KALEIDOSCOPE

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As we come to the end of another year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what we’ve achieved together and to look forward to what’s ahead.
Across our City, there have been so many moments that capture what makes our community special. We’ve continued to improve our neighbourhoods through projects that make our spaces greener and more welcoming, from new public art and open space upgrades to essential infrastructure works and small improvements that make a big difference every day.
This summer, we’ll celebrate a first for our City as we host the Santos Tour Down Under, with the Ziptrak® Men’s Stage 3 Henley Beach to Nairne setting off from Henley Square on Friday 23 January 2026. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our stunning coastline, support local businesses, and share the energy of our City with visitors from across Australia and beyond.
We’ve also taken important steps to strengthen connection and inclusion. This includes joining the Welcoming Cities network and improving access along our beaches, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy our coastline. Our ‘Give the Gift of Reading’ book donation drive and Christmas Food Drive for Foodbank SA reminds us to pause and reflect on the spirit of Christmas and the importance of supporting others at this time of year. You can learn more on page 6 about how to get involved.
As the festive season approaches, I hope you take time to relax and enjoy everything our City has to offer. The Christmas lights are always a family favourite, and our What’s On page is filled with great events to explore. This is a time to connect with one another and celebrate what makes our City so vibrant and welcoming.
Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and safe festive season and I look forward to all that 2026 will bring.
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
The holiday season is just around the corner! Here’s a handy guide to our adjusted hours over the festive period.
Closed from 3pm Wednesday 24 December 2025, reopening 8:30am Monday 5 January 2026. No front counter services during closure.
Customer Contact Centre will operate during non-public holidays for urgent support between 9am-5pm. On Wednesday 31 December the Customer Contact Centre will close early at 3pm.
Emergency After Hours service will remain open 24/7.
The Beverley Recycling and Waste Centre will close at 2pm on Wednesday 24 December 2025 and reopen on Saturday 27 December.
It will also close at 3pm on Wednesday 31 December, reopening on Friday 2 January 2026.
The centre will operate normal hours on non-public holidays.
All library branches will close at 3pm on Wednesday 24 December 2025.
Findon, Ngutungka Henley, and Ngutungka West Lakes will reopen on Saturday 27 December.
Civic and Hindmarsh Libraries will reopen on Friday 2 January 2026.
Libraries will be closed on Thursday 1 January 2026 for New Year’s Day.
The Mobile Library will close on Monday 15 December and will resume aged care visits from Friday 2 January, with full services returning on Monday 5 January 2026.
Community programs will finish on Friday 12 December 2025.
Centres will close from Friday 19 December, reopening on Monday 5 January 2026.
Programs will resume in mid-January, with centres closed on public holidays.
19 on Green will be open 10am–3pm, except on public holidays.
Regular hirers will continue to have access during the closure, except on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
There will be no bin collection on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day. Collections shift as follows:
• Thursday 25 December moved to Friday 26 December 2025
• Friday 26 December moved to Saturday 27 December 2025
• Thursday 1 January will be moved to Friday 2 January 2026
• Friday 2 January will be moved to Saturday 3 January 2026

Henley Square will come alive to celebrate the Santos Tour Down Under on our streets for the first time in our City’s history.

We’ll host Ziptrak® Men’s Stage 3: Henley Beach to Nairne on Friday 23 January 2026 as a key part of the biggest cycling event in the southern hemisphere.
The event will begin at Henley Square, showcasing our vibrant City and coastline to national and international audiences.
Feel the excitement as world-class cyclists race along our beautiful coastline, surrounded by live entertainment, family fun, and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Adelaide Epic Ride will also begin at Henley Square prior to the Men’s stage, enabling amateur cyclists to test themselves on the same course as the Santos Tour Down Under peloton.
With a range of activities spread across Henley Square and the Plaza, there will be something for everyone.
Activities include:
• Drop-in crafts, activities and experiences from Charles Sturt Libraries
• A pop-up play experience by Climbing Tree
• DJ Lewis Brideson
• Expanded outdoor dining opportunities, offers and activations from local businesses
• Stalls from Henley Surf Life Saving Club and Gelista Gelati
• Pop-up pilates thanks to Studio Spring
• Studio Spring Yoga
Activations begin from 9am with the main race starting at 11:10am.
To ensure the safety of riders, spectators, and the community, several temporary measures will be in place including closures of Seaview Road between North Street and South Street from 2am on the day of the event.
Visit our website for more details including an event map, FAQs and traffic management information.
Are you ready to GO?
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/TDU
EVENT INFORMATION AND SITE MAP


TIME DETAILS
2:00am 6:00am 7:30am 9:00am 11:10am 12:00pm 3:00pm 6:30pm
Road closures begin at Seaview Road, Henley Beach
Adelaide Epic Ride begins – participation ride
Studio Spring Yoga available
Council event activation begins
Ziptrak® Men’s Stage 3: Henley Beach to Nairne Race Start
Council event activation complete
Road closures end at Seaview Road, Henley Beach
Parking re-opens Henley Square northern car park

TOUR DOWN UNDER
ZIPTRAK® MEN’S STAGE 3: HENLEY BEACH TO NAIRNE
9AM-12PM RACE START 11:10AM
As the festive season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community, connection and kindness. This year, we would love to celebrate with you through a range of Christmas programs and activities that bring joy and togetherness in our City.
Children can post their letters to Santa at any of our libraries, community centres, or the immunisation clinic until 14 December. Don’t forget to include a return address so Santa can send a reply from the North Pole.
We’re once again proud to support Foodbank through our annual Christmas Food Drive. Your generous donations help local families in need and can be dropped off at libraries and community centres until 14 December.
We’re also partnering with UnitingSA for the Give the Gift of Reading initiative, collecting new children’s books to share the magic of reading with vulnerable kids. Donations are open until 14 December.
We’re lighting up the City with our Christmas Lights Map!
If your home or street sparkles for the season, share your details so we can feature you on our map and help others find your festive glow. Scan the QR code to submit your display.

From the twinkling lights at Woodville Town Hall to the festive displays across our Civic Centre and local neighbourhoods, the Christmas spirit is shining bright throughout our City.
We wish you and your loved ones a joyful, safe and relaxing Christmas and New Year.
To find out how you can get involved or donate, and to explore what’s happening near you this festive season, visit: charlessturt.sa.gov.au/christmas
Join Australia’s biggest library reading challenge from 1 December to 31 January. As part of the ‘Big Summer Read’, kids and teens (0–18) can read five books or for five days to win prizes. Sign up, log your reads, and enjoy summer reading fun. Don’t miss out - start today. charlessturt.sa.gov.au/ big-summer-read
We’ve partnered with Bike SA to offer free bike hire at Ngutungka Henley, adding to our free bike hire available at Hindmarsh Library. Helmets and locks are provided as part of the hire, if required. A valid photo ID with proof of address must be presented. Borrow a bike and explore the wonderful places in our City. charlessturt.sa.gov.au/bike_hire
Recycle old medical X-rays for free at some of our libraries and community centres. We now have X-Ray Bays at Woodville (Civic) Library, Ngutungka West Lakes, Ngutungka Henley, and Bower Cottages Community Centre. These join existing X-Ray recycle bins at Hindmarsh Library and 19 on Green Community Centre.
This service, delivered in partnership with Ecocycle and Sustainable West, recovers silver and plastic while keeping waste out of landfill. charlessturt.sa.gov.au/x-ray-bays


Grab a controller at Findon Library, Ngutungka Henley, or Ngutungka West Lakes and enjoy Nintendo Switch favourites like Mario Kart, Smash Bros, and more. No console? Borrow a Nintendo Switch Lite from our Library of Things. Plus, check out games for Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PlayStation 4 & 5 - borrow up to two for two weeks. charlessturt.sa.gov.au/videogames
Enjoy free or low-cost creative activities for kids at our libraries and community centres this December and January. Plus, don’t miss the Scavenger Hunt at all libraries! charlessturt.sa.gov.au/schoolholidays

We are proud to announce that we have officially joined the Welcoming Cities network, a national initiative dedicated to supporting local governments in building inclusive, connected, and resilient communities.
Joining Welcoming Cities is a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to fostering a City where everyone feels respected, valued, and a true sense of belonging, no matter their background or where they come from.
As part of this exciting new chapter, we will be implementing initiatives that celebrate our rich cultural diversity and promote social connection. One of the key highlights will be our active

participation in Welcoming Week, a global celebration that brings communities together to recognise the importance of inclusion. Through community events, we’ll provide opportunities for residents to connect across cultures and generations.
During Welcoming Week 2026, residents will be invited to connect, share stories, and celebrate the rich multicultural fabric that makes Charles Sturt unique.
We look forward to continuing our journey as a Welcoming City and working alongside our diverse community to build a future where everyone feels at home.
For more information about the Welcoming Cities program, visit welcomingcities.org.au
Accessible beach facilities are available this summer, making it easier for everyone to enjoy our beautiful coastline.
At Henley Beach, you’ll find beach access mats, ramps, accessible car parks, Changing Places facilities, and hireable beach wheelchairs and walkers. Semaphore Park beach also features a beach ramp and mat to support easier access.
These seasonal facilities make it simpler for people with disabilities, older adults and carers to enjoy a day by the sea. Whether you’re rolling, strolling or lending a hand, our beaches are ready to welcome everyone.
To help you plan your next visit, explore the new Accessible Beaches Map.
This handy resource shows where to find access mats and ramps, accessible parking, beach wheelchair and walker hire, and Changing Places facilities.
A new Changing Places facility will open in March 2026 at the Semaphore Surf Lifesaving Club at Point Malcolm Reserve, further improving accessibility in the area. Please note: Changing Places facilities require a MLAK key for access.
This initiative supports our commitment to creating inclusive public spaces, so no one misses out on enjoying our local beaches.
For more information and to view the Accessible Beaches Map, scan the QR code.

The festive season doesn’t have to mean overflowing bins. A few simple changes can make a big difference, saving you money and helping the planet.
Plan ahead: Buy only what you need and share leftovers with guests.
Wrap smart: Reuse paper, ribbons and gift bags next year.
Give differently: Choose experiences, plants or charitable donations.
Compost right: Pop food scraps and compostable plates or cutlery into your green bin.
The smallest of steps add up. Let’s waste less this season.
Did you know even “flat” batteries can start fires when crushed in waste trucks or recycling facilities? Battery fires are one of the biggest risks in waste management, especially during fire season.
Remember if it can be recharged, it has a battery inside. This means phones, vapes and toys to drills, scooters and vacuum cleaners. When thrown in the bin, these batteries can ignite and cause serious damage.
The right way to recycle?
Drop loose or embedded batteries at your nearest B-Cycle collection point. For City of Charles Sturt residents, the closest location is the Beverley Recycling and Waste Centre, 2–6 Toogood Avenue, Beverley.
You can also recycle household batteries at all Charles Sturt Libraries and some community centres: charlessturt.sa.gov.au/recyclingbatteries-and-mobile-phones
Our latest Annual Report is now available. Each year, we publish the report to share our activities, achievements, full financial statements and operations. It’s a snapshot of how we’re delivering on our Community Vision, supporting local projects, services and sustainability initiatives that make our City a great place to live. Read it online or view a copy at the Civic Centre.
charlessturt.sa.gov.au/ annualreport
You may have seen that we have a temporary parking compound on Toogood Reserve in Beverley for our Council fleet while our Beverley Depot is demolished. Plans for a new depot are underway and we look forward to sharing more in the future.
Apply for up to $3,000 to support a project or activity that makes a positive difference in your community.
If you’re an individual or part of a notfor-profit or community group within our City, you can apply for funding to help deliver local programs, activities or minor equipment purchases that align with our community priorities.
Applications are simple and can be completed online and assessed
within four weeks. The program is now open through to early May, subject to available funds. Get in early to avoid missing out.
For more information, visit charlessturt.sa.gov.au/dwa or contact the DWA Program Administrator on 8408 1111.
THE IDEA OF NORTH 12 December 2025

Vocal harmony and festivity – a match made in heavens. Come and hear the quintet you love with the added magic of a choir soaring above.
THE JURY EXPERIENCE
Multiple Dates including 19 Dec 2025, 10 + 24 Jan, 7 Feb 2026

You’ve been called for Jury Duty. Step into a thrilling courtroom drama where the audience is the jury. Listen to testimonies, analyse evidence, and ultimately decide... guilt or not guilty?
FRINGE HUB 2026
20 February – 23 March 2026

After the success of our 2025 Fringe Hub featuring The 60 Four, Gill Hicks, Adelaide International Comedy Gala, Prinnie Stevens, The Necks and much more, we’re back in 2026 with more comedy, music, theatre, dance, and more - and this time with a whole new Childrens & Families program.
The full program is now available on our website – book in early, you don’t want to miss out!
Glitter Pines – An Immersive
Digital Christmas Experience
6-21 December 2025
Sunjive Studios – 3 Butler Drive Hendon Buy tickets - glitterpines.com.au
Warm-up Carnival Bloco do Segura Rápido
Pop-up Brazilian carnival parade 13 December 2025 from 4pm
Henley Square Gazebo
Christmas Twilight Markets 19 December 2025 from 4pm-10pm Bowden Village Reserve, Fourth Street Bowden
St Clair Carols by Candlelight 20 December 2025
Markets & Food Stalls from 5pm Carols from 7:30pm Hill Smith Reserve, St Clair
Greek Festival (Blessing of the Waters) - Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia 11 January 2026
Henley Beach Foreshore
Summertime Motor Meet - Horsepower Crew 17 January 2026
MTA Training and Employment Centre, 3 Frederick Road, Royal Park horsepowercrew.com/events
2026 Rowing South Australia
State Championships
6-8 February 2026
West Lakes rowingsa.asn.au

Scan for more events in our City.
Sign up to the Woodville Town Hall newsletter and stay in the loop.
Feel the magic, laughter and wonder of the Adelaide Fringe – right here in your own backyard.
Hitting our suburbs this February, check out the many great events held at locations across our City. Find a show to delight and entertain you at some of our amazing local venues including Holden Street Theatre, The Gov and Plant 4 plus our own Woodville Town Hall.
Adelaide Fringe 20 February –22 March 2026 adelaidefringe.com.au


Mel Buttle - Taking My Sunglasses Off To Hear You
Better | 28 February 2026
This is a return of Mel Buttle’s 2025 Adelaide Fringe show for one night only!
“Buttle’s dry critique of the perils of life has the audience in hysterics.” ★★★★ The Age
Stephen K Amos: Now We’re Talking | 12 March 2026
Internationally acclaimed comedian Stephen K Amos (UK) returns to Australia with a brand-new show Now We’re Talking.
“Unashamedly feel-good entertainment” The Evening Standard


Saksham Magical Madness | 21 & 22 February 2026
Get ready for a high-energy magic show packed with levitations, teleportation, and mind reading. Seen on Australia’s Got Talent and followed by over 6 million YouTube fans worldwide!
“Saksham has a refreshing charm, with an easy-going style” ★★★★★ Weekend Notes Magazine
FoRT | 21 February – 8 March 2026
A magical circus adventure with everyday objects for playful young people and their families. Ridiculous clowning, spectacular acrobatics and beautiful imagery.
★★★★★ Kids in Adelaide
Explore the full Fringe Hub program at woodvilletownhall.com.au



Staying strong, active and independent as we age is something worth celebrating.
The AVOID Frailty program, proudly supported by the City of Charles Sturt, helps local residents learn how to maintain mobility and prevent frailty through simple, everyday actions.
As the study enters its final phase, we thank all participants who contributed to this important research. In mid-December, participants will come together to share and celebrate the findings, highlighting the impact of their involvement.
Professor Renuka Visvanathan said, “I am amazed by the local support for this project. Older adults are keen to be actively involved in improving their own health to age well. Our study will be relevant to efforts emerging globally.”
For more information about the AVOID Frailty program, visit adelaide.edu.au
We’d love to hear how you stay strong, connected and active in our community. Visit yoursaycharlessturt.com.au/ our-stories-our-strengths to share your story by 12 January 2026 and go in the draw to win a $50 Drakes voucher.

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. Free coffee and a lunchtime sausage sizzle 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.
Event details: Wednesday 25 March 2026
Adelaide Entertainment Centre

Across our City, local business owners are finding practical ways to make their operations more sustainable, from reducing waste to rethinking energy use. Two local favourites are showing how small changes can make a real difference.

If you’ve visited Meals & Memories, you’ll know it’s more than a food truck, it’s a place where good food and community meet. Owner Hamed recently introduced a portable solar panel system to power the truck, replacing traditional generators. The change means less noise, lower emissions, and a more efficient setup, all while keeping the focus on what matters most, great Persian food and friendly service.

At Two Sisters Café, sustainability now starts with the morning coffee. The team has installed a milk tap system from the Fleurieu Milk Company, which lets them serve fresh milk straight from reusable containers.
This simple change has helped reduce plastic waste and support a local South Australian producer, two wins for a café that’s always looking for ways to do things better.
milk tap refill stations have been supported by the City of Charles Sturt across the City.
These projects were supported through the Green Business stream of the Business Support Program, which helps local businesses explore practical sustainability ideas. From energy efficiency to waste reduction, the program encourages creative ways to reduce environmental impact.
Find out more about Green Business here: charlessturt.sa.gov.au/businessgrants/green-business


Take it slow and explore the streets dotted with bold public art and murals that bring our City to life:
• Crawford Lane, Hindmarsh (artist Sam Songailo)
• Coglin Street, Brompton (artist Senman Creations)
• Port Road/Queen Street, Hindmarsh (artist Jack Fran and Leah Grant)
• Park Terrace/Hawker Street Mural, Ovingham (artist Nicky Create)

5 2

1 3
7 AM – MORNING
Wrap up your day back at Henley Square. Sit back and take in a popular Adelaide sunset as you tuck into dinner at one of the local eateries, and finish with a sweet treat.
4
PM – PICNIC AT
Pick up lunch from Plant 4 Bowden or pack your own picnic and settle in at Bowden Village Reserve. The kids can enjoy the playground and open lawns perfect for a kick of the ball.

Start your day at Breakout Creek / Purruna Pari. Walk, ride, or run along the River Torrens Linear Park Trail, following the water through shady gums, bird-filled wetlands, and peaceful pockets of green.
You’ll finish your journey in the heart of Hindmarsh, just in time for coffee!
Side stop: Reward yourself with a freshly brewed cup from Pony and Cole, Ridleyton.

2 PM –LEARN + PLAY
Head over to Ngutungka West Lakes. Get stuck into a good read, borrow an audiobook, or join an afternoon program. Got the kids with you? Help them crack the in-library puzzle or borrow a game to play!






A beautiful new bird bath was installed at MJ McInerney Reserve, West Croydon. We partnered with the Lions Club of Charles Sturt who contributed generously with $10,000 to support local wildlife.
Another successful Doggy Day at the Beach brought tails and smiles to Henley Square! This much-loved community event featured plenty of pooches, fun market stalls and expert training tips.
Another fantastic Annual Spring Fair at Brompton Community Garden and 19 on Green saw nearly 1,000 people come together to celebrate. The community enjoyed delicious food, stalls and garden fun.
The Henley & Grange Historical Society’s new journal will be available to buy at the Henley Square Market on Sunday 21 December, packed with captivating local stories and perfect as a Christmas gift. Try their free self-guided mobile walking tours, a great way to explore Henley and Grange. Just download the free H&GHS app and start your journey through history. For more details email Ann Mitchell at info@ henleyandgrangehistory.org.au or visit henleyandgrangehistory.org.au
Feeling a bit lonely or just looking to meet new friends? Join the Woodville Over 50s Bowling Club for gentle exercise, friendly chats, and a warm cup of coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. Meet at St Margaret’s Anglican Church on Mondays from 12.30pm to 2.30pm and Wednesdays from 1pm to 3pm. For more details email Stanka Sarunic at stankasarunic@bigpond.com or call Stanka on 8347 3251.
The club takes a short break over the holidays, closing from 15 December to 15 January.
Adelaide Pets Alive! is a new non-profit based in Grange, helping rehome pets with care and compassion. Through their Community Kitten Program, vulnerable kittens find foster homes to grow and socialise. Their Mum Cat Program also offers free desexing for owned cats when kittens are surrendered into care. Learn more or get involved at adelaidepetsalive.org.au/aboutus
Looking to stay informed and engaged in a friendly, welcoming environment? Join our vibrant group of women every Wednesday from 9.30am to 11.30am during school terms at Club West Lakes, near West Lakes Shore Primary School. We enjoy inspiring guest speakers, learning about our community, sharing new experiences, excursions and social outings. For more information call Jacky on 8449 2671.
Since opening in November 2021, the Frederick Miller Community Garden in Semaphore Park has blossomed into a welcoming green space between Third and Fourth Avenues.
With support from the City of Charles Sturt and a Green Adelaide grant, the once dusty reserve has been transformed into a vibrant hub — featuring a native garden, a members’ orchard, communal planting beds, and a popular community library.
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy organically grown produce, and new members are always welcome — whether you’d like to garden, connect with others, or simply relax in the space.
For more information, email frederickmillercommunitygarden@ outlook.com, call Steve Belton on 0481 769 935, or visit facebook.com/ Frederickmillercommunitygarden
Looking for fun, fitness and friendship on the water? Adelaide Survivors Abreast promotes breast cancer awareness and welcomes men and women to take part in dragon boat racing, regattas, Masters events and social paddling.
The club trains at the Aquatic Reserve on Bower Road – Tuesdays at 10am and Saturdays at 9:15am, followed by coffee nearby. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just curious to try something new, everyone is welcome.
For more information, contact Mary-Ann on 0432 068 180 or email asadragonboats@gmail.com
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 30 January and we could include it in the next edition of Kaleidoscope, landing in letterboxes in March 2026. 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’.