of the Week, who are hoping to find their perfect families soon.Meet Molly (AID 189634)First up is the magnificent Molly, a sweet and energetic young girl currently residing at the RSPCA’s O’Halloran Hill campus. Molly is a busy bee, full of life and ready to embark on new adventures with a loving family by her side. She would thrive in a home with another dog, as she loves to share her adventures and cuddle up with both furry friends and humans. If you’re looking to add a second four-legged friend to your family, Molly could be the perfect match. Find out more about Molly and how you can adopt her here.Meet Charlie (AID 188871)Next, we have the dashing young Charlie, a curious and intelligent bun who is also awaiting his forever home at the O’Halloran Hill campus. Charlie loves exploring his surroundings and needs plenty of space to hop around and have fun. He’s an affectionate bunny who enjoys having his face stroked and would love to share his home with another bonded bunny playmate. If you’re ready to welcome a new bunny friend into your life, Charlie might be the one for you. Learn more about Charlie and how you can adopt him here.These loving animals are waiting to find their perfect family. If you think that could be you, visit the RSPCA South Australia’s animal care campus at O’Halloran Hill and meet Molly and Charlie today.Visit the RSPCA South Australia’s animal care campus at O’Halloran Hill and add a new companion to your life – it's a decision you won’t regret.The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) South Australia is the state’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity, dedicated to giving animals a second chance at a happy life.

Police are investigating a suspicious car fire at Hallett Cove early this morning.About 3.45am this morning, emergency services were called to Marine Avenue after reports of a car fire.MFS crews were quickly on scene and extinguished the blaze however the Toyota Hilux utility was completely destroyed.Police believe the fire was deliberately lit and are asking anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area or has information that may assist with the investigation to contact Crime Stoppers.You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000.

 Two City of Victor Harbor projects were recognised at the SA Landscape Architecture Awards, held on Friday 21 June. Stage Four of the Victor Harbor Mainstreet Precinct upgrade (incorporating Ocean Street and Albert Place) received awards for regional achievement and excellence in civic landscape, while The Bluff Master Plan took home an award for landscape planning.Chief Executive Officer Victoria MacKirdy says the accolades are a well-deserved acknowledgement for council staff, consultants and those in the community who contributed to the projects.“Both the Mainstreet Precinct and The Bluff are destinations in Victor Harbor that people are very passionate and protective over, which meant Council had to take great care when planning a vision for their future,” Ms MacKirdy says.“In no way were either of these projects simple. In fact, Council had to navigate many challenges to ensure a positive outcome for all. The architects and designers that Council contracted demonstrated outstanding professionalism that reflects in the final product.”The City of Victor Harbor contracted Hatch Design for the development of The Bluff Master Plan, and Oxigen for the design of Stage Four of the Mainstreet Precinct Upgrade.“Awards like this put Victor Harbor on a pedestal and showcase how we are leading the way when it comes to nurturing our streetscapes and open spaces,” said Ms MacKirdy.“I’d also like to highlight that our community has played an enormous role in both the Mainstreet Precinct upgrades and the development of our Master Plan for The Bluff. These awards are something we should all be proud of together. Congratulations to all.”In presenting the awards, the judges praised the design and delivery of both projects.Victor Harbor Mainstreet Precinct (Ocean Street and Albert Place):2024 AILA SA Award for Excellence for Civic LandscapeJudging comments: Ocean Street and Albert Place demonstrate an exemplary and collaborative commitment by the City of Victor Harbor and separate landscape architecture commissions in shaping a unified civic heart. Creating and delivering a vibrant main street in different stages over many years, WAX Design’s early design leadership on Ocean Street South established a clear design vision for the project, carried through by Oxigen on Albert Place and Ocean Street North. The outcome is a seamless streetscape, with key lessons from the earlier stages integrated into the delivery. The jury was impressed by the collaboration across and between stages to deliver a unified outcome and congratulates the City of Victor Harbor for its exemplary and integrated design approach in one of South Australia’s most visited regional destinations.Victor Harbor Mainstreet Precinct (Ocean Street and Albert Place):2024 AILA SA Regional Achievement AwardsJudging comments: Victor Harbor is a major tourist destination, and the Mainstreet Precinct holds regional significance and is an exemplar in what can be achieved by multiple consultants and a committed client striving to deliver a unified outcome. Building on its role in a stunning natural setting, the Mainstreet Precinct delivers a cohesive and inspired series of streetscape improvements – no mean feat considering the regional location. The project rivals many of Adelaide’s best streetscapes and therefore provides an enduring and meaningful outcome for Victor Harbor.The Bluff Master Plan:2024 AILA SA Landscape Architecture Award for Landscape PlanningJudging comments: The Bluff is an important cultural and environmental site for the City of Victor Harbor and its broader community. The level of engagement and rigour of the master plan process reflects the value this site holds for the community to capture a shared vision that balances visitor experience, historical values, cultural significance, environmental protection and asset management. The quality of the artistic impressions add value to the master plan document, helping to serve a non-technical audience and boost engagement. The result is a comprehensive and pragmatic 20-year master plan that provides a clear direction for a much-loved site in the Fleurieu Peninsula.For more information about the 2024 Landscape Architecture Awards, visit the website.