September 2022 | FREEPlayfordNews Connect with nature Shelby Supportingrepresentsgrowth
From the Mayor Mayor Glenn Docherty with students from Playford International College. These students are part of a new STEM project thanks to Northern Sound System and BAE Systems Australia. Turn to page 26 to read more.
We are also focussing on improving neighbourhood parks, playgrounds and sports grounds. We know that people experience increased wellbeing and connection when they can spend time outside in spaces that look and feel nice, so renewing and introducing new recreation spaces is a key part of our plan. You can read more about these upgrades from page 10.
Following consultation with our community, Council adopted its 2022/23 Annual Business Plan and Budget (ABP) in June. The ABP outlines the services we will deliver in the next year. Our plan includes renewing roads, footpaths, stormwater infrastructure and kerbs and we will plant 2,000 trees across the city.
Mayor Glenn Docherty
Welcome to your latest edition of Playford News Magazine. I am delighted to share this edition with you as we take a look at a wide variety of topics that Council deals with on a daily basis – from managing the challenges of growth in our city; to highlighting ways community can connect with nature; to programs that help young people engage in education.
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I am excited to welcome the return of the City of Playford Tennis International in October. After a three-year hiatus, the Australian Pro Tour event will be back at the Tennis Centre. I look forward to welcoming competitors from near and far and I encourage you to attend the free event. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience elite-level competition in our own backyard.
It’s also that time of year when we take a look at Council’s plans for the next 12 months.
LetDoContentsyouhaveastoryidea?usknowatplayfordnews@playford.sa.gov.au Information and events in this publication are current at the time of printing. Subsequent changes may occur. We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Kaurna people, the traditional custodians whose ancestral lands we gather on. We acknowledge the deep feelings of attachment and relationship of the Kaurna people to country and we respect and value their past, present and ongoing connections to the land and cultural beliefs. EDITOR Kate Hayward PHOTOGRAPHY Darren Clements Kate BrentonHaywardEdwards DESIGN Donna Masson CONTRIBUTORS Kate CraigRichardJacquiShannonNicoleHaywardAlbertonSiegeleDeanWatsonClarke Building for growth 4 A centre for community connections 8 Building community and city foundations 10 Putting the play in playford 11 A change in the air 12 Our cutting edge team 14 Connecting with nature in Playford 15 Your questions answered 19 Elected Member chat 20 Vote local and make a difference 22 New beginnings, new learnings 23 Champs in action this October 24 Virtual reality, real opportunity 26 Preserving our military history 28 Tip of the cap to Matt 29 What’s on 30 Turn to page 14 to find out how Danni helps keep our city looking good. playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 3
Chris Bayley and Cass Kotsoglous of Angle Vale and Paul and Lesley Newitt of Elizabeth East are two couples experiencing the benefits of growth in Playford first-hand. Chris and Cass recently moved to Angle Vale’s Miravale Estate, from Walkerville and Gawler
The nitty gritty of growth
It’s no secret that Playford is growing. For the past couple of decades, scores of new housing developments have popped up across the city and we’ve welcomed thousands of new residents to our community. This growth will have a lasting impact on the city. Our urban footprint is expanding with hundreds of new houses in suburbs like Munno Para West and Blakeview, and once semi-rural farming towns like Angle Vale and Virginia are being transformed into bustling communities.
“Anglerespectively.Vale’s a great place to raise a family,” said Cass. “There are options for schools, a community vibe and easy access to Adelaide”. Partner, Chris, agrees. “We’ve got the Barossa on our doorstep and shops and the expressway nearby”.
Meanwhile, established areas of our city are also developing. Older suburbs like Elizabeth and Smithfield are being renewed with ageing infrastructure like stormwater, footpaths and playgrounds being replaced. Growth can be an exciting thing for a city. It brings vibrancy to our community with new residents creating diverse and engaging neighbourhoods. It means a boost for local businesses, a chance to live in modern suburbs and access to new services and facilities.Butitisa double-sided coin, and on the flip side, growth brings us challenges. It can make our city difficult to get around as public infrastructure like roads and footpaths doesn’t always keep up with private development, and services like schools, childcare and sports facilities don’t always meet community demand.
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Council has a key role to play to ensure the challenges of growth don’t outweigh the opportunities and we build a city to be proud of – both for current residents and future generations who will call Playford home.
Fifteen minutes away in Elizabeth East, Paul and Lesley Newitt are also experiencing the benefits of growth.
“Elizabeth is busier than it used to be, but you can access facilities easily.”
Our region has a history of rapid urban development, starting with Elizabeth in the 1950s – a satellite city that was carved out of the fertile paddocks between Salisbury and Smithfield.
What’s more, Council needs to coordinate development across the whole of Playford, not just in new areas. Established suburbs require renewing too, which put together, creates an environment that demands a lot of Council resources.
playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 5
Why growth and why Playford?
The couple returned to the suburb eight years ago after living in the area from 1972 to “It’s1984.agreat area to live with a strong sense of community,” they said. “We walk a lot and have noticed footpaths have recently been improved and roads resealed. The Grenville Centre, where we volunteer for Home Assist, and Fremont Park, are in striking distance.
“Elizabeth is an older area, but with plenty of development going on,” Paul said.
While new suburbs like Craigmore, Hillbank and Davoren Park grew organically around Elizabeth, in the early 2010s the trajectory of growth in Playford changed when the state government rezoned large parcels of land on the edges of our suburban footprint for residential development. Big sections of farming land in places like Angle Vale, Virginia and Munno Para West that were once vegetable crops, orchards or vineyards could now be turned into houses, with 30-years-worth of land supply hitting the housing market at the same time. This triggered many pockets of growth to pop up across the city at once, all which require civil and social infrastructure to support new communities. From new roads to stormwater, upgrading intersections and more sports and recreation facilities, growth places a lot of demand for Council to fund different projects to match the pace of private development.
Community experience Council experience
What is happening
Because of fragmented development, it is complex to plan for civil infrastructure on a city-wide basis. Pockets of growth occurring at one time can lead to inconsistent development of civil infrastructure.
Growth happeningis quickly
Lots of onehappeninggrowthattime
Some neighbourhoods have everything they need – brand new roads and footpaths and lovely streets. Other neighbourhoods are lagging behind and some even lack basic things like footpaths.
There is a lot of attention for resources and a limited source of funding to go around.
Some deeds are managed by the State Government and are only executed when developments hit certain sales or population reaches a specific level, even if there is community demand for a project to commence.
Pockets of growth spread across the city, developed by a range of companiesprivate
When the growing gets tough
Council needs to keep up with growth and upgrade roads, footpaths and other infrastructure more quickly. It’s like they didn’t even plan for this. Council was faced with 30-years of residential land coming on to the market at one time. It makes planning
Fundingcomplex.for infrastructure and resources has not kept pace with private development. It would be great to be able to build everything our city needs at one time, but this isn’t financially possible.
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growthaccommodatingand
Older suburbs get forgotten. All the attention is on new suburbs. Having large, new areas to service as well as existing suburbs to renew is a unique position for a city to be in. It is highly demanding and there is a lot of attention for Council resources.
From semi-rural to urban township Places like Angle Vale and Virginia are no longer country towns, but the roads, footpaths and things like sports grounds haven’t been renewed to keep up with the change.
Funding also doesn’t keep pace with the speed of private development which means there is often a lag between private development and surrounding infrastructure. Council doesn’t have full control to manage when new infrastructure, like roads, are developed. This is coordinated in partnership with State Government and developers.
There are lots of new houses and residents so roads are busier and it takes longer to get Somearound.roads and footpaths can’t cope with the level of traffic our city is experiencing because of all the new residents.
To fund new things like roads and footpaths, growth deeds are in place.
Renewing existing suburbs
RevitalisationofVirginiaMainStreet Upgrade to McGilp Reserve, One Tree Hill Refurbed playgrounds at Pete Smith Reserve, Davoren Park and Gould Street and Dwight Reserves, Elizabeth Park New reserve at Mofflin Reserve, Elizabeth Vale Upgrades to Stebonheath Road
More facilitiesrecreationatAngleValeCommunitySportsCentre
RoadinfrastructureStormwateralongStebonheathRoad,MunnoPara,CurtisandAngleVale
Council is working with developers and State Government to design and build critical infrastructure for new suburbs, while renewing infrastructure in older areas so it remains fit for purpose. This year you will see:
A new community park in Munno Para West in response to community need A new intersection at the junction of Curtis and Andrews Roads
Paying for growth
Supporting a growing city
A State Government traffic analysis of Curtis Road to help determine future upgrades
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Playford was one of the first councils to experience large, fragmented private development. We knew this could mean huge upfront costs for Council to build infrastructure like stormwater and roads needed to support private developments.
To make sure ratepayers didn’t carry the lion’s share of this financial burden, Council negotiated agreements which committed landowners and the State Government to partfund infrastructure costs. These are known as deeds and are essential in ensuring that growth doesn’t mean large rate increases to cover the cost of building new or upgraded infrastructure in growing areas.
Deeds are executed when land developments hit certain sales numbers, or when population levels reach a specific level. People
Building for
It’s a sentiment that closely mirrors the 1950s vision for the newly established Elizabeth town centre – a focal point for trading and professional activity, as well as a place its community could connect and socialise.
Growth is a key driver of Council’s plans to reshape the Elizabeth CBD into a thriving retail, business and entertainment precinct. It responds to contemporary expectations that services, employment and lifestyle experiences are available close to where you Withlive.core sites adjacent to the Elizabeth City Centre, Council has been working with private industry to identify partners to privately invest in the CBD and complement the activities of existing businesses and services like the Elizabeth City Centre.
“I believe the project will further highlight Elizabeth as the diverse and engaging place that it already is,” said Rebecca. “It will give those who aren’t currently visiting more reasons to come and will provide an amazing range of services and facilities to those who are already here.”
“COVID has shown us that, yes, we can all shop online but as humans we will always want, always need that personal, physical and emotional connection. We want to be entertained and enjoy spaces where we can come together.
“I like to think we are the heart of the north,” said Rebecca McDonald, Centre Manager at Elizabeth City Centre. “We are so connected to our immediate community through schools, local organisations and of course, our Rebeccacustomers.”joined the team at Elizabeth City Centre as retail manager in 2012. Ten years and a couple of roles later, she now manages the largest shopping centre in northern Adelaide.
“Our area is growing and expanding at a staggering rate,” said Rebecca. “This growth provides opportunity for personal and business development, more activity, and a greater community for our children to grow up in.”
A centre for community connections
“One of the best parts about working in Playford is the people,” she said. “There are some remarkable personalities in our community. People are what matters.”
PNBuilding for People playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 9
From its days as an open-air mall in the 1960s, welcoming and farewelling department store stalwarts like John Martin’s and Myer, to now boasting over 150 speciality shops and a bustling entertainment precinct, the Centre’s role in Playford has always been more than that of your typical suburban shopping mall.
Subscribe to the CBD project e-news to keep up-to-date with progress at playford.sa.gov.au/cbd
A CBD that responds to growth
“I find it hard to describe what I do as it is so diverse,” Rebecca said. “But at the end of the day, it is all about creating a place that people love to visit. It’s collaborating with stores and customers, supporting my team, finding new stores that our customers want or need, and generally, working on new ways to entertain and connect people.”
“We are a destination, a one-stop-shop where people can come to connect, shop and play; not just for Playford but for the Barossa, Adelaide Plains, Yorke Peninsula and beyond,” Rebecca said.
Council is committed to maintaining a responsible budget while keeping rates as low as possible. We continue to implement our long-term Finance Strategy to manage debt and make the organisation financially sustainable, through ongoing breakeven or surplus operating positions and reducing historical debt. The 22/23 budget maintains an operating surplus, meaning we only spend the income we have and do not borrow money for ongoing service delivery.
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In June 2022, Council adopted its Annual Business Plan and Budget 22/23 (ABP).
Each year our ABP provides a clear plan for the year ahead and in 2022/23 we will continue to deliver the things we know matter most to you – building core infrastructure, improving the local environment and supporting a healthy, happy lifestyle for people living in Playford. We will continue our program of renewing roads, footpaths and kerbs; we will plant an additional 2,000 trees across the city and we have increased investment in our sports facilities and recreation spaces, boosted by $6.64M in grant funding from the State Government.
To read the full plan head playford.sa.gov.au/annualbusinessplantoUsingmoneywisely
Building community and city foundations
You can read more about the investment we are proudly making in parks, reserves, playgrounds, recreation space and sports facilities in the coming pages.
This is in addition to ongoing delivery of the everyday services you expect – collecting waste and recycling, mowing verges, cleaning streets and removing graffiti; providing access to thousands of resources at our libraries and offering wellbeing, aged and youth services through our community centres. These are the things we know will make a positive difference to the lives of people in our community and create noticeable change in local neighbourhoods.
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Building for People
Putting the play Playford
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in
From a brand new neighbourhood park in Munno Para West to new toilets at Blake’s Crossing, two new dog parks at Fremont Park, right through to irrigation upgrades for grassed areas, the investment in play spaces will help more people access outdoor spaces across the city.
We know that people experience increased wellbeing when they spend time outside in spaces that look and feel nice. As part of Council’s commitment to building an active and connected community, this year we plan to build new parks, renew existing reserves and revamp recreation infrastructure all over the city.
On the list for 2022/23 Redevelopment of Gould Road and Dwight Reserves, Elizabeth Park Revamp of Pete Smith Reserve, Davoren Park A new public toilet at Blakes Crossing, Blakeview and California Reserve, Craigmore Virgo Street Reserve and Barrow Street Reserve upgrades A new neighbourhood park at Munno Para West Stage 3 of the Fremont Park which includes a new dog park, car park and additional greening An extended recreational area at Angle Vale Community Sports Centre with a BMX track, playground and public toilets Revitalisation of Virginia Institute playground as part of the Virginia Main Street upgrade Upgrade of Mofflin Reserve in Elizabeth Vale with new playspaces, BBQ areas, raised garden beds and tree planting BBQs, picnic settings, shade sails, softfall and irrigation upgrades at reserves throughout the city
More upgrades on the way
Sport and Recreation minor Projects
A range of improvements including throwing cages for discus at Kooranowa Reserve and Duncan Anderson Reserve, fencing at Eyre Sports Park, coaches’ boxes for the main soccer pitches at Argana Park and Mofflin Reserve, and new cricket practice nets for the Craigmore Cricket Club at Argana Park.
Argana Park, Elizabeth Downs Extra carparking, more changerooms and better lighting.
McGilp Recreation Park, One Tree Hill Oval extension, new changerooms, BMX track and carparking upgrades.
The upgrade to changerooms at Central Districts Football Club is just one of a number of projects Council will undertake in 2022/23 to improve sport and recreation facilities across the city. It is part of Council’s commitment to creating opportunities for people to play sport, socialise and be active.
Installation of floodlighting to allow twilight and night use for sports including softball, football and soccer.
Ridley Reserve
Immerse yourself in Bulldogs’ culture at the home of CDFC, Grand Central on Goodman Road, Elizabeth. With a bistro, weekly specials and even Tuesday night bingo, it’s a place to not only enjoy the footy. For more information visit cdfc.com.au
The project was jointly funded by the Office of Recreation, Sport and Racing and the City of Playford.
“You’llyounger.notice the impact that women’s footy will have on younger generations,” Shelby said. “SANFL competitions and now AFLW – girls have more to strive for and role models to look up to. Female representation is so important.”
A new report released by the SANFL said there would need to be at least 12 extra football ovals in South Australia by 2032 to meet the growth in female participation. The report also acknowledged that 80 per cent of the current football changeroom facilities are of an inadequate standard for female players and umpires.
Three new unisex changerooms will soon be completed at the X Convenience Oval in Elizabeth, as participation in women’s AFL continues to increase across SkipperPlayford.oftheCentral Districts Football Club (CDFC) and the Bulldogs’ 2022 Best and Fairest, Shelby Smith is excited for the future of women’s Aussie Rules.
From watching her dad play at Centrals, to now playing for the same club and having her daughter watch the team on game day, Smith acknowledges that things have come a long way since she was
The three new changerooms at Central Districts each include showers, toilets and a trainers’ room and are an essential part of having modern, purpose-built facilities available to meet growing demand.
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A change in the air
This year the Central District Football Club had more than 120 female players try out for the youth development squad across under 14 and under 16 age groups.
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As a lover of the outdoors and a camping enthusiast, it’s fitting that Danielle Brooks (pictured) spends most of her days working to lift the appearance of our city.
For more information on maintaining your verge, visit playford.sa.gov.au/verges
Our cutting edge team
Our rural residents will find there are a few more things to consider in their application, like the unique terrain at the roadside boundary and preservation of any native vegetation stands – which are indicated by numbered blue markers along roadsides.
Danni and her team will be out in full swing in the coming months, working systematically throughout the city to help keep verge growth under control. If you want to find out when the crew will be in your suburb, the schedule can be found online at playford.sa.gov.au/verges
Danni is the coordinator for our parks and verges team and oversees the urban verge mowing program as well as tractor slashing, reserve mowing and the irrigation and maintenance crew.
It’s a big job looking after the city’s 700 kilometres of urban verges and 600 kilometres of rural roadsides, but Danni and her team are up to the task. “Our team is a good group of people,” Danni said. “They are very hardworking and continuously doing their bit to make our city beautiful. “It’s now peak mowing season and the grass is growing quickly. We have all available resources on deck and are getting around as quickly as possible.”
Maintaining your own verge Residents often ask if it’s okay for them to maintain the verge in front of their property, and the answer is a resounding yes. We encourage verge-proud residents to complete an application form to make sure you are aware of any associated risks when working on the verge. Once an application is successful, we will attach a green metal marker to your kerb to notify our verge crews not to maintain your verge on their rounds.
Get outside and explore Playford
2ParkStebonheathandDog Park Davoren Road, Andrews Farm Boasting 3.6 hectares of wetlands, boardwalks and bridges – this park has large open spaces, sheltered BBQ areas, a dog park and a huge playground with swings, climbing hexagons, a climbing tower net and play equipment for toddlers.
Corner of Yorketown Road & Main North Road, Elizabeth East Centrally located near the Elizabeth City Centre, this picturesque park features a lake (home to flocks of ducks and other waterbirds), two playgrounds, including all-ability play equipment, basketball court, an outdoor exercise gym, gazebo and plenty of shady green spaces.
3Para ConservationWirra Park Para Wirra Drive, Yattalunga Para Wirra Conservation Park is a protected National Park, with modern facilities in a natural bushland setting. Featuring a variety of popular locations, such as the Lake Picnic Area, The Knob Lookout, Wirra Campgrounds and the Gawler View Playground, the park also has beautiful and challenging walking/hiking trails like the Devil’s Nose Track and the Lizard Rock Hike.
ToiletsPicnicBBQCyclinghikingWalking/trailareaarea ScenicHeritageWaterPlaygroundfacilitiesSportsplayviews playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 15
4Smith Creek Trail Davoren Road, Andrews Farm The Smith Creek Trail is a familyfriendly path that winds its way from Smithfield Plains to Stebonheath Park at Andrews Farm. The threekilometre trail is perfect for walking, scooting, or cycling.
5Jo ActivityGapperPark Blackburn Road, Hillbank Jo Gapper Activity Park is one of the jewels in the crown of Playford’s parks, reserves and playgrounds. Catering to all needs, the park features a children’s playground, sporting facilities, including football oval, basketball and tennis courts, walking trail and lookout, and a dog park for your four-legged friends with small and big dog areas with lighting.
With the early days of spring bringing glimpses of sunshine and warmer days, now’s the time to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors in Playford. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to take the kids, somewhere to relax and connect with nature or somewhere to exercise, we have an abundance of open spaces for you to experience.
1ParkFremont
This isyour guide togetting outsidein the City Playford.of
PAGE 16 | playford.sa.gov.au Gawler River PORTWAKEFIELDROADNORTH-SOUTHMOTORWAY Riverlea WaterlooVirginiaCornerBucklandPark Penfield AngleVale NORTHERNEXPRESSWAY PORTWAKEFIELDROAD 12 StuartBikewayO’Grady follows the Northern Expressway from Port Wakefield Road, near Virginia to Gawler Fremont Park Corner of Yorketown Road and Main North Road, Elizabeth East CentralMiravalePark Saveiro Boulevard, Angle Vale Jo ActivityGapperPark Blackburn Road, Hillbank 10 Virginia Grove Play Park Coratina Rd, Virginia Connecting with Eyre Sports Park Womma Road, Eyre
playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 17 MAINNORTHROAD MAINNORTHROADBlakeview Bilbaringa Uleybury HumbugScrub SampsonFlat Yattalunga Craigmore OneHillTree CreekGould MunnoParaElizabethCBDMunnoParaWest NORTHERNEXPRESSWAY ParkStebonheathandDogPark Davoren Road, Andrews Farm Playford Alive Town Park 307 Peachey Road, Munno Para Little Para Seed Orchard Main North Road, Hillbank Smith Creek Trail Davoren Road, Andrews Farm Scenic drive One Tree Hill Uley Road up to Gawler-One Tree Hill Road 11 7 165 12 3 nature in Playford Para ConservationWirraPark Para Wirra Drive, Yattalunga 9 4 2
Tree Hill Uley Road up to Gawler-One Tree Hill Road While meandering your way through the hills, take in the stunning views across our city and beyond – these are best viewed at sunset or the ‘golden hour’. Impress your companions – or even a date – with a well-deserved glass of vino at one of two local wineries, Uleybury Wines and Tenafeate Creek Winery – blessed with superb views of rolling hills and native bushland.
We would love to see your photos of explorations around Playford. If you’re posting any photos to social media, please include the hashtag #ThisIsPlayford so they can be featured on the City of Playford social media accounts.
6Playford Alive Town Park Peachey Rd, Munno Para Nestled in behind the Stretton Centre and the Playford Library, you will find the Town Park, a one-stop shop for the whole family. Bring your bike, board or scooter and ride the skate bowl, enjoy the water play area in the warmer months, enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns, play on the two playgrounds and shoot some hoops on the basketball key.
Share adventuresoutdooryourwithus!
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11SportsEyre Park Womma Rd, Eyre Eyre Sports Park has it all – a nature playground, stuff to climb and quality facilities dedicated to rugby, soccer and cricket. Enjoy the grass bordered by towering palm trees.
7Central MiravalePark Saveiro Bvd, Angle Vale Slam-dunk on the basketball halfkey or squeeze in a workout on the fitness trail with the outdoor fitness equipment stations. There is also a pump track and a playground with an undercover tube slide, tower, rock climbing wall and nature play.
12Virginia Grove Play Park Coratina Rd, Virginia With spots for quiet contemplation, take a moment to relax under the sheltered picnic area. Then cross the bridge to the adjacent reserve, where bright orange fitness equipment spells out: V-I-R-G-I-N-I-A.
9Little Para Seed Orchard Main North Rd, Hillbank Council has developed this public seed orchard to allow the convenient, safe and rapid collection of high volumes of local-native seeds with minimal impact on remnant populations. The orchard showcases the original vegetation of the region. These local plants provide habitat and food sources that attract local native birds, insects and animals.
North entrance: Corner of Two Wells Road and Weaver Road, Gawler. South entrance: 26 Port Wakefield Road, Waterloo Corner. A shared-use bitumen trail running parallel to the Northern Expressway, which is flat and perfect for cycling or walking short and long distances. Highlights along the trail include the former Smithfield Magazines, which hail from the uncertain early years of WWII and were used to store munitions and explosives.
8Scenic throughdriveOne
10Stuart BikewayO’Grady
Waterplay at Playford Alive Town Park Smith Creek Trail
playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 19 Your questions answered
All vacant blocks are inspected at the start of the fire danger season in October by our Fire Prevention Officers. A notice is issued to property owners whose properties do not comply and pose a fire hazard. The blocks are re-inspected by our officers, and further notices, education and/or expiations can apply if the block remains a hazard. For properties with a dwelling, please contact us on 8256 0333 and lodge a report of the danger. How do I register for hard waste collection? Ready to do some spring cleaning? Playford residents receive two hard waste collections each financial year. This service is an at-home collection service, which is provided up to six weeks after contacting Northern Adelaide Waste Management Authority (NAWMA). You can contact NAWMA on 8259 2100 or register for a hard waste collection by visiting Inawma.sa.gov.au/hardwastewanttoremoveorprune a tree on my property. What do I need to know?
We receive questions all the time about the wide range of services Council provides to the community. Here are some answers to some of the common questions we receive.
Contact us 8256 reportandpay.playford.sa.gov.auPlayfordplayford.sa.gov.auplayford@playford.sa.gov.au0333OnlineServices
PNThis is Playford
First you need to identify if the tree is considered significant and/or regulated. The tree is significant if the trunk circumference is three metres or more (when measured one metre above natural ground level). It is a regulated tree if the trunk circumference is two metres or more (when measured one metre above natural ground level). If the tree on your property matches any of those descriptions, you will need to lodge an application via PlanSA before removal. You can carry out maintenance pruning on significant and/or regulated trees on branches or roots that are encroaching on your property without seeking approval – but only if it is not likely to affect the health or appearance the tree. Find further information by visiting plan.sa.gov.au Trees that are not identified as significant or regulated and are on private property are required to be maintained and/or removed by the property owner and no approval is required.
There is a privately owned vacant block that is overgrown with long grass. How do I report the fire hazard?
Upgraded footpaths and
Cr Gay Smallwood-Smith 0417 016 163 crgsmallwoodsmith@playford.sa.gov.au community of Virginia Main urban tree canopy 15 to 20 per cent, and actioned with due Jane Onuzans
from
Ward 2 individual concerns
Ward Two Ward two covers the suburbs of Munno Para Downs, Munno Para West, Munno Para, Smithfield and Blakeview; and part of the suburb of Hillier. I was happy to help oversee and watch the transformation of Fremont Park, creating a great all inclusive, all-abilities play area including changing places facilities. I look forward to seeing inclusivity as a key element of future upgrades.
I am proud that we have kept rates down (an average of below 2%) and to have reduced overall debt. We are here to do what is fiscally best for our residents and rate payers. I believe we have acted responsibly during this term.
0417
0432 251 207 creonuzans@playford.sa.gov.au
Cr Clint Marsh 0478 283 874 crcmarsh@playford.sa.gov.au
diligence. Cr
parks, the upgrading
Cr Stephen Coppins 0478 283 876 crscoppins@playford.sa.gov.au
Ward one covers the suburbs of Angle Vale, Buckland Park, Virginia, Eyre, Penfield, Penfield Gardens, MacDonald Park, Andrews Farm and Smithfield Plains; and part of the suburbs of Edinburgh North and Waterloo Corner.One
Ward
Being able to assist many residents with enquiries throughout the last four years, as well as having made decisions that will benefit the Playford community in the future.
Cr Cathy-Jo Tame 875 crcjtame@playford.sa.gov.au
I am proud to have worked alongside Councillors to deliver on core infrastructure upgrades and renewal. A focus that had been lost prior, and many areas were missing out on.
Having been able to actively engage in various forms with our community, hearing their concerns throughout the district and having had the ability to act and address these issues accordingly.
Cr Peter Rentoulis (Deputy Mayor) 016 146
crarentoulis@playford.sa.gov.au
0478 283
Elected Member chat
Street, increased
20 | playford.sa.gov.au PN Your Mayor & Councillors To come Mayor Glenn Docherty 0413 219 868 mayordocherty@playford.sa.gov.auQ: What are you proud to have achieved during this Council term?
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Cr Andrew Craig 0417 016 160 cracraig@playford.sa.gov.au
Cr Marilyn Baker 0418 836 685 crmbaker@playford.sa.gov.au
I am proud that we revitalised parks across Ward 5 – California Ave, Burdell Reserve, Fremont Park to name a few. Our sports strategy for all clubs, including upgrades at Argana Park and wins in connectivity – roads and footpaths.
Cr Shirley Halls 0419 866 872 crshalls@playford.sa.gov.au
Cr David Kerrison 0478 283 879 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.Ward Four Progress at Playford comes from considered debate and decisions, advocacy, listening to community needs, and realising a better city vision. For me, we have to keep building community capacity and managing resources wisely.
playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected
Councillor Ryan is available to Ward Four residents, his contact details can be found below.
Cr Katrina Stroet 0466 941 362 crkstroet@playford.sa.gov.au
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.Ward Three
I am proud of the Council’s attention to our greening and tree strategies, particularly in our older suburbs following community consultation in their local area and adopting their suggestions.
Cr Akram Arifi 0431 609 531 craarifi@playford.sa.gov.au
I am proud to see this Council prioritising essential services from upgrading neighbourhood parks, playgrounds, new footpaths and roads across the Council area and particularly in our older suburbs, adding value to our community.
I have been involved in ensuring the updating of our community footpaths, roads, community spaces and pushing for upgrading of our sports areas for the kids in the older areas and Playford as a whole.
I am proud to have worked alongside the many passionate community members in the City of Playford. This has supported me strongly with decisionmaking for community.
Cr Dennis Ryan 0417 016 167 crdryan@playford.sa.gov.au
Cr Misty Norris 0478 283 882 crmnorris@playford.sa.gov.auWardFive
Ward five covers the suburbs of Elizabeth Downs, Elizabeth Park, Elizabeth East and Elizabeth Grove; and part of the suburb of Craigmore.
Improved business plans, transparency, debt management, responsible spending to deliver downwards pressure on rates and improved service delivery. We still have room for improvement, however we are in better shape than four years ago.
Cr Veronica Gossink 0478 283 878 crvgossink@playford.sa.gov.au
I am proud that we have successfully upgraded a number of parks in local neighbourhoods, allowing families to use open space and playground equipment on a daily basis, while feeling safe.
For more information about local government elections head toBelga.sa.gov.au/council-electionsenrolled
Check you are enrolled to vote at check.aec.gov.au
This year’s election comes as Playford navigates an exciting period of growth, with decisions that are made today having an impact on the city for decades beyond.
Voting information will be sent directly to all enrolled voters from Friday 14 October, 2022. Open the envelope and vote
How to vote in your council election
Get ballotyourpack
playford.sa.gov.au
Post back your vote before 5pm, Thursday 10 November 2022.
Unlike State and Federal elections, voting in council elections is exclusively by post. Enrolled voters receive a voting package through the mail and cast their votes through the reply paid envelope.
As the saying goes, council is the level of government closest to the people. You can see the impact council makes in your community every day – rubbish is collected, books are borrowed from the library and parks and playgrounds are enjoyed by people in your Thisneighbourhood.Novemberis your chance to make a difference, by voting in the 2022 Local Government Election. Held every four years, local government elections give you a chance to shape the direction of your community by voting for the people you want to represent your views and make decisions.
Authorised by Sam Green, CEO, 12 Bishopstone Road, Davoren Park, SA 5113
22 |
Voting packs will be sent out from Friday 14 October. People are urged to cast their vote as soon as their pack is received, to avoid missing out on making a difference.
Vote local and make a difference
This will be sent to your postal address in October Fill out your ballot Fill out your ballot form and place in the reply paid envelope Post your vote Post your before envelope to ensure it is received by Thursday 10 November, 2022
Over the past 12 months, the City of Playford has conferred more 530 new citizens into the Playford community from countries such as Afghanistan, India and Syria.
After being separated by distance for seven years, they started their new life in Adelaide. Shortly after, the couple welcomed their daughter, Muhaddisa, followed by their two sons, Ali and Sami.
The opportunity to access education has opened Fatima’s eyes to what she described as “exploring the world.” She has completed a six-month new arrivals course with ongoing tutor support, as well as a Certificate III in Childcare.
“No one is stopped from the opportunity to learn, no matter your age,” she said.
Fatima is an active volunteer in the Playford community and dedicates a day each week to supporting the Grenville Hub in the Elizabeth CBD.
On 17 September we celebrate Australian Citizenship Day. The day is an opportunity for all Australians to reflect on the meaning and importance of Australian citizenship and the responsibilities and privileges we have.
“I cherish this country, it gave us a home and we can live here in peace,” she said. “I love this country; it is like no other.”
Fatima and her family embody that sentiment, opening their first business in 2018, a fish and chip takeaway restaurant in Davoren Park. She has since settled her family into a home at Munno Para West and is giving back to her new community.
“I need to also teach them what I know. This is me and this is where I came from because we live in a multicultural country. So, we can learn from each other, we can improve our knowledge.”
This is Playford New beginnings, new learnings
Fatima said her family felt very blessed to be in Australia and is extremely grateful for the communities that have supported them.
Fatima hopes to continue her education journey by completing year 11 and 12, as well as future aspirations to complete further education in business and nursing.
“Coming to Australia meant starting again, adjusting to the environment and learning English,” Fatima said. “I often tell myself how lucky I have been to be in contact with a lot of people who I’ve learned little things from. It has made my life experience more beautiful, and I value my life more.”
“We are very blessed to live in a safe community with lots of opportunities,” she said. “We need to give back and learn from the people.
Fatima became an Australian citizen 12 years ago and believes it’s important to remember and give back to a community that has provided her and her family so much.
Fatima Ahmadi moved to Australia from Afghanistan in 2008 to be with her husband, Gholam.
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For young tennis fans like Zavier, who lives in Andrews Farm, it is a chance to see elite athletes competing in his own backyard. The tournament has hosted players like reigning Wimbledon champion, Elena Rybakina (pictured right), who was runner up at the 2019 City of Playford Tennis International. As well as hosting elite tournaments, the Champs in action this October
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Zavier Morris has seen some big-name tennis players in action during his time. The nine-year-old has travelled to Adelaide – and beyond – to catch a glimpse of his favourite tennis stars. But this summer, the pros will come to him, with the City of Playford Tennis International returning to the Playford Tennis Centre at Elizabeth East. After a three-year hiatus, the tournament, which is part of the Australian Pro Tour, will be held from 24 October until 30 October.
It will be the fourth international men’s and women’s tournament hosted by the Playford Tennis Centre, which is a lead-in competition for the Australian Open.
Tennis Centre runs comprehensive junior development programs, social tennis and private lessons, creating pathways for young players to excel and encouraging players of all levels to participate.
City of Playford Tennis International 24-30 October 2022 Playford Tennis Centre 50 Spruance Rd, Elizabeth AdmissionEastisfree all week, with family-friendly entertainment like come-and-try, face painting and mini-tennis games complementing the on-court action.
Twilight Session Friday 28 October From 4pm Professional tennis semi-finals, family entertainment and off-court fun. Grab your friends and join the action after school or work on Friday night.
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“I’ve made lots of friends here through tennis,” said Zavier. “I love doing volleys and smashes and I’m working on improving my serves.” Keep up the great work Zavier – and who knows, we may just see your name in the draw at the City of Playford Tennis International in years to come!
This
is Playford
Benji, 10, and Tayah, 10, from Elizabeth Downs Primary School.
Virtual reality, real opportunity Opening the door to future career opportunities for primary and secondary students is at the heart of a new collaboration between the City of Playford’s Northern Sound System (NSS) and BAE Systems Australia.
The program, called CnVRg, focusses on skill development and will involve Playford primary and secondary schools co-designing a virtual reality experience to inspire and engage up to 100 students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning.
BAE Systems Australia CEO, Ben Hudson, said he wants to continue to inspire and develop a diverse future workforce, while building the confidence and skills of young people.
City of Playford Creative Cultural Development Manager, Lisa Baker, said NSS continued to build access and equity for young people in the community through STEM learning “Weopportunities.continueto build on the success of entry level creative industries skills training already on offer,” Lisa said. “It is important to prepare our young people for new jobs that are emerging because of technological advances, as well as current skill shortages. We are supporting our education partners in the way students learn, connect and interact every day.”
“Through CnVRg, we can help reinforce the importance of STEM learning through applied and interesting technology experiences,” Ben said. “We are committed to supporting the communities close to our sites and demonstrating the diverse job pathways that STEM studies can provide.”
The project will partner with young people from Playford International College and Elizabeth Downs Primary School in its first year, while supported by industry and education partners. If schools are interested in participating, please contact Northern Sound System on 8255 5560.
BAE Systems will also support the initiative with site tours and work experience opportunities, so students gain a greater understanding of the careers opportunities available to them.
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BAE Systems is the nation’s most diverse defence company and has had a presence in South Australia for almost 70 years. Its Edinburgh Parks facility employs around 1000 people, working in a broad range of roles from producing parts for F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft to upgrading critical defence CnVRginfrastructure.aimsto challenge a variety of problem-solving skills including non-verbal communication, pattern recognition, logical reasoning and innovation, while relying on a strong element of teamwork.
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The event will provide plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy with historic vehicles on display, vehicle rides, face-painting, balloon artists, inflatable games, as well as food and drink.
Jeff Pinney from the museum said preserving the vehicles honours the past.
The day will also place a focus on support services for veterans, recruitment education and fundraising opportunities.
For further information on the National Military Vehicle Museum and its Emergency Services Day event military-vehicle-museum.org.auvisit
Louise Culpin (pictured) started working at the museum a few years ago and was “hooked” by Australia’s military history.
Preserving Playford’s – and South Australia’s – military history is a role the National Military Vehicle Museum and its volunteers take Locatedseriously.in historic World War II era buildings within the defence precinct of Edinburgh Parks, the museum is home to up to 60 military vehicles.
“It’s not about glorifying war, but it gives people a better understanding,” Jeff said. “When we use these vehicles on parades, it brings back memories for some people who have operated them. It honours what took place, what happened with these vehicles in operation and it’s another part of the story.”
Louise and other volunteers are preparing to roll out the vehicles this spring, with the National Military Vehicle Museum hosting a community event on Sunday, 23 October in recognition of Emergency Services Day.
The day aims to acknowledge, support and educate the community on not only the history of emergency services, but the important role our first responders play in the community.
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“All of our first responders, both paid and volunteer, do so much for communities,” Louise said. “It would be difficult these days to find someone who has not been touched in some way by an event that’s required the assistance of one of Australia’s wonderful emergency services.”
At the recent unveiling of a plaque on the green room door, Matt’s brother, Wayne Byrne (pictured) and close friend Jeff Lang spoke of his dedication to bringing the arts to the north.
“Matt staged productions at numerous theatres, but he often said to me, ‘Mate, the Shedley is my home’.”
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Matt got his start in the industry in the 1970s as a performer with the Northern Light Theatre Company, regularly treading the boards at the Elizabeth-based theatre. He went on to become one of South Australia’s most renowned theatre producers and performers and after a 40-year career in the industry, continued to refer to The Shedley as “his home”.
“Matt would be touched and humbled by this honour,” Wayne said. “The plaque is a wonderful acknowledgement of Matt’s passion and perseverance to provide the theatre-loving people of the northern districts the opportunity to see world class shows at the Shedley.
A friend of 25 years and fellow theatre devotee, Jeff Lang first met Matt at a production of Grease by the Northern Light Theatre Company at The Shedley.
“Matt would want to acknowledge the many people that worked with him on the various productions. Without their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication the shows wouldn’t have been produced.”
Dedicating the green room to Matt, Mayor Glenn Docherty paid tribute.
The Shedley Theatre’s green room has been named in honour of long-time supporter and Adelaide arts identity, the late Matt Byrne.
“A side effect of being in a ‘Matt show’ was that he became part of your life, whether you wanted it or not,” Jeff said.
“Matt dedicated his life to theatre and the arts and inspired many people with his commitment,” the Mayor said. “Council is pleased to name our theatre’s green room in his memory. He is sorely missed.”
Tip of the cap to Matt
Mr Byrne passed away in 2021 aged 63.
PN What’s On Growing for Gold 2022 Growing for Gold encourages young people to try a variety of different activities in recreation and sport to help them find something they love. From AFL to archery, you might just find your next big hobby! Anyone who decides to join a club after participating in Growing for Gold will receive a $40 SportsPower voucher. 1-16 October | From FREE | Children 3-16 years Various growingforgold.com.aulocations Tree Tots Book Launch: Phil Cummings and Danny Snell Join the Library for a special book launch with Author Phil Cummings and Illustrator Danny Snell. They will be launching their latest book ‘The Garden on Red Gum Road’. Thursday 15 September | 10.30 to 12pm | FREE Children 2-5 years The Precinct 112 Coventry Road, Smithfield Piratesplayfordlibrary.eventbrite.cominPinkPants Proudly presented by the Grenville Players, this is an entertaining and hilarious show written and directed by John Skidmore. Light refreshments available with a $25 evening meal and show deal on Saturday. Thursday 13 to Saturday 15 October Thursday & Friday 1pm, Saturday 7pm | From $8 Grenville Hub, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth Sian Bisschop 8256 0377 Youth Hub Fridays A chance to try a range of sports with free court entry, or simply call in and hang out with friends. Snacks provided! First Friday of every month starting 2 September 4 to 6pm | Young people in Yr 7-12 | FREE John McVeity Centre 182 Peachey Rd, Smithfield Plains Playford Wellbeing Hub 8480 0100 30 | playford.sa.gov.au
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Playford Civic Function Centre – hire now! Book now to experience your next special event, workshop, conference or training seminar at the Playford Civic Centre Function Centre and Meeting Rooms. Located in the heart of the city. Playford Civic Centre Function Centre and Meeting Rooms, 10 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth theshedley.com.au | theatres@playford.sa.gov.au
providers. Thursday 17 November | 9am to 5pm Emma Werner 8256 0178 and NetworkingNorthernewerner@playford.sa.gov.auNDISProvider
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like-minded businesses. Thursday
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The Stretton Centre in Munno Para has established a series of networking help NDIS industry professionals share information connect with 29 to Stretton Centre Peachey Munno
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Defence Industry Day the success of the inaugural event this year’s Defence Industry Day will provide businesses with the opportunity to hear from, network with, some of the largest defence organisations responsible for developing training
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networking-29-september-2022events.humanitix.com/northern-ndis-provider-Para PNWhat’s On playford.sa.gov.au/stayconnected | 31 Become a PlaygroundPlayfordDetective Visit five of Playford’s parks in the October school holidays, become a detective and answer the questions to go in the draw to win 1 of 3 Lego VIDIYO sets valued at over $100 each! Every entry will receive a mini Lego set (whilst stocks last). Pick up your map and entry form at the John McVeity Centre. 1-16 October | FREE John McVeity Centre 182 Peachey Rd Smithfield Plains Playford Wellbeing Hub 8480 0100
8256 0333 | playford@playford.sa.gov.au playford.sa.gov.au Recyclable.
