That's a Wrap on 2025: A Message from the CEO
As the year draws to a close, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on our achievements but also on the resilience shown across our district. 2025 was marked by ongoing drought pressures, despite the challenges, our community continued to show strength. Many of our initiatives and events this year were designed to support connection to bring people together and offer something new.
We delivered eight community events. From sound baths and the Blokes Break Dinner, to the Rural Women’s Luncheon, Paint & Sip, RUOK Community Breakfast, Mantra & Mandala and our SALA Festival night. Across these events we had a combined attendance of up to 350 people.
Alongside this, Council continued to deliver essential services and projects across the district...
Our field team re-sheeted 30km of roads across the district, and 86km of roadside tree trimming was competed.
In tourism, the Karoonda Tourist Park welcomed 1,089 bookings and recorded 2,859 nights stayed, a great boost for local businesses and the visitor economy.
Across the district, 18 development approvals were issued, representing $1.23 million in new development value.
Local residents made 224 visits to the Karoonda Waste Depot, supporting responsible waste disposal.
We also established two new committees:
- Karoonda Swimming Pool Complex Strategic Review Committee
- Youth Advisory Committee
In the Karoonda main street we installed a temporary skate ramp (which was well received by the community) and celebrated the official opening of the Karoonda Rock Swap Tree, adding more fun and creativity to our public spaces.
Our partnership with the Karoonda Area School continued, working together to support the Civics & Citizenship curriculum through CEO presentations and mock council meetings, giving students hands-on insight into local government.
A memorable highlight from February was welcoming the Governor of South Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, to Karoonda. Her visit included a tour of the township, time spent with staff and Elected Members, a visit to Karoonda Area School and a private dinner held in a train carriage at Pioneer Park.
A standout moment, only this month, was the return of the Karoonda Christmas Parade, in partnership with the Mallee Business Association. With approximately 200 spectators and 25 floats. It was great to see such festive spirit and community support!
Thank you to everyone who continues to play a part in making our community strong, connected and proactive and I look forward to continuing to work with you as we head towards 2026!
Scott Reardon
Chief Executive Officer
District Council of Karoonda