Alexandrina Council has reported the environmental vandalism of four old remnant Melaleuca trees by the river along Liverpool Road, in Goolwa. It says someone has deliberately poisoned the native trees, using bore holes in the trunks.“These trees provide shelter and amenity for the local community and, being remnant native vegetation, are an important part of the biodiversity of Goolwa Channel.”The damage was brought to the attention of the council last week and it says its Environment and Compliance Teams are continuing to investigate this vandalism of protected native council assets.“The damaging activities were not conducted or authorised by Council or any other legitimate agency.“Vandalism of public assets, including trees, is an offence under the Local Government Act, and offenders can be prosecuted.”The council is calling on the community to help find out who has perpetrated the environmental vandalism, asking anyone with information to make contact by calling 8555 7000 or via email.

Nominations for the South Australian election on Saturday 21 March have closed and a record number of candidates will contest the House of Assembly, or lower house.For voters unable to attend a polling place on election day, early voting is available from Saturday 14 March.The electorate of Finniss is fully within the Fleurieu Peninsula, stretching from Waitpinga to Mundoo Island and including Victor Harbor, Mount Compass and Goolwa.Mawson electorate stretches from Kangaroo Island to McLaren Vale and includes Cape Jervis, Yankalilla, Myponga and Willunga.Three other electorates cover parts of the Fleurieu: Hammond includes Langhorne Creek and Strathalbyn; Heysen includes Willunga Hill, Kuitpo and Ashbourne;  Kaurna includes Old Noarlunga, Moana and Port Noarlunga. All candidates are listed as they will appear on the ballot paper, as published by the South Australian Electoral Commission. Voters must number each box, in order of preference, to record a valid ballot paper.There are nine candidates for Finniss, where the sitting MP is Liberal David Basham.Finniss candidatesBartholomew Astill-Pearce – The GreensLou Nicholson – IndependentBronwyn Lewis – IndependentDavid Abram  - Australian Family PartyMichael Scott – Sarah Game Fair Go for All AustraliansDavid Basham – Liberal PartyPhoebe Redington – Australian Labor PartyTanya Hussey – Animal Justice PartyGreg Powell – Pauline Hanson’s One NationThe early voting centre for Finniss is at Victor Harbor Recreation Centre.There are seven candidates for Mawson, where sitting Labor MP Leon Bignell is retiring.Mawson candidatesLesley Grey – Legalise Cannabis South Australia PartyMike Holden – Liberal PartyTyler Green - Pauline Hanson’s One NationKelly Schumacher – Stephen Pallaras Real Change SAJenni Mitton – Australian Labor PartyPeter Ieraci - Australian Family PartyLawrence Johnson – The GreensThere are two early voting centres for Mawson: Kingscote Town Hall on Kangaroo Island and McLaren Vale Institute Hall.There are 12 candidates for Hammond, where the sitting MP is Liberal Adrian Pederick.Hammond candidatesJames Murphy - Legalise Cannabis South Australia PartyRobert Roylance - Pauline Hanson’s One NationRuby Eckermann – Animal Justice PartyCarmelo Graziano – United Voice AustraliaRobert North – Family FirstAdrian Pederick – Liberal PartyLucas Hope – IndependentNicole Palachicky – The GreensSimone Bailey - Australian Labor PartyTristan Iveson - Sarah Game Fair Go for All AustraliansBruce Hicks - Australian Family PartyAirlie Keen – IndependentThe Hammond early voting centre is at The Square Community Centre in Murray Bridge.There are nine candidates for Heysen, where the sitting MP is Liberal Josh Teague.Heysen candidatesAndrew Granger – IndependentTom Kovac - Pauline Hanson’s One NationTonya Scott - Sarah Game Fair Go for All AustraliansGenevieve Dawson-Scott – The GreensMarisa Bell - Australian Labor PartyChris Baker – Family FirstJosh Teague - Liberal PartyCraig Wilson - Australian Family PartyGregory Davis - Animal Justice PartyThe Heysen early voting centre is at Aldgate Village Well.There are eight candidates for Kaurna, where the sitting MP is Labor’s Chris Picton.Kaurna candidatesAmanda Brohier – Family FirstSean Weatherly – The GreensZoe Jones - Pauline Hanson’s One NationPatrick Amadio - Australian Family PartyGary Haddrell - Legalise Cannabis South Australia PartyShane Carter – Liberal PartyChris Picton - Australian Labor PartyAnastasios Manolakis - Stephen Pallaras Real Change SAThe early voting centre for Kaurna is at the Noarlunga Uniting Church in Christies Beach.There are 48 candidates for the 11 seats available in the Legislative Council, or Upper House. Voters can choose to vote above the line where at least one box must be numbered, or below the line, where at least 12 boxes must be numbered in order of preference.For more information on the South Australian state election, voting or to apply for a postal vote, visit the ECSA website.

Regional Development Australia (RDA) will catch up with local farmers and agribusinesses at the annual barbecue hosted by the City of Victor Harbor next week.RDA Adelaide Hills Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Economic Development Officer David Ridley will attend the Farmer’s Catch Up event on Wednesday 11 March at the Hindmarsh Valley Hall.He will discuss how RDA can best support the ag sector and share updates on key regional issues including water security, pest plant and animal control.There will also be information on programs and services available to farming communities, with presentations from industry and government representatives including Byron Manning from PIRSA and David Stanton from Rural Business Support. This free event provides an opportunity to connect with other primary producers in the region and learn what assistance is available.It will run from 11.30am to 1.30pm and tomorrow, Friday 6 March is the deadline to RSVP via email or calling 8551 0500.

A man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to evade police during a patrol at Christie Downs early this morning.At about 12.30am on Thursday, March 5, patrol officers conducting mobile patrols observed a man riding a modified e-bike without a rear light while travelling north on Morton Road.Police allege the rider accelerated while turning a corner, before losing control and crashing. He then attempted to flee on foot.Officers caught the man a short distance away. During a search, police allegedly located a knife, knuckle dusters and a small quantity of drugs.The rider, a 30-year-old man from Noarlunga Downs, was arrested and charged with weapon offences and drug possession.He was granted police bail and is expected to appear in court at a later date.

The Victor Harbor foreshore is at risk of coastal erosion and flooding from projected sea level rise and increasing storm frequency, according to advice to the council.In response, City of Victor Harbor is working with a range of experts to explore technically effective ways to manage the coastline from the Hindmarsh to Inman River.It has drafted an outline of preliminary options and is now seeking community feedback before developing a Coastal Adaptation Master Plan. The Master Plan area has been divided into five sites with preliminary coastal adaptation options identified for each area. They are: Hindmarsh River Estuary / Bridge Point Croquet Club / Skate Park / Tennis Courts Flinders Parade / Heritage Cafe / Lawn Bowls / Soldiers Memorial Garden Esplanade Beach Dunes Inman River Estuary and Caravan Park Levee There are three categories of options for each site: do nothing; hold the line; or transform.The draft plan discusses the potential impacts, costs and benefits of all these options.A fact sheet on the issue can be downloaded from the council website. An information session will be held at the council chambers on Bay Road on Tuesday 17 March from 5.30pm to 7pm.The deadline for feedback is 5pm on Sunday 22 March; complete a survey online.

Spread your wings this March and fly to The Coorong National Park to discover more than 150km of protected lagoons as Park of the Month.Genki Kondo, Senior Ranger, National Parks and Wildlife Service says the Coorong National Park is internationally significant and the perfect spot to host a program of events.“Park of the Month will showcase the environment and appeal to all”“I enjoy seeing people explore the park and creating memories here. It doesn’t matter whether it’s bird spotting, hiking or taking to the water in a kayak – seeing people use the park is inspiring”.“Most of the park is accessible by 2WD so it makes a great detour if you’re on the road between Adelaide and Mount Gambier or even en-route to Melbourne,” Mr Kondo says.The Coorong National Park is of enormous cultural significance to the Ngarrindjeri and First Nations of the South East people, with ancient mounds of discarded shells revealing archaeological evidence of Aboriginal campsites over thousands of years.This national treasure is also the home of the movie Storm Boy featuring the pelican Mr Percival.Movie fans can visit many of the locations used in the film.Events as part of Park of the Month include:• Paddle with a park ranger, Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 March.An exclusive paddle with a local park ranger and Canoe the Coorong guide. Learn about bushtucker from the local experts, eat a delicious fish burger after exploring the sand dunes of the Coorong National Park. All at a special discounted rate.• Dupang Festival – Friday 20 – Sunday 22 MarchJoin Uncle Moogy and Tal-Kin-Jeri dance group at this three-day celebration on Ngarrindjeri Lands. Including waterfront Coorong bush camping, cultural workshops and arts marketplace, smoking ceremony with dancing and storytelling under the stars.• Botanical art class, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 MarchImmerse yourself in the stunning coastal environment of the Coorong National Park and learn key techniques for botanical illustration from Gilbert RM Dashorst. Gilbert was the Scientific, Botanical Illustrator at the State Herbarium for 30 years, illustrating plants for scientific publications, State, National and Overseas. One of his many Illustrated books was 'The Plants of the Adelaide Plains and Hills'.• Self-Led guide to the Coorong - throughout the year.A one-day itinerary to guide you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Coorong National Park. Allow 8 hours to complete this itinerary from start to finish.For more information about these and other events and to book tickets visit the website.

Regional Development Australia is looking into early childhood education and care across the region and wants to hear from the community.RDA is interested in the need for early childhood education and care to support young children and their families and, in turn, help employers to attract and retain staff. It says access to education and care services, including long daycare and preschool/kindergarten, improves educational outcomes for children and engagement in employment and study for families.“Early childhood education and care affects everyone, from how well our children thrive, to how families balance life, and even how local businesses grow.“Access to early learning isn’t just a family issue. It’s an economic one too, with impacts in the broader community.”Parents, employers and early childhood service providers are encouraged to complete an anonymous online survey about what is needed to support children, families and employers in the local region.It will take about 10 minutes to complete and will contribute to evidence-based advocacy to the government for better planning and investment in this critical area.Anyone who prefers to give feedback in person can drop in to a community information session next week.Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island sessions will be as follows:Yankalilla library – Tuesday 10 March 10.30am to 11.30am.Manna Studio, McLaren Vale - Tuesday 10 March 2pm to 3pm.Victor Harbor Library – Wednesday 11 March 3pm to 4pm.Goolwa Children’s Centre – Thursday 12 March 11am, to 12noon.YMCA Strathalbyn - Thursday 12 March 1pm to 2pm.Kangaroo Island Community Centre – Monday 16 March 12noon to 1pm.This survey is funded by the state government through the Office for Early Childhood Development.

Goolwa Community Association will host a full day of community events at Jaralde Park in Goolwa on Saturday 7 March.The Murray Sunrise Harmony Market will run from 10am to 2pm; a welcoming, inclusive market celebrating community, creativity and connection.It will be followed by the Murray Sunset Culinary Festival from 4pm to 8pm, with delicious food, live entertainment, a bar and a relaxed festival atmosphere as the sun sets.The day will finish with a community movie night under the stars from 8pm to 10pm, featuring the film Yesterday.Entry to all is by gold coin donation to help Goolwa Community Association continue to deliver accessible, volunteer-run events.Take along picnic rugs, chairs, family and friends and drop in for one event or all of them.

The City of Onkaparinga is reviewing the way it communicates with the community and is asking for input on how to do it better.It will run three separate public surveys on having a say, being informed and customer experience.The first survey, asking people how they want to provide feedback to the council, is currently open.A new Community Engagement Charter means that South Australian councils are required to adopt a Community Engagement Policy by 11 September 2026.It will cover how the council engages and communicates with the public; how community feedback is provided and shared; and ways the council can make engagement more inclusive and accessible.A community drop in session will be held at Aldinga Library on Thursday 12 March from 10am to 1pm.Find out more about the Community Engagement Policy and complete the survey on the City of Onkaparinga website. The deadline to complete the survey is 15 March.

Further sections of Deep Creek National Park – including campsites, several walking tracks and picnic tables – have reopened after a bushfire burnt more than 4500 hectares.National Parks and Wildlife Service Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Region Manager Tony Magor says hard work continues with on-ground assessments, clean-up and remediation.About 40 per cent of Deep Creek National Park and almost all of Talisker Conservation Park was burnt in the blaze, which destroyed large areas of native species habitat.“Some unburnt sections of Deep Creek National Park have already reopened, including Stringybark CG, Stringybark loop walk and Forest Circuit walk, Boat Harbor Beach 4WD trackand all but one Southern Ocean Retreat accommodations,” Mr Magor says.“I’m pleased to say that from today, Marrano Creek Hike, Blowhole Beach Hike, Deep Creek Circuit Hike, Deep Creek Cove Hike from Cobbler Hill Picnic Area, Spring Wildflower Walk,Pages Lookout, Tapanappa Lookout and the Cobbler Hill Picnic Area will reopen.”Campgrounds at Tapanappa, Cobbler Hill, Trig and Yapri Ngawanthi (Cliffs) and amenities will also reopen and are ready to welcome visitors.Goondooloo Ridge Walk, Deep Creek Waterfall Hike from Tapanappa Lookout, Deep Creek Waterfall Hike from Tent Rock Road, Deep Creek Circuit Hike, Aaron Creek Hike, and AaronCreek Circuit as well as the Blowhole Beach 4WD track remain closed until further notice.Talisker Conservation Park, including the Talisker Silver Lead Mine Hike, remains closed.All visitors are asked to check the website for the latest information about Deep Creek National Park.Deep Creek National Park is home to an array of native wildlife, including western grey kangaroos, short beaked echidnas and 100 species of birds.The Wildlife Recovery Fund – established in partnership with the Nature Foundation – is now open to raise funds to support the restoration of key habitats destroyed in the fire.To support Deep Creek’s recovery and contribute to the Wildlife Recovery Fund, visit the website.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) has installed a new time-based 40kmh speed limit at two schools in the Alexandrina Council area.They are Eastern Fleurieu School (7-12 Campus) on Callington Road, Strathalbyn and  Mount Compass Area School on Victor Harbor Road, Mount Compass.DIT says the change to a 40 km/h time-based school speed limit will bring South Australia in line with other states and will improve children’s safety when travelling to and from school. It started rolling out the change across the state in November 2025 on roads near schools that currently have speed limits of 50 km/h or higher.The 40kmh speed limits will only apply during the school drop-off and pick-up period on school days between 8am to 9.30am and 2pm to 4pm.The rollout will be completed late in 2026, with two schools in Victor Harbor among the last to be affected.They are Encounter Lutheran College, on Adelaide Road in Hayborough and Investigator College, on Inman Valley Road in Victor Harbor.For more information and to view where the speed limit zone applies visit the DIT website. 

The alternative event to Adelaide Writers Week will include free events on the south coast in the first week of March.The full program for Constellations: Not Writers’ Week has been announced, with over 100 authors participating across 50 events in 19 venues, including the Horseshoe Bay jetty, in Port Elliot and Victor Harbor library.“When we set out to fill the void left by the cancellation of Writers’ Week, we did not expect such an incredible response,” says author Jennifer Mills, one of the Constellations organisers.“It just goes to show how important books, writing and freedom of expression are to South Australians,” she says.The umbrella festival is decentralised and made up of events of every scale, from major programming at the Adelaide Town Hall to early morning swimmers meeting informally to share poetry. The program is spread around Adelaide CBD, suburbs and regional areas. Most events are free, with donations supporting the fair payment of participating authors.Wet Bathers at Port Elliot will be a daily event from Monday 2 March to Friday 5 March from 8am to 8.30am at Horseshoe Bay Jetty.This is an invitation to join an early morning swimming community to share poetry, story and song. No registration is required for this event; look out for the blue flag.Victor Harbor library will host two Constellations sessions on fantasy writing on Tuesday 3 March, in partnership with Squirrel and Sparrow Bookstore.The first is a panel session – Why Fantasy Matters When the World feels Too Real, in conversation with authors Sarah Neilson, Nadine Abrahams, Barb Rosie, Lorelei Johnson and Wendy Noble, from 2pm to 3pm.The second is a writing session – Micro-Stories: Writing Writing Fantasy for Uncertain Times, from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.Both sessions are free to attend, but registration is required online. Constellations: Not Writers’ Week runs from today, Saturday 28 February to  Saturday 6 March. The full program is available on the website. 

The Zonta Club of the Fleurieu is inviting the community to attend the Fleurieu Women’s Expo on Sunday, March 15, 2026, from 11:00am to 2:00pm at Grosvenor Gardens, Victor Harbor.The Expo will celebrate and recognise the outstanding contributions of women across the Fleurieu region. The event aims to highlight local achievements, showcase the diverse talents within the community, and promote initiatives that support positive change for women and families.What to ExpectAttendees can enjoy a range of activities and opportunities, including:Informative exhibits highlighting local projects and community achievementsDisplays from local services that support women and familiesGuest speakers sharing insights and experiencesHands-on workshopsFamily-friendly activitiesA BBQ and coffee van available on siteThe event is open to all members of the community and offers a welcoming space to connect, learn and celebrate the role women play in shaping the region.Further InformationFor more details, contact:📞 0409 080 051📧 [email protected]

This week’s Pet of the Week is the beautiful-natured Marshmallow, a sweet and affectionate boy who is ready to find his forever home.True to his name, Marshmallow is soft-hearted and full of warmth. He absolutely adores cuddles, belly rubs, and spending quality time with his favourite humans. Whether it’s relaxing together at home or heading out for a gentle walk, Marshmallow is happiest when he’s by your side.He’s the kind of dog who will make you smile with his gentle nature and loyal companionship. With the right home, Marshmallow will flourish into a devoted best friend who brings comfort, love, and a little extra sweetness to every day.If you’re looking for a loyal companion who thrives on human connection, Marshmallow would love to meet you.👉 View Marshmallow’s full adoption profile here: https://www.adoptapet.com.au/pet/a4_185768Let’s help this gorgeous boy find the loving home he deserves.

The Bureau of Meteorology has updated the Flood Watch for parts of South Australia, including Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula, with heavy rain forecast.That rain is expected to extend south on Friday and over the weekend, which could lead to rising river and creek levels and localised flooding.“A slow moving low pressure system over southern Northern Territory extending a trough into the northeast of Southern Australia is forecast to continue producing widespread moderate to heavy rainfall across the Flood Watch area over the next few days, with locally intense falls possible.”Local Catchments likely to be affected include:Kangaroo IslandAngas and Bremer RiversFleurieu PeninsulaOnkaparinga RiverTorrens and metropolitan rivers and creeks are also likely to be affected.For the latest flood and weather warnings visit the BOM alerts page. For the latest rainfall and river level information visit the BOM flood page.Safety adviceDon't drive, walk, swim or play in floodwater because it is dangerous.Stay away from flooded drains, rivers, streams and waterways.Obey road closure signs. Plan ahead so you don't drive on flooded roads.Check the ABC and local media for updates. The situation can change quickly, so stay informed.For local emergency management warnings and advice visit the SES website.

National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia will offer free tours at an open day at Kangaroo Island’s Kelly Hill Caves on Sunday 1 March. The open day celebrates 100 years of tours at this iconic attraction and brings to a close Park of the Month events on the island.Activities and snacks will be available at ground level on return from the underground adventure. Visitors can also walk through the stunning native forest and enjoy the diversity of birds that make their home around the caves.The open day is free for all, the free tour must be booked to avoid missing out.Everyone can also enter the Park of the Month competition by snapping a photo of an iconic parks attraction for the chance to win yourself a Multiple Parks Pass.Visit the NWPS website for full details.

Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Telstra are inviting remote, rural and regional community groups to apply for grants of up to $10,000 through round 4 of Telstra’s Connected Communities Grant Program.With $200,000 available, the program will support locally-led initiatives that strengthen digital inclusion, enhance community connection and resilience, and build sustainability and liveability of rural Australia.Now in its fourth year, FRRR says the program has already enabled almost 70 not‑for‑profit organisations nationwide to upgrade digital infrastructure, deliver digital skills training, support disaster readiness and improve service delivery. This has led to more resilient communities, greater digital equity, sustained social connection, more empowered volunteers and staff, as well as environmental and cultural benefits.Jill Karena, FRRR Head of Granting, says previous rounds show communities are not just wanting access to technology - they are seeking the capability, confidence and infrastructure to sustain and strengthen their community.“Digital access is fundamental to community wellbeing and opportunity - whether you’re running a local service, volunteering, learning, caring for Country or staying connected in times of crisis,” she says.“Rural communities are using digital tools in incredibly creative and practical ways: from First Nations organisations developing digital platforms to share language and culture, to volunteer groups strengthening emergency communication, through to Neighbourhood Centres delivering cyber safety workshops and digital mentoring.“Grants that support projects like these help bridge the digital divide by enabling community groups to embed technology into local solutions, build long-term capability and ensure no one is left behind.”Loretta Willaton, Telstra’s Regional Australia Executive, said Telstra is proud to back grassroots organisations that are using technology to strengthen the fabric of their communities.“The organisations applying to this program are tackling very real challenges - distance, limited connectivity, workforce pressures, ageing populations and more,” she says.“What stands out year after year is how communities are able to innovate when they have the right tools. They are improving emergency response systems, creating safe and inclusive digital learning spaces, preserving environmental and cultural knowledge, and ensuring people can stay connected, informed and supported - no matter where they live.“Telstra is proud to work with FRRR to support these local solutions and help build a more digitally capable and resilient rural Australia.”A free online information session will run from 12pm to 1pm AEDT on Tuesday 3 March, offering guidance on eligibility, project design and the application process. Register online. To learn more about eligibility criteria and what’s required in the application, go to the website.  Applications are now open and close at 5pm AEDT on Thursday 26 March. Applicants will be notified of outcomes by the end of June 2026.

Anyone who went to school in Victor Harbor, Port Elliot or Goolwa anytime since 2005 is asked to contribute to the City of Victor Harbor’s Future Ready Strategy.The council wants people to hear from who stayed on the Fleurieu after school, as well as those who moved away and those who left and later returned.The Future Ready Strategy aims to guide how the south coast plans for future jobs, housing and liveability.Everyone’s journey matters, wherever life has taken them and the council says the more voices it hears, the stronger the plan.Old scholars can complete a five-minute survey online and go into the draw to win a set of AirPods Max. The survey closes 15 March.

Alexandrina Council presented Local Government Service Awards to 21 employees last week, including its longest-serving employee, Allan Pomery, who has worked for the council for 45 years.Thelma Vivian was also recognised for 30 years of service with Alexandrina Libraries.Local Government Service Awards are long-service recognition awards that acknowledge individuals’ contributions to local government across South Australia, including council employees and elected councillors. They are part of the LGA SA’s broader Local Government Awards program.“In the case of Allan and Thelma, the long service has been accrued at Alexandrina or pre-amalgamation councils, which is an extraordinary feat,” says Alexandrina Chief Executive Officer Andrew MacDonald.“Allan has detailed knowledge of our area, which is invaluable to council and our community and his dedication to Council and community is unparalleled.“Thelma is a much-loved and respected member of the Library and wider Alexandrina Team, and she is a passionate advocate for the positive impact Libraries have on our community.“To all our employees who have received long service awards, I pass on my congratulations.“These awards celebrate dedication, knowledge and contribution to local communities through the local government sector.”Local Government Service Awards were also presented to:• Colin Shackleford and Kerry Abbott (25 years).• Stacey Bateson, James Horwood and Mark Hicks (20 years).• Lachlan Miller, Deb Gregory, Lianda Deans and Julie Payne (15 years).• Travis Griffen, Gary Lyons, Cheryl Ludgate, Doug Jones, Kylie Markow, Anna Schmidt, Andrew Rodda, David Heath, Shannon Hirniak and Braden Wray (10 years).Alexandrina Asset Inspector Allan Pomery, from Port Elliot, began working with the District Council of Port Elliot and Goolwa in 1980 as a garbage truck driver.Allan has held many roles with the council over the ensuing decades including signage,graffiti removal, machinery operator and undertaking corella control.Outside of his service to Alexandrina Council, Allan has been captain of the Port Elliot CFS Brigade and has volunteered his firefighting services both locally and interstate as required for many years.Thelma Vivian began working as a trainee at the District Council of Port Elliot and Goolwa in 1995.During her 30 years of service, she has dedicated her career to the important role libraries play in the community and to individuals, offering learning through imagination and information and positively impacting their lives.Thelma’s current role includes the maintenance of the Alexandrina Libraries collections, training library staff and volunteers as well as delivering the Little Rock ‘n’ Read program.