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© 2025 Barossa Leader
Community News

Countdown is on for Barossa Park

Barossa Park is on track to launch for the upcoming Gather Round, with building fit-out, cricket pavilion and landscaping well underway, and new acrylic courts and playground to commence shortly. Ground floor fit-out of the multi-use facility is now...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Education

Students’ Vines and Wines success

Nuriootpa High School’s Vines and Wines program continues to make its mark, with students proudly launching their latest award-winning wines, now available for purchase. The program offers students hands-on experience in every stage of winemaking...

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The Leader
11 hours ago
Community News

Harrison Rice wins Kegel Club Challenge

By Tony RobinsonHarrison Rice, a medical student, from the University of Adelaide currently working in our region with a group of other like minded students, is this year’s trophy winner of the Flinders University MD Rural Stream Barossa Valley...

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Tony Robinson
12 hours ago
Cricket

‘Kapunda Quick’ on fire at Ashes

At the historic Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where Australia defeated England by an innings and 122 runs to collect an Ashes series whitewash across the past month, Darcie Brown played her role as a firebrand quick. Captain Alyss...

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The Leader
10 hours ago
Community News

Penfolds to close Barossa Cellar door

Penfolds Cellar Door at Nuriootpa has advised it will close in June 2025, confirming the decision to The Leader via a statement. A Penfolds’ spokesperson advised, “While we have made this decision to close our Barossa Valley Cellar Door, our...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Barossa Vintage Festival

Ringing in the vintage season

By Clem StanleyAs is tradition at the now 135 year old winery, Monday saw the ringing of the vintage bell at Chateau Tanunda, signalling the beginning of the grape harvest season for the team. Senior Winemaker, Jeremy Ottawa, told The Leader that the...

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Clem Stanley
12 hours ago
Emergency Services

Fatal five: a deadly combo

“Don’t think it can’t happen to you,” is the message Deputy group officer for the Northern Barossa Group CFS, Michael Furnell wants drivers in the Barossa to consider before taking to the road. “It could be just a moment of inattention,”...

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Matthew Webster
12 hours ago
Community News

Fare call: Local taxi service makes changes ahead of rideshare rollout

Operators of Barossa & Light Cab Service and Barossa Valley Taxis have made the difficult decision to cease a number of their usual taxi services, which they anticipate will likely have a significant impact on customers. Director of Operations...

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Mel Jaunay
12 hours ago
Barossa Vintage Festival

Charlie rolls out the Barossa Vintage welcome mat

By Clem StanleyThe Barossa Vintage Festival is filled with traditions and mainstay events which make it one of the most beloved celebrations. One familiar local face, who has made an appearance at every festival since 1993, is Nuriootpa volunteer...

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Clem Stanley
11 hours ago
Community News

Some Barossans like it hot at Marilyn Jetty Swim

On Sunday, Jenny Mildred (of Nuriootpa) and daughters Lara Stevens and Sharlene Fisher, Lara’s Partner Craig Wilton and Lara’s son Ethan (aged 10), participated in the Marilyn Jetty Swim at Brighton, despite high temperatures, in support of Cancer...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Education

Sister city in their sights

By Matt WebsterA contingent of eight students from Nuriootpa High School is getting ready to travel almost 15,000 km to the Barossa Valley’s sister city in Grapevine, Texas in September. The Year 11 and 12 students who have been selected to take part...

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Matthew Webster
12 hours ago
Health

Hospital suites could entice specialists to Barossa

By Mel JaunayFor almost as long as he can remember, Ian Plush’s life has involved visits to hospitals and specialist doctors. Diagnosed with diabetes at the age of four, the now 58-year-old from Nuriootpa spent a good portion of his early life...

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Mel Jaunay
12 hours ago
Community News
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Community News

Devoted to BAFFC, her family and a life of helping others

A tribute to the late Julie Combe Julie Ann Combe was born on June 2, 1947 the daughter of Winifred Louise and Vassie Ernest Cronin. Known by Julie, Jules, Lulu – and a myriad of other terms of endearment, what is lesser known is that Julie had...

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The Leader
10 hours ago
Community News

Gawler gears up for its biggest metal night yet

Gawler gears up for its biggest metal night yetThe Prince Albert Hotel at Gawler is set to shake to its foundations on Friday, February 7, as Metal on Murray VII brings a powerhouse lineup of heavy acts. Headlined by one of Australia’s premier...

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Matthew Webster
12 hours ago
Community News

Fare call: Local taxi service makes changes ahead of rideshare rollout

Operators of Barossa & Light Cab Service and Barossa Valley Taxis have made the difficult decision to cease a number of their usual taxi services, which they anticipate will likely have a significant impact on customers. Director of Operations...

Click here

Mel Jaunay
12 hours ago
Emergency Services

Fatal five: a deadly combo

“Don’t think it can’t happen to you,” is the message Deputy group officer for the Northern Barossa Group CFS, Michael Furnell wants drivers in the Barossa to consider before taking to the road. “It could be just a moment of inattention,”...

Click here

Matthew Webster
12 hours ago
Barossa Vintage Festival
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Barossa Vintage Festival

Ringing in the vintage season

By Clem StanleyAs is tradition at the now 135 year old winery, Monday saw the ringing of the vintage bell at Chateau Tanunda, signalling the beginning of the grape harvest season for the team. Senior Winemaker, Jeremy Ottawa, told The Leader that the...

Click here

Clem Stanley
12 hours ago
Barossa Vintage Festival

Charlie rolls out the Barossa Vintage welcome mat

By Clem StanleyThe Barossa Vintage Festival is filled with traditions and mainstay events which make it one of the most beloved celebrations. One familiar local face, who has made an appearance at every festival since 1993, is Nuriootpa volunteer...

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Clem Stanley
11 hours ago
Barossa Vintage Festival

Prepare to Scare-crow

The Barossa Vintage Festival would not be the same without the much-loved regional scarecrow displays - whether they’re part of the formal competition or just to boost community spirit in the lead up to the event. Not surprisingly, constructing...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Photo Galleries
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Photo Galleries

Up close and personal with Australia’s wildlife

Kapunda Library hosted two sessions with Animals Anonymous on Friday, allowing children to see and hold some of Australia’s iconic animals. There were snakes, goannas, possums and crocodiles that were showcased by Animals Anonymous, who educated...

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Jeremy Nash
11 Oct 2023
Community News

Eve celebrates her special birthday at A Night of Music

It’s not very often that 462 people sing Happy Birthday to you but that is exactly what happened for Eve Herring, of Greenock who celebrated her special 18th Birthday with friends and family together with a special cake and sparklers presented by...

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Tony Robinson
20 Sep 2023
Community News

Mount Pleasant heats up with Caravan Park launch

The Barossa Council Mayor Bim Lange spoke at the official opening of Mount Pleasant Caravan Park last Saturday, after a $2.4 million investment from The Barossa Council and the State Government. Mayor Lange shared with attendees on the day, “Many...

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The Leader
16 Aug 2023
Sport

Rams Farewell Lyndoch in fine form

As the Barossa Rams Rugby Club reflected on their 18 years calling Lyndoch Oval home, in their final fixture at the ground before moving into shiny new facilities in Tanunda next year, the current Senior sides turned on two clinics, scoring...

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The Leader
16 Aug 2023
Sport
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Sport

SA Squashing it at Tanunda

On Saturday, Squash players from across the state descended on the Barossa Valley for the 2025 Barossa Open, which was held on Friday January 31 and Saturday February 1, at The Rex, Tanunda. The Rex is one of the biggest squash centres in South...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Sport

Making waves for 2025 SA Country Swimming Championships

On January 4, 2025 a team of 36 Wavemakers from the Barossa Swimming Club travelled to Mt Gambier for the 2025 SA Country Swimming Championships. After an incredible lead up and ‘Countries Camp’ in the Barossa, the team settled on the hashtag...

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The Leader
29 Jan 2025
Sport

Tour Down Under Wrap-Up

You could be forgiven for thinking a new law had been passed, and it was now compulsory to wear lycra when walking through the main street of Tanunda last Wednesday morning. In reality, it was the thousands of cycling fans who had made their...

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Matthew Webster
29 Jan 2025
Sport

A showcase of world class cycling in the Barossa

You could be forgiven for thinking a new law had been passed, and it was now compulsory to wear lycra when walking through the main street of Tanunda last Wednesday morning. In reality, it was the thousands of cycling fans who had made their...

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Matthew Webster
24 Jan 2025
Sport

Mt Pleasant Pony Club hosts debut event for 2025

Mount Pleasant Pony Club hosted its first meet of the year at the end of last week. Starting on Friday, January 10, the event featured the annual Freshman’s Showjumping day that the Club hosts each January. The club hosts the event to encourage...

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Matthew Webster
15 Jan 2025
Sport

Two series podiums for Go-Kart Ace

By Clem StanleyAngaston local, Sam Spiteri, 14, travelled to Melbourne over the weekend to receive two significant accolades for his achievements in the Victorian Country Go-Karting series. Sam received an overall third place trophy for the 2024...

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Clem Stanley
18 Dec 2024
Sport

Flinders Uni grant for Nuri Tigers

Nuriootpa Rover Football Club has been granted $2000 through the Flinders University Rural and Remote Health SA (FRRHSA) Community Partnership Grant. Communities within the local government areas of Flinders University Rural and Remote Health S...

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The Leader
04 Dec 2024
Entertainment
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Entertainment

A spectacular night in the forest

The ‘Forest Frolic’ attendees will be treated to a spectacular dinner dance in the forest as Wirraminna Care prepares to host its 12th event on February 15. The amazing atmosphere will feature Acoustic Echo, which will perform live music to dance...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Community News

Gawler gears up for its biggest metal night yet

Gawler gears up for its biggest metal night yetThe Prince Albert Hotel at Gawler is set to shake to its foundations on Friday, February 7, as Metal on Murray VII brings a powerhouse lineup of heavy acts. Headlined by one of Australia’s premier...

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Matthew Webster
12 hours ago
Free to Read
Entertainment

Local Gig Guide - February

Who’s playing around the Barossa this month?

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The Leader
06 Nov 2024
Rural
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Rural

Keeping the light shining in the grape and wine industry

In a fluctuating agricultural and viticultural climate, supporting the mental health and wellbeing of Barossa grape growers and winemakers has become an important focus in the community. Foundation Barossa has tapped into this need, raising $8,475...

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Jennifer Minns
18 Dec 2024
Rural

Projections show SA grain harvest contributions down by more than $1bn

For many farmers, ‘harvest’ has been a misnomer this year, with unusually dry conditions in the region and widely across SA. So when the State Government announced an $18 million investment to assist farming communities affected by drought across...

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The Leader
04 Dec 2024
Rural

Nine years since Pinery Fire

Monday marked nine years since the devastating Pinery Fire tore through regions in and around Freeling, Wasleys and Roseworthy. It threatened Gawler, Hewett, Daveyston, Shea-oak Log, Kapunda, Eudunda, Nuriootpa, Greenock and others, and sent black...

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The Leader
27 Nov 2024
Rural

Slow recovery from early frosts

By Mavis Podokolo The severe frosts that hit wine grape growers in the Barossa early in the season have caused some damage, but recovery is slowly underway. An early bud burst occurred due to dry soil, lack of moisture, and other challenging...

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The Leader
13 Nov 2024
Rural

Don’t let your harvest spark a fire

With harvest underway, Grain Producers SA (GPSA) is again launching the ‘Don’t Be a Bright Spark’campaign — an important reminder to put preventative measures in place to reduce fire risk to ensure the safety of grain producers across South...

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The Leader
23 Oct 2024
Rural

Assessing frost damage to grapevines through satellite mapping

The South Australian Government is assisting grape growers with future planning by using satellite imagery to map the extent of frost damage caused to vineyards across the state. Experts in satellite image analytics will use date sensitive imagery to...

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The Leader
23 Oct 2024
Rural

Farmers and 3G network shutdown

Small and family businesses need to ensure vital business systems and equipment don’t fail when the 3G network is switched off on October 28, says the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson.“Many of us do not...

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The Leader
23 Oct 2024
Motoring
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Motoring

Honda delivers with intelligent hybrid range

By Jennifer MinnsHonda is proving that it’s ahead of the game, with efficient hybrid systems now available across all models.“Honda has one of the best hybrid systems on the market,“ said Martin Ludwig, Barossa Honda New Vehicle Sales...

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Jennifer Minns
11 Dec 2024
Motoring

The Mazda BT-50 beast brings its brawn to the Barossa

If you’re looking for comfort, luxury and a vehicle with grunt for your off-road adventures, then the 2024 Mazda BT-50 is ready and revving for you at the Barossa Mazda dealership. The Mazda BT-50 is a highly customisable vehicle, with an outrageous...

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Jennifer Minns
09 Oct 2024
Motoring

Angela Hay: This is my ride

Name: Angela Hay Business: Client care representative, Barossa Veterinary Service Make and model: 2017 VF Commodore SSV Redline How long have you owned this car? Purchased new in 2017, so seven years now. What’s the purpose of this car? It’s my...

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Jennifer Minns
10 Jul 2024
Police News
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Police News

WAKE UP BAROSSA: SAPOL pleads with the community following another serious collision

The notorious Stockwell Road and Penrice Road intersection at Light Pass was in the spotlight again this week following a collision between a hatchback and a bus, carrying school children, last Tuesday afternoon. Seriously injuring the driver of the...

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Gretel Mead
14 Aug 2024
Police News

Wake up Barossa

SAPOL pleads with the community following another serious collision The notorious Stockwell Road and Penrice Road intersection at Light Pass was in the spotlight again this week following a collision between a hatchback and a bus, carrying school...

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Gretel Mead
14 Aug 2024
Police News

“Bicycle Bandit” pleads guilty to aggravated robbery

On Monday, South Australia’s “bicycle bandit”, Kym Allen Parsons, pleaded guilty to 10 counts of aggravated robbery. Accused of carrying out armed hold-ups in and around the Barossa over a decade-long period, the 73-year-old offender appeared...

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The Leader
19 Jun 2024
Police News

March SAPOL crime statistics

Theft and related offending has risen by 12 per cent in South Australia over the past year – largely driven by the increased reporting of shoplifting. While the number of shoplifting offences being reported to police has dropped to the lowest...

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The Leader
29 May 2024
Council News
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Council News

Light Regional Council wrap up, January 28

DeputationsTesseract Energy Pty Ltd and Tesseractess Pty Ltd were due to give a deputation, but it was withdrawn by the deputation representative for this meeting. The Light Regional Council Governance Advisory Panel (GAP) Chariperson, Mr Ted Byrt...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Council News

GSM roundabout on track

Nearing the final stages of the project, construction of the roundabout at the intersection of Greenock Road with Samuel and Moppa Roads, Nuriootpa is on track for completion by the end of the year, Light Regional Council has reported. While the...

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Mel Jaunay
13 Nov 2024
Council News

Pride flag to fly in Mid Murray

Mid Murray Council is using its flagpoles at key reserves as a platform to celebrate and recognise diverse causes and occasions that matter to the community. As part of this commitment, Council welcomes community suggestions for events and dates...

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The Leader
06 Nov 2024
Council News

New Deputy Mayor for Light

Light Regional Council has announced the appointment of Councillor Michael Phillips-Ryder as the new Deputy Mayor. Councillor Phillips-Ryder will work closely with Mayor Bill O’Brien and the Elected Members to support key initiatives and continue...

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The Leader
30 Oct 2024
Letters to the Editor
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Letters to the Editor

Keep watch on your backyard pool

Dear Sir, Royal Life Saving Society – Australia is asking all owners of backyard pools to check their pool fences and pool gates as a matter of urgency. Children under five are curious and fearless, and their love of water puts them at risk of...

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The Leader
01 Sep 2022
Letters to the Editor

Active citizenship

Dear Sir, We are custodians of a unique piece of Planet Earth. The current Barossa Council forged in 1996 from vibrant communities has a population of some 26,000 global citizens (2016 census) and a footprint of some 912 square kilometres. The...

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The Leader
01 Sep 2022
Letters to the Editor

Unwavering

Dear Sir, Thank you so much for the article you printed in the recent edition of The Leader regarding the BBB Poppy Project. Your unwavering support is so greatly appreciated. Kym MILNE, Gawler

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The Leader
01 Sep 2022
Letters to the Editor

Celebrating with pride

Dear Sir, Saturday, September 3 is Australian National Flag Day. A day to celebrate with pride the anniversary of the Australian National Flag and all that it represents. Proclaimed in 1996 as a national day, it celebrates the first time the flag...

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The Leader
01 Sep 2022
Property of the Week
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Property

Former Kapunda church for sale

Seven months after the last church service for parishioners was held, the historic former Uniting Church of Kapunda, along with its hall and manse, has come up for sale. According to the online market listing information from eXp Realty, the Church...

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The Leader
12 hours ago
Free to Read
Property

When quality and style count

Step into a world of sophistication and modern comfort with this fully renovated, feature-packed home that delivers on every level. Perfectly tailored for discerning buyers, this property offers an exceptional blend of style, practicality, and...

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The Leader
18 hours ago
Free to Read
Property

Elegant Barossa living

Welcome to a property where timeless elegance meets modern comfort, nestled in the picturesque township of Angaston. Beyond the striking black wrought-iron gates lies a serene retreat set amongst enchanting gardens - a home that promises an...

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The Leader
29 Jan 2025
House & Garden
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House & Garden

October in the garden

What a fabulous start to spring we have had! September saw some stunning weather days - perfect for getting out in the garden. Let’s hope October brings more of the same before it warms up into what is forecast to be a hot summer. October is...

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The Leader
04 Oct 2023
House & Garden

November in the Garden

By Kristee SemmlerNovember is the perfect time to be outside in the garden enjoying some beautiful weather. This time of year can get quite hectic with the lead up to Christmas and can often feel like time is flying by. Getting out in the garden...

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The Leader
06 Nov 2024
House & Garden

July in the Garden...

It’s safe to say, winter has definitely hit. Last month saw some freezing cold days and a number of frosty mornings, so cold and icy that my birdbath completely froze over! June also finally saw some much-needed rain – a welcome relief for...

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The Leader
03 Jul 2024
House & Garden

Winter Home Ideas: Tips for a sustainable garden

In December 2023, horticulturist Michael Homan and husband Paul Amos starred in an episode of Channel Nine’s, The Garden Hustle makeover show, having renovated a section of their sizeable garden with a central fire pit zone. Michael, who works at...

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The Leader
05 Jun 2024
House & Garden

Winter Home Ideas: Restoration and renewal at Rawolle Homestead

Debbie and Anthony (Ants) Hibbert say they can finally start watching Grand Designs again, now that their own grand design is complete and their favourite TV show again feels like escapism. One thing is for certain - if Kevin McLeod ever decided to...

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Clem Stanley
05 Jun 2024
Special Promotions
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Special Promotion

70 years of mateship

If walls and trucks could talk at the Greenock CFS station, 70 years of stories would be enough to fill many pages. But at the crux of it all is an ethos of service and mateship, where volunteers support one another through thick and thin. “Storms...

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Mel Jaunay
20 Nov 2024
Special Promotion

The Leader and the Co-op ‘Light the Night’ in the Barossa

The Leader has partnered with the Barossa Co-op for the ‘Barossa Light the Night Christmas Lights Competition’.The competition aims to celebrate the best Christmas lights around the Barossa and Light, while the map ensures they are easy to...

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The Leader
06 Nov 2024
Special Promotion

Legacy continues to bear fruit at Gully Gardens

Just over a month ago, new owners with familiar faces took on the much-loved Gully Gardens property at Angaston. Here, Jennifer Minns touches on the past, the present and exciting plans for the future. For the unenlightened, Gully Gardens Barossa is...

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Jennifer Minns
04 Nov 2024
The Barossa Mag
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Free to Read
The Barossa Mag

Pathways to empowerment

Barbara Lightburn is more than an advocate; she is a catalyst for change, empowering people who live with disability through her organisation, My Ability Pathway (MAP).

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The Leader
11 Dec 2024
Free to Read
The Barossa Mag

Heritage and Hard Work

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The Leader
11 Dec 2024
Free to Read
The Barossa Mag

The Musical Man

Despite the many personas he wears on stage, rising star Reo Gerhardy is a young man of singular character. In an industry that lauds fame and fortune, the 17-year-old aspires to leave a legacy as a mentor and male role model in musical theatre.

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The Leader
11 Dec 2024
Free to Read
The Barossa Mag

It all just rolled into place

Kate Argent-Bowden has been attending weekly lawn bowls for as long as she can remember.

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The Leader
11 Dec 2024
Free to Read
The Barossa Mag

The next re-generation

It’s early morning as Georgie Keynes makes her way along a familiar track towards the hills’ country of Keyneton Station. Spiderwebs, wet with dew, flank the path in beaded luminescence as golden sun breaks over this special, gum-studded land that has been in Georgie’s family for six generations.

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The Leader
11 Dec 2024
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