South Australia

South​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Australian wine community is in mourning after the untimely death of a  winemaker Peter Fraser who lost his life in a fire at his home in Clarendon. Loved ones, neighbours and co-workers recall him as a very warm and caring person, who, with his gift and calm nature, was instrumental in the development of the wine industry in the region. The news of his passing has left people in deep shock and the tributes have been pouring in from the people who have been working with him for years. The commitment, loving nature and zeal of Fraser for the cause made a lot of people, not just in the region, but beyond his reach too, realise his worth.

Scientists identify rare algae species Karenia cristata as the cause of South Australia’s toxic bloom crisis. A pre-print paper reveals the new brevetoxin producer is the primary cause of the bloom that killed thousands of marine wildlife. According to Professor Shauna Murray, the scientific community knew very little about the species, only reported twice before in the world. The bloom was first detected in March and has now spread to cover 20,000 square kilometres, affecting 30 percent of the coastline. In a related development, the government announced a $102.5 m summer plan to support coastal communities with vouchers, grants, and funding for research. 

Prices for Australian white wine grapes are expected to collapse this vintage because of oversupply. Riverland growers may see prices drop to $80-$120 per tonne while production expenses are, above $350. Those who switched from red to varieties now confront yet another challenge. Amanda Dimas replaced shiraz with chardonnay. Describes the situation as a harsh blow. Riverland Wine sent a letter to Premier Malinauskas describing the circumstances as disastrous. The state government is reviewing the appeal. Has committed $15m to support initiatives. Diversification to other crops faces risks of creating new oversupply problems. 

Specialists created the Bloomin’ Algae site to monitor health consequences of the SA bloom after discovering insufficient health information despite worries about sore throats, respiratory problems and mental health effects. Medical anthropologist Dr Amy McLennan is involved in the research group. The website features a disaster impact analysis and a community platform to submit health issues affecting people and animals. SA Health noted reports in March concerning skin and eye irritation along with coughing and breathlessness, among surfers. Mental health is becoming a growing concern.

Shelter SA is the remaining employee following the cessation of government funding in October 2020. A report reveals that SA is the state lacking a government-funded homelessness peak agency. Over 18,700 individuals used homelessness services in 2023-24 with one in four securing shelter. Member organisations are withdrawing due to rising living costs. The government states it allocates, than $100 million each year to frontline services and is advancing an independent Homelessness System Review.