Tumby Bay District Council Podcast

Tumby Bay Council
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All the events and news in Tumby Bay District.

  1. FEB 16

    Summer Highlights, Australia Day, and Community Updates

    Join us for the latest edition of the Tumby Bay District Council Podcast, where we bring you all the news and happenings from around the region! In this episode, the Mayor and CEO recap the successful wrap-up of summer activities—despite a quieter start to January, Vacswim brought families to our beautiful beaches, even if brief shark sightings at Port Neill moved lessons onto dry land! We also hear exciting highlights from the Australia Day celebrations, where two locals became Australian citizens, community champions received Citizen of the Year awards, and everyone enjoyed a hearty breakfast hosted by the Lions Club.   Volunteer spirit is alive and well thanks to events like “Under the Pines” in Port Neill, which coincided with Tunarama in Port Lincoln, boosting visitor numbers across the whole district. Looking ahead, Council is discussing funding and policy support with state and federal representatives—vital for infrastructure, housing, mobile coverage, shark warning systems, and road and weather upgrades. These efforts come alongside Council staff changes, with farewells to longtime team members and a warm welcome to Rebecca, our new Community Partnerships Officer.   Here are some quick updates on Council projects: Hall Asbestos Removal (Tumby Bay Soldiers Memorial Hall): Work finished on January 16, 2025, focusing on old window putty. Window replacements are planned for 2026. Rabbit Control Program at Lipson Cove: Free-feeding (plain oats) runs February 16–27, 2026, followed by 1080 baiting from February 28 to March 8, during which the campground will be closed. Future boxthorn control and re-vegetation with Tumby Bay Area School students is scheduled for winter 2026. Road Resealing: Trezise, Excel, Wibberley, Selwyn, Ibrox, and Nicol Court—plus parking areas on Bratten Road—are due for resealing in February or March 2026. Keep an eye out for traffic management. Scholarships: The Tumby Bay District Scholarship Program grants up to $5,000 for local students or mature learners. Applications open February 1, 2026, closing February 28. Free Boat Ramp Use: Enjoy fee-free use of Port Neill and Tumby Bay ramps until November 30, 2026, thanks to the State Government’s Algal Bloom Summer Plan.   Don’t miss the Lions Skin Cancer Screening Unit visiting the Travellers Rest on Tumby Terrace on February 14–15, 2026. These free checks are a vital service from the Lions Medical Research Foundation, and you can book from February 2 by calling 0486 319 843. We also revisit the Tumby Bay Interchurch Council’s successful community event, where around 400 attendees enjoyed food stalls, school performances, and a lively show by special guest Tim Raymond, raising funds for FOOD BANK.   In other community news, the Tumby Bay RSL will reopen their kitchen on February 6, offering Friday night meals, and will hold committee and general meetings on February 17 (starting at 6pm and 7pm, respectively). Council’s January 20 meeting covered updates on jetty works and endorsed the 2026–2030 Disability Access and Inclusion Plan, with full details at tumbybay.sa.gov.au. Remember, Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30pm—stay tuned for more updates, and thanks for listening to the Tumby Bay District Council Podcast!

    8 min

  2. FEB 11

    Community Updates: New Bus, Australia Day Awards, and More

    In this episode of the Tumby Bay District Council Podcast, we bring you the latest news and events shaping our vibrant community.   Mayor Geoff Churchett proudly unveils the newly decorated Community Bus, featuring artwork by local school students and equipped with convenient wheelchair access at the rear. The mayor also reflects on the festive Ungarra Primary School end-of-year Christmas concert, commends Channel 7’s Ron Kandelaars for highlighting Port Neill’s response to the Algal Bloom, and congratulates the recipients of this year’s Australia Day awards. Be sure to head to the Tumby Bay foreshore lawns on January 26 for the official presentations and a Lions Club breakfast.   CEO Darren Keenan welcomes 2026 and previews an exciting year ahead, with State and Local Government elections and numerous Council projects on the horizon. He introduces the new Community Partnerships Officer, Rebecca Nowikow, who will be spearheading long-term community initiatives. Local residents are also encouraged to attend Council meetings to follow and participate in the decision-making process.   Practical updates include free use of Council-owned boat ramps at Tumby Bay and Port Neill until November, thanks to State Government Algal Bloom funding. Annual permit holders may be eligible for a partial refund. Meanwhile, SA Water’s rebate program continues to support water conservation efforts, and the ChemClear initiative offers a responsible way for farmers to dispose of agricultural chemicals.   If you're passionate about local heritage, the National Trust’s regional museum welcomes volunteers to help preserve Tumby Bay’s rich history. And in the spirit of supporting future generations, the Tumby Bay Kindergarten is now registered with the National Growers Register, making it easier to donate and invest in early childhood education.   Stay engaged, get behind upcoming events, and travel safely around the district. Tune in to our latest episode for a deep dive into these updates, as we celebrate the people and progress that make the Tumby Bay District such a wonderful place to call home.

    5 min

  3. 12/15/2025

    Tumby Bay District Council Podcast: Coastal Upgrades, Community Highlights, and Holiday Events

    Tumby Bay District Council Podcast: News and EventsIn this episode, Mayor Churchett highlights his recent involvement in the Jetties Summit and the SA Coastal Councils Alliance Forum, emphasizing strong collaboration among coastal councils to maintain and enhance jetties. A significant outcome is the creation of an LGA Working Party, with the Mayor volunteering as a representative. He also shares insights from visiting coastal sites, noting that rural areas like Tumby Bay often need tailored solutions to address coastal erosion. To cap off these developments, the Mayor officially unveiled the new Community Bus, featuring artwork by local students that has been drawing praise across the district.   Council updates include free boat launching at the Port Neill and Tumby Bay ramps from December 2025 to November 2026, a measure made possible through the State Government’s Algal Bloom Summer Plan. Council is also partnering on the Eyre Peninsula Destination Management Plan to boost regional tourism and is progressing with the Tumby Bay Sports and Recreation Master Plan, aiming to outline funding and club participation early next year. In addition, efforts are underway to introduce improved childcare options by identifying potential providers and suitable locations for new services.   Environmental preservation remains front and center at Lipson Cove, where Council and the Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board continue to make site improvements, restore native vegetation, and manage visitor access. Two big community events are on the horizon: the Tumby Bay Christmas Pageant on December 19 and “Under the Pines” in Port Neill on January 10—both promising family-friendly fun for locals and visitors alike. Council is also preparing to announce a new Community Partnerships Officer role, dedicated to supporting local initiatives and activities.   Looking ahead, Council has released a draft Disability Access and Inclusion Plan for 2026–2030, inviting community feedback before December 19, 2025. Boat ramps in Port Neill and Tumby Bay will be free to use from December 1, 2025, to November 30, 2026, and existing permit holders can request refunds. On the community front, the Zonta Club of Lower Eyre recently hosted a Women’s Wellness and Wellbeing Expo in Cummins, putting the spotlight on endometriosis awareness and featuring engaging sessions like chair yoga and a fashion show. Meanwhile, the Tumby Bay Hospital & Uringa Auxiliary is upgrading its patient bathroom facilities, supported by generous donations from local families.   Don’t miss more district updates on 5CC Radio’s “Good Morning EP” segment, airing the second Friday of each month at 7:15 a.m. Finally, the Tumby Bay Kindergarten’s new registration with the National Growers Register makes it easier than ever for the community to lend support. Thank you for tuning in, and remember that your ideas and involvement are essential to keeping Tumby Bay District inclusive, vibrant, and future-focused.

    7 min

  4. 11/12/2025

    Tumby Bay District Council Podcast: Community Updates and Celebrations

    Join us for this month’s Tumby Bay District Council Podcast, where we delve into the latest news and events shaping our community. Hear how the Mayor celebrated the Port Neill War Memorial Hall’s 100-year milestone, learn about key meetings with the Eyre Peninsula Regional Development Australia group, and find out why the Royal Flying Doctor Service praised the Tumby Bay Airstrip. We also share exciting updates on Council’s upgraded enterprise system, positive feedback on the proposed seawall—brought to life through 3D modeling—and highlights from community events like the Yallunda Flat Show and Lipson Car Boot Sale.   Continuing the spirit of community progress, we discuss the retiring Community Bus (set for April 2024) and the forthcoming new vehicle in November 2025, which will sport a vibrant “Driving Our Story” Youth Art Project along its exterior. At Lipson Cove, the ‘Restoring Coastal Harmony’ initiative is tackling pests and supporting revegetation, with Council teaming up with local students for hands-on planting. As the warmer months approach, additional bins and pickups will help manage summer crowds, and we remind residents to avoid using public bins for household waste—call 8688 2101 if you notice any overflowing bins.   With the Fire Danger Season beginning on 15 November 2025, tune in for advice from Council’s Fire Prevention Officer on preparing and maintaining properties to remain compliant. We also explore the draft water allocation plan for Eyre Peninsula’s groundwater resources, where feedback is open until 16 December 2025—visit www.yoursay.sa.gov.au/ep-water-allocation-plan-draft-2026 for more information.   Finally, don’t miss updates from the Tumby Bay Progress Association—particularly on new volunteering initiatives, tourism boosts, and a heartfelt tribute to long-serving member John James—as well as the Tumby Bay Croquet Club’s latest news on tournaments, come-and-try sessions, and plans for next year’s centenary celebration. It’s all happening in Tumby Bay, and this podcast keeps you connected to our thriving district. Join us as we celebrate accomplishments, prepare for challenges, and look forward to the future together.

    7 min

  5. 10/14/2025

    Tumby Bay District Council Podcast: Community News, Projects, and Celebrations

    Join us for the latest Tumby Bay District Council Podcast, where we delve into all the current news, events, and updates shaping our wonderful community!   In this episode, we begin with Councillor Ross Hudson’s recent resignation and the swearing-in of Robert Randall as his replacement. The Mayor also shares insights from his attendance at the Senate Inquiry into the Algal Bloom, reassuring that locally caught fish is safe if it’s lively upon catch. We wrap up this section by congratulating our local sporting teams on their Grand Final victories.   From the CEO’s desk, learn about ongoing discussions aimed at securing new childcare options in Tumby Bay. Meanwhile, community groups are encouraged to collect any old records stored with Council. A newly adopted Volunteer Management Policy will soon launch pilot projects, emphasizing the vital role volunteers play in the district.   We also highlight Small Business Week events, including a hands-on smartphone photography workshop with Steve Davis, designed to help local enterprises enhance their online presence. On the operational front, the transition to a new enterprise software system promises greater efficiency for Council activities.   Moving on to larger projects, the Foreshore Alignment Project is in a new round of community engagement, focusing on the placement of the rock revetment wall, improved beach access, and the prospects for new pathways and green spaces. Council has also opened applications for a new Community Partnerships Officer position, aimed at promoting collaboration and empowerment.   We recap a spirited “Shark Tank” event at Tumby Bay Area School, highlighting students’ innovative business pitches. Congratulations go to trainee Breanna Anesbury, who completed her Certificate III in Business while finishing Year 12. Council’s quarterly meetings continue this year and into next, with sessions scheduled on December 10, March 11, and June 10.   In our ongoing Coastal Protection Alignment Study and Detailed Design process, Stage 2 has seen enthusiastic community participation. Anyone who missed the recent drop-in sessions can still complete the online survey. We remind business owners to take advantage of up to three free mentoring sessions through the Small Business Fundamentals Program; more details can be found on the RDAEP website.   Local churches welcome everyone to join their services. On October 14, the Zonta Club of Lower Eyre hosts a Women’s Wellness and Wellbeing Day in Cummins, featuring a variety of health-focused topics plus complimentary morning tea and lunch. The Hospital Auxiliary celebrates the near completion of the Tumby Bay Hospital bathroom upgrade, while the RSL shares meeting dates and news of its new generator, successfully tested during a recent power interruption.   We invite you to share your stories and photos with Council at dctumby@tumbybay.sa.gov.au. Submissions are due by the second Thursday of each month for inclusion in the following month’s edition. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase proud sporting moments or favorite snaps—don’t hesitate to send them in!   In our special commendation, we recognize Lieutenant Colonel Olive Ada Kestel, whose distinguished nursing career included World War Two service in the Middle East and New Guinea. Her portr

    6 min

  6. 09/03/2025

    Celebrations, Council Updates, and Community Highlights

    Welcome to the Tumby Bay District Council Podcast – your monthly roundup of the latest news, events, and community highlights from across our picturesque region. In this episode, we celebrate Yvonne Turner’s 100th birthday, send best wishes from Council, and discuss hopes for those finishing winter rains to give local farmers a boost. You’ll also hear about the minor algal bloom impacts we’re monitoring, the Tumby Bay Jetty discussions with the State Government, and the exciting arrival of a new community bus. Plus, aspiring artists are invited to submit designs around the theme “Our District Our Story.”   Join us in welcoming Robert Randall, filling the vacancy left by Cr W. Ross Hudson’s resignation, and learn about the new Volunteer Management Policy aimed at empowering our valued volunteers. We’ll update you on Council’s selected alignment #2 for a coastal rock revetment wall, the latest rates notices for 2025-2026 (including email billing options), and the push to clear archived community records before the October 31, 2025 deadline. We also highlight how you can share your feedback on the Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board’s new five-year plan, and invite you to attend the Healthy Country Conference in October.   With bushfire season around the corner, we talk about maintaining a defendable space and keeping your Bushfire Survival Plan updated during November to April. Local events include a Hooded Plover Conservation Workshop on September 16 in Tumby Bay or September 18 in Elliston, a free Women’s Wellbeing and Wellness Expo on Tuesday, October 14, in Cummins Community Hall, and a Women’s Breakfast on Saturday, August 30, at the Tumby Bay Uniting Church Hall. Small business owners won’t want to miss the “Smartphone Photography and Video” workshop on September 24, from 5:30 to 7:30, as part of Small Business Week.   We also shine the spotlight on community spirit. Hear about the Bikes by the Bay group’s 100 km ride through Clare’s Riesling and Rattler trails, the Tumby Bay Hospital and Uringa Auxiliary’s latest renovations, and free book deliveries from the School-Community Library for those who can’t visit in person. Don’t miss the Port Neill War Memorial Hall’s 100th anniversary celebration on October 5, or author Katherine Jane’s visit to the School-Community Library on September 11 to discuss her novel “Sally.” As always, drop by our library for new reads or visit our website or call 8688 2101 for more details. Tune in now and stay connected with everything happening in the Tumby Bay District!

    11 min

  7. 08/06/2025

    Tumby Bay District Council Podcast: Jetties, Volunteers, and Community Highlights

    Tumby Bay District Council Podcast – News & Events Welcome to the Tumby Bay District Council Podcast, where we bring you the latest news and events from around the district. In this edition, we cover a wide range of local updates, from Council discussions on vital infrastructure to exciting new programs for youth, community health reminders, and much more.   First, hear from our Mayor and CEO, who share promising updates on Tumby Bay’s and Port Neill’s jetties, with ongoing talks involving the Department of Infrastructure and Transport. While formal decisions are still pending, the discussions so far have been encouraging. The continued algal bloom along the coastline remains a concern, so do report any dead fish to Fisheries and through the iNaturalist app. The Mayor also extends a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who participated in the winter solstice swim, and to the Lions Club for their post-swim breakfast. From the CEO, we learn that recent rain has helped farmers but also delayed road grading—please be patient and avoid using heavy machinery on soggy roads.   Residents are invited to offer feedback on the new Volunteer Management Policy, designed to better support community groups. Meanwhile, work continues on foreshore erosion strategies across Tumby Bay and Port Neill, and dog owners are reminded to pick up after their pets, with suggestions for improved bag-dispenser locations welcomed. There are also updates on the “Driving Our Story” youth arts project for the community bus, progress on the Port Neill boat ramp, and near-complete painting at the Soldiers Memorial Hall. Rate notices will be issued soon, and the Council values your input on these important local projects.   In community news, remember to reach out to Council before undertaking works on Council land—this includes anything from tree removals to driveway installations—so approvals can be handled smoothly. Don’t forget that dog and cat registrations must be renewed by 31 August and all pets need to be desexed and microchipped unless an exemption applies. Manage your registrations and transfers at dogsandcatsonline.com.au. Young artists aged 8 to 17 are encouraged to enter the “Driving Our Story” contest for a chance to have their artwork featured on our Community Bus (entries close 25 August 2025).   If you have empty chemical drums, book a DrumMuster drop-off—just triple-rinse, remove lids, and ensure the drums are fully dried. In local fitness updates, Combat 4 Life now offers 45-minute Express Classes, with a free trial plus sauna or massage for new members in August. Don’t miss the Women’s Wellness and Wellbeing Expo on 14 October at Cummins Community Hall, where Amber Bryant will be the keynote speaker. Meals on Wheels Tumby Bay also needs volunteers—contact Jan Powell to make a difference.   A recent highlight was the Kick Off Ya Boots event on 5 July, drawing more than 170 attendees. The filmed Loxton amateur theatre performance delivered laughter and heartfelt moments, especially for those in our farming community. Local volunteers and organizations, including Little Town Productions, ifarmwell.com.au, the SA Drought Hub, and various regional groups contributed to the show’s success. In health sector news, the Hospital Auxiliary’s project for new beds received an anonymous $10,000 boost, completing the purchase of 12 beds for local healthcare facilities. Ongoing renovations to the hospital’s bathrooms and nurse’s quarters continue, while the RSL has announced important upcoming meetings. They also invite you to submit photographs of local servicemen for their Portraits Memorial.   Finally, this episode also delves into local his

    10 min

  8. 07/03/2025

    Coastal Projects, Community Events, and Creative Fun

    Welcome to the Tumby Bay District Council Podcast—your go-to source for news and events from across the region! Join us as we discuss everything from Council updates and project announcements to community engagement sessions, local celebrations, and more. Whether it’s preserving our iconic jetties, advocating for local priorities at national conferences, or exploring innovative foreshore management schemes, we’ll keep you in the loop on all the latest developments.   In recent episodes, we’ve shone a spotlight on our “Restoring Coastal Harmony” project at Lipson Cove, made possible by more than $15,000 in grant funding. This exciting initiative tackles pest control, reintroduces native seedlings, and ensures educational opportunities for local schools. We also highlight enhancements to Soldiers Memorial Hall, dredging at the Tumby Bay Marina and Port Neill Boat Ramp, and upcoming chances for children to share their creative flair by designing artwork for a new community bus.   Looking ahead, we offer insights into a proposed realignment of the township’s foreshore seawall—complete with informative posters and surveys open to public feedback. Alongside vital visits by Services Australia’s mobile service centre, we cover an array of community activities: mobility challenges, screening events, the Little Bang Discovery Club, book clubs, Twilight Markets, and more. Plus, you’ll hear inspiring stories like Valmai Webb’s “Mystery Trip” tour and tips for fire safety at home.   From birdhouse building and LEGO robotics to nature play and metal embossing workshops, there’s truly something for everyone this month. Tune in to learn how your Council is supporting local initiatives, fostering connections, and celebrating district-wide creativity. Keep an eye out for our monthly newsletter—available in local shops, on our website and Facebook page, or by request from the main office—and don’t forget to share your good-news stories by emailing dctumby@tumbybay.sa.gov.au. We’re here to make Tumby Bay the best it can be, together!

    15 min
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All the events and news in Tumby Bay District.

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