Words: Susie Williams, courtesy Coast Lines MagazineExplore the coast – A road trip from Noarlunga to Cape JervisTake a picturesque road trip from Noarlunga to Cape Jervis, an adventure packed with stunning coastal views, vibrant wildlife, thrilling outdoor activities, and delightful local businesses. This journey, designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers, showcases the natural beauty and diverse attractions of the region. Pack a bag and get ready to explore the wonders of the Fleurieu Peninsula.Starting point: NoarlungaBegin the journey at Port Noarlunga, a charming seaside suburb known for its rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkelling here is a must, with the Port Noarlunga Reef Sanctuary Zone offering an underwater spectacle of colourful fish and unique marine species. For those preferring to stay dry, a stroll along the jetty provides breathtaking views of the coastline.Port WillungaHeading south, make a stop at Port Willunga, famous for its golden sandy beach and iconic cliffside caves. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a swim or another snorkelling adventure. Don’t miss the remnants of the Star of Greece shipwreck, which lies just offshore and is a favourite spot for divers. For a unique dining experience, the Star of Greece restaurant offers delicious seafood with stunning ocean views.McLaren ValeA short drive inland brings you to McLaren Vale, a renowned wine region with over 70 cellar doors and wineries. Explore the Shiraz Trail by bike, a scenic route through lush vineyards and rolling hills. Visit local favourites like d’Arenberg, where you can enjoy wine tastings and gourmet meals, or take a tour of the unique Cube, a five-story structure housing a wine sensory room, a virtual fermenter, and a 360-degree video room. Enjoy the charm of smaller cellar doors offering warm hospitality.Myponga ReservoirContinuing south, spend an afternoon kayaking at Myponga Reservoir. The serene waters and surrounding bushland make it an ideal spot for a peaceful paddle. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including kangaroos and various bird species. The reservoir also offers excellent fishing opportunities, with species like trout and redfin perch.Onkaparinga River and Aldinga Conservation ParkNext, lace up the hiking boots for an exploration of the Onkaparinga River National Park, which features diverse landscapes from rugged gorges to tranquil wetlands. Hiking trails vary from easy walks to challenging climbs, all offering spectacular views and abundant wildlife. Nearby, Aldinga Conservation Park is perfect for birdwatching and coastal walks, with its salt lakes and dense scrub providing habitat for many species.Ingalalla FallsA hidden gem along the route is Ingalalla Falls, located within the Second Valley Forest. A short, easy hike leads to these cascading falls, surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a refreshing dip in the natural pools.Coastal charms: Carrickalinga, Second Valley, and Rapid BayNearing the coast again, visit Carrickalinga, known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, ideal for a relaxing swim or beachside stroll. A little further south is Second Valley, where dramatic cliffs and rock formations create a stunning backdrop for snorkelling and diving. Rapid Bay is famous for its old jetty and the HMAS Hobart Memorial. Dive sites here teem with marine life, including the elusive leafy sea dragon.Final destination: Cape JervisThe epic journey concludes at Cape Jervis, gateway to Kangaroo Island. Before leaving, take some time to explore the surrounding area. The Deep Creek Conservation Park offers rugged coastlines, scenic walking trails, and panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. If you’re lucky, you might spot migrating whales or playful dolphins near the shore.Additional tipsThis road trip is more than just a day trip – it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and local culture of the Fleurieu Peninsula’s western coastline. Plan for a week to fully appreciate each stop, support local businesses, and soak in the landscapes. Remember to pack sustainably and leave only footprints to preserve the pristine environment for future visitors.So, fuel up the car, grab some adventure gear, and set out on this unforgettable road trip from Noarlunga to Cape Jervis. It’s time to discover the hidden treasures of our beautiful backyard.Photo supplied by SA Tourism

Words: Laura Dare - courtesy Coast Lines MagazineAs spring arrives on the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island, communities are gearing up for one of the region's most beloved traditions – the annual country shows. These events, steeped in history and brimming with local pride, offer a fun family day out, as well as an authentic rural South Australian experience."There’s really something about being involved in something that's 140 years old," says Ian Main, Vice President of the Yankalilla, Rapid Bay & Myponga Agricultural & Horticultural Society. "Nobody knows how our show happens. It's been running for so long that people come and go, but the Yankalilla Show just continues on in its own sort of form."This sentiment is echoed across the Fleurieu and on KI, where shows in Kingscote, Parndana, Port Elliot, Strathalbyn and Yankalilla have become integral parts of the community calendar. Nic Tremaine, President of the Parndana Show Society and curator of the SA Country Shows website, says it's great for local communities to have this sort of social event once a year where people can get together and mingle and talk about current affairs." For Nic, the Parndana show is a family tradition: “I remember going as a child, and my grandfather was on the original committee when they started the show in 1957. Then my parents got involved, and now I'm involved.”Despite how much fun they are, the importance of these shows extends far beyond mere entertainment. They serve as a vital link between urban and rural communities, offering city dwellers a chance to connect with their food sources. "Sometimes when you ask someone, 'Where does milk come from?' and they say, 'From the fridge,' it's a funny answer, but it's understandable when someone grows up in the city their whole life," Nic says. Country shows provide an opportunity to bridge this knowledge gap. Ian remembers a father showing his kids a sheep and explaining that this animal was where their jumpers came from.For the local community, the shows are a collective effort that everyone helps out with. "We get a lot of people volunteering to help out for the day or throughout the year with jobs that we need done," Ian says. This community spirit is the lifeblood of these events, with countless hours dedicated to ensuring their success.The competitions at these shows are as diverse as the communities they represent. From traditional agricultural displays to more modern contests, there's something for everyone. "We've got amazing horse competitions, and there's a shearing competition at our show, which is usually quite entertaining for people to watch," Nic says. The Parndana show also boasts a unique "sheaf tossing" competition, where participants use pitchforks to throw bags of sand as high as they can, mimicking an old farming practice.Over the years, the shows have evolved to include attractions that appeal to a wider audience. The Yankalilla show will feature Fleurieu Marine Education, offering hands-on activities to explore the marine world. "Jam the Unicycling Juggler" and a climbing wall are also set to entertain visitors. Meanwhile, the Parndana show has introduced BMX racing, which has grown to include all age groups. "The dads would steal the kids' bikes and have a go on the track after the children’s competition ended, so they’ve got a competition of their own now. Then last year we thought, 'Oh, well, if the dads are having a go, let's give the mums a chance too,'" Nic says. There’s also whip cracking, a new addition this year to provide "a bit of fun entertainment".These shows also play a crucial role in preserving and promoting local industries. The Yankalilla show has recently reintroduced beef and dairy cattle competitions after a decade-long hiatus, thanks to the efforts of a young committee member. "We've got some young people on the committee now, and we've restarted doing beef and dairy cattle that had dropped off for about 10 years," Ian says.Across South Australia, there's a strong focus on engaging young participants to continue the country show tradition. Nic says that the Parndana show is a great way to encourage young people to connect with their community – and return to it after leaving for their tertiary education on the mainland. For many, these shows are a highlight of the social calendar. Both Nic and Ian point out that most social events in country towns revolve around football or other sports, while the show is a place where everyone can get involved, no matter what they’re skilled in. "It includes everybody in the district. No one is excluded," as Nic puts it.Country shows on the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island offer a wide array of competitions that cater to all ages and interests, fostering community engagement and showcasing local talents. As well as the sheep and livestock, the shows all feature extensive arts and crafts sections. "The amount of work that goes on in our main hall, with all the displays, the craft and the photography section, just gets bigger every year," says Ian. These competitions allow both adults and children to showcase their creativity.“The younger kids love coming out with their art and showing their parents what they've done at school or their cooking and those sort of things,” Nic says. “They also love bringing their pet for those competitions. I think one year we even had a stick insect come in as an unusual pet"Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced cancellations, these shows have demonstrated remarkable resilience. Post-pandemic, attendance has rebounded strongly. "Since COVID, I think a lot of the show's numbers have really bounced back, back to averages and beyond what they did before," Nic says.From the Yankalilla show's Spanish horse performances to Parndana's Ligurian honey competition, each event promises a unique experience. These shows are more than just annual events; they are a celebration of community, a showcase of local talent, and a bridge between past and present. Whether you're a long-time local or a curious city dweller, these country shows offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of rural life. But don’t worry – as well as the farm animals and tractors, there are lots of rides, sideshows and showbags on offer at each country show for that total show experience! So mark your calendars, gather your family, and prepare to be part of a tradition that continues to shape and define the Fleurieu Peninsula.Upcoming shows are being held at Strathalbyn on 7 October, Port Elliot Show on 12-13 October, Yankalilla on 5 October, Kingscote on 2 November and Parndana on 16 November.Show details here

During these cold, wintry months, gardens often experience a flowering gap, leaving nectar feeding birds like New Holland Honeyeaters with limited food sources. Planting some local native plants that flower in winter adds some colour to the garden while providing local wildlife with food and habitat…it’s a win-win!Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle)Known for its stunning, pollen-rich yellow flowers, the Golden Wattle is a small tree that attracts honeyeaters and thornbills. Native butterflies including the Wattle blue (Theclinesthes miskini miskini) use Acacia as a food source.Kennedia prostrata (Running postman). A great ground cover with bright red flowers. Kennedia is a host plant and source of nectar for the Grass-blue and Long-tailed Pea-blue Butterflies while also providing shelter for insects and small lizards.Correa Species (Native Fuchsia)A small to medium shrub and great for landscaping, the bell-shaped flowers are particularly attractive to nectar-feeding birds. Look for the local native varieties including Correa glabra and Correa reflexa. Hakea speciesA medium-sized and resilient shrub, Hakeas attract native birds and insects with their unique flowers. The seeds are a favourite food of the Yellow-Tailed Black Cockatoo, making them a valuable addition to any wildlife-friendly garden. Look for local varieties including Hakea carinata and Hakea mitchellii.Hardenbergia violacea (Happy Wanderer)A versatile climber, Hardenbergia supports a diverse array of wildlife. Its mauve purple pea flowers attract native birds, insects, and butterflies, and it serves as a vital food source for native caterpillars, promoting a healthy garden ecosystem.By planting these native species, you can create a vibrant and supportive habitat for local wildlife, ensuring your garden remains a haven for birds and insects even in the coldest months. Visit a local community nursery to ensure you are planting the right species for the local area and watch nature thrive in your own backyard.Second Nature is a not for profit, community based environmental organisation. www.secondnature.org.au

Words: Laura DareAs R U OK? One local resident is on a mission to empower local communities to support each other through life's ups and downs. Matt Newlands, an R U OK? Community Ambassador from Aldinga Beach, knows firsthand the power of a simple conversation in turning someone's life around."It was really because of my community, a couple of close friends and supportive family that got me through a really challenging time," Matt says, reflecting on his mental health struggles. He left the police force in 2015 after a 10-year career, suffering PTSD and depression."I got out of the force in quite dramatic circumstances due to poor mental health at the time and I spent the first couple of years just trying to get myself well again.""There was a lot of stigma around mental health in the community, and certainly in the policing environment. I felt a cultural change was required."Now, as a Lived Experience Educator and counsellor for Frontline Mental Health, Matt is dedicated to breaking down those barriers and fostering a culture of openness and support, particularly for first responders.Matt Newlands, R U OK? Community Ambassador. Photo supplied.The power of connection: why every conversation mattersMatt emphasises the profound impact that simple conversations can have on mental health and suicide prevention. "We're a pack animal, you know, we need to belong somewhere," he explains. "We know that the health impacts of long-term loneliness are significant. We know that people who feel isolated or disconnected from community, it's really harmful to both their physical and mental health."This sense of connection is particularly crucial in preventing suicide. As Matt puts it, "Having a close, connected community is the first step to suicide prevention." He shares from personal experience: "The power of those conversations... it kept me alive. It's keeping other people alive. It can't be understated."Importantly, you don't need to be a mental health professional to make a difference. The R U OK? four-step process provides a framework for anyone to have meaningful conversations:Ask R U OK? - Choose a private moment and ask directly if they're okay.Listen - "Listen with the intention to understand the person's challenge or concern, as opposed to listening to respond, which is often what we do as humans," Matt says.Encourage action - This can mean supporting your friend to seek professional help, but that’s not the only option. "Encouraging action can be about working out the things that you know best serve your wellbeing," Matt says. It could be as simple as returning to self-care strategies that have worked, like maintaining routine, social connections, diet, exercise and sleep.Check in - "That might be the next day, it could be the following week," Matt says. "It's just making sure that the person has options and a safe landing space where they can talk about them – remember this is a process, not a once-off."Matt stresses that often, just being there to listen can make a world of difference. "People tell us a lot what a huge impact it has when they have somewhere that they can bring some of their concerns and challenges – just say it out loud and be heard and valued."Remember, asking R U OK? might seem like a small thing, but as Matt reminds us, it can achieve massive results – like saving a life.The unique challenges of first respondersFirst responders include police, fire and ambulance as well as less well-known roles such as surf lifesavers and National Parks and Wildlife staff, “who were absolutely on the front line during the KI bushfires,” Matt says. The mental health challenges faced by all these groups can be immense. "Research suggests that an average human will experience one to maybe a handful of quite traumatic experiences throughout their lifetime," Matt says. "But over 20 years, a police officer will experience upwards of 800 traumatic experiences.”This stark reality underscores the need for specialised mental health support. "You can't really address that ongoing stress and trauma with a standardised employee assistance program," Matt says. "There needs to be a significant overhaul in how first responder organisations support and care for someone who's going through a difficult time."To address these unique challenges, R U OK? has launched the Are They Triple OK? campaign, focusing specifically on first responders. Matt, who hosts a podcast of the same name, says, “it’s about getting first responders who are confident to speak about some of their challenges, but more importantly, the things that worked for them.”It's one of several specialised R U OK? campaigns that have tailored resources on the website, plus podcasts: There’s We Need To Talk for the LGBTIQA+ community, and MobWay for First Nations people. Regional areas often have limited access to specialised mental health services, making community support even more crucial. "There's still significant challenges and barriers for the rural community in accessing professional support," Matt says – and telehealth isn’t necessarily as effective as face-to-face support.Isolation is another significant factor in regional SA – especially for some farming families. Matt says the Saturday footy game might be the only time of the week for that deeper connection with the community.But he says that, once they’re given the resources and information on suicide prevention, these communities are excellent at recognising the problem, rallying around and developing some community initiatives around solving it.R U OK? DayThis year's R U OK? Day was on 12 September. But Matt stresses that while R U OK? day is an important reminder of the campaign, “every day is a day to have these conversations, talk about the challenges and celebrate the successes." For more information about the R U OK? campaign, visit ruok.org.auFor 24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support, contact Lifeline at lifeline.org.au or 13 11 14.

Words: Laura DareIn a world of fast fashion, Megan Caldersmith is hitting the brakes. As the owner of McLaren Vale’s She Sews and the mastermind behind the region's first Recycled Runway event, Megan shows that style and sustainability are a winning combination.Megan grew up in a family of skilled sewers. "My grandmother taught me when I was about five," she says. "She was a tailor, and my mum was an incredible sewer." This early exposure to sewing laid the foundation for her career in fashion. After starting a Bachelor of Fine Art, Megan realised she wanted a more commercial path and pursued an Associate Diploma of Fashion at TAFE SA. Then, with her best friend and business partner Nicky Atkinson, she bought and revitalised a rundown bridal business called Betrothed in Norwood, which they ran for 12 years. "Doing custom wedding gowns was my number one passion and what I absolutely love doing," she says.Megan and her husband, a winemaker, moved to the Fleurieu Peninsula 10 years ago, drawn by its natural beauty and vibrant community. "We love it so much. We will never leave," she says. "It has absolutely everything – beach, wineries, it's semi-rural. We can walk everywhere or ride our bikes."Megan has immersed herself in the local McLaren Vale community. She is an active member of the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association and organises the annual Christmas pageant. "We’ve always lived where we work," she says. "We like living right in the heart of our community." At She Sews, Megan offers a range of services that showcase her 25 years of experience in the fashion industry. "I just love sewing – in whatever form it takes," she says. Her business specialises in made-to-measure bridal and evening wear, expert alterations and specialty tailoring. From creating custom wedding gowns to altering school uniforms, she breathes new life into garments of all kinds – ensuring fewer textiles end up in landfill.One of her passions is working with vintage wedding dresses. "I do a lot of altering for brides of their mother's wedding dresses. Recently, the trend of wearing that as a second dress has become popular. That's one of my favourite things to do." This blend of old and new perfectly encapsulates Megan's approach to fashion – honouring the past while embracing sustainable practices for the future.Megan's commitment to sustainability extends beyond her day-to-day work at She Sews. This year, with the McLaren Vale Business and Tourism Association and the City of Onkaparinga, she organised the first Recycled Runway McLaren Vale event, which was a massive success. The event challenged participants to create wearable garments from pre-loved clothing. "People paid, registered their interest, and came to She Sews to pick up a bag of five pre-loved garments," Megan says. "They had about six weeks to come up with a wearable garment, and then they paraded them on the catwalk "The event, in which competitors of all ages and sizes showed off their creations at Wirra Wirra Winery, was a huge hit, with 67 registrations, 42 final entries and a sell-out crowd. More importantly, it sparked conversations about sustainable fashion in the community. "I had customers coming in to my shop telling me they had had no idea about the environmental toll of fast fashion, no idea about people working in the industry being underpaid, and that they were going to change their spending habits," Megan says. “Australia's the number one polluter per capita in the world at the moment when it comes to fashion. All that landfill – it’s so depressing. We’re ruining the natural world with what we’re doing right now, but we have an opportunity to stop that.” “I just feel like instead of being overwhelmed, I can do something that makes me sleep at night and perhaps changes some people's views, and surely that's better than nothing.”Building on this success, Megan is already planning next year's Recycled Runway, which will include a category for wearable art or costuming. "Textile art and recycling have always been passions of mine. I love vintage, I love history, and I'm really sentimental. I'm just really enjoying the recycling and upcycling at the moment, but that naturally leads into wearable art and textiles. They're all linked.” She Sews also hosted Recycled Rumble events held over two weekends in June and July to promote circular fashion. People could sell their preloved fashion for a commission, or buy vintage to refresh their wardrobe. The Friday night openings were community parties, featuring a DJ, wine and food. “Then I was open all day Saturday and Sunday both those weekends where people can just come and shop pre-loved garments," Megan says. The Recycled Rumble aims to provide affordable, stylish options for the local community while promoting sustainable fashion.For those looking to make more sustainable fashion choices, Megan offers practical advice. "I would have a look at what's available and what you think you'll wear over and over again," she suggests. "Even if it's a pair of jeans, instead of buying four pairs of jeans just buy one and wear them all the time and cherish them."She also advocates for investing in quality pieces and considering pre-loved options. "Go and spend money on pieces that you will wear a lot and then buy pre-loved to wear with them," she says. "I would really use the word considered – make considered purchasing decisions." "Just make some small changes," she says. "You don't have to change the world. You just need to change some habits and consider what's in your wardrobe." As Megan begins planning Recycled Runway MV 2025, she's excited about the potential for sustainable fashion in the region. With She Sews as a hub for custom creations and alterations, and events like Recycled Runway inspiring the community, Megan is stitching together a future where fashion and sustainability go hand in hand.Find out more about Megan Caldersmith at shesews.com.au or follow recycledrunwaymv on Instagram and Facebook.

Words Christian ThompsonAnyone who follows the Port Noarlunga Facebook Page (facebook.com/portnoarlunga.net.au), will have seen the incredible photos by local Port Noarlunga historian and author Lita Martella.Lita and her husband Frank moved to Port Noarlunga in 1962 and have seen a lot of change over the years.Previously located in Norwood, Lita and Frank took over the Port Noarlunga General Store, The Terminus.“It’s a vacant block of land now,” Frank says. “The building was demolished about 18 months ago.”The couple had also run a store in Norwood, selling Italian groceries.“Back then you couldn’t get much Italian stuff,” Frank says. “ If you wanted olive oil, you’d have to get it from the chemist in tiny bottles! We also had a greengrocery in Marden Shopping Centre.Lita has taken many of the photos for her book, Port Noarlunga, an Endearing Coastal Town.Frank says she got into photography by accident. “When we took over the shop, we used to sell Kodak film. And the previous owners had left a lot of film where the use-by date had expired. We couldn’t sell it, so we went all around Port Noarlunga taking photos just to use up the stock.”Lita adds: “And the chap that built the Terminus that had it before us, he was a photographer and also a printer and he produced a lot of postcards that we would sell. Then when we sold the shop – I still had a lot of his photos and I thought I would start putting them all together.“I also had all the photos I’d taken that showed how the places had changed over time, so I thought I’ll put a book together. And when I started asking other locals for photos, I started to learn a lot more about the history of the area and that’s when I started to put together the first book.”Frank says: “At the time that came out we had gotten to know a lot of the Port Noarlunga locals because we used to deliver papers and every fortnight we would go to their homes and collect the paper money so we got to know people fairly well.”“It really was a small country town back then earlier on,” Lita adds.“Researching it took me ten years. When I first started, I went to the State Library, Noarlunga Library, Mortlock Library and I thought how am I going to put all this information together – so I looked at books that other people had written about their towns, and some of them were a bit boring. Too much text. So I went with more photos.”Frank says: “And so many people said to us thank God Lita did this because nobody has put together a history about Port Noarlunga, and if Lita hadn’t done it, so much history, so many photos would be lost forever. They should name a street after her in her honour for keeping the history alive.”The couple is now regarded at Port Noarlunga royalty, but Lita says when they first moved there, people didn’t like them.“New Australians. We were the first Italians to move to the area. There were a lot of Dutch and German people. Very different now we’re treated like and King and Queen!”Lita and Frank recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary and reflect fondly on their decades in the Port.Lita says the 60s and 70s were the best. “It was still a small country town and everybody knew everyone.”Frank says the first year here was the hardest. “Leaving Norwood – all my relatives and friends and I came here and as Lita said – we were seen as ‘New Australians’, but I became involved with the local cricket club and the local footy club and got to know people and they got to know us. For me apart from that first year, every year has been the best time.Lita’s book Port Noarlunga, an Endearing Coastal Town sells for $30 and can be purchased from the printer - allBIZ at Lonsdale.She has kindly donated a signed copy for one lucky reader to win. Head to the Fleurieu App's WIN Button to enter Or head to Fleurieu News Web App's WIN page.

Words: Christian Thompson - Coast Lines MagazineIn the lead up to SALA, local wave rider and mud slinger Gerry Wedd talked art, surf and music. Gerry was born in McLaren Vale but grew up in Port Noarlunga and started surfing when he was around 11, as well as walking all around and exploring the place.“My older sister was a keen surfer and had a car so I made occasional forays with her down to Middleton but I really grew up surfing at the South Port river mouth - there’s a small reef there called Little Rincon - then you would graduate to Trigs and then down to Seaford. I was very much a grommet. There was a bit of a pecking order back then… Gerry says there was a bit of hierarchy out on the line-up that is probably still there but it was much more pronounced back then. “You really had to earn your place. “It may sound silly but Port Noarlunga is kind of my spiritual home - the formative years - when there were still paddocks everywhere and it was ok for an 11-year-old kid to hitch to the surf. It was such a really great time to grow up there. Some folks say the surf isn’t what it used to be on the mid coast but Gerry says that is nonsense.“I would have started surfing there from 1967 onwards and for many years I lived in the area and even when I moved away, I still came back there to surf. It’s not better or worse. Nothing has changed. It’s just something grumpy old folks say. Gerry 1970. Photo supplied. Gerry got his start making art from a great friend of his parents called Frank Lee, who lived nearby.“I always drew. He was a water colourist and also an illustrator for a couple of magazines and he would drop around and see me drawing and give me all this encouragement and advice about how to make a drawing better. I think there may still be some of his watercolour caricatures of local identities on display at the Port Noarlunga Hotel. “I was drawn to art at school but my mum also made pots – she did a TAFE course and started making pots in the house. She’d be making pots on the kitchen table or in front of the TV. I saw her making things and then selling them… bringing money into the household from doing something that she really loved. I didn’t really think about it at the time, but I’ve thought about it a lot, more recently. She really was a role model in that way – I was like ‘oh you can actually do that - make money from something you love.’ “I always thought that because I kind of gravitated towards those kind of pursuits - and I also really wanted to surf whenever the surf was good - a creative life and a surfing life could go hand in hand. You can be in control of your own hours. “When mum was making and selling things it got to a point where she was wanting to make larger things – like a big bowl or something and I taught myself from books how to make rudimentary things. I was kind of doing a weird apprenticeship with her in a way.Surfing and beach culture – and the Fleurieu itself has influenced Gerry’s work over time. There’s a lot of surf imagery and references in the work he does. “I went to Art School and started making pots and I was very reluctant to use that kind of pop culture imagery because ceramics is so embedded through history and then this thing happened where I submitted some work to (Australian fashion brand) MAMBO. “When I started doing work for them, the director said - what we’re really interested in is your relationship to surf culture - because I was a bit of a nerd about that stuff and still am, so I started doing work for them that was really rooted in surf culture and one day I think I kind of looked at one of my pots and thought - why am I not doing this with my own work? All of a sudden, I got this sense of freedom about how I would address the pots. “And then I just started adding a lot more imagery that was to do with surf and popular culture and music to my pots, which was kind of interesting because that’s what all the old ancient Greek pots have on them. They have songs and stories. So I was actually being incredibly traditional, without consciously knowing it.“With the Ancient Greek pots it was the first time I’d really seen text on ceramic objects and I think I kind of stole that and writing and listening to lyrics is a good way of starting narratives – and narrative imagery. “I started to illustrate songs on pots, but I would work the other way as well where I’d think of an image to put on something and think really hard about what kind of text might either underline the drawing or even question it in some way. I love the play between image and text.”Gerry has also done work with tiles.“As I got more and more interested in the history of ceramics, I really began to love the idea of utilitarian art. My wife and I went to Mexico when we first met and I saw a whole lot of really interesting tiled work there that was influenced by Spanish ceramics and it showed the potential to tell or allude to stories on a functional surface. “Then I started looking at tiles from Holland and all over the world and I like the way that the people who decorated them quite often weren’t great at drawing and so they have a really nice clumsiness and freshness. I like the idea of the tiles being kind of like a ceramic canvas. “I’m in the midst of a 650-tile project at the moment which is kind of driving me crazy! But it’s also very exciting. “I did a big piece for a thing called Australian Art Now a bit over a year ago at the Art Gallery of NSW, which they purchased and they’re going to put it up in the new gallery in the next month or so. That was a really big tiled fireplace surrounded by the lyrics of Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now (The Smiths) and I did a lot of playful stuff to do with the kind of aphorisms that people display in their houses - like Home Sweet Home. Gerry used to be in a band, The Artisans, which had a bit of a Manchester influence. “We were half art school kids, half English people who had grown up listening to all that music. And when we were playing around at places like the Exeter Hotel, I used to paint backdrops for the band so the whole maker / artist / musician / band thing was very strong. I did a lot of the posters along with Mark Kimber. We were all at art school and they wanted a singer and I wasn’t a singer as such but I was one of those people who knew the lyrics to all of the songs.For SALA Gerry is a part of a show at the South Coast Regional Arts Centre at Goolwa called Riposte and also has a show coming up at a place called The Q on Hallett, involving around 20 artists called Just Jugs from 3-23 August. (https://www.salafestival.com/artfuel/program/view/10307/just-jugs) Riposte shows from Thursday 25 July to Sunday 1 September at the SCRAC, Goolwa Terrace, Goolwa.Gerry has kindly donated one of his artworks - head to the Fleurieu App's WIN Button to enter in the draw!Gerry in his studio. Photo supplied.

In August, the Fleurieu Peninsula comes alive with the third annual Fleurieu Food Festival, drawing food enthusiasts and tourists alike to over 50 culinary events. This month-long celebration highlights the rich variety of food and beverage producers in the region.Presented by Fleurieu Food, the festival program features a wide array of activities including masterclasses, tastings, and feasts, all designed to showcase the world-class offerings of local producers. It's a fantastic opportunity for small businesses, including local farms, cafes, restaurants, wineries, breweries, and distilleries, to present premium experiences and connect with visitors from near and far.Some of the many exciting events include Candy land - The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Bec Hardy Wines, where Chef Connor Bishop will dazzle guests with decadent sweet treats. Ashley Park farm offers a walking tour to explore its award-winning pasture-raised eggs under the feather&PECK label, providing insights into regenerative farming. For music lovers, Ekhidna Wines will host a Winter Glitter Ball featuring live music by Funk Fusion, with ticket proceeds supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.Todd Steele, Chair of the Fleurieu Food Festival board is enthusiastic about all that is on offer.“The Fleurieu Peninsula is renowned for its exceptional food and wine. This year’s festival is packed with variety, and I encourage everyone to explore the program and experience the best the region has to offer.”The festival is proudly supported by Community Bank Fleurieu, the City of Onkaparinga, Victor Harbor councils, Office and Image, and the Willunga Farmers Market, with South Australian foodie icon Katie Spain serving as Ambassador.Highlights will include:Winter Cooking Masterclass for Cheese-Lovers.A History of Mississippi Blues Cabaret.Peninsula Providore {Plated Provenance} Long Lunch.Fiano & Fondue Fusion.For the full program and event details, visit the Fleurieu Food Festival website at https://www.fleurieufoodfestival.com.About Fleurieu FoodFleurieu Food is dedicated to promoting the food network on the Fleurieu Peninsula, emphasising local food, wine, produce, and markets. It welcomes visitors and locals, chefs, restaurateurs, microbrewers, and winemakers to join the community. For membership details, visit https://fleurieufood.com.au/membership.

Looking for a serene escape into nature that's accessible to everyone, including those with prams, dogs, or even horses and mountain bikes? Look no further than Kuitpo Forest, on Kaurna and Peramangk Country, near Meadows in the Mount Lofty Ranges.Established in 1898 to ensure a sustainable timber resource for South Australia, Kuitpo Forest has evolved into a 3,600-hectare reserve, with 60 per cent dedicated to plantation. Managed by ForestrySA, this community forest balances sustainable forestry with conservation and recreation.On a crisp autumn morning, we embarked on a stroll along the Forest Trail, accompanied by our furry friends. The tranquility enveloped us as we wandered amidst towering pine trees, following the well-marked trail. The weekday morning afforded the luxury of solitude, punctuated only by the cheerful chirping of birds.Photo: Fleurieu AppAs we meandered along the path, we were delighted by the diverse bird population. From wrens flitting among the branches to honeyeaters, magpies, blue fairy wrens, and willie wagtails, the forest was alive with avian activity. Pine and eucalyptus forests along the trail provided a rich tapestry of habitats, attracting an array of birdlife beyond our expectations.For those seeking a break amidst nature's splendour, the Avenues Picnic Ground offers an ideal respite. With ample parking, wooden picnic tables, bench seats, fire pits, and restroom facilities, it's the perfect spot for a pre- or post-walk picnic. And for added excitement, Tree Climb awaits just across the road.Extend your Kuitpo Forest experience into a weekend getaway at Chookarloo Campground, a peaceful retreat down the road. Set in mixed Eucalypt woodland, the campground offers basic bush campsites equipped with fire pits, untreated rainwater, picnic tables, and accessible toilets, catering to various camping preferences.Adventure seekers will find the forest an orienteering paradise, boasting three permanent courses designed in collaboration with Orienteering SA. With easy and moderate levels, these courses provide an exhilarating introduction to orienteering. Maps are available at the Kuitpo Forest Information Centre or online.Photo supplied by South Australian Tourism Commission. Photo taken by Declan Hartley-BrownFurry companions are welcome in plantation forest areas, including campgrounds, trails, and picnic spots. Just remember to keep them on a lead within designated on-lead zones and under control at all times.With many walking and hiking trails ranging from 1km to 12km, Kuitpo Forest offers something for everyone. Whether you're a casual stroller or a seasoned hiker, there's a path to suit your preference.Embrace the serenity of Kuitpo Forest and immerse yourself in the beauty of South Australia's natural landscapes.Photo supplied by South Australian Tourism Commission. Photo taken by Jack BrookesStory kindly funded through LINA (Local Independent News Association)

Last year the Adelaide Crows welcomed home South Australian midfielder Taylah Levy, signing her as a rookie for the 2023 AFLW season. Hailing from Victor Harbor on the Fleurieu Peninsula, Taylah has returned to her roots after time away playing basketball at Cleveland State University in the United States.Taylah Levy's journey from Victor Harbor to the national stage of AFLW is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering passion. Growing up in the close-knit community of Victor Harbor before completing her schooling at Tatachilla in McLaren Vale, Taylah's childhood was blessed with the simplicity and warmth of small-town life.From an early age, her love for sports knew no bounds. Whether it was shooting hoops on the basketball court, displaying her skills on the netball court, or fearlessly tackling the boys in Aussie rules football, Taylah's versatility and determination were evident.However, it was her prowess on the football field that truly stood out. Joining the South Adelaide Football Club's women's development squad, Taylah's talent shone brightly, culminating in a premiership victory with the SANFLW team's under-16 girls' side in 2016.Her sporting journey took an unexpected turn when she was offered a scholarship to play basketball for the CSU Vikings in 2019. Embarking on a new adventure, she ventured across the seas to Cleveland State University in the US, where she balanced her athletic pursuits with academic excellence, earning a degree in psychology.Despite her basketball endeavours, Taylah’s passion for football never waned. As her time in the US drew to a close, she seized the opportunity to reignite her love affair with the oval ball. After contacting the Adelaide Crows, her determination paid off as she earned a spot on the team, making her AFLW debut in the 2023 season.Representing her state and community on the national stage is a source of immense pride for Taylah. Reflecting on her journey, she emphasises the importance of seizing opportunities and pursuing dreams with unwavering tenacity.Her days are a whirlwind of training sessions, games, and work commitments. Despite the challenges she's faced, including two knee reconstructions, she remains undeterred, fuelled by determination and the strong support of her family.As she continues to hone her skills on the football field, Taylah is grateful for the lessons learned and the memories made along the way, especially the camaraderie shared with teammates.

Bruce Rosewarne, a 77-year-old grandfather of 10, laughs at the mention of retirement. “Why would I want to?” asks the master jeweller, lacrosse legend and talented musician. It’s a good question. Bruce’s zest for life is palpable. Recently returned to Victor Harbor after two decades in Queensland, he says there is still strong demand for his brand of lovingly hand-crafted, custom-made jewellery. Plus, he says, “I just like doing things.” Mastering the craft of jewellery Bruce's professional journey began in 1963 with a six-year apprenticeship as a diamond ring maker and precious gemstone jeweller, complemented by a Diploma of Gemmology from Adelaide University in 1967. Since then, his dedication to his craft has led to numerous accolades during a stellar 60-year career. An award-winning designer, his work has been showcased internationally alongside renowned brands like Tiffany and Bulgari. Bruce is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his commitment to bespoke, handcrafted pieces. He says this approach stands in stark contrast to modern practices that often rely on computer-aided design and mass production. For him, the key is taking the time to talk to the clients and understand them. “I want to know what they want, not what I think they want,” he says. “The saddest thing in this industry is hearing about people having pieces made that they then go away and put in a drawer because they don't like them.” Always passionate about nurturing future talent, Bruce successfully lobbied the state government to establish a training school for South Australian jewellery apprentices to ensure they were taught the skills for creation rather than just repair. He also took on the role as the school’s off-site manager for 15 years during the 80s and 90s. Lacrosse legacy: beyond the field In parallel to his career as a jeweller, Bruce has had a significant impact on the lacrosse community as a player, coach, and administrator. His involvement with the sport began unexpectedly during high school when he was introduced to it by chance. “I was playing soccer at high school and then along comes a man with these wooden sticks.” This chance encounter ignited a lifelong passion, leading him to volunteer extensively in the sport across three states for over fifty years. Bruce’s dedication to lacrosse earned him an Australian Sports Medal in 2000, recognising his contribution to the sport. Rhythms of life: music as a lifelong obsession Music has also played a big role in Bruce’s life. He started his first band at 18 and became a top-notch percussionist and drummer, regularly gigging around Adelaide clubs with his band during the 60s, 70s and 80s. Since his move back to the Fleurieu he has rekindled his love of music by joining the Victor Harbor City Band and the Fleurieu Male Choir. Reflecting on his return to the south coast, Bruce is enthusiastic about the substantial development in the region, particularly the growth of the McLaren Vale vineyards and the new residential developments. "It’s good to see all the new people living down here now: it's not just the holiday destination for families from Adelaide anymore," he says. Bruce is certainly set to stay put on the Fleurieu. "This is home. The children and grandchildren are here. It’s not far from Adelaide, and we’re by the ocean."Surrounded by family, with the sea at his doorstep and music in his ears, Bruce continues to find joy in every aspect of his multifaceted life. The Pink Lady Jessica Watson, an exact replica size of the boat, which Bruce made & gifted to her for her achievement desire and attitude to prove that a young person could actually achieve sailing around the world solo.

The winter months signal more than just cooler weather for the Fleurieu Peninsula – they herald the arrival of whales migrating along the coastline. Make the most of whale watching season The ideal time to witness these gentle giants is between May and October, with peak season from June to September. During these months, both southern right whales and humpback whales grace the south coast as part of their annual migration from the icy waters of the sub-Antarctic. Marine biologist Dr Ali Bloomfield, of Fleurieu Marine Education, says the Fleurieu Peninsula offers prime land-based whale-watching spots, including The Bluff in Victor Harbor, Nakurami Kondoli (the whale lookout at Encounter Bay), Basham Beach at Middleton, and Frenchman's Lookout in Port Elliot. Before setting off on a whale-watching adventure, Ali suggests checking the Encounter Whales Facebook page for up-to-date sighting information. Pack warm clothing, sunglasses, binoculars if you have them, and a thermos of your favourite hot drink. Most importantly, she says, be patient – whale watching requires time and perseverance.Photo: South Australian Tourism Commission. Encounter Bay: a critical nursery Encounter Bay is a vital sanctuary for endangered southern right whales, serving as a breeding and nursery ground. Mothers and calves often spend up to four months in these waters, and the bay witnesses an average of three births each year, making it critical for the species' survival. The Encounter Bay Right Whale Study (EBRWS) spearheads conservation efforts in the area through a citizen science program. It focuses on photo-identification, data collection for national assessments, behavioural studies, and movement tracking. This research is invaluable for refining conservation strategies. Dr Claire Charlton, a marine biologist with EBRWS, says that each year they eagerly anticipate the return of favourite whales to the Encounter Bay nursery. “Many mothers, including Anu, Shamrock, and Chapeau, could potentially visit this season, based on their 3–5-year birth cycles,” she says. “Teresa, a veteran mother first recorded in 2006, is also a hopeful returnee. And let's not forget our beloved males, like Milky Way, Latte, Augustus, and Captain Hook, who always bring a smile to our faces.” “Numerous other females have birthed calves here, and with more photos, we could identify even more individuals,” Claire says. EBRWS encourages anyone with good quality photos of whales to share their images and contribute to this important research effort. Learn, explore, and protect Whale watching offers a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate these magnificent creatures. However, it also serves as a reminder of the threats they face, Ali says. “We want people to appreciate them, as they were hunted to near extinction and they still face threats from humans: entanglement, boat strikes, disturbance, and climate change.” Ali warns that if we don’t take action to conserve whales they might not be around forever. “Southern right whales are an endangered species and last year we didn’t have any resident nursing mothers, which was heartbreaking. We all hope we see some mothers return to our waters to birth and nurse their calves this year.” To deepen your understanding of whales, visit the South Australian Whale Centre in Victor Harbor, offering interactive exhibits, educational programs, and the latest sighting information. Fleurieu Marine Education provides guided tours of the centre and walking tours focused on Victor Harbor's whaling history.There’s no doubt about it – the Fleurieu really is the place to be this winter for a whale of a time!Photo: South Australian Tourism Commission.

The wreck of Star of Greece on 13 July 1888 was an important event in the history of the Fleurieu Peninsula and, more generally, in the colony of South Australia. Today the wreck lies in only 4m of water and a small part of the bow still appears at times of very low tide, to the north of Port Willunga. Proximity to Adelaide makes it the largest and most accessible shipwreck in South Australia for snorkelers and SCUBA divers who regularly visit, usually in the summer months. Star of Greece is an impressive site with massive iron frames and plating spread across the seabed. Experiencing Marine Sanctuaries (EMS) takes snorkelers to the site each year, so if you want a chance to see the site just look up EMS on Facebook. Star of Greece sank after loading 16,002 bags of wheat at Port Adelaide for a return voyage to London and then being towed out to moor off Semaphore. The captain and the last of the crew came aboard on Thursday 12 July 1888 and the vessel set sail to head through Backstairs Passage into the Southern Ocean. At about 3am the next morning, Star of Greece came to grief off Chinaman’s Gully at Port Willunga, only 200m from the shore. When the wreck was sighted at first light, the people of Port Willunga rallied to rescue the distressed crew. Unfortunately, with the sea so turbulent, there was not much they could do. When Mounted Constable Thomas Stephen Tuohy from Willunga reached the scene he dashed into the breakers and rescued one exhausted sailor. He risked his life several times trying to save more but unfortunately eighteen men died in the tragic events of that day and just ten of the crew survived. Some of the bodies of the victims were buried in the Aldinga Methodist (Uniting) Church graveyard and were marked with a memorial obelisk. In 2018 the Willunga Branch of the National Trust of South Australia arranged for a bronze plaque with all 18 names of the deceased seamen to be placed next to the memorial. It is always interesting that many marine artists choose to paint shipwreck events that they have not witnessed themselves. They often appeared on the scene sometime after the shipwreck event had essentially finished. One example, and the most prolific artist of the Star of Greece wreck event, was George Frederick Gregory junior (1857-1913) who was the oldest son of noted Melbourne marine artist George Frederick Gregory senior (1821-1887). At least seven works by G.F. Gregory junior depicting the Star of Greece wreck are known to exist; four are held in public collections (two in the Art Gallery of South Australia, one in the State Library of South Australia and one by the South Australian Maritime Museum) and three are held in private collections. During May through to July 2024 two of the Gregory paintings of Star of Greece were on display in the “Coast” exhibition in the Art Gallery at Waverley Park Homestead. Star of Greece shipwreck by G.F. Gregory junior (c.1888. Private Collection) There are two important public collections of material from Star of Greece, some of which was salvaged at the time of the wreck and other material was raised by SCUBA divers, mainly in the 1950s to 1970s, before state and federal heritage laws largely brought a halt to looting from shipwrecks. One of the Star of Greece artefact collections is exhibited by the Willunga National Trust in the Courthouse Museum, Willunga and the other is held by the South Australian Maritime Museum in Port Adelaide. One significant item from Star of Greece is Captain Harrower’s telescope that was recently purchased at auction by the Willunga National Trust.Star of Greece telescope held by National Trust Chair Dr Paddy O'Toole (photo by Mark Staniforth) Public fascination with Star of Greece is on-going. For more than thirty years Willunga National Trust Branch has conducted an annual Star of Greece heritage walk for members of the public on the weekend closest to 13 July to commemorate the sinking. The next Star of Greece heritage walk will take place in July 2024. Admission to both the Courthouse Museum and Waverley Park Homestead is free, as is the annual Star of Greece heritage walk. For more information and to book see the Willunga National Trust website Dr Mark StaniforthWillunga National Trust memberStory kindly funded through LINA (Local Independent News Association)

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.

Spotlight by Christian ThompsonWhen you think about what makes the Fleurieu great – what comes to mind?Is it the world-renowned wineries? The fantastic restaurants, the local markets and festivals?Maybe it’s the stunning coastline with surf spots ranging from the gentle grommet-friendly waves of Southport to the hairy, hardcore breaks at Knights?For locals and visitors alike, it’s likely to be a combination of all of the above, but for some it’s all about the music.The local live original music scene is an essential part of the Fleurieu’s identity and has been for decades. Of all the things that make the Fleurieu a great place to live, work and play, local music provides the soundtrack, blending the region's unique vibes with the rhythms of daily life.The local music scene doesn’t just support local artists by giving them a platform to perform and grow – from an economic point of view, it brings punters to venues, cafes, wineries and festivals. It’s a win/win. But could it be better?I sat down with local mid-coast muso and keen surfer Nick Vulture to talk a bit about where the local music scene is at, and more importantly, where he’d like it to be.CT: Tell us a bit about your history with music and your history with the mid-coast.NV: I played in a surf/garage/punk band called the Molting Vultures for 18 years. We were influenced pretty heavily by the local punk scene with bands like The Lizard Train and Exploding White Mice – that sort of sound and also more broadly by bands like Radio Birdman, The Ramones and The Stooges. It started as a bit of a laugh and it ended up being a bit of a laugh for nearly two decades!Between 2012 and 2020 I was living in Melbourne and regularly coming back and doing shows with the band. In 2019 I decided to try my hand at doing some solo stuff.I was going to see people play in Melbourne like Charles Jenkins and Tom Redwood, who are both Adelaide ex-pat musos and decided I wanted to have a crack at it. The idea of just being able to pick up a guitar and go anywhere was appealing after all those years of travel and lugging gear.During lockdown in 2020 I started to listen to more varied genres and people more in the singer/songwriter space like John Prine, Justin Townes Earle, Conor Oberst, Phoebe Bridgers and the like. I was attracted to the darker lyrical songs which maybe had something to do with my own personal situation at the time. So over those months of being shut down and shut in, living by myself for a long period of time, I came out of all that with some songs.I moved back home when the borders opened. I’ve been doing solo work here ever since and now I’ve got three albums out.CT: Tell us a bit more about your connection to the mid-coast and the Fleurieu.NV: I didn’t grow up surfing as a kid but when I was about 16 we moved to Sydney for Dad’s job and ended up living not that far from Manly. I went to a school called Freshwater High – sounds like a TV soap opera! but it was close to Manly and everyone surfed so I started to learn myself.When I came home in 1987 I was going to Uni and I was perpetually broke and the closest surf I could get to was the mid coast. And often instead of being at Uni I’d just get in the car and surf the mid-coast and I really grew to love it.CT: What about the surf itself?NV: Surf-wise it’s no Eyre Peninsula. It’s not too consistent but I just love it – it’s such beautiful coastline and the surf is fun - there’s beautiful reef breaks here. So my relationship with the mid started from that. I just fell in love with it.CT: How has the mid-coast influenced your music?Well in terms of the Molting Vultures it definitely did. We had songs about the local surf breaks! I wrote one about Trigs (Trigonometry Point – Port Noarlunga South) and one about Gulls and one about the Trough – It’s goin’ off at the Trough.With the solo stuff I walk this coast a lot and I often come up with songs on those walks. You get in a kind of meditative state where the lyrics really land on you. I have a song called Barbara Grace Scott, which is about one of the bench seats along the coast that has an engraved plaque honouring her. It looks out over the U-Turns surf break. The song isn’t about her life as such but it pays homage to her.CT: You started the mid-coast gig guide Facebook Group, which has about 400 members. How did that come about?NV: I do a lot of things musically in the area – besides my own music. I also run the Saturday Live Sessions at the Port Noarlunga Arts Centre every three months. It’s folk, acoustic kind of stuff. We have two guests on the day – one from anywhere and one from the local area.I also help run the Mid-Coast Folk Club on the last Thursday of the month down at Sourc’d Wine Bar Aldinga. We’ve had some great locals headline, like Tom Redwood and Jen Lush and Jessica Luxx. We had a Queensland band touring Australia called JC & the Tree. They were incredible. We’ve even got a band from Norway playing later in the year.It is really hard work getting people out to watch live original music. It’s definitely gotten harder since COVID so I was thinking about some different strategies around promoting live music, and the mid-coast and surrounds has got quite a few little venues around the place and there are musicians playing original music trying to make a go of it.So I decided to start something up on Facebook. Just mid-coast based original music – I’ve had to decline some cover bands or artists that aren’t on the mid-coast. It’s really about supporting the venues down here and supporting live local original music.CT: Tell us about some of the venues on the mid and surrounds.NV: There are quite a few wineries. Big Easy at Aldinga is one of the more well-known venues. It’s a beautiful spot. There’s also Red Poles at McLaren Vale. Shout out again to the Port Noarlunga Arts Centre - one of the most beautiful sounding venues in Adelaide.Sourc’d that I mentioned earlier has original music every Saturday night. It’s an amazing little space. RIP to The Pepper Tree at Aldinga that closed not that long ago, unfortunately.There’s also the Stone Pony that Jen Lush runs in Willunga. It accommodates bigger touring acts and there’s the Cooee Arthouse at Aldinga that Loren Kate has set up. The Port Noarlunga Football Club still puts on punk and hard rock shows on a semi regular basis. They had a big one recently.CT: What about the Surf Clubs?NV: Yeah the Christies Sailing Club has live music every Friday and Sunday. Southport Surf Life Saving Club also has music – and they’re part of the Port Noarlunga Blues Festival. The surf clubs are great spaces - fantastic locations. I’d love to see more of them get on board. Moana Surf Club had an open mic thing for a while. It’s got all the makings of a great venue.CT: How do you rate the health of the local music scene at the moment?NV: It’s pretty good. The music I’m talking about is mostly singer songwriter style and there’s a lot of really good people. The Mid-Coast Folk Club is really drawing out people wanting to try their hand at the singer songwriter stuff and there’s some great people performing there.CT: Looking forward, what are your hopes for the scene?NV: It’d be good to see more venues obviously, but it would also be good to see more venues focusing on original music. I feel like there’s a little bit too much focus on cover bands or tribute acts and they all have a place and I get that and I’m not being critical of them. It’s a bit of a chicken or egg thing – if people don’t go out and see the original music then the venues won’t put them on so we need people to support. Bums on seats for local original music!Venues have a big role to play, but it’s hard and they are struggling. Insurance is off the radar. I’ve had this conversation with a few venues recently – everything is expensive. The electricity. Even the oil that they cook with… everything has gone nuts and they’re all scraping through.I totally get that venues do what they need to do, but if they can occasionally take more of a risk and promote it through their channels so that it becomes more of a thing then that will help a lot.CT: In the meantime – the Folk Club – what are the details if people want to go?NV: Sourc’d Wine Bar Aldinga. Last Thursday every month. Kicks off at 6pm. Only $5 to get in. Super fun night – the last few have sold out. Popularity is growing which is awesome.CT: What about local radio?NV: Triple Z and Tribe FM are great supporters of the local music scene. Fantastic stations. Kym-Maree Kujipers runs The Local – which is a great show. Todd Richmond Bennett does a show on Tribe FM as well, called Naked Radio.CT: Last question. Are you still surfing?NV: I sure am – we just need some waves!For your chance to win a copy of one of Nick’s albums visit the Fleurieu app's WIN Button to go into the draw.Nick has also put together a Spotify playlist featuring the artists mentioned in this interview. Have a listen here.To check out Nick’s upcoming gigs or listen to his songwriting podcast visit www.nickvulture.com/Seeking more local sounds? Check out our local radio stations online - link hereNick Vulture. Photo credit: Luke Greaves

SPOTLIGHT STORYWords & Photos: Susie WilliamsThis Kangaroo Island hike starts from the Ravine des Casoars Road, just 7 km south of the Playford Highway near Cape Borda Lighthouse, and promises an enchanting adventure in the northwestern expanse of the island.The trail unfolds along the ravine valley towards the coast, meandering past the creek bank and offering breathtaking vistas from elevated vantage points. It is a journey infused with historical intrigue, as in 1802 French explorer Nicolas Baudin encountered what he mistakenly identified as Cassowaries, but were actually Kangaroo Island Emus, sadly now extinct.Setting out with a group of four, we walked the mostly corrugated track from Cape Borda, greeted by the melodious calls of Currawongs on reaching the car park. Energised by the promise of discovery, we began the Ravine hike on a balmy summer morning.The path, clearly marked and moderately challenging, winds through rocky terrain, allowing us to marvel at the regenerative prowess of nature following the 2020 summer fires. The resilience of the landscape is evident as young gum trees flourish alongside their charred predecessors, a poignant testament to nature's ability to rebound.As we advanced glimpses of the valley below unfolded, which had previously been concealed before the ravages of the fire. Our journey was serenaded by unseen birds chirping, punctuated by the occasional appearance of charming superb blue fairy wrens and a rhythmic chorus of cicadas.Halfway into our hike, we encountered a shallow creek, its smooth rocks forming a picturesque border, where a solitary shag indulged in a leisurely swim. Amidst the eucalyptus forest, the subtle crackling of seed pods bursting open showcased nature's ingenious dispersal mechanisms.Gradually, the dense eucalyptus canopy yielded to coastal vegetation as we approached the shoreline. Sandy paths replaced rocky terrain, leading us to a spacious beach where the creek met the sea. Crossing the stream, we encountered soft, squeaky sand, flanked by towering cliff faces pocked with mysterious caves.The roar of the ocean served as our ultimate reward, accompanied by the spectacle of crashing waves. We spent an hour exploring the beach and its adjacent caves, discovering penguin footprints and marvelling at the raw beauty of the coastline.Our return journey, hastened by the rising temperature, offered a different perspective of the landscape. Pausing only to admire a monitor lizard seeking respite from the heat, we made our way back to the car, eager for the comfort of air conditioning.For future adventurers, we recommend allocating approximately three hours for the hike, allowing ample time to soak in the scenery and unwind at the beach.En route back to the road, a sign directs towards the Scott Cove lookout, offering a stunning panorama of the northern coastline and the Fides Bluff Marine Park, a reminder of the maritime history of Kangaroo Island. This is the final resting place of the ship ‘Fides’, which departed London on its final voyage from London on 11 January 1860 bound for Port Adelaide. In the early hours of May 22 heavy seas pounded the ship and within hours it had broken up. Five crew reached the shore and, after an arduous trek along the cliffs and through dense scrub, the survivors arrived at Cape Borda Lighthouse.Our final stop at Harvey's Return Cemetery paid homage to the pioneers of Cape Borda Lighthouse, set within the rugged landscape since 1858. As we bid farewell to this enchanting corner of Kangaroo Island, we carried with us memories of nature's resilience and the timeless allure of its coastal vistas.Story kindly funded through LINA (Local Independent News Association)

SPOTLIGHT STORYWords Susie Williams. Photos supplied.In the coastal town of Victor Harbor, professional chef Fred Zziwa dedicates himself to boxing beyond his daily culinary pursuits. Originally from Uganda, Fred has encountered numerous challenges on his journey to represent his adopted homeland in the sport.Despite facing obstacles, including navigating through a series of temporary visas since his teenage years, Fred's dedication to boxing has been unwavering. In 2023, his perseverance and athletic accomplishments were recognised, leading to the granting of a permanent visa. With an impressive array of achievements and trophies gained on the Novice boxing circuit, Fred has already earned admiration by demonstrating his exceptional dedication and talent. Transitioning to the professional circuit by the end of 2023, Fred's journey continues to inspire. The Fleurieu community stands united in support, wishing him every success in the professional boxing arena. Go Fred, we're all behind you! Q1. Please share some insight into your childhood. I was born in Uganda and came to Australia when I was 15 years old. I went to Mount Compass Area School and it was the best school I’ve ever attended. My favourite memories from childhood include being able to climb fruit trees and playing soccer with my friends after school and on weekends. Q2. What were your first impressions arriving in Australia to live? I was 15 years old when I came to Australia and my first impression was the taller buildings in the city were pretty much the same as I had seen in the movies. Australia was a totally different environment from a lot of other countries I had been to. When I walked around the streets, they looked like ghost towns as they were so quiet and the houses looked like nobody lived there, but they looked so nice and clean. This was so different compared to my home country where the streets are filled with kids playing. Q3. As a young lad where was your favourite hangout place and what are your favourite memories of those early days? The beach and the Bluff were definitely a couple of my favourite hangout places. One fond memory I have from my early days here is visiting my grandparents’ orchard and eating an abundance of cherries and apples, as well as riding their quad bikes.  Q4. Congratulations, you have made a name for yourself in the boxing world. What got you hooked on boxing? Who's your inspiration? I made a name for myself in boxing by going all in 100 per cent and becoming obsessed with the sport. The beauty of boxing is what got me hooked, the tactics, the complexities of the sport, the discipline and sacrifice required to succeed – you don’t play boxing. I would say Manny Pacquiao is my greatest inspiration in boxing. Q5. Describe a great day in the ring.  When everything me and my coach have been working on comes together in spectacular fashion and we showcase all the hard work that goes on in the gym. It is a feeling of pride that is hard to describe. Q6. Has boxing always been your sport of choice? Soccer was my sport of choice initially, but once I found boxing there was no going back. Q7. What was your most recent competition? How did you go and what's next on the timetable? SA Fight Night was my most recent competition. It was a very successful event in which I got a second-round knockout! What’s next is a fight night in June in Mount Gambier, followed by the Australian Title hopefully later in the year. Q8. What is your 'day job'?  Currently I’m working as a chef part time. Q9. What does Fred's rest day look like? My downtime activities include watching movies, going on walks, and a lot of naps to rest my body from all the training. Q10. What's your future aspirations for your boxing career? My ultimate goal is to become a world champion. Q11. As an adult, what is it that you love about living on the Fleurieu? I love the peaceful environment, the ocean view, the fresh coastal air and the people. 

SPOTLIGHT STORYWords: Anna Kantilaftas. Photos Supplied.As it moves into a new generation, Second Nature Conservancy - previously GWLAP - prepares for growth and encourages everyone to take small steps to preserve the Fleurieu’s natural environment. For more than 25 years, the Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning Association (GWLAP) has worked to restore, protect, and enhance the environment around Lake Alexandrina and beyond.Now, under the new name Second Nature Conservancy, the organisation moves into a new era.General Manager Ross Oke says, “We use our knowledge to plan and implement significant on-ground restoration projects and educational activities. To date, we've planted over 2 million seedlings, restored 10,000 hectares, and involved 4,000 landholders in our core region.”A recent milestone involved completing weed control across 75 hectares within Fleurieu Peninsula parks, enhancing high-value habitat.Ongoing projects include coastal vegetation restoration and a partnership with the Nature Foundation, aiming to preserve the habitat of the nationally threatened Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren at Watchalunga Nature Reserve.Photo: Bullock Hill Conservation ParkFrom its roots as GWLAP in 1998, Second Nature Conservancy has become a torchbearer of environmental advocacy on the Fleurieu.“The name change is certainly tied to a new direction for us, which is to broaden our activities and our revenue base further by attracting investment from a wider range of funding partners and investors,” Ross says.“To some extent though, the change is retrofitting a more appropriate name to our organisation, which had already grown and evolved. There is still so much work needed to ensure our flora and fauna are conserved and can thrive in the long term.”While the heart of its mission beats in the catchments that flow directly into Lake Alexandrina, Second Nature Conservancy prides itself on doing whatever it can to conserve what remains of our native vegetation, and operates with the purpose of "restoring, protecting, and enhancing our local environment."“I love living on the Fleurieu, and that’s the key to caring for our environment – to value it. Recognising that nature underpins tourism, primary production, water quality, and the water cycle is fundamental,” Ross says.Biodiversity is more than just flora and fauna; it also considers nutrient cycling, filtering water, pollination of crops, and more. Through its workshops and events, Second Nature encourages people to learn more and recognise that everyone can get involved in caring for the environment. As the organisation opens this new chapter with a new brand, it reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship and its dedication to on-ground restoration projects and educational activities by making a tangible impact. Ross’s 5 tips to contribute to environmental stability and sustainability in your own backyard: 1. Cultivate appreciation: Foster a sense of appreciation and value for the natural environment, which enriches individual lives, especially children. 2. Education: Learn more about local flora and fauna, attending events, workshops, or nature walks to understand the significance of conservation efforts. 3. Get involved: Engage in practical activities with local conservation groups, volunteering time or advocating for the preservation of natural areas. 4. Bring Nature home: Choose plants that attract wildlife, avoiding invasive species, and ideally incorporating local native plants into your surroundings. 5. Support conservation efforts: Contribute time, advocacy, or donations to organisations like Second Nature Conservancy Inc. Every effort counts in preserving South Australia's natural heritage. Learn moreKyeema Conservation Park. Photo supplied.

SPOTLIGHT STORYWords: Anna Kantilaftas. Photos: Mike Annese PhotographyIn the quiet shadows of history, the resurrection of a CAC Boomerang emerges as a tale of restoration, family legacy, and a nation's unwavering commitment to preserving its aviation heritage. Jim Whalley AO is a former Air Force fighter pilot turned entrepreneur, whose journey took an unexpected turn when he embarked on a mission to revive a CAC Boomerang fighter plane. Unlike other aircraft in his restoration collection, Jim's bond with the Boomerang has a familial connection. His father, a World War II fighter pilot, links the two generations through a twist of fate. “I bought a Boomerang project that was around 70 per cent complete. As I was talking to Matt Denning (the restorer), about my dad’s aircraft and its serial number, he told me he knew where a lot of that wreckage was and offered to swap the parts of the new project with my dad’s aircraft,” Jim says. “So the CAC Boomerang I have is only about 20 or 30 percent of the original aircraft, but it’s nice to have that family connection.” The Boomerang's tale begins amidst the chaos of World War II, where it emerged as Australia's quick answer to the challenges of aerial combat. Designed and built in Australia between 1942 and 1945, it represented hope—and a necessity—in a time of uncertainty. “Australia's only designed and built fighter aircraft that ever saw combat was the CAC Boomerang. It flew extensively against the Japanese and through New Guinea in World War II. But it wasn’t the greatest fighter in the world,” Jim says. “Australia ended up receiving Kittyhawks [from the US], so the Boomerang was used for, and very good as an Army Cooperation aircraft, which we now refer to as a Close Air Support aircraft. “It would support troops on the ground and was heavily armed with cannons and machine guns. It was very tough, but it’s not necessarily a nice plane to fly; it tried to kill my father three times and it’s tried to kill me three times as well.” For Jim, the Boomerang offered opportunity to breathe new life into a relic with a connection to his personal history. With a team of skilled engineers, he worked to restore the plane and give it a second life. “I was born in 1966 when dad was 46,” Jim says. “Unfortunately, he died of cancer when I was nine years old, but since I could speak, all I wanted to do was be an Air Force pilot, which is largely due to dad’s influence. My godfather, who flew with my dad, also took on that fatherly role, so I always had that connection with the military and Air Force.” Jim says he pieced together the story of what happened to the CAC Boomerang his dad flew during the war. As his father was taking off on patrol of Merauke in New Guinea, he had some serious engine problems and turned around and came back to land the plane. When the commanding officer questioned the return, he jumped in the plane to check what was going on and realised it wasn’t operating properly. A flight sergeant was ordered to fly the plane to the west coast of Cape York Peninsula where they had a repair station, but the engine failed halfway and the plane was landed on a beach. There were no fatalities from the crash landing. “The wreckage sat there for a while,” Jim says, “Until they finally went and recovered most of it and used it for spare parts. Thankfully, there was enough left to put my plane together.” The restoration process was no easy feat, requiring a delicate balance of technical expertise and historical reverence over almost a decade. “It took an unspecified amount of money and about seven years. It was a lot of work on the part of the engineer. I’m the test pilot - I’m good at breaking things, but not at putting them back together,” Jim says. He says it was more than just his family ties that drew him to the CAC Boomerang, which he believes is a representation of Australia‘s achievements in innovation. “It’s sad that Australia seems to have lost its technological edge. We once did some pretty cool things in engineering and technology.” “The Boomerang sort of represents what Australia used to be able to do, what it was capable of in terms of technology when it set its mind to it. And I think whilst it wasn't the greatest fighter in the world, it was a pretty impressive effort to get it built in five months. And without that sort of know-how we could have been in deep trouble back in the 1940s.” The restored Boomerang, now proudly residing on Jim’s Goolwa property, may not have been the best in battle, but today, it carries with it the echoes of a time when Australia's aviation prowess reached for the sky.In the narrative of vintage aircraft, Jim's CAC Boomerang is another living chapter that serves as a reminder of a nation's ability to soar above its challenges.Story kindly funded through LINA (Local Independent News Association)