Post Archive

Most residents will have noticed the turntable which is at the Clayton end of Daranda Terrace. The first turntable was installed when the railway opened in 1884. The railway track stopped at Milang and trains went no further. Most trains in those days were designed to run forwards and would normally run backwards for very short distances.Therefore, the locomotives pulling trains arriving at Milang had to be turned, and hence the turntable. Locomotives would back down from the station, the town school kids would push it round (it was very easy) and the locomotive would then back onto its train …

Friday Feast or MOSH NOSH as we call it. Upper Primary class enjoyed their lunch at the MOSHCC.  It is a lovely treat for the students to have a special lunch and our Year 6’s enjoy setting up and serving. PORT MILANG MUSEUM As part of History month Milang Students enjoyed a walk to the “Port Milang Museum”.They were met by Allan, Dianne and Paul, local volunteers of the Milang Historical Society who enjoyed showing us around the museum.All of our students really enjoyed looking at all of the items from vehicles, typewriters, old principals desk etc. and were very …

Cedric Varcoe facilitated the first of our Community Wellbeing Cultural Competency workshops, which were a great success.The participants were captivated and educated by Cedric’s interesting storytelling about his culture, upbringing, and how he overcame addiction with the arts to heal himself. The second workshop for Community Wellbeing Cultural Competency was facilitated by Derek Walker, who shared interesting tales of the Coorong, sharing information about the history of Aboriginal businesses, how PiPi Co. was founded, and how it has reached high success today by providing employment and sustainability.Mark Koolmatrie, founder of Kool Tours, facilitated the third Community Wellbeing Cultural Competency workshop, …

National Volunteer Week – Celebrating our fantastic Volunteers with a heartwarming breakfast  A heartfelt and delicious breakfast was celebrated during National Volunteer Week to show our appreciation to our Volunteers for all their contributions, which was held in the Milang Lakeside Butter factory.  The room was filled with over 30 volunteers, led by community spirit, in a relaxed atmosphere where the staff banded together to assist our talented cook in preparing and serving breakfast to thank everyone for their contributions, in helping to maintain the organisation’s flow.  The breakfast highlighted the importance of coming together as a community to support one another and …

This summer’s day Barbara Gonda As a gentle prelude to the day,a soft breeze touches my facecalming, stilling.The sun rises,galahs already play on the wiresand pelicans cruise the sky.It happens slowly.The texture of air thickens.The tone of the light palesas moisture is slowly drawn away.The scent of grass and dust is heady, heavyand animals hide themselves in quiet places.The heat becomes overbearing, intensifyingsinking into my skindraining resilience from mind, body;swallows pantcats stretch on tiled floorsand relentless whirling fans struggle to contend.At its worst,coolness is pulled from shadowsdrawing even the darkest into the heat.It bakes.Tender plants limp testamentsto this heartless ferocity.This …

What a fabulous ‘Biggest Morning Tea’ was held this year at the Milang Institute on Wednesday 28th May 2025.An amazing amount of $1126.65 was raised for the Cancer Council—fantastic!!!The morning included a delicious morning tea, a silent auction, raffle, guess the number of buttons in the jar, lucky dip, a photo competition, best hat parade, pass the parcel, coin toss and lots of laughs and giggles.Events like this don’t happen without a lot of hard work by our amazing team of volunteers. Well done team!!!

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The month started with the women from the Strathalbyn Classic Car Club having a tour of the Factory and a very nice luncheon prepared by Karyn. Great to catch up with several well known locals, they had a great visit and some left in very desirable classic cars.  During the last few working bees we have been fitting and connecting our Honda fire fighting pump to the tanks and then onto the fire reel attached to the side of the building in preparation of a worst case scenario. The CFS Brigades from Milang and Clayton Bay had a training exercise …

On Tuesday the15th April we left around 9.15am with only 7 Sticky Beaks on board. This time we headed to the CITIES METROPOLITAN FIRE STATION for our monthly Sticky beak.   Having been booked in by our highly efficient secretary GAE at the MOSHCC for our arranged tour we proceeded hoping to be there at the station by 10.30am thus having to forgo our usual stop for a cuppa and biscuit. Allow for the traffic going to the city then finding a park we made it to the main entrance to the fire station at 10.25am.We were met at the highly …

When I am on duty at the Railway Museum, showing visitors around our exhibits, it often saddens me to see that modern kids have lost some of the skills which were second nature to the older generations. The one that I notice most is adding up in your head ….. modern kids just can’t do it and need to reach for their phone. There are two examples at the museum.First is the weighing machine in the station building. I invite kids to stand on the weighing machine and then add weights and move the slider until a perfect balance is …

Trialling the month about rotation and NEW day – Wednesday, WOW was well attended.Travelling to Goolwa Railway Station to board the Steam Ranger – Cockle Train our ladies, rattled and rolled the historic line, taking in the sea air and views to die for. Passing through the seaside towns of Middleton, Port Elliot and destination Victor Harbor, the day, simply stunning and turning it on with the weather, in readiness for Easter and catering for the school holiday period. Needless to say, Victor Harbor, was a buzz with holiday makers, families, and the like. Waiting at the Victor Harbor Station, …

A friend of Ros, Marian from W.A.is now a home knitter (in W.A) and will be helping the Yarners to knit or crochet orange (any shade) flowers for a project that Vickie the MOSHCC Volunteer Co-Ordinator has given the group.The aim of the project is to decorate a banner for the next Harmony Day in March 2026 with orange knitted or crocheted flowers. They will be similar to the purple flowers Just Yarning made 2 years ago as a wreath for the animals sacrificed during the world wars. The group will still be making blankets etc as well as the …

There was standing room only and one way traffic at ARB over Easter Market weekend. We had queues waiting to get to the books and queues waiting to get to the Butter Factory. All very orderly of course.  Our last weekend in March brought us $123.55 which means $557.45 for the month.It was a very quiet weekend on 5/ 6 April, but generous visitors were happy to feed the donation tins with $161.85 for the weekend.However, over the Easter Fair weekend we collected $459.75 for the weekend. This was just $20 short of last year’s takings at this time (where …

“What a great day the Small Campus Sports Day was! Students from Milang, Ashbourne and Langhorne Creek enjoyed themselves as they participated in a variety of events. Congratulations to Angas who won the Sports Day Shield and Finniss who won the Spirit Cup.”

I stand in front of my well seasoned easel.  It bears the marks of many misplaced strokes, colour upon colour creating, in itself, its own texture.  It holds a blank canvas which peers at me, mocking me, taunting me.  I am horrified at the number of brushes I can choose from, which one is right, which will give the best effect?  The brushes join the assault of the canvas.  They gang together.My teacher says painting is just mark making but her marks are very different to mine.  Her marks sing to each other, mine yell and fight.  Her marks are …

The beautiful electorate of Mayo has been my home for more than 30 years. I live in the Adelaide Hills, along with my family and our dog Lulu. I am the mother of three grown up children.   I have been the independent voice for Mayo since first being elected in 2016. It has been an honour to represent my community, and I hope to continue as your elected Federal Member.   During my time in Mayo I have been able to secure more than $500 million in funding for various projects, such a health facilities, infrastructure and community priorities. Many Milang residents will …

The Milang Easter Market was held on Saturday 19th April and it was very unfortunate that the weather was not kinder to us considering we had such beautiful weather leading up to the day.  We had an amazing turnout considering the weather and there was so much to enjoy until the wind came in around midday.There were about 50+ stalls down by the Milang Railway site and then a further 13 up in the Butter Factory and the variety of stalls included delicious food, arts and crafts, plants, clothing, bric-a-brac, candles, photography, liquor and much more.The Easter Bunny was walking …

Child of Stonehenge Denise Sukovski Sacred site on the Salisbury Plain.I explored the wildernessof your Sarsen bluestoneembracing, feeding my freedom,before you were fenced. I clambered over your Neolithic structureyou were my playground.I pondered…were you a sign from ancient aliensor the lasting stain of another civilization? Sun worshippers,your spirit is etched into my memory.We share infinity.Stones erect archaic warriorswith gnarled, timber-rough skin.Tempestuous skies whispering messagesDruids gathering raw naturea Shaman maestroa hospital for the poor. Wooded clover surroundssky-blue forget-me-not.I will never forget you.A humming bird stirsand again, I feel your scratchy griton my wet cheekyour cold airy energycushioning my palms. The moon …

Friday 25th April 2025 @ 10.30amThere was a very good turnout at the ANZAC Day service this year. The weather was very kind to us and it was great to see so many people not only from Milang but also Strathalbyn, Clayton Bay and surrounding areas.The event was led by MADCA President, Karyn Bradford, the Strathalbyn and District Concert Band played beautifully for us and David and Susan Haeusler provided readings during the service.The service was followed a yummy morning tea and sausage sizzle.As usual, these events would not be possible without the assistance of the many volunteers who helped …

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POSITION SPECIFICATION Position Title: Driver – Centre vehicle Type of Appointment: Voluntary Time Commitment: As negotiated with Coordinator Position Objectives: • Provide safe transport for frail, aged and disabled consumers. • Encourage consumers to continue to participate in community life. • To facilitate participation in accordance with OH&S guidelines. Position Specification: • Pick up consumers as listed on running sheet at designated times. • Ensure all those traveling in the vehicle (including the driver) wear seat belts unless they have an authority from a Medical Practitioner stating otherwise. • Provide assistance to frailer consumers when transferring between houses, vehicle and …

MILANG FOOTBALL CLUBWe’re on the lookout for new, returning, and past players of all ages and skill levels!Whether you’re experienced or just starting out, we welcome all abilities and fitness levels.Come along for a kick and a run we’d love to have you on the team!Trainings:Wednesday nights6:00 P.M. to 7:30P.M.Milang Football ClubMFC plays in the Hills Football League C Grade competition.More info at:milangpanthersfc.weebly.com

Keep Active … Stay StrongStrength and BalanceTuesdays from 10—11am atThe ACE SPACE at the MOSHCCA weekly one-hour exercise class using gentle and controlled movements to improve strength, balance, flexibility and coordination in a fun and supportive environment. Small group, suitable for all abilities, (priority given to CHSP clients), EMAA (Easy Moves for Active Ageing) Trained Instructor.Good balance is needed to keep us moving about confidently and safely.Please speak to Sue at the Milang Community CentrePhone: 8537 0687 Cost: Gold Coin Donation

by Alvyn Hopgood

The garden has been abuzz with activity, preparing the beds for the new season’s crops. Lots of mucking in, digging over soil, spreading manure, sowing seeds, plating seedlings, covering beds and watering! The new babies are already popping up through soil! The hot weather and dryness have been a challenge, even with the now extensive irrigation system.We look forward to the Autumn/ Winter veggies like rhubarb, carrots, pumpkins, beetroot, kohl rabi and so much more! If you like hot spicy food, there are two large, and constantly productive Chilli bushes covered in ripening fruit. Our gardeners have over time experimented …

JOHN AND ETHEL FINDLATER by Alvyn Hopgood John James Findlater was born in 1864. His wife, Ethel (nee Pavy) was born in 1871. They had five children: Doss, Gwen, Alan, Edna and Lorna. It is understood that Edna and Lorna were born on a property on the north side of the Milang township. The remains of this three-room residence are still visible: the stone foundations are located on the now McInnes farm. There is also an underground tank, located over 50 metres from the ruins, so it is unclear how the tank was supplied with water. The first Findlater name …

Monthly Outing Report Hi fellow gardenersMarch 12th saw the Milang Cottage Garden Group set off on the first trip of the year, what started off as a cool day soon warmed up as five members and a visitor from Canberra left the Institute with an interesting box on board.First stop was the Jungle at Willunga where there was a bargain table which was of great interest as was a large flat bowl another bird bath for Margaret’s feathered friends. Then on two Broadly Green where a few more plants were added not really the weather for buying plants as it was …

Milang Bowling Club Women’s Pennant team competes in Division 2 of the Great Southern Bowling Association Fleurieu regional competition for women players. The MBC women’s pennant team needs 12 bowlers each Thursday and far too often cannot find enough ladies available. Nevertheless, the team enjoys surprising success against bigger, stronger clubs such as Victor Harbour, Encounter Bay, Aldinga and Goolwa. The Milang women’s pennant team finished 5th in Division 2 last season and 6th place this year. On 30 January 2025 Milang ladies enjoyed a convincing home win against the very strong and second-placed Aldinga team. Milang’s Bev Mullins finished …

March is certainly the month for music. We had four weekends with live music starting on the 2nd with local legend Kerry Forward on guitar and his friend on harmonica, they entertained us with the blues in Kerry’s unique style. A good crowd of 70 plus enjoyed music drinks and Karyn’s food.Keen to promote live music in the forms of ticketed concerts and a less formal free entry style of format. We have a couple of guitars hanging on the wall, Karyn’s idea, to accept donations towards the costs of these free shows. On the 16th Sam Hissey and Ellie, …

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTRE corner of Weeroona Drive & Jupiter Street MilangPO Box 338 Milang SA 5256 – Ph: 85370201 – E: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN: 10 AM – 3 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY ALUMINIUM CANS CONUNDRUM Your local recycling depot the Milang Environment Centre has over many years helped successful recycling of a huge number of aluminium cans. The aluminium can recycle process involves MEC accepting cans, paying the deposit refund for cans, crushing, tallying, storing and transporting aluminium cans separated into two different categories: soft drink cans and beer cans. The current SA drink container deposit refund scheme does not make this …

A Stickybeak suggested one day, Why don’t we visit the COOPERS BREWERY? So, with the help from Gae’s organizing skills she arranged and booked our tickets for a tour for 10.30am Tuesday 18th March.Leaving Milang at 09.00am we had 1 hour 30 minutes to get to the other side of the city to the corner of South Rd and Regency Rd.Forgoing our biscuits and coffee stop we arrived at the COOPERS BREWERY at 10.27 just in time for the start of the tour.Donning an orange visitor’s vest, an earphone voice commentary set, we set off for a tour in and around THE …

Please spread the word that the Milang Easter Market is on Saturday 19th April, 9am to 3pm. It looks like there will be around seventy stalls. The railway museum and butter factory will both be open for touring and refreshments.Free train rides will be available all day on the newly completed track extension with Neville Thomas driving the Simplex diesel. Kids will be able to drive model trains at the crane in the station goods yard.

The weighbridge in the Milang station goods yard was manufactured by Hawke & Company of Kapunda. It was purchased and installed in 1959 by the Milang Grain and Fodder Company which was owned by local farmers and residents. The weighbridge was registered for public use which meant that it had to be calibrated at least once a year using National Standard weights.Trucks would go to a farm to load with grain or fodder and would then proceed to the weighbridge where their gross weight was recorded. They would then proceed to unload at the large store in Luard Street or …

The MADCA Working Bee team began maintaining the MOSHCC ACE/CRECHE garden area by clearing the broken trees and debris. They were surprised to see the professionals arrive, which was perfect timing to assist our volunteers with the long-awaited maintenance.Large machinery arrived then there was chain sawing and mulching all going on around the MOSHCC. They continued by heading down to the Community Garden to maintain the much-needed overgrown gum trees.We are pleased all the mulch can be put back in the garden areas and the Creche kids will be happy to be able to play outside again.It took a lot …

These lovely colourful and patterned scarves just finished and waiting to be warm and cuddly to new owners. Although at the moment it’s warm days but cooler evenings and night times. They will be useful to somebody who needs one. As per usual if you or someone you know would benefit by one, you would have the choice of colour at the moment.Ring Lyn on 0407 370 079 These absolutely gorgeous squares were sent to us from Denise’s friend at her Strathalbyn Craft Group. Thank you, with hearts and an elephant.

The photo of this tractor attached to a 16 row spring Tyne combine has recently come into the possession of the Milang & District Historical Society.  The photo is dated 1925 but no other information of its locality was included.  The tractor is a Moline Universal Model D, 9/18 made by the Moline Plow Co., Moline, Illinois, U.S.A. These tractors were front wheel drive with articulated chassis and could be as illustrated in the photo, the front section coupled direct to the implement.  This model was tested from the 14 th July to the 17th July, 1920 in America at …

Life is Too Short Not to Swim When I returned to live full time in Clayton Bay in 2023, I was a bit out of touch with the local community, having spent the previous five years living remotely. I wasn’t sure what activities were happening, nor how to become part of the community again.My time away taught me a valuable lesson: if I wanted to reconnect, I had to be an active participant, not just a bystander. Simply observing doesn’t lead to mentally positive results.Having taken part in open water swimming in the UK, I had heard about a group …

CELEBRATE HISTORY MONTH WITH MUSIC AND POETRY AT MILANG BUTTER FACTORYSunday May 4th 1:30pm for 2pm start What better venue to soak in history than the Milang Butter Factory, which was established in 1893? Enjoy a relaxed afternoon listening to music, and poetry about the past, at this newly restored historic site on the shores of Lake Alexandrina.All poets are invited to come along and read something about the ‘old days’ as you vie for a $250 prize in this first ever poetry slam in Milang. Everyone is welcome to this free event. The bar will be open, tasty food …

After a receiving an honourable review by the Stickybeaks Men’s Group the WOW Ladies embarked on the historic journey to Sleeps Hill Tunnel exhibition hosted by David Munro, property owner and the Adelaide Fringe Festival. The Tunnels lived up to expectation. A trip down memory lane for some, a history lesson for others and an enchanting insight into one local artist’s depiction of the original use, passenger train and railway line. To the transition to outside enterprise, mushroom farming and now exhibition hall.All thanks to the vision of one Family, a true success, and a place for visitors to enjoy …

Last Friday Milang students joined together to celebrate Harmony Day. Our theme was ‘Together we can fly’. The students enjoyed creating a collaborative artwork and constructing and flying kites. Our Year 6’s will be helping out at Friday Feast throughout the year. All of the children have enjoyed being able to have meals back at the MOSHCC.Upper Primary students enjoyed their Chow Mein at Friday Feast.

Two Limericks Jilly Wherry The Chef Dianne Maidment Dad’s been spruiking about his meals,Bragging about Mum’s delightful squeals,His skills have now been exposed,A chef hiding in farmers clothes. So how did he do it, I just had to know,Late that night I peaked in the window,I must admit, I was quite impressed,Till I saw Dad engrossed in Master Chef, Pad in hand, TV set on slow mode,Watching intently last night’s episode,Matt was baking a cherry cheesecake,Lobster Thermidor, rib eye steak. Flipping open the Samsung, he rang the Local,As he read his menu he became quite vocal,No, he didn’t want roast of the day,Sorry, …

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by Alvyn Hopgood

February has gone, and here we are already heading into Autumn! The last couple of months have simply zoomed by with hyper activity at the Garden!The fruit trees have not failed us, thanks to Margo who cares our trees so very well. The orchard has produced buckets of peaches, plums, pears, figs and apples of various varieties! The onset of hot weather added to the urgency of getting all this fruit off the trees and dealt with before it spoilt. The birds have had a field day despite the nets which are now full of holes due to their honed …

What a busy start to the year, having only the one weekend off between Christmas and New Year, things have been pretty hectic over the holiday season.The working bee crew had a good break, but we are back at it now getting a few jobs done in readiness for the Easter Market and it is also our first birthday just before that.We have had a couple of cruisy Sunday afternoons with Sonic Fusion playing all of our favourite tunes, also on stage we had Gipsy and Slim aka Marguerite and Mick. The Brian Letton concert on the 8th of February …

Milang Bowling Club hosts a sold-out Australia Day event each year that has become famously popular in the region. Team bookings for 2026 have already been placed. Hot, breezeless conditions on Sunday 26 January did not deter the crowd of enthusiastic bowlers who comprised 26 teams in the 2025 event. Bowlers started the day with a delightful champagne breakfast prepared by MBC members before enjoying playing the two excellent bowling greens superbly prepared by MBC greenkeeper Greg Bowen. Milang Bowling Club is very grateful for the generous support of event sponsors:         LANCE KOTZ ELECTRICAL, WIZARD CHEMIST, ADELAIDE HILLS TOYOTA & …

Sunday 23rd of February was a big day for the Railway Museum with the opening of the full munitions railway route. The volunteers have been working on this for the past year and a half. From 2017, we’ve been able to offer visitors short out and back trip. Now they can have a six minute trip around the western end of Milang, together with the commentary telling them all about the train and the surroundings. The opening was started by Rebekha Sharkey MP and Alice Beale from the History Trust of South Australia; both have assisted us with grants over …

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTRE corner of Weeroona Drive & Jupiter Street MilangPO Box 338 Milang SA 5256 Ph: 85370201 E: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN: 10 AM – 3 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY The Milang Environment Centre aka MEC has received sad news that their long-term head volunteer affectionately known as the “Boss Dinosaur” is considering “retirement” from MEC. The startling news sent shockwaves through the volunteer team who see Don Boyce as an inspirational mentor and leader. The Adelaide Hills Stirling-born Don Boyce is a well-known and highly respected member of the Milang community who has served in various volunteer roles for almost 30 …

Jude Aquilina Monday February 3rd was a hot day. I was driving home to Milang, listening to the radio and they were talking about dry lightning starting fires. They urged listeners to watch out for fires and call 000 if they saw any. Little did I think I would see a fire start on Lake Road, Lake Plains. It began as a small patch in a stubbly paddock. The sheep ran to the other side, and I saw it quickly spreading. Ensuring the fire was heading away from the road, I stopped the car and called 000. I was asked …

Hi everyone, hope you and your gardens survived the heat spikes we have had recently. One of these resulted in the cancelation of the planning meeting to be held on the 12th February, instead it was held on the 19th, much cooler in fact a little chilly.Office bearers remain the same with June Bond as president and Anne Feast secretary, membership $7.50 per family. A full programme has been planned for the coming year with lots of old places to visit as well as some new ones.The first trip will be to the Willunga and Aldinga area finishing up at the Finniss …

Friday Feast Our Year 6’s this year will again be helping at the ‘Friday Feast’ every fortnight this term, and our students will be joining on some of those days for lunch.Vanessa, John Leo, Jack and Hudson are keen to learn and serve the community as part of their Year 6 Citizenship. This instils in them a desire to help and serve others and the helpers at MOSHCC are very happy to have their help again. School Captains Students from our Upper Primary Class had to write a speech detailing why they wanted to be school captain and present them …

Once again, we’re back on the road heading out to check out what appears to be a hidden secret to many.With a start of the new year February 18th came soon enough, unfortunately Norman couldn’t be with us on this trip but George, William, Trevor, Wayne, Ron, Kevin, Rob, Mel, John and myself Gerry climbed aboard the 10 seater bus and headed off to the SLEEPS HILLS TUNNELS of which there are two.Gae, from the MOSHCC worked her wonders organising this trip arranging for us to be met at a certain time at the tunnels. After stopping for the traditional cuppa and …

Here we are in March, and I don’t think I’m ready for it yet.!! Thinking about ARB at the end of January (maybe that’s why I’m not ready for March yet), the last weekend in January if you remember was a long weekend so ARB was open on Monday 27th as well. We had a steady run on Saturday and Sunday, with people of all ages popping in. Our total donations for the whole month were $614.40 Our two youngest visitors not only found a good read but also joined in the dancing and entertainment. Lewis found a comfy knee …

Bits and pieces of wool, come together to make a snuggly blanket.  How smart is that? Ros, has just crocheted together the 30 knitted squares needed to create this beautiful snuggly blanket, which will go to making someone warm and snuggly later this year. The Just Yarning group continues working their needles to have a supply of blankets, scarves, beanies and gloves ready to be distributed to anyone who needs them. Remember if you, or you know of someone who will benefit by a snuggly, give Lyn a call on 0407 370 079. The group meets at Milang General Store …

Painting is a process that combines creativity, technique, and patience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, following a structured approach can help you create compelling and well-balanced works of art. Here is a step-by-step guide to painting, from preparation to finishing touches.By Madeleine Elkin 1. Preparation: Setting the Stage for Creativity Before you begin painting, it is essential to prepare both your materials and your vision for the artwork. Start by selecting your subject and gathering reference images, whether from life, photos, or imagination. Next, choose your painting surface, which could be a canvas, wooden panel, or …

We have been lucky to have talented artists join us to run workshops in February. Participants were able to attend a Paint and Texture workshop with Gaynor Hartvigsen and a Cyanotype workshop with Mary Pulford. 

We were delighted to host Friday Feast on the 21st of February with an authentic Indian cuisine.  The feast held was an opportunity for the community to taste traditional Indian flavours of Chicken and Lentil Curries, both of which were a hit as well as the delicious banana custard chocolate slice for dessert. MADCA volunteers worked alongside our cook Dee in the Butter Factory kitchen, learning the secrets of making authentic Indian cuisine with Yesamma who showcased her cultural Indian skills and sharing her talents.  One of our newest volunteers, Joel and longtime volunteer, Karen enjoyed this learning experience while Lorraine worked her …

Sand Horse Bernadette Anderson Under the freedom of nighta herd of horses runalong a boundless line of shore.The thunderous droneof a thousand hoovesawakens the night as they run and runtill they can run no more.By the glow of a ghostly moonstallions and fillies and coltsrear up, spin and danceuntil the first whisper of dawn.By day, their prints are no morefor the only sign you’ll see,is the white tips of manes and tailsas they frolic below the frothy curls of sea. Court Jester Cockerel… Amanda Solly with tangerine wattle and comb glowing in citrus spiciness against roost of saddle-brown boards. Beady …

visited Milang early in February with some visiting theButtery Factory.They all enjoyed luncheon at the Pier Hotel.

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Newsletter February 2025 January is always a busy time at the garden with all the fruit coming in and other crops such as cucumbers, tomatoes, rhubarb, potatoes, onions, (the list goes on) ready for harvesting. The stone fruit varieties are well on the way to finishing, and we have grapes, apples, pears and quinces about to come in. This January has been particularly challenging as our gardeners are still working to bring the garden back under control after much overgrowth.  Christmas and school holidays also add to the mix where we all have family commitments! Maintaining the watering during the …

Back in 1940, at the start of the Second World War, the government decided to build a depot at Smithfield, north of Elizabeth, to store munitions manufactured at the Salisbury factory. They very quickly laid forty five kilometres of track serving the many munitions store buildings of which two can still be seen off the Northern Expressway. Wagons were manufactured at the Islington railway works and four battery locomotives were purchased from Liverpool in the UK. These trains then moved the munitions in and out of storage for the next fifty five years.  When the munitions depot closed in 1999, …

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTRE—corner of Weeroona Drive and Jupiter Street Milang.Ph:85370201 Email: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN: 10 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY Local recycling depot the Milang Environmental Centre is an independent, not-for-profit community service organisation that generously contributes to the community by providing donations and services to other organisations, projects and worthy causes.MEC NEEDS YOU! MEC NEEDS YOU! MEC NEEDS YOU!MEC needs to boost the current volunteer team. No special skills are required of MEC volunteers although anyone with experience in forklift and truck driving would be particularly welcomed to the team. According to long-term team leader Don Boyce, the most …

Jude Aquilina So far this summer, it has been relatively quiet in the way of callouts for Milang CFS, which is a good thing.  However, the brigade attended a few jobs, including a header fire at Belvidere, and a serious vehicle accident on Ameroo Avenue that brought down powerlines on the 14th of December. Our brigade also assisted in crewing a strike team that was involved with the Onkaparinga Hills fire in late December. On the 27th of December, Milang CFS responded to a small backyard bonfire in Milang which we had to extinguish. We remind and encourage residents to visit …

Sticky Beaks Men’s Trip—Tuesday 18th February Sleeps Hill Tunnel visit, lunch @ nearby shopping centre & a mystery tour drive through the hills on the way home.  $25 tunnel tour + $15 bus & lunch costs. Leaves MOSHCC 9am. Book in, don’t miss out, 85370687 The award-winning Sleeps Hill Tunnel an opportunity to explore a hidden part of Adelaide’s history. Be immersed in mesmerising projections and installations that share the tunnel’s history from its steam train era to mushroom farm years.Wander through this 377-metre long tunnel to discover a spectacle of lights and visuals across the tunnel walls that deliver …

A Cyanotype workshop followed in the afternoon by a Wet Felted Bowl workshop saw lots of very creative things happening in the Milang Lakeside Butter Factory on Saturday.Both workshops were led by Mary Pulford, a talented print maker and artist. Participants in the morning got to produce some stunning blueprints using a simple printing process. In the afternoon the bowls were made using wool, water and lots of energy to felt the wool. Both were lots of fun. Check out the results in the photos.

The Milang & District Community Association are proud to support the work of this valuable volunteer community group. 

The WOW Ladies kicked started 2025 with a return visit to the Pottery Place – Murray Bridge, followed by lunch at 1924 river frontage ending in a shopping stop to Serenity Nursery, all venues did not disappoint.The Pottery Place hosted by the amazing Susan Christian, welcomed the new group who were able to indulge in a hot cup of tea or coffee accompanied by a tasty biscuit or slice of cake.With introductions and morning tea over, the ladies then actively noodled with the clay. Eventually after a few go’s for some, they took charge, manipulating and transforming many balls of …

My True Friend Mavis Lang She comes without callingis loyal and never judgemental.Some days she walks aheadother times she follows,quiet and accepting; she goeswith me anywhere I choose. She knows my past,my travels, my loverswe share the same interests,bushwalking, tennis, cycling –she’s always there with me, egging me on.But she goes to bed earlier than meand tends to stay home in cold weather.Like the stars in daylight,even if she’s absent,I know she will return. Although she lacks initiativeand has no friends of her own,I love the way we wear the same hairdosthe same styles of fashion…Imitationis the sincerest form of …

It is with the greatest sadness and sympathy I report, that Carole Elizabeth Linscott loving wife of Mike Linscott passed away on the 3rd of January 2025 aged 84 and married for 66 years.Carole and Mike had four children Glenda, Stephen, Cathy and Peter (dec).Mikes parents emigrated from the UK to South Africa and Mike became a Police Officer in the South African police force. He met Carole when she was just 14 years of age and they became good friends. They courted until she turned 18 years of age and then married. Carole became involved in the theatre, music …

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The Milang Historic Railway Museum cafeteria is supposed to be open for inexpensive, quickly prepared, simple café food only on Sundays.  However, often the team of selfless volunteers accepts a booking from a special group on other days. For example, last October the BSA Owners Club of SA visited the Museum for a train ride, a museum tour and morning Devonshire Tea which included delicious jam and whipped cream filled scones. The cafeteria volunteers were extremely busy as the motorcyclists and their pillion passengers numbered ninety five individuals who fortunately did not all arrive at the same time! The large …

First stop was at Fleurieu Cherries and the Stickies enjoyed a look through the shop and tasted the Cherry wines and most of us enjoyed a cherry ice cream in a cone.  We had a morning tea under the gums at the Cherry Farm.  A few punnets of cherries came home to share with the families.  We then proceeded to Meadows, Echunga and eventually reached the luncheon spot at Bridgewater Inn.    Being a little early we awarded the Fearless Leader Putt Putt championship.  Bill Quinn receiving his trophy as the 2024 champion and David Rhodes was absent but won the hole in one competition …

A visit from a local, Rene who brought in before Christmas, a stack of colourful and beautifully knitted squares knitted by her dear Aunt Wilma who lives in Modbury, (a 2 hour drive away). We have had squares donated from north to south and east to west of the city. THANK YOU SO MUCH to Aunty Wilma for your time and effort. Another home knitter to add to our list.In the last couple of weeks, we have had several people interested in joining the group and we have more than enough wool and needles for them to pick up stiches …

(Did you know?)

A Christmas Party Event was held for our MADCA Volunteers in the Lakeside Butter Factory. It was a great way to celebrate, showcasing the newly renovated space, recognising and appreciating our hard-working volunteers with an opportunity for the staff to serve an amazing lunch prepared by our new Cook, Dee.  An array of wonderful entertainment, with thanks to JB for starting the event providing Christmas cheer, the Milang Primary School for singing carols, Father Christmas surprised us with a visit and local Fleurieu musician Dane Unwin filled the room with smiles.  Certificates were presented by Rebekah Sharkie and Councillor Margaret Gardner also …

It has been a busy few weeks for Friday Feast lunch times. We have welcomed back school students for lunches on a rotating basis with younger children one week and older children the next. We bid farewell to our Year 6 helpers, at the end of November they are venturing off to middle school next year. It has been an absolute pleasure to have 4 Year 6 students from Milang Campus come to Friday Feast each week to assist with any food preparation, table setting and serving of food. They have been helpful, fun to have around and it has …

Art has evolved over centuries, reflecting the cultural, political, and emotional landscapes of different eras. From the intricate brushstrokes of Renaissance masterpieces to the bold abstractions of modern times, art styles vary widely, offering artists unique ways to convey their vision. Understanding these styles can deepen our appreciation for the diversity of artistic expression and help artists discover their own creative voices. The Renaissance period, beginning in the 14th century, is known for its detailed realism and emphasis on proportion, balance, and perspective. Masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo strived for perfection in representing the human form and natural world, laying …

Two Limericks by Lindsay Jane Doley  There was a young lady of fiftywho loved to look polished and nifty.She went to the shopsbought lots and lots,then said, I really must learn to be thrifty. There was a young lady called ShaneWho flew first class on a plane.She made herself comfywith plenty of munchiesAnd endless supplies of champagne Rainbow Lorikeets by David Cookson on a twig sometimesfar from fussover blossomin plumage from a kid’s paint boxtwo may be feather to featherswapping chat and chirpin domesticity. Sunset at the Beach Jules Leigh Koch here at the edgeof our sightthe day is closing …

Team Milang was proud to be part of the Christmas Hampers donations group, with a grand total of 236 hampers going out to the local community (21 being from Milang & Districts). The two-day procession involved setting up of almost 6000 products to designated workstations and distribution to create hampers for various family numbers required. 

Click the link to read online or right click the image and click “save link as” or “open in new tab” to download the PDF

Click the link to read online or right click the image and click “save link as” or “open in new tab” to download the PDF.

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTRE -corner of Weeroona Drive and Jupiter Street Milang.Ph:85370201 Email: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN: 10 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY The Milang Environmental Centre (MEC) may only be open two days each week but there is always something going on that requires volunteers to sacrifice time and energy to complete tasks and projects. For example, the big, yellow Hino truck is sometimes seen parked along Amaroo Road fully loaded and ready for volunteer driver Terry Garbet to transport bulk crushed recyclable containers to “Super-Collector” depots north of Adelaide. Alistair McInnes was on the MEC site recently during a closed …

The 2024-2025 season was on display at the Milang Bowling Club on Saturday 05 October when members competed in the 100-UP which is the first of several planned club competition events. The 100-UP is a singles game in which players try to be the first to win 100 points. In Round 1 by coincidence the finalists in last season’s Club Open Singles Championship were drawn against one another and fought an epic game with Cale Butlin fighting back from 20 points down to win 103 – 97 against Club Champion Brian Addison. New club member Peter “Jake” Jacobs won against …

WALLY & EDITH WOODROW by Alvyn Hopgood Wally and Edith Woodrow had a home on Daranda Terrace, facing his beloved Lake Alexandrina.  Wally was a fisherman, with his brothers Jim, Jack, Harry and Dick, and later with his sons Norman and Victor. He always wore flannel shirts, as quite a few men did at this time. Wally was a very punctual man – on one occasion he left Ern Rankin home, as Ern was 30 seconds late!  ‘He will be early next year,’ Wally said, regarding a New Year boat trip across the lake.  While I was at Milang Primary …

October has been a month of firsts for the Butter Factory. Our first wedding and our first birthday party not to mention a very busy long weekend. On the long weekend we had live music on both Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Saturday we had the duo Sonic Fusion playing pop and rock tunes from the eighties and nineties, by the end of the afternoon they had a few up dancing which was good to see. On Sunday, Zara Chantelle, a young lady of seventeen played some original songs along with her unique arrangement of popular cover songs The first working …

by Alvyn Hopgood Sydney Overall The Overall name has had a strong association with the Milang area for many years. In October 1854, the South Australian Governor, Sir Henry Fox Young, had been petitioned by sixty-nine owners and holders of the land in the Hundred of Bremer and Alexandrina, to proclaim under the District Council Act, the district of Bremer. George and Jesse Overall were two of the petitioners. Sydney Overall was born in 1895 at Milang and lived there all his life. He never married. His parents, Sarah and Walter, had a grocery shop opposite the Milang Post Office. …

Jude Aquilina Fortunately, callouts for the Milang CFS Brigade have been fairly quiet over past weeks. However, CFS volunteers attended Watson Park Road, to cut up and remove a tree that was blocking the road.Then, on the 16th of October, Milang CFS responded to a serious road accident on the Milang Road where a car had rolled and trapped the sole occupant. CFS crews from Milang, Langhorne Creek and Strathalbyn, along with SAAS and SES, worked together to cut free the occupant. He was then airlifted by the MEDSTAR Rescue Helicopter from the scene.As summer approaches, Milang Brigade has been …

Any local resident or visitor to Milang who has enjoyed the Milang Historic Railway Museum cafeteria will know that the inexpensive, simple food and beverages served there are only possible thanks to the efforts of a wonderful team of volunteers. A leading light in that efficient and friendly team and perhaps the hardest working volunteer is the delightful Sheila Fellows who may be glimpsed with spatula in hand cooking on the hotplate.This selfless lady arrived in South Australia from the UK in 1970. Sheila met her partner and railway cafeteria volunteer colleague Harold while travelling in Tasmania. Together they lived …

We were at the Butter Factory because of a clash with an ACE Space booking.Our Friday Feast participants had a lovely Friday lunch of Roast Chicken, roast potatoes and salad followed by a scrumptious apple cake dessert served by our wonderful volunteers (including our Year 6 Milang Campus helpers) under the guidance of our new cook Dee.Dee, who lives locally, has been employed by MADCA and one of her roles is to plan for & cook Friday Feast lunches. The November menu is below.01/11  Silverside, mash & veg + dessert08/11 Savoury beef baked potatoes w coleslaw & cheese + dessert15/11 …

Stickybeaks visit Port Adelaide Aviation Museum October’s Stickybeaks saw 10 very keen guys journey to Port Adelaide to visit the Aviation Museum. First stop at the bottom of the Freeway for a cuppa and chat taking in the fantastic weather.The Aviation Museum has quite a few new attractions since my last visit a few years ago. We were hosted by a very experienced retired RAAF pilot and instructor who spent many years flying Caribous, a short field take off and landing transport aircraft. Our host was extremely knowledgeable on aspects of all the aircraft on display. He certainly impressed us …

Hi Fellow Garden Lovers The October trip on the 9th dawned fine and sunny and a puzzle as to what to wear as could be seen by the selection on the bus from summer blouses to winter jackets which were soon discarded. This trip was programmed to be to the Botanical Gardens in Adelaide but given the fact that at least four members have difficulty walking long distances it was decided to change the venue and we are glad we did. We went on a guided bus trip to the Mt Lofty Botanical Gardens where we saw masses of flowers from …

World Teachers Day

In a world dominated by routine and technology, creativity often becomes a distant dream for many. Yet, each of us carries a spark of originality waiting to ignite. The challenge lies in discovering our unique creative inclination—be it in art, writing, music, design, or a myriad of other expressions. But how do we uncover this hidden talent?  The journey to discovering your creative inclination is one that combines self-reflection, experimentation, and perseverance. Many people believe that creativity is limited to traditionally artistic endeavors like painting, music, or writing. However, creativity manifests in every field imaginable. A software engineer can craft an …

The WOW ladies had the chance to get down and dirty at the Pottery Place, Murray Bridge, this month!What a wonderful experience, guided by experienced potter Susan Christian.Definitely worth a visit if you wish to try for the first time, reinvigorate the inner potter in you, if a potter who has been dormant or a fresh new environment to create, if an active potter.Many laughs had, some silent concentrating moments, tongues out, can you picture that!And the thrill of mastering a spinning wheel, water, clay, with all ladies delivering some unique pieces of art.Notification received that works are now complete.Pick …

On Sunday the 13th October at the Milang Regatta/Yacht Club we cut our locks to raise awareness and much needed funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.  Kate Whiting, Ellen D’Arcy and Emma Smith were excited to see a turnout of over 70 people that all made donations to the wonderful cause. We not only raised awareness for the foundation, but also donated our hair to make wigs to go to Sustainable Salon in Sydney.  Angas Smith also jumped on board and shaved his head to raise more money as part of the World’s Great Shave.  We would like to extend a huge …

The talents of young writers from across the region were celebrated during the 2024 Mayors’ Short Story Challenge. An initiative of District Council of Yankalilla, City of Victor Harbor and Alexandrina Council, the Challenge is about encouraging school aged children from reception to year 10 to let their imaginations run wild and share stories through creative writing. The following story written by Buffy, recently won the Mayor’s Short Story Competition for the whole of the Alexandrina region. Buffy was inspired to write it by the time she spends down by the lake watching the pelicans. Buffy is homeschooled here in …

Fear Polly Harrison Fear is the shadowed figurein the corner of my room.He watches mecasting his gloomy eyes on me, day and night. Fear stomps on my voice boxcausing my voice to tremble.Fear is like a mosquito buzzing in the air,just a soon as you think you’ve killed it,it comes back, sometimes even louder than ever. Fear is a monster.It hides under my bedwaiting for me to close my eyes,for me to feel at peace.Then it jumps out, sending me backinto the same spiral. A COUNTRY LIFE Margy McLoughlin Sugar and flour hessian bags flap in the sunshielding us from …