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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. 

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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 …

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Tai Chi resumes on Wednesday October 23rd after a 3 week break.Tai Chi is a quiet investment in oneself, in improving our feeling of health, our feeling of wellness, nurturing our connection to ourselves and the natural world. Grounding connects us lightly to the earth, gentle movements allow us to experience a softness as we cultivate a relaxed and gentle flow of movement.Mind, body and soul. Relax and regenerate.We only have one body, it’s best to look after it. Simple movements that can be taken into everyday routines. If you change nothing, nothing changes. If you think you’d like to give it …

Join us on the 4th Monday of the month from 2pm in the ACE Space at MOSHCC to share some movie watching time together. You can check what the next movie is at MOSHCC reception.Put this in your diary! 2pm Monday 28th OctoberThe cost of afternoon tea will be $2.50.Bookings at MOSHCC on 8537 0687.

What is VACSWIM (vacswimsa.com.au)Empowering children through water: VACSWIM, a flagship initiative supported by the South Australian Government and solely administered by Surf Life Saving SA, equips children aged 3 to 12 with essential skills to thrive in the water.Through engaging lessons during the December and January school holidays, VACSWIM fosters:Water safety awarenessConfidence in the aquatic environmentCompetency in swimming techniquesEssential personal survival skillsUnderstanding of basic aquatic emergency proceduresVACSWIM empowers young learners to enjoy the water responsibly and develop the knowledge and skills to navigate aquatic environments with confidence. As an extension of the VACSWIM program we offer programs for participants 13 to 15 years to take part in the extension programs, Water …

Church Of Christ, corner of Watson & Coxe Streets , Milang Enquiries—Peter Wilson 0407 607 638Sunday Service 9:30amFriendship & Craft at the Church Hall—Wednesday 10:00am—12:00 Noon Uniting Church, corner McDonald & Orana Streets, Milang Enquiries—Nola Deer 8536 4429Sunday Service 10.00am Anglican Church—St Marys, corner Luard & Maroo Streets , Milang Enquiries—Rev. Alex Stone 0405 084 794Sunday Service—8.15am (1st and 3rd Sundays of the month) Lutheran Church Cnr Commercial Road & North Parade, StrathalbynPastor Matthew Edgecomb 8536 3322 Catholic Church—Good Shepherd, East Terrace, Strathalbyn Father Richard Morris 8391 1053

Our Playgroups cater to families with children from birth to 5 years. Attendance is FREE. Milang Playgroup is run every Tuesdaymorning during the school term from 9-11am. Langhorne Creek Playgroup is run everyFriday morning during the school term from9-11am. Milang Campus:Head of Campus—Susannah Cook(08) 8537 0223 Langhorne Creek Campus:Head of Campus—Les Cameron(08) 8537 3145

Line Dancing at the Milang Institute Hall on Tuesdays from 1.00—2.30pm    $5.00 All welcome

Keep Active … Stay Strong Strength and Balance Tuesdays from 10—11am at The ACE SPACE at the MOSHCC A 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 Centre Phone: 8537 0687   Cost: Gold Coin Donation

This is an open invitation to anyone who may be interested in coming to our card afternoons every Tuesday at the Community Centre. Time is from 1pm to 4 pm with a cuppa and cake included at a cost of $2.50.  The games played are Crib, Canasta and Jonola, but could include Euchre and Rummy.   Those wishing to learn will be given free tuition.  Come along for a fun couple of hours.  For more information,phone MOSHCC on 85370687

THE GRIERSONS by Alvyn Hopgood Mr Magnus Grierson was quite a prominent man in the Milang district. His home was situated on a double block that ran from Watson Street through to Stirling Street. Dentists have always been feared, but not so much Mr Grierson was known as the local practitioner in this field. His main job was extracting teeth without anesthetic.On one occasion, my Aunty May, Mrs Harry Woodrow (nee Overall), was having a hard time with tooth-ache, so she went to Mr Grierson for help. I never heard whether she went alone or in company, but apparently, she …

The Milang Bowling Club celebrated the 2024-2025 Season Open Day on Saturday 31 August with a competitive friendly fours event and a sausage sizzle. In windy conditions, Club President Brian Patterson welcomed the large group of players and spectators and introduced new members and players: Arnold Bogusz, Paul Whitham-Richmond, Jenny Barton, Bev Mullins, Peter & Colleen Jacobs, Kym & Julie Whitcher. The President expressed confidence for success in the regional competition with the Club’s teams strengthened by the inclusion of new members most of whom are experienced bowlers. Current Ladies and Men’s Club Champions Lee Robinson and Glenn Best rolled …

September 2024 Another busy month on the weekends, despite some ‘pretty ordinary’ weather on some days making the Winter Warmer Platters a favourite. The Kitchen is operating well with a roster of ladies spreading the workload.During the month we had a couple of more donations of butter churns, one being a quite unusual type on its own stand, from John and Robyn Sutton of Finniss. Another little project we completed was the resurrection of Claude Sim’s little green trailer, it needed some new wheels to get it mobile and a light clean, really cute. We will use it to display …

by Alvyn Hopgood Gordon Coppins Gordon Coppins was general hand and assistant boiler operator to Jim Daniels. The boiler was used to power machinery and also for washing purposes and sterilising cans. Gordon was a big man who used to ride a bicycle to work with a motor bike seat fitted. Once at SAFU, Gordon fell into the milk trough near the weighing machine. A workmate had slipped an empty milk can in with the full ones, and, being much lighter, it caused Gordon to overbalance into the large open vat.When SAFU factory was closed in 1951, Gordon started a …

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTRE -corner of Weeroona Drive and Jupiter Street Milang.Ph:85370201 Email: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN:10 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY CULT DEVELOPING AT MEC Local recycling depot community service not-for-profit organisation the Milang Environment Centre (MEC) is trying to come to terms with a strange, cult-like development afflicting the volunteer team (aka ‘dinosaurs’). The focus of this unhealthy, odd obsession is the MEC crushing machine known as “The Depressor”. CULT AT MEC: MCN was reliably informed that the MEC volunteers may have developed an unhealthy fixation with the robust, green German-built 1991 IDEAL-WERK 6006 crushing machine. A volunteer who prefers …

Local residents will be familiar with the steam locomotive which is parked at the western end of the Railway Museum. It is a Fowler locomotive which was built in Leeds, UK, in 1927. It was delivered to the Racecourse sugar mill near Mackay in Queensland and worked there until 1963.The locomotive originally had a tender which carried the coal which was burnt in the locomotive firebox and the water which was pumped through to the boiler to create the steam. Unfortunately, that tender was scrapped in the 1980s. The locomotive was retired to a playground on the Mackay foreshore where …

Monthly Outing Report Hi Fellow Garden LoversSeptember 11th dawned fine with the promise of showers which are badly needed but not today thank you. Six members and a visitor from the UK set off, this was to be an easy day but with lots of climbing in and out of the bus. First stop was the Garden Depot at Mt Barker where there is always a good display of plants, containers etc. Margaret said she needed some large hanging baskets for her shade house, well here she got two nice ones almost too nice to put plants in.  I purchased a mature …

Eastern Fleurieu School Congratulations to all of the students at the Milang Campus for a wonderful night of drama, dance, music and art at the annual Spring Concert and Art Exhibition. Held in the Milang Institute the students performed ‘Snow White and her fabulous friends’ and ‘The Real story of the Big Bad wolf’ having learnt all their lines throughout the term and made their own props and costumes. This was followed by the Choir and then a variety of dances the students had choreographed themselves. Families were then invited to view the range of artworks produced by the students throughout …

Lakeside Hairtherapy Bespoke Delights

The third Tuesday in September saw the intrepid Stickies venture forth to explore the southern Fleurieu Peninsular, a local spot we haven’t been to for a while. With several not having been to this part of our state we headed out to the morning tea spot at the trail head for the Talisker mine near Silverton just south of Delamere. The mine discovered in 1862 by John McLeod employed Cornish miners to work the silver lead ore. The trail to the mine is about a two hour return walk and is steep in places so we decided to just have …

Lake Alexandrina Mavis Lang 1.Winter cataracts cloud the lake’s eye the arc of a great egret a blink in the mist.The lake holds its riddle close, elusive as old man congolli and shy banjo frog.Its rhythm sings in swaying reeds rattling their papery brown tips – the lake’s eyelashes flittering. 2.Take your history book to the old jetty way beyond today’s stumpy stroll,to paddle steamers and sweating bullocks; see Nugget the draught horseplodding beside an elegance of broderie anglaise long dresses, waist coasts, fob watches, felt hats.Then gaze back from these riffled scenes to a bark canoea spear-straight driver paddling …

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The Milang Bowling Club has been busy during winter with greenkeeper extraordinaire Greg Bowen overseeing repairs and maintenance to the facility while continuing upgrade work on both the club bowling Greens which have been closed all winter. The main A-Green was cored and top-soiled in June and is now looking very nice. Club members are enthusiastic about bowling on the upgraded surface when the green is reopened. The B-Green is also looking very good after a lot of tender loving care administered by the greenkeeper. MBC Greenkeeper Greg Bowen was a finalist for the Bowls SA Volunteer Green Keeper of …

The Butter Factory has been open each weekend come rain, hail or shine with some great events during August. The Fleurieu Food Festival with Manu was a great success. Sixty guests enjoyed a bush food dinner of many dishes on beautifully decorated tables. The wines were supplied by Kimbolton from Langhorne Creek with a selection to suit each dish served. We also had on stage Outback Overdrive to provide a big range of music for our listening pleasure. We were waited on hand and foot and everyone had a great night.Another event during the month was the Cellar Treasures weekend, …

THE RANKIN FAMILY by Alvyn Hopgood Not much has been written about the Rankin family of Milang. Charles Gavin (Guy) Rankin and his wife Eleanor lived on the west corner of Coxe and Watson Streets. Guy had a garden block on the north corner of Coxe and Stirling Streets, supplied by a windmill and tank. Guy and Eleanor had four children: Doris (who became Mrs Box), Claude, Ern and Gavin.Guy’s main employment was on farms in the district and he may have also helped on the river trade. They were a quiet couple and were very well respected. When I …

by Alvyn Hopgood Graham Eatts Graham Eatts worked for Arch Scott, who had the contract with SAFU to pick up milk from farmers in the district then deliver it to Milang Butter and Cheese Factory. This was in the 1940s. Graham also delivered coal to the factory from the railway trucks at the Milang Station to be used for the boiler. And Graham picked up and carted stumps – mallee – from around the area. These were used to fire the boiler. Graham’s father, Ron Eatts, built the large cement round tank in the north corner of the block in …

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTREcorner of Weeroona Drive & Jupiter Street MilangP O Box 338 Milang SA 5256 Ph:85370201E: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN: 10 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY ANCIENT MACHINERY AT MEC MCN items about MEC have focused on the people who operate our local recycle centre and rightly so because they are ALL volunteers. This issue September 2024 however features the aging machinery used by the valiant volunteer team that enables MEC to function. Just like most of the volunteers who are affectionately known as ‘dinosaurs,’ the machinery, plant, and equipment at MEC is old and tired. Nevertheless, despite the many …

AT THE REVOLUTION MOTOR MUSEUM The Revolution Motor Museum situated at Mypolonga holds a selection of very unusual motor vehicles, so we decided that this would be a great place to ‘Stickybeak’.The 10-seater bus for this trip filled up quickly for the 3rd Tuesday of August, but on the morning of departure we were advised that three ‘Stickybeakers’ couldn’t make it leaving only 7 to go and explore.Arriving at Murray Bridge we pulled into the Rocky Gully Wetlands parking area for our usual cuppa and biscuits. Booked for a 10.30am visit at the Aussie Apricots outlet owned and operated by Kathy and …

monthly outing report Hi fellow gardenersWould you believe it, I am actually handwriting this report as my computer has gone on strike, so back to pen and paper (subsequently typed up by the editor).Well back to the report, the 16th August dawned cool but fine with rain promised so we all left with jackets etc. which we did not use, in fact we all asked Peter to turn the air conditioner on as we became too warm.This trip was usually a marathon of five nurseries but we decided to split it into two trips with the addition of a new …

BOOK WEEK Mount Lofty Walk NURRAGI TRAIL

The Milang Men’s Shed is now opening for residents of Milang and surrounding districts to attend and try their hand at metalwork or woodwork. Plans are to open from 10am to 12 noon on Wednesday and maybe on Thursday after the Men’s Health Barbecue at 12 noon .It is operated as a club and all members are there to help and assist each other, or if you wish you can work by yourself.The main aim is to provide an equipped workshop where community members can socialise and work on projects for themselves or others. It will foster a sense of …

Over the autumn/winter season our wonderful volunteers have been serving a tasty lunch of soup and desserts each Friday for lunch. With two soup choices each week, there are not many varieties of soup that we haven’t been able to try plus some delicious desserts. Starting in September, the volunteers will continue to provide lunch. Soups will be replaced by a main course (including a vegetarian alternative) each week, plus dessert. The cost will be $12. It will be the same cost for everyone, payable on the day. There will be a cap on the number of people that are …

A Raffia Basket Making workshop on Saturday at MOSHCC and a Lino Print workshop at Lakeside Butter Factory on Sunday certainly got the creative juices flowing in Milang.  Our talented presenters Danielle from Creative Raffia and artist and print maker Mary Pulford, led the workshops making small baskets and lino prints.  You can see some of the fantastic results in the photos below.  Our participants were all inspired with newly learnt skills, baskets and prints to take home.

It is my pleasure to have recently joined the MADCA team based at MOSHCC as the Volunteer Coordinator. Passionate about Community, I enjoy assisting people holistically to empower themselves to achieve their true work life and volunteering goals. I’m not a Milang local, however MOSHCC is a place I’ve always felt I can call home. Having completed my Cert IV studies in Community Development, Community Services and Training & Assessment here back in 2012, I soon learned MOSHCC was a place filled with much warmth & support. Having grown up in Goolwa on the weekends and holidays, I’ve now been …

Southern Storms Amanda Solly When great round clouds siton the horizonlike swollen purple bruisesthat squash the ocean flat When the wind hidesand the air becomes thickand moist When the seagulls go inlandand call out from the plainsthe locals know its time Time to close the windowsand bring in the dogbecause southern stormsare comingto crash on the shorein dumping deluges. The Wardrobe Erica Dicker The wardrobe stands waiting for me.Huge, dark, foreboding, waiting. Why?As I turn the key and open the door,air-filled memories engulf me.Memories of Mom come flooding back. Capacious handbags that held her life.The overwhelming odour of Craven A …

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The busy cafeteria section of the Milang Historic Railway Museum is operated every Sunday by a volunteer team who undertake a range of tasks to ensure the customers enjoy good service and quality café food and beverages. A highly valued member of the railway cafeteria volunteer team, on duty every Sunday from 12 noon until 4 pm, is a quiet young lady named Jemmison.  Known affectionately to her volunteer colleagues as “Jem”, the young volunteer is being mentored and trained by the very experienced Norma Faulkner. Jem lives on a four-hectare property located between Strathalbyn and Milang. She shares the …

The secret is out and so are the “Wonderful Women of Wisdom” otherwise know as the WOW Group operating out of the MOSHCC in Milang. 

ROLAND COOPER   &   MAY NOLES by Alvyn Hopgood

· Lifeline: 13 11 14 · Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636 · Suicide call back: 1300 659 467 · Living beyond Suicide:  1300 761 193 · Men’s Health Line: 1300 789 978 · Parent Helpline: 1300 364 100 · Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 · Rural & Remote Mental Health 1300 515 951

Full steam ahead! Friends of PS Oscar W signs leases with Council Thursday 18 July 2024  In a milestone event for the heritage-listed PS Oscar W, Alexandrina Council has signed three leases with the Friends of the Oscar W to formally hand over the day-to-day operations of the historic paddle steamer. The Friends of the Oscar W is an incorporated body of multi-skilled volunteers who maintain, operate and crew this steam-powered, wood-fired paddle steamer that was originally built for river trade in 1908 and is now a Council owned asset. They have operated the paddle steamer and a portion of …

The Butter Factory is happy to welcome David and Sue Haeusler from Kanotree Wines, they will be operating their cellar door for tastings and sales on weekends from 11am till 4pm. Their official opening will be on the Cellar Treasures weekend of the 9th., 10th. 11th.of August. With the onset of the winter months it’s a little unpredictable as to how many visitors we will be seeing to the now open on weekends cafe, the Factory with the just opened Kanoetree Wines cellar door and of course Already Read Books. One of the challenges we face is providing a warm …

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTRE –corner of Weeroona Drive and Jupiter Street Milang. Ph: 85370201Email: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN: 10 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY MNC INTERVIEWS NEW MEC VOLUNTEERAnyone who uses the services provided by Milang Environmental Centre knows that the wonderful volunteer team at the local recycle depot has traditionally consisted of men i.e., male ‘dinosaurs.’ Not anymore! MEC recently welcomed new volunteer Sharon Parker a resident of Finnis, an energetic woman with a sense of adventure. Sharon admits sheepishly to being born in the UK but seeks credibility because she moved to Australia in 1988 and has enjoyed living in …

July 2024 In the 1960s there were just five trains a week to Milang. Each one consisted of a Brill railcar, for the passengers, pulling one or two vans for freight. That freight comprised of incoming supplies for the township and the properties around the lakes. On the return journey, fish, cereals, dairy products and other produce was carried for the Adelaide market. There was no refrigeration so, if it was a hot day and the train was delayed, then the produce was ruined and the local producers we’re very unhappy. The Brill railcar car was nicknamed Barwell Bull, Barwell …

To: Committees and MembersFrom: Stuart Jones, CEO Date: 26 June 2024Subject: 2024 Committee NominationsPlease pick up from MOSHCC a Committee Nomination Information and the Committee Member Nomination Form for the 2024Milang and District Community Association Inc (MADCA) Committee election.Nominations are called for positions of President, Secretary, Vice President and Treasurer (one year term) and 4 vacancies for committee members (two year term). Remaining on the committee for a further year s are Ash Stuart & Wayne Footer.Role descriptions for each position are attached. The nominations process is detailed in the attached information.Nominations: Please note:A retiring office bearer shall be eligible …

Outgoings and Incoming and other goings on this month have made time flyby.  After delivering 6 sets of Blankets to Foundation 1, Lyn received a call from the organisation in Mt Barker to thank Just Yarning for our generous and needy donations.  Lyn also delivered to The Uniting Church in Mt Barker 6 sets of blankets and again they were very appreciative. It’s really satisfying to us knowing that our time spent knitting, crocheting, chatting and having cake and coffee at Milang Mini Mart every week is appreciated. 

This month of July the Sticky Beaks bus left the Mosh at 09.00 in cold damp weather conditions.With10 Sticky Beaks aboard we headed off via Mt Barker and the Freeway, destination being Port Adelaide.A couple of Crows supporters on board (including me) were a little apprehensive  about traveling  into enemy territory.A couple of Port supporters  were excitingly  chatting away about how great their AFL team was going in this year’s competition.The chest beating soon stopped when I (the driver) pulled off the road into a safe parking area city side of the Heysen tunnels for our coffee  break and a stretch of …

Hi fellow gardener’s I’m back,  a little rest from Doctor’s appointments for us at the moment but others were not so lucky, one member sick, others with doctor’s appointments, but we had an almost full bus with a returned member and a visitor, hope Pam will join us again. This trip was a long one as we went to Virginia, always a favourite with many items from gifts to Lavenders and Kangaroo Plants to Orchids joining us on the bus. After a light lunch which varied from cheese cake and coffee to a shared bowl of wedges we left for …

Saturday  27th July saw a group of 12 led by talented local Robyn Shearer, start to learn the art of rag rug making. Ripped up sheets have been turned into the beginnings of rugs.There was lots of laughter, learning, making (and undoing) throughout the morning. There was a nice morning tea with an extra cake to celebrate a birthday in the group. If you are thinking about learning new arts, crafts and skills keep an eye out for the MOSHCC program to see what is coming up. Robyn has offered to do another Rag Rug workshop later in the year, perhaps you might …

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CLAUDE AND PHYLLIS SIM by Alvyn Hopgood Claude Sim was born in ‘Kyangi’, just over the Victorian border, in 1919. His wife Phyllis (nee Hall) was born in 1921 at Milang. Claude’s early years were often spent at Ashbourne, with his uncles, working in the apple orchards for the Meyers. Claude played a few cricket matches for Ashbourne prior to WWII, then he enlisted and served five years overseas.  Claude met Milang girl Phyllis Hall who served in the Australian Women’s Land Army at various locations around South Australia, mainly working on farms. Claude and Phyl married in the 1940s …

On Sunday June 30th, Milang CFS, welcomed the local community to their Station. Clayton CFS members joined in and brought their truck, as did SA Ambulance Service.  The sun shone, despite earlier rain and around 60 people attended the Open Day and enjoyed a sausage sizzle and specially iced CFS cupcakes. It was great to see families with young children attend, with youngsters enjoying sitting in the trucks and ambulance, and meeting and hugging Smokey the giant Koala.  Children gathered around the clubroom table to do some great colouring in, while adults mingled and shared stories.  The aim of the …

A Mother’s Thoughts Jackie Fairlie When the unrest is over…Who will blossom from the damage inflicted?Who will whisper the words that remove despair?Who will rebuild the same that was torn down?Who will again have the right to copythe revolving door we continue to accept?Who will deliver the simple love?Who will kneel down and hug the child in the dirt?How will we look up and see in a million starsthat the earth is our magical planet harbouring our souls?Who will grow small sustainable crops that feed without waste?We keep walking under the ladder of power.Isn’t that bad luck? Solitary Confinement Sarah …

The opening times for The Trading Hut is when our Flag is flying: –Wednesday and Saturday 9am until MiddayThese times may change depending on volunteer availability. Milang Red Cross will celebrate 110 years of service to the community. On August 7th we will hold a Community Event at the Trading Hut to celebrate this with a free Sausage Sizzle, all welcome. We have a large array of Men’s, Women’s and Children’s clothes, Bedlinen, Children’s Books and Assorted Toys, all are welcome to come and browse. Nothing is over $20.If anyone in need of clothing at any time, please Contact Bec …

The Milang Historic Railway cafeteria is operated by a wonderful team of volunteers who give their time, energy and personal resources so that the museum can offer visitors simple, quality café food and beverages. One of these unsung volunteer heroes is the quiet and very low-profile Harold Fellows. Harold is usually to be found in the kitchen section of the cafeteria railway car busily feeding plates, cups and utensils into the dishwasher machine.   It is a tough gig for Harold as the rest of the railway cafeteria volunteer team are all women with a tendency to talk non-stop while they …

MEDIA RELEASES Council listens to community – cuts capital projects and reduces rate rise 25 June 2024 Alexandrina Council has responded to community concerns regarding the proposed rate rise by reducing operating expenses by around $270,000 and cutting a proposed 8.3 per cent rate rise to 7.9 per cent as part of its endorsed Annual Business Plan and Budget for 2024/25. At a Special Budget Council Meeting last night, Council Members also removed or delayed more than $2.3 million worth of capital expenses and resolved not to proceed with the additional rate rise of 1.25 per cent to deliver the …

Packed to the rafters 120 patrons enjoyed the classic harmony of “THE SHERRAH’S and brilliant guitar picking by Anthony.  Jessie She our guest artist performed some classic songs and a few of her own songs.  A great afternoons entertainment. Our volunteers did a sterling job in the new venue thanks to June, Renee, Lorraine, Wayne, Lyn, Jean and Glenis, Neil and Sue and Gerry for filling in on the BBQ. Susan B who had other commitments still made time to bake her delicious cakes and others who baked cakes etc, Thank You. The show a fundraiser for the Butter Factory …

MILANG ENVIRONMENT CENTRE –corner of Weeroona Drive and Jupiter Street Milang. Ph: 85370201Email: milangenvironmentalcentre@gmail.comOPEN: 10 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY MEC SCRAP METAL RECYCLINGAn important service provided by the Milang Environmental Centre is the recycling of scrap metal. MEC does not charge a fee for residents to conveniently dispose of scrap metal objects. Consequently, an unsightly pile of scrap metal gradually accumulates at the MEC site directly opposite the main operations shed.On 8 April this year MEC arranged for the large scrap metal pile to be collected and disposed of by one of South Australia’s oldest and most …

Held on June 8th & 9th at the Milang Institute, The Earth, Wind and Fibre Fair was once again a great success! It was lovely to see so many people attending from far and wide. A big thank you to all the volunteers who made this event possible. And a very special thank you to Robyn Shearer for once again organizing the event. Thank you to the stall holders for showcasing their handmade creations which included lace making, basket weaving, needle felting, rug making, raffia work, wool spinning and embroidery. Thanks to Shirley Chaplain for organizing this year’s raffle. $1000 …

This month’s Sticky Beaks outing was an interesting one.After loading the bus with our coffee, tea and biscults and tasty cake slices kindly donated by Norman the 9 Sticky Beaks were ready for another adventure.We headed off this month to Mannum to explore the Paddle steamer called ‘PS MARION’. Upon arrival into Mannum we set up for a quick coffee and cake break before entering the Mannum Museum for a Sticky beak. Very interesting information and displays of Mannums past paddle steamers and written history and photos of their past floods. Next stop was ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the …

THE WHITE FAMILY by Alvyn Hopgood The White family were very respected in the Milang area. Ted White, a hard-working road contractor cracked stones to the approximate size of a cricket ball. He worked with heaps of much larger stones that were left in big piles along the sides of roads. They were then moved by hand to the middle of the roadway and rolled, crushed and levelled. Ted was also a wood cutter for the paddle steamers of the lake.The Whites were a large family. Ted and Mary’s sons were Bert, Vic, Harry, and Cecil, and their daughters, Vida, …

Alexandrina Council’s library depot in Milang is moving to the Milang Old School House Community Centre (MOSHCC) in the coming months. The relocation means residents can drop-off library items and pick-up on-hold resources during MOSHCC opening hours, Monday to Friday.Council’s library depot has been operating part-time out of a small room attached to the Milang Institute on Coxe Street for many decades. It is currently open 4.5 hours a week on Monday afternoons, 3pm to 5pm, and Friday mornings 9:30am to 12pm. The move has been prompted by recent concerns regarding the suitability of library facilities at the Institute. The …

Ode to my Toes Mavis Lang Like sleepy baby mice you restcosy in my nest of sock.Sometimes, you squirmand sweat under stress,other times you beg like dogsto be released on fresh green lawn.In your quest for freedom,you’ve thrust your horny spearsthrough sheets and shoes.But mostly, you are tame, patientand fall into line each morningto help me balance on life’s tightrope.You are never naughty, needy or loud,don’t clap or make rude signs like vulgar hands;you’re happy backstage. You ground meand I’ll always guard you from heels and hoovesfrom prickles, and thorns, and warts in locker rooms.And I’ll make sure to wiggle …

I want to introduce our newest team member to Milang & District Community Association, Shazz (Sharon) Weaver; she will work across all areas of the Community Centre as our Compliance Officer.Shazz has a wealth of experience in Compliance and the Aged Care Sector.Shazz, a qualified trainer, will also conduct training sessions for our Staff, Volunteers, and support workers, enhancing their skills and knowledge.Shazz has hit the ground running and has been a breath of fresh air into the centre, bright, bubbly. Oh, and you can’t miss her as her hair has a purple tinge this week next week it could …

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During April In May Just Yarning celebrated our 2ndanniversary. We especially enjoyed a visit fromPeg (home knitter) who travelled from Hahndorf,with her granddaughter Kate. Not only Peg andKate but our eldest Yarner, the loveable Paulinemade time to pop in and join in the celebration.Cold mornings and night times are upon us againso if you, or someone you know would benefitfrom a warm blanket or scarf, gloves etc ring Lynon 0407 370 079If you have any wool to donate, drop into us atMilang Mini Mart where we meet each Thursdaymorning, or it can be left at Milang CommunityCentre. JM

Morning tea, fund raising and lots of fun were the ingredients for Milang Old School Houses Biggest Morning tea Cancer Council SA fundraiser.The Lakeside Butter Factory was buzzing with folk adorned in pearls, shawls, a bit of fake fur and olde worldy hats. The ladies, and some lads, dined on scones, petite sandwiches and more whilst sipping on tea and coffee.Games were played, never too old they say, and dollars were raised. All for a good cause. All up, $353.60 has been sent to Cancer Council SA.Huge thanks to the small team of volunteer organisers, the wonderful folk who came …

Walking around his workshop Colin pointed out and explained to us what goes where and what fits what. When he needs to make a part he makes two of because the vehicles are so rare.He can buy a track for a Sturt tank from America or sell a headlight from a LP2 Carrier to Bosnia. The passion this one man has and the patience is outstanding and we wondered how he fits so much into each and every day. Plus, Colin in his spare time plays bass guitar in a band called AXIS.Offering his BBQ so as we could cook …

Snails Jules Leigh Koch Snails go outin the rainwhen we come inGreyer than winter raindropsthey crossthe asphaltDamp receding fleshmoves with the slightnessof continental driftTrails betray themA visible fault lineTheir houses are quake proofEyes on stalksThey have few otherspecial effectsSnails live inrun-downneighbourhoodsAmong broken brickscracked flower potsTheir house interiorsare all different The Cow Margaret Gardner Her body is filled with the knowledge of agedusty white coat, speckled in greydark eyes filled with motherhood lovewith a face showing Solomon’s wisdom of oldthe sweetness of Ruth and resignation of Job.How was your life? I asked Ms Cowand waited impatiently for her reply.My Life? she …

May 8th dawned cool and misty so those attending were dressed with lots of layers to be removed as the day warmed up which it did. There were only six, and two of those were walking wounded, not moving far from the bus at the stops but enjoying the change of scenery and good company. Because of the three members missing through either sickness or appointments this meant we had lots of room.We were unable to go to our first usual stop on this trip as Hills herbs has closed for business but there are always others. First stop Mitre …