Community

* Government says current $1.88 billion budget for Dunedin Hospital project is insufficient. * Ministers are considering reducing hospital scope or staging development to manage costs. * Key services like pathology lab and car parking were not included in initial cost estimates. The planned redevelopment of Dunedin Hospital could cost up to

Coopers Creek residents have had their licences to occupy the land for another 21 years, with a right of renewal for up to 35 years. It may not have ended decades of uncertainty for the 25+ residents at the Sandy Point village, but the Invercargill City Council wasn’t prepared

* Waituna Lagoon will be mechanically opened to prevent ecological damage and assist the community. * High water levels have been affecting local roads, paddocks, and farming activities for weeks. * Lagoon opening aims to flush nutrients and sediment, resetting the environment for summer. Environment Southland has decided to use its emergency powers

* Deaf and disabled communities demand Invercargill appoint a full-time sign language interpreter. * Lack of interpreter causes hardship, affecting hospital visits, events, and daily communication. * Recommendations include creating a disability portfolio and advocating for better inclusion policies. Invercargill’s deaf community is calling for the appointment of a full-time sign language

* Peacehaven Village raises $330,583 for dementia unit expansion in less than six months. * Six new dementia care beds will be added to meet community needs in Southland. * Only $55,417 remains to complete the $386,000 fundraising goal for the project. More psychogeriatric dementia beds are on the way

* ILT has returned more than $9 million to the Invercargill community this year. * The Group faced challenges due to labour shortages, inflation, and cost-of-living pressures. * Despite a tax-related deficit, ILT’s financial position remains solid with strong community support. ILT Group held its Annual General Meeting on 16th September, revealing

* Central Government raises parking infringement fees, with some fines increasing by 70 percent. * Incorrect use of mobility parks now incurs a steep penalty of $750 without a valid permit. * Invercargill City Council reminds drivers to park mindfully and activate parking machines. Invercargill City Council is encouraging residents to be more

* Bluff's Blue September Market aims to raise funds for Prostate Cancer awareness and support. * Stallholders will contribute to a raffle, with the prize drawn by Bluff’s Town Crier. * The covered market ensures comfort for visitors, regardless of weather conditions. Bluff’s Thieves Alley Market will be painted