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There’s been some buzz around the City of Burnside recently, with our environment teams planting a variety of local native peas to help encourage the return of one of our most fragile insect species.

The Golden Pea Bee (Trichocolletes venustus), is native to the Adelaide Hills area and is an iconic species defined by its stunning golden bands on females and fuzzy red hair on males. Particularly vulnerable due to their dependence on just a select few species of native pea including the Narrow-leaf Bitter Pea (Daviesia leptophylla) and Golden Pea (Daviesia arborea), Council has been focusing on reestablishing these pea species in the Burnside area with the hope their return to prominence will help the Golden Pea Bee flourish.

Golden Pea Bee

Narrow-leaf bitter pea

How can I help?

By planting a native pea species in your home garden, you can help support the regeneration of the Golden Pea Bee. Both the Golden Pea and Narrow-leaf Bitter Pea can be planted on lower and mid-slopes of direr hillsides. They are also a hardy plant, tolerant of both drought and frost.

On Saturday 17 May, the City of Burnside will be hosting our annual Environment and Sustainability Expo. With stalls featuring our incredible environment and conservation staff, come along on the day to learn more about the Golden Pea Bee and how you can make changes in your garden to help our native fauna.

In September 2024, Council began a trial involving the weekly collection of organics bins. The trial allows residents to easily dispose of food and garden waste by placing it out for kerbside collection each week. As part of the trial, recycling and landfill bins are collected fortnightly. Around 1,400 properties in Beulah Park and Kensington Park are participating.

The trial has been a resounding success. Residents have embraced the opportunity to use their organics bins for food and garden waste. Putting organic material in the organics bin, including all food waste, reduces landfill waste and saves money. Financial savings occur because it is five times cheaper to send organic material to be composted, rather than to landfill.

The trial is saving Council over $800 per week on landfill disposal. While there are costs involved in changing systems, the savings can pay back the costs. Thus, weekly organics has the potential to generate long-term savings for the community.

How much does weekly organics reduce landfill?

A lot! One common metric used to assess community management of waste is ‘diversion’ from landfill. Materials that are recycled or composted are considered as ‘diverted’ from landfill. Typically, the diversion rate in Burnside is around 61 per cent. Since the trial’s introduction, the trial area has increased its diversion rate to an impressive 75 per cent. This is one of the highest diversion rates in South Australia.

Council is deeply grateful to the community for embracing the weekly green organics collection and committing to separating food and organic waste. The support from the community has been essential to the success of this trial.

Based on the success of this project, Council has decided to extend the trial until at least 30 June, to help evaluate long-term savings and operational improvements for the community. Planning beyond 30 June will occur as part of Council’s annual budgeting processes.

What do our residents think about weekly organics?

Beulah Park resident Rick said so far, the trial had been an incredible success across the trial zone.

‘We have been putting out a full green bin every week, we are delighted so far. We get great joy from throwing a big bag of food waste into the green bin,’ Rick said.

‘Looking around the neighbourhood everyone has gotten behind the trial, I have not spoken with a single person against it.’

‘I would encourage the City of Burnside to trial elsewhere and keep us as a permanent weekly organics area.’

‘People will see they can do the right thing and the city profits financially.’

Beulah Park residents Rick and Deb

Want to know more? Visit: burnside.sa.gov.au/weeklyorganics

In this episode of Burnside Highlights we bring you all the latest from the most recent Ordinary Council meeting, including Council’s endorsement of the Bicycle Network Plan and more.

The first three houses of the suburb we recognise today as Leabrook were located along Second Creek, which flows almost diagonally through the suburb. The creek was the dividing line between what was known as Upper Kensington (northern area) and Knightsbridge (southern area).

The Knightsbridge area was once a dairy farm known as ‘Thornington’, operated by John Hunt and family from the 1840s. The Hunts’ small cottage was by Second Creek, where it crosses the Statenborough Street of today.

‘The Wattles’ was an early house built in Upper Kensington by Charles Perry and was in the north-west quarter of the site. Later in the 1850s the accountant to the South Australian Company, Alfred Watts, purchased the house and renamed it ‘Leabrook’ – from which the suburb later gained its name.

In 1881 Thomas Cooper established a brewery on Statenborough Street in Upper Kensington. He put down two wells for good quality brewing water. The Coopers brewery was the first in the colony to make bottled beer. It operated in Leabrook until 2001.

The Kaurna people, the Traditional Owners of the Adelaide Plains, were the first to live in this area and have cared for this land for thousands of years.

Photo: Coopers Bottling Hall in the 1930s. Burnside Local History Collection

A central portion of Kensington Gardens was once known as Pile's Paddock, taking its name from James Pile, who immigrated to South Australia in 1849 from Yorkshire. The Kaurna people, the Traditional Owners of the Adelaide Plains, were the first to live in this area and have cared for this land for thousands of years.

For decades Pile’s Paddock was a favoured spot for picnics, and was the location for the East End Market Gardeners’ annual picnic from 1881 to 1909 – a large and well-publicised event.

In 1906, the Bank of New South Wales purchased some of the land, which was subdivided by Kensington Gardens Ltd from 1910. The area was renamed Kensington Gardens, after Kensington Gardens in London.

Arguably inspired by the area’s history as a popular picnic and recreation area, part of the land was reserved as a public recreation ground in perpetuity, following a suggestion by Mr. H.J. Holden, Chairman of Kensington Gardens Ltd and a member of the Tramways Trust. This reserve was created on the condition that the tramline be extended to the site. This reserve became Kensington Gardens Reserve (Kensington Wama). As part of the development, an electric tramline was extended from the original terminus at The Parade/Gurrs Road intersection to Kensington Gardens Reserve. The tram line reached the reserve in July 1911, connecting it to the city. The reserve was acquired by the Council in 1932.

Photo: A tram travelling along The Parade at Kensington Gardens, circa 1911. Burnside Local History Collection. Thank you to Tom Wilson for assisting us with an accurate date for the photograph.

In this episode of Burnside Highlights we catch up with our new CEO Julia Grant, who commenced her role at the City of Burnside on 28 January. Find out more about Julia and what she loves about our city, having been a Burnside resident for many years.

In November 2024, St David’s Anglican Church was confirmed as a State Heritage Place.

Opened in 1963, the church is an outstanding example of the late 20^th century ecclesiastical Modern Movement architecture in South Australia. Its innovative design by architect Stewart Game is known for its soaring saddle-shaped roof.

Congratulations to St David’s Anglican Church on this well-deserved recognition!

Photo: St David's Anglican Church circa 1980, Burnside Local History Collection.

The first blocks of what would become the suburb of Hazelwood Park and its surrounding areas was first laid out in 1848, when it was known as the village of Knightsbridge. The Kaurna people, the Traditional Owners of the Adelaide Plains, were the first to live in this area and have cared for this land for thousands of years.

Knightsbridge encompassed parts of what are now the suburbs of Hazelwood Park, Leabrook, Erindale, and Burnside. Designed by Captain Hall of Port Adelaide, the village was divided into eight blocks, with Knightsbridge Road running through the centre. The first home in the area, Knightsbridge House, was built in 1854 by grocer George Taylor. Notably, part of the house was constructed half-underground to better cope with the harsh Australian summers.

In 1853, Francis and Caroline Clark purchased 45 acres and made their home at Hazelwood House, near what is now Olive Grove and Hawthorn Crescent. Originally built in 1847 for Thomas Burr, Deputy Surveyor General, and known as Grove Cottage, the house on this land was renamed by the Clarks in honour of Hazelwood School in Birmingham, England, founded by Caroline’s father, Thomas Wright Hill. In 1915, the Clarks sold their property to the State Government for a modest sum, with the stipulation that it would be preserved as a public park in perpetuity. After being gazetted as a "pleasure resort," Hazelwood Park was initially managed by the Tourist Bureau, before being transferred to the Burnside Council in 1964.

The suburb is named after the historic property, which remains a much-loved park frequented by hundreds of visitors daily.

Photograph: Hazelwood Park, 1920. Burnside Local History Collection.

Last night Council met for the first time since the start of the new year, welcoming Julia Grant as our new CEO. To kick off Burnside Highlights for 2025 we take a look at some exciting moments, including:

🏆 Our Australia Day celebrations, including our Citizen of the Year Award winners
🎨 Our ongoing exhibition at Pepper Street Arts Centre
🎭 Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King’s visit to the Regal Theatre.

We look forward to bringing you all the latest in future episodes throughout 2025!

On Sunday 26 January the City of Burnside was delighted to announce the 2025 Citizen of the Year Award recipients at the Regal Theatre, where 88 residents from 21 countries were conferred Australian citizenship by Mayor Anne Monceaux. Congratulations to all new citizens who have chosen to make Burnside their home.

Find out more about our inspirational Citizen of the Year Award winners below.

Citizens of the Year – Diana Croft and Susan Perks

Susan Perks

For over three decades, Sue has been a cornerstone of the Burnside Branch of Meals on Wheels, dedicating 32 years to delivering meals to those in need. Since 1992, her weekly visits have not only ensured that individuals unable to cook for themselves can remain independent at home but also provided them with invaluable social connections. Sue’s attentive care lets her quickly notice changes in her customers' well-being, ensuring that any concerns are promptly addressed to keep them safe.

In recognition of her unwavering service, Sue was honoured by Meals on Wheels at a special award luncheon in 2022. Her compassion and dedication exemplify the true essence of volunteerism.

Award accepted on behalf of Susan by fellow Meals on Wheels volunteer Gayle

Diana Croft

Di has been a steadfast volunteer with the Burnside Branch of Meals on Wheels for 31 years, beginning her service in 1993. Delivering meals every fortnight, she is vital in enabling individuals to maintain their independence while living at home. Her friendly visits bring both nourishment and a sense of connection, while her close relationships with her customers allow her to identify and report any well-being concerns promptly.

In 2023, Di’s remarkable contribution was celebrated at an award presentation hosted by Meals on Wheels. Her long-term commitment highlights her deep care for her community and the lives she touches.

Young Citizen of the Year – Rosa Hessabi

Rosa is a young leader whose dedication to service, advocacy, and creative pursuits has profoundly impacted her school and broader community. As founder of her school’s Service and Justice Committee, she has championed humanitarian rights and equity, earning accolades such as the Kaye M Michell Award for Outstanding Leadership and Service. Beyond school, Rosa is an advocate for Iranian human rights and was recognised for her contributions by being selected as a Global Finalist in RISE 2023, an organisation that recognises and supports projects led by young leaders globally. Rosa has also excelled in robotics, as part of the first all-girls team to represent Australia at VEX international competitions, achieving multiple world championships.

Rosa’s contributions extend to the arts, with her work exhibited at prominent venues such as the Art Gallery of South Australia. She has also excelled in public speaking, ethics, and academic competitions, including the Brain Bee Neuroscience National Finals and the Da Vinci Decathlon. A recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and currently pursuing Silver, Rosa exemplifies active citizenship, leadership, and a passion for fostering positive change.

Highly Commended – Stuart Vass

Stuart is a passionate advocate for STEM and youth empowerment contributing locally and internationally through leadership roles in advisory boards, student leadership, and ambassador programs. He has represented Australia at events like the VEX Robotics World Championships and the National Youth Science Forum, fostering innovation and collaboration while championing youth voices in decision-making.

Recognised with accolades such as the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, Stuart has excelled in STEM competitions, community service, and educational outreach. His dedication to creating inclusive opportunities highlights his commitment to empowering the next generation.

Award for Active Citizenship – Michael Neal

Mike Neal is a dedicated community leader and president of the Burnside Lions Club, known for his impactful initiatives that enrich residents’ lives. Among his contributions is the Digital Imaging Project, which helps aged residents digitise their photos, aiding memory retention and providing easy access to cherished memories. Recognising this need after digitising his own photos, Mike saw an opportunity to prevent digital waste and support the community through shared resources.

His commitment extends to facilitating the Burnside Dementia Action Group, a council initiative supporting those impacted by dementia. Mike organises sessions and guest speakers, creating a vital social support network. His efforts exemplify a passion for meaningful, community-focused service.

Community Event of the Year – Rotary Club of Burnside Seniors Christmas Luncheon

The annual Seniors Christmas Luncheon at the Burnside Ballroom is a cherished event that brings together over 100 senior citizens for a festive celebration. With free transport and a complimentary lunch provided by the Rotary Club of Burnside, this long-standing tradition highlights the club's dedication to the community.

The luncheon provides an opportunity to connect and support those who might otherwise feel isolated during the holiday season, showcasing the true spirit of community and togetherness.