Get ready, spice enthusiasts and food lovers! The Chilli Fest Willunga returns on 22 and 23 February, at Willunga Recreation Park, promising a weekend full of fiery flavors, vibrant entertainment, and an exciting new attraction. Known as the Fleurieu Peninsula’s hottest event, Chilli Fest is set to deliver more spice, more fun and more reasons to attend this year.In a thrilling addition to the program, the festival will host the inaugural SA Chilli Championship, a 15-round competition where ten brave contestants will tackle increasingly fiery chillies, starting with jalapeños and ending with the notorious Carolina Reapers. The showdown, hosted by Chilli Philli of Burnin Bites Down Under, takes place on Saturday at 2pm. The last person standing will be crowned Chilli Fest Willunga Champion and earn the title of SA Chilli Champion.The festival offers much more than just spice, making it an event for everyone. Visitors can explore more than 20 stalls showcasing hot sauces, pickles, and gourmet treats from local stars like White’s Valley Jalapeños, Grunds Gourmet, and Salt Gang, as well as interstate favourites like Hot Chilli Mama and Edible Alchemy. For green thumbs, two plant stalls will provide expert advice and chilli plants to take home, with gardening tips from experts such as Kym Syrus and Sophie Thomson.Cooking enthusiasts can enjoy live demonstrations from local legends Norma of Whites Valley Jalapeños and Sarmi of Origin of Taste, who will share creative ways to incorporate chillies into everyday meals. Whether you’re looking to add heat to your cooking or grow a thriving chilli crop, there’s plenty to learn and experience.Food lovers will also be spoiled for choice with a mouth-watering array of options, including pizza, tacos, chilli biscuits, ice cream, and chocolates. For those needing a break from the heat, the Chill Garden offers a serene spot to relax with a refreshing drink from local brewers and wineries like Shifty Lizard, South Coast Brewing, and DogRidge Wines. The festival’s signature sangria will also be on offer, all accompanied by live performances from talented local musicians.Chilli Fest Willunga isn’t just a celebration of spice; it’s a community event with a purpose. Proceeds from the festival support the Willunga Recreation Park, a treasured community-owned facility. Funds raised go directly toward maintaining and developing this venue.The event will run on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 February 23 at Willunga Recreation Park, located at 5 Main Road, Willunga. Entry is $10 for adults, with children under 16 free, and a weekend pass available for $15.

Police have apprehended a man following a reported theft at a shopping complex in Noarlunga Centre early this morning.Authorities allege the incident occurred just after 1 a.m. on Monday, December 30, when the suspect gained access to a storage area at a sporting goods store by cutting through a fence.Police patrols, along with Police Dog Axe and PolAir, were dispatched to the scene to track down the individual. The suspect was found hiding in nearby bushes.A 45-year-old man from Port Willunga has been charged with trespassing, theft, and providing false information to police. He has been granted bail and is scheduled to appear in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court on January 30, 2025.

Port Elliot’s popular swimming pontoon is set to return to Horseshoe Bay for the remainder of the summer, following a special meeting of Alexandrina Council last Monday 23 December.Reinstallation will take place as soon as the contractor is available and it will remain until the end of the surf lifesaving season, after Easter 2025.It will be funded with in-kind support from Goolwa Jetty Builders and, if required, offers of personal financial support from Finniss MP David Basham, the Owler family and Thomas Foods. Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes hopes the pontoon will be back in place in early January.“I am personally pleased that we have been able to find a solution that should put the pontoon back into Horseshoe Bay as soon as the Goolwa Jetty Builders can fit us in, hopefully in the coming week. I’d like to thank this local business for their generous in- kind support.” The council decision followed a meeting hosted by the SA Coastal Councils Alliance (SACCA) on 18 December to discuss a more reasonable approach to the management of pontoonsacross South Australia.Alexandrina Council says it has been in discussion with the Local Government Risk Service/Mutual Liability Scheme (indemnifier), resulting in a revised management regime and significantly reduced compliance costs.The main change is dropping the requirement for daily inspections by boat or drone. Instead there will be weekly inspections from the shore, which the council can accommodate as part of its weekly open space inspections in the area.The pontoon has been a feature of Horseshoe Bay since 2012. It washed ashore in September after being damaged during a storm and breaking free of its mooring.The council will hold a workshop in February to consider long-term management of the pontoon to which it will invite interested community organisations. It expects to make a decision ahead of the end of the surf lifesaving season in April.MP David Basham has been an enthusiastic supporter of the community campaign for the pontoon's return to the water, personally pledging $10,000 towards the cause."I am excited to see the pontoon used again this year for Surf Life Saving, social swimming groups, children having fun, and VacSwim programs that teach ocean safety to our children and save lives."Mayor Keith Parkes says the council has a responsibility to consider the risks, public liability requirements, maintenance obligations and financial impacts to the whole community.“It’s been a mammoth job by Council, SACCA, the LGA, our financial and in-kind donors, our community, and our indemnifiers to come to this position where we can place this much-loved asset back in the water at no additional cost to ratepayers while making sure we are insured.“Based on initial advice, we were looking at significant costs to cover boat inspections seven days a week and biannual underwater engineering inspections.“I would like to extend my thanks to the LGA and SACCA for their advocacy and thank the Mutual Liability Scheme, our indemnifiers, for working with us to come to a less onerous compliance program of weekly inspections from shore, monthly inspections by boat or drone and an annual structural assessment of the pontoon and mooring.“Alexandrina is not the only council that has inherited the responsibility and associated costs of installing, maintaining and insuring pontoons due to community groups being unable to obtain commercial insurance. We know other coastal communities are watching our outcome.The District Council of Yankalilla has recently been through a similar process with its pontoon at Normanville, which was reinstalled before Christmas.

A river runs through it: Author Darry Fraser’s journey from paddle steamers to page turnersWords: Laura Dare courtesy Coast Lines magazineAt her home on the Fleurieu Peninsula, where the mighty Murray meets the sea, best-selling author Darry Fraser finds herself exactly where she wants to be. “Way back in the 60s, I was living in the mid-Murray at Swan Hill, and now I am living in this most beautiful area at Goolwa, the mouth of the Murray, and I’m as entranced as I was when I was a kid,” she says. “Something led me by the nose, and I’ve landed in Goolwa, and I couldn’t be happier.”Darry Fraser is one of Australia's most beloved historical fiction authors, and the Murray is the muse that inspires much of her writing, running through her tales of adventure, love, mystery and mayhem that have captivated so many readers at home and abroad.Darry’s love for storytelling began early. “I was always writing. I've been writing little stories since I actually learned to handwrite,” she says. Her move as a child from Melbourne to Swan Hill on the banks of the Murray was a pivotal moment in her life. The sight of an old paddle steamer moored for restoration and a recreated 19th-century settlement sparked her imagination: “I was probably eight years old, and I still remember this as clear as day … suddenly a whole world opened up for me. It was almost like I’d time travelled.” From that point on, she knew she was destined to explore the stories of Australia’s most iconic river and the lives of the people swept up in those tales, during the nineteenth century.“At the ripe old age of my early 20s, I decided to write the greatest novel known to man, and very long story short, 33 years later, it became Daughter of the Murray, my first book published with HarperCollins Australia in 2016,” Darry says. The slightly longer version is that it wasn’t until she was in her 50s that she decided it was “now or never” and started to take her writing seriously. That decision – and the hard work that followed – has led to ten books published by HarperCollins, a thriving career, and a dedicated reader base.One of the hallmarks of Darry’s stories is her portrayal of women. “People often ask me at book readings whether my female protagonists are ‘strong’ or ‘ahead of their time’, but to me, they’re very much typical women of their time,” she says.When the question arises, she tells her audience, “every one of you sitting here today would have a counterpart 150 or 200 years ago. Would you consider yourself a strong woman or just someone getting on with what needs to be done within the constraints of your society?” “Human nature doesn't change. We might have been disadvantaged by the law or society back then, but we weren’t beaten down to nothing. We did have a voice.”While Darry’s novels always feature a relationship between her female protagonist and a good bloke, as well as a ‘happy for now’ ending, they’re much more than just romances.Darry says her novels bring together action, adventure and political stress during the nineteenth century, “when things were vastly different. When I started writing, that was really appealing to me, and it still is,” she says.Each of her novels has a backdrop of historical fact and her stories imagine the lives of ordinary people within extraordinary historical contexts. “History notes that something happened, but it doesn't note the trauma or the drama that was associated with it for the little Jo Blogs, who was on the ground at the time,” she says. “We assume it was awful, but the real feeling of what it was like for the people living through it comes when the novelist gets a hold of it.”The historical accuracy of her novels is something Darry takes very seriously. Her new release, The Night on the Darling River, is no exception, immersing readers in the harsh realities of nineteenth-century life and a story of survival against the odds. The book follows Tessa, a woman fleeing an abusive marriage, who finds herself on a paddle steamer heading upstream in the dead of night – only to discover her husband is also on board. “She gets caught up in the burning of the PS Rodney, and we follow her story as she reclaims herself and her life,” Darry says. Although Darry jokes that her income as a writer won’t be funding, “a penthouse overlooking Sydney Harbour,” anytime soon, she’s very happy with where she’s ended up - earning an income from her passion in life.Her schedule as a full-time writer starts with an early morning walk with her ‘wonder dog’, Hamish, before settling in with him at her feet for work in her office. “Whether I'm researching, writing, doing social media, or marketing, that's just how it falls each day. Seven days out of seven, I’m at the computer doing something related to writing – but I wouldn’t want it any other way.”Visit darryfraser.com for all the news about Darry Fraser’s latest releases and book tours. WIN your own signed copy of Darry's book 'The Night on the Darling River' on the Fleurieu App's WIN page here

Attention drivers! Country Fleurieu Peninsula roads will be monitored by mobile speed cameras from now until January 5. These cameras are in place to improve safety and encourage responsible driving in rural areas. Below is the list of locations where speed compliance will be enforced over the coming weeks. Please drive cautiously, follow the speed limits, and contribute to safer country roads.ALEXANDRINA RD, CURRENCY CREEKALFORD RD, WALLAROOARMSTRONG RD, VICTOR HARBORBARRAGE RD, GOOLWA SOUTHBATTUNGA RD, MEADOWSBAY RD, MOONTABEACH RD, GOOLWA BEACHCADELL ST, GOOLWACROWS NEST RD, PORT ELLIOTDASHWOOD GULLY RD, MEADOWSGOOLWA RD, CURRENCY CREEKGOOLWA RD, MIDDLETONHUTCHINSON ST, GOOLWAMAIN SOUTH RD, MYPONGAMAIN SOUTH RD, YANKALILLAMAWSON RD, MEADOWSMAWSON RD, MEADOWSNORTH TCE, PORT ELLIOTPAGES FLAT RD, MYPONGAPORT ELLIOT RD, GOOLWA BEACHPORT ELLIOT RD, PORT ELLIOTTORRENS ST, VICTOR HARBORVICTOR HARBOR RD, MOUNT COMPASSVICTOR HARBOR RD, MOUNT JAGGEDVICTOR HARBOR RD, WILLUNGA HILLVICTOR HARBOR RD, HINDMARSH VALLEYVICTORIA ST, VICTOR HARBOR

Good morning! On Sunday, December 29, Noarlunga and Lonsdale are the key areas being targeted by mobile speed cameras. These cameras are vital for enhancing road safety and ensuring drivers follow speed regulations. Below is a list of the locations where speed compliance will be monitored today. Be mindful of your speed and drive safely to protect everyone on the road.BAINS RD, WOODCROFTBARCELONA RD, NOARLUNGA DOWNSCHANDLERS HILL RD, HAPPY VALLEYEASTON RD, HAPPY VALLEYECHUNGA RD, ECHUNGAGRAND BVD, SEAFORD RISEHAPPY VALLEY DR, HAPPY VALLEYLONSDALE RD, HALLETT COVEMAIN SOUTH RD, HACKHAMMAIN SOUTH RD, O'HALLORAN HILLONKAPARINGA VALLEY RD, CHARLESTONRIVER RD, NOARLUNGA DOWNSSHERRIFFS RD, LONSDALESOUTHERN EXP, LONSDALE

28 Dec 2024 8:18pmA man has died after a crash at Wattle Flat.About 2.50pm today (Saturday 28 December), police and emergency services were called to Main South Road after reports of a crash involving a Subaru station wagon and a Kawasaki motorcycle.The rider of the motorcycle, a 55-year-old Aldinga Beach man died at the scene.The driver of the Subaru, a 53-year-old Glenalta man was not injured.Road closures remain in place while Major Crash officers examine the scene.The man’s death is the 88th life lost on South Australian roads this year.

Farm dams play a critical role in water supply in the Mount Lofty Ranges. However, they require ongoing maintenance to ensure they continue to function effectively and avoid potential damage to people, property, and the environment.To assist local landholders in understanding how to properly inspect and maintain their dams, Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu is offering a series of free workshops in early 2025.Pia Charlton, Senior Stewardship Officer at Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu, explains what participants can expect from the workshops.“Farm dams are vital assets for agriculture, the environment and water security. Regular inspections and maintenance are key to preventing costly or dangerous issues.“During these interactive workshops, participants will take part in a farm dam inspection. We’ll discuss common issues that impact dam integrity and capacity, share basic maintenance tips, and answer any questions attendees may have.”Workshop topics will include:How to conduct a dam inspection and what to look for.Common dam issues and practical steps to resolve them.Tips for improving dam water quality.Your responsibilities as a dam owner, including how to apply for permits for major works.Understanding your dam’s role in the local catchment and broader landscape.“Anyone with a dam on their property who wants to learn more about how to maintain it is encouraged to attend,” Pia says.The workshops will take place in Finniss, Myponga, Onkaparinga, and Gawler catchments throughout February 2025. The project also includes the establishment of two demonstration sites to showcase the benefits of improved dam management and a range of printed and digital resources for landholders.Learn more about inspecting and maintain your dam and register for one of the free interactive workshops online.  landscape.sa.gov.au/hf/damsafetyThis project is delivered by Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu, in partnership with the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, with funding from the state government’s Landscape Priorities Fund and the Department for Environment and Water.

28 Dec 2024 4:10pmPolice are at the scene of a serious crash at Wattle Flat.About 2.50pm today (Saturday 28 December), police and emergency services were called to Main South Road after reports of a crash involving a car and a motorcycle.The rider suffered serious injuries.Road closures are in place at the intersections of Forktree Road and Pine Hill Road.Please avoid the area if possible.

The Fleurieu Film Festival is set to return for its ninth annual celebration, promising an unforgettable evening of film, food, and entertainment in the heart of McLaren Vale. Scheduled for Saturday, 8th February 2025, the lush gardens of the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre will transform into an enchanting outdoor cinema for the occasion.This year’s festival will feature a carefully curated selection of short films showcasing creativity, innovation, and diversity in filmmaking. From emerging talent to seasoned creators, the event celebrates the best of South Australian and international storytelling. Among the evening’s highlights is the prestigious "Focus on the Fleurieu" award, which honours films made in the region. This special category shines a spotlight on the Fleurieu Peninsula, celebrating its beauty and culture while recognising the work of local filmmakers.The festival is a community-focused event with something for everyone. As the sun sets, attendees can enjoy live music performances, indulge in local food truck offerings, and experience the magic of open-air cinema under the stars. The venue’s stunning backdrop in McLaren Vale provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for families, friends, and film lovers.Whether you’re a budding filmmaker eager to showcase your work or someone looking for a unique cultural experience, the Fleurieu Film Festival is not to be missed. It’s a celebration of storytelling, community spirit, and creativity in one of South Australia’s most picturesque regions.Tickets for the Fleurieu Film Festival 2025 are on sale now. For more information and to secure your place, visit the festival’s official website or book directly through TryBooking.Website: www.fleurieufilmfestival.com.au/ticketsBooking Link: TryBookingJoin the Fleurieu Film Festival for a night of cinematic brilliance, local flavours, and the timeless magic of storytelling under the stars. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss.

Young people in Alexandrina aged from 5 to 18 can discover the magic of theatre in a free fun and interactive introductory workshop these summer holidays, to be held at Mount Compass Memorial Hall on Thursday 9 January.Great for all levels of experience, kids will explore the basics of acting, improvisation, character creation, and storytelling.They can build confidence, unleash their creativity, and learn how to bring stories to life —all in a supportive and playful environment.There are three sessions for different age groups:10am to 11.10am for 5-8 years.11.30am -to 12.45pm for 9-12 years.1pm to 2.20pm for 13-18 years.These age groups are a guideline and some young people may be served best if they are on the cusp of either age to go up or down a group.Book a place in any of these free workshops via Humanitix. Contact Play Every Day Productions via email to discuss accessibility requirements.

Three boys will face youth court for a trespass at Seaford Rise Primary School.About 12.30am Friday 27 December, a police security officer responded to alarms at the Seaford Rise Primary School.Three youths were seen to run from the school and a police patrol responded to assist.A subsequent investigation led police to the home addresses of three youths where the youths made full admissions to being at the school.A 16-year-old boy from Seaford Rise, a 16-year-old boy from Morphett Vale and a 15-year-old boy from Happy Valley were arrested and charged with serious criminal trespass. The investigation is continuing with further assessment of school buildings to be made.

The McLaren Vale Wine Region is set to come alive this summer with the return of the SummerVines Festival, scheduled from 17 to 27 January 2025. This eleven-day celebration will showcase the region's vibrant wines, delectable local produce, live entertainment, and relaxed coastal ambiance, offering both locals and visitors an immersive experience into the essence of McLaren Vale.SummerVines 2025 coincides with the 25th Santos Tour Down Under, adding even more buzz to McLaren Vale's summer. Visitors can witness the Women’s Stage 2 race on Saturday, 18 January, and the Men’s Stage 5 race on Saturday, 25 January, while revelling in the festival’s lively ambiance. The festival's official website is now live, with events continually being added to the program. Attendees can look forward to a diverse range of activities, including wine and food pairings, tastings, vineyard tours, and masterclasses, all set against the stunning backdrop of McLaren Vale's coastal landscape. Here are some of the highlights to look forward to:Lavish Lawns at Beresford EstateKick off your summer at Beresford Estate’s Lavish Lawns on 18 January 2025. With the perfect blend of sun, sips, and soulful tunes, relax on their lawns and enjoy live music from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Dumpling Days at Woodstock WineJoin the team from LUCKY - Dumpling & Noodle at The Lawns at Woodstock on 18 and 25 January 2025. Enjoy an array of delicious dumplings, Woodstock wines, and live acoustic music in a family-friendly setting. Olé! Croquet, Wine Tasting, and Sangria on the Lawn at Battle of Bosworth WinesCelebrate SummerVines at Battle of Bosworth on 18 January 2025. Enjoy a refreshing Sangria made with their very first vintage Grenache as you relax in the garden or take a swing at croquet. A Donkey-Led Wine Adventure by Journey Home WinesEmbark on a delightful Walking Donkey Wine Tour on 19 January 2025. Wander through lush vineyards with donkey companions, sip the region’s finest wines, and enjoy local delicacies. Sunset Dinner at the d'Arenberg CubeExperience magical sunset views over McLaren Vale with a vibrant banquet dinner at the d'Arenberg Cube on 25 January 2025. Enjoy a three-course South-East Asian inspired cuisine on level 3 of the Cube. Mayor Moira Jenkins expressed her enthusiasm for the festival, stating, "Events like SummerVines not only highlight our stunning coastline and vibrant community but also attract visitors who bolster our local economy. We're looking forward to seeing our community and visitors come together for an incredible celebration of McLaren Vale's unique offerings."To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, attendees are encouraged to plan their visits in advance, considering transportation and accommodation options. Detailed information about the festival's events, ticketing, and updates can be found on the official SummerVines website. As the festival approaches, the McLaren Vale community eagerly anticipates welcoming guests to share in the region's rich culture, exceptional wines, and the unparalleled beauty of its coastal environment.For more information and to stay updated on event announcements, visit the official SummerVines website.

The state government is expanding eligibility for a range of household concessions for South Australians living in shared rental accommodation from 1 January, providing greater cost-of-living relief.A 2023 Concessions Review, commissioned by Human Services Minister Nat Cook, identified thousands of people living in shared accommodation settings were missing out on concessions because of the income of their housemate or their type of tenancy agreement. This included those whose household relied in part on a Centrelink income.Under existing criteria, renters in shared accommodation can lose access to the energy concession if a housemate has an annual income as low as $3,000 and miss out on the Cost-of-Living Concession (COLC) if their housemate earns more than $24,000.The changes, which come into effect from 1 January 2025, will see the co-resident income assessment scrapped, unlocking eligibility for renters who have previously not been eligible due to their housemate’s income.For example, an Age Pensioner who has an adult child move back into the home, under current arrangements, could lose access to some of their concessions, even if their child only works part-time.Supported Residential Facilities and rooming houses, which are required to have relevant written tenancy agreements, can currently only have one person claiming the COLC, despite almost all residents being on low incomes.As part of a $115 million concessions boost in the 2024-25 State Budget, a bonus COLC payment of $243.90 was made to about 212,000 households in June. The Budget also permanently doubled the COLC for renters and self-funded retirees who now get the same as homeowners. These higher payments started in August.Applications for the 2025/26 Cost-of-Living Concession will be assessed on circumstances as at 1 July and paid in August. People can find out more information by calling the Concessions Hotline 1800 307 758 or visiting the website.   

The City of Onkaparinga is actively seeking community support to transfer the ownership and operation of its Community Wastewater Management Systems (CWMS) to SA Water, aiming to enhance service efficiency and reduce costs for residents. Currently, the council manages seven CWMS networks serving approximately 4,500 households in areas not connected to SA Water's sewer network, including Clarendon, Maslin Beach, McLaren Flat, McLaren Vale, Morphett Vale, Sellicks Beach, and Willunga. Following extensive community engagement, residents have expressed a clear preference for these assets to remain in public ownership, with many favoring SA Water—the state's largest water utility—due to its expertise and economies of scale. The council believes that SA Water's management could lead to reduced wastewater charges for many customers. To advance this initiative, the council has launched a petition addressed to the South Australian Parliament's House of Assembly, advocating for the transfer of CWMS assets to SA Water. Community members are encouraged to participate by signing the petition, available at council offices, libraries, and community centers from 31 October 2024 to 20 January 2025. It's important to note that, in accordance with House of Assembly guidelines, the petition requires physical signatures; therefore, an online option is not available. In January 2025, the petition will be presented to a local Member of Parliament for tabling. Regardless of the petition's outcome, the council remains committed to exploring opportunities to improve the efficiency and sustainability of its wastewater management systems. Residents are urged to participate in this significant community initiative by visiting their nearest council facility to sign the petition before the 20 January 2025 deadline. For more information on the CWMS networks and the petition, please visit the City of Onkaparinga's official website.

Advisor Contribution by Catapult Wealth | Dec 20, 2024 | Farming, Financial Planning, In the media 1.Equipment FinancingFarmerI’m thinking of buying a new tractor, but the cost is pretty high. What are my financing options here in Australia?Financial Adviser:In Australia, you have several options. You can take out a Chattel Mortgage, Finance Lease, or explore loans through schemes like the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) loans. Each option has different benefits.Farmer:Can you explain the difference between a Chattel Mortgage and a Finance Lease?Financial Adviser:Sure! A Chattel Mortgage allows you to own the equipment from day one. The lender secures the loan with the tractor itself, and you make repayments over time. You can claim GST credits on the purchase and deduct depreciation and interest expenses.A Finance Lease is different. You don’t own the tractor — the finance company does. You make regular payments to lease it, and at the end of the lease, you can choose to buy it or upgrade to a new one. It’s good for cash flow since the payments are lower than a Chattel Mortgage, but you won’t get ownership unless you buy it at the end.Farmer:I’d rather own it and take advantage of the GST credits, so I think a Chattel Mortgage is better for me. What’s next?Financial Adviser:You’ll need to provide your financial statements — typically your profit and loss statement, balance sheet, and tax returns. If you qualify, you might be able to use the Australian Government’s Temporary Full Expensing scheme to deduct the full cost of the tractor in your taxes for the year of purchase.Farmer:That sounds like a great tax benefit. How do I apply for a Chattel Mortgage?Financial Adviser:We’ll compare lenders to find the best rate and terms. You’ll want to prepare a deposit (if required), but many lenders offer 100% finance for farm equipment if your financials are strong.2.Managing Off-Season Cash FlowFarmer:Cash flow is always tight during the off-season. What can I do to manage that better?Financial Adviser:It’s a common challenge for farmers. One option is to use a Farm Management Deposit (FMD). This allows you to set aside pre-tax income in good years and draw on it during tougher times, reducing your taxable income in good years.Farmer:How does the Farm Management Deposit (FMD) work exactly?Financial Adviser:Here’s how it works: In profitable years, you deposit funds into an FMD account, and those funds are tax-deductible for that financial year. When you withdraw the funds in a later year, they’re treated as taxable income. It’s a way to smooth out the highs and lows of farm income. The deposit must be held for at least 12 months to qualify for the tax benefit.Farmer:That sounds useful. What if I need extra cash on top of that?Financial Adviser:You can also look at a Seasonal Overdraft. It’s a type of flexible credit facility tailored for farmers. It allows you to borrow up to a certain limit during the off-season, and you only pay interest on what you use. It’s more flexible than a standard term loan.Farmer:How do I qualify for an overdraft?Financial Adviser:You’ll need to provide your financials and cash flow projections. Lenders will assess your ability to generate income during harvest to repay the facility. Because it’s secured against your farm assets, rates are generally lower than unsecured loans. 3.Risk Management & InsuranceFarmer:What can I do to protect my crops from disasters like floods or bushfires?Financial Adviser:The best option is Multi-Peril Crop Insurance (MPCI). It protects you against risks like drought, flood, hail, and bushfire. This type of insurance covers both yield losses and income loss.Farmer:Is it expensive?Financial Adviser:It depends on the crops you grow and the level of coverage you choose. However, the Australian Government sometimes provides subsidies or rebates on insurance premiums, especially after natural disasters. It’s important to weigh the cost of insurance against the potential financial loss if disaster strikes.Farmer:Can I claim any of these insurance premiums on my taxes?Financial Adviser:Yes, crop insurance premiums are typically tax-deductible as a business expense, so you can claim them when you do your tax return.Farmer:Is there anything else I should consider?Financial Adviser:Yes, review your farm’s business interruption insurance. If a bushfire or flood disrupts operations, this insurance covers lost income. Some farmers also look into livestock insurance to protect against disease or theft. 4.Government Grants, Loans & SubsidiesFarmer:Are there any government grants or schemes I should be aware of?Financial Adviser:Yes, definitely. Here are a few key ones for Australian farmers:Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) Loans – Low-interest loans for drought resilience, on-farm improvements, and more.Drought Assistance Programs – Support for farmers impacted by drought, including grants and loans.Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) – Financial support after natural disasters like floods or bushfires.AgriFutures Australia Grants – For specific agricultural innovations and diversification.Farmer:How do I apply for an RIC loan?Financial Adviser:You’ll need to submit an application with your financial records, details of the proposed project (like a water infrastructure upgrade), and a cash flow projection. RIC loans often have interest-free periods to help with cash flow, so they’re worth looking into. 5.Retirement and Succession PlanningFarmer:I want to make sure my kids can take over the farm when I retire. How do I plan for that?Financial Adviser:Succession planning is crucial for Australian farmers, especially with issues like Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Stamp Duty. First, we’ll look at whether you want to gift, sell, or transfer the farm to your kids.Farmer:I’d rather pass it on without them having to buy it. Is that possible?Financial Adviser:Yes, but there are tax implications. If you gift the farm, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) may apply, but there are concessions, especially for farming businesses. The Small Business CGT Concessions may reduce or eliminate the tax if you meet the eligibility criteria. We can also explore setting up a family trust to transfer ownership more smoothly.Farmer:That sounds complex. What about Centrelink payments? I heard giving away assets might affect my pension.Financial Adviser:That’s true. If you gift the farm to your kids, Centrelink will treat it as a deprivation of assets, which could reduce your pension eligibility. However, if you transfer it under a family succession plan, there are some exceptions. We’ll want to discuss the best way to structure the transfer to avoid issues with Centrelink.Farmer:Can you help with that?Financial Adviser:Absolutely. We’ll work with a solicitor to draft the succession plan and structure it to minimise tax, maintain your pension, and keep the farm running smoothly.Summary of Key Tools & Schemes for FarmersCategoryAustralian OptionsEquipment FinanceChattel Mortgage, Finance Lease, RIC LoansCash Flow ToolsFarm Management Deposit (FMD), Seasonal OverdraftInsuranceMulti-Peril Crop Insurance (MPCI), Livestock InsuranceGovt SupportRIC Loans, Drought Assistance, NDRRASuccessionFamily Trusts, Small Business CGT ConcessionsTony CattDIRECTOR - Catapult WealthWith over two decades of experience in the finance industry, Tony has seen many changes in the markets. Tony has a background in accounting, research, stockbroking and financial planning which allows him to provide a broad range of advice to his clients on different stages of their life. Tony has significant experience in lecturing and seminars, providing help to Regional Skill Training (RST), the Australian Shareholders Association (ASA), regional TAFE and the ASX investor hours for over a decade.After marrying into a farming family, Tony decided to provide more help to family businesses in South Australia. Succession planning, retirement planning, education of the next generation and protection of wealth are major issues that have been identified.Tony is ideally skilled to help families and as a specialist Self-Managed Super Fund adviser, Tony has the ability to transition clients into retirement with cost effective, tailored retirement solutions.Keep it simple is our main approach and we ensure that you understand every facet of how your money is invested.QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:Bachelor of Commerce (Adelaide University)Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance (Kaplan)Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning (Kaplan)Fellow of FINSIAContact UsP: (08) 8172 9111F: (08) 8333 1932E: [email protected] Vale233 Main RoadMcLaren Vale SA 5171

Regular visitors to Adelaide and Fleurieu national parks are benefiting from a healthier lifestyle, potentially saving the state’s economy $140 million a year in avoided healthcare costs.Those are the key findings of a new study into the recreational and wellbeing benefits of the state’s metropolitan national parks.The study, undertaken by researchers at the University of Adelaide on behalf of the Department for Environment and Water, found a notable difference in health between those individuals who visit parks and those who don’t.The study focused on 20 popular parks and reserves including Anstey Hill, Cleland, Deep Creek, Morialta, and Onkaparinga.Researchers assessed visitor use patterns, self-reported health scores and travel estimates to explore the health and wellbeing-related economic benefits of park visitation.Director Regional Operations with National Parks and Wildlife Service Stuart Paul says this important study serves to reinforce the crucial role parks and reserves play in health and wellbeing.“We know there’s a strong connection between people’s health and nature. Evidence shows that spending time in nature is good for us it improves our physical and mental health as well as providing opportunities for us to connect with friends and family,” he says.“By visiting a national park you’re also helping to ease the burden on the health system and improve the state’s economy.”Mr Paul says the report also highlights the importance of creating opportunities for equitable access to parks for improved health outcomes across the whole community.“The government committed an additional $30 million in the State Budget towards maintaining and improving our national parks, ensuring they remain a haven for wildlife and biodiversity, as well as improving visitor experiences.“Insights from this report will be essential for informing future policy decisions and investments in our national parks.”Key findings from the study include: On average, regular park visitors are 4 per cent healthier that those who do not visit parks. The better health of regular visitors to metro parks equates to $140 million a year in potential avoided health expenditure on chronic diseases in South Australia. Most residents can access an Adelaide metropolitan park within 30 minutes of their home (approximately 13 km). People of lower socio-economic areas visit parks less frequently because they have further to travel. Creating parks closer to lower socio-economic groups would potentially lead to improved health outcomes for these groups.View the full report on the Parks SA website.

South Australia Police (SAPOL) has issued a strong summer safety message to water users following a series of serious incidents along the coast in recent weeks. Police have coordinated search and rescue operations for five capsized small boats, one of which tragically resulted in a fatality. The warning comes as authorities prepare to ramp up safety compliance measures on both coastal and inland waters throughout the holiday period.Acting Senior Sergeant Darian Leske from SAPOL’s Water Operations Unit emphasised the importance of preparation and responsibility for anyone heading out on the water. He urged boat operators to avoid unnecessary risks and always plan ahead.“The summer holidays wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach, river, or lake, but it’s crucial to be prepared and avoid taking unnecessary risks,” he said. “Police and Marine Safety Officers have zero tolerance for anyone operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Those risking their own safety or the safety of others will be held accountable.”Boaters are reminded to carry the correct safety equipment for their area of operation, ensure it is in working order, and keep items such as flares and life jackets within their expiry dates. Sergeant Leske also stressed the importance of informing someone of your plans, including when you expect to return, as this could make all the difference in an emergency.The Manager of Marine Safety & Compliance, Gordon Panton, echoed the calls for preparedness, noting that nearly 5,404 vessels were inspected by Marine Safety Officers in the past year, with 601 fines issued for non-compliance, including 143 related to life jackets.“Carrying the right equipment and wearing a life jacket is absolutely critical for a safe day on the water,” Panton said. “We encourage all boaties to gear up and ensure their vessels are shipshape before leaving shore. Safer waterways are more enjoyable waterways, and putting safety first will help ensure a fun day out for all.”Surf Life Saving SA has also joined the call for water safety, with Head of Lifesaving & Emergency Operations Sean Faulkner urging beachgoers to swim at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags. He highlighted the importance of life jackets for all water-based activities, whether on the ocean, rivers, or lakes.“Life jackets save lives, but only if you wear them. It’s one small step that can make a huge difference if something goes wrong,” Faulkner said. He also encouraged boaters to check the weather forecast using reliable sources like the Bureau of Meteorology before heading out and to always let someone know their plans. “Safe boating isn’t just about enjoying the day – it’s about making sure you come home safely to your loved ones.”Meanwhile, SAPOL officers will step up compliance checks over the summer period, utilising powers under the Harbors and Navigation Act 1993 to conduct safety equipment inspections, license checks, and drug and alcohol testing of vessel operators.Acting Senior Sergeant Leske confirmed there would be an increased police presence at local boat ramps and on the water as part of a broader effort to reduce marine-related incidents. “We want everyone to enjoy their time on the water, but most importantly, we want them to return home safely,” he said.For more information on boating rules and regulations, visit the South Australian Boating Safety Handbook at marinesafety.sa.gov.au. If you witness any suspicious or unsafe behaviour, report it to SAPOL by calling 131 444.

Another year of news is almost done and it’s time to relax and celebrate the season.Many thanks to all our readers and contributors across the Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island for your support throughout 2024.We look forward to doing it all again next year.If you have any news tips or story suggestions you can get in touch via email.From the Fleurieu app News team