Jenny Dean, SEAS artist from The Woodcutter exhibition, demonstrates how to make a basket. Come learn this fun skill with all materials supplied.
Suitable for ages 12+. No basket skills required.
© City of Mount Gambier 2017. All rights reserved.
Mount Gambier Library is excited to host beloved children’s author Mem Fox, for a discussion on the joy and importance of reading, on Thursday 8 May at 6.00pm at City Hall. 
Mem Fox is best known for her books such as Possum Magic, Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes, Where is the Green Sheep? and dozens of other beloved children’s stories. Starting as an ambassador for the Premier’s Reading Challenge in 2004, Ms Fox says her great passion is encouraging adults to read to the young children in their lives.
During her time in the Limestone Coast, Ms Fox will be visiting four schools in Mount Gambier and will also be presenting to adults at the City Hall event.
The Premier’s Reading Challenge now has over 120,000 students from 670 schools completing the Challenge each year. Manager
Premier’s Challenge Manager Mark Williams acknowledged Limestone Coast schools for their participation in the challenge over many years.
"The Premier’s Reading challenge is fortunate that Mem Fox visits schools across the state as an ambassador to promote the joy of reading. I am not sure who gets more excited about Mem visiting, the students or the adults,” Mr Williams said.
Premier’s Reading Challenge ambassadors play an important role in promoting the challenge. During the event Mem Fox will discuss the wide-ranging benefits of reading aloud to babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.
"It is all about the bonding, brain-development, the amazing language learning and the absolutely hysterical fun,” Ms Fox said.
“Mem is a legend in her field, it is such an honour to be able to host her as she shares her knowledge and passion for stories and reading and their associated benefits. Her visit supports the wonderful Words Grow Minds campaign that has been rolled out across the state promoting the importance of reading to children from birth,” Mrs Davison said.
This event is suitable for ages 16+ and focuses on the importance of reading to children from birth.
The event will also be available through a live stream to Mount Gambier Library’s Facebook page.
Bookings open 10 April 2025 through Mount Gambier Library.
For more information please contact Mount Gambier Library on (08) 8721 2540.
City of Mount Gambier is seeking community feedback on its proposed By-Laws - the powers enacted via the Local Government Act 1999 to set certain rules about the activities permitted, activities that require permission, and activities that are prohibited in the city.
“By-Laws are used, along with a range of other mechanisms, to ensure that residents and visitors to our Council area can enjoy a clean and safe city,” City of Mount Gambier Governance and Property Manager Brittany Shelton said.
Council currently regulates activity through five By-Laws, including:
By-Laws must be reviewed every seven years. The review includes the consideration of changes in relevant legislation and compliance requirements or activities of Council, and issues of significance to the community which may be reasonably regulated by a By-Law.
“When we undertook community consultation for the 2024 – 2028 Dog and Cat Management Plan in 2023, we heard quite clearly that there was a desire for Council to take a more active role in the management of cats.”
Following the community feedback, Council is proposing to the introduce a new Cats By-Law.
“There are four key inclusions in the proposed Cats By-Law, including making cat registration mandatory, creating a ‘nuisance offence’ which will include elements such as property damage, aggressive behaviour and wandering onto private property. It will also set a limit of two cats per household, and allow Council to put containment requirements in place, such as curfews in the future.”
Additional community consultation will occur before a proposed Cats By-Law is implemented, and not all suggested provisions will be enforced from the start date of the new By-Laws - 1 January 2026.
“We would want to give cat owners some time to get used to the changes, so there would be an initial transitional grace period to enable community education prior to any enforcement of the proposed new provisions,” Ms Shelton said.
Since the last time Council reviewed its By-Laws, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) advised it objects to regulations/conditions over activities occurring on, and in bodies of water being included in Council By-Laws, as these matters are already regulated under the Harbors and Navigation Act 1993, which is the responsibility of DIT (Marine Safety).
The current regulations for activity on and in the Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi imposed by DIT for Area 1, Area 2 and Area 3 are as follows:
“The balance of the lake does not have any prohibition on swimming or use of vessels. For the community, there is no changes to the current rules for Valley Lake/Ketla Malpi, they will simply be regulated by DIT (Marine Safety) rather than Council from 1 January 2026.”
“While Council will no longer have the authority to make By-Laws which regulate activities on and in the water, we will continue to regulate who can access the water via the boat ramp facilities.
Importantly, By-Laws cannot overlap onto subject matter which is already covered by Federal or State legislation.”
The Legislative Review Committee (LRC) recommends that councils consider modernising language used to describe gender on public amenities in Council’s Local Government Land By-Law, to ensure it does not discriminate against a person that identifies as transgender, intersex or gender diverse.
“The LRC’s preference is for By-Laws to use gender neutral language rather than gender specific language e.g. ‘unisex’ or ‘all-gender’, not exclusively ‘men’, ‘male’ or ‘women’, ‘female’,” Ms Shelton said.
“This is consistent with the model clauses provided in the ‘Inquiry into Local Government Land By-laws – Public Conveniences’ tabled in both Houses of Parliament on 28 September 2022.”
The By-Law review community consultation process will be conducted in two phases, aligned to how By-Laws operate:
“The current consultation is phase one, seeking feedback on the By-Laws themselves. Phase two of consultation will be conducted in the second half of 2025.”
Council invites community feedback by providing a submission to the proposed By-Law changes before 5:00pm on Monday 12 May 2025, by:
All submissions will be presented to Council for consideration at the June 2025 Council meeting. After submissions are considered, Council will make amendments in accordance with legal advice, and endorse the final By-Laws for adoption.
A rehoming partnership agreement between City of Mount Gambier and South East Animal Welfare League (SEAWL) has been extended until 31 March 2029. 
Council impounds lost dogs at its holding facility approved by the Dog and Cat Management Board for the legislated holding period of 72 hours and beyond. Dogs are then transferred to SEAWL as one of Council’s rehoming partners.
Council has four rehoming partnerships currently in place, including SEAWL, Wet Noses Animal Rescue, Dusty Paws Dog Rescue and Grampians Shire Council.
“We’re seeing more dogs being safely returned to their owners than ever before, with 81 per cent of all collected dogs reunited with their families over the past 18 months. That’s a really positive trend and reflects both our team’s hard work and the responsiveness of our community,” City of Mount Gambier General Manager Corporate and Regulatory Services Jane Fetherstonhaugh said.
“For those dogs that aren’t reclaimed, our rehoming efforts, especially through SEAWL, have played a vital role. Since June 2024, 87 per cent of all rehomed dogs were successfully placed via SEAWL, showing the value of that partnership.”
All dogs receive a veterinary check, microchip and vaccination prior to transfer to a rehoming partner, in accordance with Council’s Unclaimed Dog Policy.
“Ultimately, our goal is to give every dog the best chance at a safe and happy outcome—whether that’s back home with their owner or into a new forever home,” Mrs Fetherstonhaugh said.
City of Mount Gambier is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from electric scooter (e-scooter) mobility operators to trial a public e-scooter fleet in Mount Gambier for 12 months.
E-scooters offer a sustainable alternative transport option for short journeys and daily commutes. The Statutes Amendment (Personal Mobility Devices) Act 2024 enables e-scooters and other personal mobility devices to be ridden on roads and in public areas once the associated regulations are adopted and published this year.
“Subject to the EOI identifying and engaging a successful operator, the trial would involve Council issuing a permit to operate a trial. The operator would then deploy e-scooters in the public domain across the city, which could be hired for temporary use. It is envisaged that the system would operate in much the same manner as public e-scooter fleets operate in other towns and cities,” City of Mount Gambier Manager Economy, Strategy and Engagement Biddie Shearing said.
The call for an e-scooter trial is a resolution of Council from September 2024, and will test whether a commercial e-scooter fleet may or may not become a long term transport alternative for the local community.
Information gathered from the trial would provide Council with a greater understanding of possible engagement with micro-mobility transport options into the future.
“A local working group would be established to support the trial period including a range of stakeholders with different interests attached to the trial. The working group would meet regularly with Council staff, the operator and other relevant stakeholders to assess progress and respond to any potential or emerging issues,” Ms Shearing said.
“There will be several factors that would need to be assessed as part of the trial, including transport behaviours of both residents and businesses, management of public safety, user participation, permit terms, conditions and management responsibilities and general community support for the program.”
If the EOI achieves a suitable collaborative project partner, Council intends for the trial to operate for a period of 12 months.
Expressions of Interest close on 17 April 2025.
Media contact: City of Mount Gambier Media and Communications Coordinator Sharny McLean on 0413 798 327 or smclean@mountgambier.sa.gov.au
Trudi felt compelled to help those in need when she was working in pastoral care at North Gambier Primary School in 2016.
“I identified that children were not dressed appropriately for winter, they were cold and they needed coats, jumpers and shoes,” Trudi said.
“So, I went home and cleaned out my four children's wardrobes and donated their old clothes, which of course wasn't enough, so I asked my friends to do the same.”
The uniform drive sparked the creation of a Facebook group ‘Mount Gambier winter wear for kids in need’. Word about the initiative spread quickly and Trudi soon had enough warm clothing to provide for children at nine local schools.
“My children and I literally lived around piles of clothes because we touched every article of clothing to make sure that it was okay to be passed on and then we did all the deliveries,” she said.
The Facebook group soon evolved to provide clothing and food to those in need, which prompted a name change to ‘Mount Gambier community of helping hands’.
In 2017, Trudi was the recipient of a Women in Business and Regional Development community leader award for her dedication to provide for the less fortunate within the community, with a cash prize of $1,000.
“I used that money as seed funding to become incorporated. The name was too long, so we had to think of another one. My children are the reason I never gave up, so I called it ‘Four Reasons Why’ and we became incorporated with members of a board. – 4RW turned seven in November in 2024.”
Four Reasons Why provides support, assistance, and opportunities to local people in need. This includes the provision of good condition pre-loved items, brand new goods, winter clothing and footwear, drink bottles, sports equipment and memberships for local children, families and individuals experiencing hardship. All donations stay within the local community.
Trudi’s passion, understanding and empathy for others in need stems from her own personal experience of hardship and trauma.
“I know how tough life situations can be at times. I was five months pregnant with my fourth child when my partner left, and I was unable to work with three small children at home. It was neighbours, friends and family that stepped in to get us through.”
“It takes the village to raise a child, but it also takes that same village to rebuild their broken mum.”
Now that Trudi is back on her feet, her firm focus is supporting others in need to get back on theirs.
“I reconciled with myself that I can't give back to whoever gave to me, but one day when I can, I will. I had no idea it was going to be this big, it has been a beautiful organic, surprising journey.”
Trudi sees herself as a traffic controller to connect those who want to give with those in need of receiving.
Trudi feels honoured to receive the City of Mount Gambier 2025 Citizen of the Year award.
“It is very humbling and unexpected and a lovely surprise. It’s difficult to receive accolades, but I am very grateful, and it is nice to be acknowledged.”
Mount Gambier man Rodney Summers has made remarkable contributions to the local community throughout his life. Rodney is deeply committed to volunteering and generously gives his time and energy to support various community organisations and sit on local boards and committees.
Husband to Judy and father of five children: Michael, Kate, Naomi, Anthony and Amanda, Rodney juggled a busy home and work life as a well-known local postman delivering mail for Australia Post from 1965 until he retired in 2008.
“I always said that I would do some volunteer work when I retired and had some spare time, so I got involved with Rotary and my involvement on other boards and committees snowballed from there,” Rodney said.
‘When you work at the post office as a postie you're always in the community anyway, so to me, it wasn't a big jump.”
Rodney joined the Mount Gambier Lakes Rotary Club in 2009 and provided leadership through various roles including President (2018/2019 and 2021/2022), Vice President and Secretary. Under his guidance, the club undertook many community projects, supported local initiatives, and helped those in need. Rodney can usually be found front and centre at Rotary events greeting people at the Australia Day breakfast, the Mount Gambier Fun Run, market days and the Mount Gambier Christmas Parade.
“I love to speak to people, once I start, the eggs or chips I’m cooking might not be turned because I’m too busy talking,” he joked.
“I get a buzz out of that too, because there's nothing better than seeing a smile on people's faces.”
In 2022 Rodney was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship by Rotary International. The prestigious award is given to individuals who significantly contribute to Rotary values and demonstrate outstanding service to the community.
Rodney was one of the founding members of Sunset Community Kitchen in 2008 and has since dedicated time as a cook and currently on the committee as Treasurer. He said the initiative not only provides meals for those in need, but also creates a sense of community and belonging among volunteers and those who use the service.
“When we first started, we used to have a sit down meal for our clients, that way it was a more socialised experience for them. But, when COVID came along and we sadly couldn't do that anymore and moved to packaged food that people could take home,” Rodney reflected.
Rodney joined the board of the Mount Gambier Community Bendigo Bank in 2009, serving as Vice Chairman and a member of the Sponsorship Committee. His efforts help to facilitate funding for local projects and initiatives to enhance the living standards of the local community.
“I love giving out money, and we provide grants three times a year. It’s rewarding to go to a function and hand out a couple of thousand dollars in cash to the recipients to go towards a good cause,” he said.
Rodney is chairman of the Mount Gambier Tertiary Health Scholarship Committee which administers grants to support local students pursuing health-related careers away from home, ensuring that the next generation of health professionals receive financial assistance to help them succeed on their path.
“It’s amazing how many people come back to Mount Gambier once they realise the lifestyle advantages we have here. We really want to support our young people to return to the area and use their skills if they wish to do so.”
Rodney is a member of the Stand Like Stone Small Grants Committee, with an aim to foster educational and cultural development within the community, to enable local groups and individuals to access vital funding for projects.
The sports fan served as a tribunal member for the Western Border Football League and Mount Gambier and District Baseball League. He contributes to maintaining fair play and sportsmanship within local sports, promoting the benefits of teamwork and community involvement.
“I played cricket for West, played baseball for Federals, coached the Mount Gambier side, umpired baseball and then I was asked to join the tribunal and I was happy to do that,” he said.
Rodney was involved with the West Gambier Football Club from 1974 to 2000 in various positions where he aimed to create opportunities for local athletes and promote physical activity and community spirit through sport.
Rodney suffered a heart attack in 2017 and consequently underwent a five-way bypass. His doctor recommended he start walking to improve his health, so he came out of retirement and took up an offer from Australia Post to walk the main street delivering mail to businesses for three hours, five days a week.
“Every time I walk the main street, I probably say good morning 200 times a day, and to me, that's good,” he said.
Rodney eventually plans to retire once again and spend time with the light of his life, his first grandchild Leo.
“I never thought that at 75 years old that I’d have a grandchild, so when he came along he brought a new purpose and meaning to my life, he’s amazing.”
Rodney is humble about his efforts to give back to the community and says he continues to do so simply because he enjoys it.
“I've never regretted volunteering and I've met a lot of wonderful people and made many friends,” he said.
Brad Hann is a local podcaster passionate about promoting physical activity as a way to enhance mental health and overall wellbeing among young people. Recognised by his peers as a role model, Brad actively engages with local sports clubs, including soccer, basketball and hockey, inspiring people within the community.
Brad and his friend Thomas established a podcast 'Yarns of Rubbish' in July 2022 with a focus on local issues and events around Mount Gambier.
The benefits of sport and physical activity to combat mental health issues and promote wellbeing in young people is often a topic of discussion on the podcast.
“I've had mates that have had nothing to do in winter and I try to get them engaged and convince them to come and play social sport,” Brad said.
The 22 year old recruited players for West Hockey Club, encouraging friends who had never played hockey before to participate in the division 3 team. As a division 1 player himself, Brad coached the under 16 boys in addition to the division 3 squad.
Division 3 lost the first five games of the competition, but with Brad coaching and developing the new players, their game improved and the team made the grand final following a four-game winning streak. They were ultimately defeated 2 - 0.
Brad received the West Hockey Club Person of the Year award for his contribution, dedication and efforts to grow and develop players along with his support of the club with bar and canteen duties.
The Yarns podcast brand has now evolved to include social sporting teams, with more than 30 new players involved in sport within the community, developing camaraderie, a sense of belonging and the courage to have a go at different sports.
“We've got three men's basketball teams, a women’s basketball team and an indoor soccer team. We're now looking at doing touch football and volleyball as well. If we could get a team in every single social sport, that would be incredible," Brad said.
Men's social basketball team ‘Yarns’ was put together in the summer season of 2023/2024, played on Tuesday nights. Brad designed uniforms and sought sponsors for the team, which grew to two by the winter season - Yarns Pink and Yarns Blue.
The two Yarns teams competed for a spot in the final. Yarns Pink made the final and trailed three quarters of the game to then come from behind and win the premiership.
Brad also volunteers at the local community radio station 5GTR FM as a program announcer once a week and voices commercials for sponsors to help keep the organisation running.
Brad encourages other young people to be active and engaged within the community.
Brad is honoured to receive the City of Mount Gambier Young Citizen of the Year award.
“Winning this award is awesome, it’s unexpected, but it’s really cool and I’m incredibly grateful,” Brad said.
The Mount Gambier Family Truck Show began as the annual Toy Run, including a convoy of trucks that travel from Penola to Mount Gambier delivering toys to children and families in need. The initiative evolved into the Family Truck Show, which features a display of gleaming local and interstate trucks at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds. The event also provides free activities for children and entertainment for the whole family. 
About 4,500 people typically attend the annual event, with 93 trucks involved in the convoy from Penola to Mount Gambier.
“The truck drivers are up polishing their trucks at 3:00am – 4:00am in the morning to make sure they are ready to roll in to Mount Gambier for the families and children eagerly waiting to see them by the roadside,” Mount Gambier Family Truck Show Committee Member Alex Moreland said.
“The drivers bring toys with them and they are donated to children in need. The trucks make their way to the Mount Gambier Showgrounds and park up for closer inspection by the crowds.”
The event is organised and run by a hard-working committee of volunteers, with the aim to provide a fun and memorable family outing that is accessible for everyone.
“It is an affordable day out for families, so once they pay the gold coin donation to get in at the gate at the showgrounds, all the children’s activities are free,” Committee Member Haydn McPherson said.
“There’s a jumping castle, inflatable bungee run, laser tag, giant sandpit with toys, a trike ride inside hay bales, colouring, face painting, scavenger hunt and of course Santa giving out lollies to children,” Secretary Michelle Nicholls said.
The event receives generous support from local community sponsors and the transport and forestry industry to ensure it gets bigger and better every year.
“Local dealerships bring vehicles along such as trucks, utes, boats and caravans, forestry simulators, forestry units, tractors, old steam engines, speedway vehicles and go karts. Local emergency services take part, including Police, Ambulance, Fire Service, NHVR and CFS units.”
“This event is one of a kind, it allows people to get up close and personal with trucks that they see around the area embedded within the local transport and forestry industry,” Michelle said.
Since 2017, the Mount Gambier Family Truck Show has raised about $75,000 for local charities to assist less fortunate families during the festive season throughout the Limestone Coast.
“We’ve given funds to ac.care, Sunset Kitchen, Four Reasons Why, the Mount Gambier Community Christmas Luncheon, Spare Ya Change for Kids, Foodbank, the Salvation Army and Gordon Education just to name some of them,” Michelle said.
The Mount Gambier Breast Cancer Awareness Group raise funds to support local people on their breast cancer journey. Since launching the initiative in 2012, the group has distributed 483 ‘Helping Handbags’ valued at $1,000 each to assist with everyday expenses like groceries, fuel, and pharmacy needs. Additionally, the group established a lymphoedema service in Mount Gambier, providing early intervention and local treatment.
The group was originally formed in 2000 by Mount Gambier woman Leanne Kosch and Tantanoola’s Kay Holloway. The women planned a luncheon to raise funds for breast cancer awareness which later evolved into ‘The Pink Party’, a fundraising event held annually since 2013.
The helping handbag initiative began after local woman Maria Knightly joined the group in 2010.
“At that time, we were hosting a lunch at The Commodore and the funds that we raised didn’t stay local within the community. I really wanted to run with the idea of locals helping locals, so in 2012 I created the Helping Handbag and I took the idea to the committee and the breast care nurse at the time, and they got on board with it. We started distributing our first bags that were valued at $300 in November 2012 and it has just grown from there,” Maria said.
“We often receive written feedback or cards from patients thanking us for the vouchers they receive. They state that it feels like someone else cares, and that is exactly why we all volunteer our time for this group, we do all care,” Breast Cancer Awareness Group Committee Member Jill Gilmore said.
Local breast cancer survivor Linda Hay is one example of a life that was touched by the efforts of the group.
The group of 13 women host a highly successful annual fundraiser The Pink Party at the Mount Gambier Racecourse each year - a night to celebrate life in a supportive atmosphere. The event raised a record $27,000 in 2024.
“All the money comes to us from the community, we spend it at local businesses, they give us discount on the vouchers we purchase from them, they are quite generous, and then we give them to the McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Dana Mulraney who discreetly gives them to the patients at their first appointment,” Jill said.
The group’s ongoing fundraising efforts resulted in a healthy bank balance, so in 2019 the ladies decided to spend more than $70,000 to establish a local lymphoedema service.
“Local people that are diagnosed with lymphoedema need treatment and early intervention and this service wasn’t available in Mount Gambier.”
“We put a call out to physiotherapists to see if anyone was interested and Shelley Blachut-Jevtic was, so we paid for her training in Brisbane and Melbourne and set her up with a state-of-the-art diagnostic machine and a portable laser treatment machine. The diagnostic machine can pre-diagnose if you are likely to be susceptible to lymphoedema. We also purchased a diagnostic machine for the Mount Gambier Hospital,” Jill said.
“This service enables early intervention for everybody, not just for those with breast cancer, but for all local people with compromised immune systems as a public and private service.”
The group is honoured to be presented with the City of Mount Gambier Active Citizenship Award.
“We are humbled to win this award, we’re not looking for recognition, we’re quiet achievers, but we certainly appreciate this and we acknowledge the work of our former members who supported the cause along the way,” committee member Loraine Baron said.
The City of Mount Gambier Australia Day Breakfast and Citizen of the Year Awards presentation will be held on Sunday 26 January at the Cave Garden/Thugi.
The event will commence at 7:30am with breakfast provided by the Lakes Rotary Club of Mount Gambier which is available to purchase for $10.00 for adults and $7.00 for children, with all proceeds donated back to the community.
Entertainment begins at 7:30am with family friendly activities such as a jumping castle, henna and eco glitter tattoos and wildlife demonstrations by Australian Bush Buddies.
The event will be interpreted on stage in Auslan, the language of the Australian deaf community. In addition, accessible matting will be laid on the lawn, allowing better wheelchair access for attendees.
Founder of the Anxiety Disorders Association South East (ADASE) Helen Williams will launch her book ‘The Jigsaw Within My Mind’ on Thursday 1 May at 1:30pm at City Hall.
Having lived experience with anxiety and depression, Helen received many visits from community members eager to seek her advice while running her business locally in the 1990s.
“More and more people would come into my shop to see me. I understood what people were going through and was essentially the middle person between them and the Anxiety Disorders Foundation in Adelaide. Through frequent contact with the foundation, I was encouraged to start my own association in the South East,” Helen explained.
In 1993 Helen founded the Anxiety Disorders Association South East (ADASE) where she worked tirelessly advocating for those suffering from anxiety and depression until the closure of the support service in 2016 due to a lack of funding.
Throughout this time Helen dedicated her life to fundraising to bring professionals to the region who would provide workshops to both professionals and sufferers.
“My very first session at the old Mount Gambier Hospital had more than 100 people attend. That is a lot of people at a time when mental health wasn’t spoken so freely about,” Helen said.
With the demand to help more community members, Helen went on to study and became a qualified trainer and assessor with a Diploma in Community Services Mental Health. This enabled Helen to develop her own program called ‘A Great Step Forward’ modelled on the renowned book ‘Mind Over Mood’ based on cognitive behaviour therapy. This pathway to recovery was delivered by Helen twice weekly and saw more than 3,000 people receive help locally.
“The program was accredited by Flinders University and attracted nationwide attention as it was the first of its kind in Australia. While the program had a success rate of over 70%, it benefited not just those directly suffering from anxiety and depression but their families as well,” Helen said.
Despite Helen’s best efforts in maintaining the association, and being awarded Citizen of the Year for her dedication to the cause, unsuccessful attempts to gain government funding saw the closure of the Anxiety Disorders Association South East in 2016.
“Since the closure, people still seek me out for help. I decided to do one last thing and write this book so that more people can apply the basic skills they need to assist in their road to recovery,” Helen said.
The Jigsaw Within My Mind will be launched by Flinders University Head of Psychiatry Professor Malcolm Battersby and books will be available for sale at the free event. To book your spot, contact Mount Gambier Library on (08) 8721 2540 or online at www.mountgambier.sa.gov.au/Library under ‘Programs and Events’.
City of Mount Gambier invites Expressions of Interest (EOI) for community activation of the Lady Nelson site with a view to house local creative industries and/or historic collections.
Located at 35 Jubilee Highway East and currently housing the Mount Gambier Visitor Centre, the Lady Nelson site has the capacity to complement and add value to other activities, organisations and services across the city.
Recent changes to Council’s visitor servicing model will see the hub of tourism services vacating the site to relocate to the Main Corner in the CBD, creating a unique opportunity for the Lady Nelson to realise a new community outcome.
City of Mount Gambier General Manager People, Place and Liveability Chris White said the activation proposition has arisen following ongoing discussions with the creative community which revealed a need for a fit for purpose gallery/maker’s space in Mount Gambier that provides a place where artists can create and connect with each other and the broader community.
“We also know there are groups in the community who aspire to a place for the preservation and presentation of historic collections. We welcome Expressions of Interest from these groups, or even joint proposals from multiple groups who may see this as an opportunity to realise a shared vision for community use of the space,” Mr White said.
“In recognising this aspiration and community need, and in line with Council’s Strategic Plan, expressions of interests are now invited for ongoing activation of the Lady Nelson site once the visitor servicing hub has relocated to the CBD.”
The request for Expressions of Interest will be an initial market-sounding process and is being conducted for the purpose of considering the breadth of potential activation from within the creative industries sector and/or historic collections management, while also allowing Council to prioritise systems required to consider and facilitate commercial activity in and around this site in the future.
Closing on Wednesday 30 April 2025, stage one of the EOI process invites the submission of concepts for the use and activation of the site.
“In order to proceed to the second stage, proposals must demonstrate engagement with a broad spectrum of the community that focuses on inclusivity, sustainability and growth in the creative sector that serves residents and engages visitors of Mount Gambier,” Mr White said.
Enjoy a gathering of hot rods enthusiast for social time.
Valentines Rod Run 2025 is held over 3 days with various activities for registered participants.
On Sunday 09/02/2025 the Mount Gambier swap meet for cars, parts and auto related collectables starts at 7:00am and is held at Malseed Park.
Show 'n' Shine for enthusiast/owners to display cars and bikes starts at 10:00am - 1:00pm.
Dawn Service held to commemorate ANZAC Day. To Honour those men and women who have and still are serving in our armed and emergency services.
9:00am Air Force Service, Airmen's graves at Lake Terrace Cemetery. To Honour those airmen who lost their lives locally while at the training school WW2.
9:00am Boer War Service at the Boer War Memorial on corner of Bay Road and Lake Terrace West. To Honour those who participated in the Boer War.
10:00am March Assembly, Old Town Hall, 10:10am Street March and Mid-morning Service - Town Hall to Vansittart Soldiers Memorial. To Honor those men and women who have and still are serving in our armed and emergency services.
Mid-Morning Service - Vansittart Gardens - Soldiers War Memorial - Commercial Street West.
The annual Mount Gambier and District Tertiary Health Education Grants (THEG) program is now open for 2025, offering $2,000 grants to local applicants pursuing tertiary health-related studies.
The program supports students who need to leave the region to undertake specific university studies within the health sector and seeks to encourage their return to the region as skilled health professionals upon completion of their studies. The grants are available to applicants for use towards study-related travel, accommodation, textbooks and uniform.
THEG chairman Rodney Summers says the program is in its 18th year of assisting students who hail from the region.
“The Mount Gambier and District Tertiary Health Education Grants have been offered every year since 2007 as a community-led response to meeting essential skills shortages within the local health sector.”
“In 2024 15 grants were provided to students who studied in different health areas, including medicine, prosthetics and orthotics, physiotherapy, psychology, occupational therapy, and paramedic science,” Mr Summers said.
2024 recipient Jack O’Connor, who is currently studying a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) in Adelaide, said the grant enabled him to dedicate more time to his studies.
“The grant has significantly assisted me in experiencing less financial stress throughout the year and allowed me to spend more time focussing on my studies, without having to work significant hours throughout the week,” Jack said.
2017 and 2021 grant recipient Emma Greenfield has returned to the region following seven years in Melbourne. She studied Medicine at Monash University and completed her internship and residency in Melbourne hospitals. Emma is currently working as a GP at Hawkins Clinic while completing her general practice specialist exams this year.
“While completing my studies in Melbourne, I attended hospital placements five days a week, a 45-minute drive from where I lived so the grant helped with the petrol money to do this and contributed to my rent while living away from home. This gave me the financial security to focus on my studies,” Emma said.
“Receiving the grant strengthened my desire to return home to work in the country where I hope to improve the health inequalities that exist in regional Australia.”
The program is supported by City of Mount Gambier, District Council of Grant, UFS Chemist, Flinders Rural Health SA, Mount Gambier and District Community Bank, Rotary Club of Mount Gambier Lakes and private donors.
Mount Gambier Legends Baseball Club are holding their annual baseball carnival from Friday 25 April until Sunday 27 April at Blue Lake Sports Park.
Come along and appreciate this free event over the whole weekend.
For more information contact 0419 841 641 or email mtgambierlegendsbaseball@gmail.com or follow us on our socials.
Local author Beth Delos Santos will launch her two books ‘Bethany, In the After: Embracing the Beauty in Letting Go' and 'Bethany, In the Before: A Journey of Love, connection and Becoming’ on Saturday 3 May at 11:00am at Mount Gambier Library.
The two books explore the depths of love, loss and self-discovery with a poetic and reflective voice. They are personal, raw and deeply introspective, written for anyone who has ever loved, lost, and found themselves in the process.
“For anyone who has ever loved deeply and had to let go, for anyone who has sat in the loneliness of healing, for anyone who has wondered why something so brief could leave such a lasting mark, my intimate writing will help you look at what it means to mourn, to remember and to slowly step into the life waiting on the other side of goodbye,” Ms Delos Santos said.
Through her writing, Bethany embraces the beauty of letting go, the strength found in solitude, and the quiet transformation that comes with moving forward. Her work will resonate with those navigating love’s complexities, offering comfort, understanding, and the gentle reminder that every ending carries the seed of a new beginning.
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Join us for a vibrant day filled with cultural performances
delicious food and fun activities for all ages
This event celebrates the rich diversity of our community and is a fantastic way to spend time with family and friends
What to expect: Cultural Performances & Live Music: Enjoy performances from local and international artists showcasing traditional music and dance
henna and glitter tattoos and giant outdoor games for the little ones
Basket Weaving: Learn a traditional craft and get creative with others
Live Singing & Dancing: Watch exciting live performances that will get you moving
Food & Catering: Free Food Vouchers (Limited Availability) and a wide range of food vendors will be offering delicious meals for purchase
Extras: Goodie Bags & Giveaways: Exciting prizes to be won
Relax & Enjoy: Bring a seat or deck chair for a laid-back day in the park
This event is proudly supported by the Limestone Coast Community Connections team
The Australian Migrant Resource Centre & the City of Mount Gambier
Mount Gambier's Fantasy Medieval Fair Returns for a Weekend of Enchantment and Adventure
Mount Gambier is set to transform into a realm of knights
and mystical wonders as the award-winning Fantasy Medieval Fair returns to the Mount Gambier Showgrounds on April 5 and 6
promises an unforgettable experience for families
Visitors will step back in time and immerse themselves in a world of medieval combat
Interactive experiences include longbow archery
and lively village reenactments showcasing medieval life
The fair features over 80 themed merchants offering unique wares
from handcrafted weaponry and armour to period-inspired clothing and mystical trinkets
A feast fit for royalty awaits with an array of street food vendors
while the tavern serves up traditional mead
harpists and musicians will perform traditional medieval melodies
while roving entertainers and a classic Punch and Judy puppet show will delight children and adults alike
Attendees are encouraged to embrace the medieval spirit by dressing in costume
with a competition rewarding the best-dressed participants
Whether you're here to cheer on the jousters
or simply soak up the enchanting atmosphere
there’s something for everyone to enjoy," say the event organisers
Mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend of adventure at Mount Gambier’s Fantasy Medieval Fair
Tickets are available online and at the gate
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this spectacular journey to the past
When their children began to lose their sight
blind mother Eveline and husband Boniface struggled to cope—until life-changing cataract surgery from The Fred Hollows Foundation brought hope and vision back to their family
THE Fred Hollows Foundation is thanking the Mount Gambier community for their support during a challenging time for the international development sector
The Foundation has seen 10 new donors from Mount Gambier support their work
In total 128 people from Mount Gambier have donated $42,832 in the past year
helping continue the late Professor Fred Hollows’ vision of ending avoidable blindness
a young mother from Kenya’s Siaya County received the life-changing gift of sight
along with her children – two-year-old Vincent and seven-year-old Ruth
with blindness affecting Eveline’s ability to work and their children’s education
Thanks to supporters of The Fred Hollows Foundation
regaining not just their vision but also their independence
Vincent can run and play like any other child
and Eveline has regained her ability to provide for the family
“The miraculous vision has brought us more than just clear sight – it has brought us hope
This extraordinary transformation highlights the power of sight-restoring surgery
proving that generosity and accessible eye care can rewrite lives
Founding Director Gabi Hollows expressed her gratitude to the Mount Gambier community for supporting The Foundation’s important work
“In these challenging times marked by rising costs of living
I want to take a moment to reflect on the countless people whose lives have been transformed after having their sight restored thanks to the generosity of everyday Australians
“Fred used to say that we discover our own humanity when we help others
is a step towards a world where no person is needlessly blind
“It could be a mother returning to the workforce
a grandparent seeing their grandchild for the first time
for your generosity in helping us restore sight to those who need it most,” Gabi said
The Foundation partners with several organisations to improve access to eye care in regional areas including the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands
The Foundation aims to perform 3.8 million eye screenings
distribute 12.8 million doses of antibiotics for trachoma
and run community health education sessions for 1.2 million adults and children globally
For more information about The Fred Hollows Foundation or to help restore sight, visit <a href="http://www.hollows.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.hollows.org</a> or call 1800 352 352
Watch Eveline, Ruth and Vincent&#8217;s story here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1POeIXCaIuE" data-rel="lightbox-video-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1POeIXCaIuE</a>
<a href="https://adelaideuni.edu.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a>
Learn more about South Australia's new university for the future
PIRSA regional development lead Peta Crewe is joining the <a href="/">University of South Australia</a> to head up its Mount Gambier campus as new Regional Manager
Crewe&rsquo;s connection to the Limestone Coast region spans a quarter of a century including roles in government
and on strategic working groups and committees
for SA&rsquo;s Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA)
where she oversees regional development across 11 regional offices
Crewe will commence in her UniSA role on 3 March
UniSA Vice Chancellor Professor David Lloyd is delighted to welcome her to the University community
&ldquo;Peta has an outstanding track record delivering successful regional programs and addressing the key issues in regional communities
and community capacity building,&rdquo; Prof Lloyd says
&ldquo;Her experience and connections in the Limestone Coast region
will be a great asset to our University and the local community.&rdquo;
Mount Gambier&rsquo;s current Regional Manager
will retire on 14 March after eight years in the role
&ldquo;Ian has been a wonderful advocate and ambassador for UniSA and has made a significant impact in the Mount Gambier community,&rdquo; Prof Lloyd says
&ldquo;UniSA&rsquo;s regional engagement and connections to the Mount Gambier community have greatly expanded under Ian&rsquo;s leadership
I thank him for his contributions and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.&rdquo;
Crewe has an agriculture degree from the University of Adelaide and a Master in Forest Science
Her previous roles include PIRSA's regional coordinator for the Limestone Coast
Among her many community roles and professional memberships
she is team manager for the Blue Lake Soccer Club&rsquo;s Senior Women&rsquo;s team
Media contact: Megan Andrews M: +61 434 819 275 142 E: <a href="mailto:megan.andrews@unisa.edu.au">megan.andrews@unisa.edu.au</a>
UniSA champion of multiculturalism takes out top SA Governor award
First Nations language celebrated at Kaurna Day with new songbook 
Trailblazing UniSA programs take out national awards
<a href="tel:+61-8-8302-2376">08 8302 2376</a>
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&gt;<a href="/about-unisa/keycontacts/" style="text-decoration: underline;">Australian contact details</a>
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UniSA respectfully acknowledges the Kaurna
Boandik and Barngarla First Nations Peoples and their Elders past and present
who are the First Nations&rsquo; Traditional Owners of the lands that are now home to our campuses in Adelaide
This event will be held at the Velodrome located at the Blue Lake Sports Park Mount Gambier
The annual 4-day showjumping carnival hosting 2 showjumping rings
The event starts from 8:00am each of the 4 days
Finish times will vary depending on class numbers
The 2024 New Years Eve Festival is a great
family friendly community event to celebrate the end of 2024 and start of the 2025 New Year
With a great lineup of artists and something for all
from easy listening to aboriginal reggae band
modern funk Melbourne artist and our very own local rapper
Family friendly activities with jumping castles
glitter and balloon art (all kids activities are free)
the kids will sure to be entertained all night
Lots of different food vendors from coffee vans to sweets
Tickets available now online or at the gate on the night
Bestselling Australian author Nicole Alexander is set to return to Mount Gambier Library with her latest release The Limestone Road on Wednesday 9 April at 7:00pm
As the author of 12 bestsellers published internationally
Manager Library and Community Development Georgina Davison says Nicole is known for her captivating depictions of historical rural Australian life
“Nicole’s novels weave together historical detail and emotional depth
drawing readers into beautifully crafted narratives that linger long after the final page," Mrs Davison said
With Nicole last holding an author event in Mount Gambier 10 years ago
she makes a welcome return to the region with her latest book having a local connection
“The last time we hosted Nicole was in 2015 for the release of Wild Lands
a fabulous multilayered story set in Australia in the early 1800s
we have been eagerly awaiting the release of The Limestone Road
with Nicole spending time here in our very own library and the Limestone Coast region bringing the story to life,” Mrs Davison said
Set in the summer of 1944 The Limestone Road is a poignant story that delves into a father-son relationship with a rural South Australian backdrop
Returning soldiers Canning Christie and his father Michael arrive in South Australia from the desert sands of North Africa
Canning carries the trauma of war and a fractured memory of a terrible event
while Michael resumes his womanising ways intent on concealing his own secret wound
“It’s a novel about healing and confronting the truth
about finding the courage to fight for our beliefs
even if it means leaving behind everything we know,” Mrs Davison said
The in-conversation event will dive into the themes of the book and the research and inspiration behind this story with an opportunity for the audience to ask their own questions
The UniSA Australian Human Powered Vehicle Super Series gets under way for 2025
This year the 2025 Adelaide University HPV Super Series launch will be held at the Railway Lands in Mount Gambier
The event will see the unveiling of the new Adelaide University branding
the race trophy and provide the opportunity for people to get up close and see these wonderful human powered machines
The Mount Gambier 8 Hour Pedal Prix is Round 1 of the UniSA Australian Human Powered Vehicle Super Series
the biggest human powered vehicle racing series in the world
Around 100 vehicles are expected to enter the 8 hour endurance event at Mount Gambier's McNamara Park
Teams of up to 12 riders will take to the track with the race getting underway at 9:00am to be received by the chequered flag at 5:00pm
Entry fee payable per vehicle into McNamara Park
City of Mount Gambier has resolved to enter into a multi-year partnership agreement with Fringe Berrin until 2027/2028
providing financial and in-kind support through the Grants and Sponsorship program
Council has partnered with Fringe Berrin since the annual event began in 2017
“Council recognises Fringe Berrin’s significant contribution to the local economy of about $1.5million per year and the strategic links to supporting creative and cultural activation across the city,” City of Mount Gambier General Manager People
“While the event won’t go ahead in its usual format this year
Council is supporting the Fringe Outreach program with $5,000 cash
and an additional $2,000 for a touring Fringe-related act via the quick response funding stream.”
Fringe Berrin submitted a three-year partnership proposal to Council in late 2024
budget and marketing plan which was discussed at a Council briefing session on 28 January 2025
Elected Members resolved to enter into a multi-year partnership agreement with Fringe Berrin to the value of:
“Fringe Berrin brings a unique blend of community benefits
creating a vibrant atmosphere and bringing excitement to the city through activation of public spaces and venues,” Mr White said
Fringe Berrin and Council are pleased to continue to partner to deliver the Fringe Mount Gambier festival
“We are delighted with the City of Mount Gambier's decision for a multi-year funding partnership to support the Fringe Mount Gambier festival,” Fringe Berrin Artistic Director Louise Adams said
it was great to have the opportunity to speak directly to Elected Members about the many different ways Fringe Mount Gambier brings value to our community
It is wonderful to see this value recognised and encouraged with a three-year funding commitment.”
“The cultivation of a vibrant and accessible arts festival takes hard work and support by many
and strong partnerships like the one between Fringe Berrin Inc and the City of Mount Gambier are integral.”
“The Fringe committee is thankful for the Council's ongoing support and we look forward to presenting the much-loved festival in 2026."
Council administration will meet with Fringe Berrin regularly to ensure all opportunities for the event are explored
with a report provided by the committee to Council by 31 December annually
Fantasy author Rose Harvey is set to discuss her novels at Mount Gambier Library on Wednesday 23 April at 7:00pm
Rose is known for writing young adult fantasy novels full of magic
with her passion continuing into adulthood and now a published author
Rose is an Adelaide-based high school teacher of English and French and can also be found on the amateur theatre stage
“This will be my first time in Mount Gambier and I'm really looking forward to the event and sharing my books and writing journey with new readers in regional SA,” Rose Harvey said
The Ice Flame trilogy consists of the books Heir to the Ice Flame
The trilogy follows Princess Nina Fiordlasher as she strives to reclaim her stolen throne in the magical realm of Scardia
and betrayal crafting a richly imagined world that delves into the challenges of destiny and the resilience required to overcome formidable adversities
Rose’s novel Heir to the Ice Flame won the 2024 International Firebird Award for fantasy
and second place in the magical realism category
It also received third place in the 2024 DBT Literary Awards for teen fantasy
which follows Laura Jeffires who was rescued from her burning home six years ago and taken to another world by two strangers
Her only hope of getting back home lies with the Order of Robins
a mysterious group who maintain balance and peace between worlds
City of Mount Gambier and District Council of Grant will submit a joint motion regarding regional air travel for consideration within the agenda for the Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly to be held in June 2025
The motion calls on the Federal Government to:
“This motion acknowledges the role of local government in operating airports across regional Australia as critical community infrastructure
It highlights the financial pressure to meet regulation
The motion also details the inequality in regional passenger fares
service frequency and reliability and the liveability implications for regional Australians,” District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston said
City and Grant councils worked together to draft the motion informed by the Federal Government’s Aviation White Paper: Towards 2050
the Australian Airports Association Taking Flight report
the Mount Gambier Regional Airport Master Plan 2025 – 2035
public advocacy statements provided by the Local Government Association South Australia and the City of Mount Gambier’s 2024 - 2028 Strategic Plan and Mount Gambier 2035 Community Vision
“Air connectivity in regional areas is so important
I am sure many people can attest that we are often subjected to comparatively high fares
difficult onward connections and service reliability challenges,” City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said
Findings from the Towards 2050 Aviation White Paper reported a collective view that regional aviation fails to serve the community’s needs
“We are calling for a national strategy that addresses these barriers and ensures affordable
reliable air access for all,” Mayor Boston said
Aviation services are vital to the visitor economy
connecting tourists to regional destinations that showcase Australia’s diverse landscapes and heritage
tourism potential and the visitor economy will be constrained
This motion aligns with our shared advocacy commitments to support the sustainability and ongoing improvement of air travel to and from our region
highlighting its direct contribution to liveability
our economy and our access to critical services," Mayor Martin said
“A proactive approach to federal funding and regulation will help future-proof regional aviation
City of Mount Gambier Media and Communications Coordinator Sharny McLean on 0413 798 327 or smclean@mountgambier.sa.gov.au
District Council of Grant Chief Executive Officer Darryl Whicker on 0448 557 091 or darryl.whicker@dcgrant.sa.gov.au
It looks like this was the result of either a mistyped address
Wood Work draws from the Riddoch’s own collection to highlight the rich tradition of working with wood as a medium
This exhibition showcases a variety of works that demonstrate the craftsmanship
labour and imagination that artists invest in shaping wood into art
presented by the South East Art Society takes inspiration from ‘Gus the Woodcutter,’ a beautifully carved figure by Gustav M
Christensen (1916–1997) that has become the society’s mascot
Artists have been invited to respond to the theme of wood—whether materially
or through tributes to the region’s deep connection to forestry
The exhibition will feature a diverse range of works in 2D
with winning entries in each category announced on opening night
banksia and blackwood that provide habitat to birdlife
to the massive pine plantations that form the back bone of our economy
artists respond with their own stories expressed through and about wood,” Ms Whatling said
Thousands of people braved the hot and windy conditions on Saturday to welcome in the festive season at the AAM Timber Mount Gambier Christmas Parade on Commercial Street
sporting groups and volunteers who brought Christmas spirit to the heart of the city
“It was amazing to see and feel the excitement and fun that this annual event brings each year
We appreciate the efforts of everyone involved to make it happen,” City of Mount Gambier Community Events Team Leader Xarnia Keding said
“The judging panel was impressed with the quality of the floats involved in the parade this year
The new entries and the annual favourites really do bring that magic,” parade judge Sandy O'Donnell said
Media contact: City of Mount Gambier Media and Communications Coordinator Sharny Mclean on 0413 798 327 smclean@mountgambier.sa.gov.au
The City of Mount Gambier 2024-2028 Strategic Plan was endorsed by Elected Members at this week’s Council meeting
priorities and values articulated in the Community Vision – Mount Gambier 2035
the plan will guide Council’s work to deliver on its vision and purpose throughout the next four years
Following the adoption of the draft plan at the October Council meeting
a community consultation process was undertaken between 16 October 2024 and 7 November 2024
concluding an extensive engagement program that commenced with the Mount Gambier 2035 initiative in November 2023
“The Mount Gambier 2035 project team sought feedback from the community about what we want our future to look like
we have worked hard to ensure the aspirations and values expressed are reflected in what Council is committing to achieve over the next four years,” Mayor Lynette Martin said
The 2024-2028 Strategic Plan identifies 21 strategic measures and indicators
along with six key strategic priorities including:
“This Strategic Plan charts a path to achieve our long-term goals
focusing on the environment and liveability
stimulating economic and business growth and building a vibrant community—all guided by responsible leadership and governance,” Mayor Martin said
“Each strategic priority outlines what success looks like
what the community can expect from Council over the next four years
the key projects we will undertake and the supporting strategies and plans that will guide us there."
The plan has been developed in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1999 and considers Council’s Long-Term Financial Plan to ensure there is capacity to deliver on the outcomes and objectives included
“Now that the plan is endorsed it will become the overarching strategic document that informs Council’s ongoing planning and reporting
in particular the development of our next Annual Business Plan and Budget,” CEO Sarah Philpott said
The plan outlines Council’s role in the various projects as a deliverer
we have considered our diverse and complex roles and the tools we can use to drive and influence change
The plan therefore reflects our commitment to working with others to shape the future of our city,” Ms Philpott said
“We will continue to build strong partnerships to advocate and leverage our relationships to seek co-investment
grants and contributions for the benefit of our community.”
Reporting against the Strategic Plan will be conducted annually and published within Council’s Annual Report
“This Strategic Plan is more than a roadmap; it is our commitment to Mount Gambier’s future
through bold decision-making and thoughtful choices that align with our community’s vision - ensuring our community is an integral part and ultimately enhancing the lives of all who call our city home,” Mayor Martin said
Round two of City of Mount Gambier’s Grants and Sponsorships program is now open for applications
The newly revised program includes consideration of all grants and sponsorship applications together
distributed in two funding rounds each year
Council’s Grants and Sponsorships program assists eligible groups and individuals with funds and in-kind support to host community events and projects
upgrade infrastructure or facilitate art projects in accordance with the Strategic Plan
The second funding round is open for applications and will be awarded in April 2025
Council’s Grants and Sponsorships program includes:
Funds provided to community organisations to support the delivery of community events
Funds provided to major/significant events to attract substantial economic benefit and visitation to the city
Funds provided to major/significant events held within the city to attract substantial economic benefit and visitation to Mount Gambier
Funds for large-scale signature events or programs that have the potential to be regionally
nationally or internationally significant which provide substantial visitation
profiling opportunities and economic impact for the city
Funds to support small funding programs which were previously open on an ongoing basis throughout the year as Council transitions to the new funding program
Funds for the use of nominated Council facilities to support local not-for-profit organisation to deliver activities that provide meaningful social impact and respond to community need
“We encourage community groups to make applications within these categories to support activities and events within Mount Gambier,” City of Mount Gambier Manager Economy
Strategy and Engagement Biddie Shearing said
The Mount Gambier &amp; District Pony Club is appreciative of the support received through the Grants and Sponsorship program
“The funds received have been used to help with the financial costs involved with organising a national level event in regional South Australia
Through this program we have also accessed tangible items like; power lead covers
seating and bunting,” Mount Gambier Horse Trials Director Jodi Widdison said
The Eruption Disc Golf event held in November 2024 was awarded a Major Events Grant to the value of $2,500 cash and $1,300 in-kind support
"Through the support of City of Mount Gambier's grant program the Eruption organising committee was able to direct grant funding towards local businesses on key elements such as toilet hire
councils in kind support providing safety infrastructure and spectator seating enabled Mount Gambier Disc Golf to facilitate a high standard event for those who participated," 2024 Eruption Tournament Director Michelle Schulz said
“An assessment panel comprised of two elected members and Council staff will review applications against predetermined criteria and make a recommendation to Council to provide final approval,” Ms Shearing said
Please return the completed form and associated attachments via email to city@mountgambier.sa.gov.au or contact (08) 8721 2555
Recommendations will be discussed at the April 2025 Council meeting
Applicants will then be notified of the outcome of their submission
The Mount Gambier community has generously donated more than $30,000 to the 2024 Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal
City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the community's support during difficult economic times
"I am deeply thankful for the contributions made to the 2024 appeal
My sincere thanks goes to every individual
and business who chose to make a donation to bring the total raised to $31,277.45," Mayor Martin said
it was inspiring to see that our wonderful
supportive and caring community continued to think about others and what they may need to enjoy the festive season.”
The funds raised through the appeal are distributed to local support agencies
and presents as part of the Christmas Cheer program
“The agencies tell me that need within the community was greater than ever this year and gratefully received
I would like to acknowledge the incredible efforts of our local support agencies
who work tirelessly to distribute the food hampers
and gifts on behalf of the Christmas Cheer program," Mayor Martin added
“We added an interactive way for the community to track the fundraiser’s progress in 2024
Each $5,000 milestone unlocked a magical window display lit with Christmas lights in the windows of the Old Town Hall building,” City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin said
The Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is open all year round
Donations can be made through the following channels:
The Riddoch Arts &amp; Cultural Centre invites locals to step into The Green Room
a new interactive creative space inspired by the current exhibition
While the exhibition showcases iconic posters from the National Gallery of Australia’s collection featuring concerts from the 1960s to the 1980s
The Green Room shines a spotlight on Mount Gambier’s contemporary music culture
immersive experience designed for all ages and featuring a collection of music posters from local bands Riddoch Customer Service and Event Support Officer Kyra Sykes says the space is a celebration of music
“We are excited to bring The Green Room to life at the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre
creating a space where visitors of all ages can delve deeper into the exhibition content through interactive activities,” Riddoch Customer Service and Event Support Officer Kyra Sykes said
“It is important for us to collaborate with local visual and musical artists as a way to further connect with our community and celebrate their talents.”
“Compiling the display of local band posters has been a real highlight of the process,” Kyra said
The Green Room will offer a variety of interactive activities including:
The Green Room will be launched on Saturday 14 December 2024 and will be available to visit until Sunday 23 February 2025 between 10:00am and 5:00pm on weekdays and 10:00am to 2:00pm on weekends and most public holidays
A live event will be held on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 December 2024 where acclaimed Mount Gambier artist Anthony Hamilton will bring The Green Room to life with live mural painting
“Attendees will witness the creative process in real-time as Anthony transforms the space into a dynamic work of art.”
or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to explore local culture
The Green Room offers something for everyone so don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the past
and future of music and art in Mount Gambier,” Kyra said
scheduled for 23rd and 24th November offers residents the opportunity to dispose of a selection of items for free
promoting proper waste management and environmental stewardship
OneFortyOne Environmental Manager Belinda Williamson said illegal dumping has been a persistent problem in the forests around Mount Gambier
leading to environmental and safety hazards
“The Spring Clean Weekend is a trial initiative designed to address this issue by providing a convenient and cost-free way for residents to dispose of their rubbish,” Belinda said
“We’re encouraging people to bring their unwanted items from the sponsored list to the Council Waste Transfer Station
City Of Mount Gambier Environment Officer Aaron Izzard said the Transfer Station will be open to take other items that are usually free to dump including tv’s
“Anything in good and usable condition can also be dropped off to be donated to the ReUse market,” Aaron said
Belinda emphasised the importance of community involvement in this initiative
“While we recognize that this may not immediately solve the problem
Staff will be on hand to assist with sorting and provide information on proper disposal practices
Please note sponsorship of disposed items is for residents only
The Waste Transfer Station on Eucalypt Drive will be open for the Spring Clean Weekend on Saturday 23rd November and Sunday 24th November from 2 – 5pm each day
Please ensure you safely and securely transport any items to drop off
Throughout the 2024/2025 Christmas and New Year period
Council's hours of operation and services are as follows:
There will be no bin collection on Wednesday 25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)
Bins will be collected on Thursday 26 December 2024 instead
Please ensure bins are out by 6:00am on the day of collection
All other bin collection days remain unchanged
The Council office at the Civic Centre will be closed from 12:00pm on Tuesday 24 December 2024 to Wednesday 1 January 2025 inclusive
The after-hours call centre will be available to assist during the above-mentioned closure
or visit Council's website www.mountgambier.sa.gov.au
The Riddoch will be closed from 12:00pm on Tuesday 24 December 2024 and on Wednesday 25 December 2024
Open all other weekdays from 10:00am to 5:00pm and weekends and public holidays from 10:00am to 2:00pm
The Visitor Centre will be closed on Wednesday 25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)
Open all other weekdays from 9:00am to 5:00pm and weekends and public holidays from 10:00am to 4:00pm
The Waste Transfer Station will be closed from Wednesday 25 to Saturday 28 December 2024 (inclusive) and Wednesday 1 January 2025
Open all other weekdays from 7:30am to 12:00pm and weekends from 2:00pm to 5:00pm
The Carinya office will be closed from 12:00pm on Tuesday 24 December 2024 to Sunday 29 December 2024 (inclusive) and Wednesday 1 January 2025
The Welcome Centre will be closed Wednesday 25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)
From 26 December 2024 to 5 January 2025 the centre will open daily from 10:00am to 3:00pm
Visitor servicing at Umpherston/Balumbul will be closed Wednesday 25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)
Open all other days from 10:00am to 3:00pm
Wishing you a safe and happy Christmas from all the team at Council
inspired by paleontological discoveries in the sinkholes and caves of the Limestone Coast region will be brought to life as the Mount Gambier Beacon Art Project
after it was endorsed as the successful EOI application at the October Council meeting
Artists Mitch Walker and Tom Proctor of Huna Studio in Melbourne came up with the idea for the unique creature after a conversation about the history of the local landscape
“I was at a family wedding and I was speaking with my aunty Jo who is a paleontologist
and she told me she had been in Mount Gambier and started showing me all these incredible photos of her cave diving and all the things that she found
She showed me photos of all these creatures and ancient megafauna,” Tom said
“One of them was this thing called a Palorchestes Panei which is a sort of marsupial ant eater
So that was a seed for the idea right there.”
The designers sought to create a piece of art that was representative of many kinds of ancient marsupials found in the region
“Mount Gambier is an interesting and unique place
This design is a symbol of lost and ancient creatures
but an imaginary figure that has emerged from the earth and embarked upon a journey across the landscape
Encouraging viewers to question its origin and embark upon their own journey of discovery,” Mitch said
The artists hope the mythical creature will spark a sense of curiosity in people who view it
“One of the things that I find really interesting about this piece is the stark contrast of it being this really bright
alien object and we're hoping it stops you in your tracks when you see it,” Tom said
The artists anticipate that initial interest in the larger-than-life artwork will lead to curiosity about its origins and ignite a desire for further discovery
“We think of it as being friendly and we hope that kids will give it a hug
You want people to lean in and then that will open the door to them wanting to learn more about where it came from and why it was created,” Mitch said
“We hope it puts a smile on someone's face and brings a little bit of joy
It doesn't have to be a super abstract complicated idea
it can just be something as simple as that,” Tom said
An assessment panel comprised of four representatives from the City of Mount Gambier
including Councillors Max Bruins and Frank Morello
Team Leader Exhibitions and Collections Chris Clements along with Art Gallery of South Australia’s Erin Davidson evaluated 22 Expressions of Interest in May for the Mount Gambier Beacon Art Project based on a detailed selection criteria
“The fact is cities gain value through public art – cultural value
Public art adds meaning to a city and provides uniqueness to communities,” Cr Max Bruins said
“A vibrant arts and cultural scene is part of the fabric that makes up a robust and well-rounded community and part of the rationale behind allocating funds to a beacon art project is to proudly announce that we want to be such a community with a vibrant arts and cultural scene.”
and we know it will almost certainly be controversial however it will also capture imaginations and spark conversations – like so many other significant public art projects it is divisive and has the potential to be both celebrated and criticised.”
Mayor Lynette Martin acknowledged that the project had sparked controversial debate within the community
“I admit that when I was first presented with this project
I began thinking about it a bit differently and how it connected with our geological and zoological history,” Mayor Martin said
“I hear criticism that Council could find projects more worthy of this money
I want to assure the community that we are committed to focusing on all the other important issues that have been raised
We are using funding that has been quarantined over several budgets for the purpose of this project
with a shortfall of about $20,000 covered by our existing art budget.”
Expressions of interest for the Beacon Art Project were received from around Australia and Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre Director Ashleigh Whatling said the assessment panel were impressed with the high quality of the applicants’ proposals
“The Beacon Art Project seeks to capture the unique combination of landscape
people and history that forms Mount Gambier’s identity and resonates with the local community and visitors to the city,” Ms Whatling said
Huna Studio was shortlisted for the project due to demonstrated engagement with the history of the region
combined with the original concept and proven experience working in public architecture
“Bold public art has the proven power to transform and elevate the natural and built environment and connect communities to place
Huna Studio’s proposal speaks directly to the geological and natural history of the Limestone Coast region.”
The project budget of $137,450 provides investment in the city’s cultural vibrancy
aligned with the Community Vision for Mount Gambier 2035 and the Mount Gambier Public Arts Strategy
Council considered installing the megafauna sculpture in the vicinity of the Old Town Hall
given the historical significance of the building façade
resolved to explore other locations for the artwork
to be further explored at the November Council meeting
The project has an expected lifespan of approximately 20 years with minimal ongoing maintenance costs
fabrication will now take place in the coming months with the artwork due to be installed by June 2025
Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia visited Mount Gambier for a whirlwind tour of the city on Saturday 21 September 2024
During the visit Her Excellency visited Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre
spoke to stall holders at the Mount Gambier Farmers Market at the Cave Garden/Thugi
visited the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre and attended an informal lunch at City Hall with a small group of community members
She then visited Ryder-Cheshire Mount Gambier before the last stop of the day at The Kids Shed
The Governor-General enjoyed spending time in Mount Gambier learning about the region
meeting residents and getting a taste of the local community
"One of the vital parts of my role is to share the stories of the best of Australia
It was a privilege to spend time in Mount Gambier
experiencing innovation and excellence in community development
cultural leadership and exceptional volunteering and care
I look forward to sharing widely the experience of my visit
generosity and hospitality," the Governor-General said
City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin OAM was honoured to welcome and escort Her Excellency who is the 28th Governor General of Australia and the second female to hold the position
“The Governor-General’s visit centred on care
being the chosen themes for her tenure in the role and the locals who met her were delighted by her strong interest in community activities and her personable nature and we thank Her Excellency for taking the time to visit us here in Mount Gambier,” Mayor Martin said
The State Government has today released new artist impressions of the <a href="https://pir.sa.gov.au/primary_industry/forestry/forestry_centre_of_excellence">Forestry Centre of Excellence</a> (FCoE) being built in Mount Gambier and officially launched today
providing a unique opportunity to create an education
The design for the facility is due to be finalised in November 2024 with building construction due to commence in April 2025 and an expected completion in January 2026
Vital research underway in temporary facilities was showcased at a special launch on site today and includes projects on:
Professor Jeff Morrell has been appointed as the Forestry Centre of Excellence&rsquo;s inaugural director due to commence in mid-January 2025
he was Director for the Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life based at the University of the Sunshine Coast.The FCoE links to the forest industry and its key attribute of collaboration
connection and partnerships through its research
has been reflected in the new FCoE brand of interlocking abstract trees also unveiled today
SA Premier Peter Malinauskas described the Green Triangle plantation forest region as &ldquo;one of the powerhouses of the Australian forest industry&rdquo;
&ldquo;The South Australian portion of the region contributes more than $860 million to the state&rsquo;s gross product annually &ndash; making it one of our most productive primary industry sectors,&rdquo; Premier Malinauskas said
&ldquo;We are delivering on our election commitment to establish a world-leading Forestry Centre of Excellence to strengthen this already thriving industry.&rdquo;
<a href="http://people.unisa.edu.au/John.Hill">UniSA Chancellor John Hill</a>
said the University was honoured to host the new Forestry Centre of Excellence
which has evolved from Forest Research Mount Gambier
established in 2018 by the State and Federal Government
&ldquo;The model of recruiting UniSA researchers into the forestry industry has resulted in a more efficient
establishing standards for best practice,&rdquo; Chancellor Hill said
we are proud to continue this partnership and help advance research and development projects to ensure the industry&rsquo;s economic prosperity committing more than $6 million towards the Centre&rsquo;s operations and building along with significant in-kind support.&rdquo;
For further information on the Forestry Centre of Excellence visit: <a href="https://pir.sa.gov.au/primary_industry/forestry/forestry_centre_of_excellence">Forestry Centre of Excellence - PIRSA</a>
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Media contact: Candy Gibson M: +61 434 605 142 E: <a href="mailto:candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au">candy.gibson@unisa.edu.au</a>
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Keep an eye out for the convoy from Penola to Mount Gambier this Saturday Morning
The convoy commences from Penola to Mount Gambier departing Penola showgrounds at 8:30am which arrives at Mount Gambier approximately 9:30am
 Prime Movers will be parked up on display at the showgrounds
 On offer is interactive forestry displays
children's activities such as Whacky Mack Magician
 Funds raised are donated back to our wonderful community assisting those families in need especially towards Christmas
The AAM Timber Mount Gambier Christmas Parade celebrates the beginning of the festive season down Commercial Street on Saturday 16 November 2024 at 11:00am
The much-loved annual parade celebrates its 65th year in 2024
“We are excited to have 51 entries taking part in the parade this year
with a new float joining the return of the crowd favourites,” City of Mount Gambier Community Events Team Leader Xarnia Keding said
“Our hard-working parade shed volunteers have been refurbishing the old pirate ship float and it has now been transformed into Noah’s Ark
Glenburnie Primary School students will proudly sit on the boat and walk alongside this float in the parade.”
The parade begins from Crouch Street North
travelling west on Commercial Street to Vansittart Park
Children and families will line the street to watch the floats go by
waiting in anticipation for the jolly man himself – Santa
Blue Lake Highland Pipe Band and the Hamilton and District Pipe Band will participate in the parade
the Lions Club Blue Lake Brass Band Festival
street march and massed march traditionally run alongside the parade will not go ahead this year
“Allen Woodham has recently resigned from the Brass Band Festival
He delivered a fantastic event of national importance which brought brass bands from all over the state and interstate together to compete in Mount Gambier
It was run through the Lions Club of Mount Gambier and they decided not to go ahead with the event this year
it has been difficult to attract as many brass bands from afar to come to our city to march and play in the Christmas Parade,” Mrs Keding said
With thousands of people expected to converge on the heart of the city for the event
attendees are reminded to stay behind the blue safety line at all times during the parade
“It is really important that people who are planning to attend the parade remain behind the blue painted line on both sides of Commercial Street from Crouch Street to Wehl Street for the duration of the parade.”
Father Christmas will attend the Rotary Club of Mount Gambier West’s Party in the Park event at the Cave Gardens/Thugi with live performances
The Jingle and Mingle Street Celebration will also feature family fun for all ages on Commercial Street between 12:00pm and 4:00pm
delivered by the Mount Gambier Chamber of Commerce
The following roads will temporarily be closed to traffic on Saturday 16 November 2023 to ensure the safe operation of the 2024 Mount Gambier Christmas Parade:
Parking vehicles on these streets is prohibited during the road closures
Swimmers from around South Australia and interstate will be competing in a variety of Swimming races
4-day competition meet at Wulanda Recreation &amp; Convention Centre
City of Mount Gambier is calling on passionate young people aged 15 to 25 to join the Youth Activation Group (YAG)
a volunteer group dedicated to planning events
organising activities and advocating for youth issues within the local community
the group aims to make Mount Gambier a vibrant and welcoming place for young people to live
a young person looking to make a real difference in our community
and a passion for advocating for youth issues
Joining YAG is a fantastic opportunity for young people to contribute to their community
and make lasting connections,” Mount Gambier Library Team Leader Children’s and Youth Services Erin Jones said
Specialised leadership training for the YAG will be conducted this year to support new and existing members in developing a vision for the future
“This is an important opportunity to shape what the YAG will look like going forward and what sort of activities the group will focus on
The future is in your hands and it is time to think strategically,” Mrs Jones said
the group utilises a dedicated youth room within Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre where they have recently explored and implemented ideas to activate the purpose-built space
Reflecting on her time participating in the Youth Activation Group
current YAG member Jannika says it is worthwhile joining
saddle bronc and barrel racing along with food trucks
live band 'The Go-Set will entertain the crowd
Love you Long Frie -fries and burgers and Pizza
Gates open at 4:00pm Action starts at 6:00pm
For more information email: info@mtgrodeo.com.au
City of Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin encourages the community to support those in need with a donation to the 2024 Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal
demand for assistance is expected to be greater than ever before throughout the Christmas period
The appeal supports the Christmas Cheer program administered by local agencies Uniting Care
and The Salvation Army to provide food hampers
many people are facing increasing financial hardship
I am very conscious that not everyone will be in a position to support the appeal
a donation of $50.00 will provide a food hamper for an individual whereas $100.00 will provide a food hamper for a family and allows a parent to present gifts to their children on Christmas morning,” Mayor Lynette Martin said
and 816 families to enjoy a brighter Christmas
“I expect there will be an increase in the number of families and individuals who require assistance this year
with many new faces who may not have sought help previously.”
“Donations to the appeal will make a real difference to help the less fortunate
Even small acts of kindness can have a big impact."
“We plan to light up windows of the Old Town Hall as we reach milestone donations
to showcase the generosity of the community,” the Mayor said
The Mount Gambier Men’s Shed has created 130 toys to be distributed as part of the appeal this year
“We've been doing this since 2016 and it’s become a significant part of the appeal
while George and Gary handle most of the painting," Mount Gambier’s Mens Shed toy manager Peter Heness said
Mayor Martin is appreciative of the Men’s Shed for their ongoing commitment and contribution to the appeal
Donations to the appeal can also be made through the following channels:
“If you are planning on being at the Mount Gambier Christmas Parade on Saturday 16 November 2024
please consider bringing some coins to toss into the buckets to donate to the appeal,” Mayor Martin said