KALEIDOSCOPE
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Our City is full of activities and new things to enjoy as we step into spring. It’s a time to reflect on what we’ve achieved together and look ahead to what’s next.
Sidney, whose smile lights up our front cover, has a story that truly captures the spirit of our City and our community. At 97 years young, he’s living proof that staying active, connected and supported makes a world of difference. Through our Ageing Well service, Sidney continues to volunteer, bake, and has even joined a men’s cooking group, reminding us there are always opportunities to connect with your local community. I encourage you to read his story. I know you’ll find it as heartwarming as I did.
We’ve been hard at work improving our neighbourhoods. Recent upgrades at Gleneagles Reserve, Hawker Street, and the Linear Park Bank & Scour Protection Project make our City safer, greener and more welcoming. These upgrades protect our community from urban heat island effects, and improve the places we share.
We are also facing some challenges together. The algal bloom along our coastline has had a significant impact on us, our coast, and our marine life. While the State Government is leading the response, our teams continue daily monitoring and clean-up efforts to help keep residents and visitors safe on our beaches. You can learn more on page 6.
Looking ahead, I’m delighted that we will host the Santos Tour Down Under for the first time. The Ziptrak® Men’s Stage 3 will set off from Henley Square on Friday 23 January 2026. This will be a wonderful opportunity to showcase and share our vibrant City to an international audience.
Our Customer Portal also continues to grow, now making it easier than ever to manage your rates and payments online, anytime. The new functionality gives residents a simple and secure way to view balances, set up payment plans, and keep track of notices in one place.
This edition also features updates on our playground renewals, new grant opportunities, and the many events happening across our City, from Doggy Day at the Beach to Sustainability Saturdays.
I encourage you to get involved, take part, and have your say on the projects and programs that matter most to you. I look forward to seeing you out and about, making the most of all that spring and our wonderful City has to offer.
Cover: Sidney Donnellan and Ageing Well team member, Linda Wood.
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 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
Mayor Angela Evans
THRIVING IN LATER LIFE
Living in the City of Charles Sturt, 97-year-old Sidney’s days are
anything but quiet.
He volunteers every Tuesday restoring wheelchairs for people in need, bakes his own bread, creates sparkling soda stream concoctions, and attends a regular men’s cooking group.
Sidney has contributed over 35 years of community service within our City, from toy-making with Rotary to volunteering with The Friends of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital. In recognition of his dedication, Sidney was nominated for South Australian Volunteer of the Year in 2024.
Ask him how he got here, and he’ll tell you: “I’ve had good people looking after me. That’s a big help. And I’ve kept active.”
Part of the reason he’s so active and well-looked after is thanks to our Ageing Well Service.
Through the service, which is partially funded through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), Sidney receives support from Linda, his Home Support Officer. Linda visits every fortnight for social outings like grocery shopping and a good chat. The tailored shopping assistance offered through Ageing Well helps Sidney with jobs such as paying bills, visiting the chemist, and packing his groceries, all with a friendly face by his side.
“Sid is such a gentleman, and is always full of stories,” Linda says. Their catchups are much more than check-ins. In fact, stopping to enjoy a cuppa together is an important part of the Shopping Assistance Service, which Sid never misses.
Linda says they’ve built a lovely rapport, and their chats are always full of laughter.
With the support of the Ageing Well team, Sidney’s never had to do it all on his own, enabling him to enjoy a lifestyle that isn’t just active.... it’s inspiring.
Our Ageing Well service also offers support ranging from transport to gardening, and social opportunities.
If you’ve ever thought it’s too late to get involved, let Sidney’s story be your reminder – it’s never too late to make a difference. Sometimes, asking for help is the first step.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/ageing-well
IMPROVEMENTS AROUND OUR CITY
Here’s a look at the projects we’ve recently completed to make our City safer, greener and more welcoming.
GLENEAGLES RESERVE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT UPGRADE
The stormwater system at Gleneagles Reserve is now complete. The key feature of the project is a basin and pump system that holds stormwater following heavy rain. The basin can hold up to 8 million litres of water. To put that into perspective, that is enough to fill around 4 million two litre Coke bottles.
By slowing down the flow and safely holding stormwater, the system reduces the risk of flooding on nearby streets and protects local homes, parks and roads during major storms.
This project was jointly funded by the City of Charles Sturt, Stormwater Management Authority (Government of South Australia) and Disaster Ready Fund (Australian Government).
RIVER TORRENS LINEAR PARK BANK & SCOUR PROTECTION PROJECT
The River Torrens Linear Park is a fantastic place for walking, cycling and enjoying nature in our City. Over time, parts of the northern path between Kooralla Grove and Findon Road were damaged by erosion, making it less safe. These sections have now been repaired, meaning the community can once again enjoy the trail with confidence.
This project was jointly funded by, City of Charles Sturt, Green Adelaide and DEW.
HAWKER STREET (BETWEEN BLIGHT STREET AND CHIEF STREET)
Hawker Street has had a big transformation, with works now complete after a 12-month project. The upgrade has delivered a smoother road surface, better stormwater drainage, new pedestrian crossings, and fresh footpaths, all designed to make the street safer and easier to use. The improvements include new landscaping and greenery, creating a brighter and more welcoming space for everyone who lives, works or travels along Hawker Street.
Hawker Street received funding from the Special Local Roads Program (SLRP) administered by the State Government.
The smoking ceremony was conducted by Alex Agius-Bersee.
Completion of project
CARING FOR OUR COAST
Like our community, we are devastated about the loss of marine life and the impact of the algal bloom affecting our coast.
Our 12 kilometres of coastline is home to some of the most popular beaches in the state.
The State Government and its agencies are leading the response to the algal bloom, and we are supporting their efforts. We welcome the $28 million algal bloom funding package which will aid research, clean-up efforts, communications, and provide business and industry support to those impacted.
Our teams continue to monitor and clean up our coastline daily. Many of our employees who maintain our beaches are also residents of our City and share their care and concern for our coast.
HENLEY HOSTING SANTOS TOUR DOWN UNDER
The algal bloom has affected about 400 species of fish and marine animals with an average of approximately 200kgs of deceased marine life removed from our shoreline each week.
More than 100 signs have been installed along our coast with key information to keep our community and visitors informed. Our staff across libraries and community centres are also on hand to support these conversations. The safety of our community remains our priority.
Please visit the State Government’s dedicated algal bloom website for the latest information, advice and resources. algalbloom.sa.gov.au
We are excited to officially host the Santos Tour Down Under for the very first time.
This summer, Henley Square will host the start of the 140 kilometre Ziptrak® Men’s Stage 3: Henley Beach to Nairne, on Friday 23 January 2026.
The Santos Tour Down Under is the biggest cycling race in the southern hemisphere and provides a great opportunity to share and showcase our vibrant City to national and international audiences.
We’ll have a range of familyfriendly activities and community activations on offer including additional outdoor dining opportunities to mark the event for residents and visitors alike.
We are proactively working with local businesses and suppliers to engage and support them as part of the event.
Santos Tour Down Under Race Director Stuart O’Grady said Henley Beach would be a fantastic addition to the calendar.
“I’m really excited about this stage with two locations that are first-time hosts with Henley Beach and Nairne,” O’Grady said.
“Henley has been my target for quite a few years, it will be a cracking start location showing off the beauty of our coastline.”
A stage map is available online. Stay tuned to our website and social media for more details.
Image credit: South Australian Tourism Commission
WHAT’S ON
Upcoming Events
XUEFEI YANG
16 October 2025
One of the world’s finest classical guitarists, Xuefei Yang presents a rich and varied program spanning continents and cultures.
AN EVENING WITH COWBOY JUNKIES
20 November 2025
Canadian alt country/blues/ folk rock band Cowboy Junkies celebrate 40 years! Cowboy Junkies will be performing a career-spanning show from The Trinity Session to their recent album.
VIVA BRAZIL!
22 November 2025
A one-night-only gala dinner and theatrical show where cabaret meets carnival in a dazzling celebration of Brazilian culture. Expect fine dining, glamorous performances, and a bold, highenergy spectacle filled with music, dance, and colour.
THE IDEA OF NORTH 12 December 2025
Vocal harmony and festivity – a match made in the heavens. Come and hear the quintet you love with the added magic of a choir soaring above.
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Get the kids moving these school holidays with fun activities at our libraries, community centres and local venues.
Our School Holiday Sports Program is back, offering free activities for all skill levels.
Spots fill fast – book today. charlessturt.sa.gov.au/schoolholidays
SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER
Nature Festival
26 September – 12 October naturefestival.org.au
Community Voices Program
Various dates in September, October, November Across our Community Centres Register via Eventbrite
Doggy Day at the Beach 11 October 2025 11am – 2pm Henley Square charlessturt.sa.gov.au/doggydayatthebeach
Spring Fair
19 October 2025 10am-3pm
Brompton Community Garden and 19 on Green Community Centre facebook.com/19onGreen
YMCA 175 Year Celebration 25 October 2025
10.30am – 12.30pm
St Clair Recreation Centre stclair.ymca.org.au
NOVEMBER
Sustainability Saturdays 22 November 2025
Scan for more events in our City.
Ngutungka West Lakes charlessturt.sa.gov.au/sustainability-saturdays Also on in September and October Visit the website for details
Sign up to the Woodville Town Hall newsletter and stay in the loop.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR LIBRARIES
MAGAZINES ON DEMAND
Read the latest issue of Women’s Day, New Idea, Better Homes & Gardens, Vogue, New Scientist, SA Life and more, for free with BorrowBox. No waitlists, no overdue dates, just instant access on your device with your Charles Sturt Libraries membership.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/digital-library
FREE MUSIC STREAMING
With Freegal, Charles Sturt Library members now get 24/7 streaming access to over 15 million songs, from chart-toppers to hidden gems. Explore popular playlists like Solid Gold Rock, Power Workout and Beachside Jazz and popular albums from Billy Joel to Beyoncé.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/digital-library
DIGITAL ESSENTIALS FOR LIFE
Want to feel more confident using your phone, tablet or computer? Join us for these weekly hands-on digital learning sessions at Ngutungka Henley. Whether you’re new to technology or just want to brush up on the basics, our friendly team will help you.
Mondays 10am – 11am at Ngutungka Henley.
Bookings preferred but not essential.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/digitalessentials
LISTEN TO STORIES OUT LOUD
A weekly storytelling session for adults, led by voice actor and podcaster Ciarán Moffat (pictured) of Reading Companions Australia. Enjoy nostalgic classics, contemporary favourites,
and audience requests in a relaxed, welcoming space. Popular with older adults, people living with dementia, carers, and anyone who enjoys being read to. Includes light refreshments. Fridays 2pm – 3pm (during term time) at Ngutungka West Lakes.
Bookings required.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/listeninglounge
WHAT’S IN A PLAYGROUND RENEWAL?
Playground renewals replace ageing and worn play equipment with new infrastructure that is safe, vibrant, accessible and fun for our community. Our Transforming City
Playgrounds are identified for renewal when they reach the end of their useful life or are no longer safe.
In 2024/25, five playgrounds across our City were renewed: Flinders Park Oval, Thomas Harkness Reserve (Brompton), Ray Street Reserve (Findon), Josiah Mitton Reserve (Brompton), and West Lakes Shore Oval.
As part of these upgrades, we also add greenery to improve natural shade, increase biodiversity and contribute to urban cooling. Make sure to visit soon!
WHICH PLAYGROUNDS WILL BE RENEWED NEXT?
What do you want to see in your local playground? What’s important to you?
Help shape what our playgrounds include/look like. Consultation is now underway on Playground Renewals for 2026/27 in the following locations:
• Caddy Reserve (Frederick Road, Grange)
• Tedder Reserve (Findon Road & Belgrave Avenue, Flinders Park)
• Albert Greenshields Reserve (Torrens Road & Greenshield Place, Ridleyton)
• Inlet Reserve (corner Military Road and Trimmer Parade, Tennyson)
Consultation closes 15 October 2025.
Have your say. Visit yoursaycharlessturt.com.au
Plus look out for our fun Activity Book at our libraries and community centres, for our young playground designers, available during the consultation period.
GET INTO GRANTS
Communities thrive when people are supported to share their ideas, pursue their passions, and care for their home and neighbourhood.
Our diverse range of grants continue to grow. There are now more opportunities than ever before for residents, event organisers, and young achievers to seek support through our various funding programs.
Help us help you to continue to make our City such a special and vibrant place to live, work and play.
EVENT GRANTS AND SPONSORSHIPS
From cultural celebrations to grassroots initiatives, our new Event Grants and Event Sponsorships help bring ideas to life, connect people, celebrate diversity, activate local spaces, and support our City’s economic growth.
Our Event Grants funding offers two streams in three rounds each year:
• The Community Event Fund stream assists established, culturally significant community events which are recognised in our City’s calendar.
• The Event Grants stream is a competitive, open grants opportunity for fresh initiatives that spark creativity, social connection, and pride.
Event Sponsorship funding is available until 30 June 2026 or until funding is exhausted. It supports commercial-style partnerships with high-profile events. The focus is on events that give a strong return on investment and create branding opportunities.
Our Place Making team can guide you through the process, supporting small local activations to large-scale festivals.
placemakers@charlessturt. sa.gov.au
YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT GRANT PROGRAM
We’re supporting our future trailblazers through our new Youth Achievement Grant Program.
This program supports young people 18 and under who excel in sport, culture, STEMAL (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Arts and Language), or community activities, and have been selected to participate in approved competitions or activities at a state, national or international level.
We’ve already had a range of amazing applicants including Sunday Skrabanich, below, who recently accessed the program to represent South Australia in the recent Australian Youth Circuit National Fencing Championships.
Youth Achievement Grant Program funding is available until 30 June 2026 or until funding is exhausted.
ENERGY, HERITAGE AND TREE MAINTENANCE GRANTS PROGRAM
We’re helping our community build more sustainable and climate resilient homes, and nurturing our City’s tree canopy through our Energy, Heritage, and Tree Maintenance Grants program.
Energy and Climate Change Assessments provide eligible residents a tailored report with practical tips to reduce energy use, lower bills, and prepare for climate risks.
Our Heritage Conservation Grant enables eligible homeowners to access expert advice and funding for maintenance and restoration of heritage buildings to help preserve the character of our neighbourhoods.
Tree Maintenance Grants offer financial assistance for the professional care of Significant and Regulated trees to protect, maintain and nurture our City’s urban tree canopy.
Learn more about our range of grants and apply via our website.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/grants
DID YOU KNOW?
PLANNING TO BUILD A NEW HOME?
If your 2025/26 rates show “vacant land”, your footings will be poured during 2025/26, and you plan to live in the home for at least 12 months, you may be eligible for a Residential Construction Rebate.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/
CONCESSIONS FOR COUNCIL RATES
Eligible pensioners, veterans, lowincome earners, unemployed students, and self-funded retirees may qualify for a State Government concession to help pay council rates.
You can receive up to $200 paid directly into your bank account to help with household bills, including council rates.
Apply through the Department for Human Services: concessions.sa.gov.au
More info charlessturt.sa.gov.au/ council-rates
DOG LEASH LAW UPDATE –DAYLIGHT SAVING
From the beginning of Daylight Saving (Saturday 5 October) dogs must be on lead (2 metres or less) on the foreshore (Semaphore Park to West Beach) between 10am and 8pm. This law is effective during the daylight saving period (approximately October to April).
Outside of those times, dogs may be off lead on the foreshore if they are under effective control. Additional rules apply near playgrounds and Plover breeding areas. Visit the website for full details.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/dog-on-andoff-lead-areas
NEW E-SCOOTER LAWS
People aged 16+ can now legally ride e-scooters and other Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) on approved roads and paths across South Australia. SA Police will enforce these laws.
Let’s share the path safely.
To view rules, speed limits and other usage laws, visit the My Licence website.
YOUR SCHOOL HOLIDAY ADVENTURE
Get a spring in your step and explore our City these school holidays!
Try a sport at our School Holiday Sports Program
• Carnegie South Reserve
• Matheson Reserve
• Henley & Grange Memorial Oval
• Blamey Reserve
• Flinders Park Oval
Check out a new park or playground
Get involved in activities and events
• BMX Track at Aquatic Reserve
• Outer Harbor Greenway
• River Torrens Linear Park
Take your bike for a spin
AROUND OUR CITY
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN LIVING ARTISTS (SALA) FESTIVAL
In August, our City came alive with creativity as local spaces showcased art and emerging talent.
My Tree Project launch at Ngutungka Henley.
NAIDOC WEEK 2025
As part of NAIDOC Week, students from Woodville High School and local primary schools joined us in the Council Chambers to celebrate this year’s theme: ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’.
WELLBEING GARDEN MURAL
Allenby Gardens Primary students unveiled their new Wellbeing Garden mural, co-designed with local artist Gen Woods and supported through our City’s Changemaker Program, 19 on Green and Findon Community Centre.
Photos:
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
WEAVING A SAFETY NET OF HOPE
South Australia urgently needs foster carers. Children and young people aged 0–17 who cannot live with their families need safe, nurturing homes and Centacare Foster Care is here to help.
We welcome carers from all walks of life, whether for short-term, long-term, or respite care. Every placement makes a lasting difference.
Visit centacare.org.au/foster-care, call 8159 1400, or visit 413 Grange Road, Seaton.
WOODVILLE SOUTH CRICKET CLUB – BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH CRICKET
Woodville South Cricket Club is seeking new players for our Women’s, Men’s, Juniors, and Masters teams.
Join a proud community club in Adelaide’s western suburbs, where all ages and skill levels are welcome. More than just cricket, we’re a family built on passion, respect, and community spirit. For details, email woodville.south@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/woodvillesouthcricketclub
DISCOVER THE JOY OF MUSIC WITH THE ADELAIDE MUSIC CLUB
Enjoy an evening of music, food, and company at the Adelaide Music Club’s monthly cabaret-style events, running through to December. Featuring talented local, interstate, and international artists, these events are perfect for the 60+ community. Doors open 6pm, with dinner and entertainment from 7pm. Learn more and view dates at adelaidemusicclub.com.au
FREE FUN NIGHT AT WEST LAKES BOWLING CLUB
Thought about giving lawn bowls a go? Come and join our winning team. Perfect for building friendships in a fun and inclusive sport for all. Join us for a free, fun night as an individual or as a team of four.
Wednesday 8 October from 6pm for pregame BBQ before play starts at 7pm.
For more information email westlakesbc@gmail.com or call 0456 743 579. To find more great things happening at West Lakes Bowling Club visit our website westlakesbowlingclub.org.au
LADIES GRANGE PROBUS
Looking to connect with others in your local area? Join us for fun and fellowship with a welcoming group of ladies at the Grange Probus.
A great chance to make new friends, enjoy lively conversations that keep minds sharp, and join a variety of social outings each month. We meet at Fulham Gardens Uniting Church, 16 Madeline Crescent, Fulham Gardens, on the 2nd Monday of each month from 10am – 12pm.
For more information contact Natalie on 0407 619 184, or Trish on 0413 583 756.
NORTH WEST BRANCH – NATIONAL SENIORS AUSTRALIA
Looking to connect with others over 50? Join the North West Branch of National Seniors Australia.
We meet on the 4th Wednesday of each month (except Dec & Jan) at 1.30pm, Lockleys Baptist Church House, 244 Henley Beach Road, Underdale. Enjoy a guest speaker, afternoon tea, and a raffle.
We also hold monthly outings on the 2nd Wednesday – from local lunches to day trips.
For details visit nationalseniors.com.au or email northwestseniorsnsa@gmail.com
Contact: Secretary on 0432 101 372.
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 15 October and we could include it in the next edition of Kaleidoscope, landing in letterboxes in December 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’.