KALEIDOSCOPE
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Our final edition of the year is a great opportunity to reflect on what we’ve achieved together. We also have much to look forward to heading into summer and the holiday season which brings a special energy to our City.
Construction of our new beachside community hub Ngutungka Henley is now in its final stages. We cannot wait to share this incredible new facility with you early next year. Head to page 10 for the latest updates and photos from the site.
We recently held a Co-Design Workshop led by the remarkable Dana Shen which explored ways to strengthen connections and embed First Nations perspectives in our community. One of the key outcomes is the commitment to establish a First Nations Reference Group which will help amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our City.
I’m excited to share that the cross-council Irrigation Construction Team will continue delivering essential projects for another five years. This partnership with the City
of Port Adelaide Enfield illustrates the power of collaboration and innovation beyond our borders. Learn more about the team on page 5.
Our City is full of vibrancy at this time of the year and there’s a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy across our libraries, community centres and other community events. Be sure to check the ‘What’s On’ section for all the details.
A reminder that some of our facilities will have modified opening hours over the end of year period. We are still here to support you with essential services during this time. I also encourage you to take this opportunity to connect with loved ones, unwind and enjoy a well-earned break.
As we wrap up 2024, we are already looking ahead to what 2025 will bring. With exciting events and new programs on the horizon, there’s something for everyone in our wonderful City.
Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to you all. Our community is at the heart of everything we do, and your support has made 2024 a year to remember.
Wishing you all a happy and safe holiday season.
MAYOR
Angela Evans (08) 8408 1397 angelaevans@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
COUNCILLORS
Beverley Ward
Cr Edgar Agius, OAM, JP (08) 8445 7643 | 0424 451 154 eagius@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr Michael McEwen 0423 635 266 mmcewen@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Findon Ward
Cr Peter Ppiros 0408 865 004 pppiros@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr George Turelli (08) 8356 7169 | 0419 999 575 gturelli@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Grange Ward
Cr Rachele Tullio 0422 969 273 rtullio@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr Tom Scheffler (08) 7225 2782 tscheffler@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Henley Ward
Cr Kenzie van den Nieuwelaar 0450 869 935
kvandennieuwelaar@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr Merlindie Fardone 0411 688 291 mfardone@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Hindmarsh Ward
Cr Katriona Kinsella 0426 377 946 kkinsella@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr Alice Campbell 0425 351 177 acampbell@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Semaphore Park Ward
Cr Stuart Ghent, JP 0418 499 431
sghent@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr Nicholas LeLacheur 0433 188 963 nlelacheur@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
West Woodville Ward
Cr Kelly Thomas 0450 220 487 kellythomas@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr Nicole Mazeika 0402 456 896
nmazeika@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Woodville Ward
Cr Khuyen (Quin) Tran 0451 216 153 quin.tran@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cr Senthil Chidambaranathan 0415 728 638
schidambaranathan@charlessturt.sa.gov.au
Cover: The Semaphore Seabirds are all smiles in the sun at Semaphore Park Beach
Mayor Angela Evans
END OF YEAR OPERATING HOURS
Civic Centre
Our Civic Centre will be closed from 3pm, Tuesday 24 December and will reopen on Thursday 2 January 2025.
Our Customer Contact Centre will be taking phone calls, emails and providing webchat support on non-public holidays, but no front counter services will be available.
Beverley Recycling and Waste Centre
The Beverley Recycling and Waste Centre will close from 2pm, Tuesday 24 December, reopening on Friday 27 December 2024.
The Centre will also be closed on Wednesday 1 January 2025.
Libraries
Our Libraries will operate with reduced staff during operating hours across the Christmas/New Year period.
All branches will close from 3pm, Tuesday 24 December 2024 with Findon, Ngutungka West Lakes and Civic branches reopening Saturday 28 December. Hindmarsh will remain closed.
All branches will be closed Wednesday 1 January 2025 and reopen from Thursday 2 January 2025.
Our Mobile Library Service will close from Monday 16 December 2024 and will resume services to Aged Care facilities from Thursday 2 January 2025, with full services returning from Monday 6 January 2025.
Community Centres
All Community Centres will be closed from 4pm, Friday 20 December 2024 with the exception of 19 on Green which will remain open 9am to 4pm across the Christmas period excluding public holidays.
Centres will reopen as per current operating hours on Monday 6 January 2025.
Regular groups and hirers will continue to have access to centres during the closure except on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Immunisation Clinic
The final clinic of the year will be Friday 20 December 2024, reopening Tuesday 7 January 2025.
Recycling and Waste Collection
There will be no collections on Christmas Day Wednesday, with collection scheduled for the following day (26 December).
Our Transforming City
WEATHERING THE FUTURE
Stormwater Upgrade at Gleneagles Reserve
Managing stormwater is important for keeping our community safe and preventing floods in homes, roads, and parks. That’s why we’re improving the stormwater system at Gleneagles Reserve in Seaton. This project will help protect our community now and in the future.
Why is stormwater important?
Stormwater systems help manage rainwater by directing it into drains and basins to reduce flooding. Without these systems, heavy rain can flood streets and homes, causing expensive damage. By investing in these upgrades, we can minimise future problems
and reduce the need for costly repairs later.
The upgrades will increase the detention basin’s ability to temporarily store more stormwater and release it gradually, helping to manage heavy flows before they move downstream. This is especially important during major storms.
How the community will benefit
The Gleneagles Reserve upgrade will include a larger and deeper basin, a pump station, and gabion walls (which are strong, rock-filled walls), giving the basin more capacity to hold stormwater. These changes will help protect nearby homes and streets from flooding during
storms. A new pump system will quickly remove water from the basin within 24-48 hours, and the basin area will become useable soon after depending on weather. We’re also planting over 200 new trees to create a greener and more pleasant space for everyone to enjoy.
Why now and how long will it take?
The West Lakes Stormwater Management plan identified the project as a high priority flood mitigation project and Council was successful in receiving grants from the Disaster Ready Fund (Federal Government) and the Stormwater Management Authority (State Government).
The stormwater works including landscaping of the basin are scheduled to be completed in May 2025.
A smart investment for our City
By upgrading the stormwater system now, we’re preparing for the future and keeping our City safe and liveable. These improvements will lower flood risks, and make the surrounding park better and greener.
This project shows our commitment to improving our City. To learn more, visit our website and search ‘Gleneagles Reserve’.
PUMPED FOR PARTNERSHIP EXTENSION
The successful cross-council Irrigation Construction Team will continue to deliver essential projects for communities across our City and beyond for a further five years.
Since its formation in 2019, this collaborative team shared by the City of Charles Sturt, City of Marion and City of Port Adelaide Enfield has delivered outstanding results and savings as a testament to the power of cross-council partnerships.
The project team has achieved:
• $6.5 million worth of work completed since its inception
• $2.27 million of work forecasted for this financial year alone
• Approximately $1.38 million of savings for our communities
• Expansion of the team from 4 to 6 onground staff, including an apprentice
• Currently working on its largest project to date: the $1.2 million upgrade of the Marion Golf Course irrigation system
We are pumped about this partnership and what this team will continue to deliver for our communities over the next five years.
ELEVATING FIRST NATIONS VOICES STREAMLINE REQUESTS WITH OUR CUSTOMER PORTAL
500 over 500 residents have signed up 10% Nearly 10% of all requests are now submitted online
We’ve had great feedback since launching our new customer portal in September. Nearly 10% of all service requests are now submitted online, with over 500 residents already signed up to report, monitor, and resolve their requests. The portal makes it simple to stay on top of things, whenever it suits you.
The end of the year is a great time to get organised. There are a few things you can manage through the portal to help with that satisfying
end-of-year tidy-up:
• Report dumped rubbish or illegal dumping
• Request tree or footpath maintenance
• Order a kitchen caddy
Our portal offers a fast and easy way to handle requests, saving you time when it matters most. Simply sign up by scanning the below, and create an account today.
In October, we hosted a co-design workshop facilitated by Dana Shen, focused on connecting with each other and discussing how to prioritise First Nations perspectives within Charles Sturt.
During the workshop, Uncle Allen Edwards Snr (Kaurna and Kokatha Elder and resident), Mayor Angela Evans, and 12 other stakeholders discussed implementing our residents’ aspirations to consider First Nations priorities outlined in our Community Vision 2040.
Co-design is a collaborative approach where communities
and professionals come together to shape solutions. It emphasises connection through the building of trust and sharing of power to promote respect and mutual benefit.
As a key outcome, Uncle Allen and Mayor Evans committed to continue building their relationship, working together to elevate the voice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who live, work, study, play and stay in the City of Charles Sturt through the development of a First Nations Reference Group.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
At Charles Sturt, we respect protocols which guide our meetings and how we operate. If you visit the chambers during a Council Meeting, there is an expectation that attendees will stand during Council opening proceedings. By standing, we demonstrate respect to the Mayor and our elected members. An Acknowledgement of Country works in much the same way – by Acknowledging Country at the beginning of our meetings and community events, we share respect for the First Nations communities who have carefully looked after this land for generations.
Pictured: Uncle Allen and Mayor Angela Evans
SHAPE WHERE YOU PLAY
Visit the playgrounds we will be renewing in 2025/26 these school holidays, and then share your feedback to help shape new and improved design:
• The Avenue Reserve, Athol Park
• First Avenue Reserve, Seaton
• River Park Reserve, Allenby Gardens
• Croydon Playground Reserve, Croydon
• Grange Recreation Reserve, Grange
Feedback is invited throughout December and January. We look forward to hearing from all playinfluencers these holidays.
Jump online to find out more before visiting, and then have your say on the future of playgrounds in our City.
yoursaycharlessturt. com.au/playgroundrenewals-2526
CREATING GREAT NEIGHBOURHOODS
As our City continues to grow, how do we support and meet the needs of our residents and businesses?
Through our planning works, we look to identify key areas to help create great, liveable neighbourhoods.
Projects may include greening the area, supporting local businesses, upgrading local parks and reserves, improving walking and cycling pathways and increasing community wellbeing.
Recently we sought community feedback to help prepare ‘Your Neighbourhood Plan’ for the suburbs of West Hindmarsh, Welland and Hindmarsh, located
south of Grange Road and Manton Street. It was great to meet and engage with local residents and businesses to hear their thoughts and insights.
This project builds on the success of the pilot project Your Neighbourhood Plan – Albert Park and Hendon, which included facade improvements along Tapleys Hill Road, street improvements for May Street, and the development of the new Spad Street Reserve.
Have your say on local projects in your City and follow the progress online.
yoursaycharlessturt.com
LOOKING AHEAD TO THE NEW YEAR
WESTERN ADELAIDE JOBS EXPO
26 March 2025 | Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Looking for your next opportunity? This free event connects job seekers of all ages with local employers and offers workshops to improve your job-hunting skills. Explore emerging industries, get resume help, and apply for jobs on-site through the jobs board. Enjoy live demonstrations, expert advice, and networking opportunities. Food and refreshments will be available, and the venue is fully accessible with easy public transport and parking options.
If you’d like to be an exhibitor or attend as a group/school please email: westernadelaidejobexpo@ gmail.com to register. For more information scan the QR code.
LIV GOLF ADELAIDE
14–16 February 2025 | Grange Golf Club
LIV Golf returns to Adelaide, bringing the excitement of 13 teams and 54 world-class players competing.
But the thrill doesn’t end on the green. As the tournament unfolds, the entire City buzzes with energy. With events, entertainment, and attractions popping up all over, there’s so much more to do beyond the course.
This is a great time to explore and enjoy everything our City has to offer. Scan the QR code for food spots and activity tips.
BRING YOUR FRINGE SHOW TO WOODVILLE TOWN HALL
February–March 2025 | Woodville Town Hall
Catch a Fringe show close to home at Woodville Town Hall, with performances ranging from intimate gigs to large concerts.
In 2025, we’re activating three incredible spaces, hosting audiences from 50 to 860. With discounted venue hire, audiovisual support, and marketing included, it’s the perfect place for artists of all kinds. Scan the QR code to learn more and secure your spot.
Image: Frankie the Creative
Pictured: Mayor Claire Boan and Mayor Angela Evans
WHAT’S ON
DECEMBER
21 December 2024
St Clair Carols Hill Smith Reserve
29 December 2024 – 7 January 2025 505 World Yacht Championships www.int505.org/2025-505-worldchampionships-adelaide-australia
JANUARY
Blessing of the Waters Festival
Sunday 12 January 2025 11am – 9.30pm https://gocsa.org.au/whats-on/
18 & 19 January 2025
Adelaide TET Festival 62 Athol Street, Athol Park https://www.facebook.com/ VietnameseCommunityinAustraliaSA/
19 January 2025
Make It Mine Market Henley Square Market henley@makeitminemarkets.com.au
FEBRUARY
1 & 2 February 2025
Cyprus Festival Cyprus Club, 6/8 Barrpowell Street, Welland
9 February 2025
Pink and Blue Swim West Beach Surf Life Saving Club For more, visit www.westbeachslsc.com.au
11 February 2025
Self-Employment Assistance Showcase
Civic Centre, 10am – 12pm Visit CCS Eventbrite for more.
18 February 2025
Kickstart or Restart Your Career Woodville Civic Centre, 10am – 12pm Visit CCS Eventbrite for more.
24, 26, 27 February & 3, 4 March 2025
Exploring Self-Employment Workshops (5-day workshop) Civic Centre, 9am – 1pm daily Visit CCS Eventbrite for more.
From sport to Christmas, music and culture, there are a whole heap of fantastic events coming to our City. This year we are excited to be sponsoring over 18 events through our Events & Festivals Sponsorship fund. The Sponsorships provide $125,000 of funding to support a diverse mix of community-run events.
Connecting and Belonging
NGUTUNGKA HENLEY OPENING SOON
The doors to the new Ngutungka Henley will open February 2025.
With a library, community kitchen, activity space, outdoor courtyard and rooms for hire we can’t wait to share it with our community.
‘Ngutungka’ is Kaurna for ‘place of knowledge’ and
SUMMER READING COMPETITION
this name not only shares our intention in creating a space to learn, discover and grow but also acknowledges our First Nations history.
Keep your eye on our socials for details about our exciting Open Day event.
Calling all library lovers! Join our interactive challenges to win prizes like wireless headphones, summer reads, and yummy treats.
The holidays are here, and so is the hot weather – the perfect excuse to dive into our Summer Reading Competition.
We have two competitions – one for kids (aged 4+), and
one for adults, each with fun activities to challenge summer minds. Complete some of the reading tasks and other exciting challenges for the chance to win. Open from 1 December – 31 January. Scan the QR code to enter.
Artist: Azzurro
Artist impression: JPE Architects
DEMENTIA, DIGNITY AND THE AGEING JOURNEY
Chances are you know or love someone living with dementia.
Given the skyrocketing numbers of people receiving a diagnosis and the many affected in our City, the need for care and support has never been more important.
The new group at Findon Community Centre, ‘Western Journeys’ connects monthly at Findon Community Centre for people living with Dementia and their Carers to catch up in a safe space, offer support and share their stories.
Co-convener of Western Journeys, Janet Thomas, who also lives with dementia says, ‘A dementia-friendly community is about the people living with dementia, and the people who
support them. We want to share how we can live with dignity, feel valued and retain our sense of purpose.’
The group meets 10am on the second Tuesday of each month, with the last session for 2024 on 10 December. All are welcome.
To further assist the elderly, our Ageing Well team also offers the below services free for Charles Sturt residents:
• Advance Care Directives Western Project: We are providing workshops up until 30 June 2025. These are free workshops that allow older residents to understand what an Advance Care Directive is and how
to complete one. Residents can ring 8408 1529 for more information.
• Companion Animal Project: We coordinate the Companion Animal Project to older residents who are unable to walk their own dogs independently. Residents can ring 8408 1529 for more information.
• Healthy Choices: City of Charles Sturt partners with UniSA to provide a free Healthy Choices program for people 18 and over living with 1 or more chronic health condition. Appointments are Tuesdays at Civic Centre however can also be online or via phone. For more information, residents can phone 0421 694 945.
Dr Janet Thomas & Patrick Frost, Western Journeys – Dementia Friendly Community
THE GREEN ROOM CAPTURE COASTAL CHANGE WITH COASTSNAP
Local resident Ksenja reveals how she’s created her own garden haven at home and why it’s an important part of her daily life.
Ksenja of Croydon has embraced a variety of our greening programs over the years, including our popular 10 Plants for $10 Offer and new Treebate Scheme, to create her own ‘jungle’ sanctuary right here in the suburbs.
“The garden is definitely my favourite room of our house,” she shared.
“These planting schemes have been so successful on our property that our garden is currently a bit of a jungle. We have lots of visiting and nesting bird species, and I try to always keep something in flower to provide for them.
“Each day we celebrate ‘bird o’clock’ when the growing population of New Holland
Honeyeaters have raucous communal baths in our bird baths – it’s such a joy.”
We offer a variety of programs, offers and educational opportunities for residents to get involved in greening activities.
“It’s important to me that my Council shares my environmental concerns, such as climate change and the provision of habitat for local fauna species,” Ksenja said, now into her 11th year as a resident of our City.
“There are so many benefits to increasing the plantings on your own property and I’m grateful for the wonderful initiatives available to assist with that.”
Search ‘Treebate’ or ‘Environment’ on our website to help start your own journey.
Our beautiful beaches are constantly changing and evolving.
You can help track these changes along our coastline as part of an innovative citizen science project called CoastSnap.
CoastSnap stations are located at Grange Jetty, Henley Jetty, Point Malcolm Beach Access Ramp and West Beach.
Each station features a QR Code and a cradle to place your phone to ensure every photo is captured from the same position, angle and height. Your photos will help monitor the ongoing changes to our beaches and assist both community and
scientists to understand how our coastline is impacted by seasons, storms, sea levels, human activities and other factors.
CoastSnap then collate all uploaded photos each quarter into a timelapse video to illustrate these changes over time.
It’s easy to participatesimply scan the QR Code at a CoastSnap station, snap a picture and upload it to the CoastSnap website.
Head to our website to learn more and find your nearest CoastSnap station.
www.charlessturt. sa.gov.au/CoastSnap
MAINTAINING OUR VERGES
With over 52,000 verges/ nature strips across our City, we help maintain the verges for the safety of our community.
We service them 5 times throughout the year (December - August every 12 weeks, SeptemberNovember every 6 weeks).
Want to know when we are in your neighbourhood
ROCKIN’ AROUND OUR CITY
In case you missed it, we’re really into the Christmas spirit
DECK THE HALLS
Did you know your local community centre, library and community hall have a range of spaces for hire, to suit your group, program or event. Take a look at just some events Kilkenny Community Hall hosts.
On Monday evenings you can try your hand at Tae Kwon Do or discover the Punjabi Language and Music on Tuesdays.
SHOULDA PUT A WREATH ON IT
Accompanied with Christmasthemed lighting through the months of November and December, our beautiful Hall adorns its idyllic Christmas makeover ahead of the big day.
next? Check out the verge management schedule on our website.
Become a verge hero. Want to manage your verge? Contact us to add your address to our Do Not Mow register.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/ verges
Fortnightly on a Wednesday you can learn the art of Floral Arranging, and on the alternate Wednesday you can delve into the relaxing benefits of Meditation and Breathwork.
Not so relaxing perhaps but equally exciting is the Woodville Concert Band on a Thursday night.
Check out the space that’s right for your group or program.
www.spacetoco.com
In November we also celebrated 50 years since Woodville Town Hall closed its doors as a mainstream theatre (after it originally opened in 1927) with a retro movie night - and the magic lives proudly on.
DRIVING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
We extend our sincere gratitude to those who were able to donate to the Foodbank Christmas Drive held again this year.
Thank you for embracing the true meaning of Christmas by supporting those who truly need it.
Buddy loves to explore
Buddy loves exploring the backyard and sniffing around. His favourite game is to find treats or toys hidden by his family. Exploring with Buddy and letting him sniff is a great way to spend time with him and to meet his needs as a dog.
Scan the QR code for more information on keeping kids and dogs safe:
Pets of Charles Sturt
Illustrated by Puppy Partners
Buddy is the 4th most popular dog name in the City of Charles Sturt in 2024
AROUND OUR CITY
BROMPTON SPRING FAIR
The Brompton Spring Fair was a fantastic day filled with live music, plant and preserve sales, wood oven pizzas, baked goods, kids’ activities, workshops, and more. We look forward to doing it all again next year.
DOGGY DAY AT THE BEACH
Another wonderful Doggy Day at the Beach has come and gone. The weather was perfect, and we loved meeting everyone and their four-legged friends.
WEST FEST
West Fest was a huge success, featuring over 50 beers across three venues: Bowden Brewery, Shapeshifter, and Big Shed. The day included live music throughout and delicious bites from many local businesses.
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
STAY CONNECTED WITH THE WEST LAKES CURRENT AFFAIRS GROUP
Join our friendly and welcoming group of women every Wednesday morning from 9:30 to 11:30. We enjoy engaging with guest speakers, learning about our community, sharing new experiences, and going on excursions and group meals. Our meetings are held at Club West Lakes, conveniently located near West Lakes Shore Primary School, off Bartley Terrace and Varram Way.
For more information, please contact Jacky at 8449 2671.
WEST BEACH PARKRUN
West Beach parkrun is a free, fun, and friendly 5km community event held every Saturday at 8:00 am. Whether you prefer walking, jogging, running, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, everyone is welcome to join in. Participation is free, but make sure to register before your first visit and bring a scannable copy of your barcode to receive your time.
Come along and enjoy it at your own pace. West Beach parkrun is run entirely by volunteers, so if you’d like to help, email us at westbeach@parkrun.com.
Location: Harold and Cynthia Anderson Reserve on Seaview Road, West Beach SA 5024.
JOIN THE BOLIVIA CARD GAME GROUP
Looking to meet new people, socialise, and have fun? The Bolivia Card Game Group offers the perfect chance to enjoy a few rounds with others in your community. Come along to the Cheltenham Community Centre for some friendly competition and great company!
Time: Fridays, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Cost: $2 per person
NEIGHBOURHOOD CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Friday 6 December 6.00-8.00pm
Park Street North, near the Woodville Park Station.
This year Neighbourhood Watch Area 257, the Woodville Greening Group, our local State Emergency Service Unit and local businesses are again arranging a Neighbourhood Christmas Celebration. Join with your neighbours and enjoy market stalls, live music, information tables, food and drinks for sale, a sausage sizzle, chalk art and a chance to meet Father Christmas.
For further information contact NHoodWatch257@gmail.com
MINI IVY ART SESSIONS
We’re thrilled to welcome you to the Mini Ivy Art Sessions for your free trial. Get ready to ignite your child’s imagination and creativity through the magic of art. Book your tickets at: https://calendly.com/ miniivyart/woodville-park-free-trial-1
Time: Weekdays, 10:00am – 11:00am
Cost: Free for trial period
66 Findon Road, Woodville Park
ALWAYS WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS
Over 50 and not working full time? U3A Charles Sturt is your local University of the Third Age, offering you the chance to make new friends and learn new things. Join us on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at Fulham Uniting Church, Madeline Crescent, Fulham Gardens for weekly guest speaker presentations and special interest groups, and on Thursday mornings at the Ngutungka West Lakes Library for Circle Dancing. There are also regular outings to places of interest and Coffee and Chat get-togethers.
For further information, visit our website www.u3acharlessturt.com, or phone Colin Levy on 0402 063 994.
Does your local community group or not-for-profit organisation have something to share with the City of Charles Sturt community?
Let us know before 22 January and we could include it in the next edition of Kaleidoscope, landing in letterboxes in March 2025. Your community group, event or not-for-profit organisation must be located in the City of Charles Sturt.
Please email us at marketing@charlessturt.sa.gov.au with the subject “Kaleidoscope Community Noticeboard”.