Significant upgrades have been proposed for Port Noarlunga Driving Range and City of Onkaparinga is consulting the community on the changes.GreenSpace Management has been selected as the preferred party through the council’s expression of interest process to co-invest in and deliver a proposed transformation of the facility.The proposal outlines a long-term partnership that would see GreenSpace manage the site from 1 January 2026 for up to 20 years.Under the Local Government Act 1999 the council is legally required to seek community feedback on two key aspects of the proposal: the proposed lease of community land for more than five years and the proposed amendment to the Community Land Management Plan (CLMP) for this site.Subject to the outcomes of this engagement, Council will consider whether to proceed with the lease and CLMP amendment in late 2025. If endorsed, GreenSpace Management would then lodge a development application (DA) for the site.The DA process will include a separate public notification period, giving the community another opportunity to provide feedback – particularly on matters such as design, noise, lighting and opening hours.Feedback can be provided via the council YourSay page until Monday 10 November. City of Onkaparinga CEO Phu Nguyen says the proposal represents an exciting opportunity to deliver high quality, inclusive recreation that supports community wellbeing and the local economy.“This project aligns strongly with our vision for sustainable, community-focused development,” he says.“The proposal showcases how recreation and community spaces can evolve while respecting the natural coastal setting.”The proposal includes world-class driving range technology powered by Trackman, offering 24 undercover bays and six retained green grass range bays.It also features an URBN SHANX mini golf course – the second in Australia – and two padel courts with master planning for two additional courts.GreenSpace Managing Director Peter Vlahandreas says the company’s collaborative approach has delivered award-winning public golf and recreation transformations across Australia.“Our focus is on creating accessible, modern spaces that bring people together,” he says.“The proposed range at Port Noarlunga reflects a careful balance between site sensitivity, design excellence and community value.”Damien de Bohun, General Manager – Clubs, Facilities and Places to Play, Golf Australia says golf is thriving in Australia, with more than 4 million people now enjoying the game in one of its many formats.“We’re seeing record participation and membership growth, particularly among younger generations, driven by new ways to experience the game, from driving ranges and simulators to mini golf and entertainment venues that welcome everyone,” he says.“The Port Noarlunga Driving Range is a fantastic example of that evolution, combining technology and social play to create a vibrant community hub where people can connect, be active and have fun.”

It is shockingly simple to help save a life - this is the key message of Restart a Heart Day, celebrated last week as a reminder of the importance of early intervention in cardiac arrest.Over 32,000 people a year suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Australia, almost 4,000 of those occur in South Australia. Sadly, only 1 in 10 of them survive.According to The Heart Foundation, when an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) is used in conjunction with CPR in the first 3 to 5 minutes of a cardiac arrest, the chance of surviving jumps to around 70 percent.Finniss MP David Basham has recently had an AED installed in his electorate office in Victor Harbor.He says he is pleased to be part of South Australia’s efforts to lead the nation in the saturation of AEDs in public places, with particular focus in regional areas.“Saving a life can be made easier, even without a great deal of training because AEDs are designed so that a person just needs to follow the verbal prompts to give someone in cardiac arrest a better chance of survival,” he says.“We have people visiting the office every day seeking information and assistance, some of them are coming for help because of health concerns. We also provide a regular meeting place for community groups and many of these people are seniors.“I hope the AED is never needed, but to have it close at hand just adds peace of mind for anyone inside or near the office.”Jennie Politis is a regularly user of the meeting room at the Finniss electorate office with the Victor Harbor VIEW Club.“We can get a bit passionate about things in our meetings, so it is reassuring to know there is the ability to intervene immediately with the prospect of saving lives in our community.” New AED laws were introduced in South Australia this year making access to the devices mandatory in certain buildings, facilities and vehicles, with the aim to improve survival rates from sudden cardiac arrest by increasing their public access.  The AED at the Finniss Electorate Office is located at 71 Victoria Street Victor Harbor and is available during office hours from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

A man is in hospital after an assault at Seaford.About 2.20am today (Monday 20 October), police and ambulance crews were called to a business on The Parade after reports that a man had attempted to force his way into the workshop.A fight occurred between the suspect and a 45-year-old man who was at the property.The suspect, a 46-year-old Aldinga Beach man was taken to hospital in a serious condition.The other man was not injured.Police believe that both men are known to each other.Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au270081

All local councils have now opened nominations for the 2026 Citizenship Awards, which close on Sunday 16 November.Mayor Michael Pengilly is encouraging Kangaroo Island residents to take part in two key community programs now open, the Citizen of the Year Awards and Council’s 2025–26 Community Grants Scheme.“These programs reflect the heart of who we are as a community,” Michael Pengilly says. “They give us the opportunity to celebrate the people and projects that make Kangaroo Island stronger, more connected and more vibrant.”The Citizen of the Year Awards are presented by the Australia Day Council of South Australia and administered by councils, honour those who make a difference every day, the volunteers, organisers and quiet achievers who give their time and energy to benefit others.The main award categories are:Citizen of the Year Community Event of the YearCommunity Project of the Year Award recipients will be announced at council Australia Day 2026 celebrations and may go on to be recognised at the state awards, presented by the Governor of South Australia.Other awards categories include Young Citizen of the Year and Active Citizenship. Full details of the awards and a nomination form can be found on the Citizen of the Year Awards website. Alexandrina Council presents two awards in each of the five categories, with Australia Day events held in Strathalbyn and Goolwa. The Kangaroo Island 2025–26 Community Grants Scheme is designed to help community groups and individuals bring ideas to life that deliver social, environmental or cultural benefits to the Island.The total funding pool of $22,500 provides grants of up to $4,000 per project, supporting local initiatives that enhance community wellbeing, inclusion and connection. Applications close at 5pm on Friday 31 October. For details, guidelines and online applications, visit the council website “Whether it’s recognising an inspiring individual or helping a local project take shape, these programs showcase the incredible spirit of Kangaroo Island,” Mayor Michael Pengilly says. “I encourage everyone to get involved, nominate someone, apply for a grant and help celebrate what makes our Island great.”

Words: Susie WilliamsThanks to Coast Lines magazineTucked behind the CFS and SES complex on Elliot Street, at the western edge of Port Elliot, a quiet transformation has been blooming. What was once a vacant patch of land is now a thriving, green hub of community, learning, and connection—the Port Elliot Community Garden.Officially established in 2022, this garden is more than raised beds and orchard trees. It’s a living symbol of what can happen when committed locals turn an idea into action. It began back in February 2020, when a small group, driven by curiosity and community spirit, gathered in the dog park on a cold, wet and windy day. “We put a call out on Facebook for a public meeting,” recalls Ian Nuberg, current treasurer. “Despite the weather, people turned up and said, ‘Yes, I’m interested.’”From that point on, things began to grow—literally and figuratively.Planting the seedAn early champion of the garden, Ian Nuberg is a retired Associate Professor of the School of Agriculture, Food and Wine at Waite Campus, University of Adelaide. Alongside Elizabeth Ganguly, as first coordinator/chair, Gus Telfer, as secretary and a determined core team, Ian helped guide the project through the maze of site options, council negotiations, and funding applications.“We looked at six potential sites around Port Elliot,” he explains. “Alexandrina Council wouldn’t do it for us, but they were open to us leasing land. So we did community consultation, formed a monthly committee and started applying for grants.”Two years of persistent planning and paperwork paid off. By 2022, the group secured a lease for Reserve 60 on Elliot Street. With nearly $40,000 in grants and a lot of elbow grease, they fenced the property, laid paths, installed raised garden beds and planted over 30 orchard trees. Local designer Elizabeth Ganguly created the garden layout and was instrumental in liaising with council.Today, the garden boasts 122 square metres of productive garden beds, and 370 square metres under fruit trees, paved access throughout and a growing community of members and supporters.Community at the coreTrue to its name, the Port Elliot Community Garden welcomes people from all walks of life. Some come for the love of gardening, others for companionship, and many for the simple joy of being outdoors.“There’s no requirement to work,” Ian explains. “People contribute at different levels. Some are here every week, others pop in when they can. And that’s okay.”The garden is open to the public every Wednesday from 9am to 12noon and on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. Members, who pay an annual fee of $40, can access the garden 24/7 via a gate code. Harvested produce is shared among those who help, on an honesty system.Beyond vegetables, the garden is growing connections—with schools, support organisations, and the wider community. Children from the local kindy visit regularly, planting in their dedicated garden bed with the help of volunteers. “They come down hand in hand in their little fluoro vests,” Ian says. “It’s a joy to see.”The garden also hosts visits from the Hills District Disability Support group, who travel from Mount Barker to engage with nature in a safe, inclusive environment.A place for possibilitiesWhile the garden is flourishing, Di , as coordinator/chair, and Ian with the whole team see even greater potential. “We’d love to see more community use,” Ian says. “If someone wanted to run a mosaic workshop, for example, we’d welcome that. There’s space, and it would be great to add some art around the garden.”The team has dreams for more: shade structures, a small garden shed and maybe even community events. But their focus remains on steady, inclusive growth.And they’re always looking for more people to join in.Come Along, Get InvolvedTo celebrate South Australia’s Community Gardens Day, the Port Elliot Community Garden will host an Open Day on Saturday 2 November. Check the details on Facebook nearer the time. It’s the perfect chance to explore the garden, chat with members and see if you’d like to get involved.“No experience necessary,” Di laughs. “Just curiosity and a bit of heart.”Membership forms, garden details, and contact information are available on the Port Elliot Town and Foreshore Improvement Association website at www.portelliot.org.au. to Di as Membership Secretary on [email protected] or phone Ian on 0421 144 671.So whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or someone simply looking to connect with community, the Port Elliot Community Garden is here—growing food, friendships and a better future for all.

Alexandrina Council is planning to build a BMX track at the Clayton Bay foreshore reserve and calling for the community to have input into the design.The proposed site is next to the playground and public toilets.The council says the term BMX track can mean different things to different people, so it wants to know what type of facility would be preferred.It says any new track needs to allow for entry-level and beginner riders and to progress to intermediate and potentially advanced riders.There are three options up for discussion: a pump track; a skills park; or dirt jumps.Details and examples of the three options can be viewed on the Alexandrina MySay website.Community consultation closes at 5pm on Friday 7 November. Construction of the new track is expected to happen in early to mid 2026.

Drivers are reminded to stay alert and drive responsibly on Sunday, October 19, with mobile speed cameras scheduled to operate throughout South Australia.As weekend traffic increases — especially across popular travel routes and regional townships — police will be actively monitoring a range of locations to promote safe driving and reduce speeding-related incidents. Whether you're heading out for a Sunday drive, returning from a getaway, or simply passing through, it's important to follow speed limits and remain vigilant behind the wheel.A full list of mobile speed camera locations for Sunday is included below. Let’s all do our part to make the roads safer for everyone.BAINS RD, WOODCROFTCOMMERCIAL RD, SEAFORDDALKEITH RD, SEAFORD RISEDEQUETTEVILLE TCE, KENT TOWNFITZROY TCE, NORTH ADELAIDEGALLOWAY RD, O'SULLIVAN BEACHGLEN OSMOND RD, GLEN OSMONDGLYNBURN RD, BURNSIDEGLYNVILLE DR, HACKHAM WESTGREENHILL RD, BURNSIDELEFEVRE TCE, NORTH ADELAIDEMAGILL RD, MAGILLMAIN SOUTH RD, OLD NOARLUNGAMELBOURNE ST, NORTH ADELAIDEMOUNT BARKER RD, LEAWOOD GARDENSODESSA DR, WOODCROFTOSMOND TCE, NORWOODSEAFORD RD, SEAFORDSHEREBROOKE BVD, WOODCROFTSHERRIFFS RD, REYNELLASIR JAMES HARDY WAY, WOODCROFTWAKEFIELD RD, ADELAIDEWALKERVILLE TCE, GILBERTONWATTLE ST, FULLARTONWITTON RD, PORT NOARLUNGA

Meet Odin — a devoted and steadfast dog featured as RSPCA South Australia’s Pet of the Week. Odin is ready to find the loving home he’s been waiting for and bring years of companionship, loyalty, and joy to his new family.Some things we know about Odin:He enjoys being close to people and thrives on affection.Odin has the heart of a protector and would make a devoted friend and guardian.He looks forward to walks, cozy evenings in, and spending quality time with those who love him.Odin would likely shine best in a calm, patient home that will give him time to settle in and trust.If you’ve been searching for a loyal and loving companion, Odin might just be the dog for you. 🔗 Learn more: Odin – RSPCA South Australia

Investigator College students are partnering with a sniffer dog to find and protect hidden turtle nests, as part of a pioneering school-based conservation project.English springer spaniel Nessie will sniff her way around the College’s 10-hectare riverfront site at Currency Creek during October, showing students where to install fox deterrents, nest guards and surveillance cameras just before nesting season.Students will then assess the effectiveness of these measures, providing useful insights to landholders and conservationists who are joining the effort to save three ageing turtle populations: the Eastern long- necked turtle, Murray short-necked turtle, and the Broad-shelled turtle.Early trials using artificial nests with chicken eggs have already shown promising results.“Participating Year 11 and 12 students are thrilled to be taking part in ecologically significant conservation research as part of their Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management,” says Investigator College Teacher and Currency Creek Campus Manager Nat Gilbert.“I am not aware of anywhere else where students can work alongside conservationists and industry experts as part of a funded project with this sort of positive biodiversity impact.“We are fortunate to have such an amazing property, which makes this VET course and projects like this possible.To date, students have also installed basking platforms, while Conservation and Detection Dogs SA has been busy training up Nessie, whose acute sense of smell will finally level the playing field with foxes.The project is funded by Landscape Hills and Fleurieu and the College has thanked other participants, including Ngarrindjeri Thukabi Monitoring Program, the 1 Million Turtles Project, Nature Glenelg Trust, Aquasave, Adelaide University, Yarluwar-Ruwe Project, Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal Corporation, Strathalbyn Field Naturalists and Barron Environmental.Nessy will be helping students find turtle nests and fox dens.

Willunga will host the annual Fleurieu Folk Festival, with a 12-hour musical extravaganza, next Friday 25 October.The festival has been reduced to a one-day event this year due to a pause in grant funding, but will still feature some of the state’s finest and most talented musicians.It covers a broad range of genres, focusing on traditional and contemporary folk and Celtic but also including Americana, bluegrass and more.There will be workshops, dancers, jam sessions and blackboard concerts, musical theatre, poetry, spoken word and children’s entertainment, local food and market stalls.Willunga oval is not available for camping this year, due to construction works.Full program details and ticket option can be found on the website.

It’s time to dig out the waders – the Waterbug Bioblitz spring round is fast approaching for Eastern Hills and Alexandrina Plains residents. A popular citizen-science opportunity, the Waterbug Bioblitz includes two separate events in both the Angas-Finniss and Bremer catchments and will see pools at over 25 sites tested for water quality and macroinvertebrate (waterbug) activity.Held in November, the events encourage the community to get involved in caring for their patch, joined by volunteer groups and Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu aquatic ecologists.Senior Stewardship Officer Dana Miles says the family-friendly events are open to all interested in getting their hands dirty in the name of conservation.“We’re really pleased to be working with Second Nature Conservancy once again to host these two events, on Peramangk and Ngarrindjeri Country,” she says.“The help of the volunteers makes the events efficient and exciting. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the health of the waterways and catchment and help inform decision making around water planning. Plus, you never know what we might find!”In recent years, the Waterbug Bioblitz has yielded some great insights into the two catchments. Several rare species have been located, which informs ecologists of where theirwork can make an impact.“We generally meet up at the base in the morning, have a quick training, then split up in groups to monitor different sites, before meeting back at the lab to get a close-up look at what we have found and take records,” Dana Miles says. “It’s a great learning experience and an opportunity to be a real scientist for the day. We supply all the equipment and lunch; all we need are keen volunteers with a love for nature.”Registrations are essential.Bremer Waterbug Bioblitz – Friday 7 November (Wistow).  Angas Finniss Waterbug Bioblitz - Friday 14 November (Strathalbyn).The Waterbug Bioblitz program is delivered in South Australia by the Hills and Fleurieu, Northern and Yorke and Murraylands and Riverland landscape boards, and partners.The Angas-Finniss and Bremer Waterbug Bioblitz events are delivered by Second Nature Conservancy, with support from Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu and the Department for Environment and Water’s Flows for the Future program. These events are funded by Landscape Levy and the state government’s Citizen Science Grants program.

Motorists are advised to drive with care tomorrow, Friday, October 17, as mobile speed detection units will be operating across South Australia — including regional areas, metropolitan roads, and key commuter routes.As part of SAPOL’s ongoing commitment to road safety, these mobile cameras are strategically placed to encourage speed compliance and reduce the risk of road incidents. Whether you're travelling through the Fleurieu, heading into the city, or exploring regional South Australia, take a moment to check your speed and stay alert behind the wheel.The full list of speed camera locations scheduled for Friday is provided below. Let’s all play our part in keeping our roads safe.ALDINGA BEACH RD, ALDINGA BEACHCOMMERCIAL RD, SEAFORDCOMMERCIAL RD, SEAFORD RISECROSS RD, MYRTLE BANKDEQUETTEVILLE TCE, KENT TOWNDEVEREUX RD, HAZELWOOD PARKDUTHY ST, UNLEYELIZABETH RD, MORPHETT VALEELIZABETH RD, CHRISTIE DOWNSESPLANADE, ALDINGA BEACHFULLARTON RD, ADELAIDEGRAND BVD, SEAFORDGRAND BVD, SEAFORD RISEGRANT AVE, ROSE PARKGREENHILL RD, BURNSIDEGRIFFITHS DR, MOANAHIGH ST, WILLUNGAMAGILL RD, MAGILLMAIN RD, WILLUNGAOLD COACH RD, MASLIN BEACHSEAVIEW RD, MCLAREN VALESHAKESPEARE AVE, MAGILLTHE PARADE, KENSINGTON GARDENSTUSMORE AVE, LEABROOKWATTLE ST, FULLARTON

Kangaroo Island beachgoers can find out all about Hooded Plovers at a free workshop in Penneshaw on Sunday 26 October.Discover how they raise their chicks, the threats they face and how to get involved in helping to protect them.There is only a 2.5% chance  that a Hooded Plover egg will survive to adulthood with human help, according to Birdlife Australia.The workshop will be held in the CWA building from 12pm to 3.30pm and includes lunch and a visit to Penneshaw Main Beach to observe the local Plovers in their habitat.All are welcome; RSVP by Friday 17 October to Birdlife Australia.

Police have received several reports of E-Bikes being stolen in and around the Goolwa and Victor Harbor areas in recent weeks.These high-value items are increasingly being targeted by opportunistic thieves, often when left unsecured or visible in public spaces. Investigations are ongoing, and police are urging anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or has information about these thefts to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online. To help prevent further incidents, police are reminding all E-Bike owners to take extra precautions. E-Bikes should be stored out of sight and securely locked when not in use, even when kept at home. Using high-quality locks and securing bikes to immovable objects can significantly reduce the risk of theft. Owners are also encouraged to record serial numbers and consider GPS tracking options.For more information on how to reduce the incidence or impact of crime and contribute to a safer community, visit SAPOL - Crime prevention and security.

A man has lost his licence after being caught drink driving last night.Just after 8.30pm on Wednesday 15 October, police observed a Kia sedan travelling on Stump Road and saw that the car fail to give way to another car when turning onto Victor Harbor Road.The driver a 34-year-old man from Moana was submitted to a breath test and allegedly produced a blood alcohol reading of 0.166 – more than three times the legal limit.The driver was reported for drink driving, issued a 12-month instant loss of licence notice and his car was impounded for 28-days.He will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.

After a drip feed of announcements this week, the state and federal governments have released the $102.5 million Algal Bloom Summer Plan, a comprehensive suite of measures to protect coastal communities.The jointly funded plan follows consultation with experts, industry and the broader community and has three core objectives:Ensuring South Australians can enjoy their summer.Backing coastal businesses and communities.Advancing research and protecting the environment.Along with business and tourism supports, additional beach patrols and information-sharing, the Plan includes an investment of more than $37 million in science and the environment.There will be a $20.6 million investment in the natural environment, with four key targets:Large-scale native oyster reef restorationConstructing new limestone native oyster reefs along the coast. When placed in gulfs at the right time, these reefs create an environment where native oysters can grow into a natural reef.Community shellfish reef restorationCreating additional community recycled oyster reefs – bringing the total number to 25 projects around the state. These reefs use recycled oyster shells, placed in strategic locations, to create a natural habitat for new oysters and marine life.Seagrass and blue carbon restorationFunding to undertake seagrass restoration research in the Gulf St Vincent. Seagrass can help filter excess nutrients from the water, providing a food source for bacteria that inhibit algal growth, and improving overall water quality.Threatened and vulnerable marine species breeding A targeted breeding, conservation and fish stocking program for vulnerable and threatened species impacted by the algal bloom, alongside a biodiversity education program.There will also be a further $17.3 million for science, research and monitoring, including:Water monitoring and forecastingA further investment in South Australia’s capacity for real-time oceanographic water quality monitoring and forecasting through a collaboration with the CSIRO, including the acquisition of state-of-the-art monitoring bouys. The buoys will be moored at key locations and integrated with ocean modelling and AI forecasting to support early detection.Offshore water analysisFunding towards undertaking offshore water analysis in the deep waters of Gulf St Vincent, Spencer Gulf, and the southern Fleurieu Peninsula. The program will build on understanding of the link between offshore and onshore bloom distribution and movement.Establish an Office for Algal Bloom ResearchA new $3.2 million South Australian-based office will serve as a central hub for national integration of algal bloom science and undertake vital long-term research into the formation, spread and impact of algal bloom events.AI CytobotsA $1 million trial of state-of-the-art AI-powered submersible cytobots to build on understanding of phytoplankton communities and help with the development of live detection and early warning systems. The Imaging FlowCytobot collects data and generates high-resolution images of suspended particles which can be transmitted back to shore in real-time.Algal bloom mitigationInvestigating and trialling various algal bloom mitigation techniques for controlled waterways, such as rivers, estuaries and lakes, including clay and gyroid absorbent sponge technology.This is in addition to measures already announced, including dining and travel vouchers, an advertising campaign, the beachsafe app, extra beach patrols and clean-up squads and a new round of industry support grants. 

Fleurieu Regional Waste Authority (FRWA) has issued a plea to the public to dispose of batteries responsibly following a fire that has closed Its Goolwa waste and recycling depot.Investigation of the fire, which broke out on the afternoon of Saturday 11 October, has revealed the cause was a battery.Approximately 50 CFS firefighters, with support from MFS crews, worked to contain the fire, using heavy machinery to spread out waste piles so crews in breathing apparatus could extinguish the fire. The shed was partially destroyed, with damage estimated in excess of $500,000.The depot has been closed since to enable the investigation and clean-up; it will remain closed until at least Friday 17 October, when FRWA hopes it will again be operational.All kerbside bin collections have continued on the days scheduled, but some have been delayed until later in the day drivers have to travel greater distances to unload.Yankalilla Depot is open today Wednesday 15 October and tomorrow Thursday 16 October, while the Strathalbyn Depot will also be open Thursday 16 October.FRWA has issued a reminder that no batteries can be disposed of in any type of bin.It is free to safely dispose of batteries at all FRWA Depots as well as over 5000 locations Australia-wide, including supermarkets. Visit the bcycle website for locations.FRWA covers the Alexandrina, Kangaroo Island, Victor Harbor and Yankalilla council areas. For updates on the fire recovery and waste collection across the region visit the website.

Dining vouchers have been added to the Coast is Calling giveaways with 300,000 South Australians to receive up to $50 cashback off a meal.The new program designed to support coastal hospitality businesses impacted by the algal bloom this summer.The $15 million Coast is Calling - Dining Cashback will cover the same coastal areas across South Australia as the travel voucher program and will be funded by the state and federal governments as part of the Algal Bloom Summer Plan.A public ballot will open on Monday 3 November, to be drawn on Monday 10 November, with 60,000 South Australians winning a dining cashback to be used up to Sunday 7 December.A further four draws of 60,000 cashback opportunities will be held for dining periods spanning December, January, February and March – with a ballot draw at the start of each month for use in that month.South Australians can sign up for the draw throughout the program, with unsuccessful ballot winners to be automatically entered into subsequent draws unless they opt out.Ballot winners will receive a unique code. To claim the cashback, diners will be required to upload a copy of their tax invoice from a participating business to a website along with the code to receive 50% of the cost of their meal paid back, up to a maximum of $50.Participating businesses must be hospitality businesses in eligible coastal postcodes serving food, including restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs, as well as takeaway venues such as fish and chip shops.The dining vouchers are in addition to the Coast is Calling Travel Vouchers for accommodation and experiences, which open 1 December.For entry details and full terms and conditions, go to the website.

Cittaslow Goolwa has announced the official launch of a new community garden in central Goolwa, following the signing of a long-term lease by Education Minister Blair Boyer. This milestone marks a new chapter in Cittaslow Goolwa’s nearly two-decade long commitment to advancing local quality of life, sustainability, education, and community collaboration.Cittaslow, or ‘slow town’, is a whole-of-community approach to promoting quality of life and sustainability in towns and cities based on a partnership between local government and communities. In March 2007, Goolwa was accredited by Cittaslow International as the first Cittaslow town in Australia.The new garden will be situated directly behind the Goolwa Children’s Centre (GCC), on vacant land facing Chrystal Street. “This project symbolises our commitment to sustainable living, learning, and building community,” says Michael Keen, President of Cittaslow Goolwa Inc. “We appreciate the efforts of the property team from the Department of Education, Training and Skills, and the Education Minister’s support.”The new garden will feature raised beds and wide access paths to allow for all mobility levels, child-friendly spaces and improved facilities for plant propagation and communal events. This new community venture will complement the strong relationship developed over more than seven years between the GCC and volunteers from the existing Cittaslow community garden. With financial support from the Goolwa Community Bank – Bendigo Bank Goolwa & District, volunteer gardeners have supplied fresh fruit and vegetables from their existing community garden to the children, staff and families at the GCC.“Having Cittaslow locating right next to the Children’s Centre will be a fantastic opportunity to build that partnership, not only receiving the fresh food but also playing an active part in learning plant growing and cultivating the fresh produce,” says Donna McAuley, Director of GCC.“There are also plans to run family cooking lessons/groups using the fresh produce,” “Food security is an ongoing and complex issue in our community and affects nearly all of our families in some way. “The food support program we have running with Cittaslow is an important part of our Children’s Centre. Even just to have a community garden that is accessible to parentsand children to gather their thoughts in is something we are looking forward to.” Donna says.Michael Keen says while the existing community garden has been greatly valued and well-used over the years, the site faces limitations including its location on the outskirts of Goolwa, inadequate parking and access to power. The new site in the heart of Goolwa will provide improved infrastructure, greater accessibility, and enhanced opportunities for local engagement and growth. Located near Goolwa Public School and Goolwa Secondary College, it will facilitate interactions with local students and parents of all ages.Nathan Hunter, Principal of Goolwa Primary School, says he is delighted about the new garden. “This exciting development not only provides a hands-on opportunity for children and families to connect with nature and explore the origins and cycles of food, but also deepens community engagement across generations,” he says. “The gardens represent a meaningful extension of the growing education precinct here in Goolwa, reinforcing the heart of learning within our town. “By cultivating these shared spaces, we are nurturing relationships, strengthening community ties, and creating lasting educational experiences for all.”Cittaslow welcomes the involvement of community members; anyone interested in learning more can contact Michael Keen via email. Find out more about Cittaslow Goolwa and the wider Cittaslow movement on the website.