Council advises that the Ardrossan Jetty will be closed from Monday, 1 September 2025 to allow commencement of the Ardrossan Jetty works.
From this date:
Council thanks the community for their patience and understanding while these essential works are undertaken.
Please be advised that the monthly Council Information and Briefing Session scheduled for Wednesday, 27 August at 5.30pm in the Minlaton Council Chambers has been cancelled.
We apologise for any inconvenience.
Yorke Peninsula Council has endorsed further measures to support local businesses, tourism operators, and the broader community as the harmful algal bloom continues to impact the region’s economy.
At its August meeting, Council resolved to waive all professional boat ramp permit fees for the remainder of 2025/26 and put its Bush Campgrounds on special to encourage visitation and local holidays during periods of low demand.
Acting Mayor Richard Carruthers said the harmful algal bloom had been challenging for many in the community, particularly those in tourism and fishing industries.
“Our coastal communities and businesses have been hit hard by this bloom, and we are committed to providing practical support,” Acting Mayor Carruthers said.
“These initiatives are designed to put money back in locals’ pockets, stimulate visitation, and encourage people to enjoy everything Yorke Peninsula still has to offer.”
Under the changes, professional boat ramp users—such as commercial fishers and charter boats—will have their permit fees waived for the remainder of the financial year.
Refunds will be issued to those who have already paid, with eligibility based on proof of commercial activity.
Council also resolved to amend its bush camping fees for 2025/26 to:
These adjustments follow concerns raised by businesses and community members about winter trade being down and potential reduced tourism numbers over summer.
Bush camping bookings are also down when compared with the five-year average since the bloom was first detected off Yorke Peninsula in April.
“We’ve heard directly from business owners and residents about the financial strain this situation is causing,” Acting Mayor Carruthers said.
“By discounting Bush Camping and keeping our Yorke Peninsula Council Holiday Parks on sale, we hope to bring more people to the region and encourage our own residents to explore their own backyard.”
Yorke Peninsula Council has launched an online marketing campaign, “It’s Not All Doom and Bloom” to support local businesses during the ongoing harmful algal bloom.
Within the first 24 hours, the first video in the series was viewed more than 18,000 times and shared nearly 150 times, highlighting strong community interest and engagement.
The campaign features a series of short, light-hearted videos showcasing the unique attractions, local produce, and welcoming communities across the Yorke Peninsula.
By combining stunning footage of the region with a touch of humour, the videos aim to raise awareness of the challenges businesses are facing due to the algal bloom, while encouraging residents and visitors to continue supporting them.
Council staff visited local businesses across the peninsula, speaking directly with owners and operators to understand the impacts of the bloom.
Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with businesses welcoming the initiative and appreciating the support from Council.
“The response to the campaign has been incredible,” Acting Mayor Richard Carruthers said.
“These videos not only show the resilience and creativity of our local businesses but also remind everyone that there’s still so much to see, do, taste, and enjoy on the Yorke Peninsula.
“Even during challenging times, our community spirit shines through.”
The first video in the series is narrated by Dalrymple Hotel publican Rob Rankine, who came up with the concept and catchphrase.
“You’ve heard about the bloom and yes, the coast is doing it tough,” Mr Rankine said in the video.
“Yorkes needs your support, and lucky for you there’s so much to discover and enjoy — from the coast to the country.
“Yorke Peninsula is open — all of it. So, spend a little, smile a lot, and remember… it’s not all doom and bloom.”
Council encourages everyone to watch, share, and support local businesses by exploring the experiences and services featured in the campaign.
The videos will continue to be released on Council’s social media channels over the coming weeks, highlighting a wide variety of businesses, activities, and attractions across the region.
The video can be viewed here.
IT was an emotional moment for many as the Saltbush Country exhibition opened in the Ascot Gallery, Kadina, on Saturday, 10 August.
For Narungga women Lynette Newchurch, of Port Victoria, and her sister Deanna Newchurch, of Point Pearce, it was the first time their award-winning works had been displayed on Country.
Lynette and Deanna are two of seven First Nations artists involved in Saltbush Country, which is touring the state from 2024 to 2026.
The exhibition features a wide range of art styles, and one highlight is a genuine possum-skin coat created by Lynette and Deanna, the first of its kind to be produced using traditional methods in over 100 years. Lynette has also contributed intricate shell necklaces, while other pieces range from paintings to sculptures and textiles.
Speaking at the official opening, Lynette said it meant a lot to have her art displayed on Narungga Country.
She and Deanna were joined at the opening by Saltbush Country artists Heather Shearer, of Port Augusta, and Josephine Lennon, of Ceduna. Also in attendance were curator Marika Davies and Chief Executive Anthony Peluso from Country Arts SA, which presents the exhibition tour, along with a range of invited guests.
Yorke Peninsula Council contacted Country Arts SA to bring Saltbush Country to Yorke Peninsula after staff discussed the possibility with Lynette. It just so happened that the one month when Saltbush Country was still available in 2025 was August, when Council holds its Grounded YP Art Festival.
“At Yorke Peninsula Council we were determined to bring Saltbush Country to Guuranda (Yorke Peninsula),” Manager Economic Development Nick Perry said.
“We did not have any gallery spaces that would meet the requirements to house such an important and valuable collection, so we are incredibly thankful to Copper Coast Council, Copper Country Keepsakes, the Copper Coast Art Group and Country Arts SA for working with us so positively toward this great outcome.
“Saltbush Country is being exhibited locally as part of the Grounded YP Art Festival, a 10-day festival with over 50 events spread right throughout the region.
“I strongly encourage everyone to check out Saltbush Country in the Ascot Gallery, Kadina, and also to get involved with the many events, concerts and workshops happening for Grounded YP Art Festival from 15-24 August.”
Saltbush Country is in the Ascot Gallery, Kadina, and is open to the public 10am to 3.30pm weekdays throughout August.
For more information about Saltbush and all other events happening for Grounded Yorke Peninsula Art Festival, visit www.ypart.com.au.
Yorke Peninsula’s rich agricultural and seafood heritage will take centre stage at The Yorke Table, a signature event of the GROUNDED YP Art Festival.
Set to take place on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, from 6pm to 9pm at the stunning Barley Stacks Wines, this exclusive dining experience promises to be a feast for the senses.
Renowned local chef Caroline Bonnett of MBC Foods will craft a gourmet menu that highlights the freshest, locally sourced ingredients from the region’s leading primary producers.
Paired with tastings of locally crafted beer, wine, and spirits, guests will enjoy a uniquely curated evening celebrating the diverse flavours that make Yorke Peninsula a standout food destination.
Arts & Cultural Facilitator Molly Flanagan-Sjoberg said the event perfectly embodies the spirit of GROUNDED — connecting art, culture, community, and local enterprise.
“The Yorke Table is more than just a dinner — it’s a celebration of the people and producers who bring incredible quality and flavour to our region,” Molly said.
“By weaving together food, storytelling, and live music, this event creates a unique cultural experience that showcases the best of Yorke Peninsula on one table.”
Guests will also gain fascinating insights into Yorke Peninsula’s primary industries through brief presentations by key local producers, alongside live music from talented local musician Caleb Raymond.
A curated selection of produce samples will be available to taste throughout the evening, adding to the immersive experience.
Tickets are limited for this intimate event. Guests are encouraged to book a table of eight to ensure they sit together and enjoy a communal dining experience, with savings on booking fees.
To find out more or to book visit https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-yorke-table-tickets-1432998700689.
Event Details:
Date & Time: Wednesday, 20 August 2025, 6pm–9pm (doors open 5:30pm)
Location: Barley Stacks Wines, 159 Lizard Park Drive, Yorke Valley, SA 5573
Industry Partners: Barley Stacks Wines, Sunny Hill Distillery, Watsacowie, Lost Tide Distillery, Spencer Gulf King Prawns, Babbage Farm Lamb & Beef, Cheetham Salt, Olsson’s Salt, Pacific Estate Oysters, Port Vincent Oysters, Southern Yorke Oysters, Lower Yorke Seafood, Anna Binna, Minlaton Bakery
Yorke Peninsula will burst into colour, sound, and creativity as the GROUNDED YP Art Festival returns from 15–24 August 2025.
For 10 vibrant days, towns across the peninsula will be transformed into stages, galleries, and creative spaces, with more than 30 workshops, performances, and events alongside captivating exhibitions showcasing the extraordinary talent of South Australian artists.
From glowing interactive light installations to soulful live music, from hands-on creative workshops to large-scale coastal performances, GROUNDED is set to inspire, connect, and delight locals and visitors alike.
Arts & Cultural Facilitator Molly Flanagan-Sjoberg said the festival has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated celebrations.
“GROUNDED is all about celebrating the diversity of creativity on Yorke Peninsula while also creating opportunities for visitors and locals to come together, learn, and be inspired,” she said.
“The festival not only enriches our arts and culture scene but also supports local businesses, strengthens community pride, and welcomes visitors to experience the beauty and hospitality of our region.”
This year’s festival continues to grow, thanks to the enthusiastic support of local progress associations and the Yorke Peninsula Arts & Cultural Working Group, helping deliver exciting events in multiple towns.
GROUNDED builds on the strong foundations and community partnerships developed through the former YP Art Exhibition.
The festival continues to feature major art exhibitions in three key townships, alongside an expanded program of workshops, music, and performances across the region.
“We are committed to making Yorke Peninsula a must-visit destination — not just for our stunning beaches and landscapes, but for our vibrant cultural experiences,” Ms Flanagan-Sjoberg said.
“From exhibitions and performances to hands-on workshops, GROUNDED is an invitation to connect — with art, with culture, and with each other.”
The Fine Art Exhibition will be hosted at Maitland Town Hall, while the Sculpture and Photography Exhibitions will be held at Edithburgh Institute.
These exhibitions will be open daily throughout the festival.
For more information visit https://ypart.com.au/.
Event Highlights
Sea of Light
Step into a glowing world of imagination with this interactive light installation where you become the artist. Armed with a UV torch, you can paint, stencil, and steer glowing ships across the sea floor, leaving trails of light in your wake. The gentle soundtrack and magical visuals make this an unforgettable family experience — perfect for children and the young at heart.
Weekends: 10am–4pm
Weekdays: 3.30pm–6.30pm
Free for the whole family
The Exquisite Familiar
A fascinating and immersive exhibition where South Australian artists explore disability experiences using the ‘exquisite corpse’ method of art-making. The works feature imaginative “familiars” — symbolic creatures representing personal journeys, barriers, and resilience. Visitors are encouraged to interact, reflect, and engage in conversation.
As an ongoing project, The Exquisite Familiar offers artists and participants meaningful ways to contribute, share stories, and expand the work over time.
Weekends: 10am–3pm
Free entry
School and community group bookings by appointment
Beating Up The Beatles – Charlee Watt with Karina Voigt
The Beatles as you’ve never heard them before — reimagined with swing, sway, and soul. Award-winning regional cabaret artist Charlee Watt brings fresh energy to Lennon & McCartney classics, backed by a band of talented multi-instrumentalists. Supported by Yorke Peninsula’s own rising star Karina Voigt, this promises an uplifting night of world-class vocals, musicianship, and pure entertainment.
Saturday 16 August, 7pm–9pm
Stansbury Institute
Lanterns and Fire – The Story of Widhadha
A spectacular finale to the festival, this large-scale outdoor performance fuses fire, light and storytelling inspired by Nharangga cultural history. As twilight falls, the Marion Bay shoreline comes alive with a glowing procession of community-made lanterns, leading into a performance featuring local artists, school students, and community. This powerful work celebrates connection to Country, love of Yorke Peninsula coastlines, and community spirit in a breathtaking sensory experience.
Saturday 23 August, Marion Bay shoreline
Free community event — dress warmly
For more information visit https://ypart.com.au/whats-on.
Judging panel announcement
The 2025 exhibition winners will be selected by an esteemed panel of artists, each bringing a wealth of experience, creativity, and industry recognition to the task.
Ngarrpadla Daphne Paringangki Rickett – A Kaurna, Ngarrindjeri, Latji Latji, and Nharangga woman, Daphne is a respected Elder and highly regarded artist known for her deep knowledge of the traditional use of Australian plants. For more than three decades, she has used her art to share cultural stories, engage communities, and foster understanding between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. Daphne’s dynamic works, created in a variety of media, have featured in exhibitions across South Australia and are held in both public and private collections. Her lifelong commitment to education, reconciliation, and cultural preservation has made her a beloved leader and mentor.
Anna Small
An award-winning sculptor and experienced curator, Anna studied at the North Adelaide School of Art before embarking on a career that has seen her work exhibited widely across Australia. In 2017, she founded the Fleurieu Arthouse in McLaren Vale — an artisan hub providing a platform for visual artists to connect with each other and the public. Anna’s sculptural works often explore themes of nature, memory, and storytelling, combining technical skill with a strong sense of place. Her dual perspective as both artist and curator gives her a keen eye for originality, craftsmanship, and narrative strength in the works she judges.
Karen Waller – A Master Photographer with an extensive list of national and international accolades, Karen’s work spans portraiture, nature, aerial, and landscape photography. Her images are shaped by themes of identity, vulnerability, resilience, and the passage of time. Karen has been recognised as South Australian AIPP Epson Portrait Photographer of the Year on multiple occasions and has been a finalist in prestigious competitions such as the National Photographic Portrait Prize. In 2022, she won the Portrait Story Category in the International Portrait Photographer of the Year and continues to collect awards, including multiple wins at the 2025 Australian Photographic Prize. With a background in painting, Karen brings a unique artistic sensibility to her photography, creating powerful and thought-provoking images that resonate deeply with audiences.
The Marion Bay Depot Library has officially returned to the community hall, bringing the service full circle to its original home.
As part of Yorke Peninsula Council’s School Community Library partnership with the Department for Education, Marion Bay is home to one of Council’s oldest depot libraries.
Operated on a volunteer basis from a local resident’s verandah for many years, the library moved to a more permanent location in the community hall during the 1980s.
In 2004, it was relocated to the Marion Bay Historical Centre.
Built in 1997 by Mr Keith Nelson, the historical centre was gifted to Council along with his maritime collection.
At the time, the Marion Bay Progress Association formed a sub-committee to care for the collection and volunteer time to open the centre to the public.
As volunteer numbers declined, the Depot Library was moved into the historical centre to provide regular opening hours for both the library and the maritime display.
Now, with renewed interest in the maritime collection following the development of the Memorial Walk, the historical centre will undergo updates — and the Depot Library has returned to the Community Hall.
“We’re excited to see the Marion Bay Depot Library return to the Community Hall,” Team Leader HR & People Experience Carina Congdon said.
“This move will provide better access for the community to both the Depot Library and the maritime collection and allow the town to refresh and celebrate its rich maritime history.”
The Marion Bay Depot Library is open to the public on Wednesdays from 10am to 12pm. Residents and visitors are encouraged to drop in and explore everything the library has to offer.
Get local information, kerbside waste collection reminders and report issues on your iPhone or Android device. Read more on our website, or visit www.lga.sa.gov.au/my-local-services-app
