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Fin
Dunford

Report warns Hills properties could become ‘uninsurable’

Mayo has the third-highest climate risk among Federal electorates in Australia, rendering many properties potentially “uninsurable”, according to a recent climate risk analysis report. The report was released by the Climate Council and Climate...

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Fin Dunford

04 Jun 2025

Council and Politics

Mayo still in Liberal’s sights

The president of the SA Liberals says Mayo is “still very much in the Liberal Party’s sights” after the recent Federal election, despite Liberal candidate Zane Basic falling to third place behind Labor in what was once a safe Liberal seat...

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Fin Dunford

21 May 2025

Council and Politics

More Federal funding sought for freeway bypass project

The State Government will continue to seek an 80:20 split funding model for the $1 billion greater Adelaide freight bypass in the wake of the Federal election, while the State Opposition has re-affirmed its $211m commitment to the project. Ahead of...

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Fin Dunford

14 May 2025

Council and Politics

Rail, health and living costs on the agenda

MP Rebekha Sharkie says her key priorities for the new Federal term include bringing rail back to the Hills and securing a new urgent care clinic at Mt Barker, as she looks set to retain the seat of Mayo. As of 3pm on Tuesday, May 6, Ms Sharkie led...

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Fin Dunford

07 May 2025

News

Drought, disease threats loom for apiarists

A Lenswood honey producer says the industry is “incredibly vulnerable” after being severely impacted by drought and the looming threat of varroa mite. Buzz Honey owner Annette Ferris said that a lack of rain was preventing native plants from...

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Fin Dunford

07 May 2025

News

Gather Round backtrack

The Mt Barker Council has backtracked on a statement made by its Mayor that it would not seek another Gather Round game at the Summit Sport and Recreation Park (SSRP) for at least three years. Speaking with The Courier in both February and earlier...

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Fin Dunford

30 Apr 2025

News

Plea for rain: farmers dry seed as drought continues

Local croppers are being forced to seed without rain, as the State’s drought continues. Despite some parts of the Hills recording more than 20mm of rain last week, Strathalbyn agronomist Riley Oborn said his local area received less than 2mm in...

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Fin Dunford

30 Apr 2025

News

Early flu warning

With flu season set to start early this year, a Mt Barker GP is encouraging Hills residents to get vaccinated. Mt Barker Balhannah Medical Clinics GP Brent Prior said receiving a flu shot benefited the individual, but also protected others. Dr Prior...

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Fin Dunford

23 Apr 2025

News

Gather game handballed

Mt Barker Mayor David Leach has ruled out bidding to host a Gather Round game at the Summit Sport and Recreation Park for at least three years following the weekend’s fixtures in the Barossa. Speaking to The Courier this week, Mr Leach said he...

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Fin Dunford

16 Apr 2025

News

Coalition raises Labor’s bypass pledge

A Coalition Federal Government would fund 80% of a freight bypass around the Hills – upping Labor’s 50% funding promise – also vowing that works would begin this year. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton this week promised $840m for the project, if...

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Fin Dunford

09 Apr 2025

News

More drought funding released

The State Government has announced $55m of new funding for drought-affected farmers, after State Opposition calls for a formal State Emergency were rejected. The new funding was announced on Tuesday, informed by roundtable discussions with producers...

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Fin Dunford

09 Apr 2025

News

‘Deep Sea’ to help foster greater ocean connections

A former Cornerstone College student has been recognised as one of the best artists among her Year 12 cohort, winning one of seven awards at the 2025 SACE Art Show. Balhannah resident Karina van Pelt graduated at the end of last year. For her final...

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Fin Dunford

02 Apr 2025

News

Advocates still pushing for uni hub

The local regional development board will continue to advocate for a university study hub at Mt Barker, with the Federal Government announcing further funding for regional and suburban hubs in the Federal Budget. The program aims to create tertiary...

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Fin Dunford

02 Apr 2025