Media Releases
2024
Community Invited to Have Say on Cambrai and Mannum Swimming Pools
Mid Murray residents are encouraged to have their say on the future operations of the Mannum and Cambrai swimming pools.
Mid Murray Council has reviewed the services offered at the two pools, and the community’s use of each facility. This forms part of an ongoing process to review all services and programs throughout the district, as Council works towards improved financial sustainability.
Media Release – 19 April 2024 - Community Invited to Have Say on Cambrai and Mannum Swimming Pools
Community Invited To Have Say On Review Of Mid Murray Facilities
Mid Murray residents are being encouraged to have their say on the future operations of community facilities in Morgan and Blanchetown.
The Mid Murray Council has reviewed the services offered at the Morgan Public Library, Morgan Activity Centre and Blanchetown Hub, and the community’s use of each facility. It’s part of an ongoing process that will review all services and programs throughout the Mid Murray district, as the Council works towards improved financial sustainability.
All three facilities have recorded low attendance levels in recent years, and all three require substantial costs to continue operating.
Media Release -28 March 2024 - Community Invited To Have Say On Review Of Mid Murray Facilities
Mid Murray Community Grants Opening Soon
The Mid Murray Council’s Community Grants Program opens for applications on 1 May 2024. The annual program offers a range of grants to assist with community events and projects, as well as a grant stream to support locals attending sport, music, art or other cultural events.
There are some changes to the grants program this year, which applicants should be aware of before they apply.
Media Release - 28 March 2024 - Mid Murray Community Grants Opening Soon
Community To Have Say On Standpipes’ Future
Mid Murray Council is reviewing the use of its water standpipes across the district, and wants the community to have its say on future management options.
The Council currently provides access to 14 standpipes for users to access non‐potable water for residential and livestock use. However, the costs of providing the service have continued to increase in recent years due to frequent vandalism, misuse and water theft.
From 1 January 2024, Council increased the standpipe water supply charges from $5/KL to $7.50/KL to assist in covering some of the costs, but even with the increased charges, the provision of the service still comes at a funding shortfall.
Now the Council is conducting a wider review of the standpipes to consider how they can be more financially sustainable - and whether they should be a service provided by Council
Media Release – 18 March 2024 - Community to Have Say on Standpipes’ Future
Consultation Open On Policies For Outdoor Dining, Display Of Goods On Footpaths
Changes are proposed to the way traders use footpaths or operate outdoor dining areas in the Mid Murray to ensure their use of public spaces doesn’t impact access, safety or amenity.
The Mid Murray Council is seeking community feedback on its plans to update its Display of Goods on a Footpath Policy and its Outdoor Dining Policy.
Consultation Open On By-Law To Improve Management Of Mid Murray Council Campgrounds
Camping areas across the Mid Murray will be covered under an updated by-law to improve the management of campsites across the district.
Mid Murray Council is seeking community feedback on its plans to list specific campsites under its care and control to be covered in its By-law Number 7 – Camping and Mooring.
All aboard for a rare chance to train as a Steam Engineer on historic paddle steamers
The hunt is on for six volunteers to take up the rare opportunity to train as steam engineers to work on some of Australia’s most precious historic paddle steamers – and they’ll receive their training free of charge.
The Mid Murray Council has launched the search for the volunteers, whose work it is hoped will help secure the ongoing sustainable operation of the Council’s heritage vessels, PS Marion and PS Canally.
Media Release - 24 January 2024 - Rare chance to work on historic steamers
Concert Camping, SES Veteran and Young Sports Star Named Mid Murray’s Australia Day Winners
A community club’s temporary camping experience for a major concert, a Blanchetown SES veteran and a young sports achiever have been named as the Mid Murray Council’s Australia Day award winners.
The award winners have been officially announced by the Mid Murray Council at a special morning tea celebration for nominees ahead of Australia Day celebrations on January 26.
‘Imagine The Future’ – Mid Murray Community’s chance to shape new Strategic Plan
Mid Murray Council is asking its community to ‘imagine the future of Mid Murray’ and have their say on a plan to guide the district over the next four years.
The Council has developed its Draft Strategic Plan 2024-2028 and launched a two-month community consultation campaign to ask locals about their vision for their area. It will be used by Council to determine its priorities, projects, services and more into the future.
2023
Mid Murray on the Move! – Economic, Tourism and Development News
An initiative of the Mid Murray Council this newsletter is about promoting and sharing economic, tourism and development news that is occurring throughout our region.
Click here to see the latest edition - December 2023
Mid Murray Council elects New Deputy Mayor
The Mid Murray Council has appointed a new Deputy Mayor to serve the Council and the community over the coming 12 months.
Shearer Ward Councillor Kirsty MacGregor has taken on the role from 28 November, 2023. She replaces Councillor John Forrester, who served in the position over the past year.
Media Release – 1 December 2023 – Mid Murray Council Elects New Deputy Mayor
Mid Murray Council calls for urgent rethink of Truro Bypass funding cut
The Mid Murray Council is urging the Federal Government to reconsider its decision to cut funding for the critical Truro Bypass project.
Planning for the $202 million project has been underway in recent years following a $161.6m commitment from the previous Federal Government, and additional funding committed by the SA Government.
Under the project, a bypass was to be built for the Sturt Highway around the town of Truro to remove through-traffic, especially heavy vehicles, from its main street. Council supported the project, believing it would improve safety for road users, residents and pedestrians, as well as enhancing the amenity of the main street of Truro and productivity of the national road network for freight transport.
Changes to Standpipe Fees
A review of standpipe operations and water usage identified a significant discrepancy of about 8,000 kilolitres between the SA Water meter readings at the pipes and the records of customers’ water use. This cost Council approximately $40,000 in lost revenue.
From 1 January 2024, standpipe water supply charges will increase from $5/KL to $7.50/KL. Users will need to pay in advance when obtaining a standpipe key from a Council office. Those obtaining a key from an agent will be invoiced a minimum charge of $22.50.
Media Release - 13 November 2023 - Changes to Standpipe Fees
Truro Town Master Plan changes following community consultation
Truro’s future looks bright, with a plan to guide its ongoing development and enhancement endorsed by the Mid Murray Council this month.
The Truro Township Master Plan has been refined to take into account community feedback, following extensive consultation on the project.
The plan aims to revitalise Truro’s town centre to support the town’s economic future through its transition once the Truro Freight Route is constructed.
Media Release – 30 October 2023 – Truro Town Master Plan Changes Following Community Consultation
Changes to Operation of Cambrai and Mannum Pools to Maximise Safety
Opening hours at the Cambrai and Mannum pools will change for the 2023/2024 season as the Mid Murray Council puts in place best-practice regulations to improve safety.
To maximise supervision and safety for patrons, the number of days open for each pool will be reduced, with alternating days between facilities to enable the appropriate staffing ratio. The changes are in line with recommendations made by the Royal Life Saving Society for the improved running of both facilities.
New Blanchetown, Swan Reach playgrounds proving a hit for Mid Murray families
Two newly upgraded playgrounds have already proven popular for Mid Murray families and visitors alike over the school holidays.
The new facilities located at the repurposed old Blanchetown Oval and at Swan Reach’s Len White Reserve have been priority recreational projects for the Mid Murray Council – although their delivery was delayed by the recent River Murray flood.
Mobile Food Vendor Rules change to enhance Mid Murray Reserve experience
Visitors and locals will have additional casual dining options in local reserves following the Mid Murray Council’s change in Mobile Food Vendor Location Rules Policy, which make it easier for food vans to set up across the district.
The updated rules reduce the existing setback required for mobile food vendors outside of residential areas from 500m to 250m from other ‘bricks and mortar’ food businesses.
Australia Day Award nominations open
Do you know someone who makes your community a better place?
The Australia Day Awards are proudly presented by the Australia Day Council of South Australia in conjunction with Mid Murray Council.
The awards recognise individuals and organisations that have made a noteworthy contribution during the current year, and/or given outstanding service over a number of years to a local community over and above normal employment duties.
Media Release – 18 October 2023 - Australia Day Award Nominations Open
Mid Murray Transfer Stations shift to sustainable operations
Changes to the operating hours of Mid Murray Council’s Transfer Stations will come into effect on Monday, 2 October.
The changes reflect the declining use of the 10 transfer stations over recent years, and will allow the Mid Murray Council to optimise its operations by redirecting resources to other field services activities such as maintenance activities.
Media Release – 25 September 2023 - Mid Murray Transfer Stations Shift to Sustainable Operations
$42,812 Boost to Mid Murray Community Through Annual Grants Program
Nineteen community groups across the Mid Murray district will share in $42,812.36 in Community Grants to support projects including local events, new equipment and upgraded facilities.
The annual Mid Murray Council Community Grants Program supports organisations with funding to run events, programs and other community, cultural and recreational initiatives.
One Number to Make Contacting Mid Murray Council Faster, Easier
Got an inquiry about your rubbish collection? Need to pay a Council bill? Want to report a wandering dog? Whatever the reason for calling, getting in touch with the Mid Murray Council will soon be even easier.
Media Release – 21 September 2023 - One Number to Make Contacting Mid Murray Council Faster, Easier
Flood Recovery Progresses across Mid Murray
Recovery works are progressing across the Mid Murray Council, as the area continues to rebuild following the devastating 2022/23 summer River Murray flood.
Media Release - 8 August 2023 - Mid Murray Flood recovery update
Mid Murray Budget Balances Flood Recovery, Future Financial Sustainability
The Mid Murray Council has adopted short and long-term planning that balances the need for immediate flood recovery work with its priority to achieve future financial sustainability.
Mid Murray Community asked to have their say on future Council priorities
The Mid Murray community is being asked to have their say on what they believe should be the priorities for the area’s Council into the future.
The Mid Murray Council Community Priorities Survey is now open, and the feedback gathered from local residents, businesses and property owners will help shape changes to the Council’s strategic direction, as well as guiding its long-term sustainability focus.
click on the image below to complete the survey
2023/24 Draft Annual Business Plan & Budget & Long Term Financial Plan 2023/24 - 2032/33
Media Release
Financial sustainability, flood recovery, the focus of Mid Murray Council's Budget
Supporting the ongoing recovery of South Australia’s worst flood-affected Council region is one of the key priorities for Mid Murray Council in the coming financial year.
Media Release 17 May 2023 - Financial sustainability, flood recovery, the focus of Council's Budget
Best-Selling Australian Author Darry Fraser Visits Morgan to Mentor Writers
Acclaimed historical women’s fiction author Darry Fraser has made a name for herself writing best-selling stories that showcase Australia’s rural heritage – and in July she will share some of her secrets with local writers in Morgan.
Mid Murray Community Grants Open Soon
Mid Murray non-profit groups planning local events, programs and other community, cultural or recreational initiatives can apply for a funding boost to help get their projects off the ground.
Applications for the Mid Murray Council’s Community Grants program open on 1 May 2023 and close on 15 June 2023.
Media Release -28 April 2023 - Mid Murray Community Grants Open Soon
Reopening Roads Safely a Priority as Mid Murray Begins Flood Recovery Journey
As waters recede from one of the biggest River Murray floods in living memory, the Mid Murray Council is beginning to count the cost of damage to roads, wastewater infrastructure, reserves, marine assets and more.
$500,000 Tourism voucher boost to get visitors to ‘Rise up for the River’ in Mid Murray
A $500,000 special round of tourism vouchers will ensure that South Australians can support flood-hit Mid Murray operators and businesses when they’re ready to open later this year.
Mid Murray Transfer Station Hours Extended to Assist with Flood Recovery
As part of the flood recovery process, the Mid Murray Council has extended opening hours at seven of its river-based Waste Transfer Stations.
SA Truck and Ute Show and Riverland West Volunteer Named Mid Murray’s Australia Day Winners
SA’s popular Truck and Ute Festival and a dedicated Riverland West volunteer who has given hours of her time to support businesses, tourism and community safety have been honored in the Mid Murray Council’s annual Australia Day awards.
2022
Mid Murray Council Announces Newly Elected Members
Mid Murray’s latest team of Elected Members has been announced, including a mix of new and returning faces.
Media Release - 15 November 2022 - Mid Murray Council Announces Newly Elected Members
Development Approval Gives Green Light To Morgan Workers’ Accommodation Facility
Work will begin on a temporary workers’ accommodation facility for up to 176 people in Morgan, after Mid Murray Council’s Assessment Panel approved the application for the Downer Group development at its October meeting.
Public Notification of Morgan Temporary Housing Development Application
A proposal to build temporary workers’ accommodation for up to 176 people in Morgan has been released for public comment today.
Vote Now to Choose Your Local Representatives on Mid Murray Council
Mid Murray residents, property owners and business owners are being urged to have their say in choosing Elected Members to guide the district’s future over the next four years.
Voting will soon get under way in the SA Local Government elections and, while it’s not compulsory, the Mid Murray Council is encouraging locals to take part.
Media Release – 4 October 2022 - Vote Now to Choose Your Local Representatives on Mid Murray Council
Works Set To Begin On First Stages Of Swan Reach Riverfront Revitalisation
Work will begin on delivering the first stages of a significant revitalisation of Swan Reach’s popular Len White Reserve as early as September.
Stage 1 and 2 of the project include riverbank reclamation works to improve the riverfront area, and an upgrade of the full existing playground. New asphalt paths will also be installed, connecting the playground to existing paths, along with the construction of two disability accessible carparks and a new toilet facility. Works on these stages are expected to begin in late September with completion anticipated in March 2023.
Mid Murray Council Delivers $46,234 Grant Boost For Community Projects
Community projects ranging from life-saving medical equipment to a Family Fun Day, improvements to a popular cycling trail and new sports equipment are among the 24 recipients sharing in almost $46,234 in grant funding.
Draft Road Management Plan Aims To Improve Mid Murray Road Maintenance Efficiency
A new approach to managing rural roads will help improve efficiency, reduce costs and ensure roads are safely maintained under a draft plan created by the Mid Murray Council.
The Council is now seeking community feedback on its Draft Road Management Plan – which sets the relevant standards and direction for Council in relation to its road management works. It outlines how Council can best maintain, renew and upgrade its roads in a cost-effective way.
New Mid Murray Compliance Officer To Tackle Rise In Unlawful Development
The Mid Murray Council will appoint a new Compliance Officer to tackle a rise in illegal development in the district.
The rate of unlawful development has been rising in the area in recent years – with 199 matters currently listed on Council’s register.
The new Compliance Officer position was endorsed by Council in May. The full-time role will be in place for at least the next three years and the position will be reviewed annually. It will ensure Council is adequately resourced to identify and respond to development-related compliance issues.
Nominate Now To Be The Voice For Your Community As A Member Of Mid Murray Council
Are you passionate about your community? Nominate now for the upcoming Local Government elections and you could make a difference for your area.
The Mid Murray Council is encouraging people to consider nominating for Council when nominations open on Tuesday, 23 August 2022 and close at 12pm on Tuesday, 6 September 2022.
Positions available include the role of Mayor, four Councillors in the Shearer Ward, two in the Murray Ward and two in the Eyre Ward.
Rising Murray River Levels prompt call for caution in Mid Murray
Murray River users and property owners along the riverfront and in low-lying areas are encouraged to be cautious as water levels and flows continue to rise.
Flows into SA are expected rise to 53GL per day on Friday, 5 August and hold until around 10 August 2022. Following this the flow will reduce to about 49GL/day by Friday, 12 August.
Media Release - 5 August 2022 - Rising Murray River Levels prompt call for caution in Mid Murray
Council to Share Separate Rate Cost to Cover Water Entitlement Purchase for Mannum Waters
A Separate Rate will be introduced to recover the cost of purchasing a permanent water entitlement required to cover evaporation losses at the Mannum Waters Marina – and the Mid Murray Council will also contribute financially.
Community To Have Say On Proposed Changes To Mid Murray Transfer Station Operations
Mid Murray residents are being asked to have their say on a plan to update the operations of local transfer stations.
Mid Murray on the Move! – Economic, Tourism and Development News
An initiative of the Mid Murray Council this newsletter is about promoting and sharing economic, tourism and development news that is occurring throughout our region.
Click here to see the sixteenth edition
Mid Murray Community Shares Views on Council’s Annual Business Plan, Separate Rate Proposal
The Mid Murray community has shared its views on the Council’s Draft 2022/23 Annual Business Plan and Budget and a proposal to introduce a separate rate to cover the purchase of a permanent water allocation for Mannum Waters.
Mid Murray Welcomes New Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee
Representatives of a new Advisory Committee that will become a voice for the Mid Murray’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on local issues have formally been welcomed into their new roles.
Mid Murray Celebrates NAIDOC Week with Family Fun Day at Mannum
A family fun day at Mannum will bring together the Mid Murray community in a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures to mark NAIDOC Week 2022.
Media Release – 27 June 2022 – Mid Murray Celebrates NAIDOC Week with Family Fun Day at Mannum
Higher Murray River Flows Prompt Alert for Holiday Home Owners in Mid Murray
Forecasts of increasing flows in the Murray River over coming weeks have prompted the Mid Murray Council to alert river users and property owners along the river to be prepared.
Mid Murray Launches New Toy Library Service
Mid Murray families can explore a world of free fun and learning following the launch of the new Mid Murray Toy Library service.
Media Release – 9 June 2022 – Mid Murray Launches New Toy Library Service
Enrol Now to Have Your Voice Heard in Mid Murray Council Elections
Want to make a real difference to the future of the Mid Murray? Then it’s time to make sure you’re enrolled to vote in the upcoming local government elections.
Media Release – 9 June 2022 – Enrol Now to Have Your Voice Heard in Mid Murray Council Elections
Mannum Cricket Clubrooms To Be Removed To Make Way For New RSL Facility
The Mid Murray Council has thrown its support behind an important first step towards the construction of a new RSL Remembrance Facility in Mannum.
Elected Members this month agreed that Council would cover the costs associated with demolishing and removing the Mannum Cricket Clubhouse – a move that will allow the Mannum RSL’s new facility to be built on that site.
Building Strong Economy, Maintaining Financial Sustainability Key In Mid Murray Budget
Planning to build a strong regional economy, a focus on financial sustainability, delivering improved community facilities and services and increasing the Mid Murray’s tourism potential are among the priorities for the district’s Council in the coming financial year.
The Mid Murray Council released its Draft Annual Business Plan and Budget 2022-23 and Draft Long-Term Financial Plan 2022-23 to 2031-32 for community consultation on 12 May 2022.
Food Safety Inspection Fee Relief For Businesses
Food businesses across the Mid Murray Council district will receive assistance in the form of reduced food inspection costs from 1 July 2022.
The Council this month resolved to remove all standard food inspection fee charges from the beginning of the 2022/23 financial year for a 12-month trial. Under the changes, fees will only be charged for follow-up inspections when these are required.
Mid Murray Council Media Release – 21 April 2022 - Food Safety Inspection Fee Relief For Businesses
Mid Murray Community Grants to Open Early
Community groups seeking funding through the Mid Murray Council’s Community Grants program to create and deliver local events, programs and initiatives will need to get their applications in earlier this year.
The Council has brought forward the application period for the grants from August to May, to ensure grant funding is awarded prior to the local government elections later this year.
The application period for the grants will open on 2 May 2022 and close on 15 June 2022. Applications will then be assessed by Council’s Community Grants Assessment Committee.
The annual program provides financial support that has assisted many local projects – from events to upgraded sports facilities, the purchase of potentially life-saving equipment and local history celebrations.
Mid Murray Council Media Release – 20 April 2022 - Mid Murray Community Grants to Open Early
Separate Rate Proposed To Recover Water Entitlement Purchase For Mannum Waters
The Mid Murray Council is seeking feedback from the community - and in particular affected Mannum Waters ratepayers - on a proposal to introduce a Separate Rate to recoup the cost of purchasing a permanent water entitlement for the Marina to cover evaporation loss.
Mid Murray on the Move! – Economic, Tourism and Development News
An initiative of the Mid Murray Council this newsletter is about promoting and sharing economic, tourism and development news that is occurring throughout our region.
Click here to see the fifteenth edition
New Tourism Manager Appointed For Mid Murray
With decades of experience in the tourism sector, Mr Glen is looking forward to working with Council and operators to grow the potential of the visitor economy within the Mid Murray region.
Input needed for Mid Murray waste review
The Mid Murray Council is conducting a six-month review of parts of its existing waste management services, including its approach to hard waste disposal and the operations of its transfer stations.
The review aims to ensure that services are continuing to meet community needs following recent changes that were recommended as part of a much wider review of all of Council’s waste management services during 2021.
Those changes include the removal of free dump trailer vouchers and the introduction of new free hard waste disposal days rotating across transfer stations.
Mid Murray residents and ratepayers are being asked to have their say about these changes and their hard waste management needs.
To have your say, please complete our online survey here https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/78DSM38. Your feedback will be considered by Council’s Waste Management Advisory Committee, which will develop a number of hard waste management options for the Council to consider.
Consultation opens on 21 March 2022 and closes on 15 April 2022.
Media Release - Input needed for Mid Murray waste review
Call to Join Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee
A new advisory committee will bring together members of the Mid Murray Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to give them a stronger voice in shaping the district’s future.
The Mid Murray Council is establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee to better engage, collaborate and build stronger relationships with the district’s Traditional Custodians.
Click on the image below for link to further information
Swan Reach Riverfront Revitalisation Moves a Step Closer
Improvements to Swan Reach’s popular Len White Reserve are moving closer, with plans for a new playground, enhanced riverbank area and new connecting paths set to go out to tender soon, and new toilets to be installed this year.
Media Release - 11 March 2022 - Swan Reach Riverfront Revitalisation Moves a Step Closer
Call For Community Input To Help Develop Mid Murray Reconciliation Action Plan
Mid Murray residents are being urged to share their thoughts and play an instrumental part in shaping the region’s future approach to reconciliation.
The Mid Murray Council has begun the process of developing its first Reconciliation Action Plan to guide cultural awareness, policy development, activities and initiatives that foster reconciliation and recognise the district’s significant cultural heritage.
Mid Murray Welcomes New Ward Councillor
The Mid Murray Council announced the election of its newest Councillor, Deb Brokenshire, on Friday, 25 February 2022.
A supplementary election was held to fill a vacancy for a Ward Councillor in the Eyre Ward, following the sad passing of Councillor Dennis McCarthy.
Voting in the supplementary election closed 12:00 noon Monday, 21 February 2022, with 607 formal votes received and three candidates contesting the vacancy.
Following the count on Tuesday, Mrs Brokenshire was provisionally elected on 263 votes, ahead of Jakob Gamertsfelder and Wayne Tredrea, with the result of the election confirmed by Electoral Commission SA on Friday 25 February 2022. Mrs Brokenshire will officially start her duties at the next Council meeting in March.
Media Release - 25 February 2022 - Mid Murray Welcomes New Ward Councillor
The race is on to register for a fun-filled day at the Mannum Fun Run and Walk
Pull on your sneakers and get ready to have some fun – the Mannum Fun Run and Walk is back for 2022 and registrations are open now.
Now in its 11th year, the popular annual event will return with a change of location this year to accommodate COVID-19 restrictions. People of all ages and abilities will gather at the Mannum Football Oval on Sunday, 27 February for a morning of fun and fitness.
Community Feedback, Draft Building, Land & Structures Asset Management Plan
Mid Murray residents are being asked to have their say on a proposed plan for the future management of the district’s many public buildings and facilities – including an option to sell or remove some assets that are no longer used or present a risk to the community.
The Mid Murray Council has released a Draft Buildings, Land and Structures Infrastructure and Asset Management Plan for community feedback.
Firefighter, Young Sports Star and New Music Festival Named Mid Murray’s Australia Day Winners
A new music festival, a long-serving volunteer firefighter and a young dirt go-kart star have been honoured in the Mid Murray Council’s annual Australia Day awards.
The winners were formally announced at an afternoon tea on 11 January, which also recognised the efforts and achievements of all nominees.