May the force be with you next weekend at Willunga Recreation Park’s annual Jigsaw Mania event.The two-day puzzle fest starts on Saturday 4 May with a Star Wars-themed day of cosplay, music raffle and merch.It runs from 2pm to 6pm, with individual, pairs and teams competitions tackling 500 and 1000 piece puzzles.Sunday 5 May sees a return to more traditional puzzling, with an individual  competition in the morning and pairs in the afternoon.Jigsaw Mania is one of four major fundraising events for the Willunga Recreation Park, a community facility on Main Road, Willunga.Find more information on the Facebook page and book tickets via Humanitix.

The CLLMM Research Centre in Goolwa, is set to redefine local environmental research. In its first year of operation the Centre has quickly become a hub for collaborative, community-driven research, shaping the future of the region. In a groundbreaking initiative, the Coorong, Lower Lakes, and Murray Mouth (CLLMM) Research Centre is set to redefine the landscape of community-driven scientific research. Established in July 2023 by the Goyder Institute for Water Research, the Centre takes a unique approach, shifting away from traditional top-down research models to one that is entirely community-focused. Conceived in response to the advocacy of Rebekha Sharkie MP, Deputy Premier Susan Close and the local community, the CLLMM Research Centre was officially announced by the federal government in October 2022. Since then, it has been dedicated to fostering partnerships with First Nations peoples and the local community to ensure their perspectives are at the forefront of decision-making processes and research pathways. According to the Centre's Communication and Engagement Coordinator, Dr Tiffany Nay, CLLMM is unlike conventional research centres. "All of our research is actually being driven by community values. We're working to capture what's important to the community and use that to establish what research and engagement activities we have moving forward in the Centre. "This is such an exciting time for us and the community as we can work together to tackle future issues that will challenge the region," she says. CLLMM has the potential to cover a variety of research areas, ranging from environmental topics like biodiversity and specific species to economic impacts, particularly those associated with climate change. The goal is to align the research agenda with the community's concerns and interests. The Centre has already initiated a value capturing process, involving community workshops and a community survey. The survey played a crucial role in gathering local insights. As well as ongoing community engagement, the Centre is gearing up for the launch of a school’s education program. This initiative aims to involve students and schools in the region, fostering environmental awareness and education from an early age. The centre aptly is located at the Goolwa Aquatic Building and is a hub of community activity, with much more planned. "This open space is going to be where all of our community events and community functions happen. We will be hosting community events and the school programs in this space," Dr Tiffany Ney says. Aiming to bring science closer to the community, the Centre will feature innovative tools such as the Big Sandbox, an augmented reality experience that visualises landscape scenarios. It also plans to develop an app providing interactive information about the region, from sea-level rise projections to historical perspectives. One of the distinctive features of the Centre is its commitment to integrating First Nations collaboration and involvement. Nathan Hartman, First Nations Engagement Officer, plays a pivotal role in establishing connections and ensuring that First Nations knowledge is embedded in research projects. He emphasises the importance of incorporating this cultural perspective and runs workshops with First Nations communities. "First Nations culture and perspectives are extremely useful in improving our understanding of the local environment, and we're very excited to bring them into our Research Centre’s projects. This is an amazing opportunity to guide our projects using First Nation peoples’ intricate and ancient understandings of the environment, while also providing a space where First Nations priorities amidst coming climate change can be directly addressed for multi-beneficial outcomes for everyone involved. My role is critical for this. I act as the point of connection between the Research Centre and the First Nations communities. It is imperative that we tackle these climate change challenges through utilising the expertise and perspectives of First Nations people and research organisations alike. Providing a more holistic approach to a universal crisis." The CLLMM Research Centre positions itself as a vital player in the environmental and community stewardship of the region, and has already joined existing research on waterbirds and native fish of the Coorong, macroinvertebrates, and the overall health of the ecosystem. As the Centre continues to evolve, it stands as an example of community-driven science, embracing inclusivity and collaboration to address the unique challenges and opportunities of the region’s landscape. 

Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu and Trees For Life (SA) will host several free workshops on revegetation and how to care for native vegetation on local properties across the Fleurieu over the next month.The online and on-site workshops will cover caring for and managing native bushland; and recognising the impact of weeds and how to control them.There will also be an opportunity to create a property plan to guide activities.The online workshops on Caring for Native Vegetation will be held on Thursday 2 May and Tuesday 4 June, both at 7pm.The Hindmarsh Tiers session will be on Sunday 10 May at 10am and the Nangkita session will be on Friday 31 May at 1pm. Workshops on Revegetation - Planning for Success will be held as follows:Yankalilla - Friday 10 May at 1pm .Hindmarsh Valley - Saturday 11 May at 1pm.Strathalbyn - Sunday 26 May at 1pm.For more information and to book a place go to Eventbrite.

Victor Harbor Primary School has clocked up 150 years of local education and is planning a community celebration for September.It is calling for contribution of historic items, photos and stories that can be used for the event.A Facebook group has been set up for past and present staff, students and families to share tales from history, near and long ago.Anyone who has been involved with the school is invited to join up and help recreate and celebrate the history of the last 150 years.The school is especially keen to find its oldest living former student.As part of the September celebration the school will dig up its 50-year time capsule, with anyone who has an item buried in it welcome to join in.The contents of the time capsule will be put on display at the school, with times available for the local community to visit and view.Originally established in 1874, the school has recently been extensively upgraded.Located on The Parkway, in Victor Harbor, it currently educates 470 students.

Alexandrina Council will run a free energy efficiency workshop on Wednesday 1 May for residents of the areas around Milang and Clayton Bay.It will offer practical energy-saving tips for the home in preparation for winter.There will also be the opportunity to share tips and experiences of making homes more energy efficient.Learn how to navigate the Residential Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS) and the rebate items and activities available for the home.The free workshop will be held at the Milan Institute and runs from 10am to 1130am. Book a place online. It is suitable for renters as well as homeowners, who want to make their homes more comfortable and more energy-efficient this winter.

A driver has lost her licence after being caught drink driving in Goolwa yesterday, Thursday 25 April.Police had set up a driver testing station on Hutchinson Street at Goolwa when they attempted to stop a vehicle at 5pm. The driver ignored the direction to stop and drove around the site.The vehicle stopped a short distance away and the driver, a 37-year-old Port Elliott woman, submitted to a breath test where she provided a positive reading of 0.278 – more than five times over the legal limit.She was reported for drink driving and will be summonsed to appear in court at a later date.  She was also issued a 12-month immediate loss of licence and her car was impounded for 28 days.

After conducting an April blitz on weed control, City of Victor Harbor has called for local gardeners to look out for the Gazania.Council crews undertook weed control activities between the Inman River Estuary and Causeway as part of ongoing efforts to prevent weeds from dominating remnant dune vegetation and infesting open spaces. Gazania, also known as African Daisy, is a particular local problemIt is a declared weed, originally from South Africa, that quickly spreads rapidly in the mild coastal climate. When Gazanias are found in gardens or on the nature strip, they should be carefully removed and put in the green organics bin. They should not be dumped or transported anywhere and are best replaced with local native species.For more information on Gazania visit the council weeds webpage. 

Fleurieu and KI drivers heading to the city should be aware that testing is underway on the state’s first mobile phone detection cameras installed at key corridors in a bid to reduce dangerous distraction behind the wheel.  Overhead cameras at four busy locations across Adelaide have been set up, targeting drivers who use their mobile phones and put themselves and other road users at risk. Sites now testing include South Road, at Torrensville, with SA Police detecting one in 84 drivers using their mobile phones – at an average of 177 incidents per day – during a single-lane trial of the new technology last year.Dan Cregan MP is the newly appointed  Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services. “If you swipe, tap or text behind the wheel, you are putting yourself, your passengers and the community at risk,” he says.  “Testing these cameras gives plenty of notice for every driver to consider their behaviour and, if required, to change it. “The trial conducted last year highlights just how many wrongly think it’s acceptable to use their phones, when the tragedies on our roads continue to show the devastating results.” Between 1 April and 28 April 2023, a total of 4,955 incidents were detected from 415,805 passing vehicles – equating to an offence rate of 1.19 per cent. The cameras, part of a $15.9 million state government investment to curb road trauma and improve safety, aim to change this behaviour, which increases a driver’s crash risk by at least four times. It says driver inattention, which includes phone use, is a contributing factor in around half of all lives lost and over a third of serious injuries.Mobile phone detection cameras have been fitted on existing digital signage at:South Road, Torrensville.Southern Expressway, Darlington.North-South Motorway, Regency Park.Port Wakefield Road, Gepps Cross.A fifth site, at Port Road in Hindmarsh, will go live for testing in coming weeks. Last year 117 lives were lost on South Australian roads, while 856 people suffered serious injuries. Of the 27 lives lost in 2024, seven have been linked to distraction along with 123 serious injuries.During the testing phase, vehicles will be photographed and validated by SA Police but no further action will be taken against drivers until 19 June, when a three-month grace period begins. During this grace period, vehicle owners will be issued with a warning letter advising them that the driver of their vehicle has been detected by the camera. From 19 September, SA Police will issue fines to vehicle owners or drivers, which are currently $540 (plus a $99 Victims of Crime levy) and three demerit points.  All funds raised from the fines will be returned to the Community Road Safety Fund, to deliver crucial initiatives across the state, including road safety improvements, education programs and hard-hitting public advertising. Camera locations were selected based on research by Adelaide University’s Centre for Automotive Safety Research, considering crash trends and targeting busy road corridors across metropolitan Adelaide. The cameras work by capturing high quality images from multiple angles through the driver’s windscreen, with artificial intelligence software identifying drivers on their mobile phones. Photographs of drivers are then validated by SA Police, with images of those following the law deleted. Officer in Charge Traffic Services Branch, Superintendent Darren Fielke, says as one of the Fatal Five causes of deaths on roads, South Australia Police welcomes the introduction of measures to deter people from using their mobile phones while driving.  “Although distraction can be more than mobile phone use, so far this year it has been a suspected cause in 1511 collisions.  “Our message to drivers is simple; leave your phone alone while driving. “Taking your eyes of the road, even for a split second, to read or respond to a message, slows down your reaction time and increases the chances of having a crash.” Get Home Safe Foundation President Darren Davis says it can’t be simpler. “It's illegal to use your phone when driving because it's dangerous. What is it that people don't understand? I've met too many people whose lives have been devastated by inattentive drivers. All we want is for everyone to get home safe. Just do that one thing. The text can wait.” 

Police are investigating a suspicious vehicle fire at Christie Downs this morning.About 6.10am Thursday 25 April, police were called to Coe Court after reports of a vehicle on fire. The vehicle was fully engulfed however MFS were on scene and quickly extinguished the fire. ​Crime scene investigators have attended the scene to establish the cause of the blaze.The Nissan utility was completed burnt-out and has been extensively damaged.Anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity or has any information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers.​You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at https://crimestopperssa.com.au or free call 1800 333 000

The Governor General of Australia His Excellency David Hurley and Mrs Hurley will visit Kangaroo Island this Sunday 28 April.They last visited in February 2022 to turn the sod for the Stokes Bay Community Hall, in support of the island community after the devastating fires of 2019-2020.KI Council says the Vice-Regal couple had planned to visit again earlier but were delayed by COVID.“The revitalisation and rebuilding of the Kangaroo Island community has been of particular interest to the Governor General and Mrs Hurley. “They are delighted to be returning to rekindle their connection to Island residents and see the revitalisation of the Stokes Bay community and Stokes Bay Hall.”The community is invited to Stokes Bay Hall at 2.30pm for an informal meet and greet with the Official party as they tour the Stokes Bay Community Hall Facility.

Federal MP for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie has called on the Australian government to back food manufacturing, following the launch of the SA Dairy Action Plan.The launch was held at the opening of the Amdena Dairy's new state-of-the-art rotary milking system in Mount Compass on Tuesday 23 April.The dairy has been operated by the Brokenshire family for more than 40 years and the opening showcased the state-of-the-art rotary milking system that will boost productivity, improve environmental outcomes, and support the health of their 400 Jersey cows.Ms Sharkie says more than 100 people attended the event, with the youngest of the family arguably stealing the show.  Haydon, Henry, Mia and Arlo, pictured with the MP, dressed in their distinctive blue overalls, demonstrating that generational contribution to the industry starts at a very young age.However, this is in stark contrast to the average age in the industry, currently 56 in South Australia. Ms Sharkie says the dairy sector and government are working together to address workforce issues as part of their successive industry action plans. “The dairy sector has experienced its share of ups and downs; it’s now heartening to see the industry in such a mature phase of development. Increases in technology, and animal and pasture management has resulted in considerable improvements in milk production.“It is now possible, in the right environment, for individual cows to produce up to 13,000 litres of milk per year, compared to less than 4,000 litres of milk per year 40 years ago.“The Australian Government has earmarked $15 billion in its National Construction Fund. “The Government must ensure viable industries, such as the food manufacturing sector, be given appropriate access to grow the dairy opportunity, especially given the natural competitive advantages Australia has in the area.“As a nation we tend to view manufacturing in the lens of physical products that we build rather than products that are consumed.  “We need to change this mindset. Food manufacturing for a global market is an enormous opportunity and we have all the elements for success.”

The City of Victor Harbor and Business Victor Harbor have been working closely together to develop a pathway for successfully attracting investment needed to grow the local economy.The newly endorsed Investment Attraction Strategy aims to strengthen Victor Harbor’s position as the regional centre of the Fleurieu Peninsula. It focuses primarily on the attraction of private commercial investors.The strategy is closely intertwined with the council’s existing Economic Development Strategy and partnership with Business Victor Harbor.Ultimately, the vision is for investment to be rewarding, easy, well informed and supportive of Victor Harbor as a place of prosperity and sustainable growth.City of Victor Harbor Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins says the four-year strategy is the first of its kind in Victor Harbor.“We sought to be clear on Victor Harbor’s competitive strengths and how these could be leveraged to attract and grow commercial activity that will drive the economy and create jobs,” she says.“While developing the strategy, we were able to outline 25 actions that all work towards different priorities, such as growing key industry sectors or investing in talent and skills development.”“The development of this strategy is important because if we can attract investment to Victor Harbor, we can build an even more liveable town for our community and secure a sustainable future.”“There are many reasons for private commercial stakeholders to invest in Victor Harbor. Strong population growth, proximity to Adelaide, a supportive business environment and an excellent lifestyle are just the beginning.”Business Victor Harbor Chairperson Gavin Daniell says a significant amount of work went into developing the strategy, which will now guide the approach towards attracting investment.“The strategy provides greater clarity on the various roles that partners have in attracting investment to Victor Harbor,” he says.“In Business Victor Harbor’s case, we typically play a role as an information channel, advocate or service provider.”“The strategy also seeks to address impediments to local investments, both perceived and real. “Actions in this area focus on development pathways and supporting investments in growing local talent and skills, enabling local businesses to deliver on their aspirations.”“Now the strategy has been endorsed and adopted, representatives from Council and Business Victor Harbor will need to come together to map out some preliminary actions that we can progress.”The Victor Harbor Investment Attraction Strategy can be viewed in full on the council website. victor.sa.gov.au/economicstrategy

Inspiring South Australia, the Department for Environment and Water and the South Australian Chapter of the Australian Citizen Science Association have opened nominations for the Citizen Science Award. Groups on the Fleurieu and KI have a great track record in citizen science; the 2023 award went to Kangaroo Island/Victor Harbor Dolphin Watch.The Citizen Science Award welcomes submissions that highlight the remarkable achievements of South Australian citizen science projects in advancing scientific knowledge and understanding.Organisers say citizen science is a powerful tool, with the ability to connect people of all ages and walks of life, across the state, with science and the world around them. It can help bridge gaps in research data, enhance science communication, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the natural world, through educational initiatives and outreach programs. Sonia Dominelli is National Parks and Wildlife Service Acting Director, Regional Operations.“Citizen science contributes to our knowledge of flora and fauna across the state and captures important information which can help to inform conservation and management actions,” she says.“With the help of citizen scientists, we can better understand South Australian biodiversity and ecosystems.“The National Parks and Wildlife Service highly encourages South Australians to recognise any group or individuals undertaking citizen science projects with a nomination in this year’s awards.”Citizen science can also empower individuals to actively contribute to scientific endeavours in their own communities.It has grown into a global movement, enlisting the passion and dedication of people in the community. Their participation in meaningful research projects exemplifies the democratisation of science, demonstrating that scientific discoveries are within reach of anyone willing to engage with curiosity and enthusiasm.Dr Sylvia Clarke, Chair Australian Citizen Science Association – SA Chapter, says it is an exciting time for citizen science in South Australia with the number and real-world impact of projects increasing every year.“We welcome nominations from citizen science projects where the South Australian public are making contributions to any scientific field, from environmental sciences to health sciences to astronomy.“We look forward to seeing which project will join previous winners Insect Investigators, Echidna CSI and Kangaroo Island/Victor Harbor Dolphin Watch, as the 2024 recipient of the award.The Citizen Science Award is open to South Australian groups and individuals currently engaged in citizen science activities that promote and increase community participation in projects that encompass quality science, engagement and education.Alison Kershaw, Program Manager Inspiring South Australia, says citizen science is often the first-time children and young people get to meet real scientists and get hands on with real science.“Inspiring SA is proud to be a supporter of the Citizen Science Award which showcases the fantastic citizen science projects happening in South Australia.”The Award offers two prizes, a first prize of $5,000 and a finalist prize of $2,500, it’s hoped the prize money will further support the project or to generate new projects.Nominations close at 10am Tuesday 11 June. For more information and to submit nominations visit the website.

RSPCA SA’s Lonsdale shelter will close to the public for the last time today, and CEO Marcus Gehrig will be there to welcome a retired district court judge who was instrumental in building the facility more than 40 years ago.Kingsley Newman, who celebrated his 88th birthday this month, was the organisation’s chairman for six years, from 1982 to 1988. By the time Mr Newman took on the role, the Lonsdale land had been bought, kennels had been built and the facility was being used to accommodate and re-home stray and unwanted dogs, following the closure of the Lost Dogs Home on Belair Rd at Torrens Park.By 1984 the shelter needed upgrading and expansion to accommodate other species, so Mr Newman successfully applied to the federal government for a Commonwealth Employment Project grant.“Prime Minister Bob Hawke was giving a lot of money away under the scheme to create jobs, and we got a terrific builder who had sadly gone bankrupt due to the tough economic times,” Mr Newman recalled.“The first building we got on the site was an old transportable someone gave us – I had volunteers helping to take off the roof so it could go under powerlines while in transit, and they helped paint it too.”Asked how he felt, now that the Lonsdale shelter he helped to build was closing, Mr Newman was full of enthusiasm for the move.“I’m proud of what we built back then, and it’s served animals and the South Australian community well, but animal welfare has come a long way in the decades since it opened and it’s definitely time RSPCA moved to a better and more prominent home.”Mr Gehrig said he was delighted that Mr Newman – who was there when the facility first opened – could be there again for this historic day.“We’re closing a huge chapter in RSPCA’s 149-year history in South Australia, and Kingsley Newman was a key figure in this organisation’s development through those first years at Lonsdale,” Mr Gehrig says.“Having him here today is an absolute joy.”To celebrate the Lonsdale shelter’s last day and to help as many animals as possible find homes ahead of next week’s relocation, all adoption fees will be halved today. The shelter will open at 10am and close to the public for the last time at 4pm. The new animal care campus, located on the north-west corner of South and Majors Roads at O’Halloran Hill, will open to the public at 10am on Monday 6 May.31 March 1985 – Then RSPCA SA Chairman Kingsley Newman at the opening of the extended Lonsdale animal shelter, with then SA Deputy Premier Don Hopgood.

Mrs Irene Dixon, 101, describes her time in the Australian Land Army as, “honest, hard work.”Now a resident at Resthaven Port Elliot, Irene is believed to be the last surviving South Australian member of the Australian Women’s Land Army.“It’s not surprising really,” she says with a wry smile. ”Many of the women I was with were about 10 years older than me.”Irene joined the Australian Women’s Land Army when she was 22 years old. World War II had broken out, and as the daughter of a farmer, she felt she could help with the war effort.“It was hard work,” she says. “We did all sorts of seasonal work, picking fruit, or helping in factories to dry potatoes. We went wherever we were needed. It wasn’t the type of work I was used to on the farm, as I was given the ‘girl’ jobs at home. “There was always a good fellowship among us workers,’” Irene says. ‘Everybody would do their bit. I can’t remember anyone ever getting into trouble for not doing the right thing. We were all hard workers.”One of 11 children, Irene grew up on the far west coast of South Australia, in a town called Charra, located between Ceduna and Penong.“Two of my brothers joined the army,” she says. “They wrote to let me know that the dried potatoes weren’t very tasty,” she laughs.Sadly, in 1941 one of her brothers was killed in Tobruk. Irene says things were different after that, and the family moved from Charra to Whyalla. While on holiday at Victor Harbor, Irene met her husband, John.“He was on leave from the navy, and two years after the war ended, we were married,” she says. ‘Times were hard, but he was a lovely man and a loving husband. We were married for 75 years.”Irene and John also lived in Whyalla for many years, but when their two children grew up and moved to Adelaide, Irene and John followed them to be closer to family. Sadly, John died in 2022, and Irene decided it was time to move again. She moved into Resthaven Port Elliot and is very pleased she did. “It’s a beautiful place to live,” she says. “I knew my life was going to change when I moved here. I went from being very independent to receiving help for many things. But I decided to be graceful about it, and I have been treated with kindness and respect at every turn.” Irene’s photos and some information about the Australian Women’s Land Army have been put on display at Resthaven Port Elliot, and on ANZAC Day this year, she will lay a wreath to remember those who lost their lives serving Australia.”Across the Fleurieu there are many ways to commemorate the day and honour Irene and other men and women who served.Here are the events scheduled for ANZAC Day 2024, Thursday 25 April:AldingaWar Memorial dawn service, starting 6.30am.EchungaRemembrance Gardens dawn service, starting 6.30am.GoolwaGoolwa RSL dawn service, starting at 5.45am.Hindmarsh IslandA short but solemn service of commemoration will be held in the forecourt of the Hindmarsh Island Cemetery (657 Randell Road) at 6.15am.The service will be held at the recently established memorial commemorating military service to Australia by European and Ngarrindjeri men and women from the Coorong.McLaren ValeMemorial Park dawn service, starting 5.45am.MeadowsMemorial Gardens dawn service, starting 6.30am.MiddletonMiddleton Soldiers Memorial Gardens, Remembrance ceremony starting 11.30am.Organised by the Middleton Town & Foreshore Association, the ceremony will be followed by tea, coffee and ANZAC biscuits.MilangMilang Soldiers Memorial Gardens, starting 10.30am.Mount CompassMount Compass Memorial Hall dawn service, starting 6am.Port ElliotPort Elliot War Memorial dawn service, starting 6am.The RSL bar and barbecue will be open from 1pm, with Two-Up from 1.30pm.Second ValleyWar Memorial dawn service, starting 6.15amStrathalbynStrathalbyn Soldiers Memorial Gardens dawn service, starting 6am.TooperangTooperang War Memorial Hall dawn service, starting 6am.Victor HarborCross of Sacrifice dawn service, starting 5.45am.WillungaRecreation Park dawn service, starting 6.15am.Road closures and speed limits will be in place for some services in the Alexandrina Council region, and drivers are urged to be cautious, with an increased number of pedestrians expected in these areas. For details visit the council’s Temporary Road Closures page.Visit the RSL South Australia website for further information and a full list of ANZAC Services happening across the state.

A comprehensive program of events, workshops and business-building opportunities scheduled for the upcoming Small Business Week will include a full day on Kangaroo Island.  The week-long program runs from 29 April to 3 May, with in-person and online sessions that align with the six themes of the SA Small Business Strategy 2023-2030. These themes were identified by South Australian business owners as the areas where they could use the most support to achieve growth:· Strengthening business capability.· Building skills and workforce.· Navigating the digital environment.· Boosting business sustainability.· Embracing diversity.· Improving access to government services. The live events will be complemented with a suite of online resources to allow all business owners access to the information they need, when they need it. Published throughout the week, these helpful resources will remain accessible to small businesses via the Resource Centre on the Office for Small and Family Business website.  The Kangaroo Island event will be held on Monday 29 April at the KI Business Hub in Kingscote, from 9.30am to 3pm. Its focus will be strengthening business capability, building skills and workforce.The program has been specifically created to provide local small and family businesses with relevant insights and support to address current challenges and opportunities.Business owners can join the event for all three sessions, or pick and choose what’s most relevant to them.Details of the full Small Business Week program and how to register are available on the Business SA website. The KI Business Hub will also host and evening workshop on Monday 29 April on Demystifying Migration.Regional Development Australia is supporting Department of Home Affairs and Department for Industry, Innovation and Science to deliver a practical discussion exploring the role of skilled migration in addressing workforce shortages. It will run from 6pm to 7pm; book a place via Eventbrite.   

Alexandrina Council is asking for community input to its concept design for a proposed permanent sound shell in the Strathalbyn Memorial Gardens.The structure would host a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, replacing the temporary stages that are currently used.It would be built on the northern side of the Angas River, allowing audiences to enjoy events and performances from the southern side. The sound shell would serve as a shelter available to the public in between events.The council expects constriction to cost more than half a million dollars, which is why it is calling for public feedback before exploring grant funding.Consultation closes Friday 10 May, with the final report due 17 June.View the proposed concept design and share opinions on the council’s My Say page. 

The state government has invited public  feedback on its draft Ramsar Management Plan for the Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Wetland.The draft plan provides a framework to protect and maintain the ecological character of the Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Wetland.This is critical for the environment, First Nations, local communities and economies, the overall health of the Murray-Darling Basin and the success of the Basin Plan. The Coorong is one of South Australia’s most iconic natural assets and is recognised as a ‘Wetland of International Importance’ under the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar 1971).The Coorong and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Wetland Ramsar site provides significant environmental values that underpin the recreational and economic benefits of the region, such as tourism and commercial fishing.The site is of great cultural importance to the Ngarrindjeri and First Nations of the South East as their spiritual, social, cultural, and economic practices come from the region's lands and waters.Since the original Ramsar Management Plan was developed in 2000, there has been significant progress in both environmental management practices and scientific investigations of the site. The revised draft plan incorporates takes account of this, along with the experiences, knowledge and learnings from the Millennium Drought.All feedback will be considered when finalising the draft Ramsar Management Plan, which will be released later this year.Consultation closes 24 May; full details and a survey can be found on the state Your Say website.

Friends of Nangawooka Flora Reserve will hold its autumn open day next Sunday 28 April.Six growers from the Australian Plant Society of SA will have native plants for sale and free soil testing will be offered to those who take samples from their garden.Butterfly conservancy, Native Orchid Society and Cittaslow will all attend the day, which will run from 10am to 3pm.An all day barbecue, plus tea, coffee and cake will be available to fuel appreciation of the autumn foliage.Maintained by volunteers, Nangawooka is a 5-acre reserve north of Victor Harbor on the corner of Waterport Road and the Adelaide Road. It was started in 1982 and plantings range from Western Australian species at the Northern end of the reserve to a mix of general native species in the centre and species specific to the Fleurieu Peninsula nearer the southern entrance.Entry to the reserve is free but a gold coin donation is always appreciated.