PlayfordNews
Unleashing Fremont Park Shaping Playford’s defence industry Uniting through art
Spring 2023 | FREE
From the Mayor Welcome to the latest edition of Playford News Magazine.
There couldn’t be a better time to reflect on another memorable season in Playford. With the FIFA Women’s World Cup held in Australia during July and August, we celebrated female football with an exciting number of events across our city, giving young people the chance to get involved in this historic event. A personal highlight was welcoming the Panama Women’s National Football Team to Playford, who trained at Ridley Reserve during their World Cup campaign.
With the weather warming up, we naturally look outdoors for things to see and do. We are lucky to have access to so many parks and open spaces in Playford, which means you can always find one close to your front door. One of these parks has just reopened, with the newly upgraded eastern portion of Fremont Park welcoming its first human and furry guests. You can read more about the new dog parks at Fremont Park on page eight.
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The theme of new beginnings continues with a much-anticipated addition to Playford’s Health & Wellbeing Precinct. Healthia a new, integrated residential care service in Elizabeth, has welcomed more than 90 residents and 130 workers.
What truly makes a warm and welcoming place always comes down to its people. I know that every person I meet has a story to share and I’m pleased to say that we have a collection of homegrown stories to share with you – from football heroes to cluey business startups and inspiring young people – who all contribute to our diverse and growing community in positive ways. Mayor Glenn Docherty
Playford News
Contents
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The year ahead
4
Get your free green bin
6
Planting for Playford
7
Unleashing Fremont Park
8
Rink revives memories
10
Golden girls re-invent retirement
12
Shaping the north’s defence industry
15
Elected Member chat
16
Celebrating female football
18
Uniting through art
20
A grandstanding ovation for Kris Grant 22 Our city’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu heavy hitters
24
Business is thriving at Williams Metal Fabrications 26 Youth Action Crew is making a difference
28
Talking positive futures with Adam Ludewig
29
What’s on
30
We would like to acknowledge that the land this magazine is produced on is the traditional land of the Kaurna people, and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country. The City of Playford would also like to pay respects to Elders past, present and emerging. EDITOR Dominic Beaton
PHOTOGRAPHY Cheryl Willsdon Darren Clements Dominic Beaton Keryn Stevens Michael Falkous
CONTRIBUTORS Dominic Beaton Nicole Alberton Shannon Siegele Vesna Thon DESIGN Flux Visual Communication
Do you have a story idea? Let us know at playfordnews@playford.sa.gov.au Information and events in this publication are current at the time of printing. Subsequent changes may occur. playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 3
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Annual Business Pla
The year ahead The 2023/24 AnnualMayor Business Plan From your and Budget (ABP) reflects the unique This year’s Annual Business Plan and landscape Council continues to navigate Budget reflects the unique landscape as a diverse and growing city. Council continues to navigate as a This year we will services diverse andprovide growingthe city. our community expects, while the delivering This year we will provide new infrastructure in growing suburbs services our community expects, and improving our established while delivering new infrastructure suburbs with park upgrades, in growing suburbs and road improving renewals and new footpaths. our established suburbs with park upgrades, road renewals and new Importantly, we have adopted this footpaths. plan after listening to our community. Importantly, we havethat adopted The majority of feedback was this planduring after listening to our community. received consultation was in The majority of feedback that was line with what we already know about received during consultation was what our community wants – improved in line with what we already know about road infrastructure, ongoing city what ourand community wants – improved maintenance a balanced budget – road infrastructure, ongoing city all of which are reflected in this plan. maintenance and a balanced budget – The budget charts a reflected sustainable all of which are in this plan. course for Council in the long term, in The budget charts a sustainable the face of rising costs that are being course for Council in the long term, in experienced partscosts of society. the faceinofallrising that are being We have worked diligently to reduce experienced in all parts of society. the impact of these costs by only We have worked diligently to reduce factoring in inflationary pressures the impact of these costs by only in inflationary pressures wherefactoring absolutely necessary, helping to where helping minimise theabsolutely impact fornecessary, our ratepayers. to minimise the impact for our For more information about the 2023/24 ratepayers. Annual Business Plan & Budget visit A 7.91 per cent increase in rate Playford.sa.gov.au/annualbusinessplan revenue for the year enables us to continue to deliver our existing services, introduce new services and projects and maintain financial sustainability. 4 | playford.sa.gov.au
Mayor Glenn Docherty
New infrastructure in 20 Stormwater improvements on Queen and Jane Streets, Smithfield
1000 metres of new footpaths
ol
o ch
S
Mark Oliphant College Kiss & Drop zone
Playford News
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an & Budget Summary 2023/24 Your services at a glance See how we allocate every $100 of rates
023/24 Pedestrian crossing on Woodford Road, Elizabeth
$16
Waste and recycling collection including red, yellow and green bins
$7
Public health, regulatory and environment services that help keep our community safe
Redevelopment of Kalara Reserve, Davoren Park
$63
City maintenance like verge mowing, tree planting and street cleaning
$14
Community facilities and programs, events and business support
PN Playford News Food scraps can go in kitchen caddy To grow your garden and new fruit & vegetable
You can buy Peats Soils compost from your local garden shop
Peats Soils screens the compost and has it ready for purchase as soil, mulch and compost
And then into your green organics bin for collection
NAWMA trucks take the contents to the waste transfer station in Edinburgh
Peats Soils picks up material from NAWMA shed and composts it for 10 weeks
Get your free green bin After listening to community requests, Council has introduced a free, opt-in green bin service.
If you don’t have a green bin, you can now access one for free and have it collected as part of your regular kerbside collection service. Having a green bin is an easy way of disposing of food scraps, garden waste and other organic materials, while looking after the environment at the same time.
Organic matter, like kitchen scraps and garden cuttings, makes up a significant proportion of waste that goes to landfill. By putting this type of waste in a green bin, it is diverted away from landfill and into other uses, like processing for compost or mulch. 6 | playford.sa.gov.au
Households can select either a 140L or 240L green bin which will be delivered with a kitchen caddy and roll of compostable bags.
The green bin can be used for everything from banana peels to eggs shells, lawn clippings to weeds – if it came from something that grows it goes in the green bin! To get your free green bin, contact NAWMA via nawma.sa.gov.au or 8259 2100.
Playford News
Planting for Playford Trees play a big role in creating atmosphere and beauty in our cities and suburbs. Not only do trees look good, but they give us oxygen, provide shade and support a biodiversity of flora and fauna. They also increase the value of a property!
In 2023, we’re planting over 1,200 trees as part of our Street Tree Planting Program. This program has been in place for over 15 years and sees Council plant a tree on the verge in front of a house or business. After extensive planting in Elizabeth Grove this year, the team will move to Elizabeth Downs in 2024. This Street Tree Planting Program supports the Council’s Urban Tree Strategy which outlines a goal to plant an additional 60,000 trees in a variety of locations over the next 25 years.
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Tree species are purposely selected for each location to provide shade, a healthy and environmentally sustainable landscape and to contribute to keeping our suburbs cooler during the warmer months. Species are selected to improve the aesthetics of your neighbourhood and to create attractive public spaces. To deliver our Urban Tree Strategy we are:
• Planting 1,500 trees per year in pocket parks and local reserves in proximity to dwellings. • Planting 350 trees per year in larger biodiversity reserves.
• Continuing to progress zero net loss of street trees – if we remove one, we replace it somewhere else in the city.
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PN Playford News Future park upgrades are set to take place in the following reserves: • Mofflin, Elizabeth Vale • Peerless Road, Munno Para West
• Pete Smith, Davoren Park • Dwight, Elizabeth Downs
• Virgo Street, Elizabeth South • Barrow Crescent, Elizabeth Vale
• Gould Road, Elizabeth Park
Playford News
Unleashing Fremont Park That’s one small step for Seth, one giant leap for dogkind! The terrier rescue dog from Hillbank had the honour of being the first pooch to visit Playford’s newest dog park, located in the heart of Playford at the newly upgraded eastern end of Fremont Park.
As soon as owner Robert unclipped his leash, Seth was busy exploring the grass, trees and gardens of the fenced space, which includes separate sections for smaller and larger dogs. Robert laughs as Seth lifts his hind leg over the foot of a pine tree, “I think he officially owns the place now.
“It’s great having such a large space for smaller dogs to run around,” Robert said. “As soon as I walked in, I noticed the lights as well – it’ll be a popular place for people to visit and feel safe.”
Robert was impressed with the park’s variety, including a new carpark and toilets off Yorktown Road and plenty of sheltered seating. “Visiting dog parks is an enriching experience for both of us,” Robert said. “Seth looks forward to meeting new friends and it’s a good excuse for both of us to get outside.”
The unleashed area for dogs is just one of the new additions to the eastern section of Fremont Park. The area has been transformed with an expanded recreational area for events, new gazebo, paths, seating, lighting and drinking fountains all complemented by extensive landscaping and native plantings. Established in the late 1970s, Mayor Glenn Docherty said Fremont Park has continued to grow alongside the city, with this stage of redevelopment following upgrades in 2017 and 2020. “We were established as a garden city and we know this element of our landscape is still important to our community,” said Mayor Docherty.
“This newly upgraded space will further elevate Fremont as Playford’s premier park, supporting our ever-growing city with a green, urban retreat, allowing people to get outside and socialise with family and friends.” For more information on Fremont Park’s newest amenities visit playford.sa.gov.au/fremont-park
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Rink revives memories For long term Hillbank resident, Kate Roberts, the idea of a new skating rink in Playford stirs fond memories.
restaurant and other hospitality tenancies.
30 years later, Kate and her husband Pete, are excitedly anticipating the proposed development by Pelligra Group for a sports entertainment venue featuring a cooler type of rink – an indoor ice rink in the Elizabeth CBD.
Describing themselves as “normal hardworking people”, Kate and Pete’s lives have grown in unison with the development of Elizabeth.
As a young teen, Kate was a frequent flyer at the Elizabeth Skating Rink on Elizabeth Way, where she spent countless Friday and Saturday nights skating alongside her friends.
The proposed development, located on the southern intersection of Main North Road and Philip Highway, will include an indoor ice sports arena, elite rock-climbing facility, two indoor sports courts and gymnasium, and will be supported by a 10 | playford.sa.gov.au
“I spent a large portion of the 70s and 80s watching movies at the Hillbank drive-in or meeting friends at the local roller-rink,” Kate said. “It’s nice to know there will be plenty of places in Elizabeth for today’s young people to build memories.”
Moving to Hillbank in 1993, the couple can’t believe how much growth has taken place in the CBD in the last 30 years. When asked to sum up the changes proposed for the Elizabeth CBD, big smiles light up their faces. “Change is as good as a holiday!”
“We have seen so much change over
Kate and Pete Roberts in the Elizabeth CBD
the years, with new restaurants and leisure activities opening up, along with new schools and stores,” said Kate.
They are also excited to see the development of the Playford Innovation Hub. Located on Main North Road adjacent to the Windsor Car Park, the second proposed development by Pelligra Group will feature a multi-storey space for entrepreneurial start-ups and businesses, as well as offer a hospitality venue, foyer and landscape forecourt. “It’s going to be a great drawcard for the area. I think it will challenge stereotypes that Elizabeth can unfairly be labelled with,” said Kate. The couple have dubbed Elizabeth a “self-contained city”, saying that everything they need is in arms-reach. “I can’t wait to give ice skating a go and see if I still have the moves after all these years,” laughs Kate.
We are building a more connected CBD
Our community has told us they want retail, business and entertainment options close to home so they can have fun and stay and play longer in Playford. The proposed developments by Pelligra Group support this vision and will help realise a revitalised CBD where locals and visitors can connect and socialise. Pelligra is currently seeking planning consent and other approvals to progress these developments. For more information visit playford.sa.gov.au/cbd
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Golden girls re-invent retirement Listening to Rose and Jean’s light‑hearted banter makes you feel like you are watching a reboot of the Golden Girls. The two UK expats are thick as thieves, laughing amongst themselves as they reflect on their 40+ years of friendship. “Our husbands worked together and when they both took up golf it was bye-bye fellas,” quipped Rose. “We tried to join in with golf but that didn’t last for long – thankfully our friendship stuck,” said Jean.
The two friends recently decided to take the plunge and move in together, putting their names on an enquiry list for a place in a new residential aged care home in Elizabeth South.
Located in the heart of the Playford Health & Wellbeing Precinct, the 96-place Healthia development supports residents to have more choice and engagement in everyday living. Healthia’s village-like setting features eight houses, each home to 12 residents. At the heart of each home is a shared living space where residents can connect, relax and spend time with family and friends. The design promotes relationships, independence and choice in a supported environment. Jean has lived in the same home in Elizabeth for the past 60 years. She said that she is happy to be making such a dramatic life change with the support of her best friend. “Elizabeth will always be home for me. Being so close to the health precinct and having Rose with me makes it feel a lot less stressful. I have already seen familiar faces at open day which was nice – this is my community,” said Jean.
Rose, a proactive member of the community, said that she was drawn to live at Healthia by the independent lifestyle. She has spent the past 16 years as a member of Grenville Hub, singing in the Silver Beat Rock Choir and even acting in a recent show at the Adelaide Fringe. 12 | playford.sa.gov.au
“It made sense to move here. At my age you spend more time with friends than with family. Hopefully I can wrangle up some new recruits here too,” laughed Rose. Along with providing new retirement living options, Healthia has created 130 new jobs for Playford.
Healthia Care Manager and Munno Para local Chloe said she was excited to be looking after people from her own community. “As a registered nurse I have always wanted to work in a career which helps people. Now I get to help people in my neighborhood,” said Chloe.
More upgrades on the way
Healthia is just one of a number of new developments within the Playford Health & Wellbeing Precinct.
• Calvary is progressing the second stage of the Playford Health Hub on Haydown Road, which includes an already completed retail and carpark facility, a medical and specialist centre and a proposed private hospital.
• Council has signed over land on Oldham Road to the State Government for future expansion of the Lyell McEwin Hospital. • Council is transforming Mofflin Reserve into an outdoor play space and urban sanctuary, featuring large nature play, a walking and running loop and therapeutic garden with quiet areas for rest and recuperation to complement nearby health services.
Council and the community want world class health, education, rehabilitation and research facilities in our precinct. These services complement an expanding Lyell McEwin Hospital which supports our rapid population growth in the northern region.
Playford News
Rose and Jean pose with Healthia Care Manager, Chloe
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Shaping the north’s defence industry When Mark Robinson reflects on his family history, it seems he was destined to form a business in Playford. His grandfather’s name is engraved in gold (quite literally) onto the front of the Central District Football Club’s most prestigious award – the Norm Russell Medal. “He was a bit of a trailblazer back in the day,” laughed Mark. “He moved to Elizabeth in 1955 and opened the region’s first ever pharmacy.” Mark’s grandfather, Norm Russell, was a pivotal founding member of Central District Football Club and an integral figurehead in local health, receiving an Order of Australia Medal for his services.
His accolades were etched into Mark’s memory, inspiring him to become a pioneer in his own profession within the defence industry.
In 2014, Mark was at a crossroad. After serving for 14 years in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), Mark transitioned back into civilian life. It meant finding a way to transfer all the tailored skills and training he had accumulated serving his country into a new career – one where he wouldn’t be donning a green slouch hat. “When I left the ADF I found it difficult to get my skills professionally recognised,” Mark said. “I had picked up plenty of skills during my time serving, but those weren’t going to be relatable in other industries.”
Those roadblocks inspired Mark to develop Aimpoint, a training provider geared towards helping veterans and serving members. The business supports veterans transition to the civilian workforce, as well as consulting to the defence industry across various facets of business. “Each year there’s between five to six thousand transitioning defence members who are facing the same sort of challenges I did,” Mark said.
Mark says he receives up to 10 calls a day from current and former service men and women from his office at Playford’s Stretton Centre.
“We spent a good eight years as a contractor on the Attack Class Submarine Program – when that finished we focused all our energy on becoming a Registered Training Organisation. This means we can deliver nationally recognised training.”
As Aimpoint grew, so did Mark’s ambitions, and in 2022, he would join with other Playford‑based defence companies to form the Edinburgh Industry Alliance. Mark says the local sector has found strength in numbers. “Operating as a capability partner, the Edinburgh Industry Alliance is a one stop shop for defence companies. This means that instead of having to find 100 different suppliers, they can come to us and we can provide them with a diverse range of services and products such as welding, electronics, robotics, composites, management and design.”
The Alliance has been a game changer for defence in Playford, by helping to support growth in jobs and generate new work opportunities for local businesses. Together, their shared voice has been able to cut through a competitive global market, recently attracting attention from Spanish shipbuilder Navantia and Korean conglomerate Hanwha. “When it comes to defence, we have been able to put Playford on the map and I’m proud of that.”
Edinburgh Industry Alliance
The Edinburgh Industry Alliance provides collaborative leadership in northern Adelaide with the aim of ensuring full utilisation of industrial and business capability to meet Australia’s growing sovereign needs. For more information about the alliance visit industryalliance.com.au
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Elected Member chat Who in our community inspires you? Ward One
crarentoulis@playford.sa.gov.au
I’m inspired by the dedicated volunteers at Virginia Football and Netball Club. Locals give up their Saturdays to support the games at Virginia Oval. Roles range from canteen workers to coaches, ensuring a vibrant community sports experience for all.
Our community volunteers inspire me. With nominations for Citizen of the Year now open, I couldn’t think of a better time to acknowledge our local heroes. Last year’s winner, Joe Kielnerowski would have to be at the top of my list for his amazing work through Joe’s Connected Garden.
Cr Rebecca Vandepeear 0483 132 360
Cr Clint Marsh 0478 283 874
The coaches at Northside Boxing Club inspire me with their dedication, offering local youth a fresh start. Some become elite athletes, while others find growth and belonging, striving daily for self-improvement.
I want to take a moment to recognise and thank our incredible volunteers for their hard work and dedication. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for everything you do!
crrvandepeear@playford.sa.gov.au
crcmarsh@playford.sa.gov.au
Ward two covers the suburbs of Munno Para Downs, Munno Para West, Munno Para, Smithfield and Blakeview; and part of the suburb of Hillier.
Cr Jane Onuzans 0432 251 207
creonuzans@playford.sa.gov.au
Our volunteers in Playford are awe‑inspiring, fostering resilient and compassionate communities. Their dedication, purpose, and efforts have a profound impact, creating true connections and making a difference in our communities. 16 | playford.sa.gov.au
mayordocherty@playford.sa.gov.au
Ward one covers the suburbs of Angle Vale, Buckland Park, Virginia, Eyre, Penfield, Penfield Gardens, MacDonald Park, Andrews Farm, Riverlea Park and Smithfield Plains; and part of the suburbs of Edinburgh North and Waterloo Corner.
Cr Peter Rentoulis (Deputy Mayor) 0417 016 146
Ward Two
Mayor Glenn Docherty 0413 219 868
Cr Gay Smallwood-Smith 0417 016 163
crgsmallwoodsmith@playford.sa.gov.au
There are many in the community who inspire me. There’s May at Grenville Hub, members of service clubs, Andy at Playford Bowling Club, Raelene from the Women’s Shed and the list goes on.
Cr Chantelle Karlsen 0477 215 602
crckarlsen@playford.sa.gov.au
I’m inspired by dedicated parents and carers who selflessly invest their time in setting up, coaching, scoring, and cheering on kids in sports, passing on expertise and nurturing a love of sport in the next generation.
Ward Three
Ward three covers the suburbs of Hillbank, Gould Creek, One Tree Hill, Sampson Flat, Humbug Scrub, Uleybury, Yattalunga and Bibaringa; and part of the suburbs of Craigmore and Evanston Park.
Cr Andrew Craig 0417 016 160
Cr Tanya Smiljanic 0467 576 611
Cr David Kerrison 0478 283 879
Councillor Craig is available to Ward Three residents, his contact details can be found above.
Choosing just one person or community group is impossible because I find inspiration in every individual I meet and the unique journeys they’ve taken. Everyone holds a captivating story.
Our community thrives on the unwavering dedication of our volunteers who are the true heart and soul of Playford. Organisations like the One Tree Hill Progress Association in my hometown lay strong foundations for beautiful communities.
cracraig@playford.sa.gov.au
Ward Four
crtsmiljanic@playford.sa.gov.au
crdkerrison@playford.sa.gov.au
Ward four covers the suburbs of Davoren Park, Elizabeth North, Elizabeth, Elizabeth South and Elizabeth Vale; and part of the suburb of Edinburgh North.
Cr Marilyn Baker 0418 836 685
Cr Katrina Stroet 0466 941 362
Cr Zahra Bayani 0455 355 079
Raelene Wlochowicz is an inspiration, pioneering the Playford Women’s Shed – a safe space for all women to share experiences, support one another, and give back to the community profoundly.
Councillor Stroet is available to Ward Four residents, her contact details can be found above.
Our volunteers within Playford truly inspire me. Their dedication, selflessness, and passion for service uplift hearts. They remind us of the power within each individual to make a difference.
crmbaker@playford.sa.gov.au
Ward Five
crkstroet@playford.sa.gov.au
crzbayani@playford.sa.gov.au
Ward five covers the suburbs of Elizabeth Downs, Elizabeth Park, Elizabeth East and Elizabeth Grove; and part of the suburb of Craigmore.
Cr Misty Norris 0478 283 882
Cr Akram Arifi 0431 609 531
Cr Shirley Halls 0419 866 872
Ann Cooper from Cos We Care and Annette Cooper from Midway Road Community House are remarkable individuals who tirelessly serve our community, providing support, food, education, and a caring environment. Truly inspiring!
Former Playford Citizen of the Year, Leslie Chaplin (Chappy) is an inspiration to me. He has dedicated most of his life volunteering at Argana Park helping the sporting clubs with many activities and he has been greatly supported by his wonderful wife, Judy.
Many people in Playford inspire me. Too many to count! Some of these people rally others to help those in need, providing food and clothing and spreading happiness wherever they go.
crmnorris@playford.sa.gov.au
craarifi@playford.sa.gov.au
crshalls@playford.sa.gov.au
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Panama Women’s National Football Team open training session at Ridley Reserve 18 | playford.sa.gov.au
Playford News
Celebrating female football Holly, 9, Elisabella, 9, and Ella, 11, made heads turn when they appeared on a billboard on Main North Road, Elizabeth East, with other young football players.
They were peppered with questions about their billboard debuts and revealed that phones were running hot.
The billboard represented every club with female football teams in Playford, as well as a special appearance from Adelaide United’s Isabel Hodgson and Emily Hodgson. Girl power reigned supreme in the City of Playford’s Celebration of Female Football – with a line-up of events marking our city’s involvement in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
City of Playford’s Ridley Reserve was selected to provide a base camp for the Panama Women’s National Football Team who trained in the city during their very first World Cup campaign.
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Council hosted a lineup of events for the month-long celebration of female football, including a clinic for young female players and a masterclass on inspiring women in sports. As well as featuring on the prominent billboard, Holly, Elisabella and Ella, took part in the female football clinic, where coaches from Football South Australia ran drills, teaching tips and tricks. Nearly 70 girls between the ages of 7 to 16 participated in the clinic, a reflection of the growth in female participation in sports in Playford. “It’s lots of fun,” said Holly.
“I really like playing football and making friends,” said Ella.
“I have made a ton of friends playing football,” said Elisabella.
For more information on Playford’s Celebration of Female Football head to playford.sa.gov.au/female-football
Holly, Elisabella and Ella
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Uniting Playford through art Scott Rathman rattles a spray can and ponders where to start his creation. Outstretching his right arm, he carefully sprays a clockwise circle onto the centre of the grey wall in front of him. He repeats this motion three more times before stepping back to admire his work. A morning commuter pauses on the adjacent footpath and watches with excitement, while Scott climbs his ladder and begins to spray purple lines across the canvas. “This beats a desk job,” laughs Scott as he discards an empty spray can into a growing pile behind him.
Popping the lid off of a new can, he applies vibrant shades of red onto the wall. It’s the very colour which represents the team and clubroom he’s painting on – the southern wall of Ridley Reserve, home of Adelaide United and the temporary home of the Panama Women’s National Football team. 20 | playford.sa.gov.au
Panama travelled all the way to Playford as part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, demonstrating how sport transcends language and cultural differences. Scott’s mural at the Reserve captures this sentiment and represents something we know as a community – that sport touches the lives of long-time and new residents alike. It’s reminiscent for Scott to be working on a project so close to his childhood home in Munno Para.
“My family moved to Playford when I was young. We weren’t the richest family, but we got by. Even though we didn’t have much, our community embraced each other and looked out for one another – I’ll never forget that,” said Scott. Scott pauses painting and turns his attention to his niece who is filling in the upper left corner of the mural, which will stay long after the international visitors have left Playford.
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First Nations artists Scott Rathman and Ashalea Perry “Use a brighter shade – it’ll make it pop out more.” Working with his family, Scott is able to continue the traditions of his people. The proud Eastern Arrente artist gazes up at his work which is starting to form his story.
“As an Aboriginal artist, we’ve been mark making for thousands of years so this is just an extension of what my ancestors have done.
“Traditionally we didn’t have a written language – art was how we told our stories. I have told a story here that everyone can understand. It doesn’t matter what their background is.” To see the legacy mural Scott created as a welcoming tribute to all visitors to Playford, head to Fairfield Road, Elizabeth Grove.
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A grandstanding ovation for Kris Grant In the late 1960s, when Kris Grant started playing at the Central District Junior Football Association in the club’s U14 side (later named Central District Football Club), he couldn’t have imagined the legacy he would leave. The contributions and impact Kris Grant had over a four-decade span at the Doggies were acknowledged in the naming of Elizabeth Oval’s grandstand the Kris Grant Stand, an initiative of City of Playford and supported by Central District Football Club. 22 | playford.sa.gov.au
Kris played U17s, U19s and Reserves in his favourite position on the wing, before deciding to hang up his footy boots at age 21. In 1973, Kris secured a fundraising/ bookkeeping position at the club and would slowly climb the ranks until he became CEO. Kris’s all-time highlight was seeing the club win nine league premierships between 12 consecutive SANFL grand finals from 2000–2011, after many years of lost games and in some respects, lost hope.
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Part of a bigger facelift
The dedication of the Kris Grant Stand is the latest investment by Council into facilities at Elizabeth Oval. This includes new unisex changerooms, oval fencing, scoreboard upgrades and improved oval lighting.
Leading up to the grand finals, Kris remembered how local shops would dress in blue, red, and white and how the club and players felt the support of the city.
The success of the consecutive premierships ushered in a newfound respect for the club. Kris speaks of this turning point, saying he wanted Centrals to have the respect of other footy clubs and to give the people in the north something positive to hang onto.
Even retirement from the club in 2021 hasn’t stopped Kris from being a regular at Ponderosa. On game days, Kris is often seen watching on and taking notes for the coach, passing down his advice.
Kris has had a deep impact on the hundreds of players who have made Central District Football Club their home. While he may be naturally shy in nature, when it comes to advocating for his club, its players and the north his voice couldn’t be louder. playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 23
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Our city’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu heavy hitters When he was just 11, Jesse Hughes fell in love with a new and exciting form of martial arts which was taking Australia by storm – Brazilian jiu-jitsu. While other kids his age were kicking a football or playing video games, Jesse was putting on his gi (kimono), stepping onto the mat and training with adults twice his age, height and weight class. “There was something about it which just clicked for me,” Jesse said. “I was the only kid my age doing it and I had to train alongside adults.”
Jesse and Brazilian jiu-jitsu would become inseparable. As Jesse grappled his way through the ranks, the gradients in belt changed colour. Brazilian jiu-jitsu
gyms were starting to pop up across metropolitan Adelaide. It was almost like they were growing in tandem.
At 17, Jesse’s life would become even more entangled with the sport. “My coach approached me and asked if I wanted to help him out by teaching some of the younger fighters,” reflected Jesse.
“A year after that I was teaching one of his adult classes and that was when I knew I wanted to start my own business.” Over the next few years, Jesse would move between venues, until he found a permanent home for his business Armour Brazilian Jiujitsu (BJJ).
It was next to a scrap metal yard inside a tin shed in Smithfield, that Jesse would build his dream.
“From day one I wanted to create something, which was more than just a gym – I wanted to build a positive culture, a place where the fighters know more than just each other’s names.” Jesse has dedicated hundreds of hours to developing a remarkable community of over 40 fighters.
His emphasis on building friendships outside of the gym has helped him to establish a solid level of retention in his classes. “We can chat for hours after a class. Sometimes I need to kick everyone out,” laughed Jesse.
“We go out on social trips. I will give people a leg up if they are struggling in their day-to-day life.”
Jesse’s gym has been paying him dividends, with BJJ housing some of the best fighters in Australia and abroad.
“We have a number of kids who are top‑ranked across Australasia. Recently our under 18s came first in a national competition. “This sport isn’t easy. You spar with people on your first lesson. It’s a humbling experience but if you keep your discipline and keep at it, it’ll change your life and make you a better person.”
People of all ages and levels of experience are welcome to join Armour Brazilian JiuJitsu. You can find out more by contacting Jesse on 0422 206 939.
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PN Playford News
Business is thriving at Williams Metal Fabrications Hiding behind a small front office, you’d be forgiven for not realising that Williams Metal Fabrications has built a team of nearly 50 staff and is working on some of South Australia’s largest and most important projects from their Elizabeth South workshop. As the business turns 25, we sat down with Director and General Manager, Stuart Rogers, to learn more about what they do, how locals can get involved, and what’s coming next. Tell us a little about Williams Metal Fabrication.
We specialise in bespoke metal fabrication for one-off projects – particularly in the areas of infrastructure, marine and defence. We were founded by Ross Williams out of the back of a
trailer in 1998, and I’ve been with the company for around 18 years now – much of that as a director alongside Craig and Peter Williams. What’s your biggest and most exciting challenge right now?
We no longer have any space remaining at our Elizabeth South workshop, so we have leased another facility on Peachey Road just for plant and equipment storage. Conversations are now happening to look at developing a purpose-built facility locally. This may involve getting another company to develop the land and lease it back to us with the option to buy later. The plan is to keep growing, not too quickly but at a manageable steady rate. You hear a few horror stories of companies
The City of Playford’s Defence Industry Day provides businesses with the opportunity to hear from and network with some of the world’s largest defence firms, organisations responsible for developing the defence supply industry, and training providers. The 2023 event will be held on 22 November. Visit strettoncentre.com.au/events for more information. growing too quickly, so we are very aware of the need to grow sustainably and be able to scale easily depending on our project work.
Another of our biggest challenges is predicting the forward pipeline of work. Because it’s so project based, it’s a fine balancing act to make sure that we’re doing enough estimating work to keep the team busy, but not overwhelming them with too much. It can be so dependent on the work we end up winning. We’re putting in some software to help manage the pipeline more accurately and efficiently. How do you hire staff? And what advice would you give to local job-seekers?
We have an apprenticeship scheme in place and aim to always have a minimum of six apprenticeships on the go, including
at least one first year, second year, third year and fourth year. We are out there talking in schools to make sure that these opportunities are front of mind.
My best piece of advice for people looking at these positions is that you don’t need any experience, you just need the right attitude, because it can be hard work – especially on hot and cold days.
You’ve attended the City of Playford’s Defence Industry Day in both 2021 and 2022. What value did this bring to your business? Defence Industry Day is an event that I really look forward to. We generally know about the projects that are going on, but it helps us to put a face to a name and get airtime in front of the right people.
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PN Playford News
Youth Action Crew is making a difference
Sometimes all it takes to make a difference is a handful of dedicated people with a shared vision, like Playford’s newly formed Youth Action Crew (YAC) which is on a mission to better the lives of young people in their community.
The YAC are made up of young people who develop actions and responses to challenges facing young people in Playford. Members, Izzabella, Kristie and Aaron have hit the ground running, with an ambitious plan to help young people in Playford.
containing essential hygiene items to help young people who may be doing it tough.
20 bug out bags have been assembled by the group members and will be distributed to local services and City of Playford sites to be given to young people in need. YAC member Izzabella said the idea for the bug out bags came from seeing their own friends going through challenges.
One of the first projects the group is working on is bug out bags – back packs
“We decided that we should give them some supplies they might need, so we came up with a bag with necessities,” said Izzabella. “We’ve been given a chance to have a voice and we are taking advantage of that.”
The YAC meets every Monday night from 4:30pm – 6:00pm at the Northern Sound System. Refreshments are provided.
“We all come up with different ideas, but the more ideas from others the better,” said Kristie.
You can find out more information by visiting youthofplayford on Facebook. 28 | playford.sa.gov.au
Another YAC member, Kristie said that having more young members onboard will mean more ideas are generated.
Anyone aged 13–18 who lives in the Playford area is eligible to join the group, which meets weekly at the Northern Sound System.
Playford News
Talking positive futures with Adam Ludewig Local talent and The Voice star Adam Ludewig didn’t like school.
He attributes some of his struggles in the classroom to having autism, which made it harder to learn in the traditional environment like other students.
Adam also admitted that he failed music (more than once) despite going on to become an accomplished guitarist and singer. “I can’t read music, but if you play something [on the guitar] I could play it straight back to you,” Adam said.
Adam always knew music was his true calling. “Everybody is different in their own special, beautiful way,” Adam said.
This ‘everybody is different’ message was the subject of his guest appearance at this year’s Positive Futures Expo.
Held annually by the City of Playford, the expo provides a unique opportunity for young people living with disability to connect with industry leaders and state-wide providers.
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Adam still finds it ironic that he’s being praised for performing. It’s a stark comparison from his school days when he was more likely to be told off for his distracting behaviour. His final piece of advice spoke to a deep desire to never let a lucky break slip through his fingers.
“Don’t be scared or let that fear that you’ve got deep in your gut predict your future.”
City of Playford provides a range of programs and services for people living with a disability. These programs are person-centred and designed to promote independence, participation and community inclusion. To find out more visit playford.sa.gov.au/accessibility
Scores of young people from as far as Seaton and Balaklava gathered at the Playford Civic Centre to hear Adam’s story.
Over 60 stallholders chatted with young people about possible career paths available to them. Year 11 student, Lachlan, was among the students at the expo curious to find a profession that spoke to him. “I’m still trying to figure out what I want to do with my future and today was a great opportunity for me to explore all my options,” said Lachlan.
“I have been considering working in hospitality but I also would love to see if I can make it as a musician. Today was a chance to meet one of my favourite artists and learn about how he was able to make it.” playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 29
PN What’s On
Singin’ in the Rain
Women with big hits
The “Greatest Movie Musical of All Time” is faithfully and lovingly adapted by Broadway legends, Betty Comedian and Adolph Green, from their original award-winning screenplay in Singin’ in the Rain.
Relive the swinging sixties as established performers Kat Caton and Jacqui Lim, fresh from their sell-out Fringe Festival shows, sing the hits from the big female artists and girl groups of that decade.
Stories of the Paranormal – Ghost Talk
City of Playford Tennis International
Friday 6 – Saturday 21 October | $24 The Shedley, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth theshedley.com.au
Naomi from ‘Lantern Ghost Tours’ will be bringing to life the haunted stories of the Playford Library, Civic Centre, and Shedley Theatre.
Thursday 26 October | 5.30–6.30pm | $5 per person (16+ years) Civic Centre Library, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth playfordlibrary.eventbrite.com 30 | playford.sa.gov.au
Monday 16 October | 11:00am | Tickets $20 The Shedley, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth theshedley.com.au
22–29 October | Free event Playford Tennis Centre Spruance Road, Elizabeth East tennis.com.au/protour
Playford News
Sound Bath with Tribal Soul Sisters
Discover the sound bath experience with drums, gongs, Tibetan and crystal bowls to engage your mind, body, and soul.
Sunday 5 November | 2–3pm | $10 per person (18+ years) Civic Centre Library, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth playfordlibrary.eventbrite.com
Defence Industry Day
The City of Playford’s Defence Industry Day provides local businesses with the opportunity to hear from and network with some of the world’s largest defence firms and organisations.
Wednesday 22 November Playford Civic Centre, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth strettoncentre.com.au/events
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Author Talks: Pip Williams in conversation
Join bestselling author of ‘The Dictionary of Lost Words’, Pip Williams as she discusses her latest book ‘The Bookbinders of Jericho’ and life as an author. Thursday 16 November | 5.30–6.30pm | Free, bookings essential Civic Centre, Function Room, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth playfordlibrary.eventbrite.com
Maggie Moo at Elizabeth Rise Maggie Moo Music offers music and movement classes for 0–5 years.
You can expect lots of singing, dancing, musical instruments, parachute play, bubbles and learning.
Every Thursday | 9:30am (0–2 years), 10:30am (2–5 years) | Elizabeth Rise Community Centre, 7/26 Hamblynn Rd, Elizabeth Downs playford.sa.gov.au/elizabeth-rise-program-events
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playford.sa.gov.au
8256 0333 | playford@playford.sa.gov.au
Don’t have a FOGO bin? They are now FREE for City of Playford residents
Phone 8259 2100
Recyclable.