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