Mayor's Message - August 2026

Boundary review

At the July 2026 Council meeting, Council supported my Notice of Motion asking the CEO to prepare a report providing advice on how Council may progress consideration of a boundary review affecting City of Port Lincoln and surrounding communities, including any associated governance or structural options available under the Local Government Act 1999 that may improve long-term outcomes for southern Eyre Peninsula.

Some of you may have missed the resolution, and I thought it important to bring to your attention.

Port Lincoln does not exist in isolation.  We are part of a much broader southern Eyre Peninsula community.  We work together, shop together, use many of the same sporting, recreational, health and community facilities, share infrastructure and services, conduct business across council boundaries, and collectively advocate for investment in our region.  Whilst each council might be distinct in their identity, we are united in opportunity.

My motion was not a new conversation.  Questions about regional service delivery, boundaries and local government structure have arisen over many years.  Previous consideration has identified the importance of financial sustainability, effective representation, infrastructure and service delivery, communities of interest and the relationship between Port Lincoln as the regional centre and the communities surrounding it.

I, together with other Elected Members, have also heard from residents and ratepayers across the three council areas, who would like these matters explored.

Rather than continuing to revisit these questions periodically without a comprehensive evidence base, there is merit in understanding whether an independent and transparent assessment can examine the reasonable options and provide councils and their communities with reliable information.

Our neighbouring councils are important partners in this conversation, and we have extended invitations for them to be involved.  This is about looking beyond lines on a map and instead, asking how we can work together to build the strongest, most sustainable and prosperous southern Eyre Peninsula possible, and what options Council has to pursue this outcome.

Council looks forward to receiving information from the CEO in due course, and please be aware that this is just the beginning of a conversation, not a decision – and our ratepayers can be assured they will be kept informed, listened to and respected, every step of the way.

If you would like to learn more about the resolution, please refer to the Agenda for the July 2026 Council meeting, available on the website.

Port Lincoln Show

Did you get a chance to attend the Port Lincoln Show?  I thought it was just wonderful.  The entertainment was great, the Pavillion looked amazing, there were lots of delicious food options and the sideshows are always a popular family favourite.

Many thanks to the Committee, the sponsors, stall holders, competition entrants, media and the public for a wonderful day.  I had the privilege of judging the Novelty Dog Events, and judging competition entries like the ‘best trick’ and ‘dog I would take home’ seemed like one of the most difficult roles I have undertaken as Mayor!

I also take a moment to pass on my respects to the late Mr Brian Smith formerly of Cleve, who for many years called the announcements and results on Show Day, not just for Port Lincoln, but the Eyre Peninsula.

Tunarama 2027

The Tunarama Festival will soon be upon us, and if you visit the Tunarama Festival facebook page or website, you can register your interest in various activities.  At this time, expressions of interest are being called for organisations, businesses and individuals to ‘Join the Parade’ with various categories and prizes to be won.  You could also apply to be a Stallholder.  I encourage you to sign up for the Tunarama Festival mailing list, to stay informed on all the updates and get the latest news.

Volunteers

On behalf of Council, we express our gratitude to the many volunteers in our community.  If you are interested in volunteering, and perhaps looking for an opportunity to do so, the Library has a wall, devoted to information about the community groups looking for volunteers.  Council itself is also looking for those who may wish to greet Cruise Ship visitors to the city.  More information can be found on the Council website, or pop into the Library and join one of the many organisations looking for the valued gift, of your time.

As always, my door is open, and I look forward to being of service to you.

Diana Mislov
Mayor - City of Port Lincoln